While metric receives mixed initial review, many
tradespeople prefer it after some learning period.
In this edition, we have focused primarily on hard metric
products commonly used in construction.
We have also encountered metric capability where we
did not expect it.
For a listing of firms that can fabricate or install these
products, ie, construction firms that feel comfortable
We must conclude that original estimates of extensive
working in metric, see M1.
effort to convert did not materialize.
Products listed are made in USA, unless noted.
When partnering between government and private
industry is meaningfully applied, conversion to metric,
This directory is open to firms making metric products
and realization of the benefits of this system, are no more
commonly used in federal construction.
difficult than the introduction of any new technology or
policy.
Firms interested in being included may contact us.
Some firms listed minimum orders for products. These
minimums will get smaller as we constantly buy metric
As the Federal landlord, we have frequent contact with
products. If your order is half the minimum listed or
many federal, state and municipal agencies.
more, we recommend you contact the manufacturer to
determine their current interest.
Another document, M1, was developed to keep abreast
of their metric conversion activities.
We have deleted some product categories where
obtaining metric products has not been a problem, and
Title: M1, Metric Activity in US Construction
have given overall guidance to assist specifiers.
M1 is separate because metric projects and activities
within government are changing rapidly, needing more
frequent revision than design information.
America recently regained its status as the world's
largest exporter, and our firms are improving market
M1 will be updated every few months.
share for many products.
M1 can be downloaded by interested parties from the
Momentum is building in the American industrial
Region 3 Bulletin Board Service: 215 656 6465
machine, and an important component is use of SI.
Over the past year, we have spoken with thousands of
All regional specifications will soon be upgraded to
manufacturers, designers, project managers, personnel in
conform to this document.
education, and representatives of construction firms.
The mood of the nation has shifted. There is a significant
We welcome comments on this text.
and growing body of people that realize that metric is a
smart move for this country, and these individuals
Otto Schick
Tel 215 656 5822
Fax 215 656 5822
support the movement toward this system.
There is ofcourse resistance.
GSA
The American construction community specifically
100 Penn Square East, Room 610
though has responded to the challenge. We now track
Philadelphia PA 19107
which contractors have done metric construction, which
can build in metric with little difficulty, and which firms
have already bid metric projects in this country. These
results will appear regularly in M1.
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