One of the most effective tools available to component manufacturers to inform installers and framers of the potential hazards associated with the installation of structural building components is the Component Warning Notice (CWN). Developed by the SBCA, the CWN has emerged as an industry best practice for communicating critical safety information in the field.
At its core, the CWN is a simple, consistent set of guidance designed to accompany structural building components to the jobsite. The CWN is comprised of three tools: the CWN Sheet, the CWN Tag, and the CWN Website.
- Component Warning Notice Tag is intended for application on every truss and component sent to a jobsite. Having a tag on every truss provides an opportunity for the CWN to be seen by all installers on the jobsite. The CWN Tag has detailed graphics and specific warning language and colors as stipulated in ANSI Z535, in addition to a QR code to the CWN Website.
- Component Warning Notice Sheet is now included in SBCA Standard Jobsite Packages in addition to being available for purchase on their own. The Component Warning Notice Sheet is comprised of safety information, specific warning language and colors as stipulated in ANSI Z535, and a QR Code to the CWN Website.
- Component Warning Notice Website is a live version of the CWN at www.componentwarningnotice.com. This website will consist of the most up to date version of the CWN, allowing for improvement through the implementation process of this series of tools.
These three tools combined create a system for maximum awareness for anyone that comes in contact with structural building components, such as roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels.
Its purpose is straightforward: clearly identify potential hazards associated with handling and installing components such as roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels. While component manufacturers (CMs) already invest heavily in design accuracy and production quality, the reality is that hazards can arise during handling and installation, a process that is largely outside the CM’s direct control. The CWN helps bridge that gap.
One of the biggest advantages of adopting the CWN is its cost-efficiency. The Component Warning Notice has been seamlessly integrated into SBCA’s existing Jobsite Packages. It requires minimal additional effort to implement beyond using Jobsite Packages, and delivers significant value by helping to ensure that installers are consistently reminded of key safety considerations. Included alongside truss placement diagrams and other B-Series installation guidance, the CWN reinforces a culture of awareness without adding operational burden.
More importantly, the CWN helps align communication for the entire industry. Too often, safety instructions can vary from one manufacturer to another. By using a consistent, recognizable format, the CWN ensures that critical warnings are not overlooked by installers. This consistency benefits not only framers and installers but also builders, inspectors, and project managers who rely on clear, reliable information to keep projects moving safely and efficiently.
The CWN also strengthens the CM’s role in the construction process; CMs are well positioned at the intersection of design and field execution. They understand load paths, bracing requirements, and installation best practices in ways that others may not. The CWN provides a direct way to share that expertise where it matters most at the time that structural building components are being installed.
Just as important, affixing the CWN Tag to every truss and component demonstrates a proactive commitment to installer safety by putting guidance directly at their fingertips with the QR code. In an environment where jobsite safety is under increasing scrutiny, providing clear, documented hazard communication helps reduce misunderstandings and reinforces due diligence. The CWN Tag reinforces the manufacturer’s commitment to delivering a quality product while supporting the safety of those installing it.
Ultimately, the CWN is a practical and efficient solution that aligns with how CMs operate. It improves jobsite communication and supports safer installation practices without significant cost or disruption. For manufacturers looking to lead on safety through industry best practices, while delivering greater value to their customers, implementing the CWN is a good decision. Learn more at sbcacomponents.com/cwn.