What is the temporary member attached to the side of a truss called to provide lateral support during initial lifting?

The temporary member attached to the side of a truss to provide lateral support during initial lifting is referred to as a strong back. A strong back is typically used to help stabilize the truss, preventing it from twisting or collapsing as it is lifted into position. This additional structure ensures that the truss maintains its shape and integrity as it is maneuvered, especially before permanent supports are in place.

When lifting large structures such as trusses, the forces acting on them can lead to instability. The strong back is specifically designed to counteract these forces, providing the necessary rigidity until the truss can be fully secured. This temporary measure is crucial in ensuring safety and structural performance during the lifting process.

The other terms—brace, support beam, and strut—refer to different types of supports or structural elements and do not specifically denote the temporary support used in this context. A brace is often used to provide additional support but is not the same as a strong back, which serves a specific purpose during lifting operations.