CHICAGO — An industry program to independently certify that cold-formed steel connectors meet manufacturing quality standards has been approved by the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA).

Companies that participate in the Manufacturing Compliance Certification Program will agree to comply with requirements that govern the measures taken to prevent corrosion, the materials used and other aspects of the production process, according to a release Thursday from the Falls Church, Va.-based group.

Connectors tend to be galvanized steel straps, ties or angles used to hold structural elements of a building together, SFIA said. They play a crucial role in the design of modern buildings and help ensure that buildings can stand up to high winds and earthquakes.

Selection is now under way for a third-party administrator who will audit manufacturing facilities twice a year to ensure standards are being met, according to the release. Audits are expected to begin in July 2013.

Connector producers can now apply for the program. The SFIA has made participation in the program a membership requirement.