No tolerance on hole or hole pattern location is specified in the AISC Code of Standard Practice.  The tolerance of ±1∕16 in. does not apply either to the maximum tolerance on hole location within a pattern of holes or to the position of intermediate connections. 

Neither the ±1∕16-in. tolerance, where applicable, on the overall length of members framed to other steel parts nor the 1∕16-in. clearance on size of standard holes should be construed as applicable to holes or hole patterns.

When intermediate stiffeners are spaced at a distance that is approximately equal to the girder depth, weld shrinkage up to 3∕8 in. in a 100-ft-long girder is not uncommon. Furthermore, thermal expansion or contraction in a like-length of girder due to a temperature differential of 50 °F can cause a change in length of approximately 3∕8 in. In view of these and other factors, there is a need for a tolerance on the location of longitudinal stiffeners. Because AWS D1.1/D1.1M Clause 7.22 is silent on this subject, AISC recommends the following criteria:

1. Intermediate stiffeners may deviate from their theoretical location ±2 in. as measured from the closest girder end.

2. Diaphragm and other connection stiffeners may deviate from their theoretical location by no more than twice the thickness of the stiffener.

3. Longitudinal stiffeners may deviate from their theoretical location by a distance equal to 1% of the girder depth.

4. If longitudinal stiffeners are interrupted by vertical stiffeners, the ends should not be offset by more than half the thickness of the longitudinal stiffeners.

AISC Specification Section M4.4 states: “Lack of contact bearing not exceeding a gap of 1∕16 in., regardless of the type of splice used (partial-joint-penetration groove welded or bolted), is permitted.” If the gap exceeds 1∕16 in. (2 mm), but is equal to or less than ¼ in. (6 mm), and if an engineering investigation shows that sufficient contact area does not exist, "the gap shall be packed with non-tapered steel shims."