Insulators

Nature of work

Insulators (heat and frost) install insulating materials in commercial and industrial structures and remove existing insulating materials like asbestos. They work for construction companies and insulation contractors, or they may be self-employed.

Job duties

Insulators:

• Read and interpret drawings and specifications to determine insulation requirements and select type of insulation required.
• Measure and cut insulating material to required dimensions using hand and power tools.
• Apply and secure insulation using spraying, blowing, pasting, strapping, taping and other application and installation methods.
• Fit insulation around obstructions and between studs and joists.
• Install vapour barriers.
• Apply waterproofing cement over insulating materials to finish surfaces.
• Remove asbestos or urea-formaldehyde insulation from buildings when required.

Sample job titles

• apprentice insulator
• boiler and pipe insulator
• fibreglass insulation installer
• insulation installer
• insulation mechanic
• insulator
• refrigeration and air conditioning equipment insulator
• soundproof material installer

Skills

• Precision
• Manual dexterity
• Strength and stamina
• Agility to work in cramped spaces
• Comfort with heights and working in hot and cold environments
• Ability to work alone or as part of a team

Job requirements

• High school or equivalent (usually).
• Training through a 7,200-hour apprenticeship program with four apprenticeship levels: to become an apprentice you first need to have a job - enter an apprenticeship agreement either directly through an employer or after graduating from a college-level pre-apprenticeship program; learn on the job, mentored by a certified journeyperson who signs off on skills in a logbook.
• Trade Qualifier option, 10,800 hours, and other criteria.
• Certification for insulators (heat and frost) is voluntary in Nova Scotia.
• Write and score a minimum of 70% on the Red Seal exam for insulators (heat and frost).
• Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) allows for interprovincial mobility.

Other considerations

• Insulators can work indoors and outdoors, often in extreme temperatures. They may work in confined spaces, on ladders or scaffolding, or with itchy or toxic materials. They may be required to travel. Lifting and moving heavy items is often required.
• Their work schedules depend on the type of work they are doing, ranging from regular work weeks, to shift work or irregular work hours. Schedules may depend on the availability of contracts, or inconvenience or health risks to adjacent workers or the public.
• Removing old insulating materials like asbestos, ceramic fibers, lead, and mold is also part of the trade. Special training and licenses may be required to deal with these types of materials.
• Spraying insulating materials and installing fireproofing and fire stop systems are also specialized parts of the trade.
• Risks include falls from working at heights, injuries from power tools and exposure to toxic materials Tradespeople observe safety precautions and use equipment like respirators, coveralls, and safety glasses or goggles.
• Apprentices usually earn a percentage of the journeyperson (fully qualified) rate. This percentage increases as each level of the apprenticeship program are completed.
• Jobs in the construction industry are affected by seasonal changes and economic conditions. Work may be on a project basis. Workers should be prepared for periods of unemployment.
• Experienced insulators may act as mentors and trainers to apprentices in the trade. They can also move into positions like maintenance, instructor, contractor, foreperson, superintendent, or estimator.

Regulations

Contacts