Description

Insulators apply insulation materials to plumbing, air-handling, heating, cooling and refrigeration systems, piping equipment and pressure vessels, and walls, floors and ceilings of buildings and other structures, to prevent or reduce the passage of heat, cold, sound or fire. They are employed by construction companies and insulation contractors, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

Job Titles

• Boiler and pipe insulator
• Building insulator
• Firestopping insulator
• Heat and frost insulator
• Insulation applicator
• Insulation mechanic
• Insulator
• Insulator apprentice
• Sound insulator

Main Duties

• 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.

Workplaces

• Construction companies
• Insulation contractors
• Self-employed

Skills

• Quality Control Testing
• Setting Up
• Coordinating
• Decision Making
• Equipment and Tool Selection

Abilities

• Body Flexibility
• Gross Body Coordination
• Stamina
• Trunk Strength
• Arm-Hand Steadiness

Personal Attributes

• Adaptability
• Attention to Detail
• Collaboration
• Independence
• Stress Tolerance

Source: OaSIS