Work Description
Properly insulated buildings reduce energy consumption by keeping heat in during the winter and out in the summer. Refrigerated storage rooms, vats, tanks, vessels, boilers, and steam and hot water pipes also are insulated to prevent the wasteful transfer of heat. Insulation workers install this insulating material. Insulation workers cement, staple, wire, tape or spray insulation. They insulate hot and cold piping, refrigerant lines, duct work, boilers, tanks, large power plants, brine lines and cooler rooms.
Working Conditions
Insulation workers generally work indoors. They spend most of the workday on their feet, either standing, bending or kneeling. Sometimes, they work from ladders or in tight spaces. The work is not strenuous and requires more coordination than strength. Insulation work is often dusty and dirty. The minute particles from insulation materials, especially when blown, can irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory system. Removing cancer-causing asbestos insulation is a hazardous task and is done by specially trained workers. To protect themselves from the dangers of asbestos and irritants, workers follow strict safety guidelines, take decontamination showers, keep work areas well ventilated and wear protective suits, masks and respirators.
Training
Class work includes blueprint reading, safety, and the study of heat and sound conduction.
Four year training program
5,840 hours on-the-job training
400 hours paid related instruction
Additional related instruction may be required
Application
View application requirements below:
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
High school diploma or equivalent
Meet required norms on aptitude test (if required)
Physically able to perform trade work