What Does a Heat and Frost Insulator Do?

A Heat and Frost Insulator applies insulation materials in order to prevent the transmission of heat, cold, sound and fire.

Learn about the business case for training apprentices in the insulation field

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

• using handing and power tools to apply insulating materials to plumbing, heating, air-handling, cooling and refrigeration systems, piping equipment, pressure vessels, walls, floors and ceilings of buildings
• handling and correctly using saws, caulking guns, metal working and metal cutting equipment
• reading and interpreting drawings and specifications
• applying and securing insulation using spraying, blowing, pasting, strapping and taping techniques
• observing and implementing personal and construction safety, including handling of hazardous materials such as lead, ceramic fibre wool, asbestos and flammable materials 
• using access equipment safely, such as ladders, scaffolds, swing stages, bosun chairs and elevated work platforms
• installing fire-retardant materials
• removing asbestos
• applying a variety of finishes such as plastic, metal and fabric
• working independently and as a member of a team to deadlines

To view the Essential Skills necessary to work in this occupation, click on the following link for Insulator, Heat & Frost, NOC code 7293:

http://www10.hrsdc.gc.ca/CE/English/ShowProfile.aspx?v=8

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

A Heat and Frost Insulator is a voluntary certified trade in the construction sector which means that it does not require a valid Certificate of Apprenticeship to work in the trade. However, apprenticeship training is recommended.

Grade 12 may be required by employers and unions, but grade 10 and a minimum of 16 years of age is the legal minimum requirement to be apprenticed in this trade. Completion of a 6400 hour apprenticeship (approx 4 years) will include a combination of on-the-job and in-school training.

The in-school component will include 3 seven week blocks of school for a total of 630 hours of school. School theory training will include trade-related math and science (such as heat transmission, cryogenics and the impact of temperature on materials), blueprint reading, drafting and health and safety.

What’s Your Future as a Heat and Frost Insulator?

Heat and Frost Insulators are employed in the construction sector. Heat and Frost Insulators could work in commercial buildings, ships, industrial plants and private residences. They may work indoors and outdoors and may be required to bend and stand for prolonged periods of time and to lift and carry heavy objects. They may be exposed to high levels of dust and potentially hazardous working materials and so often use masks and protective clothing which can be hot and uncomfortable.

Employment in this field is fair through to 2007 due to trends in housing, commercial and industrial construction. Also, due to the aging workforce, this field will experience significant retirements over the next few years. For additional information about this career, check out the construction sector website at: www.CareersInConstruction.ca.

Employers who hire Heat and Frost Insulators include:

• Construction contractors
• Insulation contractors

Wage Rate

• An Apprentice earns less than a Journeyperson, but as your skills and expertise improve, your wage increases
• fully qualified Heat and Frost Insulators earn an average of $22/hr with a high of $38/ hour

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as a Heat and Frost Insulator For You?

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as a Heat and Frost Insulator may be for You!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

• Asbestos Worker
• Sound Insulator
• Sprinkler and Fire Protection Installer

Apprenticeship News