Human Resources in Canada's Built Heritage Sector: Mapping the ...

MAPPING THE WORK FORCE AND SETTING STRATEGIC PRIORITIESIronworkersOverview of Occupation:• The ironworker trade weld structural steel components of a building or other civil structure (e.g.,bridges), and installs and welds other steel components such as railings and grilles.• Ironworkers also install and repair decorative ironwork.• Ironworkers typically hold various certifications from the Canada Welding Board.Training and Education:• Completion of an apprenticeship ranging from 4000 hours to 8000 hours. In-school training rangesfrom 10 weeks to 25 weeks.• In most provinces, training is delivered through colleges. Upgrade training, and in some instances,apprenticeship; training, is delivered by union locals.• The trade is certifiable in all provinces, but appenticable in only 8 provinces.Occupational or Professional Regulation:• The trade is voluntary in all provinces, except Quebec and Alberta where it is compulsory.• The trade is a red seal designated trade.Key Skills unique to the Built Heritage Sector:• Ability to install, repair and replicate decorative ironwork and decorated rails and grilles in a mannerthat does not draw attention to repaired or replicated work.Associations or Administrative Bodies concerned with Professional orOccupational Standards, Licensing or Certification:• Trade certification is provincially administered. Trade standards are overseen by provincial/tradeadvisory committees.• Unions:• International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Ironworkers• Quebec Federation of Labour (Quebec only)NOC:• 7264 IronworkersPotential Issues:• Many heritage structures utilized extensive decorative ironwork in grilles and railings. The ability torepair and replicate this work in an appropriate way can be key to preserving the aesthetic integrityof many heritage structures.©CULTURAL HUMAN RESOURCES COUNCIL101