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

HUMAN RESOURCES IN CANADA’S BUILT HERITAGE SECTORHVACOverview of Occupation:• Note: see earlier description for Sheet Metal Workers.• HVAC installation is typically undertaken by sheet metal workers. In some jurisdictions, HVAC isalso undertaken by refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics.• HVAC installation involves custom fitting of ventilation and air movement systems using sheet metalproducts and connecting these distribution systems to mechanical sources. In larger structures,HVAC installers also test and balance air movement and install controlling devices.• HVAC installers may hold certifications from the Canada Welding Board.Training and Education:• For sheet metal workers: completion of an apprenticeship ranging from 5700 hours to 9000 hours.In-school training ranges from 23 weeks to 40 weeks.• For refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics: completion of an apprenticeship ranging from7200 hours to 9000 hours. In-school training ranges from 20 weeks to 32 weeks.• In most provinces, training is delivered through colleges. In B.C, there is a union-based training centre.Upgrade training is often delivered by union locals.Occupational or Professional Regulation:• Both trades are compulsory in 5 provinces and voluntary in the remaining provinces.• Both trades are red seal designated.Key Skills unique to the Built Heritage Sector:• Ability to install or upgrade HVAC systems in a manner consistent with the aesthetics of a heritage structure.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:• Sheet Metal Workers International Association• United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industryof the United States and Canada (UA)• Quebec Federation of Labour (Quebec only)• Sheet metal employers are represented by various sheet metal provincial associations. Specialized HVACcontractors may be represented by sheet metal employer associations or by mechanical contractorsassociations.• There is national sheet metal human resource committee which identifies skill gaps in the trade.NOC:• 7261 Sheet Metal Workers• 7313 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning MechanicPotential Issues:• There is no specialized training related to installing HVAC systems in heritage structures that arebeing modernized for contemporary uses.112©CULTURAL HUMAN RESOURCES COUNCIL