Job description Pipefitter in the Vancouver Island and Coast Region
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Find out what work is like for a pipefitter in Canada. This work description is applicable to all Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers (NOC 72301).

Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers

Description

Steamfitters and pipefitters lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain, troubleshoot and repair piping systems carrying water, steam, chemicals and fuel in heating, cooling, lubricating and other process piping systems. Sprinkler system installers fabricate, install, test, maintain and repair water, foam, carbon dioxide and dry chemical sprinkler systems in buildings for fire protection purposes. Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers are employed in maintenance departments of factories, plants and similar establishments, and by pipefitting and sprinkler system contractors, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

Job duties

Here are some of the main activities and tasks that Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers have to perform, and some of the physical demands they involve:

  • Steamfitters and pipefitters
  • Read and interpret drawings, blueprints and specifications to determine layout requirements
  • Cut openings for pipe in walls, floors and ceilings using hand or power tools or machines
  • Select type and size of pipe required
  • Measure, cut, thread and bend pipe to required shape using hand and power tools
  • Weld, braze, cement, solder and thread joints to join pipes and fabricate sections of piping system
  • Install supports, valves, piping and control systems
  • Test system for leaks using testing equipment
  • Clean and maintain pipe units and fittings and flush system
  • Remove and replace worn components and reactivate system
  • May prepare cost estimates for clients.
  • Sprinkler system installers
  • Read and interpret drawings, specifications and fire codes to determine layout requirements
  • Install clamps, brackets and hangers to support piping system and sprinkler and fire protection equipment, using hand and power tools
  • Select, measure, cut, ream and thread pipe, install sprinkler heads and mount prepared pipe in supports
  • Join pipes and piping sections using soldering and welding equipment
  • Connect piping system to water mains, supply tanks, pumps, compressors and control equipment
  • Installs valves, alarms and associated equipment
  • Test system for leaks using air or liquid pressure equipment
  • Service and repair sprinkler system
  • May prepare cost estimates for clients.

Physical demands

Physical demands are the physical activities that the job requires the worker to do. Physical demands are selected according to the likeliness that workers will have to perform them for at least half of the time they spend at work.

Work environment

The work environment refers to the physical setting in which people work. The characteristics and conditions of the work environment are selected according to the likeliness that workers will be exposed to them at least once a week.

Physical proximity from others

Physical proximity from others refers to the physical distance between individuals in the workplace. The likeliness that the job requires to perform tasks while being physically close to other people is rated on a scale with 3 levels: "Somewhat close", "Close" and "Very close".

Related job titles

Here are some other related job titles that are found in the same occupational category (NOC 72301), and a list of similar occupations:

  • apprentice pipefitter-steamfitter
  • fire protection mechanic
  • fire sprinkler fitter
  • marine pipefitter
  • pipefitter
  • sprinkler system fitter
  • sprinkler system installer
  • steamfitter
  • steamfitter-pipefitter

Similar occupations Help - Similar occupations

Similar occupations

This section lists other occupations that are part of the same broad occupational category as Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers in the National Occupational Classification (NOC). These occupations involve similar core qualifications but involve different responsibilities. To see more similar occupations, use the Job Transition Tool.

Sources Occupational and Skills Information System & National Occupational Classification

Labour Market Information Survey
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