Apprenticeship Coordinator George Hill

Applications for the Heat & Frost Insulators Local 27, can be filled out Monday - Friday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm at 400 South Main, Independence, Missouri. Applicants must bring birth certificate and High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Insulation workers install many different types of insulating materials for basically five purposes: to prevent heat transfer, to conserve energy, to retard freezing, to protect personnel from burns and to increase operational efficiency and reduce fuel costs. Properly insulated buildings reduce energy consumption by keeping heat in during the winter and out in the summer. Insulating is performed in virtually every type of residential and commercial building in the country, as well as industrial plants, chemical factories, nuclear power plants, and military and space facilities. Insulation mechanics select and install the proper material for each and every type of insulation application. Insulation is installed using a variety of techniques-stapling, wiring, pasting or spraying depending on the type of surface to which the insulating material is being applied. For example, in order to insulate a steam pipe, a tube of insulation must be measured and cut to the required length, stretched open along the cut that runs the length of the tube, and slipped over the pipe. The insulation is then secured by stapling, taping, or wrapping and fastening wired bands around it. A protective sealant, finish or cover is then applied over the outside of the insulating material to help protect it. Basic insulating materials can include fiberglass, mineral wool, ceramic fiber, cellular glass, cellular foam, polyethylene, polystyrene, calcium silicate, perlite and insulating cements. Protective coverings include coatings of cement or mastics, reinforced paper, tar paper, canvass cloth, plastic, laminates and metals.

The apprenticeship program emphasizes on -the-job training and classroom instruction, as well as the use of textbooks and other course materials that give participants a thorough knowledge of the trade. Apprentices are employed by an insulation contractor who pays an appropriate wage benefit package. Apprentices work side by side with a qualified mechanic on job sites. When apprentices are not at the job site, they are attending classes taught by highly qualified instructors chosen for their knowledge and expertise. Upon completion of apprenticeship, apprentices are required to take an examination to demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills. This is the apprenticeship experience - practical, "hands-on" learning, backed up by excellent classroom instruction and course materials. Apprentices earn while they learn, placing them on an immediate path toward economic security and stability.

Insulation workers often work in places that have materials which contain asbestos. In those instances, the workers must be trained and certified in the removal of asbestos. This training is required by both Federal and State laws. Workers are trained in the proper use, handling, and disposal of the asbestos containing materials as well as the use of protective clothing and respiratory protection. Insulator instructors attend annual training conferences where they are taught the latest technologies within the industry. Classes are then provided for the Local Union's members to stay abreast of the constant changes within the industry.

Asbestos Workers apply insulation to pipes, tanks, vessels, boilers, sheet metal ductwork, etc., primarily in the commercial and industrial fields. Basic materials used are fiberglass, calcium silicate, plastics, urethane, and sheet metal. Work requires skill in the use of knife and nippers, scissors, saws, metal shears, powers tools and other tools in applying and finishing the above insulation products.