Scope

Industrial mechanics (millwrights) work on industrial machinery and mechanical equipment. This equipment may include mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, fuel, lubrication, cooling and exhaust systems and equipment. Some components worked on include pumps, fans, tanks, conveyors, presses, generators, and pneumatic and hydraulic controls.

Industrial mechanics (millwrights) are responsible for assembling, installing, aligning, maintaining, repairing, troubleshooting, inspecting, dismantling and moving this machinery and equipment. Troubleshooting may include diagnosing irregularities and malfunctions, making adjustments, and repairing or replacing parts. Cleaning, adjusting and lubricating machinery are also important maintenance tasks of the trade.

Other tasks that are performed in this trade may include welding, cutting and machining as required. Industrial mechanics (millwrights) may prepare bases for equipment.

Blueprints, diagrams, schematic drawings and manuals assist industrial mechanics (millwrights) in determining work procedures.

Industrial mechanics (millwrights) work with a wide variety of tools. They may use hand and power tools in installation and repair work. Larger machine tools such as lathes, drill presses and grinders may be used in fabrication of machine parts. Hoisting and lifting equipment such as cranes, jacks and forklifts is commonly used to position large machines or machine parts.

Industrial mechanics (millwrights) are employed in industrial maintenance or construction sectors. Millwrights employed in the construction industry are generally engaged in the initial installation of machinery and equipment. Those working in the industrial sector are employed in manufacturing or processing plants, utilities or other industrial establishments and are involved with the installation, maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment. Industrial mechanics can also be employed in light industry sectors such as grain/wheat handling.

The work environment for industrial mechanics (millwrights) is varied and may involve working in extreme or adverse conditions. They may work in confined spaces, at heights, with heavy equipment and around moving machinery. The work often requires considerable standing, kneeling and lifting of heavy materials.

Key skills for people in this trade are mechanical aptitude, problem-solving, communication, job planning and organizing and the ability to use trade-related calculations. They have the ability to detect malfunctions though sensory tests which are often confirmed by technical tests. Other important attributes include good coordination, manual dexterity and the ability to visualize a layout in 3 dimensions.

Industrial mechanics (millwrights) often possess overlapping skills with other trades such as steamfitter/pipefitter, industrial instrument mechanic, welder, machinist or industrial electrician. They may be certified in these other trades as well. Industrial mechanics (millwrights) may work in specialized areas of the trade such as fluid analysis, vibration analysis and laser alignment. With experience, they may advance to other positions such as mentor, supervisor, planner, superintendent or trainer.

Observations

Newer, more sophisticated equipment will require a higher level of skill of industrial mechanics (millwrights) and they will need to keep pace with these changes. For example, some machines allow for self-diagnosis and predictive maintenance. There is a higher emphasis on in-house training when new machines and equipment are acquired.

There is a wider variety of materials available for use in the construction of machinery and components, such as new alloys and advanced plastics. More types of sealant materials are available to the industrial mechanic (millwright).

Preventative and predictive maintenance planning is seen as more important and scheduled shutdowns are more prevalent.

Some hand and power tools are more ergonomically designed to prevent repetitive strain injuries. Many power tools are now cordless and of light weight design. There is also a much greater usage of mobile equipment such as forklifts, scissor lifts, aerial lifts and lift trucks in the trade.

Diagnostic equipment and tools such as computerized laser alignment equipment and vibration analyzers are becoming more technically advanced. Acoustic monitoring technology is advancing rapidly. Borescopes are increasingly used to view and troubleshoot internal components. There is advanced diagnostic equipment for fluid power inspection such as handheld analysers and clamp-on flowmeters.

Personal protective equipment is becoming more user-friendly resulting in increased usage among tradespersons. Improved identification of hazardous materials through increased use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) contributes to a safer work environment. Safety is becoming a higher priority in the workplace due to increased awareness of hazards.

Safety

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention, and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers and employees. It is imperative that all parties become aware of circumstances that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and work environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is generally recognized that safety-conscious attitudes and work practices contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free work environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Acts and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulations. As well, it is essential to determine workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public and the environment.

Safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions. As safety is an imperative part of all trades, it is assumed and therefore it is not included as a qualifier of any activities. However, the technical safety tasks and sub-tasks specific to the trade are included in this analysis.

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