Scope

Ironworkers (generalists) work with both structural/ornamental and reinforcing steel materials. They install structural/ornamental steel components, precast concrete members and glued laminated timber products (glulam) and place reinforcing steel in commercial, industrial, institutional and large residential buildings, towers, bridges and stadiums. They erect pre-engineered buildings and ornamental ironwork such as curtain walls, metal stairways, catwalks, railings and metal doors.

Ironworkers (generalists) cut, bend, lay out and place reinforcing steel rods, welded wire fabric and composite materials in a wide variety of poured concrete products and structures such as buildings, highways, bridges, stadiums and towers. While reinforcing material is usually pre-cut and fabricated off-site, ironworkers (generalists) may be called upon to cut and bend them according to design specifications and drawings. They may pre-assemble reinforcing material by laying it out and connecting sub-assemblies on the ground prior to final placement. They position, align and secure components according to drawings, using a variety of methods. They also place and stress various post-tensioning systems in structures such as parking garages, bridges and stadiums where longer unsupported spans are required. After placing post-tensioning systems, they stress the tendons to predetermined specifications using hydraulic jacks and pumps.

Ironworkers (generalists) prepare the site by assembling the hoisting equipment and erecting scaffolding, cranes, hoists and derricks on the construction site. They unload structural, ornamental, reinforcing materials and organize the material for installation. They connect cables and slings to the components and direct crane operators in lifts. They position, align and secure components according to blueprints using a variety of fastening methods. They also install conveyors, machinery and automated material handling systems. They are also involved in demolition and salvage duties involving all types of construction.

Ironworkers (generalists) generally work outside in all weather, although some work indoors in manufacturing plants or underground work sites. Work sites may be in a variety of locations ranging from remote areas where they could be working on dams, bridges or mining projects to urban environments where they could work on high-rise buildings, parking garages, transit systems, tunnels or stadiums.

The work often requires considerable standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling and reaching, and is often conducted in cramped, confined spaces or at heights. Hazards include injury from electrocution, falls or falling objects. Inclement weather may shut down projects for extended periods and deadlines and priorities may involve overtime.

Ironworkers (generalists) are required to have good mechanical aptitude, the ability to visualize finished products in three dimensions, the ability to maintain balance working at heights in varying extreme climates. A thorough knowledge of the principles of lifting and hoisting is required as is a familiarity with a variety of metal fastening and joining methods. They are also required to be competent in the use and care of a variety of hand and power tools and equipment such as tying tools, pry bars, jacks, torches, cut-off saws, hydraulic benders, shears, welding equipment, stressing equipment and cranes. They also use crane charts and must be able to estimate and reconcile crane ability with load sizes.

Because of the nature of the work ironworkers (generalists) must be thoroughly familiar with the applicable sections of local, provincial and federal building and safety standards.

Ironworkers (generalists) tend to work in teams and with other tradespeople and team coordination is a large component of the occupation especially when hoisting and placing large, heavy components high above the ground.

Observations

Technology continues to contribute to many changes in equipment design and construction materials. These innovations require constantly changing methods and techniques governed by appropriate attitudes towards the current high standards for fabrication, erection and installation of structural and ornamental components. Maintaining updated knowledge of these changes presents a daily challenge to the people of this trade.

The work of an ironworker (generalist), by its nature, possesses inherent hazards. Safe work procedures, best practices and job hazard analysis assist in controlling or eliminating hazards. However, errors in judgment or in practical application of trade knowledge can be costly, both in terms of injury to workers and damage to equipment or materials. Workers must maintain constant attention to the application of safety and accident prevention at all times.

Personal protective equipment such as fall arrest equipment, aerial work platforms, breathing apparatus and fume extraction equipment have become an integral part of all worksites and places of employment.

Ironworkers (generalists) are increasingly being called on to document and maintain records due to more stringent laws and regulations. The end products in industrial and other applications must be appropriately installed, inspected and documented. This places more responsibility on supervisors, quality control personnel and the individuals who perform the installation and assembly of components. The tremendous variety in equipment and methods means that the ironworker (generalist) must be more knowledgeable and adaptable than ever before.

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 are aware of circumstances and conditions that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

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

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Acts and Workplace Hazardous Material 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.

As safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions, personal safety practices are not recorded in this document. However, the technical safety aspect relating to each task and sub-task are included throughout this analysis.

Job Titles