Scope

Oil burner mechanics install, repair and maintain all types of oil-fired domestic and commercial appliances, equipment, components and systems. On new installations, they may design, assemble and install the heating and ventilation systems, install oil burner components such as control devices and associated wiring, install fuel supply systems and connect the plumbing to mechanical and electrical systems. They may also install, maintain and repair wood/oil heating systems.

Oil burner mechanics work in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. They may be self-employed or employed by heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) installation and service companies.

Service calls and emergency calls may take place anytime: days, evenings or weekends. Full time and seasonal employment opportunities are available.

Oil burner mechanics must have good mechanical aptitude, problem solving skills and good customer relations skills. A good understanding of basic electrical/electronic theory and The House as a System is also required. They may give cost estimates for required work and explain the operation and maintenance of appliances and systems.

This analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics, gasfitters, plumbers and sheet metal workers.

Experienced oil burner mechanics may advance into supervisory and management positions or move into self-employment.

Observations

Oil burner mechanics must continually upgrade their skills to become proficient with new products and equipment introduced into the industry. Testing efficiencies are more easily realized with the introduction of computerized sensors, electronic and digital controls.

Technological changes and stringent new regulations have forced oil burner mechanics to upgrade their skills and constantly apprise themselves regarding environmental legislation. The increasingly complex and stringent environmental laws, especially regarding oil storage units, are having a major impact on the occupation. The mechanic must recognize potential hazards and react to dangerous situations. The skill of containment is becoming more critical and environmental incident reporting procedures are evolving areas for the mechanic.

Retrofitting existing equipment in an efficient and less expensive manner is becoming a more significant job task. Customers continue to ask the oil burner mechanic for more input and advice on choosing a highly efficient and cost effective system.

A move to alternative fuel sources continues to make a major impact on the oil burner mechanic trade. The mechanic must access specialized training in order to become proficient in the delivery, storage, distribution and combustion of such fuels with specific emphasis on safe handling and system operation.

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. All tasks are to be performed in accordance with manufacturers’ installation and maintenance guidelines as well as the current installation code for oil burning equipment.

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