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.

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

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Sources Occupational and Skills Information System & National Occupational Classification

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