The repair, construction, assembly and outfitting of boilers— were all in a day’s work for a boilermaker. Responsible for fixing gaskets, installing, testing and inspecting boilers for safety, their work can often be dangerous and involve intensive labor. Due to the longevity of boilers—with average life spans of over 50 years—boilermakers are responsible for their constant repair and maintenance. It is especially important that the boilermakers of today take extra caution when repairing old boilers, as the possibility of coming into contact with asbestos insulation still exists.
Prior to the 1980s, the work of a boiler man would often involve exposure to asbestos fibers. The use of asbestos as an insulator was especially prevalent in boilers due to its exceptional fire-resistant properties. When disturbed during maintenance, airborne particles of asbestos would become friable and expose workers to the hazard of inhalation of this dangerous dust.
Mr. C’s story
Whether your heat went out, your morning shower was cold, or you swore you heard a clunking sound, the boilermaker was there to fix these common woes. One such boilermaker was Mr. C, who worked in the late 1960s and 1970s in the Chicago area. His work dispatched him to facilities such as hospitals, schools, the local fast food joints, large office buildings, and private homes. He belonged to his local union pipefitters association and worked in a variety of jobs that took him all over Chicago and the suburbs. His jobs would last as long as it took to get the heat going again. He often worked long hours in confined basem*nt settings with poor ventilation.
His exposure to asbestos occurred during the daily repairs to the boilers when their insulation jackets were removed, flange gaskets needed repair, or control parts were replaced. These parts were often coated in asbestos insulation. Further, he often would use an asbestos rope to fit between the seams of the boiler. The crushing or disturbance of this insulation would cause the fibers to become airborne, and easily inhalable.
Asbestos was also often used to insulate heat exchangers, tanks, or water heaters. Not having been warned about the dangers of asbestos, Mr. C often wore no protection and breathed in the asbestos particles as they were released into the air. Sadly today, due to his long exposure to asbestos as a boiler man, Mr. C now suffers from asbestosis—a serious condition that scars the lung tissues and makes breathing difficult.
As a result of his asbestos injuries, Mr. C sought the legal counsel of Cooney & Conway to represent his interests against the companies that left him exposed. If you or a loved one were a boilermaker and were diagnosed with an asbestos related disease, it is highly important that you speak with an experienced attorney to discuss your legal remedy.
FAQs
The self-assessment on the next pages shows the Tasks and Sub-tasks within each Major Work Activity and the number of questions assigned to each Major Work Activity and Task. The Red Seal Exam for this trade has 120 questions.
What does a boilermaker do responses? ›
Boilermakers install and maintain boiler systems. Boilermakers assemble, install, maintain, and repair boilers, closed vats, and other large vessels or containers that hold liquids and gases.
What questions are asked at a boilermaker interview? ›
9 general boilermaker interview questions
- What got you interested in the boilermaker position?
- What's the biggest challenge that the boilermaker profession faces today, and how can you overcome it?
- Can you describe some of the best techniques for fabricating steel into a boiler?
The most challenging part of being a boilermaker is working in high places and around high-pressure steam lines. It is important for the interviewer to know if the candidate is comfortable with these conditions and if they have the necessary safety training.
Do boilermakers use math? ›
Actually, there is quite a bit of math, in designing and building boilers. Most of it is not too difficult.
What is the aptitude test for boilermakers? ›
The Blue-Collar Test for Boiler Makers covers a range of skills that are fundamental to the role. These include blueprint reading, welding and fabrication skills, knowledge of boiler systems and components, mechanical aptitude, and adherence to safety protocols.
Is boilermaker a hard job? ›
Boilers, tanks, and vats that boilermakers work with are used to hold liquid and gas at high temperatures and under extremely high pressure. So, the boilermaker jobs are highly skilled, physically demanding, require quick decision making, and may involve working in hazardous environments.
How long does it take to be a Boilermaker? ›
After finishing boilermaker courses and four years as an apprentice, one can begin a career as a boiler making operator in sectors like: Construction industry. Industrial plants. Power plants and refineries.
What skills are needed to be a Boilermaker? ›
Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
What is the hardest interview question to answer? ›
The seven most difficult interview questions
- Where do you see yourself in five years? ...
- What are your weaknesses? ...
- Tell me about yourself. ...
- Why are you the best person for the job? ...
- Why do you want the job? ...
- Why are you looking for a new job? ...
- What is your salary expectation?
Provide a Brief Highlight-Summary of Your Experience
The best way to answer "Tell me about yourself" is with a brief highlight-summary of your experience, your education, the value you bring to an employer, and the reason you're looking forward to learning more about this next job and the opportunity to work with them.
What makes a good Boilermaker? ›
A classic bourbon or rye whiskey works well with a light lager, while bold Irish whiskeys enjoy the extra flavor of an IPA. Whiskey in general is the classic choice when drinking Boilermakers, but many bars serve a lineup of different beer-and-shot pairings.
Why should we hire you? ›
Not only do I possess technical proficiency in (mention relevant skills), but I also excel in (mention soft skills or other strengths). My ability to (provide example of a unique skill or experience) sets me apart from other candidates and allows me to approach challenges from a fresh perspective.
Why do you want this job sample answer? ›
'I want this job because I have clear skills that will help me achieve...' 'This role will give me the opportunity to combine both my skills in [skill 1] and [skill 2] to achieve...' 'I love [job role specific task] and my last job took me away from that.
How long does it take to do a boilermaker? ›
To become a Boilermaker you typically need to complete an apprenticeship. This usually takes three to four years. 1. Complete a Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade (MEM30319) as part of an apprenticeship.
Is boilermaking hard work? ›
The size of materials, tools, and equipment handled by boilermakers require excellent physical strength and stamina. Boilermakers are highly skilled workers and receive excellent wages and benefits for their hard work. We Build, Repair, and Maintain all types of: Boilers.
How many questions is the Nccer test? ›
Total Number of Questions: 50
The NCCER curriculum may be ordered from Pearson Publishing (800.922.
What are Boilermaker requirements? ›
These professionals must prove exceptional manufacturing skills, troubleshooting abilities and electrical engineering knowledge. To work as a boilermaker, one must have a Matric Grade 9 certificate confirming the completion of the studies period.
