Ironworkers (generalists) work with structural/ornamental and reinforcing steel materials. They install steel components, precast concrete members, place reinforcing steel in commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings, towers, bridges and stadiums, and install glued laminated timber products. They erect pre-engineered buildings and ornamental ironwork. They cut, bend, lay out and place reinforcing steel rods, welded wire fabric and composite materials in a poured concrete products and structures. They position, align and secure components, place post-tensioning systems in structures where longer unsupported spans are required, and 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. They connect cables and slings to the components and direct crane operators in lifts, and position, align and secure components. They install conveyors, machinery and automated material handling systems, and are involved in demolition and salvage duties.

Ironworkers (generalists) work outside, although some work indoors in manufacturing plants or underground work sites. Work sites range from remote areas such as dams, bridges or mining projects to urban environments such as high-rise buildings, parking garages, transit systems, tunnels or stadiums. The work requires standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling and reaching, and can be in cramped, confined spaces or at heights. Hazards include injury from electrocution, falls or falling objects. They are required to have good mechanical aptitude, the ability to visualize finished products in three dimensions, and the ability to maintain balance working at heights in varying extreme climates. A knowledge of the principles of lifting and hoisting, and a familiarity with metal fastening and joining methods is required, as is a competency in the use 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 use crane charts and must be able to estimate and reconcile crane ability with load sizes. Ironworkers (generalists) must be familiar with the applicable sections of local, provincial and federal building and safety standards. They tend to work in teams, and team coordination is a large component of the occupation especially when hoisting and placing large, heavy components high above the ground.

APPRENTICESHIP TERM: 3 years, 5400 hours (Plan of Training – 2016)
Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Pre-Employment (37 wks)	8 weeks	8 weeks
10 weeks**	8 weeks	8 weeks
Refer to the Pathways to Certification diagram.**