Insulation Worker / Mechanical

Apply insulating materials to pipes or ductwork, or other mechanical systems in order to help control and maintain temperature.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Commercial Insulator; Heat and Frost Insulator; Industrial Insulator; Insulation Installer; Insulation Mechanic; Insulation Worker; Insulator; Insulator Journeyman; Mechanic Insulator; Mechanical Insulator

Tasks

• Measure and cut insulation for covering surfaces, using tape measures, handsaws, knives, and scissors.
• Apply, remove, and repair insulation on industrial equipment, pipes, ductwork, or other mechanical systems such as heat exchangers, tanks, and vessels, to help control noise and maintain temperatures.
• Select appropriate insulation, such as fiberglass, Styrofoam, or cork, based on the heat retaining or excluding characteristics of the material.
• Fit insulation around obstructions, and shape insulating materials and protective coverings as required.
• Determine the amounts and types of insulation needed, and methods of installation, based on factors such as location, surface shape, and equipment use.
• Cover, seal, or finish insulated surfaces or access holes with plastic covers, canvas strips, sealants, tape, cement, or asphalt mastic.
• Install sheet metal around insulated pipes with screws to protect the insulation from weather conditions or physical damage.
• Read blueprints and specifications to determine job requirements.
• Prepare surfaces for insulation application by brushing or spreading on adhesives, cement, or asphalt, or by attaching metal pins to surfaces.

Knowledge

• Building and Construction
• Customer and Personal Service
• Mechanical
• Administration and Management
• Education and Training
• Mathematics
• Production and Processing
• Public Safety and Security
• English Language
• Design
• Sales and Marketing
• Personnel and Human Resources
• Transportation

Skills

• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring

Abilities

• Trunk Strength
• Problem Sensitivity
• Extent Flexibility
• Oral Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Information Ordering
• Selective Attention
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Multilimb Coordination
• Static Strength
• Gross Body Equilibrium
• Near Vision
• Deductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Finger Dexterity
• Gross Body Coordination