What is a Reinforcing Ironworker?

What is a Reinforcing Ironworker?

Reinforcing ironworkers place and tie reinforcing material. They place and tie reinforcing steel, and post-tension tendons and related components to reinforce concrete structures.

In general, Ironworker – Reinforcing tradespeople:

• Read blueprints and specifications to lay out the work
• Unload materials so each piece can be accessed, re-located and/or hoisted as needed
• Erect and install construction cranes and other hoisting equipment
• Assemble rigging (cables, pulleys, hooks) to move materials
• Attach cables from a crane or derrick and direct crane operators with hand signals or radios
• Select, cut, bend, position, and secure steel bars or wire mesh in concrete forms to reinforce the concrete
• Perform post-tensioning

Successful Reinforcing Ironworkers enjoy developing their expertise by doing precise work in a broad range of industries and locations. They enjoy the outdoors and often like traveling and working with different crews.

To be successful in their trade, Reinforcing Ironworkers need:

• The ability to interpret blueprints/placing drawings and other specification documentation
• An understanding of safe work practices and the knowledge to safely operate the tools and equipment of the trade
• To be able to work at heights
• The ability to lift in excess of 25 kilograms
• Very good muscular coordination, agility and balance
• A willingness to travel to various work sites
• An inclination to work cooperatively with others
• The ability to act quickly and decisively in emergencies

Apprenticeship Training

The term of apprenticeship for a Reinforcing Ironworker is 2 years (two 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1500 hours of on-the-job training and 6 weeks of technical training for each period.
Minimum requirements are, a pass mark in:
English 10-2 and Math 10-3
Or
All five Canadian General Educational Development (GED) tests
Or
Entrance Exam