Trends in the Sheet Metal Worker trade
Technology
There is an increase in the use of 3D modeling and CAD software to help with the visualization of blueprints and the manufacturing process. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is being used in many jurisdictions and is becoming increasingly important for sheet metal workers. It enables them to create and manage digital models of sheet metal projects throughout their lifecycle, from planning and design to fabrication and installation. Greater awareness of this new technology is needed for apprentices entering the trade.
There is an ongoing increase in technology such as digitization and automation which are transforming the industry’s efficiency, productivity and workforce management. These new technologies make measuring, layout and pattern development more efficient, and in some cases, may reduce the frequency of some manual layout practices.
Health and Safety
There is a growing need to improve health and safety for workers on jobsites. Ensuring that workers have a solid understanding of their rights, including general workers’ rights and union policies, is essential. There is a growing appreciation and awareness of the importance of mental health and respectful workplaces.
Workers need to continually stay aware of health and safety legislative and regulatory changes that are intended to protect their health and safety and outline worker, supervisory and employer responsibilities.
Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment continue to improve in the trade. Equipment such as laser welders, laser cutting tables, laser levelling and 3D scanners enhance productivity, safety, precision and efficiency. A robotic total station may enable faster and more precise layout, placement and installation of sheet metal components.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is transforming the sheet metal worker trade in several innovative ways such as training and skills development, enhancing precision and improving the quality of the finished product. It also improves safety by providing real time safety instructions and alerts, ensuring workers follow proper procedures and avoid hazards.
There is an increasing use of tablets on the worksite for communications and accessing work documents such as blueprints and specifications.
The robotization of suspension anchor drilling in the sheet metal worker trade involves integrating advanced robotic systems to automate the drilling process. This technology enhances precision, efficiency and safety in the manufacturing and installation activities of the trade.
Battery-operated tools and equipment have become increasingly popular in the sheet metal worker trade due to their convenience, portability, efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits.
Products/Materials
Pre-fabricated products are becoming more popular. Suppliers are opting for these pre-fabricated components as they can reduce costs and streamline operations.
Composite materials, such as fibre-reinforced polyethylene (FRP), solid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and PVC-coated components, are increasingly being used in the trade in applications such as underground ductwork, for transporting hazardous or corrosive materials, roofing, flashing and cladding as they provide a durable and weather-resistant surface which may protect against corrosion and wear.
There are many new products such as high induction diffusers, mechanical joint systems, fabric ducts and phenolic ducts, slab ducts, and cable suspension systems that are now commonplace in the trade.
Environmental
Recycling ferrous and non-ferrous materials is essential for both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. To maximize these benefits, it is important to educate workers on effective recycling practices.
Sheet metal workers play a significant role in various green energy projects such as solar-heat, wind-power, nuclear energy, renewable fuel sources and geothermal energy. These projects contribute to a sustainable future and sheet metal workers are critical to their development.
Legislative and Regulatory
There has been an increase in the number of provinces and territories that have designated this trade as compulsory. For those jurisdictions, it is important that workers are well-qualified to be working on HVAC systems.
Other
Multi-trade racks are being introduced to many large-scale workplaces. These racks are organized to transport and contain all mechanical parts that are required for multiple trades’ mechanical systems because they can improve the efficiency and provide a coordinated workflow.