Description of the Sprinkler Fitter trade
“Sprinkler Fitter” is this trade’s official Red Seal occupational title approved by the CCDA. This standard covers tasks performed by sprinkler fitters.
Sprinkler fitters lay out, install, commission, modify, inspect, test, maintain, troubleshoot and repair fire protection and suppression systems in a variety of buildings and settings. They work on fire protection and suppression systems including, but not limited to water-based sprinklers/standpipes (e.g., wet, dry, preaction, foam, deluge, water mist, antifreeze), specialty systems (e.g., clean agent, carbon dioxide, hybrid, wet and dry chemical fire suppression systems), and supplemental fire detection systems (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical). Their duties also include reading, interpreting and modifying engineered drawings and 3-D models, installing hangers, bracing, supports and restraints to support the piping system, preparing and joining pipe using a variety of methods, installing piping components, and installing water supplies and associated equipment including fire pumps, storage tanks and cross-connection control.
Sprinkler fitters usually, but not exclusively, work on industrial, institutional, commercial and residential sites such as office buildings, plants, factories, hospitals, hotels, houses, apartment buildings, airports and care homes. They may work for trade contractors, facility maintenance departments, and servicing companies. They may also be self-employed (e.g., labour contractors). Sprinkler fitters may specialize in installation, service, inspection, testing and maintenance.
Sprinkler fitters use tools and equipment such as hand tools, portable and stationary power tools, measuring and testing equipment, digital technology, access equipment, and rigging, hoisting and lifting equipment.
Sprinkler fitters work primarily indoors, often in unheated or temporarily heated spaces. They may also be required to install outdoor systems both above and below ground. The installation of sprinkler equipment takes place throughout all phases of construction, typically in the mid-to later stages of new construction or in situations where renovation of existing structures is undertaken, or upgrading is legislated. They are required to work in confined spaces and at heights. They may occasionally experience physical discomfort due to extensive lifting of various weights overhead, repetitive motion, temperature changes, vibration, noise, dust, and controlled hazardous environments.
Key attributes for people entering this trade are mechanical and mathematical aptitude, manual dexterity, good communication and problem-solving skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail. Physical strength and stamina, and the ability to work at a considerable height are also assets in this trade.
This standard recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of plumbers and steamfitter-pipefitters.
Experienced sprinkler fitters may advance to positions such as designers, principal owners, supervisors, estimators, labour representatives, contractors, project managers, inspectors and instructors. They also act as mentors and trainers of apprentices in the trade.