Overview
Apply passive fire protection systems via spray, brush, roll, trowel, or even board. These fireproofing products do not prevent nor suppress fires. Rather, they ensure adequate thermal insulation of structures in the event of a fire, allowing time for the evacuation of people, etc. That is, passive fire protection ensures the structure (floor, beam, column, cross-bracing, etc., usually concrete or steel) will not buckle &/or collapse within a certain period of rated time (e.g., 1 hour) in the event of a fire. Passive Fire Protection systems range from thin filmed organic coatings to thicker cementitious products to mineral or fibre board. Passive Fire Protective systems contrast with Active Fire Protection systems, the latter of which employs an extinguishing media (e.g., sprinkler systems), and are installed by other trades.
Skills & Abilities
Fire proofers 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, Fire Proofers need:
- The skills to read, write and communicate verbally
- Good background in trade math
- 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
- Manual dexterity
- 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
- Computer skills are an asset