What does Red Seal mean?

 

The Red Seal Program is the Canadian standard of excellence for skilled trades. Formally known as the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, it sets common standards to assess the skills of tradespersons across Canada. Tradespersons who meet the Red Seal standards receive a Red Seal endorsement on their provincial/territorial trade certificates.

​

Red Seal Licensed Carpenter:

​

Carpenters construct, renovate and repair residential, civil, institutional, commercial and industrial (ICI) structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including new home builders and renovation firms, construction firms, building owners, property managers and tenants, building developers and government departments.

Some carpenters are union members and a significant number are self-employed.

​

While the scope of the carpenter trade includes many aspects of building construction, a growing number of carpenters work for contractors who specialize in such areas of trade practice as concrete forming, framing, finishing, interior systems and renovation. Carpenters are employed in a variety of job environments, including houses under construction or renovation, ICI and infrastructure projects, and plants that pre-fabricate buildings. They must be prepared to work in a variety of working environments.

​

Safety is of prime importance to all carpenters. In addition to typical risks of injury resulting from slips and falls, falling objects and the use of hand and power tools, carpenters must be aware of constantly changing work surroundings to mitigate the chance of injury to self and others. The proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and related training is very important to carpenters regardless of their location of work. Risk/hazard assessments prior to performing tasks are necessary and important.

​

Some important competencies of a carpenter are good knowledge of mathematics, the ability to use metric and imperial measurements, an understanding of building science, communication and problem solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Other skills present in a competent carpenter are the ability to work at heights, the ability to stand or kneel for long periods of time, manual dexterity and good balance. Carpentry is a physically demanding occupation requiring the lifting of heavy tools and materials. Journeyperson carpenters are expected to mentor apprentices given the hands-on nature of the trade.

​

This analysis recognizes similarities and overlaps with the work of other tradespersons such as roofers, lathers (interior systems mechanics), drywall finisher and plasterers, floorcovering installers, concrete finishers, ironworkers (reinforcing) and cabinetmakers. Experienced carpenters may advance to supervisory positions, or become independent contractors, due to their involvement in most aspects of building construction.

​

Occupational Observations:

​

The carpenter trade is constantly evolving with advanced innovations and technology for increased accuracy and efficiency. There is an increase in the use of specialized power tools that are taking the place of some hand tools. Such tools as detail sanders, layout instruments (total stations) and laser levels are making the carpenters’ work more accurate and efficient. Oscillating tools are becoming popular because they make accurate cuts and are extremely versatile. Compressed gas-powered fastening tools are increasing in use due to their portability and efficiency. Scissor lifts, rolling platforms and zoom booms are replacing scaffolding and ladders on many job sites. Cordless tools are now commonplace and are improving in longevity, durability and torque. Lithium ion technology for cordless tools is becoming more common.

​

Some concrete forming systems are now made of plastics, composites and aluminum, making concrete forming more versatile and efficient. New engineered forming systems such as insulated concrete forms (ICF) have emerged in the industry.

Triple glazed windows and UV rated glass are becoming more popular due to thermal efficiency. For ease of installation and pricing consideration, engineered hardwood and laminate flooring are increasing in popularity. Soundproofing systems are evolving with the introduction of sound transmission class (STC) assemblies including insulation products such as mineral wool insulation (Roxul®). Countertop materials have diversified with materials such as stone, composite stone and concrete.

​

There are a number of “green building” certification systems becoming commonplace in the governmental and private construction industry. Use of these environmentally friendly systems can influence the selection of building materials and products, and can include building techniques aimed at achieving increased energy-efficiency. Low volatile organic compound (VOC) building products are increasingly being demanded by the public.

​

Many companies in the construction industry are providing leadership in safety awareness and in the enforcement of safety policies on the job site. Safety training and the development of safety policies and procedures are being done by many companies in excess of regulations.

​

 

The above information was copied from The Red Seal Program website at:

http://www.red-seal.ca/trades/carpenters/2013n.4.1_.4v.2rv.3.2w-eng.html

​