Trades
Three trades.
One local.
Local 409 represents sheet metal workers, sheeter-deckers and roofers across mainland Nova Scotia. Here’s what each trade does on the job.
01
Sheet Metal Worker
The core of the local. Design, lay out, fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products and systems.
Sheet metal workers design, lay out, measure, fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products and equipment — from HVAC ductwork and ventilation systems to architectural cladding, flashings and custom fabrication.
The work runs from reading drawings and developing CAD patterns, through cutting, bending and forming on power shears, press brakes, rolls and CNC equipment, to installation and quality inspection on site. Materials include black iron, galvanized and stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass and various alloys.
It's an indoor and outdoor trade, sometimes seasonal and at heights. Skilled journeypersons advance into layout, design, estimating, supervisory roles — and ownership.
02
Sheeter-Decker
Specialized sheeting, cladding, insulation and decking on commercial and industrial construction.
Sheeter-deckers install the outer shell and structural decking of buildings — exterior siding and cladding, insulation, and steel roof and floor decking on commercial and industrial projects.
It's year-round work in extreme weather, often on elevated platforms and swing stages, handling large, heavy panels. Precision and safety go hand in hand at height.
03
Roofer
Waterproof roof systems on flat and sloped decks — a Red Seal trade.
Roofers install waterproof and weather-resistant membranes on flat and sloped roof decks of wood, steel or concrete. Systems include built-up asphalt over rigid-board insulation with gravel ballast, single-ply rubber membrane, and torch-applied modified bitumen.
Commercial and institutional roofing crews of five to eight — a foreman, journeypersons, material handlers and apprentices — work with hoists, conveyors, kettles and bobcats to move material and lay it down to spec.
Roofing is a Red Seal trade, and Local 409 has fielded competitors at the Canadian Council apprentice competitions — including its first female roofing competitor, who placed second.