WEBVTT

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Working in a harness

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on top of a dam

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hundreds of feet up…

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crouched in a corner

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of a storage tank…

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sparks flying…

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the work of a boilermaker takes strength,

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stamina, and the willingness to endure

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heights as well as confined spaces.

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Boilermakers install and repair boilers,

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closed vats, and other large vessels

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that are used to process

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and store chemicals, oil, beer,

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and hundreds of other products.

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Boilermakers also build and repair

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blast furnaces, water treatment plants,

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and pollution abatement equipment.

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Some install the huge pipes used in dams.

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Boilermakers follow blueprints

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to install boilers,

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and to test or repair them.

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They use flame-cutting torches

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and welding equipment,

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as well as other hand

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and machine tools.

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Their work is physically demanding

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and dangerous.

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They often work outdoors,

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sometimes in extreme heat and cold.

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They must wear hardhats, safety glasses,

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earplugs and other protective clothing…

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including respirators

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when working in enclosed spaces.

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Boilermakers work full time,

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but may work overtime

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to meet construction deadlines

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or to complete work

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during an equipment shutdown.

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They often travel to worksites…

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living away from home for extended periods.

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Seasonal unemployment

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is not unusual during summer and winter

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—off seasons for maintenance—

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or when construction projects

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have been completed.

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After completing high school,

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most boilermakers learn their trade

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through apprenticeships.

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Welding experience is helpful

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to qualify for an apprenticeship.