Insulation Workers
Description OES Code: 87802
Cover and line structures with insulation using saws, knives, rasps, trowels, and other tools and implements. May also specialize in providing blown-in insulation.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $9.10
25th Percentile $10.44
50th Percentile $14.16
75th Percentile $20.69

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Most workers in this industry work full time, many over 40 hours a week. In 1998, more than 1 in 5 wage and salary construction workers worked 45 hours or more a week; over half of self-employed individuals worked over 45 hours a week. Construction craftsworkers may sometimes work evenings, weekends, and holidays to finish a job or take care of an emergency.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 1,800
Projected Employment 2008 2,000
Percent Change 1998-2008 11.1%
Separations 1998-2008 600

Employment Trends by California County

Advancement
Skilled insulation workers may advance to supervisor, shop superintendent, insulation contract estimator, or set up their own insulation business.

Getting the Job & Other Information
For information about training programs or other work opportunities in this trade, contact a local insulation contractor; a local chapter of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers; the nearest office of the State employment service or State apprenticeship agency, or:

International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers, 1776 Massachusetts Ave. NW., Suite 301, Washington, DC 20036

National Insulation Contractors Association, 99 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 222, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Insulation Contractors Association of America, 1321 Duke St., Suite 303, Alexandria, VA 22314.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Most insulation workers learn their trade informally on the job, although some workers complete formal apprenticeship programs. For entry jobs, insulation contractors prefer high school graduates who are in good physical condition and licensed to drive. High school courses in blueprint reading, shop math, sheet-metal layout, and general construction provide a helpful background. Applicants seeking apprenticeship positions must have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and be at least 18 years old.

Trainees who learn on the job receive instruction and supervision from experienced insulation workers. Trainees begin with simple tasks, such as carrying insulation or holding material while it is fastened in place. On-the-job training can take up to 2 years, depending on the work. Learning to install insulation in homes generally requires less training than insulation application in commercial and industrial settings. As they gain experience, trainees receive less supervision, more responsibility, and higher pay.

Skills & Other Requirements
Insulation workers generally work indoors. They must be physically able to spend most of the workday on their feet, either standing, bending, or kneeling, and sometimes work from ladders or in tight spaces. The work requires more coordination than strength. Insulation work is often dusty and dirty, and the summer heat can make the insulation worker very uncomfortable. The minute particles from insulation materials, especially when blown, can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Workers must be able to follow strict safety guidelines to protect themselves from the dangers of insulating irritants, keeping work areas well ventilated, wearing protective suits, masks, and respirators, and taking decontamination showers when necessary.

References
US Bureau Of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

Related Occupations:Carpet Installers, Drywall Installers

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)