International Brotherhood of
LOCAL 11
104 WEST MAIN
P.O. BOX 1286
EAST HELENA, MT  59635
PHONE: (406) 227-8757
FAX: (406) 227-6721
NEWSWIRE HEADLINES
BULLETIN BOARD
The Bulletin Board is a place to
post non-work related messages.
 If you're a Local 11 member and
you have something you want to
share with others, please email
me at admin@boilermakers11.com
LINKS
Copyright © 2010 Boilermakers 11.  All Rights Reserved. admin@boilermakers11.com & jr@boilermakers11.com
WHAT IS A BOILERMAKER?

  • Anyone who works in the boiler construction or repair trade.

  • A member of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship
    Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers.

NATURE OF WORK                                                                                                            
Boilermakers and boilermaker mechanics make, install, and repair boilers, vats,
and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases.  Boilers supply steam to
drive huge turbines in electric power plants and to provide heat and power in
buildings, factories, and ships.  Tanks and vats are used to process and store
chemicals, oil, beer, and hundreds of other products.

Boilermaker mechanics maintain and repair boilers and similar vessels. They
inspect tubes, fittings, valves, controls, and auxiliary machinery and clean or
supervise the cleaning of boilers using scrapers, wire brushes, and cleaning
solvents. They repair or replace defective parts, using hand and power tools, gas
torches, and welding equipment, and may operate metalworking machinery to
repair or make parts. They also dismantle leaky boilers, patch weak spots with
metal stock, replace defective sections, and strengthen joints. Boilermakers
regularly maintain  and update components, such as burners and boiler tubes,
to increase efficiency.

WORKING CONDITIONS                                                                                                      
Boilermakers often use potentially dangerous equipment, such as acetylene
torches and power grinders, handle heavy parts, and work on ladders or on top
of large vessels. Work is physically demanding and may be done in cramped
quarters inside boilers, vats, or tanks that are often damp and poorly ventilated.
In some instances, work may be done at high elevations for an extended period.
To reduce the chance of injuries, boilermakers may wear hardhats, harnesses,
protective clothing, safety glasses,  shoes, and respirators. Boilermakers may
experience extended periods of overtime when equipment is shut down for
maintenance. Overtime work also may be necessary to meet construction or
production deadlines. At other times there may be periods of unemployment
between jobs.

TRAINING, OTHER QUALIFICATIONS, AND ADVANCEMENT
Apprenticeship programs usually consist of 4 years of on-the-job training,
supplemented by a minimum of 144 hours of classroom instruction each year in
subjects such as set-up and assembly rigging, welding of all types, blueprint
reading, and layout. Those with welding training or a welding certification will
have priority in applying for apprenticeship programs. Experienced boilermakers
often attend apprenticeship classes or seminars to learn about new equipment,
procedures, and technology. When an apprenticeship becomes available, the
local union publicizes the opportunity by notifying local vocational schools and
high school vocational programs.
BOILERMAKERS               IRON SHIP BUILDERS                BLACKSMITHS               FORGERS & HELPERS
You need Java to see this applet.
  • Monthly dues were increased
    to a $1.10 effective January 1,
    2010.  Read more under
    "MEETINGS".