According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Measure and cut insulation for covering surfaces, using tape measures, handsaws, knives, and scissors. | 93% |
| Apply, remove, and repair insulation on industrial equipment, pipes, ductwork, or other mechanical systems such as heat exchangers, tanks, and vessels, to help control noise and maintain temperatures. | 88% |
| Select appropriate insulation, such as fiberglass, Styrofoam, or cork, based on the heat retaining or excluding characteristics of the material. | 88% |
| Fit insulation around obstructions, and shape insulating materials and protective coverings as required. | 87% |
| Determine the amounts and types of insulation needed, and methods of installation, based on factors such as location, surface shape, and equipment use. | 85% |
| Cover, seal, or finish insulated surfaces or access holes with plastic covers, canvas strips, sealants, tape, cement, or asphalt mastic. | 84% |
| Install sheet metal around insulated pipes with screws to protect the insulation from weather conditions or physical damage. | 84% |
| Read blueprints and specifications to determine job requirements. | 83% |
| Distribute insulating materials evenly into small spaces within floors, ceilings, or walls, using blowers and hose attachments or cement mortar. | 83% |
| Prepare surfaces for insulation application by brushing or spreading on adhesives, cement, or asphalt, or by attaching metal pins to surfaces. | 82% |
| Remove or seal off old asbestos insulation, following safety procedures. | 70% |
| Fill blower hoppers with insulating materials. | 62% |
| Move controls, buttons, or levers to start blowers, and to regulate flow of materials through nozzles. | 51% |
