Skills for success (Essential Skills) summary
Essential skills are needed for work, learning and life. They provide the foundation for learning all other skills and enable people to evolve with their jobs and adapt to workplace change.
Through extensive research, the Government of Canada and other national and international agencies have identified and validated nine essential skills. These skills are used in nearly every occupation and throughout daily life in different ways.
A series of CCDA-endorsed tools have been developed to support apprentices in their training and to be better prepared for a career in the trades. The tools can be used independently or with the assistance of a tradesperson, trainer, employer, teacher or mentor to:
- understand how essential skills are used in the trades;
- learn about individual essential skills strengths and areas for improvement; and
- improve essential skills and increase success in an apprenticeship program.
The tools are available online or for order at:
The application of these skills may be described throughout this document within the skills and knowledge which support each sub-task of the trade. The following are summaries of the requirements in each of the essential skills, taken from the essential skills profile. A link to the complete essential skills profile can be found at http://www.red-seal.ca/.
Reading
Roofers read instructions on work orders as well as application and installation instructions for roofing products and materials. They read information sheets to learn about new products and materials. They also need to refer to blueprints and specifications to complete roofing jobs.
Document use
Roofers reference documents such as work orders, plans and specifications and site-specific safety plans that are required for construction, alteration and repairs. They identify the location and orientation of parts in assembly drawings of equipment. Roofers read Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) documentation to obtain and follow safe handling and application procedures.
Writing
Roofers may write in logbooks and on contract forms and work orders to describe the work that needs to be done. They may fill out maintenance and inspection reports. They are required to complete safety documents according to jurisdictional regulations.
Oral communication
Roofers communicate with colleagues, other trade workers, manufacturers and supervisors to discuss and review job and safety requirements. They speak to customers to explain procedures used for application and disposal of roofing materials. They may also use specialized communication such as hand signals to communicate with crane or hoist operators when moving materials and equipment.
Numeracy
Roofers measure the length, width and height of roof surfaces so they can order the correct amount of materials to complete a roofing job. They also use drawings to calculate material requirements. Roofers use numeracy skills to determine the layout of shingles. They may use thermometers to measure the temperature of roofing materials and working environments to ensure conditions are appropriate for application of the materials.
Thinking
Roofers use problem solving skills to address oversights and discrepancies on the job site. They assess roof conditions and consult with supervisors and clients to adjust the scope of a roofing job. They must anticipate changes in weather to prevent damage to an existing roofing structure and to roofing material. Roofers use decision making skills to decide the start and end of work considering factors such as weather and the availability of supplies and labour. They use critical thinking skills to judge the quality of finished roofing jobs. They also test to make sure roofing materials are sealed and have adhered properly.
Working with others
Most roofers work collaboratively on teams to complete roofing projects. They discuss safety, work processes, installation improvements and quality control.
Digital technology
Roofers may use digital technology to communicate with others in the industry. They may also use the Internet to look up product and safety information. Documentation is increasingly being accessed and completed with digital tools such as smart phones, tablets and laptops. Specialized apps are available for accessing manufacturers’ information and installation instructions.
Continuous learning
Roofers are continuously learning in order to keep abreast of new roofing products, application procedures and safety precautions. They take WHMIS and provincial/territorial construction safety courses, as well as other safety-related courses to stay current. Manufacturers sometimes provide training on their products. Roofers may also learn from manuals and newsletters.