Trends in the Sheet Metal Worker trade
Technology
Much of the equipment used by sheet metal workers has remained the same. However, some equipment has become computer-controlled and motorized to improve efficiency. Sheet metal workers are using more computerized software and equipment to design and lay out and fabricate sheet metal products.
Safety
Workplaces have become safer because of an increase in training and legislated safety practices and procedures. There is a greater awareness of the importance of job safety. For example, practices such as documentation, safety committees and weekly safety meetings are well-established.
Environment
Clients are more inclined to promote the use of environmentally friendly products and processes in their buildings. Environmental considerations are modifying building methods to reduce energy use, implementing integrated building management systems, improving indoor air quality and taking advantage of alternate energy sources. For instance, “green roofs” are becoming more common. Plastic and new alloys are being used for venting and will continue to become more prevalent with the continued effort to increase fuel efficiency in all gas burning appliances.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) projects are becoming more prevalent in this trade which have led to the use of different products such as solar panels/walls and reflective surfaces, and different building processes. For instance, these standards impact the removal and recycling of construction materials, collection and control of dust, and limiting of solvents and other chemicals. Also, environmental upgrading and maintenance of existing systems is a developing trend in the trade.
New versions of building codes are being revised with the “net zero” principle in mind. This means that there is a need for more complex systems that conserve, reuse and generate energy.