Sheet metal workers manufacture various types of articles and components out of sheet metal less than three millimetres thick.
They make and install sheet metal ducts for air-conditioning, heating and ventilation systems. They make and install metal for kitchen walls and counters and stamped metal for roofing and siding. They install roof gutters and downpipes for rainwater drainage and make skylights and vents for industrial buildings.
Sheet metal workers manufacture most metal components in workshops where the metal pieces to be used are measured, cut, bent, shaped and joined. After the metal has been cut the seams and joints are cemented, bolted, riveted, soldered or welded together to form ducts, pipes, tubes and other items.
In the final stage, the excess soldering or welding is removed and the article cleaned. Sometimes a product has to be treated against rust by galvanising, tin-plating or treating with certain chemicals.
Satisfying Aspects
- regular working hours
- extra pay for overtime
- working with your hands
- usually good remuneration
- steady work
Demanding aspects
- possibility of injury on the job
- physically tiring with much bending, lifting and standing
- working outdoors on construction sites in adverse weather conditions
Requirements
A sheet metal worker should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- be deft with his hands and have manual dexterity;
- be a precision worker;
- be interested in mechanical work;
- work alone as well as being part of a team;
- have good health and physical stamina;
- have mechanical aptitude;
- have good eye-hand coordination.
School Subjects
Grade 9 Certificate.
Some employers prefer higher qualifications.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Civil Technology, Mechanical Technology
Training
The duration of the learnership is 2 to 4 years. Prospective sheet metal workers can do their learnership at any organization in the aerospace industry, metal and mining industries, or at Transnet. Theoretical training is given at a technical college. Learners must obtain at least the N2-qualification and pass an approved trade test to qualify as tradespersons. Practical in-service training is given in the work situation, under the supervision of qualified tradespersons.
Employer
- Aerospace industry
- Transnet
- Metal industry
- Mining industry
- Engineering industries
- Contractors specialising in heating, refrigerating, air-conditioning and air pollution equipment
- Commercial building industry
Contact
MERSETA
P O Box 61826
Marshalltown, 2107
Tel: (011) 551-5202 Fax: 0866 730017
www.merseta.co.za
The Liaison Officer
The Steel & Engineering Industries Federation
of South Africa (SEIFSA)
P O Box 1338
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel: (011) 298-9400 Fax: (011) 298-9500
Head of Training
Iscor
P O Box 19
Pretoria, 0001
www.merseta.co.za