The first Firestop Containment Worker Apprenticeship Program was created in Washington State in 2006 through Local 7 Heat & Frost Insulator’s & Allied Workers Union. This program was soon adopted by Oregon’s Local 36 Union in 2009.

The goal of the apprentice program is to provide the highest level of training to apprentices, in order that they may assume positions as fully qualified journeymen ready to meet the professional challenges of the insulation industry.

The apprenticeship program emphasizes on-the-job training and classroom instruction, as well as the use of textbooks and other course materials that give participants a thorough knowledge of the trade.

As an apprentice, they will be assigned to work for a Firestop contractor. During their apprenticeship, they will work side by side with experienced journeymen who understand the practical application and theory.

Workers install approved fire-stop, smoke-stop systems, designed to return the rating to fire/smoke-rated floor and ceiling constriction. They may also install sound, air movement, infectious disease control systems. These systems are designed and tested as a component of the life safety industry and require following a detailed set of instructions to ensure adequate installation.

The Apprenticeship Program requires 6,800 hours (approx. 4 years) of on-the-job training to complete this program.

It also requires 576 hours of Related/Supplemental classroom instruction during the 4-year program.