Welders Benefit from Changes to Trade Regulations

Welders in Nova Scotia will now be able to become certified more quickly and efficiently due to changes to the Welder Trade Regulations under the Apprenticeship Act.

"We're reducing the number of exams welders need to take, allowing them to complete their certification more quickly and fill skills gaps in the industry," said Education Minister Jamie Muir. "This is another step we are taking with our partners in industry and labour to improve the apprenticeship system in Nova Scotia."

In November 2003, the Welder Ad Hoc Advisory Committee recommended that the welder trade regulations should be revised to reflect the current needs of industry and apprentices. The government approved the revisions, which came into effect on Aug. 26.

"These changes will make it easier for older workers to get their interprovincial standard, or Red Seal, without the hassle and expense of three examinations," said John Wilson, business manager for Ironworkers, Local 752. "We are pleased that government is working with industry to improve opportunities for welders in Nova Scotia."

There are currently 1,276 certified welders in the province and about 75 registered apprentices.

"More and more, welders we hire are interested in achieving Red Seal certification. They see the value of it and realize they have to have it, as it gives them mobility," said Louis Blinn at A.F. Theriault & Son Shipyard in Meteghan River. "Also, the apprentice will learn the full range of the trade this way. This change is good for both industry and the individual."

The apprenticeship training and skill development division of the Department of Education will work with welder apprentices to help them achieve certification. For more information, call the division at 1-800-494-5651.