Study Guide

Boilermaker

Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

 Apprenticeship and Certification

Study Guide

Boilermaker
(Based on 2012 NOA)

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division

Version 5
November, 2016
Table of Contents

Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 3
Exam Process .................................................................................................................................. 4
Before the Exam.......................................................................................................................... 4
During the Exam.......................................................................................................................... 4
After the Exam ............................................................................................................................ 4
Exam Format ................................................................................................................................... 5
Exam Content .................................................................................................................................. 9
Understanding the National Occupational Analysis (NOA) ........................................................ 9
Exam Breakdown ...................................................................................................................... 11
NOA Sub-tasks........................................................................................................................... 12
Task Profile Checklist ................................................................................................................ 13
Create a Study Plan ....................................................................................................................... 16
Resources - Websites .................................................................................................................... 19
Resources – Book List.................................................................................................................... 20
Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................... 21

Appendices

Appendix A: Regional Offices ................................................................................................ 22

Appendix B: Calculator Use ................................................................................................... 23
Appendix C: Answer Sheet Example ..................................................................................... 24
Introduction

This Study Guide has been developed by the Newfoundland and Labrador Department of
Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division, to
assist apprentices and trade qualifiers as they prepare to write the Interprovincial (IP) Red Seal
Exam. IP Exams are available for all Red Seal trades. For a list of Interprovincial trades please
refer to the Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour website:
[Link]/app/[Link]

Some of the specific goals of this guide are:

 to help you understand the skills and knowledge that might be covered on the exam
 to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses
 to provide organization and structure for a course of study
 to provide a list of resources to help you with your study plan
 to support and supplement the teaching and learning process

This study guide outlines the theoretical portion of the program. The intent is not to replace
technical training provided under the guidance of instructors. Rather, it is a tool to be used in
conjunction with formal training.

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 3
Exam Process

Before the Exam

You must contact the nearest Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Divisional office to make
request to write the IP Red Seal exam (See Appendix A for a list of regional offices). Upon
approval, the Program Development Officer (PDO) will notify you of your eligibility to write the
exam, and provide you with scheduling information. If you require special accommodations
due to a disability or language barrier, please contact your regional office for information on
applying for this service.

During the Exam

You must bring:
 personal identification such as a photo or signature ID or valid Newfoundland
and Labrador driver’s license
 your notification letter

The following will be provided:

 a calculator (see Appendix B for calculator information)
 all other items required such as pencils, scrap paper, etc.

Important Note:
Personal cell phones, calculators, or other electronic equipment are NOT allowed into the
exam room. If you do bring them, they will be stored away and returned to you when you
have completed the exam.

After the Exam

Results will be mailed to you approximately seven to ten days after completion of the exam. All
necessary instructions and information will be provided in the results letter.

The percentage mark you obtained will be provided. You will also be given a section by section
breakdown, showing how many questions were in each section, as well as the number of
questions in each section you completed successfully.

If you are successful in obtaining a 70% or more on your exam, you will be issued a
Newfoundland and Labrador Certificate of Qualification with a Red Seal endorsement.

4 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
Exam Format

All IP Red Seal exams are written in multiple-choice format. Each exam has between 100 and
150 questions. A multiple choice question consists of a stem (a complete question) followed by
four options (A, B, C, D). The stem contains all the information necessary to answer the
question. The options consist of the one correct answer and three “distracters.” Distracters
are incorrect. (See Appendix C for a sample answer sheet).

IP Red Seal exams contain three types of questions:

Level 1 Knowledge and Recall

Questions at this level test your ability to recall and understand definitions, facts,
and principles.

Level 2 Procedural and Application

Questions at this level test your ability to apply your knowledge of procedures to
a new situation.

Level 3 Critical Thinking

Questions at this level test your ability to interpret data, solve problems and
arrive at valid conclusions.

Level 1 Examples:

1. What is used to determine the total number of downcomers required

when erecting a tower?

A. Material list.
B. Bill of lading.
C. Sectional detail view.
D. Plan view.

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 5
 2. What must be obtained before beginning to work in any tank or confined
space?

A. Breathing equipment.
B. Entry permit.
C. Permission from the supervisor.
D. Safety harness.

3. What is the main advantage of using a basket hitch?

A. There is 360° sling contact with the load.

B. It prevents the load from rotating.
C. It has double the capacity of a single vertical
hitch.
D. It is suited for lifting long loads.

Level 2 Examples:

1. What is the proper storage method for oxygen and acetylene gas
cylinders?

A. Laid down and grouped together.

B. Separated, upright and secured in a designated
area.
C. Stored individually and in an upright position.
D. Secured with nylon rope in a designated area.

6 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
 2. What is the weight of an S200 x 27 x 3500 beam?

A. 94.5 kg.
B. 945.0 kg.
C. 5 400.0 kg.
D. 7 875.0 kg.

3. Which configuration is best suited for lifting a vessel shell section 5 ft. in
diameter and 10 ft. long?

A. Single choker hitch.

B. Double wrapped choker hitch.
C. Double basket hitch.
D. Single vertical hitch.

Level 3 Examples:

1. What is the mean diameter of a cylinder that is to be rolled to an OD of 74

in. if the material thickness is ¾ in.?

A. 72.50 in.
B. 73.25 in.
C. 74.00 in.
D. 74.75 in.

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 7
 2. A tank is 40 ft. in diameter and 30 ft. high? What must be done when the
gravel base varies by 5/8 in.?

A. Trim the plates to horizontal level on the top of

the first ring before starting the second ring.
B. Adjust the bed to horizontal level after
completing the tank floor and the first ring.
C. Ensure that the top of the first ring is level by
leavings gaps where it connects to the floor
plates.
D. Trim the plates to horizontal level on the top of
the final ring to ensure that the tank is level.

3. How many rafters are to be installed at a chord distance of 6 ft. 3 1/8 in. on
a 40 ft. diameter tank?

A. 20.
B. 21.
C. 22.
D. 23.

Source of Questions:
[Link]/[Link]?tid=35

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Exam Content
Understanding the National Occupational Analysis (NOA)
The NOA is a document used for Red Seal trades that describes the knowledge, skills and
abilities required by a fully competent tradesperson working in that trade. The content for the
IP Red Seal exam is based on the NOA. The NOA is an excellent tool to use as you study for the
Red Seal exam. NOAs can be found at [Link].

NOA material is organized into major content areas called BLOCKS. The blocks are further
broken down into TASKS and SUB-TASKS.

Blocks  Sub-tasks
 Tasks
NOA Blocks

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 9
NOA Pie Chart
The NOA Pie Chart presents the block percentages in the form of a pie chart which tells you the
approximate number of questions from each block. For example, 26% of the questions on the
Boilermaker Exam will be based on Block A.

BOILERMAKER

A
D 26%
25%

B
C 28%
21%

Block Titles
Block A Common Occupational Skills Block C New Construction
Block B Rigging and Hoisting Block D Upgrading, Maintenance and Repair

10 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
Exam Breakdown
The Boilermaker exam currently has 120 questions. The following table shows a breakdown of
the number of questions that come from each NOA block. It is important to note that the exact
number of questions can change at any time. When you are ready to write your exam, you may
contact your regional office to verify the number of questions (See Appendix A).

# of Questions
Block A Common Occupational Skills 31
Task 1 Uses and maintains tools and equipment
Task 2 Performs safety-related functions
Task 3 Organizes work
Task 4 Performs cutting and welding activities
Block B Rigging and Hoisting 33
Task 5 Plans lift
Task 6 Rigs load
Task 7 Hoists load
Task 8 Performs post-lift activities
Block C New Construction 27
Task 9 Performs fabrication
Task 10 Assembles and fits vessels and components
Task 11 Fastens components
Block D Upgrading, Maintenance and Repair 29
Task 12 Services vessels and components
Task 13 Removes vessels and components
Total 120

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 11
NOA Sub-tasks

The following NOA Task Profile Checklist outlines the blocks, tasks and sub-tasks for your trade.
The IP Red Seal exam is written to test your knowledge and abilities regarding the sub-tasks in
the NOA. This chart can be used to review your current knowledge. You can review by placing
a checkmark () next to those you understand fully.

Place your focus on those you do not understand and study them until you are comfortable
with the material. Think of possible questions in that particular content area.

The NOA also contains a list of “supporting knowledge and abilities” for each sub-task. They
are the skills and knowledge you must have to perform a sub-task. The supporting knowledge
and abilities identified under each sub-task will be very helpful as you review. The list can be
found in the NOA for your trade.

12 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
 Task Profile Checklist
Based on 2012 NOA
Boilermaker

Block A: Common Occupational Skills

 Task 1: Uses and maintains tools and equipment

 Maintain tools and equipment

 Uses work platforms and access equipment
Sub-Tasks

 Uses aerial work platforms

 Maintains rigging equipment

 Task 2: Performs safety-related functions

 Uses personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety equipment

 Maintains personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety equipment
Sub-Tasks

 Maintains safe work environment

 Monitors confined spaces

 Task 3: Organizes work

 Organizes project tasks and procedures

 Uses drawings and specifications
Sub-Tasks

 Handles materials and components

 Demobilizes site

 Task 4: Performs cutting and welding activities

 Cuts material
 Prepares joints for fitting
Sub-Tasks

 Fits joints
 Performs tack welds
 Performs basic welding

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 13
Block B: Rigging and Hoisting

 Task 5: Plans lift

 Determines load
 Performs per-lift analysis
Sub-Tasks

 Selects rigging and hoisting equipment

 Secures lift area

 Task 6: Rigs load

 Inspects rigging equipment

 Fabricates rigging equipment
Sub-Tasks

 Attaches rigging equipment to load

 Task 7: Hoists load

 Inspects hoisting equipment

 Assembles hoisting equipment
Sub-Tasks

 Performs hoisting operation

 Secures load before rigging removal

 Task 8: Performs post-lift activities

 Conducts post-lift inspection

 Disassembles hoisting equipment
Sub-Tasks

14 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
Block C: New Construction

 Task 9: Performs fabrication

 Lays out components for fabrication

 Cuts components for fabrication
Sub-Tasks

 Forms components for fabrication

 Constructs components

 Task 10: Assembles and fits vessels and components

 Aligns vessels and components

Sub-Tasks

 Fits vessels and components

 Task 11: Fastens components

 Bolts components
Sub-Tasks

 Expands tubes
 Lays up fiberglass

Block D: Upgrading, Maintenance and Repair

 Task 12: Services vessels and components

 Inspects vessels and components for defects
 Upgrades vessels and components
 Replaces vessels and components
Sub-Tasks

 Prepares vessels and components for maintenance

 Repairs vessels and components
 Performs preventative maintenance
 Tests materials, vessels and components

 Task 13: Removes vessels and components

 Dismantles vessels and components

Sub-Tasks

 Removes material

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 15
Create a Study Plan
As you prepare for your exam, it is important to plan a schedule. The following two tables will
help you stay on track.

The first table is a “Weekly Study Plan.” In this table list the areas you will focus your study
for each day. You should include items you need to review as well as items you need to study.
Remember, more time will be needed for study in areas you find difficult, whereas you may
only require review in areas you are more familiar with. As you work through the NOA sub-
task list you can start to fill in this table.

The second table is a “Study Time Table.” It is important to create a study schedule where
you determine the best days of the week and times of day for you to study.

Print several copies of these tables and fill out for each week of study. It is important to stick
to your study schedule.

16 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
 Weekly Study Plan for Week of: _________________________________________

Area of Study 1 Area of Study 2 Area of Study 3 Area of Study 4 Area of Study 5 Area of Study 6
Mon.

Tues.

Wed.

Thu.

Fri.

Sat.

Sun.
Study Time Table for Week of: _________________________________________
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8:00 AM -
9:00 AM

9:00 AM -
10:00 AM

10:00 AM -
11:00 AM

11:00 AM -
12:00 Noon

12:00 Noon
1:00 PM

1:00 PM -
2:00 PM

2:00 PM -
3:00 PM

3:00 PM -
4:00 PM

4:00 PM -
5:00 PM

5:00 PM -
6:00 PM

6:00 PM -
7:00 PM

7:00 PM -
8:00 PM
Resources - Websites
Study information can be drawn from a variety of sources. A sample list of study materials
(websites and books) is provided below. These and other helpful resources may be found in a
local college bookstore, on the internet, or at your place of employment. You may also be able
to borrow them from an apprentice or journeyperson in your trade.

Study Strategies and Exam Preparation Guide

The Study Strategies & Exam Preparation Guide is meant to be used in conjunction with this study
guide. It provides direction and information on such areas as study habits, test preparation and test
taking techniques.

Exam Preparation Guide: [Link]/app/publications/exam_prep_guide.pdf

Plan of Training (POT)

A Provincial Plan of Training details the full scope of learning for a particular occupation, including both
technical training competencies and industry experiences necessary to write an IP Red Seal exam (and
complete the requirements for Red Seal Certification), or to write a provincial examination. The Plan of
Training is based on the NOA.

POT Website: [Link]/app/[Link]

Red Seal Website

National Occupational Analysis - The NOA is a document used for Red Seal trades that describes the
knowledge and abilities required by a fully competent tradesperson working in that trade. The content
for the IP exam is based on the NOA.

Red Seal Website: [Link]

Boilermaker PRACTICE Exam

This is NOT an IP exam. This is a practice exam provided by the Inter-provincial Standards Red Seal
Program. It was developed using similar question types to that of a Red Seal exam. The exam is
intended to be used for self-assessment in preparation for writing an IP Exam.

Sample questions can be found at: [Link]/[Link]?tid=35

Glossary of Terms

The Red Seal website also lists a Glossary of Terms which will be helpful in preparing for your IP
exam:
[Link]/trades/boilermakers/2012n.4.1_.1ppb_gl.[Link]

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 19
Resources – Book List

The books listed below can help you obtain information on specific topics. It is not necessary
to use these books specifically, as you may find others that will be equally beneficial.

If you wish to obtain any of the resources listed, here is the reference information:

 Metals and How to Weld Them, 2nd edition, James F Lincoln, Jefferson, T.B., ISBN 978-
9999738460
 IPT’s Metal Trades Handbook, IPT Publishing and Training Ltd., 1993, Garby, Ronald G., and
Ashton, Bruce J., ASIN B0006F5Z7C
 IPT’s Guide to Blueprint Interpretation, IPT Publishing and Training Ltd., 2004, Jacobs, Grant
E., ISBN 978-0920855423
 Practical Problems in Mathematics for Welders, 4th edition, Delmar Cengage Learning,
1995, Schell, Frank R., and Matlock, Bill, ISBN 978-0827367067
 Boilermaking Manual, Ministry of Education, Province of British Columbia, 1987, ISBN 978-
0771882548

20 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
Disclaimer
Various external resources (websites, textbooks) have been listed in this study guide to assist an
individual in preparing to write an IP Red Seal Exam. This does not mean the Department of
Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, Newfoundland and Labrador endorse the material or
that these are recommended as the best resources. There may be other resources of equal or
greater value to an individual preparing for an IP Red Seal exam. The Department of Advanced
Education, Skills and Labour has no control over the content of external textbooks and websites
listed, and no responsibility is assumed for the accuracy of the material.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has provided you with some useful tools as you prepare for your IP Red Seal
exam. If you have any questions regarding your IP Red Seal exam please contact your regional
office (see Appendix A for a list of regional offices).

We appreciate your comments and feedback regarding the usefulness of this study guide. If
you have any comments or suggestions, we welcome your feedback. The feedback form at the
end of this guide can be used for this purpose.

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 21
Appendix A: Regional Offices
If you have any questions regarding your IP Red Seal exam, please contact one of the following
regional offices:

Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division
Toll Free: 1-877-771-3737
[Link]/app/

Corner Brook Grand Falls-Windsor

1-3 Union Street 42 Hardy Avenue

Aylward Building, 2nd Floor Grand Falls-Windsor, NL
Corner Brook, NL A2H 5M7 A2A 2J9

Telephone: (709) 637-2366 Telephone: (709) 292-4215

Facsimile: (709) 637-2519 Facsimile: (709) 292-4502

Clarenville St. John’s

45 Tilley’s Road P.O. Box 8700

Clarenville, NL 1170 Topsail Road
A5A 1Z4 Mount Pearl, NL A1B 4J6

Telephone: (709) 466-3982 Telephone: (709) 729-2729

Facsimile: (709) 466-3987 Facsimile: (709) 729-5878

Happy Valley – Goose Bay

163 Hamilton River Road

Bursey Building
Happy Valley – Goose Bay, NL
A0P 1E0

Telephone: (709) 896-6348

Facsimile: (709) 896-3733

22 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
Appendix B: Calculator Use
The picture below shows a calculator with the same functions as the one you will be provided
with during your exam. It is advisable to borrow or purchase one with similar functions so that
you can familiarize yourself with it before you write your exam.

Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016 23
Appendix C: Answer Sheet Example
With your exam you will be given an answer sheet similar to the one below. When answering
multiple choice questions be sure to fill the circle completely and fill the circle that corresponds
to the question on the exam.

24 Study Guide_Boilermaker_2016
 Feedback Form
Study Guide – Boilermaker

Please answer the following:

(1) This Study Guide is a useful tool for exam preparation.

 strongly agree  agree  disagree  strongly disagree

(2) The topics contained in the guide are arranged in a logical order.
 strongly agree  agree  disagree  strongly disagree

(3) The design and format of the guide caught my attention.

 strongly agree  agree  disagree  strongly disagree

(4) The instructions throughout the guide are clear and to the point.
 strongly agree  agree  disagree  strongly disagree

(5) The resources listed in this guide are suitable and valuable.
 strongly agree  agree  disagree  strongly disagree

(6) The guide should contain more information.

 strongly agree  agree  disagree  strongly disagree

Suggested information/resources to include:

Additional Comments:

Please complete this form and return via fax or mail to the following:
Department of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
Apprenticeship and Trades Certification
Standards and Curriculum Unit
45 Tilley’s Road, Clarenville, NL A5A 1Z4
Fax: (709) 466-3987