In Allentown Pa., Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 helped to develop new HVAC standards which the city council adopted earlier this month.
Local 19’s Bill Dorward told WFMZ-TV electricians and plumbers already must meet training standards before working in the city, but there’s nothing on the books to ensure that all HVAC workers are as trained and qualified as Local 19’s members.
We didn’t have anything in place for the quality of the air we breath. So it became a necessary issue.
Joe Sellers, Local 19 Business Manager, explained that SMWIA members have received quality training and education through its programs for decades.
We have developed one of the most thorough and comprehensive training programs in the entire nation….Our program develops skilled sheet metal apprentices and journeypersons who are competent in all aspects of our trade and are able to work safely without close supervision.