Red Seal Carpenter Exam Prep (Online)

Red Seal Carpenter Exam Prep Overview

The Red Seal Carpenter Exam Preparation course is designed based on the competencies listed in the trade’s National Occupational Analysis (NOA). The course will help students review all the trade-specific concepts and the theory they will need to challenge and successfully pass the Red Seal Examination.

This intensive review course is for participants who have the requisite theoretical and practical knowledge and have met the challenge requirements to write the exam. The course will guide candidates and help them with the preparation material for the exam to become a Red Seal designated Carpenter.

Students will have nine weeks to complete the course.

Topics Covered/Learning Objectives

• Equipment and materials
• Safety
• Structures
• Organization
• Concrete
• Doors and windows
• Walls and ceilings

Admission Requirements

None

Becoming a Carpenter as a Career Choice

Carpenters construct renovate and repair residential, civil, institutional, commercial and industrial structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including new home builders and renovation firms, construction firms, building owners, property managers and tenants, building developers and government departments. Some carpenters are union members and a significant number are self-employed.

What Do Carpenters Do?

While the scope of the carpenter trade includes many aspects of building construction, a growing number of carpenters work for contractors who specialize in such areas of trade practice as concrete forming, framing, finishing, interior systems and renovation. Carpenters are employed in a variety of job environments, including houses under construction or renovation, commercial and industrial projects, infrastructure projects, and plants that pre-fabricate buildings. They must be prepared to work in a variety of working environments.

Safety is of prime importance to all carpenters. In addition to typical risks of injury resulting from slips and falls, falling objects and the use of hand and power tools, carpenters must be aware of constantly changing work surroundings to mitigate the chance of injury to themselves and others. The proper use of personal protective equipment and related training is very important to carpenters regardless of their location of work. Risk/hazard assessments prior to performing tasks are necessary and important.

Required Skills

Some important competencies of a carpenter are good knowledge of mathematics, the ability to use metric and imperial measurements, an understanding of building science, communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Other skills present in a competent carpenter are the ability to work at heights, the ability to stand or kneel for long periods of time, manual dexterity and good balance. Carpentry is a physically demanding occupation requiring the lifting of heavy tools and materials.

Career Options

Experienced carpenters may advance to supervisory positions, or become independent contractors, due to their involvement in most aspects of building construction.

Current Trades

The carpenter trade is constantly evolving with advanced innovations and technology for increased accuracy and efficiency. There is an increase in the use of specialized power tools that are taking the place of some hand tools. Such tools as detail sanders, layout instruments and laser levels are making the carpenters’ work more accurate and efficient. Oscillating tools are becoming popular because they make accurate cuts and are extremely versatile. Compressed gas-powered fastening tools are increasing in use due to their portability and efficiency. Scissor lifts, rolling platforms and zoom booms are replacing scaffolding and ladders on many job sites.

Cordless tools are now commonplace and are improving in longevity, durability and torque. Lithium ion technology for cordless tools is becoming more common. Some concrete forming systems are now made of plastics, composites and aluminum, making concrete forming more versatile and efficient. New engineered forming systems such as insulated concrete forms (ICF) have emerged in the industry. Triple glazed windows and UV rated glass are becoming more popular due to thermal efficiency.

For ease of installation and pricing consideration, engineered hardwood and laminate flooring are increasing in popularity. Soundproofing systems are evolving with the introduction of sound transmission class (STC) assemblies including insulation products such as mineral wool insulation (Roxul®). Countertop materials have diversified with materials such as stone, composite stone and concrete. There are a number of “green building” certification systems becoming commonplace in the governmental and private construction industry. The use of these environmentally friendly systems can influence the selection of building materials and products and can include building techniques aimed at achieving increased energy-efficiency.

Low volatile organic compound (VOC) building products are increasingly being demanded by the public. Many companies in the construction industry are providing leadership in safety awareness and in the enforcement of safety policies on the job site. Safety training and the development of safety policies and procedures are being done by many companies in excess of regulations. The renovation sector is very active and condo development has increased.

Note: Before registering for any Red Seal Exam Preparation courses, please contact your local trades authority to confirm your eligibility to write the relevant Red Seal Exam.