FAQ
Are all workers required to wear safety boots?
Yes. All individuals who work on a construction site must wear approved safety boots/shoes in accordance with the Ontario Health & Safety laws.
As a member of the Union, am I permitted to work for non-union contractors?
Although not a common situation, the answer is yes. The only conditions are:
Does IUPAT help me find a job?
IUPAT has approximately 600 contractors in the various trades throughout Ontario. The Union acts as a referral for members once an employer requires people with the skills to fill the employers’ needs. Most Locals require their members to call weekly and put their name on an out-of-work list and as the employer calls for workers, we send the person with the employers’ requirements to that contractor.
Other circumstances may include a hiring hall procedure in some locations in the province or members may canvass our contractors for employment. The Union only requests that in the event a member does find employment, that the Union is contacted and a referral slip will be sent to the contractor outlining the worker’s wages.
Does the IUPAT represent workers outside of construction?
Absolutely! District Council 46 and some of the other Locals in Ontario represent workers in the manufacturing facilities of windows, doors, signs, bus shelters, moulding manufacturers, billboards, auto dealerships, industrial waste facilities, and health care workers, just to name a few.
What other organizations does District Council 46 belong to?
There are so many other organizations we are affiliated with. Visit the following sites for more information:
How do I become an apprentice in one of the IUPAT trades?
It’s very easy! Visit your nearest office for the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities (MTCU), and request information on the trades. The Ministry will outline your options and requirements. Or, call one of the IUPAT training facilities for more information. IFSTC offers apprenticeship training for drywall finishers, EIFS/stucco workers, and hazmat technicians. FTI offers apprenticeship training for painters and glaziers.
What is required of me to become a member of the IUPAT?
Our reputation as a trade Union is to provide our contractors with the best qualified workers in the industry. We request that you are a registered apprentice or the holder of a qualified journeyperson certificate issued by MTCU. However, we encourage all workers to call us to learn about one of our trades and become a member.
What if I do not have a certificate of qualification?
You have a couple of options.
How much does it cost to join IUPAT?
Absolutely nothing! An administrative processing fee is applied that will also pay for your monthly dues up to 6 months in advance that is tax deductible at the end of the year. Following the administration fee, there is a monthly dues collection that maintains your membership. Call your Local Union office near you for details. Remember, all payments are tax deductible!
What benefits do I receive upon joining IUPAT?
Joining the Union provides many benefits for you and your family. Our goal is to provide our members with good wages and benefits in a competitive industry to accommodate a higher standard of living that is deserved by all Canadians. As a member of the Union, you are able to take advantage of medical, dental, prescriptions, life insurance, pension at retirement, training at no cost, workplace safety, and protection on the job.
Does IUPAT allow women into the union?
Most definitely! We welcome women into the trades we represent and there are numerous success stories of women in all of our trades.
Does IUPAT accommodate immigrant workers?
Yes it does! District Council 46, Toronto has representatives that speak the following languages; Spanish, Croatian, Greek, Turkish, Italian, Portuguese, French, Polish and others. If you require immigration legal services, we are able to refer you to a reputable legal counsel. All inquiries are confidential!
Whether you have questions or need support, IUPAT members are never on their own. Our team is here to help you navigate your career, access resources, and make the most of your membership because in IUPAT, we stand together as one union, one family, one fight.
Reaching out is the first step! If you have questions about joining, training, or advancing your career in the trades, we are here to help every step of the way. Our team can guide you through the available opportunities, from apprenticeships to ongoing training and career growth.
By reaching out to us today, you are well on your journey toward building a successful career and a solid future with IUPAT.
