Sprinkler Fitter Apprentice Training
Live Virtual Instruction Program Level 1
Member Pricing
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION
$2,425
$425 enrollment fee plus $2,000 tuition
per level
Available until Jan. 25.
Nonmember Price $3,225
REGULAR REGISTRATION
$2,475
$475 enrollment fee plus $2,000 tuition
per level
Jan. 26 – Feb. 22.
Nonmember Price $3,275
LATE REGISTRATION
$2,600
$600 enrollment fee plus $2,000 tuition
per level
After Feb. 22, 2024
Nonmember Price $3,400
Non-Member tuition is $2,800 per course. The enrollment Fee Includes all materials and proctored online testing.
Overview
AFSA now offers a virtual instruction program (VIP) for the apprentice curriculum. The Sprinkler Fitting curriculum is now in its 4th edition. This version correlates with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2019 edition. These textbook materials are produced through a partnership between AFSA and NCCER.
Each level provides ten months of education to accompany the On-The-Job Learning (OJL) conducted by the employer. The education includes the Sprinkler Fitting textbooks, two live monthly sessions, performance tasks to reinforce the modules, self-study components, and assessments.
The live lessons are instructed by AFSA staff and subject matter experts. Each session will run for 2 hours and includes time for discussion. Lessons will be delivered twice each scheduled day to accommodate multiple time zones. A calendar will be provided with registration that contains specific dates. Participants are required to attend the live sessions.
Performance tasks are the execution of items that correspond to the lesson. This reinforcement increases the learning and retention of participants. The tasks are verified by the supervisor (employer) designated during VIP registration. These tasks must be finished to complete the level.
During the self-study portion, the apprentice is expected to read the accompanying sections that support the lesson and review any add-on resources, such as videos or articles that have been provided. The text provides questions with each module to help guide the apprentice and ensure key concepts are absorbed.
Also included are assessments via the learning management system. For Level 1 and Level 2, there will be one exam per module. For Levels 3 and 4, the number of assessments will be reduced from those corresponding to the 3rd edition of the textbooks, but for subjects that warrant it, there may be more than one exam per module. In addition, the testing will be virtually proctored, which adds strength to the quality of the education program.
VIP Live Training Schedule Level 1 - 2024
| Lesson | Related Module# | Subjects | Performance Tasks | Time (min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 00100 18101 00101 | Course Introduction and Basic Safety: • Future with construction industry • Introduction to the fire sprinkler industry • Benefits of safety and reducing hazards | Course Introduction: No task for this lesson | 120 |
| 2 | 00101 | Basic Safety: • Importance of safety • Common construction hazards • Best practices for safety | Basic Safety: • Properly set up and climb/descend an extension ladder • Inspect PPE items and determine if they are safe to use • Properly don, fit, and remove PPE items • Inspect a typical power cord and GFCI to ensure their serviceability | 120 |
| 3 | 00102 | Construction Math: • Whole and fractional numbers • Tools for measuring lengths • Units | Construction Math: • Using a measuring tape in both English and metric units: o Measure lumber pieces o Measure a room-sized space o Determine a short inside measurement • Add English measurements that include fractions | 120 |
| 4 | 00103 | Hand Tools: • Introduction to common manual construction tools • Review of manual tools most common for sprinkler fitters | Hand Tools: • Inspect and demonstrate safe and proper use of the following hand tools: o Hammers, demolition tools, chisels and punches, screwdrivers, adjustable wrenches, non-adjustable wrenches, etc. | 120 |
| 5 | 00104 | Power Tools: • Drills, wrenches, and saws • Tools best suited for different tasks | Power Tools: • Demonstrate the use of the following tools: o Electric drill, hammer drill, circular saw, jigsaw, reciprocating saw, portable band saw, etc. | 120 |
| Supervisor Performance Task Log Due Lessons 1-5 | ||||
| 6 | 00105 | Construction Drawings: • Different types of drawings • Scales, symbols, and elements | Construction Drawings: • Using the provided plans: o Locate the noted items o Measure the specific rooms and features o Use an architect’s scale | 120 |
| 7 | 00106 | Rigging and Material Handling: • Use of rigging equipment • Safety precautions for material handling • Review equipment for material handling | Basic Rigging: • Demonstrate the proper ASME Emergency Stop hand signal. • Demonstrate the ability to report the load capacity of a sling, and if the sling is too damaged to use. | 120 |
| 8 | 00107 00108 | Communication and Employability Skills • Improve communication skills • Using critical thinking | Communication and Employability Skills • Perform a given task following oral instructions. • Fill out a work-related form provided by the instructor. • Read and interpret a set of instructions for properly donning a safety harness and then instruct another person on how to don the harness. | 120 |
| 9 | 18109 | Material Handling: • Safety precautions for material handling • Review equipment for material handling | Material Handling: • Demonstrate safe manual lifting techniques. • Demonstrate how to tie two of the following common knots: square, bowline, half hitch, or clove hitch. | 120 |
| 10 | 18101 | The Sprinkler Industry • Occupational overview • Begin identification of sprinklers and systems • Apprenticeship requirements | The Sprinkler Industry No tasks for this lesson. | 120 |
| Supervisor Performance Task Log Due – Lessons 6-10 | ||||
| 11 | 18102 | Components and Systems • Valves for fire sprinkler systems • Introduction to fire pumps | Components and Systems No tasks for this lesson. | 120 |
| 12 | 18102 | Components and Systems • Valves for fire sprinkler systems • Introduction to fire pumps | Components and Systems No tasks for this lesson. | 120 |
| 13 | 18103 | Steel Pipe • Identify different steel pipes and their standards • Methods of joining | Steel Pipe • Identify different steel pipes and applications • Cut and ream pipe. • Groove pipe and install grooved fittings. | 120 |
| 14 | 18103 | Steel Pipe • Details of flanged and plain-end fittings • Reviewing applications | Steel Pipe • Thread pipe and install threaded fittings. • Install flanged fittings. | 120 |
| 15 | 18104 | CPVC Pipe • Characteristics of CPVC • Joining methods | CPVC Pipe • Characteristics of CPVC • Joining methods | 120 |
| Supervisor Performance Task Log Due – Lessons 11-15 | ||||
| 16 | 18105 | Copper Tube • Identify different copper tubes and their standards • Methods of joining | Copper Tube • Identify different copper tubes and their standards • Methods of joining | 120 |
| 17 | 18103 18104 18105 | Piping • Reinforcement and comparison of piping materials • Uses for different materials | Piping • Reinforcement and comparison of piping materials • Uses for different materials | 120 |
| 18 | 18102 00105 | Components and Drawings • Reinforcement and connection for system components and drawing | Components and Drawings • Reinforcement and connection for system components and drawing | 120 |
| 19 | 18106 | Underground Pipe • Safety guidelines • Piping and components | Underground Pipe • Safety guidelines • Piping and components | 120 |
| 20 | 18106 | Underground Pipe • Support and restraining systems • Trenches • Testing requirements | Underground Pipe • Support and restraining systems • Trenches • Testing requirements | 120 |
| Supervisor Performance Task Log Due – Lessons 16-20 |
Curriculum
Level 1
This level comprises Core: Introduction to Basic Construction Skills, 6th Edition, and Sprinkler Fitting: Level 1, 4th Edition. The course is divided into modules. The subjects and their learning objectives are found below.
16 Modules
Upon completion of Level 1, the trainee will be awarded 15.5 CEUs (155 Credit Hours).
Module 00100 Build Your Future in Construction (2.5 hours)
- Describe the construction industry.
- Explain the benefits of a construction career.
- Describe the typical career path for craft professionals.
- Identify ways to pursue a career in the construction industry.
Module 00101 Basic Safety (12.5 hours)
- Explain the benefits of safety, the cost of workplace incidents, and ways to reduce related hazards.
- Describe common fall hazards and methods to prevent them.
- Recognize and avoid struck-by and caught-in-between hazards.
- Identify common electrical hazards and how to avoid them.
- Associate personal protective equipment (PPE) with the hazards they reduce or eliminate.
- Describe safety practices used with other common job-site hazards.
Module 00102 Introduction to Construction Math (10 hours)
- Identify whole numbers and solve basic arithmetic problems with them.
- Name fraction types and calculate with fractions.
- Identify decimal numbers and calculate with them.
- Name the common length-measuring tools and use them to measure lengths accurately.
- Name common length, weight, volume, and temperature units in both the inch-pound and metric systems and convert them into other comparable units.
- Classify angles and geometric shapes, as well as calculate their areas or volumes.
Module 00103 Introduction to Hand Tools (12.5 hours)
- Name common hand tools and state how to use them.
- Identify common measurement and layout tools and describe how to use them.
- Identify and describe other hand tools common to shops and job sites.
Module 00104 Introduction to Power Tools (10 hours)
- Identify and explain how to use various types of power drills and impact wrenches.
- Identify and explain how to use various types of power saws.
- Describe the types of jobs best suited to grinders and oscillating multi-tools.
- Identify and explain how to use miscellaneous power tools.
Module 00105 Introduction to Construction Drawings (10 hours)
- Describe components and features used in construction drawings and identify how the drawings are different.
Module 00106 Introduction to Basic Rigging (7.5 hours)
- Identify and describe various types of rigging slings, hardware, and equipment.
Module 00107 Basic Communication Skills (7.5 hours)
- Describe the communication, listening, and speaking processes and their relationship to job performance.
- Describe good reading and writing skills and their relationship to job performance.
Module 00108 Basic Employability Skills (7.5 hours)
- Describe the opportunities in the construction businesses and how to enter the construction workforce.
- Explain the importance of critical thinking and how to solve problems.
- Explain the importance of social skills and identify ways good social skills are applied in the construction trade.
Module 00109 Introduction to Material Handling (5 hours)
- Identify the basic concepts of material handling and common safety precautions.
- Identify various types of material handling equipment and describe how they are used.
Module 18101 Occupational Overview: The Sprinkler Industry (5 hours)
- Identify the various types of sprinkler systems and the tools used to install them.
- Identify the codes and standards applicable to sprinkler systems.
- Understand the apprenticeship training process for sprinkler fitters.
Module 18102 Introduction to Components and Systems (10 hours)
- Identify the operation of the four main types of sprinkler systems.
- Identify the nationally recognized testing laboratories used to evaluate sprinkler system components.
- Identify common sprinklers and their operating characteristics.
- Identify different types of piping, valves, and fire pumps.
Module 18103 Steel Pipe and Fittings (20 hours)
- Size and select steel pipe.
- Prepare pipe for fittings.
- Groove pipe and install grooved fittings.
- Thread pipe and install threaded fittings.
- Select and install flanged fittings.
- Identify the applications of plain-end pipe fittings.
Module 18104 CPVC Pipe and Fittings (12.5 hours)
- Size and select chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe.
- Cut and join CPVC.
- Install and test CPVC sprinkler systems.
Module 18105 Copper Tubing and Fittings (10 hours)
- Size and select copper tubing and fittings.
- Describe the process for soldering copper tubing.
- Describe the process for brazing copper tubing.
- Identify mechanical connection methods for copper tubing.
Module 18106 Underground Pipe (12.5 hours)
- Describe underground piping systems and their components.
- Identify trench safety requirements.
- Describe the installation of underground piping systems.
Level 2
This level is comprised of Sprinkler Fitting: Level 2, 4th Edition. The course is divided into modules. The subjects and their learning objectives are found below.
7 Modules
Upon completing Level 2, the trainee will be awarded 15.25 CEUs (152.5 Credit Hours).
Module 18201 Hangers, Supports, and Restraints (17.5 hours)
- Select and install pipe hanger assemblies.
- Install seismic bracing.
- Identify firestopping assemblies.
Module 18202 General Purpose Valves (15 hours)
- Identify the function and operation of the indicating control valves used in sprinkler systems.
- Identify the function and operation of the trim valves used in sprinkler systems.
- Identify the function and operation of the supply system valves used in sprinkler systems.
- Identify the function and operation of the pressure control and air venting valves used in sprinkler systems.
Module 18203 Math for Sprinkler Fitters (20 hours)
- Use basic math operations to solve problems.
- Demonstrate practical calculations related to sprinkler systems.
Module 18204 Shop Drawings (30 hours)
- Identify the types of drawings used in sprinkler system installation.
- Identify common symbols used in sprinkler system shop drawings.
- Identify the advantages of Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Module 18205 Standard Spray Sprinklers (20 hours)
- Identify the characteristics of standard spray sprinklers.
- Identify NFPA 13 occupancy classifications.
- Identify the types of construction.
- Describe the installation considerations for standard spray sprinklers.
Module 18206 Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems (25 hours)
- Identify the function and operation of wet pipe sprinkler system control valves.
- Identify the types of switches used in wet pipe sprinkler systems.
- Describe how to test and troubleshoot wet pipe sprinkler systems.
Module 18207 Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems (25 hours)
- Identify the function and operation of dry pipe sprinkler system valves.
- Make calculations for installing piping at the correct pitch to drains.
- Describe the air sources and air maintenance devices used in dry pipe sprinkler systems.
- Describe how to test and troubleshoot dry pipe sprinkler systems.
Level 3
This level is comprised of Sprinkler Fitting: Level 3, 4th Edition. The course is divided into modules. The subjects and their learning objectives are found below.
5 Modules
Upon completion of Level 3, the trainee will be awarded 15 CEUs (150 Credit Hours).
Module 18301 Deluge and Preaction Sprinkler Systems (35 hours)
- Identify the function and operation of various deluge sprinkler system components.
- Identify the function and operation of various preaction systems.
- Describe how to test and troubleshoot deluge and preaction sprinkler systems.
Module 18302 Standpipes (25 hours)
- Identify the different classifications of standpipes.
- Identify standpipe system components and describe their installation requirements.
- Explain the requirements for acceptance testing of standpipe systems.
Module 18303 Water Supplies (15 hours)
- Identify the properties of water.
- Identify the water supplies that serve fire protection systems.
- Describe the purpose of fire hydrant water flow testing.
Module 18304 Fire Pump Systems (35 hours)
- Identify fire pumps and drivers and describe how they are installed.
- Identify the installation requirements for fire pump piping and related components.
- Identify the function and operation of various fire pump system controllers.
- Describe the procedures for performing mechanical checks and acceptance tests.
Module 18305 Application Specific and Special Sprinklers (40 hours)
- Identify the characteristics of application-specific sprinklers.
- Identify the characteristics of special sprinklers.
Level 4
This level is comprised of Sprinkler Fitting: Level 4, 4th Edition. The course is divided into modules. The subjects and their learning objectives are found below.
5 Modules
Upon completion of Level 4, the trainee will be awarded 14.5 CEUs (145 Credit Hours).
Module 18401 System Layout (27.5 hours)
- Identify system types and characteristics.
- Describe the procedure for completing a basic system layout.
- Explain the relationship between flow characteristics and pressure loss.
Module 18402 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance (37.5 hours)
- Identify the inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements for sprinkler, standpipe, hose, and fire pump systems.
- Identify the inspection requirements for other systems (water storage, private fire service mains).
- Describe basic inspection requirements for water spray, foam-water, and water mist systems.
Module 18403 Special Extinguishing Systems (27.5 hours)
- Describe the operation and applications of water spray systems, water mist systems, foam systems, and carbon dioxide (CO2) systems.
- Identify the clean agents used as replacements for ozone-depleting agents.
Module 46101 Fundamentals of Crew Leadership (22.5 hours)
- Describe current issues and organizational structures in the industry today.
- Explain how to incorporate leadership skills into work habits, including communication, motivation, team-building, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Identify a crew leader’s typical safety responsibilities with respect to common safety issues, including awareness of safety regulations and the cost of accidents.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of the planning process, scheduling, and cost and resource control.
Module 18405 Procedures and Documentation (30 hours)
- Identify documents required on a typical project.
- Describe the policies and procedures related to job site safety.
- Explain the procedures for responding to water damage.