Lathers

Lathers originally got their name from the original system for installing walls using strips of wood (lath) nailed to studs onto which plaster was trowelled. As materials changed they became known as Wall and Ceiling Installers, and in modern times, with the evolution of materials and systems, they are now known as Interior Systems Mechanics, though they still use their traditional name of Lather.

They play an important role in the construction industry, particularly in commercial, high-rise and residential buildings.  Interior Systems Mechanics install, handle, erect and apply materials that are component parts in the construction of ceilings and walls. They install support frameworks for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls and building partitions. They also apply drywall or plaster for walls and ceilings, including assembling steel studs for curtain walls, performing acoustical installations, and installing shielded walls. They are designated as Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic) under the Inter-provincial Red Seal program.