Keevitajate

Keevitajate is the genitive plural form of the Estonian noun keevitaja, meaning welder. It is used to indicate possession or association with welders, for example in phrases such as keevitajate töö (“the welders’ work”) or keevitajate koolitus (“the welders’ training”).

Linguistic notes: keevitaja is an agent noun derived from the verb keevitada (to weld) with the agent suffix -ja. The nominative plural is keevitajad, while the genitive plural is keevitajate. The genitive plural form is used when linking the welders to a related noun, typically to express possession, relation, or attribution.

Industry and profession: Welders (keevitajad) are skilled tradespeople who join metal parts using welding processes such as shielded metal arc welding, TIG, and MIG. Their work often involves reading technical drawings, preparing joints, selecting appropriate materials and electrodes, executing welds, and inspecting weld quality. They may work in manufacturing plants, construction sites, shipyards, or repair shops, and can specialize in areas such as structural, pipe, or fabrication welding.

Safety and training: Welding involves risks such as burns, ultraviolet exposure, fumes, and electrical hazards. Protective equipment (helmet, gloves, fire-resistant clothing, and proper ventilation) is essential. Training typically includes vocational education or apprenticeships, followed by on-the-job experience and certification of welding skills or procedures, depending on national requirements. In Estonia, keevitajate training is commonly offered through vocational schools and industry programs, aligning with national safety and quality standards.

Usage in Estonian texts: keevitajate appears mainly in Estonian-language articles, technical documents, and employment materials to refer to welders as a group or to their work. In English translations, the term corresponds to “the welders’” or “of the welders.”