What Do Plumbers
As plumbers, we are responsible for the installation, repair and maintenance of many gas and water systems that are used in residential and commercial properties. This includes toilets, showers, hot water systems, kitchen appliances and more.
The work can be very varied, and plumbers need a number of different skills to complete their job duties. For example, a plumber may need to be familiar with construction practices and building codes, as well as plumbing math in order to correctly install pipes and fixtures. Additionally, plumbers must be able to use a variety of tools and equipment, including power and hand tools, to complete their tasks.
Depending on the nature of the work, plumbers can also be required to take part in emergency call outs, which can involve working outside normal business hours or even at weekends. In these cases, the plumber needs to be able to assess the situation quickly and determine what steps are needed to resolve the issue. This can include using specialist drain cameras, which can provide a detailed view of the inside of a pipe or sewer system to identify problems that would otherwise be difficult to see without the aid of specialised equipment.
What Do Plumbers Do?
In addition to these more technical aspects of the role, plumbers are also often required to perform customer service tasks, such as informing customers about costs and processes involved in repairs and installations. Additionally, plumbers may be responsible for managing other plumbers or tradespeople on a project, so organisational skills are important for this position.
Most plumbers will undergo a formal apprenticeship to become qualified in the field. This typically involves both classroom study and on-the-job training under the supervision of a journeyperson, with wages increasing over time to reflect experience and expertise gained. Plumbers are required to have a license in most states and territories in order to work independently.
Some plumbers specialise in certain areas of the industry, such as bathroom renovations or hot water system installations. Others focus on maintaining and repairing existing systems. In these roles, the work can be very varied and include fitting new appliances, such as washing machines or dishwashers, or replacing old parts to make sure they are up to date and functioning properly.
In more complex plumbing jobs, the responsibilities can also encompass inspecting and testing water and gas systems to ensure they are safe and functioning as intended. This can include examining water pressure, checking for leaks, testing backflow prevention devices and completing other tests as required by local regulations. Plumbers can also be required to complete large-scale projects, such as installing water supply lines or fire sprinkler systems in office buildings, hospitals, retail stores or industrial facilities.
The majority of plumbers work full-time, and may be required to travel between different job sites. They are exposed to physical risks, such as exposure to dust or chemicals, and may be required to work in cramped or confined spaces. They can also be exposed to electrical hazards, especially when working on older systems.