Scope

The occupational title "Plumber" defines persons having the knowledge, training and abilities to install, repair and maintain a variety of piping systems, plumbing fixtures and other equipment generally associated with, but not limited to, water distribution and wastewater disposal.

People in this occupational group are employed by maintenance departments of manufacturing, commercial, health care and educational facilities, by plumbing contractors, by plumbing service companies or they may be self-employed. They may specialize in the installation of piping systems in a wide variety of settings, such as residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings, as well as in the repair and maintenance of existing systems.

In the accomplishment of their job functions, plumbers may perform all or some of the following duties: installation of drainage, waste, vent piping and private sewage disposal systems, installation of water distribution systems, plumbing fixtures and appliances, installation of hydronic heating and cooling systems, installation of natural and liquefied petroleum systems, inspection, maintenance and repairs of plumbing systems and installation of specialized piping systems. In some jurisdictions, other trades perform the installation and maintenance of hydronic heating and cooling systems. Similarly, some jurisdictions have enacted specific legislations requiring additional certification for the installation of natural and liquified petroleum gas systems and private sewage disposal and septic systems.

To perform their job duties effectively and efficiently, plumbers need to know all applicable codes, regulations and laws and of a wide variety of piping systems and plumbing components. Plumbers must have the ability to properly operate hand and power tools and related equipment as well as the ability to determine the appropriate and safest means of performing their tasks. Plumbers also need to possess good mechanical, mathematical and space visualization skills. Because of their interactions with co-workers, clients and other trades people, they also need good interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate in both oral and written forms.

There are certain piping trade skills that are common to plumbers, gas fitters, steamfitters pipefitters and sprinkler system installers.

Observations

The plumbing occupation continues to provide a vital service in the Canadian economy. Efficient and effective plumbing systems are a fundamental element of a healthy and environmentally safe society. Plumbers, with their knowledge and skill, are the critical tradespeople who design, install and service the requirements of these systems.

The fundamentals of plumbing remain constant. Plumbers install, maintain and repair piping systems using a core set of skills and knowledge. However, the nature of the plumbing occupation is changing. Advances in the National Plumbing Code are increasingly modifying procedures for the installation of piping systems. These advances are the result of an increased emphasis on worker health and safety, a greater priority attributed to environmental protection, and the necessity for ensuring reliable and efficient distribution systems.

Advances in technology are also having a significant impact on trade procedures. The advent of electronics has resulted in changes to the tools and equipment required in the trade. Increasingly, computer applications are being utilized for system design, layout operation and project management. New techniques are being utilized to install sophisticated systems and fixtures required by the Canadian consumers. Advances in technology are also changing the design, applications and materials of plumbing systems for water supply, drainage, waste and venting, gas fitting and hydronic heating/cooling.

The principles of efficiency and effectiveness continue to dominate piping system design and installation. Increased competition and decreased room for error have resulted in the need for plumbers to increase their skill levels in order to complete the job at increasing levels of perfection. The introduction of high energy conservation fixtures and systems also has increased the required skill and knowledge level of plumbers.

Plumbers’ responsibilities are also evolving. Today, there is a trend toward increased trade pride and ethics in all aspects of work from customer service to the training of new apprentices. On the job, plumbers are now expected to recognize and deal safely with a wide variety of hazards. New designs and materials are increasingly requiring plumbers to maintain their focus on a continued commitment to the trade through specialized training and certification.

Finally, as Canadian society evolves to reflect the underlying transformation to the new economy, the plumbing occupation also reacts to reflect those changes in plumbing systems and technology. These major shifts have opened up new opportunities and challenges for plumbers in their efforts to keep current with the new developments in one of the world’s oldest trades.

Safety

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers and employees. It is imperative that all parties become aware of circumstances that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is generally recognized that safety-conscious attitudes and work practices contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free working environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Workplace Safety and Health Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations. As well, it is essential to determine workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public and the environment.

As safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions, personal safety practices are not recorded in this document. However, the technical safety aspect relating to each task and sub-task are included throughout this analysis.

Job Titles