Plumber Trade Skills

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Common Occupational Skills

Plans work activities.

Interprets drawings and specifications.

knowledge of all applicable plumbing codes and regulations
knowledge of piping systems
ability to read, analyze and interpret architectural, mechanical, shop, vendor and structural drawings
ability to identify piping systems
ability to identify interference
ability to prepare isometric, sleeving and rough in sketches
ability to lay out sleeving template

Prepares list of materials.

knowledge of various types of plumbing systems, materials, components and parts
knowledge of codes and regulations
ability to determine material requirements
ability to interpret codes and regulations

Schedules job.

knowledge of safe work practices
knowledge of applicable codes and regulations
knowledge of job scheduling and work flow
ability to plan work activities to ensure a safe, logical sequence of operations
ability to schedule tools, equipment and material usage

Prepares job site.

knowledge of job or site specifications
knowledge of administrative requirements
knowledge of material storage specifics
knowledge of job site safety requirements
ability to apply safety requirements
ability to prepare site offices
ability to store materials
ability to demonstrate positive work ethic

Provides customer service.

knowledge of company policies
knowledge of products
ability to communicate with customer to explain problems
ability to diagnose and stabilize situation
ability to present alternative solutions to customer
ability to clean up job site
ability to prepare service report

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Uses and maintains hand and portable power tools and equipment.

Uses hand and portable

knowledge of common hand and portable power tools and equipment and their applications
knowledge of required certification
ability to select appropriate tools
ability to use hand and power tools safely
ability to select and use rigging and hoisting equipment
ability to make hand signals when hoisting loads
ability to use telephone, cellular phone, fax machine and walkie-talkies
ability to send and receive email
ability to use the computer and associated software

Maintains hand and portable power tools and equipment.

knowledge of common hand and portable power tools and equipment
knowledge of preventive maintenance
knowledge of care and upkeep
ability to perform minor repairs to tools
ability to maintain hosting and rigging equipment
ability to maintain and operate specialty tools and equipment

Prepares piping for installation.

Cuts pipes.

knowledge of pipe types, qualities and pressure ratings
knowledge of pipe applications
knowledge of cutting equipment
knowledge of jointing methods
ability to cut pipes according to joining method to be used

Prepares pipe joints.

knowledge of threading tools and equipment
knowledge of lubricants
knowledge of grooving tools and equipment
knowledge of welding procedures
knowledge of brazing and soldering procedures
knowledge of flaring equipment
knowledge of compression joints
knowledge of glass piping joint preparation
ability to thread pipe
ability to groove pipe
ability to check groove depth
ability to braze or solder pipes
ability to perform leak test
ability to perform flare connections
ability to perform compression connections
ability to install different types of connections in common use
ability to prepare butt fusion, socket fusion, crimping, solvent weld, press fit, mechanical joints and fusion seals
ability to crimp using various methods

Bends pipe and tubing.

knowledge of pipe and tubing bending equipment
knowledge of pipe and tubing characteristics
ability to make templates
ability to bend pipe and tubing
ability to use pipe and tubing bending equipment

Installs support systems.

Selects systems.

knowledge of codes and regulations
knowledge of hangers and support systems
ability to select hangers, support systems and materials

Prepares support systems.

knowledge of hangers, support systems and materials
ability to prepare hangers and support systems

Installs support systems.

knowledge of manufacturers’ requirements
knowledge of hanger and support systems
ability to fabricate hangers and supports
ability to install hangers and supports

Tests piping, plumbing systems and equipment.

Determines testing requirements.

knowledge of testing procedures, safety precautions and certification requirements
knowledge of applicable codes and regulations
ability to perform equipment start-up procedures
ability to determine type of tests required

Prepares systems and equipment for testing.

knowledge of required tests
knowledge of testing equipment
knowledge of testing procedures
ability to prepare systems and equipment for testing

Performs required tests.

knowledge of the dangers involved in testing
knowledge of acceptable pressure testing and electrical control test procedures
ability to test to applicable standards
ability to test drainage, waste, vents and private sewage disposal systems
ability to test specialized piping systems
ability to test crossconnection control
ability to test pumps
ability to test maintenance and repair work when completed
ability to adjust/service systems
ability to flush and disinfect systems
ability to treat water quality
ability to document and interpret test results
ability to produce as-built record of installation
ability to arrange for inspection

Supervises excavation and backfilling of trenches.

Arranges for inspection.

knowledge of applicable codes and regulations
ability to identify appropriate authorities for inspection
ability to determine routes, grade and elevation

Supervises backfilling of excavations and trenches.

knowledge of proper backfilling materials and procedures
ability to supervise backfilling

Protects piping systems and other plumbing equipment from damage.

Protects piping systems and plumbing equipment from environmental conditions.

knowledge of frost protection
knowledge of ultraviolet ray protection
knowledge of circulation pumps
knowledge of heat tapes
knowledge of temperature control
knowledge of piping systems and other plumbing equipment
ability to install corrosion protection
ability to protect piping systems and plumbing equipment

Protects piping systems and plumbing equipment from physical damage.

knowledge of common practices for protecting piping systems and plumbing equipment
ability to assess needs for protection

Installs fire stopping systems.

Determines fire stopping requirements.

knowledge of applicable codes and requirements
knowledge of different manufacturers’ products
ability to determine need for fire stopping requirements

Fits fire stopping systems.

knowledge of fire stopping systems
ability to determine acceptable application of fire stopping systems
ability to install fire stopping systems according to specifications

Acts as mentor to apprentices.

Provides workplace orientation training.

knowledge of safety rules and regulations
knowledge of the apprenticeship roles and responsibilities
ability to provide workplace orientation training
ability to provide a positive role model
ability to reinforce work ethic
ability to instill quality of work

Trains apprentices in plumbing installation.

knowledge of trade theory and practices
knowledge of on-the-job training principles and techniques
ability to provide on-the-job training

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Drainage, Waste, Vents And Private Sewage Disposal Systems

Installs site services.

Installs access holes and catch basins.

knowledge of hoisting and rigging
knowledge of piping connections
ability to install access holes and catch basins

Installs piping for site services.

knowledge of DWV (drainage, waste and vent) piping system, pipe types, qualities and pressure ratings
knowledge of pipe joining and installation methods for underground piping
knowledge of piping system layout
knowledge of grade requirements
knowledge of forced sewer mains (lift station)
ability to determine DWV pipe size based on load of vent and drain pipes, using tables and other methods
ability to determine vent and drain sizes
ability to select and install DWV piping system
ability to use building or laser level to determine grade and rim elevation

Installs private sewage systems.

Plans installation of private sewage disposal systems.

knowledge of private sewage disposal systems
knowledge of interrelated topographical factors, such as property level, size and soil type
knowledge of sewage disposal influences on the environment
knowledge of environmental codes and regulations
ability to obtain approval from governing authority
ability to determine if service location, fixtures and water supply are within plumbing codes and municipal by-laws for private sewage disposal
ability to determine maximum expected load
ability to size septic tank, holding tank and effluent chamber
ability to determine effluent disposal system

Installs private sewage disposal systems.

knowledge of tanks and piping system components and parts
knowledge of disposal fields
knowledge of pumps and specialties
ability to install tank and piping systems
ability to install disposal system
ability to install pumps and specialties
ability to arrange for inspection

Prepares rough-in for buried interior drainage, waste and vent systems.

Installs buried piping for drainage, waste and vent systems.

knowledge of trench safety
knowledge of DWV piping system design and layout procedures
knowledge of rough-in dimensions for fixtures
knowledge of backwater valve application and installation
ability to determine underground pipe size, grade, material, elevation and routing
ability to lay out and establish grid lines
ability to install union, check and isolation valves for pumped sumps
ability to perform trench work safely

Installs embedded components.

knowledge of requirements for access points
ability to locate access points
ability to locate and install floor drains, cleanouts, grease and oil interceptors and sediment

Installs rough-in for interior drainage, waste and vent systems above grade.

Prepares pipe routes for interior drainage, waste and vent systems.

knowledge of procedure for determining pipe sizes using hydraulic load calculations and sizing tables
knowledge of DWV above-grade system types, their layout and material selection
knowledge of fire separation principles
ability to use leveling devices
ability to cut or core concrete, wood, masonry and steel
ability to recognize interference with other trades’ equipment
ability to select pipe sleeves
ability to install sleeves

Installs piping for interior drainage, waste and vent systems above ground.

knowledge of pipe hangers and supports
knowledge of concealed fixture, carrier or support types and their applications
knowledge of DWV piping system installation principles and methods
knowledge of joining and fitting methods
ability to determine DWV pipe size, routing and elevation
ability to install pipe hangers and supports
ability to install concealed fixtures, carriers and supports
ability to install pipes
ability to install pipe sleeves

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Water Service And Distribution, Plumbing Fixtures And Appliances

Installs water services.

Installs piping and related components for water services.

knowledge of backflow preventer requirements
ability to determine water pressure, water demand, piping length and size, and material
ability to install piping system to specifications
ability to install frost protection
ability to install thrust block

Installs water service equipment.

knowledge of equipment related to water services
ability to install frost protection, thrust blocking, hydrants, valves and other related water service equipment
ability to connect plumbing system to water supply

Installs water distribution systems.

Prepares routes for water distribution systems.

knowledge of building system components
knowledge of water distribution system routes and elevation specifications
ability to coordinate routes and elevations with other building components
ability to install hangers and supports

Installs piping for potable water distribution systems.

knowledge of applicable codes
knowledge of system requirements
ability to determine water pressure, water demand, pipe length and size, and material
ability to install piping
ability to flush piping system

Installs potable water distribution equipment.

knowledge of water meter equipment
knowledge of water conditioning equipment
knowledge of pressure system equipment
knowledge of domestic hot water heating equipment
knowledge of crossconnection/backflow prevention devices
knowledge of specialty equipment
ability to install water meter station
ability to install water conditioning devices, water storage and pressurizing systems, water heaters and specialty equipment
ability to install crossconnection/backflow prevention devices

Installs water treatment equipment.

Tests water quality.

knowledge of location of water testing facilities
ability to draw off a sample

Selects water treatment equipment.

knowledge of water quality standard
knowledge of corrective treatment procedures
ability to select appropriate equipment

Installs water treatment equipment.

knowledge of installation requirements for water treatment equipment
ability to install water treatment equipment

Installs plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Installs fixture supports.

knowledge of fixture support types and location
ability to prepare rough-in to accept fixtures

Installs plumbing fixtures.

knowledge of plumbing fixtures and installation techniques
ability to install fixtures and trim
ability to connect waste and water systems to fixtures

Installs specialty plumbing appliances.

knowledge of specialized appliances types
knowledge of installation techniques
ability to determine special tools and equipment requirements
ability to install specialized appliances and related trim
ability to connect waste and water systems for specialized appliances

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Hydronic Heating/cooling Systems

Installs hydronic heating/cooling piping systems.

Prepares routes for hydronic heating systems.

knowledge of routing requirements
ability to determine proper grading for venting and draining
ability to prepare piping routes

Installs piping for hydronic heating systems.

knowledge of hydronic piping systems
knowledge of pipe joining and installation methods to allow for expansion
knowledge of proper hoisting practices
ability to install pipes and related devices
ability to chemically clean and flush system
ability to balance system and components

Prepares routes for hydronic cooling systems.

knowledge of routing requirements
ability to determine proper grading for venting and draining
ability to prepare piping routes

Installs piping for hydronic cooling systems.

knowledge of hydronic piping systems
knowledge of pipe joining, expansion and installation methods
knowledge of proper hoisting practices
ability to install pipes and pumps

Installs hydronic heating/cooling generating equipment.

Determines location of hydronic heating generating equipment.

knowledge of equipment and necessary services
knowledge of access requirements for servicing equipment
ability to determine proper location

Installs hydronic heating generating equipment.

knowledge of hydronic systems
knowledge of initial start-up procedures
ability to determine installation requirements
ability to connect hangers and supports
ability to install hydronic heating generating equipment
ability to connect hydronic piping, flue piping and power supply
ability to perform initial start-up

Determines location of hydronic cooling generating equipment.

knowledge of equipment and necessary services
knowledge of access requirements for servicing equipment
ability to determine proper location

Installs hydronic cooling generating equipment.

knowledge of hydronic systems
ability to determine installation requirements
ability to connect hangers and supports
ability to install hydronic cooling generating equipment
ability to connect hydronic piping and power supply

Installs hydronic heating/cooling transfer units.

Determines location of heating transfer units.

knowledge of access and service requirements
ability to determine location of transfer units

Installs heating transfer units.

knowledge of hydronic systems
knowledge of transfer units
ability to install heating transfer units
ability to connect hydronic piping systems

Determines location of cooling transfer units.

knowledge of access and service requirements
ability to determine location of transfer units

Installs cooling transfer units.

knowledge of hydronic systems
knowledge of transfer units
ability to install cooling transfer units
ability to connect hydronic piping systems

Installs hydronic heating/cooling system controls.

Determines location of heating system controls.

knowledge of access and service requirements
knowledge of location for hydronic heating system and auxiliary devices
ability to determine location of control

Installs heating system controls.

knowledge of heating system controls
knowledge of environmental conditions
ability to install heating system controls
ability to protect controls from environmental conditions
ability to test hydronic heating systems and components
ability to maintain hydronic heating systems
ability to repair hydronic heating systems

Determines location of cooling system controls.

knowledge of access and service requirements
knowledge of location for hydronic cooling system and auxiliary devices
ability to determine location of control

Installs cooling system controls.

knowledge of cooling system controls
knowledge of environmental conditions
ability to install cooling system controls
ability to protect controls from environmental conditions
ability to test hydronic cooling systems and components
ability to maintain hydronic cooling systems
ability to repair hydronic cooling systems

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Specialized Piping Systems

Installs natural and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems.

Installs piping for natural gas systems.

knowledge of heating or cooling unit types and applications
knowledge of applicable codes
knowledge of gas service connection
knowledge of combustion air and appliance venting systems installation
ability to determine longest run, input capacity of gas-burning equipment, manifold and input pressure, materials, pipe size, routing, regulator requirements, combustion air and venting requirements and ensure code compliance
ability to install underground piping systems
ability to install corrosion protection
ability to coordinate with other underground services
ability to install above-ground piping systems
ability to cut and core concrete, wood, masonry and steel
ability to install sleeves, hangers and supports
ability to install piping systems and venting regulators
ability to install combustion air and appliance venting systems
ability to identify piping
ability to test natural gas systems

Installs piping for LPG systems.

knowledge of heating or cooling unit types and applications
knowledge of applicable codes
knowledge of LPG systems and component parts
knowledge of combustion air and appliance venting systems installation
ability to determine longest run, input capacity of gas burning equipment, manifold and input pressure, materials, pipe size, routing, regulator requirements, combustion air and venting requirements and ensure code compliance
ability to install underground piping systems
ability to install corrosion protection
ability to coordinate with other underground services
ability to install above-ground piping systems
ability to cut and core concrete, wood, masonry and steel
ability to install sleeves, hangers and supports
ability to install piping systems and venting regulators
ability to install combustion air and appliance venting systems
ability to identify piping
ability to test liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems

Installs gas equipment.

knowledge of gas appliances
knowledge of associated electric components
knowledge of applicable codes
knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
ability to install equipment
ability to install electric components
ability to instruct owner on equipment operation
ability to perform equipment start-up procedures

Installs medical gas systems.

Installs piping for medical

knowledge of medical gas systems
knowledge of brazing procedure
knowledge of associated electronic equipment
knowledge of certification requirements
ability to perform nitrogen purge
ability to braze
ability to install and support piping
ability to test medical gas piping systems

Installs equipment for medical gas systems.

knowledge of support requirements for medical gas cylinders and cabinets
ability to install equipment to specifications
ability to install outlets, alarms and zone valves

Installs crossconnection control.

Identifies backflow preventers.

knowledge of the hazard downstream of assembly
knowledge of backflow preventers
knowledge of operation of backflow preventers
ability to choose proper backflow preventer

Installs backflow preventers.

knowledge of support systems
knowledge of proper location
knowledge of installation requirements
ability to install backflow preventers

Installs petroleum systems.

Installs piping for petroleum systems.

knowledge of petroleum products
knowledge of petroleum piping systems
knowledge of containment systems
ability to install piping for petroleum systems

Installs related equipment.

knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
ability to install fuel oil equipment

Installs other specialty systems.

Plans installation of specialty piping systems.

knowledge of system requirements
ability to install specialty and process piping systems

Installs specialty piping systems and equipment.

knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
knowledge of specialized installation methods
ability to install specialty and process piping systems and equipment

Pumps

Selects pumps.

Determines applications.

knowledge of pump types
knowledge of operating principles
knowledge of system requirements
ability to interpret pump curves and charts
ability to select pump type and size

Determines accessories.

knowledge of pump accessories required by applicable codes
knowledge of power source types and applications
ability to select required accessories

Determines power energy source.

knowledge of different types of power sources
ability to determine power source

Installs pumps.

Installs piping for pumps.

knowledge of connection principles and techniques
ability to select and install piping for pump

Installs pumps and accessories.

knowledge of pumps, pump accessories, types and applications
ability to install pumps
ability to install accessories

Coordinates power connection to pump.

knowledge of power sources
ability to ensure power sources are installed by governing trade

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Maintenance And Repairs

Maintains plumbing-related systems and components.

Plans system maintenance.

knowledge of preventive maintenance
ability to estimate time required for maintenance
ability to plan maintenance

Maintains plumbing-related systems.

knowledge of plumbing-related systems
knowledge of system parts and components
ability to maintain drainage, waste vents and private sewage disposal systems
ability to maintain water service and distribution, and plumbing fixtures and appliances
ability to maintain natural gas systems
ability to maintain liquefied petroleum gas systems
ability to maintain medical gas systems
ability to maintain petroleum systems
ability to maintain other specialty systems
ability to maintain pumps

Repairs plumbing-related systems and components.

Troubleshoots plumbing-related systems and components.

knowledge of plumbing systems
knowledge of troubleshooting techniques
ability to assess and analyze "cause and effect"
ability to solve problem
ability to document and report deficiencies

Repairs plumbing-related systems.

knowledge of plumbing-related systems
ability to select parts
ability to correct deficiencies
ability to remove and replace damaged parts and components
ability to repair drainage, waste, vent and private sewage disposal systems
ability to repair water service and distribution, and plumbing fixtures and appliances
ability to repair natural gas systems
ability to repair liquefied petroleum gas systems
ability to repair medical gas systems
ability to repair petroleum systems
ability to repair specialty systems
ability to repair pumps

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Provided by the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program National Occupational Analysis (NOA) http://www.red-seal.ca

TradesInfo.ca

Plumber Trade Skills

Common Occupational Skills

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Drainage, Waste, Vents And Private Sewage Disposal Systems

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Water Service And Distribution, Plumbing Fixtures And Appliances

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Hydronic Heating/cooling Systems

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Specialized Piping Systems

Pumps

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Maintenance And Repairs

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