BUSINESS AND TRAINING 17
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1 and 2 : Apprentices at work …
• The on-site learning will help an apprentice understand how to problem-solve , a critical skill for a professional plumber . For instance , if the toilet outlet pipe in the bathroom was originally installed too high ( that is , not within standard plumbing guidelines ) you may have to implement a workaround solution . And in this case , consideration would be given to the guidelines for this to be done in the best manner , which is still compliant with local municipal bylaws or SANS Industry Codes .
• Your apprentice will also start to see the types of fittings which you have used on certain installations and for different scenarios . So too , they will learn about all the tools which you have , and how having the correct tools and equipment can make each job that much easier .
• The type of toilet and flushing mechanism will be new for your apprentice . Each time he learns to install a different brand of toilet , he is gaining more experience . If you can send your apprentice on training programmes that some of the manufacturers or importers offer , then this can only add to their learning experience .
• Putting in a toilet not only needs to be within compliance requirements , but also needs to be installed logically and practically , such as not to block the bathroom door from opening !
• A client will want their bathroom to be aesthetically pleasing by not having unsightly pipes showing everywhere . Just listening to a discussion on installation options between a plumber and their client , is an important learning curve in good communication . An apprentice will also learn ‘ soft skills ’ such as how to allay a clients ’ concerns or fears about the plumbing work being done on their property .
See Part 3 of the Apprenticeship Process in the May issue of Plumbing Africa ! PA
“ Also set tasks that push your apprentice to think , and which test his or her knowledge and skills .”
From the above points , you can see the intricacies of apprenticeships and the different ways of learning that all contribute holistically towards a learner plumbers ’ growth path . Learning can be through active participation and other times information is assimilated passively by the learner plumber . Either way , no learnings during an apprenticeship should ever go to waste !
About the author : Terry Smith is owner of Legacy Plumbing Services , registered with PIRB , and a member of IOPSA .
Terry can be reached on 071 836 7750 , or email : terry @ legacyplumbing . co . za
April 2021 Volume 27 I Number 2 www . plumbingafrica . co . za