ASSOCIATIONS 7 result , there has been a notable increase in the number of unqualified ‘ plumbers ’ operating in the country . This has also been to the detriment of qualified plumbers who are unable to compete against unscrupulous operators who do not adhere to mandatory quality standards and use substandard pipes and fittings . The impacts have been felt throughout the entire plumbing value chain – even impacting manufacturers and suppliers of quality pipes and fittings . This is despite the Department of Water and Sanitation ’ s recommendations to municipalities that they should maintain a list of plumbing pipes and fittings that have been approved by an applicable quality standards body that can be used in their jurisdictions .
Qualified plumbers have completed a plumbing apprenticeship . It entails three years of formal and structured theoretical and practical training before learners write their trade tests . This rigorous process ensures that they are deemed competent and , therefore , permitted to apply their trade .
They , therefore , have the knowledge and expertise that is required to install plumbing systems that provide access to clean water sources that make sustainable health possible . Qualified plumbers also deploy their skills and expertise when installing , maintaining , and repairing critical systems that help to dispose of waste in an efficient and safe manner . The breakout of the Covid-19 infections in South Africa has again highlighted the important role that water , sanitation and hygiene or ‘ wash ’ practices play in distancing people from harmful viruses and pathogens that cause disease .
In a water-stressed country , qualified plumbers play a critical role by helping homeowners and businesses conserve precious finite water resources . These capabilities are also harnessed by businesses and homeowners when installing solar-water heaters , as well as harvesting greywater and rainwater that help to conserve scarce resources and reduce reliance on already-strained municipal infrastructure .
Government has pledged to intervene where necessary to improve the delivery of municipal services to communities . This is in line with the requirements of the 1996 Constitution . It mandates national and provincial government to monitor and support municipalities and to intervene if they are unable to provide basic services , including water and sanitation , to their constituents . In extenuating circumstances , provincial government has even been given the right to take over essential basic services from defunct municipalities .
IOPSA believes that the lack of and inadequate quality of available municipal water services bylaws is among the many pressing challenges at local government level that require urgent attention . Importantly , this will also support the requirements of the Water Services Act . Among these obligations is ensuring access to basic water supply and sanitation to communities . The Act also empowers municipalities to enforce the efficient use of scarce water resources in their jurisdictions . This is by developing their own water services bylaws aligned to Model Water Services Bylaws , the Water Services act , National Building Regulations , and the mandatory standards .
It is only possible to solve the challenges faced in South Africa , if industry , government , and labour work together in honest partnerships . IOPSA stands ready to assist government and municipalities in resolving these issues . Several district and local municipalities are already working with IOPSA and other partners to develop and implement adequate water services bylaws . The Building Control Officers and Water Inspectors of two metropolitan municipalities are being trained by IOPSA . These are small but important steps which demonstrate that partnerships can have a meaningful impact . However , the challenge is taking these initiatives to scale .
We hope that our findings have brought the severity of the situation to light so that all relevant stakeholders can intervene sooner rather than later to arrest the situation . PA
“ Our findings are a concern , and corroborate expert opinion , that many of South Africa ’ s municipalities are in deep crisis .”
January 2022 Volume 27 I Number 11 www . plumbingafrica . co . za