FITTING THOUGHT 1
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Recognition for the deserving
This issue – the last for 2023 , as December is the annual directory – is very much about recognising people in our industry , all for different reasons .
By
Rory Macnamara or Grumpy
The IOPSA Annual Awards certainly did that through an excellent balance of categories , which we cover in detail in this issue . The event was an evening enjoyed by all and whilst not everyone won an award , the finalists were of great standing – reflecting the quality of those in our industry .
The Executive Director recognises the essential role of the youth which is more than ‘ just the future ’ – it is the responsibility that they have now and into the future for the youth of the future and sustainability of our world . They must renew , refresh and maintain society by advancing technology , education , politics and peace .
The article on the changing role of the plumber is critical . Whilst the basic function of a plumber is to ensure our water and waste is functioning well and maintained regularly , the growth areas to develop a business beyond what they are trained for provides opportunities to increase profitability , especially as our water quality is under threat .
Of the articles I have published , the one on Nico Marais in our Tell me why series just shows the strength , humility and courage of a plumber who had a leg amputated and despite such a disability , sees the positive side of life and “ will not be defined by his prosthetic .”
Plumbing Africa will continue writing about those with disabilities and has engaged with the National Council of / for People with Disabilities ( NCPD ). IOPSA has recognised its role as part of the transformation agenda .
Uwe Putlitz writes on a vexing issue and fear that sub-contractors all have and that is of not being paid either timeously or at all . In this instance , we look at a plumber that has done his or her work correctly with no delays and deserves to be paid on time . Whoever is responsible for this poor practice should hang their heads in shame ! This is not the first time Uwe has written about this issue and plumbers must ensure that all of their ducks are in a row in terms of contracts they enter into and using them to their advantage , especially regarding late payments .
The PIRB has been granted professional recognition by SAQA for the third time and the article makes mention of the changes adopted to reward those registered plumbers as they climb up the rewards ladder .
Our Women in Plumbing series features Michelle van Rensburg , National Secretary of IOPSA . The series is not only for plumbers , but all women involved in the industry – whether a qualified plumber , or in the office making sure the business runs smoothly . There must be quite a few ladies in this position and we recognise them as well .
Leak detection is the feature and is a part of the industry that has developed at a fast pace from the early days . The article looks at the detail of the topic .
Our project is about steam and the important role it plays in keeping large institutions functioning including hospitals , prisons and the like , which are essential to those who make use of the services of these institutions .
We end this column with words from this month ’ s Women on Site apprentice , Dineo Mudumbe , which apply to all of us , “ Never miss a chance to excel because of a fear of the unknown .” With that mindset our future is secure ! PA
Rory
Rory Macnamara , Editor | Email : rory @ interactmedia . co . za
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November 2023 Volume 29 I Number 9 www . plumbingafrica . co . za