Why become a plumber ?
Most people think that plumbing is dirty work or a non-skilled profession . This is a misperception .
ASSOCIATIONS 15
By
PIRB
To be a plumber , you need to possess various skills and competencies . Without plumbing , modern life would not exist . Even Albert Einstein , one of the greatest geniuses in history , said : “ If I had my life to live over again , I would be a plumber .”
One of the advantages of becoming a plumber is the reliability of this career choice . Regardless of the economic situation in the country , there will always be a need for plumbers . By working your way up the designation tier , you control the ability to advance your career in a single field .
There is massive scope for growth within the industry , as specialising in different fields forms part of the career ladder in plumbing . Move up the ranks as a learner plumber to the top two tiers of a master or director plumber . The option of becoming an inspector or a trainer is also an integral part of the industry ’ s future .
Generally , plumbers are good at problem solving , possess the ability to follow technical plans , and understand the significance of health and safety . People skills are also important , as dealing with consumers , municipalities , and various other professionals are required daily . Plumbing will never be a mundane office job and the opportunity to upskill or study further in the field always exists .
Plumbers do not need to have a university degree , but industryrecognised training is required to become a qualified practitioner . A common entry point into the plumbing industry is through an apprenticeship with a licensed plumber or plumbing company . During training , you will learn how to install water supplies , find faults , fix domestic appliances , and attend to emergency callouts , among other things .
There are a variety of plumber apprenticeships and courses available in South Africa . It is just a matter of searching for opportunities available .
Once you have joined a plumber or plumbing company , you can earn while you study ; therefore , student finance may not be a burden . Many families do not have the funds to study once their children leave high school and this makes the plumbing industry the perfect gateway into the working world .
The Construction Education and Training Authority ( CETA ) and the Quality Council for Trades & Occupations ( QCTO ) are responsible for evaluating and accrediting all suitable training courses for use by prospective plumbers . You will need to complete CETA- or QCTO-accredited training to become a licensed plumber .
Once you have the required skills , you will be in demand and own the ability to earn a decent wage as a plumber in South Africa .
The best way to start your career is as an assistant or learner plumber , where you will work alongside an experienced and qualified plumber while servicing residences . As you gain experience , you will be able to explore opportunities within the industry .
There are many opportunities for plumbers in South Africa . Some plumbers work for companies in the construction industry , as well as for plumbing companies , while others are independent contractors working on a self-employed basis .
Plumbing also has specialisations that would require proper training and certification . Plumbing is not only about working with pipes and taps in bathrooms and kitchens , it is so much more . Plumbing is a huge industry with many different aspects .
Specialisations can include :
• Arbitrators
• Estimators
• Training assessors
• Above and below ground drainage
• Rainwater disposal
• Cold or hot water
• Solar , heat pump , or gas
• Water energy .
Fortunately , in South Africa , there are organisations that support the plumbing industry and plumbers , such as the Plumbing Industry Registration Board ( PIRB ), the Institute of Plumbing South Africa ( IOPSA ), and the Joint Acceptance Scheme for Water Services Installation Components ( JASWIC ). With these organisations supporting and encouraging the upliftment of plumbers and the industry as a whole , being a plumber is not only a rewarding job but one that is recognised as a valuable pillar of society . PA
www . plumbingafrica . co . za October 2018 Volume 24 I Number 8