22 FEATURES
Taps and mixers matrix
by
Rory Macnamara and Tanya Olckers
Taps and mixers are needed to allow for a functioning water delivery system .
This matrix gives the plumber and engineer the basics when it comes to installing specific types of taps and mixers . The standards that are in place in the industry are compulsory and are there to protect people ’ s health and safety .
Yes , higher quality products will affect the end price for your client , however both you and the client can rest assured that the proper protocols have been followed in the vetting of the product itself .
The JASWIC listing - which highlights SANS , but which also accepts tests , hopefully leading to full certification - indicates ‘ special conditions ’. As with SANS there is more than just the certificate , but conditions which form part of the standard . These must be referred to so that costly mistakes are averted .
Beware of those that claim to hold SANS accreditation , but can ’ t provide the certificate of the certifying body , whether that ’ s SABS , SATAS , AENOR , SAPCS or Conformity International .
The types of tools you use – especially when it comes to the manufacturer – needs to be carefully considered . These tools should be of good quality as the ‘ cheap and nasty ’ sort don ’ t survive and they could damage the taps and mixers you are trying to fit for your client . In the long run , this is detrimental to both you and your client .
The use of compliant products is essential . This is where plumbers need to educate clients as non-compliant products can lead to greater expense in the long run . These shoddy products can result in damage and invalidation of warranties and insurance for the client , not to mention reputational damage to the plumber or installer . Pay attention to the manufacturer ’ s instructions as they offer solid advice to obtain the best life from the taps and mixers .
In the matrix the applicable standards are mentioned in the listing and the full standard may be obtained from www . sabs . co . za .
It must be noted that the information provided assumes that the installer is a competent , qualified plumber .
End users / specifiers must take responsibility to check the mark certificate and the supporting documents which are integral to the issuance of the certificate .
We have added the name of the certification body to the list . PA
" Beware of those that claim to hold SANS accreditation , but can ’ t provide the certificate of the certifying body , whether that ’ s SABS , SATAS , AENOR , SAPCS or Conformity International ."
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www . plumbingafrica . co . za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline March 2025 Volume 31 I Number 01