NEWS 3
Plumbers and electricians join forces
By
Tanya Olckers
A joint statement signed by IOPSA and ECASA ushers in unity and mutual assistance between plumbers and electricians .
A momentous meeting took place in Johannesburg on 28 August 2024 . Leaders from both IOPSA and ECASA came together to discuss their shared issues in the construction industry , and in particular , issues that have long dogged both professions when it comes to geyser installation .
Mathys de Jager ( ECA Chairman of Highveld Region ), Kurt Lubbers ( ECA Vice Chairman of Highveld Region ) and Anthony Schewitz ( ECA Regional Director for Highveld Region ) met with Steven Brown ( IOPSA Executive Director ) and Steve van Zyl ( IOPSA Technical Manager ) to discuss the matter of geyser installation , the role of the plumber and the role of the electrician in installations .
It was clear from the productive discussion that customer and insurance provider education was paramount in moving forward , as well as education for both plumbers and electricians . The meeting was to herald in the beginning of a commitment for IOPSA and ECASA to work together and more closely in future on a number of matters .
The afternoon was concluded with the signing of a joint statement released by both bodies regarding governance , framework and responsibilities of both the electrician and the plumber .
ECASA and IOPSA Joint Statement
1 . Governance and Legal Framework for Electrical Installations All electrical work is governed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations . Compliance with relevant legislation , such as the Construction Regulations and the Electrical Installation Regulations , is mandatory . Key definitions include :
• Installation Work : Installation , extension , modification , or repair of an electrical installation , connection of machinery , and inspection / testing for compliance certification .
• Electrical Contractor : An entity undertaking electrical installation work for others , excluding employees of that entity .
• Electrical Installation : Machinery used for electricity transmission within premises , excluding certain machinery like communication circuits and vehicle installations .
Continued on page 6
All images by © Plumbing Africa
Anthony Schewitz ( ECA ) and Steve Brown ( IOPSA ) sign the joint statement .
November 2024 Volume 30 I Number 9 www . plumbingafrica . co . za