Plumbers install, repair and maintain the water supply, waste water treatment, drainage and gas systems in homes, commercial and industrical buildings. The work includes plumbing tasks to assemble, install and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water and drainage systems according to specifications and plumbing codes. Plumbers also install sanitary facilities; such as lavatories, toilets, tubs, bathroom fixtures, showers, kitchen fixtures, drinking fountains and laundry equipment.
Plumbing work can be indoors or outdoors in existing and newly constructed buildings, in various weather conditions and around noise, dirt and mud. The work requires physical strength and stamina with prolonged standing, lifting heavy pipes and equipment and working in cramped, awkward or uncomfortable positions. Training in safety practices prevents the risk of dangers with falls from ladders, cuts from sharp tools and burns from hot pipes or soldering equipment.
Topics include plumbing code, repair and service, materials, installation of fixtures and appliances, system design, trade math, safety, science, blueprint reading and isometric drawing.