Plumber and Gasfitter
Tasks & duties
Plumbers and gasfitters may do some or all of the following:
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study building plans and specifications
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discuss the client's requirements
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replace or repair damaged pipes
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cut holes in walls for new pipes
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measure, cut and shape pipes
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install and join pipes and fittings
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test joins for leaks
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install fixtures such as gas stoves, toilets, septic tanks and air-conditioning
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repair and maintain pipes and fixtures
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install bathrooms
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install and maintain hot water and heating systems, such as fuel installations, central heating, gas heaters, heat pumps
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lay or repair drains
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install and repair roofing pipes and spouting
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run their own business
Specialisations
Plumbers and gasfitters may specialise in servicing gas heating appliances.
Skills & knowledge
Plumbers and gasfitters need to have:
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knowledge of plumbing materials and methods
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good maths skills
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skill interpreting drawings or plans and instructions
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knowledge of building and safety regulations
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knowledge of the Building Code in relation to plumbing and gasfitting
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skill using and caring for equipment
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soldering and welding skills
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practical skills, including some electrical skills
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knowledge of health and safety procedures
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excellent communication skills
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problem-solving skills
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record-keeping and organisational skills
Entry requirements
To become a plumber and gasfitter you need to complete a four-year apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Plumbing and a National Certificate in Gasfitting Level 4. This can be completed through the Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying ITO . This involves on-the-job training, completing workbooks and attending block courses at polytechnic.
Plumbing and gasfitting apprenticeships are part of the Modern Apprenticeship scheme, which are for people aged 16 to 21. For further information go to the Modern Apprenticeships website.
If working on gas appliances and hot-water cylinders, plumbers and gasfitters may also need to have an Electrical Service Technician Certificate.
Secondary education
A minimum of three years secondary education is required to enter a plumbing and gasfitting apprenticeship, although four years is preferred. Useful subjects include English, maths, science, technical drawing and workshop technology.
Tertiary education
A plumbing pre-trade course is optional for those wanting to enter the trade.
Training on the job
Plumbers and gasfitters can complete courses to keep up to date with new technology, safety procedures and other developments in the industry. They may also receive training in operating heavy machinery and can complete courses to become registered drainlayers. For further information contact the Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying ITO.
Registration
Plumbers and gasfitters need to be registered and hold an annual practising licence with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board to work in New Zealand, and apprentices must hold a limited certificate with the board and work under the supervision of a registered person.
Registered plumbers and gasfitters must have their work signed off by a craftsman plumber and gasfitter.
To become a craftsman plumber and gasfitter you need to work for two or more years after gaining your registration and pass a craftsman's exam. Craftsman plumbers and gasfitters can have their own business or do consultancy, teaching or design work.
Registered and craftsman plumbers and gasfitters must renew their annual practising licence from the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board by providing evidence each year (such as attending certain courses) of their competency.
Useful experience
Useful experience for plumbers and gasfitters includes:
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drainlaying
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work in the building construction or heating and ventilation industries
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maintenance diagnostic work
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welding and sheet metal work
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operating earthmoving machinery
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any work that involves using hand tools
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work as a boiler maker
Related courses
Electrical Engineering
Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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