Plumber
Plumbers install, alter and repair the systems that keep our water and waste disposal systems running, and that provide many of the basic amenities we rely on day-to-day. They read and interpret blueprints and project specifications. Plumbers also select the type and size of pipe required for a project and measure, shape and join pipes according to the appropriate specifications. They sometimes alter structures to accommodate the pipes. Plumber is a nationally designated trade under the Inter-provincial Red Seal program. (Find out about Red Seal in the Trades Lingo section.)
What do these workers do?
(Source: BC Work Futures)
All plumbers must be able to build and repair pipes that transfer water from one place to another. If you work on large construction projects or electronically controlled water systems, you will learn new skills beyond basic water piping skills, including:
Read blueprints and visualize in three dimensions the best connections for piping and valves on the job site. Plumbers usually begin work after a structure has been erected but is not yet finished. They sometimes find that the building does not exactly match the blueprints and creative solutions are needed to solve those problems.
Cut holes in walls for pipes. Special knowledge about structural supports is required to avoid weakening supports when cutting through them.
Bend piping to follow smooth curves without kinking. Smooth pipe bending is a skill that is learned through practice.
Apply threading to pipes and solder-sealed joints in copper piping. Use newer flexible plastic piping where appropriate and make connections with joint glues and patented connectors.
Track down and troubleshoot plumbing problems. Video technology lets plumbers visually examine plumbing systems with cameras and locator beacons mounted on wire coils. This technique allow the plumber to locate old plumbing in walls and under houses.
Install hall water heaters. This is one of the reasons plumbers must have gasfitting skills and experience.
Install appliances. Plumbers may have to install dishwashers, Jacuzzis and complete bathrooms, and carry out complete bathroom renovations.
Fix and install drainage tile and other drainage systems. While this is outside the scope of some plumbers' work, many do perform building drainage work as this is a natural fit with other residential plumbing work.
Prepare cost estimates. Plumbers may have to provide potential customers with advice, guidance and the cost of solving a plumbing-related problem.
Read the full Plumber profile (60Kb pdf)
