Are you considering becoming a Plumber? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
Print Page
Bookmark or recommend this article:
Plumbers work on sanitation and waste disposal, heating and ventilation systems or pipework for the inside and outside of buildings.
In the industrial and commercial sector, Plumbers may work on other piped infrastructure such as air-conditioning and extraction units. Plumbers can also be found in the chemical, ship and gas fitting industries.
They use a variety of skills, tools and materials, and have to make sure their work is carried out safely and accurately and that it complies with regulations.
Duties include:
- routine servicing on boilers and other appliances
- making and fitting flashings or roof weatherings, to make joints between
roof tiles or slates, chimneys and dormer windows.
- installing, and sometimes designing, plumbed services for new houses
and industrial buildings
This plumbing preparation course follows the same syllabus as NVQ Level 2 Plumbing and you will attain the Open Study College Certificate upon completion. The benefit of this is there are no exams involved, which makes it ideal for learning in your own time.
Read plumbing course details >>
The main route to become a Plumber is through an Appenticeship. Many people train through Foundation or Advanced Modern Apprenticeships. Most apprentices enter between the ages of 16 and 18, but there is no age limit. The Joint Industry Board for Plumbing (JIBP) also runs a four-year apprenticeship.
Plumber Training
If you are employed within the industry, you can work directly
towards:
- NVQ in Plumberal Engineering Services - Plumbing (6089) at Level 2
- NVQ/SVQ Plumberal Engineering Services - Plumbing (6089) at Level 3.
As well as assessing your practical skills, the NVQ incorporates the technical
certificates. The NVQ/SVQ is normally available on a part-time or day-release
basis through colleges and training centres.
The Level 3 NVQ/SVQ contains additional assessments for:
- Water Regulations (Bye-Laws in Scotland)
- Unvented Hot Water Systems
- ACS gas safety (required for Corgi registration).
