Issue Date:  -  Tuesday, 16 August 2005

New training requirements for plumbers

The Plumbers Licensing Board has introduced new training requirements for trades people applying for a Plumbing Contractor’s Licence.

Plumbers Licensing Board chairman Tom Hall said the new Plumbing Contractor’s Licence Course was an important step in promoting excellence in the industry.

“The course and assessment were developed in consultation with the plumbing industry, Challenger TAFE and Swan TAFE and are in line with National Competencies,” Mr Hall said.

“It was designed to improve standards within the industry and ensure that plumbers are being trained to carry out plumbing work in today’s environment.”

Mr Hall said plumbers undergoing their certificate of competency under the former assessment program have until 31 December 2006 to finalise any outstanding units.

There will be no transfer of credits between the old program and the new Plumbing Contractor’s Licence program after 31 December 2006.

The new Plumbing Contractor’s Licence Course includes three new business units:

 Establish Business and Legal Requirements;
 Carry out work based risk controls;
 Estimate and cost work.

The other course requirements are that plumbers must be currently registered as a licensed tradesperson with the Plumbers Licensing Board and must complete the competencies within two years of commencing the new training course.

Mr Hall said practical subjects will no longer be assessed or be a component of the Plumbing Contractors Licence.

The “Panel of Examiners” through Challenger TAFE will still issue a “Statement of Competency” in the following licence categories:

 Water Supply;
 Sanitary;
 Drainage.                                                       
Mr Hall said the formal plumbing units in the new Plumbing Contractor’s Licence Course would be assessed initially on a bi-annual basis and administered by the “Panel of Examiners”.

For more information on the course contact the Panel of Examiners at Challenger TAFE on 9239 8309.