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Say Goodbye To Leaky Pipes
Plumbers and related workers install, maintain and repair pipe systems made from a range of materials to help rid us of pesky leaks and blocked drainage systems. This group of tradespersons comprises a number of specialised areas, including plumbers, gasfitters, roof plumbers, drainers, fire protection workers and irrigation installers.
Of the approximate 4,200 plumbers and related workers in Western Australia, just over half are general plumbers. Gasfitters, roof plumbers and drainers constitute a large proportion of the remaining workforce.
Differing Degrees Of Complexity
All plumbers undertake the common tasks of drawing, interpreting and installing piping layouts, and the maintenance and repair of piping systems, although there are different levels of complexity across the specialisations.
There are also differences in the type of pipe system and fixtures used. For example, plumbers deal with general water systems and fixtures, including sprinkler systems, basins and toilets, while gasfitters work with gas lines and gas related appliances, including hot water systems and space heating systems.
Drainers deal with sewerage and drain water piping systems, which include septic tanks, whereas roof plumbers deal primarily with the guttering systems of buildings. The installation, maintenance and repair of sprinkler systems and fire detection equipment is the task of fire protection workers. Irrigation installers design, install and maintain reticulation systems ranging from small areas such as residential gardens, to large areas like golf courses.
A Physical Challenge
Plumbers and related workers need to be reasonably fit as this type of work can be physically demanding. To enjoy working in these occupations, you will also need to be good with your hands and able to tackle practical problems.
Bob Sayers of Swan TAFE says,
''The opportunity to work outdoors and to choose from such a wide range of specialist areas are other advantages that people interested in working in this industry can look forward to.''
Plumbers and related workers find employment with small contracting firms and in large plumbing firms, however, self employment opportunities, after considerable training in small business management, are also possible. If this is the path you're hoping to follow it would be wise to hone your business acumen skills now. A preparedness to keep abreast of changes in the industry will also help you keep up with your competitors.
You'll need to be licensed with the Plumbers Licensing Board/Department of Consumer and Employment Protection to work as a self-employed plumber, or the Office of Energy if you are a gasfitter. Opportunities for advancement to supervisory positions also exist in these trade related occupations.
About 70% of plumbers and related workers find employment in the construction industry. The majority are employed in Perth and in the South West region of the State.
There is currently a shortage of qualified plumbers in Western Australia. Plumbers and related tradespeople are heavily reliant on activity in the building and construction industry and, although employment forecasts suggested the industry would slow down markedly following the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax in 2000, the situation has since improved.
The starting annual salary for a qualified tradesperson is about $35,000, which can increase to $70,000 a year or higher for those who operate their own business.
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