Plumber

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Plumber. A plumber installs, maintains, tests, and repairs hot and cold-water supply systems, drainage, sewerage, and rainwater systems. A qualified learner will be able to: • Install, maintain and test, and repair above ground soil waste and vent systems and sanitary ware appliances. • Install, maintain and test, below-ground drainage systems and performing basic building work. • Install, maintain and test, cold water systems and hot water systems. • Install, maintain and test, rainwater systems. A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes: • Methodologically and procedurally oriented. • Problem-solving. • Analytical. • Professionalism.

The need for this qualification arises in response to a growing demand for skilled professionals in the plumbing industry. As urbanisation continues to expand globally, the construction and maintenance of residential, commercial, and industrial infrastructure are crucial for economic growth and societal well-being. Plumbers play a vital role in ensuring the proper functioning of water supply systems, sanitation facilities, heating, and cooling systems, among other essential services. With rapid urban development and the construction of new buildings, there is a heightened demand for qualified plumbers who can install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems efficiently and in compliance with industry standards and regulations. The plumbing industry is evolving with advancements in technology, such as smart water meters, water-saving fixtures, and energy-efficient heating systems. Plumbers need updated skills and knowledge to work with these new technologies effectively. There are stringent regulatory requirements and safety standards in place for plumbing work to ensure public health and safety. Qualified plumbers are essential for meeting these compliance standards and carrying out work that meets legal and ethical obligations. There is a recognised shortage of skilled plumbers in many regions, leading to challenges in meeting the demand for plumbing services. This qualification aims to address the skills gap by producing competent and certified plumbers. The plumbing sector benefits from a skilled workforce that can handle diverse plumbing tasks, from installation to maintenance and repairs. This leads to improved service quality and customer satisfaction. Access to qualified plumbers ensures that communities have reliable access to safe and hygienic water supply systems, sanitation facilities, and functional plumbing infrastructure, promoting public health and well-being. A competent plumbing workforce contributes to economic growth by supporting construction projects, property maintenance services, and infrastructure development. It also creates employment opportunities and stimulates entrepreneurship in the plumbing industry. Trained plumbers can implement eco-friendly practices, such as water recycling, energy-efficient system installations, and leak detection technologies, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource conservation. Individuals interested in pursuing a career as professional plumbers include: • Apprentices or trainees under plumbing apprenticeship programs. • Experienced plumbers seeking formal recognition and certification of their skills. • Employees in plumbing-related roles within construction, maintenance, or building services companies. Learners are expected to demonstrate proficiency in practical plumbing tasks, theoretical knowledge of plumbing principles and regulations, and essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and safety practices. Typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate are Plumber, Plumbing Contractor, Maintenance Technician, Pipefitter, Drainage Technician, Water Systems Installer and Plumbing Supervisor. This qualification was developed in collaboration with the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB). Upon successful completion, learners may operate as a Plumber.

RPL for Access to Training/Exemption: Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: An NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematical Literacy and Communication.

• Install, test and maintain, above-ground soil, waste, and vent systems, as well as sanitary ware devices, by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.
• Install, test and maintain, below-ground drainage systems while conducting fundamental construction tasks, by modifying and employing standard solutions.
• Install, test and maintain, cold water systems and hot water systems by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.
• Prepare for installation, testing and maintenance of rainwater systems by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.