To mark Quality Plumber Week (1-7 October), The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) is calling for the industry to debate the pros and cons of introducing a single mandatory plumbing license.
John Thompson, Chief Executive of the APHC, said: “Having a license to practice is currently a hot topic, which requires industry debate and scrutiny, as there are widely differing opinions on the subject.
“In our key role of supporting businesses and employers across the industry, we want to discuss: the rights and wrongs of such a scheme; how it could fit within the current framework of legislation and existing competence schemes; how it could be enforced, funded, and promoted; what the membership criteria could look like; how would competence be measured; how could it work for new entrants, existing installers, and those installers with many years’ worth of experience, but who don’t hold an official qualification. From here we can establish a consensus viewpoint from businesses and employers to take forward as part of further dialogue.”
The industry can get involved with this debate by attending a free regional workshop, details of which can found on the APHC’s website. The launch workshop, on 2 October in Leicester, also includes APHC supplier members and companies exhibiting, including Altecnic, BPEC, Gti Direct, Monument Tools, Simpro Software, Spirotech, and Testo.
“It’s not too late to attend a workshop, but you need to be quick. Failing that we will be hosting a seminar at PHEX Manchester on 17 October,” said John.
The APHC would also like to see plumbing and heating contractors post photographs of their work on social media using the hashtag #QPW18. John said: “We’ll be giving away prizes for photos of work posted on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn and I know that Polypipe are running their own competition.
In addition, Fernox, HVP, PHEX, Ideal Standard, SNIPEF, Spirotech, WaterSafe, and Worcester Bosch have all confirmed that they are supporting Quality Plumber Week 2018. Get involved and let’s shout about the important role that the plumbing and heating industry plays in our everyday lives.”
Visit www.qualityplumberweek.co.uk for further details.
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