The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) is working with SNIPEF to assist them in engaging with plumbing and heating employers in England & Wales to ensure that the National Occupational Standards for plumbing and heating are fit-for-purpose and reflect the competence requirements of the sector.

National Occupational Standards (NOS) are statements of the scope of competence that individuals must achieve when carrying out functions in the workplace, together with specifications of the underpinning knowledge and understanding.

NOS are developed for employers by employers through the relevant Standards Setting Organisation. Skills Development Scotland has appointed Building Services Engineering Skills to carry out a periodic review of the National Occupational Standards, with SNIPEF working on their behalf to consult on behalf of the plumbing and heating sector.

Graeme Dryden, APHC’s Technical Services Manager, commented: “We are inviting employers to attend a free breakfast workshop where they can review the current NOS and advise whether they consider these still to be fit for purpose or whether any improvements are needed.

“Attendees will also have the opportunity to get involved in a Bitesize Tech Talk where we have three topical areas of discussion, plus there will be an open forum where attendees can bring forward other technical topics for discussion.”

The Bitesize Tech Talk Topics include:

  • Fluctuating gas pressures on the incoming supply and the effects on appliance sizing, safety and commissioning
  • Use of double check valves and the catastrophic component failure and effects of pressure increases in hot and cold water services pipework
  • Safe isolation of electrical supplies and what training currently exists
  • This is followed by an open discussion forum on current technical challenges faced by industry.

APHC are hosting the two breakfast workshops on 29 January 2019 in Leeds at Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa, and on 30 January 2019 in North Wales at The Oriel Hotel,  Denbighshire. 

For further information or to book a place, please contact the APHC on marketing@aphc.co.uk or 0121 711 5030.