Plumbing Connection Winter 2016

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PLUMBING INTER 2016 63 For more information T: 1300 276 642 E: W:
KEEP YOUR
GAS REGULAR
WITH BROMIC REGULATORS
DID YOU KNOW WE ALSO SELL:
SOLDERING &
WELDING SEALANTS
VALVES & ADAPTORS
HOSES PUMPS
∫ Generally the construction sector
is strong at the present time but
demand for plumbing, gasfitting and
drainlaying services varies across
the regions.
∫ The pressure for a rapid increase
in new residential building in some
areas creates a risk of a high
volume of unauthorised work being
performed.
∫ The strong construction sector
may see an increased number of
overseas trained people wishing to
come to New Zealand. The Board
will need to assess the skills of
these people so that safety is not
compromised on the one hand, and
unnecessary barriers to entry are
not created on the other.
∫ Costs are an issue for the sector.
Costs of education (including both
initial trade training and CPD),
registration, and licensing are a
burden on businesses.
∫ There are a large number of people
working within the industry under
exemptions. This creates some
risks because these people are not
subject to any regulatory oversight
and are exempt from ongoing
training requirements.
∫ The Board is currently undertaking
a review of the registration and
licensing Gazette notices including
the effective exercise of supervision
within the industry. This presents an
opportunity to make changes that
will enhance the competence of the
industry.
∫ Key partners within the industry
have indicated a willingness to
work more closely with the Board.
This creates the opportunity for
increased voluntary compliance.
CONSUMER OPINION
The public health component of
plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying
and their contribution is under
recognised by the public, leading to a
growth in DIY and unlicensed activities.
There are a number of relationships
with other key parties within the wider
construction sector (e.g territorial
authorities, consumer organisations,
insurers, other regulators, retailers)
that that have been formed and/or
enhanced in order to contribute to the
Board’s public awareness objectives.
Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers
Board