3 answers
Peyton
Student
Roseau, Minnesota
3
Questions
Asked
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How do you stay updated with plumbing codes? Do you need a big shop for plumbing?
I'm a senior in high school still deciding if i should be a plumber or a diesel mechanic.
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3 answers
James McCollum
Consulting Engineer, Plumbing and Fire Suppression
2
Answers
Hopewell, Virginia
Updated
James’s Answer
Peyton,
Methods of staying updated with plumbing codes can vary some with locality, but generally most states in the US have adopted the International Construction Codes either directly or with modifications. These codes can be accessed free of charge at http://www.iccsafe.org/, including the state modified versions. The real trick however is understanding the codes and their application. A code commentary (also available for purchase on this site) is a big help for this.
Big shop for plumbing? The very short and initial answer is no. However, as business grows and volume of work increases, having storage space for bulk materials purchase and acquired tools storage becomes inevitable. You’ll know when that time comes.
Another consideration is tradesman certification from the authority having jurisdiction (state government in most instances). Most localities require a permit to do a plumbing job other than general repairs or replacements in kind, and permits are generally not sold to persons who are not certified in the specific trade (Plumbing) by the state.
I wish you the best in your endeavors. I’ve made a good life in the plumbing industry. It’s hard work but can be very rewarding, and once you have the skills, experience and certifications you will be in reasonably high demand wherever you may choose to go.
Methods of staying updated with plumbing codes can vary some with locality, but generally most states in the US have adopted the International Construction Codes either directly or with modifications. These codes can be accessed free of charge at http://www.iccsafe.org/, including the state modified versions. The real trick however is understanding the codes and their application. A code commentary (also available for purchase on this site) is a big help for this.
Big shop for plumbing? The very short and initial answer is no. However, as business grows and volume of work increases, having storage space for bulk materials purchase and acquired tools storage becomes inevitable. You’ll know when that time comes.
Another consideration is tradesman certification from the authority having jurisdiction (state government in most instances). Most localities require a permit to do a plumbing job other than general repairs or replacements in kind, and permits are generally not sold to persons who are not certified in the specific trade (Plumbing) by the state.
I wish you the best in your endeavors. I’ve made a good life in the plumbing industry. It’s hard work but can be very rewarding, and once you have the skills, experience and certifications you will be in reasonably high demand wherever you may choose to go.
Liam Rielly
Data Center Technician
195
Answers
Manassas, Virginia
Updated
Liam’s Answer
Hey Peyton! I don't know specifically what is required for plumbing but I can describe trades in general. You will spend a bunch of time getting hours worked as a plumber. This in combination with schooling (apprenticeship/ degree/ professional certificate) will allow you to get a journeyman's license and eventually a masters license. After this time you will re-apply for the license every few years depending on what jurisdiction (state/ city/ province) you are in. Usually during that time there will be a request you take code classes again. Code is updated, usually every couple of years, because of the better understanding of safety standards. You will likely do somewhere between a day and a week of training for a code class and this will allow you to re-apply for the license for the next couple of years. Your initial understanding of the code will be what catapults your career, these update classes will just allow your skills to remain relevant on the job. If you don't handle permits and major blueprints, the code changes won't matter to you much. If you are more on the business and engineering side of things, it will be required!
As you are looking from the outside, it is difficult to see what you will need. Once you start to work as a plumber, you will know people that are taking code classes, you will take code classes, and the question about code classes will be general knowledge you have with you from here on out. Classes are usually held by an apprenticeship hall, jurisdictional authority's event, or an equipment distribution warehouse will sponsor an event you can sign up for and attend. If you are planning on being a business, plan on continuing education in this field so you and your skills are up to date!
As you are looking from the outside, it is difficult to see what you will need. Once you start to work as a plumber, you will know people that are taking code classes, you will take code classes, and the question about code classes will be general knowledge you have with you from here on out. Classes are usually held by an apprenticeship hall, jurisdictional authority's event, or an equipment distribution warehouse will sponsor an event you can sign up for and attend. If you are planning on being a business, plan on continuing education in this field so you and your skills are up to date!
Oleg Kushnerov
Construction Project Manager
19
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Oleg’s Answer
Both professions have a strong future and won't be easily replaced by AI. You'll need to keep learning and updating your skills. Diesel engines today are different from those 40 years ago, just as plumbing has evolved from soldering copper pipes to using compression tools for flexible pipes.
You don't need a big shop if there's a hardware store nearby, as you can buy supplies as needed for each job.
To stay busy, it's helpful to learn related skills. For example, a diesel mechanic might also learn about gas engines, and a plumber might learn HVAC skills.
You don't need a big shop if there's a hardware store nearby, as you can buy supplies as needed for each job.
To stay busy, it's helpful to learn related skills. For example, a diesel mechanic might also learn about gas engines, and a plumber might learn HVAC skills.