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How to master success Women in construction Resilience through COVID Your industry magazine
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AUSTRALIA’S NO. 1
Contents
How resilient is our industry? New reports show there is reason for optimism
8
16
28
Features
Regulars
8 Leaders in construction
22 Incolink
In the month of International Women’s Day we hear from four leaders in the construction industry
24 Marsh Insurance
Australian Plumbing Industry magazine
28 Member news
15/306 Albert Street Brunswick VIC 3056 australianplumbingindustry.com.au
38 Product news
Subscription changes To change your details or to unsubscribe, call 1800 133 871 or email info@plumber.com.au
18 Pivoting to protect Fighting the pandemic has needed skills from our industry
20 Plumbing’s silver lining The resilience of the plumbing industry shone through in 2020 and it will rebound to become even stronger
Print post number: PP100019076
Get to know a changing standard New gas standards for LPG
See page 12
Contacts Publisher The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA) E australianplumbing@plumber.com.au
Advertising Marc Wilson T 0419 107 143 E advertising@plumber.com.au
John Tuck is retiring from the business he created 50 years ago. His business is so successful it will continue with his name. John chats about plumbing, business and retirement. Full story, page 26.
Disclaimer API is published for the plumbing industry and Master Plumbers Members by the Master Plumbers’ and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA) ABN: 56 296 473 997. Responsibility for comment in respect of elections in Master Plumbers is taken by Peter Daly of 15/306 Albert Street, Brunswick, VIC, 3056. Advertising: No responsibility is accepted by the publisher for accuracy of information contained in advertisements in API. Publication of any advertisements does not constitute endorsement by the publisher of any product, nor warrant its suitability. Advertisements are published as submitted by advertisers. Copyright: No part of this magazine may be produced without the publisher’s written permission Contributors: The views of external contributors and advertisers are not necessarily the views of Master Plumbers. Master Plumbers supports green printing initiatives. This magazine has been printed on FSC® certified paper using vegetable based inks by Southern Colour under ISO 14001 environmental certification.
4 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
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We need a sustainable and affordable future energy mix
Welcome
from the President and CEO
After years of little progress and policy stagnation in several areas critical to our industry, the Victorian State Government and its agencies have made a solid start to 2021. At a national level, development of legislation to amend the Mutual Recognition Act 1992 by the Prime Minister’s Deregulation Taskforce is underway. This seeks to allow workers to cross borders with an automatic right to work in another jurisdiction without the need to inform or report to that regulator and applies to a wide range of industries. When applied to the plumbing industry, the concept is supported in principle but there remain significant questions about how it is to be implemented without compromising the high standards for public safety in Victoria, which the industry has fought hard to retain. Master Plumbers believes that a workable scheme can be developed for registered plumbers but applying automatic recognition at the licensed (contractor) level is a lot more complex. Where there is like-for-like comparability between both the scope of registered work and the composition of competencies which comprise the prerequisites for registration, automatic mutual recognition of plumbers is both sensible and achievable if they are working for a licensed contractor in that jurisdiction. This would cover around 80 percent of general plumbing work in the industry in a relatively short time, with a genuine collaborative effort needed between government and industry to map a way forward for contractor and specialised licence classes.
It appears that some in the Victorian Government bureaucracy have placed one of our most highly efficient and abundant energy sources in the ideological bad books, with not-so-subtle legislative moves to remove or discourage the use of gas (and gas boosted) appliances in favour of electric heating. There is no doubt that sustainably-generated electricity (such as local photovoltaic installation) has an increasingly important role as an energy source for heating, especially when combined with battery electricity storage. But when it comes to sustainable energy mix, we should not overlook the extensive reticulated gas infrastructure network already in place which can be utilised by the rapidly advancing hydrogen technologies. This storage and distribution network – effectively a hydrogen energy ‘battery’ that dwarfs any conceivable electric battery – must not be overlooked and discarded in the same way we ripped up and built over rail lines, which were sorely needed decades later. Through our close partnership with the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC), which is establishing a $20 million Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Queensland, Master Plumbers will ensure that all options are considered as part of a sustainable and affordable future energy mix. We are also advocating that a rational and thoughtful approach is taken to several areas related to
Type A appliance servicing, with a continued strong push for Victorian adoption in full of AS4575 (servicing standard) and plans under consideration by Government for the regulatory phase-out of open-flued gas appliances. On the insurance front, several reviews are in progress. Master Plumbers continues to advocate that the Victorian Government must address critical discrepancies between the Ministerial Order (Licensed Plumber General Insurance Order) and the Building Act. Plumbers remain potentially liable under the Building Act for 10 years following completion of works, but their Certificate of Currency insurance only covers the first six years. To round off the policy agenda under consideration, we expect a Regulatory Impact Statement for Continuing Professional Development in plumbing to be developed over coming months. As members would be aware, Master Plumbers has an extensive CPD program underway with almost 2,000 now participating. This experience means we are well-placed to provide credible and authoritative input to the process on behalf of members and the broader industry. Scott Dowsett President, Master Plumbers Peter Daly CEO, Master Plumbers www.plumber.com.au | 7
Marnie Williams
Kimberley Smyth
Renee Shankar
Sue Eddy
Leaders in construction March is the month that marks International Women’s Day. To mark the occasion, Kathryn Kernohan spoke to four leaders in the construction industry.
8 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
The construction industry – inclusive of the plumbing industry – is one of Australia’s largest in terms of employment and its significant contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (about 9%). Like many industries, the construction industry remains male dominated. According to the Australia Bureau of Statistics’ most recent Gender Indicators report, just 12.7% of employees in the industry are women. Various reports show the percentage of women who work as tradespeople at one or two per cent. Additionally, in 2019-20 the construction industry had a higher
Marnie Williams Energy Safe Victoria Marnie Williams started her job as Director of Energy Safe Victoria, the state’s safety regulator for electricity, gas and pipelines, in late March 2020. The very next day, the entire workplace went into lockdown as the COVID-19 pandemic forced millions of people to work remotely. “It was a big challenge to work out how to both establish relationships, as well lead the organisation, remotely. Ultimately, we were able to land in a good place and our people did remarkably well,” she says. Energy Safe Victoria enforces energy safe regulations to keep Victorians safe through a wide variety of technical, safety and educational activities targeted at energy companies, tradespeople, and the broader community. COVID-19 provided an opportunity to do some things differently, like during the ‘Be Sure’ campaign which highlights the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and encourages the regular servicing of open-flued gas heaters. “We had to go digital with the campaign because we couldn’t run the face-to-face events – instead, we held a number of webinars in partnership with the Master Plumbers and Victorian Building Authority for tradies which had significant take up.”
proportion of male workers aged 20 to 74 than any other industry. There is reason to hope the gender imbalance will shift. And governments are investing to support it. In Victoria, the Building Gender Equality: Victoria’s Women in Construction Strategy 2019-2022 aims to increase female participation in trades. Master Plumbers provided a submission to the strategy, as a member of the Building Industry Consultative Council (BICC). CEO Peter Daly says: “the only way to achieve a real step change towards better gender-equality outcomes in construction is for us to take an
On January 1, 2021, Energy Safe Victoria became a three-person commission administered by Victoria’s Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change. Marnie is chairperson of three members of the all-female commission. “When it was looking like the whole commission would be female, I actually had to ask people ‘is this OK?’,” she says with a laugh. “They really are the right people for the job and fit the specific qualifications we need, and we had many strong candidates. I am chuffed with how it worked out, though.”
industry-wide approach between employer associations, unions, employers and employees.” Research by Charles Sturt University found that in regional NSW, there was success in programs, including mentoring, networking and all-female teams. To celebrate International Women’s Day (March 8), Australian Plumbing Magazine spoke to four women involved in Australia’s construction and plumbing industry – from those in leadership positions to those on the tools – about their journeys in the industry and why they encourage other women to follow their leads.
“Family and friends laughed at the idea and I lacked the confidence in my early 20s to say I could do it. I didn’t start my mature-age apprenticeship until eight years later. I had four children by then but I had confidence not to listen to any negative opinions,” she says. “I wanted a career that could give my children the life I didn’t have growing up.” There were some challenging times during her days at trade school, but positive mentors made Kimberley sure she was on the right path.
Marnie, who in her spare time is a “crazy gardener with hundreds of roses to keep me occupied,” says her main piece of advice to young women with leadership aspirations is to be proactive.
“At times I felt like I didn’t belong and it did feel isolating, but I’d talk to people I trusted including TAFE teachers and they would push me to keep going and not give up. In saying that, the positive people for women in plumbing outnumber the negative ones I’ve found over the years.”
“Utilise diagnostic tools to better understand your own strengths, let people know your ambitions and goals and find a mentor to get advice from.”
In 2012, she founded Melbournebased Hey Sista Plumbing to support predominately female clients. The business does everything from “maintenance to new builds.”
Kimberley Smyth Hey Sista Plumbing Kimberley Smyth was a mother of two, working as a machine operator for a newspaper, when she started to harbour a desire to follow in her husband’s footsteps and become a plumber.
“My clients know there’s no question too silly and I’m happy to explain anything in a way they understand. It’s important to me while supplying a service I can show my clients that a plumbing career can and should be offered to women who want the opportunity. “I love it when clients call their young daughter in to watch me www.plumber.com.au | 9
work – it opens up great conversations about our daughters and sons and how they should have the opportunity to be happy in their chosen career.” Kimberley also provides reduced rate services to women who have experienced domestic violence. “Seeing a female plumber working for herself gives them hope for the future during a difficult time, while also removing the anxiety of having an unknown tradesman attend the property.”
Renee Shankar ODM Plumbing After 15 years in government public relations roles, Renee Shankar decided it was time for a change. “Two years ago I made the decision to leave my job to spend more time with our family. Around the same time, my husband Owen was looking for consultancy advice to help with the future direction of ODM Plumbing,” she says.
advocate for the contribution women make to the industry “from administration roles to being on the tools”. “Our office manager, for example, is as critical to our operations as the plumbers we have working on site,” she says. “At an industry level, it would be good to see gender diversity reflected and promoted in strategic goals, boards and at leadership levels.” And advice for women considering entering the industry? “Plumbing is a key essential service, from providing clean drinking water, heating and cooling to keeping our cities hygienic and flood free. There is so much variety of work. “The industry can only benefit from your talents – so why not get involved?”
Sue Eddy Victorian Building Authority
“Given my background in public relations and strategic planning, I jumped at the opportunity to get involved. That was in 2019, and I have not looked back since.”
Sue Eddy is passionate about supporting more women to take on leadership roles, and the CEO of Victorian Building Authority (VBA) is proud her organisation practices what it preaches.
Owen founded ODM Plumbing in 2005. The business specialises in commercial plumbing, primarily Government-funded projects such as schools, aged care, retail and sports projects.
“We’re headed by a female CEO and female Chief Commissioner. 50 per cent of our executive leadership team and seven of our 10 Commissioners are female,” she says.
“I initially came on board to update our business plan and implement a range of changes to help streamline operations. Now, I generally focus on contract management and tender bid preparation.”
“The VBA is filled with many outstanding women who contribute to the success of the organisation and help us keep the plumbing and building industry operating.”
2020 provided a range of challenges due to COVID-19, but as Renee says, it was also a year of opportunity.
The VBA regulates building and plumbing practitioners across Victoria, to ensure building and plumbing industries are efficient and competitive.
“We adapted and diversified our business model to include contract maintenance services. As a result, we were recently awarded a three-year contract to provide maintenance services to a local council,” she says.
“In the last few years, we’ve transformed the VBA into an agency that works closely with industry and practitioners to help them do their job and that supports consumers when things go wrong,” explains Sue.
Learning more about the plumbing industry has been one of the most rewarding parts of Renee’s career change – and she is also a strong
“We’ve overseen the state’s response to combustible cladding, which remains at the forefront of global best practice. I’m proud of the
10 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
progress we have made in competency, education and enforcement.” Sue, who was appointed CEO of the VBA in late 2017 after previously working in the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources and the Department of Treasury and Finance, also takes pride in the way the organisation and the broader industry responded to COVID-19. “When coronavirus hit, we worked with stakeholders to create guidelines that meant industry could remain open. It’s a real testament to what can be achieved when industry, government, unions and practitioners all work together for the good of our community.” “Looking forward to 2021 and beyond, I am positive that the building and plumbing industry can continue to grow and contribute significantly to the recovery of the Victorian economy.” That growth includes greater gender diversity – with Sue saying it is incumbent on the industry to do everything possible to attract and retain women. “My advice to young women is to be courageous, pursue your dreams and believe in yourself. Seize opportunities when they arise, give things a go and ask lots of questions. But most of all, work hard at what you want to achieve and never give up.” Master Plumbers has established a new advisory committee led by National Council, dedicated to advancing gender diversity in the industry. The committee comprises David McCarthy, Daniel Smolenaars, Phill Craig and Christopher Unwin. “The benefits of greater diversity in our industry are clear and our focus is on identifying ways we can collectively attract, recruit and retain more women in plumbing. “ says Christopher, who convenes the committee. If you would like to share your ideas and experiences, please contact the Committee via membership@plumber.com.au or call 9329 9622.
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Get to know a
changing standard
Updates to the AS 5601.2.2020 gas standards, LP Gas installations in caravan and boats for non-propulsive purposes, are now in place. Master Plumbers’ technical expert Aaron Bridger takes us through the major changes.
12 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
Addition of new definitions • Domestic Caravan
• Quick-Connect Device (Cylinder)
• Non-Sparking by Nature
• Toughened Glass
• Controlled Area
be “encapsulated” type in LP Gas cylinder compartments, Clauses 3.3.1(G) and 3.3.3(I) • The following points are some of the requirements for an electrical device to be considered “encapsulated” (the remaining can be found under clause 5.3): – Be fully sealed in a flame-retardant box – Provide a minimum IP55 protection – Have no exposed terminals (be pre-fitted with flying leads or be terminated via a mating connection enclosure and cable gland.) – Contain no moving electrical contacts. • Allowance for hard-drawn copper to be used on houseboats on inland waterways on the lowpressure side of the gas installation (Clause 5.1.4.2)
Regulators have introduced cylinder orientation requirements
Domestic Caravan Regulators have introduced cylinder orientation requirements on caravan drawbars to allow for unobstructed relief of cylinder pressure. The cylinder should be orientated so the relief valve discharges away from the car and caravan, usually at a 45-degree angle from the front of the caravan. As the plumber you will not always be installing the gas cylinder but it is advisable to pass this information on to the client. Information can be found in Clause 3.1.4 and figure 3.1.4. A prohibition of in-situ fill cylinders on caravans, boats however may have an in-situ fill cylinder installed if it can be demonstrated to the technical regulator that by its design or location the gas installation is safe. (Clauses 2.4.5 and 3.1.5.1).
Controlled Area New Information and figures showing the controlled area and clearances required on a caravan drawbar from surrounding ignition sources vary dependant on the cylinder size. Figure 3.1.8(A) refers
to cylinders nominally 10kg or less and figure 3.1.8(B) refers to cylinders nominally exceeding 10kg. A controlled area should include a label informing people that the cylinders should be isolated when not in use or in transit. Further information is located in clause 3.1.8.
Other major changes or additions in the new standard • A new figure showing venting via a drain outlet from a cylinder compartment in a caravan, you must ensure the outlet of the drain is at least 1500mm from any source of ignition. (Figure 3.3.1(B) pg. 35) Note: A car or motorhome exhaust pipe is considered a source of ignition. • Clarification of access to internal cylinder compartments in caravans and a reduction in maximum cylinder size (now no more than two 10kg). Further information is located in Clause 3.3.4.1 • Introduction of the requirement for shut off solenoid valves to
• Limiting hose assembly pig tails to be only Class F. An excess flow valve must be immediately up stream of the hose assembly, the excess flow valve may be an integral part of the cylinder quick-connect device. Hose assembly must comply with AS/NZS 1869. (Clause 5.1.4.3) • Prohibition on the use of press-fit connections (Viega, Kempress, B press, etc.). While press-fit was never an approved method for jointing of pipe, it has now been defined as prohibited in the new standards. (Clause 5.1.4.4(G)) • Increased requirements for new installations of distance between cookers and range hoods. You now require a minimum of 650mm clearance between the range hood and supporting surface of the cooking vessel. Along with a 650mm clearance to any other downward facing combustible surface this can be reduced if you can comply with clause 6.11.2 but in any case cannot be less than 450mm. Exiting installations, prior to the date of adoption of the new standards will be 600mm clearance between range hood www.plumber.com.au | 13
If the 650mm clearance cannot be met a range hood constructed of non-combustible material may be installed at a lower clearance provided it meets the following: • The range hood is installed at the clearance specified by the range hood manufactures installation instructions.
• The gas appliance manufactures installation instructions allow for the range hood to be installed at less than 650mm.
• It is installed at a minimum of 450mm clearance in all cases. More information can be found at clause 6.11.1.
Master Plumbers’ technical advisor, Aaron Bridger is an award-winning plumber who has run his own business and is now taking on the privilege of supporting the broader industry. Among his awards are the Master Plumbers Andrew Letten Gold Medal Award, NA Smith Gas Award (Plumbing & Fire Industry awards) and first place in the 2015 apprentice skill competition. He also represented Australia in the 2015 & 2016 Community Plumbing Challenge Community Aid Project and the United Association Plumbing Competition. Aaron writes technical articles for the magazine and provides further information at plumber.com.au
and cooktop, provided the manufactures specifications do not require a greater clearance. • Where a carbon monoxide detector is to be installed in a boat, that is impractical to use without covering the permanent ventilation the carbon monoxide detectors must now conform with EN 50291-1 and UL 2034 these are internationally recognized standards. (Clause 7.5) • Additional requirements for toughened safety glass used as a cooker splash back – the glass is required to be marked “toughened safety glass” if it is not marked, documentation from the glass manufacturer is required to confirm it is toughened glass. • Reconstituted stone or quartz surfaces contain polymer resins and may not meet the requirements set out in B.2. For further information see Appendix B • Updated gas pipe sizing tables have changed the MJ/h allowance, this is slightly different to the existing tables, the new ones can be found in Appendix C • Introduction of requirements for purging gas pipelines, as Appendix L is a large piece of information, it best to have a read through this one. 14 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
Simulated Gas Explosion
To finish off the noted changes,
It’s important to adopt standard
the normative references have
changes so we can continually
been relocated to clause 1.2.
improve safety for the public and
As you can see there has been
reputation of our industry.
quite a few changes to the
If you are in this field of work, it will
standards and I believe they will
be helpful to know what specific
be welcomed by most.
changes you are looking out for.
Is your business insurance coming up for renewal? As a plumber, you have a lot on your plate. From juggling multiple jobs and clients to managing and training staff, the last thing you need to be bogged down with is an annual insurance renewal. For any questions or assistance with your insurance renewal, you can contact our dedicated Trades team on 1300 300 511 or at tradesAustralia@marsh.com.
Looking to review your insurance policy? Visit www.marshplumbers.com.au to get a quote and arrange your public liability insurance online. Marsh Advantage Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 31 081 358 303, AFSL 238 369)(Marsh) arrange this insurance and are not an insurer. When arranging Public Liability Insurance, Marsh act under binding authority on behalf of Pacific Underwriting Corporation Pty Ltd (ABN 77 091 225 535, AFSL 237 270), who act as agent of the insurer, Chubb Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL 239 687). This brochure contains general information, does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs and may not suit your personal circumstances. For full details of the terms, conditions and limitations of the covers and before making any decision about whether to acquire the product, refer to the specific policy wordings available from Marsh. The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia receives a financial benefit when an insurance policy is arranged by Marsh. LCPA 21/020. S20-0141
Copyright © 2021 Marsh Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.
How resilient is our industry? The construction industry has been more resilient than many other industries and there is positivity about both the short and long-term futures ahead of us
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is still being felt across many aspects of our lives, but new reports show there is reason for optimism. Kathryn Kernohan reports. The National Skills Commission recently released a report, Understanding the shape of Australia’s post-COVID-19 workforce, to explore the nature of Australia’s labour market and skills recovery from the pandemic. The report uses a framework to rank occupations according to their resilience during COVID-19 as well as their likely recovery prospects. This framework was developed by combining data on employment growth expectations before COVID-19 with data relating to the employment experience of occupations during the pandemic and early indications of recovery.
16 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
This allows the National Skills Commission (NSC) to list some of the most resilient occupations, that have been less impacted by COVID-19 and have strong future prospects, and the industries in which they sit. It finds that more than half of employment in resilient occupations is accounted for by three industries – with the construction industry (14.5%) sitting in between health care and social assistance (26.6%) and education and training (13%). “All industries have been impacted to some capacity by COVID-19, but this report highlights that the construction industry has been more resilient than many other industries and that there is positivity about both the short and long-term futures ahead of us,” says Peter Daly, CEO of Master Plumbers. “A raft of infrastructure projects right across the country have been funded or fast-tracked as a direct result of COVID-19, including $1 billion in funding for shovel-ready projects announced by the Federal Government last June. In addition,
incentives and grants for people to build or renovate homes will ensure a continual pipeline of work for our industry.” The NSC report finds that employment is now higher than pre-pandemic levels in seven industries, including electricity, gas, water and waste services. It also concludes that trends that were established out of necessity during 2020, such as increased digitisation and remote working practices, are likely to continue in the short-term. This is not the first report to predict what the future of the plumbing industry, and broader construction sector, will look like as we continue to navigate the pandemic. IBISWorld’s recent Plumbing Services in Australia report predicts increased demand in the non-residential construction sector moving forward. The BCI Forecaster, a regular indicator of construction contract values, also found a 26% increase in the value of projects in the October to December quarter in comparison to the previous quarter.
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www.plumber.com.au | 17
Fighting the pandemic has needed skills from our industry. Kathryn Kernohan reports on how Master Plumbers’ member organisation, Westaflex, answered the call to manufacture a product, which now supports frontline health care workers. Westaflex has provided customers with quality heating, ventilation and air conditioning products for more than 45 years – with the health care sector one of the industries it regularly services. But when COVID-19 hit Australia in early 2020, Westaflex shifted its focus to help manufacture an innovative new product for the industry – one that supported frontline health care workers in their fight against the pandemic. “It was April 2020 when we were first approached to assist with the concept of an ICU hood, and the first deliveries of products were made to Western Health a couple of months later, so it all happened very quickly,” remembers Michael Sterling, General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Westaflex.
18 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
The concept of an ICU hood – a personalised ventilation hood to protect health care workers from catching COVID-19 while treating sick patients – came about when Associate Professor Forbes McGain from Western Health contacted Professor Jason Monty, head of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Melbourne. “We met with Professor Monty to talk through their concept and to demonstrate it, they had grabbed bits and pieces from shelves at Bunnings to prove the system would do what they were after. It was our job to look at purposebuilt equipment to ensure it would be quiet and efficient,” says Michael. The personalised hood, now known as the McMonty Medihood, is designed to be installed behind a
hospital bed and to cover a patient’s upper body and is large enough to accommodate other medical equipment. It reduces the risk of infection for health care workers, while allowing for easy communication and visual welfare checks. The unit has a fan at the rear to pull air over the patient, and a high-efficiency H13 filter to clean and scrub the air of small droplets of the virus. This is vital protection, as droplets expelled through coughing, sneezing and speaking are a key way in which COVID-19 is transmitted. “This is more about protecting our health care workers – we know that the patients are already sick and in the hands of professionals for treatment. This creates a physical
Image courtesy of Rural Doctors Association, Forbes McGain and Medihood
The unit has a fan at the rear to pull air over the patient, and a high-efficiency H13 filter to clean and scrub the air of small droplets of the virus. barrier between health care workers and patients, to reduce the spread of the virus, and ensure they can still deliver quality health care.” The hoods were successfully trialled at Western Health, and similar versions are now being used in hospitals in Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania. “The products seem to be doing really well but there was an issue where patients with dementia could get scared by the hood being on them. So we worked on building the same system that can be presented as a tower next to the patient while providing the same level of protection to health care workers,” says Michael. Just eight weeks passed from concept to prototype testing to production and installation of these adapted units. Westaflex was founded in Melbourne by Michael’s parents, Ed and Elizabeth Sterling, in 1974.
In the 1980s, the business expanded to other cities across Australia. When Ed passed away in 1992, Michael and his brother Paul joined their mother to help run the business. “My mother still runs the business as owner and Managing Director but she is not as involved as she used to be. Paul and I run the business day-to-day,” says Michael. In 2010, the business moved to the most modern plastics manufacturing facility in Australia, in the Melbourne suburb of Heidelberg West. The building has a state-of-the-art warehousing system with cable guided forklifts which has increased pallet storage to 1300 pallets. From here, Westaflex manufactures and sells a range of products relating to ducting, fittings, ventilation, refrigeration and thermostats. It has also developed the Westaflex CONNECT system which allows users to control their air conditioning, lights, power,
This is vital protection, as droplets expelled through coughing, sneezing and speaking are a key way in which COVID-19 is transmitted.
irrigation system, ducted heating and garage doors via the touch of a smartphone or tablet. Australia is still living with the volatility of COVID outbreaks but many parts of Europe and North America are more severely impacted, experiencing extremely high case numbers and deaths. So it is little surprise that the McMonty Medihood is being seen as an innovative and effective way to promote the safety of health care workers in some systems that are already stretched beyond capacity. “We have been quoting internationally and there is definitely a lot of interest, so we anticipate this will be a big focus of ours again throughout 2021.”
www.plumber.com.au | 19
The resilience of the plumbing industry shone through in 2020 and it will rebound to become even stronger. Kathryn Kernohan reports.
All corners of the world have shared the significant challenges and interruptions brought about by last year’s catastrophic COVID pandemic and the ongoing climate change crisis. These issues are having an unprecedented impact on both the plumbing and broader construction industries. A recent report by global consultancy management firm McKinsey and Company explores an expected radical shift in the construction industry, comprising real estate, infrastructure and industrial structures. As the report outlines, the global construction industry had already been undergoing transformation, but that industry leaders broadly agree that these changes will be accelerated due to the impact of COVID-19. In the past couple of decades, the construction industry has been “plagued by dismal performance” and profitability is low, according to the report. “As challenging as 2020 has been for plumbing and broader construction 20 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
industry, the silver lining of this crisis is that we now have an opportunity to reshape to ensure we are more agile, effective and resilient moving forward,” says Master Plumbers CEO Peter Daly. “We know that here in Australia, there has been subdued revenue growth in plumbing for the five years following the GFC. COVID-19 has clearly had, and will continue to have, a detrimental impact on the productivity and profitability of many businesses, but it has also led to Government investments into a range of infrastructure projects as well as incentives for people building and renovating homes. This increases the pipeline of opportunities for our sector and will hopefully provide the confidence for businesses to invest in a skilled, more stable workforce and better preparedness for digital innovations in the sector.”
characteristics as the catalyst for change, including a scarcity of skilled labour, cost pressures from infrastructure and affordable housing and stricter regulations around work-site sustainability and safety, all of which are issues applicable to Australia as well as other countries. The issue of affordable housing is one that has direct correlations to COVID-19, with McKinsey and Company analysis finding that every third global urban household cannot afford a decent place to live at market rates and that these challenges have been exacerbated by the pandemic. The report also finds that skilled labour shortages have become a major issue in several markets, and that close to half (41 per cent) of the current construction workforce in the US is expected to retire by 2031.
McKinsey and Company’s report forecasts direct responses to the pandemic such as an increase of remote working practices.
This is reflected closer to home, where a significant skills shortage in the plumbing industry has been identified by the Federal Government’s Department of Education, Skills and Employment.
It identifies a range of market
A recent snapshot by the Australian
We now have an opportunity to reshape… to ensure we are more agile, effective and resilient moving forward
Bureau of Statistics covering the period of March to July 2020, spanning the first round of COVID-19 restrictions, found that approximately 81,700 workers had been lost to the building and construction industries during that time. More than 50,000 of these were in Victoria and New South Wales. McKinsey and Company outline nine shifts that will fundamentally change the construction industry. This includes greater specialisation within the industry, with the prediction that companies will refine their services to focus on areas such as luxury housing, multi-storey residential buildings or hospitals. Another expected shift is an additional focus on branding, allowing smaller businesses to attract and retain customers and showcase their value, service quality and reliability.
Increased investment in technology and human resources are among the other areas highlighted. The report predicts that globally, construction activity could be back to pre-pandemic levels by the first half of 2021, but that it may not occur until 2024 or even later.
27,300
IBISWorld’s recent Plumbing Services in Australia report predicted that there will be reduced demand for plumbing services throughout 2021 but an expected increased demand in the non-residential construction sector moving forward.
65,300
McKinsey and Company’s fundamental observation that the current crisis will lead to new opportunities moving forward resonates with Peter Daly.
18,185
“We know that the plumbing industry will not only survive this crisis but also rebound strongly. Research and analysis, like this report, shows us that businesses and traders which adapt to the changing nature of the industry have every opportunity to thrive as we navigate the ‘new normal’.”
$17.5bn
$86.2bn IBIS **Infrastructure Australia
*
The number of plumbing businesses in Australia*
The number of people employed in the plumbing industry*
The number of apprentices employed in the construction trade, including plumbers*
Current revenue generated by the plumbing industry*
The estimated total cost of current and proposed infrastructure projects across Australia**
www.plumber.com.au | 21
Marsh Advantage Insurance Promotion
Things to remember at renewal time Natasha Golden, Principal Insurance Broker for the Marsh trades team With a number of years up my sleeve assisting businesses with their insurance renewals, I’ve seen the unnecessary stress that can be placed on an owner’s shoulders if they accidentally leave their renewal to the last minute.
Some things to have handy when completing a declaration form:
To help combat last-minute-itis, below are some key tips to help plumbers navigate their insurance renewal.
• Business Activity – have you expanded your business activity since last renewal?
Important reminder: Marsh Plumbers Public Liability Insurance is underwritten by Chubb Insurance Australia Limited and meets the minimum liability insurance requirements set by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Already with Marsh? Six weeks before your insurance renewal, our team will send you an email that includes a renewal declaration form. Essentially, a renewal declaration is a questionnaire that when completed will provide a snapshot of your business to help us ensure your renewal terms match your current business insurance needs. You will receive reminders along the way, however be sure to complete the renewal declaration early so we are able to finalise and provide your Certificate of Currency as soon as possible.
• Current turnover amount • Number of plumbers • Annual payable amount to sub-contractors
• Claims – have you made or needed to make an insurance claim, know of a claim that is yet to be lodged or are aware of a third-party claim or potential claim that may be made against your business? Once you’ve provided your renewal declaration and the insurance premium payment has been made, Marsh will send across your Certificate of Currency. If you are a Victorian plumber, we will also send your Certificate of Currency directly to the VBA to assist with finalisation of your plumbing license renewal. Looking for alternatives? From sole traders to companies with ten or more employees, Marsh can help arrange insurance solutions for plumbing businesses of all sizes. We have developed an online tool for small to medium-sized plumbing
business that allows you to get a quick quote and arrange public liability cover online. If you are a large plumbing business, have a claims history, and/or provide complex business activities such as offering full bathroom renovations, we can still support your insurance needs. To get started, please contact the trades team so we can tailor a solution that meets the needs of your business. Did you know! As an insurance broker, Marsh has access to a range of insurance providers and products. We not only assist with public liability cover, but can also help arrange the following types of insurance: • Commercial Motor • Tools & Equipment • Professional Indemnity • Property • Personal Accident • And much more. Got a question? Contact the Marsh Trades team Phone: 1300 300 511 Email: trades.australia@ marshadvantage.com Website: marshplumbers.com.au
Marsh Advantage Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 31 081 358 303, AFSL 238 369)(Marsh) arrange this insurance and are not an insurer. When arranging Public Liability Insurance, Marsh acts under binding authority on behalf of Pacific Underwriting Corporation Pty Ltd (ABN 77 091 225 535, AFSL 237 270), who act as agent of the insurer, Chubb Insurance Australia Limited (ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL 239 687). This brochure contains general information, does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs and may not suit your personal circumstances. For full details of the terms, conditions and limitations of the covers and before making any decision about whether to acquire the product, refer to the specific policy wordings available from Marsh. The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia receives a financial benefit when an insurance policy is arranged by Marsh. LCPA No. 21/019.
24 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
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Residential | Rural | Commercial
www.plumber.com.au | 25
One of the main things I have is connections with the community. A lot of our residential clients are grandchildren of clients my grandfather used to work with, and to build that trust and those personal relationships over many years are really important.
How to build a successful business
26 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
John Tuck is retiring from the business he created 50 years ago. His business is so successful it will continue with his name. Kathryn Kernohan chats to John about plumbing, business and retirement. After almost 50 years in the plumbing industry, John Tuck recently swapped the tools for a caravan. The former Director of Melbourne’s fourth-generation family business, Tuck Plumbing, described his impending retirement as “a bit surreal” when he spoke to Master Plumbers during his final weeks. “I’m actually finding it really hard because there is a finality to it after talking about it for a while. Particularly when I am emailing and calling people to let them know [I am retiring], it is quite difficult,” he said. “My wife is a teacher and she is retiring too, so we have talked about travelling around Australia in a caravan. When we are able to travel overseas again, we will be keen to do that too. We are both the sort of people who don’t like to sit still, so we will certainly have a lot of plans.” Tuck Plumbing will continue to live on, with John having sold the business to a long-term employee. “Mitchell, who will own the business, has been with us for 13 years and he is definitely part of the Tuck Plumbing family. I think he will build on the business, we used to be bigger but in the past few
years we’ve cut back to just a couple of guys.” With a laugh, John described himself as “a bit of a control freak” – one of the reasons it was so hard for him to say goodbye. “I really like to be hands-on with the business – we offer a high standard of service and I like to be across all aspects of what we are doing. I am still on the tools myself but not as much as I used to be.” John’s grandfather founded his plumbing business in the 1930s, and his father, uncle and other relatives all worked together at various points. “When my dad was about 40, he decided that he would leave the plumbing industry and become a dairy farmer, as we lived on a farm near Shepparton. So I decided to move to Melbourne and pursue plumbing,” he said. John entered the industry in 1973, two years later won Master Plumbers’ prestigious Andrew Letten Gold Medal, the highest industry award given to plumbing apprentices in Victoria, and has not looked back since. Tuck Plumbing performs an even split of residential and commercial services. Residential services include hot water service supply and installations, water service repair and renewals, gutter and roofing repairs, maintenance and replacements and gas fitting installations.
council buildings and commercial real estate agencies. Tuck Plumbing works with commercial clients both on an ‘on call’ basis and via annual contracts. John said the majority of the business’ work comes from word of mouth recommendations, and that customer service is key to its longevity. “Customer service drives the business. It is all about communication, like letting the customer know if you’re running late and returning phone calls and e-mails quickly, as well as providing a high standard of work. “One of the main things I have is connections with the community. A lot of our residential clients are grandchildren of clients my grandfather used to work with, and to build that trust and those personal relationships over many years are really important. People know that when they call the business they’ll speak directly to me, and that I am personally on hand to chat about anything along the way.” And as for whether John’s son felt any pressure to follow his father, grandfather and great-grandfather into the plumbing trade? “There was never any pressure from us and in the end, because he saw me working all hours of the day and night, he decided to become a chartered accountant.”
Commercial clients include schools, aged care facilities, shops, hotels,
www.plumber.com.au | 27
Member news
Members reached out in record numbers with over 1,500 calls seeking advice on COVID-19 and other issues
Evolving for the future Master Plumbers is proud to have served our community of members and our industry throughout 2020. In this extract from the 2020 Annual Report, Master Plumbers shows how and looks forward to 2021. From devastating bushfires to a health and economic crisis, 2020 challenged us at every level. It was a test of leadership, of systems and relationships. And it was a testament to the power of communities to keep us connected, supported and safe.
Responding to a crisis Over recent years, Master Plumbers has undertaken a measured expansion, strategically investing in the technology, capability and networks to be able to respond to the ever-changing demands on our industry. When the crisis hit, Master Plumbers was ready to respond and deliver. And, we will continue to be ready and to evolve to meet the needs of members.
The importance of staying connected Master Plumbers quickly established a wide range of online forums and seminars, providing members with an important vehicle to share experiences, ask questions, and provide advice to one another. They covered issues including information on apprenticeships, how training 28 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
would work in the pandemic and advice on how to have difficult conversations with staff about redundancy. The team of experts at Master Plumbers were available around the clock to respond to members and provide tailored advice. We recruited staff across the entire business to call every member to check on their welfare, ask what support they needed and explain what help was available. Membership fees were frozen on 1 July and flexible payment plans offered to ensure members experiencing financial difficulty could continue to access their benefits and the support of the Association. The increase in member support and engagement in 2020 is reflected in the year-on-year comparison with 2019 including:
More meaningful membership In 2020, Master Plumbers’ membership grew to 932 members, the highest on record. Core to this growth has been our ability to shape and deliver benefits that are meaningful and relevant to our members. From early in this crisis Master Plumbers strongly encouraged members to plan for the future recognising that by doing so, businesses could come out of the crisis leaner, more competitive and better able to respond to market needs. Lockdown forced most of us on to digital platforms and for businesses, it highlighted the critical importance of having a digital presence in the market. And while some businesses were well set-up, many were not.
• Visits to plumber.com.au increased by 17 per cent
Members reached out to Master Plumbers’ experts in record numbers with over 1,500 calls seeking advice on COVID-19, industrial relations, workplace health and safety or technical issues. We expanded our technical advice team to be able to respond to the volume and complexity of issues members have requested support for.
• More than 57k video views.
Continured on page 30
• Master Plumbers sent more than 100k emails to members (up 22%) • Social media audience grew to 11,695 (up 20%)
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However, the Xsential Active Soft XC800 hard water treatment system uses revolutionary technology which is based on the scientific process of chelation. Active Soft chelates (binds) and sequesters (isolates) the scale causing calcium ions, preventing them from forming scale, by placing the ions into suspension.
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www.plumber.com.au | 29
Member news
We spent more time with members discussing their business challenges and we look forward to engaging in more conversations over the year ahead as our economy moves into a stage of recovery.
Advocacy Representing over 900 businesses employing more than 5,000 plumbing professionals, Master Plumbers has long played the role of conduit between government(s) and those businesses and individuals. Never has this two-way communication role been more important than during COVID. The Association focused on ensuring that governments and decisionmaking bodies fully understood the vital role plumbing plays in the health of the community and that the COVID restrictions allowed for vital maintenance and emergency plumbing works to continue. The Association’s advocacy was crucial to ensuring the COVID crisis did not parlay into a broader health crisis or associated catastrophe. We worked with government and our industry stakeholders to design the layers of detail necessary to ensure that in domestic, commercial and public buildings the water was clean and safe, HVAC operated safely, and that vital industries, like energy generation, kept operating in a COVID safe way. The results include a suite of COVID operating protocols 30 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
for the construction industry which reflect tailored measures for the plumbing industry. Master Plumbers will continue to work with key government and industry stakeholders as we shape our new COVD-normal.
Training our industry Training is a critical part of Master Plumbers’ value to our members and the role we play in supporting the future of our industry. In 2020, Master Plumbers commenced classes at our new $30 million state-of-the-art training facility in Narre Warren, opened in a partnership with the Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC) and the Plumbing Union. The new campus combines the latest plumbing technology with modern teaching facilities and extends our offering into one of the most rapidly growing regions of Melbourne. Adding to the campuses in Geelong and Brunswick, this new facility extends Master Plumbers’ proud reputation of providing industry-leading graduate and post-graduate education. When COVID-19 hit, the Master Plumbers team mobilised immediately to ensure apprentice training could continue with limited disruption. As much content as possible was moved online and for those components that required face-to-face learning, the team
Master Plumbers has long played the role of conduit between government(s) and those businesses and individuals
ensured a COVID safe environment. We were also successful in advocacy to Victorian Government to support industry not for profit RTOs as well as TAFEs with a $200,000 grant to develop online training resources and in seeking an exemption to allow critical post trade training to be held.
Group training It has been a significant year for Master Plumbers Group Training Organisation. During COVID-19, the team built on the strong relationships with our host employers to help them put COVID safe plans in place, comply with rapidly evolving restrictions and access all available subsidies and support. Our Field Officers, all of whom hold formal OHS qualifications, spent a significant amount of time working with both the apprentices and hosts in supporting them through a period of significant disruption and uncertainty. Master Plumbers communicated regularly with decision makers throughout the pandemic regarding impacts on group training and apprentices. Master Plumbers is also pleased to report that apprentices and plumbing businesses in Queensland will be able to access Master Plumbers Group Training in a new partnership between Master Plumbers Queensland and the Continured on page 32
v
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CONTACT PAV OR PAQ FOR SKILLED AND RELIABLE APPRENTICES
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Sewerquip has had a name change.
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Phone 1800 816 830 or visit enviroline.net.au
www.plumber.com.au | 31
Member news
Master Plumbers and the Mechanical Services Association of Australia. In October 2020, following news that a Queensland-based group training provider, All Trades Queensland Pty Ltd had been placed in Administration, Master Plumbers formed Plumbing Apprentices Queensland (PAQ), a joint venture to save as many Queensland plumbing apprentice jobs and livelihoods as possible. We welcome our new PAQ team and look forward to a successful year ahead.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Master Plumbers continues our commitment to lifelong learning and future-proofing our industry through our Continuing Professional Development program. In 2020, CPD participation surpassed 2,200 participants, almost tripling
Fast Fact
32 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
numbers since the previous year. In 2021, we will be introducing a new-look CPD portal and online course-directory to make it easier to find the course you want and track your learning.
Thank you to our member community and industry stakeholders for your ongoing strength and commitment. We look forward to supporting your continued success.
In early 2020, Master Plumbers supported a proposed Victorian Government framework that will require registered building practitioners and plumbers to undertake continuing professional development. We recognise that a regulated CPD scheme would impose costs on practitioners and employers, however we believe the benefits, in terms of compliance, consumer protection and community safety, significantly outweigh those costs. We will continue to inform and engage with members as the Government progresses the proposal further next year.
Master Plumbers had record membership during 2020
In 2020, CPD participation has surpassed 2,200 participants, almost tripling numbers since the previous year
You can download a copy of the Master Plumbers 2020 Annual Report at plumber.com.au
932
Members
representing approximately
5,000
Plumbing professionals
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www.plumber.com.au | 33
Member news Top industry awards The annual Master Plumbers Apprentice Awards is one of the highlights on the industry calendar – and has a rich history of promoting, celebrating and rewarding the highest achieving Plumbing Apprenticeships Victoria (PAV) and Master Plumbers Registered Training Organisation (RTO) apprentices. Congratulations to the 2020 Apprentice Awards winners who were announced at Master Plumbers’ Annual General Meeting in December. At the celebration, Board President Scott Dowsett said that the awards “are at the heart of what Master Plumbers is here to support – the future and success of the industry.” The four major PAV awards include the Sir Rohan Delacombe 1st Year Apprentice Award, the Peter Pratt 2nd Year Apprentice Award, the Don Pritchard 3rd Year Apprentice Award and the Alfred Atherton 4th Year Apprentice Award. These awards are named in honour of individuals who have made a significant contribution to the plumbing industry in Australia.
Fast Facts
This year, there were joint winners of the 3rd Year Apprentice Award (Will McEvoy and Marco D’Aversa) as well as the 4th Year Apprentice Award (Harley Volgyesi and Bryson Bonnett). Shi Tong won the 1st Year Apprentice Award and Matthew Pulvirenti was the recipient of the 2nd Year Apprentice Award. “I enjoy working in the plumbing industry because there’s so much variety, there’s always support for anything you ask and [my host, PAV] is always there to help,” says Matthew, who has gained experience in both the domestic and commercial sectors during his apprenticeship. For fourth year apprentice Bryson,
the award is validation for his hard work to establish his plumbing career. “It means a lot winning this award because I’ve put in hard years [over] the last four years. It’s been a very great experience.” The RTO Most Outstanding Apprentice awards were also announced in 1st Year (Daniel Cooper), 2nd Year (Ashley Hobbs) and the Most Outstanding 3rd Year Apprentice categories for General Plumbing (Alex Christodoulou) and Mechanical Services (Joshua Traine).
Five reasons to join Plumbing Apprentices Victoria 1 We pay more. We care more. 2 Benefit from job placements in different plumbing companies in commercial, industrial and domestic sectors.
3 Get through the VBA Journeyman’s exam the first time.
34 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
4 Get access to our private
Registered Training Organisation in state of the art facilities.
5 Transition straight into employment
when you finish your apprenticeship. Find out more at plumber.com.au
Joshua
It means a lot winning this award because I’ve put in hard years over the last four years. It’s been a very great experience.
Bryson
Traine
tt
Bonne
voy Will McE
Ashley Hobbs
Alex Christo
doulou
Harley Volgyesi
Matthew Pulvi ren
ti
I enjoy working in the plumbing industry because there’s so much variety, there’s always support for anything you ask and [my host, PAV] is always there to help.
Marco D’Aversa
Shi To
ng
er
l Coop
Danie
www.plumber.com.au | 35
Member news
Master Plumbers has a collection of old tools and interesting artefacts, all donated by members
Tool and artefact collection Peter Jensen, self-appointed curator and Master Plumbers’ National Councillor, takes us into the archives to see the treasures of a bygone era. Many will be aware that Master Plumbers has a collection of old tools and interesting, rare plumbing products, fixtures and other paraphernalia, all donated by members. I helped transport the collection from our former headquarters in King Street, Melbourne to its current location; a 40-foot shipping container in Brunswick. Until recently, the contents were largely unknown. To change this, I have set about photographing and organising the items into categories starting with tools, appliances, fittings/materials and books/manuals.
We have set up an account with eHive a web-based system that will help catalogue and organise the items. Eventually, we will be able to provide access to members to view and share information. It is hoped members may help to provide further information and details about the items; as many remain a mystery.
If you have something of interest you might like to donate or loan, please contact me so that I can look at them for the collection. It doesn’t have to be items like those I have picked out for the article; you can include things like:
Some of the existing items that caught my eye are listed below:
• Manuals, brochures, catalogues.
• Mixed hand tools. • 9.75 pint blow lamp, used to heat soldering irons and melting down lead. • Chip heater, recently donated by member Phil Kelly. • Test bucket.
• Old manufacturers and company signs. • Interesting photos of trucks and staff in the workshop. These can be reproduced and returned. • It’s good to include the personal background story behind the article, like the cast iron spouting, rain head and downpipe from on old church in Moonee Ponds in our collection. To contact Peter, please email jensenpeterk@gmail.com
Blow lamp: 1800’s-mid-1900’s. Donated by Worboys Plumbing. Used to melt down lead to pour into cast iron sanitary pipe joints, heat pitch to seal malthoid roof membrane systems or boil the billy.
36 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
Test bucket: Used from 1950’s-1990’s. Donated by Worboys Plumbing. Home made from a steel bucket that operates on the same principle as the modern systems. Used to pressurise a water service prior to water being available on the site.
Chip heater: Made in 1948. Never used. Donated by member Phil Kelly, whose client gave it to him. Used to heat water from a small fire box using wood chips from the wood heap.
Cbus Promotion
Protect your super from scammers Australians lost more than $176 million to scams in the last year with over 216,000 scams reported to Scamwatch, a group run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). Since the COVID-19 outbreak, more than 5,170 scams reported were related to the virus, resulting in losses of more than $6.2 million. Scams target people of all backgrounds, ages and income levels across Australia. There’s no one group of people who are more likely to become a victim of a scam, all of us may be vulnerable to a scam at some time.
The two common ways that scammers will try to deceive people out of their super is through identity theft and false investment scams. Be alert to the fact that scams exist and protect your identity by: • Not opening suspicious texts, pop-up windows or click on links or attachments in emails – delete them.
• Keeping your personal details and devices secure.
• Not responding to phone calls about your computer asking for remote access – hang up.
• Staying wary of unusual payment requests, especially for your details or money.
• Regularly reviewing your privacy and security settings online.
For more information on how to protect yourself from scams, visit Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) or the Australian Cyber Security Centre (cyber.gov.au). This article was brought to you by Cbus, the industry super fund for building, construction and allied industries as guidance only and does not constitute as advice. Cbus encourages employers to seek their own independent advice in relation to scams. For more information about Cbus, visit www.cbussuper.com.au or call 1300 361 784. Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262
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Our dedicated and experienced statebased teams can help get your super sorted so you can get on with running your business. Contact Daniel for your business super needs
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You should read the Employer Handbook, Cbus Industry Superannuation Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and other relevant documentation to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au
Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262. www.plumber.com.au | 37
Product news Aussie Pumps Jetter Aussie Pumps, the country’s leading drain cleaning Jetter manufacturer, is gearing up for a busy year. The company is experiencing a big sales surge from plumbers upgrading to jetters. Aussie Jetters clear chokes faster, have a longer reach, leave the work site clean and are safer to use. Aussie Pumps offer a range of Class A Jetters that can be used without RTO operator certification, and Class B machines for those requiring more grunt. The Government’s Instant Tax Write-off Scheme also gives plumbers the chance to claim back a significant portion of the cost of a new jetter. For more information, call 02 8865 3500.
Phoenix tapware A part of The Phoenix Builders Collection, our Arlo collections features a timeless, understated design and robust construction, ideal for any kitchen and bathroom. The products offered in this collection have been specially selected to suit the needs of builders – they are convenient to install and a budget friendly option for bulk builds. In the Phoenix Builders Collection, the rough-in kits and trim kits are sold separately for the: • Shower / Wall Mixer • Shower / Bath Diverter Mixer • Wall Mixer Set 200mm This allows our customers to complete the rough-in stage before the final tapware selection needs to be made. For more information, visit www.phoenixtapware.com.au 38 | Australian Plumbing Industry Magazine | Autumn 2021
RIDGID Digital Reporting Monitor The RIDGID CS65XR Digital Reporting Monitor with Wi-Fi is a powerful, all-in-one reporting solution for plumbing diagnostics. Key features include a crisp 162mm, 1024 x 768 XGA high resolution and daylight viewable display for exceptional viewing on the jobsite, a water-resistant keyboard, a durable
128GB internal SSD, which provides ample storage for multiple jobs and dual USB ports giving you the ability to make up to two copies of the job at once. Full-featured reporting software allows for fast, efficient onsite reporting and integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allows live inspection streaming on an iOS or Android
Xsential water filtration systems Active Soft XC800-S If you have issues from lime scale or hard water, Xsential has your solution – the Active Soft XC800-S. This revolutionary product, new on the Australian market, conditions water to reduce scale build up in plumbing fittings, shower-screens and appliances such as washing machines, coffee machines and dishwashers. Active Soft uses revolutionary technology based on the scientific process of chelation. Instead of removing excess calcium
like traditional water softeners, it chelates (binds) and sequesters (isolates) the calcium ions, preventing them from forming scale. Active Soft XC800-S is simple to install, economical, easy to maintain and better for the environment than traditional ion exchange water softeners. Wholesale and distribution enquiries welcome. For more information, call 1300 366 295 or email sales@xsential.com.au
device. There is also a free HQx Live app. The CS65XR monitor supports SeeSnake camera reels with TruSense technology for superior image quality and valuable data about the in-pipe environment. For more information, call 1800 743 443 or visit www.ridgid.com.au
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