AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018
MADE IN NZ
Storage water heater production
DROPPING THE MACHO ACT
Men’s health matters
PGD ACT REVIEW
Where’s it at?
2017 list MPA Fina
EDITORIAL
Volume 70, Number 4 MAGAZINE TEAM CEO Greg Wallace EDITOR Beverly Sellers 03 543 2008 beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz DESIGN Sally Travis Design www.sallytravisdesign.co.nz PRINT Service Printers 81 The Esplanade, Petone Wellington 6141 SUBSCRIPTIONS NZ Plumber is published six times a year by Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ. Members and Certifying tradespeople receive all six editions. If you wish to opt out, please email beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz To order an annual subscription, go to www.masterplumbers.org.nz MAILING LIST For enquiries, or to update your details: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz Non-Master Plumbers’ members with address detail changes should notify the PGD Board direct, giving their registration number here: licensing@pgdb.co.nz TO ADVERTISE Contact Catherine Schuster advertising@masterplumbers.org.nz
NZ Plumber is the official magazine of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc. Contact details for the MPGD Board, Society staff, branches and associations are available at www.masterplumbers.org.nz ©NZ Plumber 2013. Registered as a Newspaper, GPO, Wellington, ISSN 0111-4379. NZ Plumber is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication, unless initially specified otherwise. All letters and other material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled ‘Not for Publication’. Views expressed in articles in NZ Plumber magazine are not necessarily those of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc, or of the Editor. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information included in this publication, the publisher and the Editor take no responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this information. Publication of advertising material implies no endorsement of either a product or service.
Healthy debate Got yourself a WoF lately?
PLUMBING BUSINESS OWNER and Master Plumbers Board member Grayson Allen went from being fit and healthy to battling for his life after a bowel cancer diagnosis at the age of 45. I talked with Grayson about the shock he felt on discovering he was not bullet proof, and the major impact his illness has had on business and family life. Grayson’s message to others is to get yourself checked out on a regular basis. You maintain your ute and your power tools, so why wouldn’t you do the same for yourself, he asks in the article on p28. Before the diagnosis, he prided himself on not going to the doctor—but blokes need to drop the macho act, he reckons. Know how to do a testicular self-exam, get your prostate and skin checked, and if something’s not right, don’t ignore it. More than 200 people turned up to a recent men’s health talk MC’d by Grayson in his home town of Havelock North, and he’s hoping the event can be rolled out around the country. It wasn’t all about physical health. Guest speaker Mike King also talked about mental health and the effect our own behaviour can have on our workmates and families. Bullying in the workplace is known to have a detrimental effect on mental health. This edition, we look at what is meant by workplace bullying and what steps need to be taken if it’s happening in your environment. WorkSafe has a new bullying prevention toolbox, containing template policies and complaint forms, plus plenty of good guidance. Turn to p62 to see what resources are available for your business. On p47, Andrea Lovell considers the topic of depression in her regular column. It’s not a subject a lot of guys like to talk about, she says. But when she brought it up in a recent toolbox meeting, she was proud to see a couple of staff members putting their hands up to discuss their own experiences. At this company, independent counselling is on offer for any staff needing someone independent to talk to. Look after yourself!
Beverly Sellers Editor, NZ Plumber, beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz
OVER TO YOU The best email, letter, tip or photo sent in by readers that we publish on this page wins a $30 prize voucher! Do you have a picture, story or news to share? Or feedback on any of the articles you’ve read in NZ Plumber? We’d love to hear from you. Email the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz or give me a call on 03 543 2008. In the last edition, Paul Mccallum of Allpoints Plumbing asked if anyone else had encountered domestic plumbing pipes blocked by wasps, as he’d had two such jobs in recent times. Seems not… though Gavan Russell of Plumbing Technologies did respond to say that over the years he’d come across shower mixers affected by wasps and wetas in supply/header tanks on the roof. “One that comes to mind was a flushing valve in the late Seventies reported not working but all others were. We removed the top and plunger to find a bird beak stuck in the inlet area…. on closer inspection it was a complete bird. I have always been a bit puzzled as to how it got down so far considering the pipes were rather corroded with rust.” Gavan also sent in an intriguing picture of a more recent find, which you’ll find on our Dodgy Plumbing page at the back of the magazine. Thanks for your email Gavan. This edition’s $30 prize voucher is coming your way. August/September 2018
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Inside this issue
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018
WHAT’S ON 7
ISH exhibition tour Special 12-day itinerary to ISH Frankfurt for Master Plumbers members
TECHNICAL THEME: GAS APPLIANCES
MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS
23 Gas appliance labelling Ensure correct labelling of installations
10 CEO Greg Wallace on government reviews; plus new Technical Helpline for members; 2019 Conference Queensland; your membership card; new members.
24 Appliance installation 101 General guidelines on correct installation of gas appliances
IN FOCUS 14 PGD Act review The government is reviewing the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 16 Progress for KiwiBuild A look at how it’s progressing
REAL LIVES
26 Training opportunities Online and face-to-face upskilling for gasfitters
40 Handling the heat Taking a tour of Rheem NZ’s manufacturing facility
INDUSTRY TALK 45 Sam’s speak Thoughts on planning your business around skill shortages
NUTS & BOLTS 33 Transporting gas cylinders Advice on safe storage of flammable gas cylinders in work vehicles
47 In the office We need to talk about depression
34 Medical gas pipelines Support available for plumbers on medical gas system installations
28 Check this out How cancer impacted Grayson Allen’s business and family life
38 Tech points AS/NZS 3500:2018 publication and other updates
August/September 2018
INNOVATION
46 Recent charges Water filter company charged and infringement notice for caravan supplier
21 Career switch success Kelly Adam began his plumbing apprenticeship at 31
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39 Passing the OSET test OSET test results for passive septic treatment system
47 CodeMark suspension for ACP products Plus an update to Building Code fire protection solutions 47 Construction Pipeline Report 2018 Latest six-year projection released
CONTENTS
ON THE COVER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018
40
MADE IN NZ
28
DROPPING THE MACHO ACT
2017 MPA Finalist
Storage water heater production
Men’s health matters
14
PGD ACT REVIEW
Where’s it at?
54
Cover photograph: Brazing a low pressure copper cylinder at the Rheem manufacturing site in Auckland. Photograph by Leon Rose.
48 Kohler on the ball Kohler Co partners with Manchester United
58 Room to grow BNZ tips on how to turn your small business into a big one
70 To the limit Scholarship winner Harrison West on his Outward Bound experience
49 Bella Vista: a lesson Councils around NZ have lessons to learn from the Bella Vista Homes debacle
59 Biz brief Short and sharp business updates
71 Mac McKenzie Awards This year's deserving winners
61 From the IR: accounting software Shifting to accounting software may be easier than you think, says the IR
71 Online learning Changes to PGD apprentice programmes
50 Construction in crisis? Some worrying findings in BDO's 2018 construction survey report 51 People New appointments to note
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
SAFETY FIRST 62 Bullies be gone No one should feel threatened, fearful or unsafe at work
52 Tight space plumbing A tidy plant room job in limited space at this Auckland rest home
64 Toolbox tips Brief health and safety messages to share with the team
SMART BUSINESS
NEXT GENERATION
54 It’s quote time The golden rule for job quoting
66 Hot competition! Branch winners in Plumbing World’s Young Plumber of the Year contest
55 Missing in action What is job abandonment—and what to do about it? 56 Down tools! Mastering the art of being at the helm
68 Outward bound Plumbing and drainlaying apprentices put Outward Bound through its paces
73 Masterlink messageboard A new Regional Manager in the South Island; joining the high school Trade Up Tour; health monitoring programme; plus apprentice successes
SUPPLY LINES 76 Management on the move A mobile workforce requires mobile technology, says Teletrac Navman
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 77 What's new to market AND FINALLY 79 Offcuts Plumbing-related media stories 81 Dodgy Plumbing Don’t ya love DIYers…? August/September 2018
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QUALITY
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Instant access to all product and technical information when you need it, and also consult with clients on the spot.
WARRANTY AND SPARES
TRAINING
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methven.com
What’s on
See what’s coming up on the industry calendar.
EVENTS
If you have an event you would like to promote in a future edition of NZ Plumber, please email the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz
ISH Trade & Exhibition Tour Date: 9-21 March 2019 Venue: Messe Frankfurt, Germany
A fabulous chance for Master Plumbers’ members to be part of a 12-day ISH Messe Frankfurt trade and exhibition tour. Master Plumbers Queensland is taking expressions of interest for a contingent of Master Plumbers members to attend ISH in 2019. ISH is a trade fair with a focus on the water and energy industries. The five-day trade show invites nearly 2,500 exhibitors to showcase prime products in heating, plumbing, air conditioning and refrigeration industries. The event welcomes close to 200,000 visitors from all over the world. Exhibiting companies will present future-oriented solutions in several categories: • building and energy technology • air-conditioning • refrigeration • ventilation • bathroom • installation technology. The 12-day itinerary has been designed to provide plumbers with plenty of opportunities to talk to exhibitors about new ‘state of the art’ bathroom and sanitation products, discuss some of the technical challenges for new air conditioning and ventilation technology, and experience first-hand inspirational ideas for creating low energy housing.
Unique to the programme is a 3-day visit to Hoxter and Holzminden in Germany to visit the Stiebel Eltron plant and the award-winning Energy Campus. This newly built flagship facility produces positive energy using hydronic heat pump technology and solar PV. Itinerary 9 March – Australia to Frankfurt 10 March – Frankfurt to Hoxter for two nights’ accommodation 11 March – Activities hosted by Stiebel Eltron 12 March – Coach transfer to ISH Messe Frankfurt for Trade Fair. Evening in Wiesbaden for next three nights’ accommodation. 13 March – Coach transfer from Wiesbaden to ISH Messe Frankfurt 14 March – Partner programme sightseeing tour of Rüdesheim 15 March – Lunch tour along the Rhine river from Rüdesheim to Koblenz for overnight accommodation 16 March – Head to Ypres in Belgium for Menin Gate memorial service, followed by evening a local beer house and overnight accommodation 17 March – Day in Ypres or included tour of Somme region, including visit to Australian War Memorial, Villers Bretonneux. 18 March – Head to Paris for next three nights’ accommodation. Dinner at local bistro in Montmartre 19 March – Leisure day in Paris 20 March – Leisure day in Paris 21 March – Package ends with transfer to airport and flight to Singapore 22 March – Singapore to Australia For full details and to express your interest in registering, contact Caroline Cox at Travel Managers: caroline.cox@travelmanagers.com.au
August/September 2018
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EVENTS
CONZTRUCT Remaining 2018 dates: 30 August, Invercargill 11 September, Gisborne 25 October, Timaru Cost: FREE CONZTRUCT showcases new products and industry developments in the construction sector. • Choose from a variety of relevant workshops • Discover the latest products and solutions • Understand best practice and compliance direct from suppliers • Take advantage of show specials with a chance to win great prizes. Register FREE at www.conztruct.co.nz to secure your spot.
Auckland Build 2018 Date: 8-9 November Venue: ASB Showgrounds, Auckland Cost: FREE Construction, architecture and design exhibition, conference and workshops. Show features: • BCITO Growth Hub Business Training • Construction Expo – 200+ exhibitors • 90+ Senior Speakers at free conferences, workshops, partner sessions & live demos • Women in Construction Summit • BIM and Digital Construction Summit • Auckland Build & Facilities Management Summit • Networking: live music, The Build Bar, prize giveaways, VR simulators Register FREE at www.aucklandbuildexpo.com
Apprentice Roles and Responsibilities Dates: 4 September-18 December Cost: FREE This free seminar from Master Plumbers introduces apprentices to the key roles and responsibilities they have when they sign up to an apprenticeship. It outlines what an employer’s expectations of them are in relation to learning and gaining competency in their trade, and what being employed means. Discussion will be had on how to get the most from an apprenticeship and be successful in the trade. Register FREE at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training
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August/September 2018
GasNZ Industry Forum 2018 Date: 7-9 November Venue: The Rydges Hotel, Wellington Cost: • Delegates employed by LPG or Gas Association Members: $633 + GST • NZIGE Members: $633 + GST • Non-Members: $757 + GST This year’s Forum will be held from 7-9 November, with a half day workshop on the 7th (details to be confirmed) as well as welcome cocktails in the evening. The organisers recommend accommodation is booked now, as the hotel is only holding 80 rooms until Friday 7 September. This year’s panel discussion will be What should the gas industry look like by 2030? There will also be a range of technical presentations for the Friday morning breakout session. Register online at www.gasnz.org.nz.
Gas registration exam refresher Date: November Venue: Auckland Gas Training Consultants Ltd has provided gas registration exam refresher tuition on request in Wellington and elsewhere for the past 10 years—and currently appears to be the only provider. Only those who can afford to fly to Wellington, or fly trainer Lynn Oxenbridge to them benefit from this tuition at present. To overcome this, Lynn intends to run a 2-day refresher course in Auckland in November, with Rheem NZ providing the venue. A minimum number of enrolments are needed to go ahead. If successful, he will look at repeating the course in 2019 in Auckland, and at a South Island venue. Please register your interest in the November course by contacting Lynn: • gastrain08@gmail.com • 027 387 8702
Four Levers to Make Sure your Business is Winning Dates: 4 September-21 November Cost: $90 ex GST For your business to be successful, you have to know the levers you can pull to make a difference. This course identifies 4 key levers in a business, and gives you strategies and practical ways to try and ensure a positive and profitable outcome. The course is presented jointly by Fergus, Master Plumbers and Mico. Register at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training
PGDB/MICO CPD ROADSHOW 2018 WIN, EAT, LEARN, NETWORK •
Attend the interactive training session
•
Have a catch up with other industry members
•
Your chance to ask questions you need answering
•
We’ll shout you breakfast on morning sessions
•
Get the latest product updates at the trade stands
•
Have a bite and a drink on us at the Happy Hour
•
Get access to exclusive trade stand deals
•
BE IN TO WIN! Trade stand competitions on offer and go in the draw to...
WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO
VIETNAM HOSTED BY MICO IN 2019 4 PRIZE PACKS UP FOR GRABS!
CPD 2018 IS IN FULL SWING WITH GREAT ATTENDANCE SO FAR THERE ARE ONLY A FEW SESSIONS LEFT AND WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
DATES & LOCATIONS
= Session without Trade Show
DATE
SESSION
VENUE
DATE
SESSION
VENUE
Wed 22/8
Thames PM
Thames Civic Centre
Tue 4/9
South AKL PM
Pukekohe Indian Centre
Tue 28/8
West AKL AM
The Trusts Arena
Thu 6/9
AKL North Shore AM
QBE Stadium
Tue 28/8
West AKL PM
The Trusts Arena
Thu 6/9
AKL North Shore PM
QBE Stadium
Thu 30/8
Central AKL AM
Ellerslie Events Centre
Tue 11/9
Whangarei PM
ASB Northland Sports House
Thu 30/8
Central AKL PM
Ellerslie Events Centre
Wed 12/9
Kerikeri PM
Turner Centre
Tue 4/9
South AKL AM
Pukekohe Indian Centre
0800 101 999 | www.mico.co.nz
MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS
Up for review
Master Plumbers is playing an active advocacy role in current government reviews of construction skills, building product quality and the PGD Act. AS MEMBERS WILL be aware, the government is reviewing a broad range of construction sector topics and Master Plumbers has recently been involved in several government-led meetings and workshops. At the Construction Skills Workshops held in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington in July, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) reconfirmed a shortage of 30,000-40,000 construction workers but suggested this estimate could rise to 60,000 if the government is to fulfil its forecasted projects. A number of Master Plumbers member businesses attended these events and it’s fair to say robust feedback was given on the government’s five key concepts for addressing skills shortages. One concept is to expand group apprentice training schemes like Masterlink to support growth in apprentice numbers, and Master Plumbers has been asked to provide MBIE with more detail around such schemes. The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006 is also under review and we have information about Master Plumbers’ involvement in this on p14. In July, I was part of a small New Zealand team attending an apprenticeships conference in the
in our view, the Building Code doesn’t sufficiently address plumbing product quality
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August/September 2018
UK, and whilst there we also took the opportunity to view some apprentice training facilities. The UK government fully supports apprentice training, with zero training fees, and the facilities we viewed were innovative and world class by comparison with those in New Zealand. Around six years ago, the UK faced a similar skills shortage to ours and the government realised the construction sector wasn’t attracting the right calibre of students. As a result, they created Foundation Apprenticeships: two-year programmes for students between the ages of 16 and 19 to frontload a significant amount of training ahead of an apprenticeship. Apprentices now enter the workplace with a high level of knowledge and can hit the ground running. Master Plumbers is now working closely with other plumbing industry stakeholders to see whether this Foundation Apprenticeships model could be viable in New Zealand. The quality of plumbing products being supplied to the New Zealand market is still of major concern. We welcome MBIE’s product supply review, which includes a review of its voluntary CodeMark building product certification scheme to show products meet Building Code requirements. In our view, the Building Code doesn’t sufficiently address plumbing product quality. We would like to see a system where resellers and merchants must ensure all building product being sold is safe and fit for purpose, similar to the non-conforming building products legislation passed in Queensland last year. Master Plumbers is in the process of testing selected plumbing products at an independent certified laboratory in Australia. There has been a great deal of media coverage in Australia about lead contamination of water supplies through tapware and we are keen to see if this is
we cannot see any value for the plumbing industry from a booking site of this kind also occurring in New Zealand. Results were due as NZ Plumber went to press. In recent times, we’ve seen growth in trade booking websites, with Spark’s WeDo website being the latest to launch. Both Master Plumbers and Master Electricians were asked to get involved in this new service but declined. Currently, we cannot see any value for the plumbing industry from a booking site of this kind, which drives customer demand by promoting lower rates whilst also taking a margin from tradespeople via a monthly subscription fee. We are also concerned about the seeming lack of any quality assurance— and we struggle to see how the service will benefit plumbers in the current environment, where most of our members are facing worker shortages and full workloads. On a final note, I’m pleased to announce that we’ve made the big decision to take the NZ Plumbing Conference offshore in 2019. There will be a whole new format for the event, which will be held at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort in May. We believe it will be a great opportunity for members and Business Partners to take advantage of the better weather at that time of the year and be part of a conference that is both engaging and informative.
Greg Wallace, CEO Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ
MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS
Queensland here we come!
We’re very excited to announce a whole new Conference format—and a fabulous new destination. In a break with tradition, the 2019 Master Plumbers New Zealand Plumbing Conference will be held in Queensland, Australia, from 29-31 May inclusive. We’ve booked the superb InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort for the event, just a stone’s throw from Surfer’s Paradise. At this time of year, you can expect temperatures of around 22°C—a perfect escape from the NZ winter. The accommodation boasts a marina, golf courses, one-acre lagoon beach pool and
lush garden landscapes. Bring the family and extend your trip into the Queen’s Birthday weekend! Kids’ clubs will be available during the Conference, and the venue is just a short drive from the popular Gold Coast theme parks. We’re looking forward to a fun, relaxing and informative Conference. Mark the date on your calendar now—more details coming soon! www.masterplumbers.org.nz/ conference-2019
Above: A boat lover’s paradise.
Above: Evening activities are part of the package.
Above: Kids’ clubs will be available during the Conference
Above: Enjoy a dip in the one-acre lagoon beach pool
NEW MEMBERS A warm welcome to our newest Master Plumbers member businesses. • 1st Plumbing Ltd, Waikato • Abel Tasman Plumbing & Gas, Nelson • Acute Plumbing Ltd, Southland • AM PM Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Marlborough • Barnard Plumbing Ltd, Southland • Blue Flame Gas & Pipe 2011 Ltd, Canterbury • CBD Plumbing Ltd, Canterbury • Christchurch Drainage Contracting Ltd, Canterbury • Coppertop Plumbing Drainlaying Gasfitting Ltd, Auckland • Currie Plumbers Ltd, Otago • Dennis Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Auckland • Diverse Plumbing Ltd, Auckland • Drainpro Ltd, Canterbury • Eclipse Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Auckland • Flame 'N' Water Ltd, Canterbury
• GoFox Plumbing Christchurch Central, Canterbury • GoFox Plumbing South Waikato • Grant Ripley Plumbing Ltd, Canterbury • Grant Williams Plumbing & Gas, Canterbury • Hot Water Shop Christchurch • K Civil Drainage, Auckland • LA Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Wellington • MD Plumbing and Consulting Ltd, Bay of Plenty/Coromandel • Michael Henry Plumbing Ltd, Canterbury • Mick Kelly Ltd, Auckland • MWO Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Canterbury • Not Just Plumbing Ltd, Otago
• Pauanui Plumbing Ltd, t/a PlumbGas, Bay of Plenty/Coromandel • P&K Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Marlborough • Plumb1 Ltd, Wellington • Plumbing Complete, Waikato • Plumber Dan Ltd, Wanganui • Prestige Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Waikato • Rapid Plumbing & Gas, Waikato • Remarkable Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Otago • Swift Fix Plumbing Ltd, Auckland • VEPO Ltd, Taranaki • Waterworks Plumbing Ltd, Canterbury
Want to join?
When you join Master Plumbers, you get excellent business resources, training and savings for your business—helping you be the best. Special two-year membership deal available. 0800 502 102; membership@masterplumbers.org.nz www.masterplumbers.org.nz
August/September 2018
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MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS
Consumer tips & advice
Our new Good Call campaign is attracting plenty of consumer interest. As part of our Good Call campaign, our Facebook page provides consumers with some handy plumbing advice when building, renovating or maintaining their properties. It also links through to regular blogs on our www.dontriskit.co.nz consumer website. Go to www.facebook.com/masterplumbersnz and www.dontriskit.co.nz to check out how we’re promoting Master Plumbers to consumers.
NEW: Technical helpline A new technical helpline for members.
We’re very pleased to bring members a new technical helpline service. Call the free helpline any time during working hours with your technical queries. The helpline will be manned by Master Plumbers' National President Rod Miller, a Certifying Plumber and Certifying Drainlayer with over 30 years' industry experience. For many years, Rod owned and operated Water-Mart Wairarapa, employing a team of 45+ and providing domestic and commercial plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying and roofing services. He now runs PHD Consulting Ltd and Plumbing Hydraulics & Drainage Consulting Ltd.
0800 114 152
Board Member Sam Tyson
Co-opted to the Master Plumbers Board in May, Sam Tyson brings a wealth of strategic business development knowledge. Sam Tyson was co-opted to the Board in May. Sam, who is President of the Taranaki Master Plumbers, brings with her a huge amount of knowledge gained on the Aspiring Directors Programme—as one of only two people from the nationwide trades industry to be selected for the programme by The Skills Organisation. She also has broad experience in strategic business
development and is an industry representative on the PGDB’s Stakeholder Liaison Group. On purchasing Climate in 2010, Sam set out to learn as much as she could about the trade and to establish connections she could turn to for guidance as a woman entering an industry of which she had no prior knowledge. “I knew a lot about running a business but absolutely nothing about plumbing,” she says. “The best thing I did was join Master Plumbers.
I remember going to my first Association meeting, quite nervous of what to expect, but the guys soon made me welcome and have been a tremendous support to me.” Sam has since grown her plumbing business from a team of seven to 24, and won the New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year Award in 2015. She also writes a regular column in NZ Plumber on the tribulations and celebrations of running a plumbing business (see p45).
Membership card & Mobilcard in one! We have begun rolling out the new Master Plumbers membership cards. Use your new Master Plumbers membership card as handy proof when claiming discounts over the counter with Master Plumbers Reward Partners, such as Hirepool and PitStop. Plus, if you have a Master Plumbers Mobilcard account, it doubles as your new Mobilcard. You and your team can use it when filling up your work vehicles at any Mobilcard acceptor sites. No more staff reimbursements for their service station purchases, and a simple one bill a month for your accounting and tax expense records.
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August/September 2018
Mobilcard users now enjoy 12 cents per litre off the pump price for petrol and diesel purchases. High diesel users, or those in a high fuel price area, may prefer the special diesel price card, allowing you to get 20 cents per litre off Mobil’s national diesel price. Please note, effective 1 September 2018, Mobilcard will no longer be accepted at Pak’nSave and New World fuel sites. To continue to enjoy all your Mobilcard benefits, please visit www.mobilfuelfinder. co.nz to find a site near you.
Above: The new Master Plumbers membership card.
Don’t yet have a Master Plumbers Mobilcard account? Email Lynda Colman: lcolman@masterplumbers.org.nz to sign up.
MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS
Best in Brand
Congrats to our latest winner—and get your entries in! JLP is rebranding and ensuring they include the Master Plumbers brand in the process. We love the clean, clear use of the logo on the pictured work vehicle—that aqua blue pings! Nice one, guys—this edition’s prize voucher is on its way to you. How to enter For a chance to win our next $200 Prezzy Card voucher, just send a photo of how you use the Master Plumbers branding in your workplace. Email them to Sarah Rowe by Friday 14 September 2018: srowe@masterplumbers.org.nz
Waikato AGM highlights
Ken Douglas was awarded Association Life Membership at the recent Waikato Master Plumbers Association AGM. Ken Douglas is one of three Life Members of the Waikato Master Plumbers Association, having been awarded this recognition of his services to the Association at the AGM in May. Also attending the event were 13 of the Association’s 24 Past Presidents, who gathered for a photo. They are, back row from left: 1979-1981
Ron Leeming
1981-1983
Tony Mannington
1983-1985
Barry Crawshaw
1987-1989
Ken Wood
1989-1991
Ken Douglas
1991-1993
Barry Cuff
1993-1995
Warren Thompson
2001-2003
Brad Kells (Front row, from left)
2006-2008
Dave Strong
2008-2010
Mike Foote
2010-2012
David Whitfield
2014-2016
Brent Tupaea
2016-2018
Mike Wilson
Above: Ken Douglas receiving his Life Membership.
Above: Waikato Master Plumbers Life Members (left to right) Ron Leeming, Tony Mannington and Ken Douglas.
Above: Thirteen Waikato Association Past Presidents were at the AGM.
Obituary: Stan Gardner It is with regret that we inform the passing of Stan Gardner in May, four days after his 102nd birthday. Stan was Secretary of the Canterbury Master Plumbers Association for many years and a Life Member of the Association. He started work at the NZ Farmers Co-op Association in Christchurch in 1934 during the Big Depression, working there until
1940 when the army called on his services, and again on his return from overseas in 1945. He then joined Bert Congreve, who was Secretary for a number of building trade associations, including the Plumbers Merchants Association. The pair were asked to take over secretarial duties for the Canterbury Master Plumbers Association in 1950,
and so began his long association with Master Plumbers throughout Canterbury and the West Coast. Stan eventually retired in 1978 due to a hearing problem. He spent many hours researching and writing the history of the Canterbury Association, which providing a faithful record of its first 100 years from 18991999.
August/September 2018
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PGD Act review IN FOCUS
THE PLUMBERS, GASFITTERS, and Drainlayers Act 2006 was due to be reviewed three years after it came into force in 2010. That review stalled under the former government but now appears to be gaining traction once more. Master Plumbers has met with a number of government officials over the past few months, and was asked to submit its views on the Act’s performance to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) by the end of August. “We have created a working group, which has identified 11 key issues we believe require modification or clarification—with self-certification for plumbers top of the list,” says CEO Greg Wallace. “We also think improvements are needed to make the Act easier and more cost effective to implement.” Another issue identified was a need for further clarification around supervision requirements. To help inform its submission, Master Plumbers sought feedback from member businesses in August on changes they wanted to see for the Act. Associations and Branches were then sent the draft submission for further member comment.
Plumbing on farms
As part of its Act review, MBIE has signalled that it intends to consider creating an exemption allowing milking and pumping technicians to carry out sanitary plumbing on farms. Master Plumbers opposes such an exemption, as does the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). In its InfoBrief newsletter (Edition 04), PGDB Chief Executive Martin Sawyers said the Board was of the view that it would be
self-certification for plumbers top of the list
The overdue review of the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006 is gathering momentum.
“contrary to public health and safety to allow the installation and maintenance of plumbing systems on farms to be carried out by anyone other than a registered and licensed plumber”. The PGDB has apparently been approached twice in the past three years by the New Zealand Milking and Pumping Trade Association to create a licensing class for milking and pumping technicians. “The evidence provided to the Board by the Trade Association raised significant concerns about the level of understanding and knowledge of plumbing systems by their members,” said Martin Sawyers. “The sanitary plumbing system on a farm provides potable water and sanitation services for those living and working on the farm and is used in conjunction with food production associated with a major export industry in New Zealand. “In those circumstances, the Board considers the risks are such that the same installation standards should apply on a farm as apply in urban and commercial environments.”
Send in your examples
To back up its view, the PGDB is looking for assistance from the industry to provide examples of poor quality sanitary plumbing work carried out in dairy shed settings. This should include: • a description of what you found • photos where available • the potential or actual problems caused. “We are not asking you to make a complaint (you can if you wish), but primarily we are seeking information to assist MBIE to reach the right decision,” he says. The PGDB assures that your identity will be kept confidential when it uses this information. Please submit to comms@pgdb.co.nz ■ 14
August/September 2018
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August/September 2018
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IN FOCUS
Progress for KiwiBuild KIWIBUILD AIMS to get first home buyers back in the marketplace by supplying homes they can afford—at least half of them in Auckland. The KiwiBuild home count officially started on 1 July, with registrations of interest opening three days later. The plan, announced Housing and Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford that month, is to build: • July 2018-July 2019: 1,000 KiwiBuild homes • By June 2020: 5,000 homes per year • By June 2021: 10,000 homes per year • June 2021- June 2028: 12,000 per year on average Houses built will be modern starter homes for first-home occupiers. KiwiBuild will work with private sectors to build homes that will be sold at cost to the home owner. To be eligible, buyers must have an income below $120,000 for sole purchasers and $180,000 for couples. Homes will be sold only to first home buyers or ‘second chancers’, with a condition of sale requiring them to hand back any capital gains if the property is sold on within five years. The Government has made an initial $2 billion commitment to KiwiBuild. This will be ‘recycled’ as the houses are sold, and returned to the Crown at the end of the programme. It says stand-alone KiwiBuild homes in Auckland will cost $500,000$600,000, with apartments and terraced houses under $500,000. Outside Auckland, KiwiBuild property prices are likely to range from $300,000-$500,000. “Scale and modern offsite manufacturing techniques will enable these homes to be built at low cost,” the Government claims.
We’ve all become familiar with the Government’s KiwiBuild promise of 100,000 affordable houses over the next 10 years. But how is it progressing?
KiwiBuild is to be delivered under four main channels: 1. Buying off the plans—private developer proposals that could otherwise be delayed or not built at all 2. Large-scale urban redevelopment projects with long leadin times but big numbers once underway 3. Converting existing underused Crown land and purchasing additional land from the private market 4. Procuring KiwiBuild dwellings through existing Government-led housing initiatives—mixed neighbourhoods.
New ministry established A new Ministry of Housing and Urban Development was established on 1 August, with an official start date of 1 October. “Addressing the national housing crisis is one of the biggest challenges our Government faces,” said Phil Twyford on announcing the new ministry. It will initially be set up by moving functions from existing agencies, including the KiwiBuild Unit from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). An Urban Development Authority will also be set up to lead large-scale urban development projects. The Authority will hold all surplus urban Crown land and be able to use this in its development projects. According to the Government, National took a piecemeal approach to finding empty parcels of Crown land. With “no single body tasked with driving the construction of affordable homes, most developments are small-scale and slowed down by long consenting periods. To ensure profitability, private developers focus on building large, expensive houses”. The aim is for the Authority to have powers relating to land assembly, planning, consenting, infrastructure provision and financing and funding. Included in the Government’s UDA agenda is system reform to ensure legislative alignment across the Resource Management Act, Local Government Act and Land Transport Management Act.
Immediate skills shortages
Above: Prefab New Zealand is working with Victoria University to develop 3D concepts for prefab housing communities. 16
August/September 2018
Questions have been raised in the construction industry about how KiwiBuild promises can be fulfilled given the current labour capacity constraints. The Government estimates a current shortfall of some 30,000-40,000 workers—particularly plumbers, electricians, engineers, builders and project managers. Increased house-building will require a larger workforce, with KiwiBuild projecting to create 5,000 new jobs at its peak. The Government’s focus is currently on the immediate fix. It is proposing a temporary KiwiBuild Skills Shortage List, making it possible for construction firms to hire staff quickly from overseas when they can’t recruit locally. This list could be in place in around six months, said Immigration Minister Iain Lees-Galloway in late June.
IN FOCUS
KiwiBuild timeline 2018
July: Official start of KiwiBuild home count and opening of home buyer registrations of interest.
Announcement of Mangere redevelopment, with 3,500 of the 10,000 new homes to be KiwiBuilds.
Above: Off-site manufacturing factories are being invited to come forward with plans and proposals.
He noted that any changes would be time-limited, giving the sector time to train up Kiwis. “We want a sustainable construction workforce to provide opportunities for New Zealanders to train and work in the sector. But that doesn’t happen overnight, which is why we need these changes for the short term.”
Medium- to long-term skills shortages A Construction Skills Action Plan is being developed to address the needs of the medium- to long-term labour market. MBIE presented its draft plan to Cabinet in May, and the construction sector was invited to provide feedback on the proposals at a series of workshops in the main centres in July. The plan was expected to be confirmed by Cabinet in August. The draft plan includes: • Leveraging government procurement • Promotion of group apprentice training schemes • Mana in Mahi – Strength in Work scheme to pay a wage subsidy to employers who hire a person on benefit and offer them an apprenticeship • Expanding the existing Skills for Industry model between industry and the Ministry of Social Development, which allows for industry-specific training for job seekers. • Expanding the Sector Workforce Engagement Programme (SWEP) to provide job hubs for construction projects and offer recruitment and matching services, skills training coordination and schools engagement. At July’s KiwiBuild Summit (see box copy), BCITO CEO Warwick Quinn said that only 10% of industry are training apprentices [19% for plumbing] and they are being poached by others who have not been prepared to be involved in training. Another significant reason for the shortage of apprentices, he said, is that 2003 marked the lowest birth rate ever, which impacted on available young people to train. A discussion also took place on the lack of women in the trades. For BCITO, there are 11,500 male apprentices and just 377 women. This means that half the workforce isn’t being used. >
June: The Government announces its plan to invite overseas and local companies to express their interest in setting up or expanding off-site manufacturing factories to make KiwiBuild homes. “Off-site manufacturing will be a game changer for New Zealand housing,” claims Housing and Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford. Announcement of up to 400 affordable KiwiBuild homes to be built in Auckland’s Northcote suburb by 2019 in a redevelopment of Housing NZ land. The development will comprise 1,200 new homes in total—the others being state houses and market homes. Announcement of temporary KiwiBuild Skill Shortage list, to be in place within 6 months May: Developers are invited to tender in the ‘Buying off the plans’ initiative. The Government will underwrite or purchase new homes off the plans led by the private sector or others. It is initially targeting developers who are willing to adapt an existing development to include affordable KiwiBuild dwellings. Almost 100 proposals were received by the June close off date. April: The first KiwiBuild homes get under construction in Papakura, with 18 three- and four-bedroom homes to be built at part of the McLennan Development on former Defence Force land. The site became available for Kiwibuild after private developers were unable to finance the land purchase. March: The Government announces the first of its major urban redevelopment projects with the purchase of 29.3 hectares of land at Unitec’s Mt Albert campus in Auckland. The aim is to build between 3,000-4,000 houses in a mix of KiwiBuild homes, public housing and open market houses. January: Government fees-free initiative kicks off, with eligible new apprentices paying no industry training fees for the first two years.
2017 December: KiwiBuild Unit is established within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). October: Labour-led Government elected, and promises to begin work on its KiwiBuild programme as part of its 100 day plan.
August/September 2018
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IN FOCUS
The low rate of companies taking on apprentices is a concern and questions were asked as to whether the Government could find ways to improve this. Building and Construction Minister Jenny Salesa said two schemes had been undertaken by previous governments in 2003 and 2014—the most recent being the Apprenticeship Reboot Scheme—and neither had been very successful in the Government’s view, so it is unlikely this kind of scheme will be reintroduced. “MBIE recognises a skills strategy for the building and construction sector is a top priority for our Minister to address capacity and capability issues in the construction workforce,” said Anna Butler, General Manager of MBIE’s Building System Performance (BSP) branch this March. “The type of skills needed in this space could look quite different to the current mix in the sector—to build at the scale and speed required for KiwiBuild will require new ways of working.”
Consenting efficiency Another challenge facing KiwiBuild is building consent times and costs. BSP has been tasked with improving the effectiveness of the building regulatory system, and efficient consenting is one of seven priority areas for BSP in 2018. The other six are workforce skills, occupational regulation reform; rebalancing risk, responsibility and liability; a products review; smart compliance pathways; and a review of the Building Levy. Although Auckland Council has improved its consent numbers (from 6,500 in 2014 to 12,500 in 2017), issues remain around the lack of speed and resources, and the significant amount of paperwork involved. Many councils have become risk averse as a result of the leaky homes syndrome, so one of the most critical reforms could be to shift liability to the builder and suppliers, says the Government—though how this would happen in practice is yet to be determined. Another way to speed up consenting processes could be to introduce a single consent for buildings of a similar design. ■
KiwiBuild Summit Around 400 construction industry participants attended the inaugural KiwiBuild Summit, held during buildnz in Auckland this July. Fronted by Housing and Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford and Building and Construction Minister Jenny Salesa, the Kiwibuild Summit comprised a series of themed panel discussions with industry leaders to outline the KiwiBuild programme. The key themes were: • Removing barriers stopping Auckland growing • Growing the building workforce • An affordable housing authority to fast-track development in our cities • Investing in warm, dry, healthy homes. “It was great to be part of the KiwiBuild Summit,” says Master Plumbers Operations Manager Margaret Dawson. “The first presentation was made by Hon Phil Twyford, who said home ownership rates were the lowest since 1951. Not enough homes are being built and, of those built, too few have been starter homes. The younger generations have been the most affected. “He noted that there is an urgent need to reduce the cost of materials and to change the Commerce Act to modify the current anti-competitive building supplies market,” she says. “A significant procurement programme will be established as a priority. The volume and number of homes needed will mean there will be deals on a scale not previously seen.”
Above: One of the KiwiBuild Summit panels comprising, from left, BCITO CEO Warwick Quinn, Building and Construction Minister Jenny Salesa, Skills CEO Garry Fissenden, NAWIC Chair Jenny Parker and Certified Builders CEO Grant Florence.
Offsite manufacturing There is much talk around prefab and modular housing as the solution to achieving the promised KiwiBuild numbers. The Government is looking at overseas models of large-scale housing development in countries such as Sweden, Vancouver and parts of Australia, where large numbers of houses and apartments are built in off-site manufacturing facilities. At the KiwiBuild Summit Phil Twyford said that it is highly conceivable that a five-storey apartment block could be built offsite and relocated to Auckland CBD. This would require a considerable transformation of the NZ construction industry, and houses built would need to be sustainable, above existing codes and meet a pre-established set standard. The MBIE KiwiBuild Unit is currently establishing a ‘quality standards framework’ that should be in place within a few months. It would also be essential to put infrastructure in place first, rather than just considering one house at a time. Areas would need to
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be considered as communities, with advance plans for roads, transport links, schools etc. New Zealand already has some off-site manufacturers, but the numbers will need to grow considerably to achieve targets. Fletcher Building is one company to have announced plans for a panelisation factory in Auckland to speed up house building in the city. “Fletcher will tell the Government what we’re already doing and encourage it to make more land available for KiwiBuild homes, which we would build,” Fletcher CEO Steve Evans told The NZ Herald in May. “We’re already building homes that satisfy the KiwiBuild criteria in Massey and on the former Manukau Golf Course.” Last year, Fletcher’s showcased its construction technology in a time lapse video, in which a $2 million Auckland duplex was built in four days. It had also constructed a single Auckland house in one day.
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Career switch success
REAL LIVES
Embarking on a plumbing apprenticeship at 31, Kelly Adam has drawn on previous job experience to help in his new career. By Matthew Lowe. KELLY ADAM MAY be relatively new to the world of plumbing, but his maturity has already earned him plenty of plaudits and seen him face some tricky questions. After deciding to make a career change at the age of 31, he embarked on an apprenticeship with Impact Roofing and Plumbing in Dunedin. Kelly says being older than most apprentices he had more self-confidence and a better ability to handle stress than some of his peers, but it occasionally had its downside: “Customers often think you are qualified and ask questions that you have no idea about.”
Recognition for hard work
His four years of effort paid off when he won the James Douglas Medallion, which recognises the country’s top newly qualified apprentice in plumbing, gasfitting or drainlaying, at the 2018 New Zealand Plumbing Awards in Hamilton in March. “It was humbling to win the award.
Above: Kelly receiving the 2018 James Douglas Medallion.
It meant a lot that the work I had put into my apprenticeship and exams had been recognised and acknowledged,” Kelly says. “I started plumbing through a casual conversation with the celebrant at my wedding, which got me enthusiastic about a possible career change. After discussing what is involved with an apprenticeship with Blair Melrose from Impact Roofing and Plumbing, I knew it would be a positive move.” After school, Kelly completed a commerce degree, majoring in accounting, at the University of Otago. Despite this he never pursued a career in accounting and worked at a supermarket, where he eventually became manager, and after time spent overseas returned to New Zealand and worked in a golf shop.
Patience is required
But after that chat with his celebrant, Kelly took the plunge and began a Masterlink apprenticeship programme in April 2013, finishing in February 2017. “On the whole my Masterlink experience was very good, primarily for the support you get. [Mentor] Roger Herd was always just a phone call away, and the financial support while on block course in Invercargill [was good].” Some of Kelly’s favourite parts of his apprenticeship were the “awesome people” on his course in Invercargill, a “continued sense of achievement as I developed” and “seeing inside some of the older buildings around Dunedin”. He says some of the harder aspects of becoming a plumber were the block courses and the time it takes to develop the necessary skills. “Relative to other jobs, and it being a learn-as-you-work career, plumbing takes a long time to learn (still learning!), so a lot of patience is required.” Kelly says he was able to draw on his experience from previous jobs to help
Above: Kelly Adam at work with Impact Roofing and Plumbing.
during his training. This included the ability to apply analytical skills, talk to and engage with customers, and being able to think ahead and prioritise tasks.
Helping other apprentices
His Masterlink mentor Roger Herd nominated him for the James Douglas Medallion, noting Kelly’s strong work ethic, attention to detail and willingness to assist other apprentices. “Nothing seems to faze Kelly,” he says. “I was always met with a smile and his dry sense of humour.” Besides liking the day-to-day aspect of his job, Kelly says he also takes pleasure from helping those who have just started learning their trade. “I’m still enjoying the job—as the saying goes every day is different. I’m lucky to be exposed to a wide range of jobs at Impact. I also enjoy working with apprentices and helping them learn and develop. “The key advice I give is that they need to have confidence to trust what they are thinking. It’s OK to make mistakes on tasks I set; what’s important is that they have made an attempt and they learn from them.” ■ August/September 2018
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TECHNICAL THEME
GAS APPLIANCES We take a look at appliance compliance, installation and training for gasfitters. In this section
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Gas appliance labelling Appliance installation 101 Training opportunities
TECHNICAL PAGE THEME TAG
Gas appliance labelling A WELL-KNOWN GAS appliance manufacturer has brought to the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB)’s attention that they have come across installations of their product which are labelled incorrectly. Scenarios of incorrectly labelled products appear to be happening when gasfitters have converted to a different gas type—but haven’t changed the label to acknowledge the change in gas. The Gas (Safety & Measurement) Regulations 2010 (GSMR) state that: (1) Every manufacturer or importer of a gas appliance sold or intended for sale must, as a minimum, ensure that the appliance is legibly and clearly marked in the English language in a permanent manner with all of the following: (a) the name or registered trademark or other means of identifying the person responsible, under regulation 66, for making the supplier declaration relating to the appliance; and
(b) the type or types of gas that the appliance is certified or endorsed to safely use; and (c) the gas supply pressure range within which the gas appliance will operate safely; and (d) the nominal heat input rating of the gas appliance; and (e) a gas safety compliance label (if the gas appliance is required by regulation 72 to have one); and (f) the make and either the model or the model number of the gas appliance. This indicates that the manufacturer must ensure that their product has a label with the above-required information. Therefore, when a manufacturer supplies a conversion kit for a gas appliance, they would require the installer to fit a new label which will correctly identify the type of gas being used. AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 2.6.2 details that gas fittings and appliances shall be installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Gasfitters must ensure correct labelling of gas appliance installations, reminds the PGDB.
Above: The gas safety compliance label used on gas appliances.
Therefore, when converting a gas appliance to a different gas type, the gasfitter should label the appliance correctly as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Most conversion kits come with a new label to install on the appliance so it can have the correct information on the appliance. Failure to install the correct label when converting an appliance to a different gas type could leave the appliance open to having the incorrect gas connected at a later date. This, in turn, could render the installation unsafe.
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August/September 2018
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PAGE TAG THEME TECHNICAL
Appliance installation 101 Some general guidelines on the correct installation of gas appliances from Stephen Parslow of Rheem.
GAS APPLIANCES CAN be a great choice over electric heating units due to the increased heat output available from gas, giving faster heat up times. Modern gas appliances are designed to operate efficiently and safely for many years provided they are installed correctly.
Regulations and compliance
All gas appliances must comply with general requirements of the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010 if they are to be sold in New Zealand. The compliance and certification regime ensures gas appliances and fittings are safe but, ultimately, the installation of the appliance into a house or building needs to comply with relevant installation regulations such as AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 and AS/NZS 5601.2:2013 for gas installations, parts 1 and 2. In the case of gas water heaters, the appliance must also be installed to comply with AS/ANZ 3500.4:2003 Heated water services as well as the NZ Building Code (G12 Water Supplies). To ensure a safe appliance and installation, all recommendations must be followed. These regulations cover all gas appliances for water heating, space heating and cooking—and have rules governing the gas supply pipework, appliance location, flueing, clearances and any ventilation requirements. In addition to these regulations, individual manufacturers’ instructions must also be followed, as there may be conditions specific to the individual appliance that may override the installation regulations. For this reason, it is vital that the installer familiarises himself or herself with the individual appliance instructions rather than relying completely on generic information.
Pipework
Gas installation pipework must be of the correct size throughout the house or building to enable sufficient gas to be delivered to each installed appliance. Pipe sizing tables are included in AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 for reference. It may be wise to size the piping above what is required if there is potential for extra appliances in the future. The gas input rating of appliances is used to work out pipe sizes. If this pipework is undersized for the load of the installation, appliances can be starved of gas during operation. This may lead to poor performance, poor combustion or appliances shutting down, all of which may have the potential to 24
August/September 2018
Above and left: Fan-assisted flue terminal clearances.
create unsafe conditions. A simple pressure test at the appliance inlet with all the appliances operating at full rate will confirm everything is correct upstream from the appliance. If, during this test, the inlet pressure drops to below the minimum specified, there may be a problem with upstream regulators, partial pipework blockages or undersized pipework. This will need to be investigated to identify which is causing the problem.
Appliance location
The location of each gas appliance is very important: 1. Minimum clearances to flammable materials must be maintained to avoid creating a fire hazard. 2. Clearances and proximity to openings, windows, doors or wall vents must be taken into account to ensure products of combustion cannot enter the house or building and create a carbon monoxide issue. 3. The flue system must be terminated away from internal or external corners of the building, which could affect the safe operation of the unit. The minimum dimensions mentioned above can all be found in the gas installation regulations. The distances quoted may vary depending on the MJ/h input rating of the appliance, so it is important to check this in the manufacturer’s specifications. The distances can also vary depending on the flue type—either natural draught or fan assisted.
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Above: A bank of commercial water heaters with flues for an internal installation at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium.
Modern indoor room sealed/balanced flue appliances are provided with combustion air through the flue system and products of combustion exit the building through this flue. The termination of the flue is important to ensure the flue system performs correctly and also to prevent these products from reentering the building. Flueless and indoor open flued appliances must be installed to comply with the installation regulations, which restrict this type of appliance to certain areas of a building—avoiding areas such as sleeping or bathing areas, which could present a carbon monoxide hazard. Open flued appliances may also require fresh air from outside or compartment ventilation to prevent overheating and ensure correct combustion. Another important consideration is to ensure the appliance is located in a position that allows for servicing, maintenance or repairs to be carried out. Often the manufacturer’s warranty will be void if it is not possible to work on the appliance in the event of a problem. The cost of difficult access is not covered and would become the owner’s responsibility. The manufacturer’s instructions will normally indicate any minimum clearances required to allow for maintenance work such as removal of burners etc. Specific dimensions and details will vary from appliance to appliance and from installation to installation. If in doubt, always contact the supplier or manufacturer for guidance. Properly installed and maintained, a modern gas appliance will operate reliably and safely for many years and ensure a happy customer.
About the author: Stephen Parslow is Technical and Training Officer at Rheem NZ.
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TECHNICAL THEME
Gas training opportunities A number of Master Plumbers online and face-to-face upskilling options are available specifically for gasfitters. NEW: online LPG course Check out a new fully online course entitled Working with and Installing LPG. The course is aimed at gasfitters wanting a refresher in LPG installations. It covers the following topics: • Is LPG the right solution? • How does LPG work? • Legislation and safety requirements • Designing the installation • Sizing the installation. Register FREE at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training within the Online category.
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Gas Safety
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This online video presentation from Energy Safety considers gas certification and gasfitting risk levels. Accompanying the video is a guide to applying Regulation 5A—meanings of low-risk, high-risk and general gasfitting. Watch it at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training/e-learning/
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6 STARS
REAL LIVES
Check this out A diagnosis of bowel cancer for 45-year-old plumbing business owner Grayson Allen came as a complete shock. We asked him about its impact, and what he has learned from the experience. Q: How did you first know something was up? A: I just got the feeling something wasn’t
right. There was nothing obvious, but I had an uncomfortable sensation in my gut and was knackered. I’d been working huge hours and was stressed, so I reckoned maybe I’d picked up a virus. I’d always been pretty fit—eating well, not drinking too much, trail running, cricket, tramping—so I thought that would keep me ticking. I’d also been for a full medical check in February that year [2017] and had been given the rubber stamp. In late May I got the flu like never before. My head felt like it had been hit by a hammer and I had a hacking cough. After a week or two, I went to the GP and was told it was a particularly nasty strain
Above: Grayson with son Tom on Te Mata peak.
of flu, to take some Panadol and wait it out. But it just got worse, to the point that I was vomiting after everything I ate. In July, I went back to the GP, who again assured me I had typical flu symptoms.
Q: What was the turning point in the diagnosis? A: My good mate Bernie, who I run with,
is a colorectal surgeon. My wife Cherie rang him after my doctor’s appointment to say she felt something wasn’t right. I was still working but I’d lost nearly 10kg in those three or four weeks. Bernie booked me in for a colonoscopy five days later through my medical insurance and told me to go to A&E the next day to get a CT scan and other tests done at the hospital. That was on a Friday. He rang me on the Monday morning to tell me I had bowel cancer and that I was booked in for an operation the next day. I had laproscopic surgery to have 200mm of sigmoid bowel removed and spent the next seven days recovering in hospital. The cancer was at late Stage 3 and had spread to my lymph nodes. I was lucky I had such quick intervention. If it had tracked to my liver or lungs, there wouldn’t have been much they could do. As it was, once I’d recovered from the surgery, I was given the option of chemotherapy. Without chemo, the stats were a 60%
Above: Grayson and Cherie Allen.
chance of the cancer returning in the next two years. With it, the stats were 30-40%. For me, it was a no-brainer—though it wasn’t pretty. They felt I was young and fit enough to handle the maximum dose and it took eight months, with a two-week cycle of infusions and drugs, which really knocked me around. I completed the treatment this April.
Q: How did you manage to keep your business running? A: It was a godsend I had good medical
insurance, which meant I got treated quickly and was able to stay in a private hospital with excellent after care. In reality, it was down to proper business planning. I had been given good advice that if you’re running a business and employing staff, you need medical, trauma and income protection policies. If I didn’t have those in place, I wouldn’t have a business today.
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REAL LIVES
I have key man insurance, which allows for a business fund to keep the business operating. The camaraderie of my local Master Plumbers was fantastic, with about six or seven core guys coming over to ask what they could do to help—whether finishing jobs, taking over jobs, pricing jobs or supervising my apprentice. My admin staff are part of three businesses— Peak Plumbing & Gas, Peak Maintenance and Kyle Symons Electricians—so I’m responsible for eight staff in total. If I didn’t have cover, no one would be paying my wage or theirs. It’s easy when you’re busy to say you haven’t got time to think about insurance. When I set up a new business in 2006, I made the decision to ensure I was covered. I had a two-hour meeting with the insurance advisor and did my homework. Once the insurance is in place it’s just a monthly payment. You’d be foolish if you didn’t work that into your hourly rate.
Q: How did the diagnosis affect your family? A: It was a shock to my two brothers,
as we had no immediate family history of cancer. They were advised to have a colonoscopy and my older brother discovered he had a pre-cancerous tumour in the same part of his bowel, which was operated on a week later. Our 14-year-old twin sons will also need regular colonoscopies. If you have a genetic marker for cancer, you are at risk no matter how fit and healthy you are. There’s a huge flow-on effect for the whole family. It knocked my confidence, as I realised I was no longer bullet-proof. Our boys reacted differently. One bottled up his emotions and the other became quite protective and clingy. He has since
got quite involved with Canteen, which supports teenagers affected by cancer in their lives. Each has had to process it in his own way. Cherie has borne the brunt of it and has always been there for me—even when I needed help putting on my own jocks and socks. It has caused a lot of physical and mental stress, but my family and friends have been fantastic.
Q: Where are you at now? A: This July was a year since the initial
diagnosis. I completed the chemo in April, but it left me with blistered feet, balance issues and numbness in my arm, so I was in no state to be climbing ladders or handling tools. With income protection, I was able to do no work for three to six months. For the past four or five months I’ve been doing about two hours’ admin and supervisory work a day—and I’ll slowly up that. My income top-up protection lasts five years if needed. I continue to have regular blood tests and checks and it will take two years with a clean bill of health before I’m considered in full remission.
Q: What do you want others to take out from your experience? I used to pride myself on not going to the doctor. At 36, I started going every two years for a medical, including a skin check. As blokes, we need to drop the macho act. I urge everyone to get a full benchmark check at 40: bowel, prostate, hepatitis, skin check, everything. After that, it’s a good idea to get a prostate check every two years. Prevention is better than cure. And if something’s not right, don’t ignore it. You maintain your
Above: With son Reuben, celebrating Grayson’s birthday.
ute and your power tools, so why wouldn’t you do the same for yourself? Regular maintenance is key. Even young people are not immune. Testicular cancer is the biggest killer of males in their teens and 20s. Our local urologist told me that he sees a case of a young man with testicular cancer every month. Learn how to give yourself a regular check. Also, be aware that ACC doesn’t cover illness or chronic conditions, such as arthritis or a bad back. It only covers workplace accidents. I believe stress was a big factor in my illness and it has come at a cost to my wife and kids. My biggest challenge as a bloke is to learn new ways to communicate when I’m feeling stressed, rather than bottling it up or getting grumpy. Plumbers, gasfitters and engineers often do huge hours on major jobs and I was regularly working 12 or 13-hour days to meet contract deadlines. As a business owner, take the time to ensure you have efficient processes and systems in place— and also know how to say no to some jobs.
August/September 2018
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REAL LIVES
Looking after men’s health
Master Plumbers was among the sponsors of a recent men’s health awareness evening in Havelock North. Grayson Allen’s experience gave him the idea to MC a men’s health event in his region. He mentioned it to Scott Taylor at Hawke’s Bay Master Builders and soon it was all on. Master Builders, Master Plumbers, Master Electricians, Plumbing World, Carters and Tumu ITM all got behind the project, and thanks to this sponsorship they managed to secure Mike King as the special guest speaker for the two-hour session. Also volunteering their expertise on the night were a urology specialist, talking about prostate, kidney and testicular problems; a GP, discussing why regular check-ups are essential; and a general surgery specialist on bowel cancer and other colon and rectum conditions. A big crowd turned up and the feedback afterwards was fantastic, says Grayson. As the ambassador for The Key to Life Charitable Trust, Mike King spoke about mental health issues and the effect our own behaviour can have on our staff, colleagues and loved ones. Grayson says they hope to roll out the session nationwide.
Above: Around 220 attended the event.
Above: Mike King (left) with Grayson Allen and Scott Taylor of Master Builders.
“I think of myself as a reasonably staunch guy but have a family history of depression and suicide and have never known how to talk about it and ask the boys if they’re all good. I’m not depressed by any means but I know it’s sweet to talk about it. Thanks heaps and keep doing what you’re doing. You’re a legend in my eyes.”
Message from a participant to Mike King after the event
Protecting your business
Allan Mearns of Spratt Insurance Brokers provides advice on steps to take to get your business through should you become seriously ill. Becoming seriously unwell interrupts our lives, careers, businesses and families—not to mention our attempts to build financial independence, which for most of us comes from earned incomes. Life insurance companies offer products that can play a significant role in helping you maintain financial independence. It’s a common misconception that if you become seriously unwell you will die a lot sooner. It may well shorten your career and income path, but not necessarily affect how long you live. If you become unwell, one of the first things to do, without delay, is seek medical advice and treatment using available technologies that may reduce the effect of that illness on your later financial independence. This is the strength of private health/medical insurance. By avoiding delays inherent in the public system, your longer term outcome can be significantly better.
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August/September 2018
As your income is likely to be affected, it is useful to have an ‘artificial’ income that will pay until you are well enough to earn an actual income again. This is the domain of income protection. Along with this, an injection of cash from a critical illness/trauma policy will pay as soon as the critical illness/ trauma is diagnosed. This cash lump sum payment helps to relieve the burden on your remaining income while you are still too sick to work, and can also fund treatment not readily available in NZ. Medical conditions or illnesses are the predominant cause (between 66%-70%) of people becoming disabled—not accidents—as Grayson Allen and many others each year can attest. For more information, contact Allan Mearns at Spratt Insurance Brokers on 09 307 8200; allan.mearns@sprattfinancial.co.nz
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Transporting gas cylinders
NUTS & BOLTS
Advice on safe storage of flammable gas cylinders in work vehicles.
WORKERS HAVE DIED or been seriously injured when gas leaking from portable gas cylinders inside their work vehicle ignited, causing an explosion. In many cases, the ignition source was the vehicle’s electrical system. Lighting a cigarette in or near the vehicle could also ignite the gas. Flammable gas cylinders include those containing oxygen, acetylene, LPG, and propane or butane throwaway-style cylinders.
Control measures
Gas cylinders should be stored and transported in vehicles with cargo areas open to the air, and not stored inside closed-type vehicles. When storing or transporting fuel gas cylinders, ensure: • main cylinder valves are tightly closed • no leakage from the main valve area (eg using a gas detector or soapy water test) • cylinders are secured in an upright position • cylinders cannot be struck by other objects (eg loose tools and materials) • cylinders are always removed from the vehicle before the gas is used • at least one 10B dry-powder fire extinguisher is fitted in the driver’s cabin.
Open-type vehicles
Open-type vehicles have cargo areas open to the air with unrestricted ventilation. The cargo areas of some opentype vehicles with sides (eg, utes) can potentially retain escaped gas. This is due to escaped gas flowing to and accumulating in low, enclosed and poorly ventilated areas. If you’re not sure if your cargo area may allow gas to accumulate, assume it can until a competent person determines otherwise. The cargo area should be assessed by a competent person for its potential to retain gas, and to identify the likely areas where gas could accumulate. Consider installing vents in these areas.
Figure 1 (above left): Ensure the gas cabinet is securely mounted, with vapour-tight seals on the door and around the vent pipe. Figure 2 (above right): A side view of the gas cabinet shows the side vent and bottom drain alternatives. Vent pipes must be long enough to extend through the wall or floor of the cargo area.
Closed-type vehicles
Closed-type vehicles are vans, utes and other vehicles that have cargo areas with restricted natural air movement and ventilation. This includes vehicles where gas cylinders are stored under canopies, inside service bodies or toolboxes, and vehicles where cylinders are covered by tarps or tonneau covers. If you can’t avoid using a closed-type vehicle, it should be fitted with a separate gas storage cabinet (Figure 1) that is vapour-tight from the rest of the vehicle. The gas cabinet must be secured to the vehicle and be big enough to store all cylinders carried in the vehicle, including empty cylinders. It must be designed to ensure gas from leaking cylinders can’t accumulate inside the cabinet but is vented to the outside (Figure 2). The cabinet door must be securely sealed when cylinders are stored in the cabinet. The cabinet must have: • one or more permanent vents or drains positioned at the bottom of the cabinet (either floor or side), with an internal diameter of at least 25mm • vents located so they can’t be blocked when cylinders are in the cabinet • a way of securing cylinders in an upright and stable position (eg, straps) • a visible flammable gas label on the outside • regular inspections and maintenance of door seals and vents.
Gas cabinets must also be installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Cabinets are available from plumbing merchants, gas suppliers and safety equipment suppliers.
After using gas
When returning cylinders or cartridges to the vehicle after use: • Close the main cylinder valve, if it has one, and/or disconnect any equipment or appliance • Some designs rely on the removal of the attachments to close the valve • Check for leaks from valves, connections and equipment by applying soapy water and looking for bubbles. Smell alone is not a reliable test, even though LPG is odourised. Remember! Relying on the valves to prevent leakage during transport is not sufficient on its own. • Ensure adequate ventilation in the vehicle.
Information and training
Ensure workers are informed and trained in procedures for: • checking and testing for leaking cylinders • securing cylinders and sealing gas cabinets • regularly checking cabinet seals and vents • dealing with damage to the gas cabinet, gas leaks or explosion. August/September 2018
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NUTS & BOLTS
Medical gas pipelines Support and training is available for plumbers involved in medical gas system installations at hospitals and other health institutions, as MGPS specialist Keith McIlroy explains. OVER THE YEARS, plumbers have participated in the installation of medical gas distributed networks. Some of the skills required are much the same as commercial pipeline installation. However—depending on what standard or code is specified—validation, certification and competencies add another dimension to the installation process. Medical gases pipeline system (MGPS) is the distribution network of medical gases used for critical life support, operating theatre procedures and many other clinical and surgical purposes in hospitals, medical institutions and vets to provide a safe, regulated, compliant solution at a volume and capacity that portable medical gas bottles cannot deliver. MGPS provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for the provision of medical gases to the clinical and nursing staff at point of use.
Medical gas types and uses
A number of gases—some of which are blended, medical compressed air, vacuum and anaesthetic scavenging vacuum— can form part of a MGPS, and each has its own specific purpose for use: • •
Oxygen: extensively used for respiratory therapy and life support, and also in anaesthetic procedures Nitrous Oxide: for anaesthetic and analgesic purposes, being mixed with air, oxygen and nebuliser agents
Above: A typical commissioning kit. 34
August/September 2018
Above: Liquid oxygen vessels such as this are used at most larger facilities for storing larger amounts of oxygen than bottles.
•
Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen 50%-50% mix: for analgesic purposes, particularly in maternity departments for pain relief • Medical Air (4 bar): highly filtrated compressed air with a dew point of -46° or below at atmospheric pressure. Mainly used in respiratory therapy as a power source for patient ventilators and for blending with oxygen, it is also used as the driving gas for nebuliser drugs and chemotherapy • Surgical Air (7 bar): higher pressure medical air used to power a variety of surgical tools and devices • Carbon Dioxide: for insufflations during surgery • Vacuum: high pressure (-67 to -87 kPa)/low flow vacuum provided in most clinical areas by means of a centrally sited vacuum plant, and used to remove bodily fluids from patients • Anaesthetic Gas Scavenging System (AGSS): low pressure (-15 kPa)/high flow vacuum where nitrous oxide is provided for anaesthetic purposes, used to evacuate the patient breath to a safe outside area. In New Zealand, medical gases are covered by the Medicines Act 1981 and are classed as a medicine in Section 3 of the Act, as medical gases are intended to be ‘given’ to humans for therapeutic purposes. From the Medicines Act, the European Pharmacopoeia is one of many of the standards from which our medical gases quality standards have been set.
Above: An example of a medical air reserve manifold.
Standards and guidance documents
A number of standards can be referenced for delivering MGPS in New Zealand, some of which are standalone or form part of a suite of documents that become blended to form a projectspecific standard to meet the needs of clinical and interventional procedures: • •
ISO 7396-1:2016 1997 UK NHS Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 2022 Part A & Part B • 2006 UK NHS Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 0201 Part A & Part B • AS 2896:2011 Medical gases systems – Installation and testing of non-flammable medical gas pipeline systems • NFPA99: Health Care Facilities Code 2012. This document from the American National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is not usually referenced as a design guide but NFPA standard equipment is frequently sourced from US or Canadian manufacturers. At present, there is no mandatory standard for pipe medical gases in New Zealand, although most alterations and new installations are designed using the guidance in HTM 02-01 Part A: Design, Installation, Validation and Verification. >
Above: An oxygen reducing panel.
NUTS & BOLTS
Above: An example of a medical service panel (MSP), providing the power, data, nurse call and medical gases in a hospital ward’s bed bay area.
The guidance from Part A provides a comprehensive technical guide on how a medical gases system is designed, how it is installed and how to verify the system to ensure it is safe before placing into use. The guidance from Part B provides a comprehensive technical guide for day-to-day operational management of medical gases. This standard also places emphasis on competencies (training/ qualification) of all involved, from the designer and verifier to the installer and those responsible for operational procedures. The above standards and guidance documents set the minimum level of quality required to ensure a safe supply of medical gases and to meet the delivery flow demand.
Validation process
There are four critical safety tenets: • • • •
Gases continuously Adequate supply Gases of the correct identity Gases of a defined quality.
Independent verification plays an important part in ensuring these four tenets are achieved following the installation of a new medical gas installation or alteration. This validation process is performed to ensure the system is safe and meets clinical requirements before placing into service. The validation process has several stages, with multiple checks and tests. In essence, the verifier is checking: • • • • • •
no leaks in system no particulate matter in pipeline no cross connections flow rate meets design rate no inter-changeability between gases gas identity proven at the outlet.
As medical gases are classed as a medicine, someone licensed to dispense medicine (generally an anaesthetist) is required to witness the testing.
Copper tube sizing and selection
Copper tube is the preferred product and is widely used for conveyance of medical gases distribution. Using the correct 36
August/September 2018
pipe, sizing and installation/brazing techniques is critical to the performance of medical gas lines. The copper tube standard in New Zealand is AS/NZ 1571 but the thickness must not be less than as specified in AS 1432-2004 Copper tubes for plumbing, gasfitting and drainage applications Type B, which can be found in The Plumbers Handbook, produced by The Australian Copper Tube Industry. This copper tube differs from what you can purchase from plumbing merchants, as it has been cleaned for use with oxygen, capped to prevent ingress of contaminants and is a different size from our domestic copper tube and fittings. Cutting copper tube for use with medical gases can only be done with a wheel cutter. In New Zealand, MM Kembla has a full range of tubes and fittings. The sizing and selection of copper tube is critical to system performance. Care must be taken when designing to HTM 0201 within New Zealand, and using AS/NZS pipe sizing, as the standard references British Standards pipe, which differs in gauge and dimension. This is a design watch point that can be missed during design and becomes an issue at validation. Copper to copper brazed joints are made using only 15% SilFos. To prevent the build-up of carbon on the inside, a low flow of oxygen free nitrogen is introduced into the pipework being worked on, and past the joint being brazed on.
Technical courses available
Medical gases systems installations are performed by contractors who are competent, qualified and experienced in such installations and it is an area that plumbers, air conditioning and mechanical firms have been involved in when a health institution requires a new build or alterations. For those wishing to install medical gases in New Zealand, there are now HTM courses available to upskill or meet contractual obligation. These courses are broken down into two different categories: CP (Competent Person) and AP (Authorised Person). A CP is someone who has received training for the installation and maintenance of MGPS and an AP is responsible for the dayto-day management of the MGPS on a particular site. Course information can be obtained at mgps.co.nz The installation of medical gases is not to be taken lightly, as there have been documented fatalities from overseas as a result of incorrect installations and cross connections—and it is important that commissioning of alterations or new installations takes place. ■ About the author: Keith McIlroy from Medical Gases Installations Ltd is a Certifying Plumber and owner of Medical Gases Installations Ltd. For the last 12 years, he has been involved with medical gases. Both a MGPS CP & AP, he is now able to provide verification of altered or new MGPS. If you require the verification of your medical gases installation, Keith can travel to your site to provide independent commissioning, function checks and maintenance at both the installation stage and before placing into use. Contact Keith at keith.mcilroy@xtra.co.nz or 027 467 0846.
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Tech points AS/NZS 3500:2018 PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE Following extensive work by industry, technical experts, regulators and consumers, AS/NZS 3500:2018 Plumbing and drainage Parts 1 to 4 were published in late June. The standards are: • AS/NZS 3500.1:2018, Plumbing and drainage Part 1: Water services • AS/NZS 3500.2:2018, Plumbing and drainage Part 2: Sanitary plumbing and drainage • AS/NZS 3500.3:2018, Plumbing and drainage Part 3: Stormwater drainage • AS/NZS 3500.4:2018, Plumbing and drainage Part 4: Heated water services. “The standards… are examples of those that impact our lives every day, without even realising it,” said Standards Australia CEO Dr Bronwyn Evans on announcing their publication. Dr Evans went on to thank the individuals and organisations who contributed to the standards, which include Master Plumbers in New Zealand. “With these publications we can be sure that we will continue to have the benefits of clean drinking water, safe sanitation and effective and efficient hot water systems.” Jon Lewis of Master Plumbers member business The Lewis Plumbing Company in Rotorua was among the representatives on the WS-014 plumbing and drainage standards committee. He is also on the WS-023 backflow prevention committee. “The last round of WS-014 work did not really incorporate backflow prevention," says Jon. “Both the New Zealand and Australian members on WS-023 are working to get the standards more aligned with each other. The next round of work, later this year, for the WS-014 working group will also hopefully bring New Zealand and Australia more in alignment, as it will be looking more closely at the part of the standard specific to backflow prevention.”
CHAT TO THE BOT Questions about licensing, supervision, registration, CPD? Try asking James—the PGDB’s new chatbot. Powered by artificial intelligence, James works on mobile or the web and is available 24/7 to answer your queries about the PGDB’s services. He’s still learning, says the PGDB—so if he can’t figure out the right answer, he’ll hand you over to a human. Just look for the chatbot icon at www.pgdb.co.nz and start typing your message.
IDENTIFYING PROHIBITED CABLE Following recent prohibition notices regarding TPS building wiring cable, WorkSafe has been asked if there is an easy way to identify this cable, which may have been supplied and installed within installations by Lyon Electrical Ltd since June 2016. The cable is best identified by the marking on the sheath including EESS-150102-0, it says. “Where ‘EESS’ cables are thought to have been used, it is important to check all cable runs because the ‘EESS’ cable was identified to have been used for sections of sub-circuits. This can
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August/September 2018
This edition’s brief technical updates include news of the 2018 publication of AS/NZS 3500 parts 1-4.
be checked by inspecting the cable at all fittings. “All confirmed installations to date have the Red (Active) conductor located at the side of the flat profile layout. “If Lyon Electrical had been involved in the wiring work and the cable with the red conductor located at the side of the flat cable, the ‘EESS’ cables are very likely to have been installed on the site and therefore a further check on markings of the flat cables should be carried out. “Where one run of cable and an installation has been positively identified as being the ‘EESS’ cable, it’s likely that all runs of cable which have the red conductor located at the side of the flat cable profile will also be ‘EESS’ cable. “Note that the ‘EESS’ cables were also only 1.5, 2.5, 4 and 6 mm2; any cables with the Red (Active) conductor in the centre (the AS/NZS 5000 preference) will not be ‘EESS’ TPS covered by the prohibitions and therefore the marking does not need to be checked.”
GETTING OUT THE GAS MESSAGE In its latest Gasline newsletter, Gas NZ says residential gas consumers are raising concerns about gas usage in their homes following the government’s recent ban of new offshore drilling permits. This has led many to believe NZ’s gas supply is limited, which is not the case. Gas NZ has been exploring ways to reassure consumers that gas is still a great option for their household needs, now and for years to come. “Gas NZ has been actively meeting with relevant MPs and officials to… advocate for gas and the many benefits it has, both environmentally and economically,” says Gas NZ chairperson Stuart Dickson. A set of Q&As is planned for the Beauty of Gas website. Watch this space for more information, it says.
NEW PRODUCT TESTING STANDARD Standards New Zealand has published AS/NZS 4020:2018 – Testing of products for use in contact with drinking water. It specifies requirements for the suitability of products that are used in contact with drinking water, with regard to their effect on the quality of the water. In preparing the standard, consideration has been given to comparable overseas standards, to minimise duplication of effort and to maintain commonality, wherever reasonable. Particular consideration has been given to the various parts of BS 6920 Suitability of non-metallic products for use in contact with water intended for human consumption with regard to their effect on the quality of the water. Several of the test procedures and criteria given in BS 6920 have been adopted or modified for Australian and NZ requirements.
NUTS & BOLTS
Passing the OSET test An AES passive septic treatment system has just passed a performance test with flying colours at the On-site Effluent Treatment National Testing Programme facility in Rotorua.
AN AES-38 passive septic treatment system by Environment Technology was tested in Trial 12 of the On-site Effluent Treatment (OSET) National Testing Programme. It easily achieved AS/NZS 1547:2012 secondary quality performance requirements with a median Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)5 of 2mg/l (A+) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) of 3 mg/L (A+). When ‘stress tested’ with 1000l/day, OSET results were achieved in a sand bed 750mm deep, 8m long and 2.5m wide with four rows of 300mm diameter AES pipe—27 metres in total. At 100% over the design load at 2000l/day, BOD and TSS were 2.66 mg/l and 4 mg/l respectively. To facilitate testing the AES-38 system was installed aboveground in a wooden, polythene-lined bed. Most standard passive AES treatment systems are installed in unlined, belowground beds where the sand bed base area is calculated using the Design Loading Rate (DLR) of the receiving soil to match the influent volume. However, in-ground lined AES beds are common when
Above: ET directors Dick Lamb and Hazel Pearson and the AES system at OSET-NTP.
DLRs go less than 10mm/day for draining to pump or siphon chambers for dripper disposal—and for recirculation for further nitrogen (N) reduction or ultimate UV disinfection. The OSET AES plant is currently operating for Trial 13 in N reduction mode and UV disinfection with N at 6mg/l and Field Capacities (FCs) <4 using less than 1.0 kW/day with a submersible pump recirculating to a pipe grid at the base of the septic tank. This AES system can be put together by one drainlayer with a digger in two days. AES-38 systems usually function in NZ without pumps, power, filters or computers. Systems exposed after 20 years have been shown to have a healthy biofilm at the base of the pipes and clean unclogged system sand.
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August/September 2018
39
INNOVATION
Handling the heat A tour of the Rheem NZ factory offers a fascinating insight into the storage water heater manufacturing process.
NEXT TIME YOU install an electric or gas storage water heater, give a thought to how it was made. The hot water cylinder you put in your client’s house started out as a flat sheet of metal, before being punched with inlets and element holes. From there, it got rolled and welded, the top dome and base added, and finally it was enclosed in a jacket and insulated. That’s not to mention all the tests and checks along the way to ensure it wouldn’t leak or fail under pressure. At the 3052m2 Rheem factory in Auckland’s Avondale, two assembly lines produce cylinders in mains and low pressure vitreous enamel (VE) and low pressure copper. The busiest line, in keeping with domestic demand, is VE mains pressure. A super tough lining, VE prevents cylinder corrosion.
On the mains line The actual VE lining process doesn’t feature until the cylinder has first passed through the hands of several machine operators who punch, roll and MIG weld the steel. After welding, the cylinder goes through another machine to create a completely flat surface around each socket hole, ensuring a tidy weld when fittings are added later. The VE coating is applied to both cylinder bodies and domes. Mains pressure domes arrive pre-pressed and punched from Rheem’s Australian factory. To ready them for coating, they are etched by steel grit in a huge, fast-moving carbine. Cylinders go into a separate spray booth and are set spinning for a thorough internal coating. Dome and cylinder are then separately hooked to a line that sends them through the 900°C furnace for six minutes to fire the enamel, from which they emerge a dark chocolate brown.
Above: Brazing in action on the low pressure copper line.
two assembly lines produce cylinders in mains and low pressure VE and low pressure copper Tests and checks
Above: The XY turret, where inlet and element holes are punched into the flat steel sheets. 40
August/September 2018
Once out of the furnace, every cylinder is quality checked to make sure the enamel is 100% (the slightest flaw and it’s back for a respray). From here, a magnesium sacrificial anode is fitted inside the cylinder as an added corrosion barrier, all threads are given a manual check and the base is welded. At this stage, pressure testing can be carried out to ensure no leaks around the welding. Cylinders are filled with water recycled to and from a header tank, then pressurised up to 1000kPa—twice the normal household pressure. Random 250,000 cycle fatigue tests are also carried out in an external cage, along with over-pressure testing up to 2000kPa.
INNOVATION
Insulation is key Pumping a thick layer of foam insulation around the cylinder is a key part of the manufacturing processâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and almost the final step before the element is fitted to the electric cylinder range. Gas cylinders are also manufactured in bi-monthly batches. A foaming agent is pumped at high pressure through the top of a carousel holding up to nine cylinders. It takes 23 minutes to complete a turn of the carousel and a further 30 minutes for the foam to solidify as the gases escape. In recent times, Rheem has moved to using Solstice blown foam, which exceeds MEPs requirements, has zero ozone depleting properties and zero global warming potential. The efficacy of the insulation is constantly measured in a dedicated heat loss testing room.
A loyal team Standard work procedures enable factory staff to change out their roles on a regular basis to add variety to the working day. All staff are encouraged to share their ideas at daily toolbox meetings in the factory, with any process improvement ideas noted on a whiteboard. Those whose ideas are successfully implemented are acknowledged and rewarded. >
standard work procedures enable factory staff to change out their roles on a regular basis
Above: Spray nozzles at the VE spray booth have to be replaced every two weeks.
Low pressure vs mains pressure Mains pressure is the norm in most Western countries other than NZ and the UK, where some pre-1980s homes still have low hot water pressure of 100kPa and less. This is likely to change eventually, as householders upgrade to mains pressure for better performance. Until that day comes, Rheem continues to make low pressure VE and copper water heaters to satisfy demand. As copper cylinder manufacture is less automated, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to offer custom-made products alongside the standard range. Rheem also keeps copper models going back many years to ensure like-for-like replacements remain available.
Above: Up to nine cylinders at a time can be insulated on the foam pumping carousel. August/September 2018 41
INNOVATION
All up there are 95 staff at the Auckland factory, warehouse and head office, including those working in finance, marketing, technical, customer services and operations. The different departments each host a monthly BBQ lunch, at which service and other awards are acknowledged. The average tenure is currently 17 years, with one staff member recently recognised for an impressive 50 years’ service. Rheem NZ started manufacturing electric water heaters in 1973 and is now one of 10 Rheem ‘Centres of Excellence’ around the world, each making particular products. Rheem NZ, for example, is the sole manufacturer of boiling and chilled water products, comprising Zip and Lazer wall-mounted units, and the On-Tap underbench tap range. Boiling water products have their own manufacturing space in the factory. As with the cylinders, tanks for the wall-mounted and under-bench units are made in-house from copper sheets that are cut, folded, punched and brazed by factory staff. ■
Above: A cylinder dome is given its VE coating.
Factory tours are available to groups by appointment. Call 0800 657 336.
Did you know? • • • •
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Rheem started out in San Francisco in 1925. Globally, Rheem employs 15,000 people. Rheem was established in NZ in 1958. Rheem NZ employs around 105 people at its manufacturing site in Auckland and the Peter Cocks plant in Christchurch. Rheem NZ started making gas and electric mains pressure cylinders in 1973. Paloma in Japan bought Rheem USA in 1987 and Rheem Australia and New Zealand in 2002. Rheem NZ bought Peter Cocks in 2016. Rheem gas continuous flow water heaters are manufactured in Japan. The majority of water heaters in Australia are positioned outside—it's the opposite in New Zealand. 180 litre cylinder models are the most popular in the North Island. In the South Island it’s the 250-300 litre models. All Rheem boiling water products carry the New Zealand FernMark, and its electric water heaters carry the Buy NZ Made trademark. To remain licensed, products go through an annual accreditation process, which requires a full list of componentry and country of origin.
Above: Attaching the insulated bases.
Above: VE coated cylinders are hung on hooks ready to be fired at 900°C in the furnace. 42
August/September 2018
Installer support • •
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In-house technical staff are on hand to assist plumbers and gasfitters who call with queries. Products are set up in the training room, with installation and fault diagnosis training available to groups on request at the Auckland HQ and nationwide. All feedback from plumbers and gasfitters is logged, investigated and actioned as appropriate. Products are constantly improved upon, with ease of installation a priority. For example, mains pressure cylinders now have dual and sometimes triple inlet options for flexible positioning. Inlets have also been raised to help meet Building Code safe tray requirements in new builds.
boiling water products have their own manufacturing space in the factory
Above: After rolling, the cylinders are MIG welded for a watertight seam.
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INDUSTRY TALK
Sam’s speak
Thoughts from Sam Tyson on planning your business around skill shortages.
AT PRESENT IN New Zealand, we are experiencing a ‘capacity restrained’ economy. In other words, the labour market has become exceptionally tight and we have a ‘jobs boom’ on our hands. The construction industry is particularly affected with a shortage of skilled tradespeople. This means we can no longer grow our plumbing businesses simply by adding extra staff. We need to look at how we are going to face a future without a pool of tradespeople to pluck from. Labour shortages in our industry can create a high-stress environment in the workplace, when the influx of jobs is so great and there aren’t enough resources to attend to them. Your customers get annoyed, your staff call in sick, and everything can turn to chaos.
Don’t let money rule recruitment
A lack of available staff can also lead to some underhand tactics, where tradespeople are tapped on the shoulder with an offer of more money being the key incentive to get them to move. It can also make it easy to lose sight of equal pay for equal work. When you do find that person and bring them on at a high salary or wage rate because you are desperate—and they’re in a position to demand it—it’s not fair on the people who have been working in your company for some time. To avoid having to increase pay rates each time you employ a new person, define the roles in your business and define the base rate you will pay for each role. Then define the pay range for performance and the peak amount you will pay a person in that role. Don’t let money rule your recruitment—make your business a safe, secure place to be, build your team culture and let the associated benefits of being a part of it be the tipping point for people wanting to join your team. For some businesses, their answer to dealing with a shortage of tradespeople is simply to stop attracting customers by easing off advertising, raising prices if feasible, and being more selective with who they do business with.
are done and coming up with new, faster, easier, ways that are less labour intensive. We have invested in labour-saving technology like better software, computer systems, tools and machinery. We are finding ways to collaborate with other businesses, using their resources as well as diversifying and specialising in the products and services we offer. For plumbing businesses who feel they have things well under control and are not affected by labour shortages at present, think about how you would operate if one or two of your key staff left and you couldn’t find replacements. Being selective about which customers to service, ensuring your workplace environment is appealing, continually improving your methods, and refining your offering has now become essential for plumbing businesses in New Zealand preparing for changes in labour availability.
Labour-saving strategies
At Climate & Plumbing, we have been looking at labour-saving strategies in our business. These include analysing how things
we have invested in laboursaving technology like better software, tools and machinery August/September 2018 45
INDUSTRY TALK
Water filter company charged
A water filter company has been charged over its water softening claims.
Infringement notice for caravan supplier
In June, HRV Clean Water Ltd pleaded guilty to 11 charges laid by the Commerce Commission for the unsubstantiated (unproven) or misleading claims it made about the benefits of its water filters, and about the quality of New Zealand’s domestic water supply. Charges were laid in Auckland District Court under the Fair Trading Act. The charges relate to claims HRV made between July 2014 and October 2017 on its website, in promotional materials and to customers and the public at presentations. The Commission charges are that HRV made unsubstantiated claims about: • The ability of its water filter systems to soften water • The benefits consumers could expect of soft water after using the water filters • The water filters’ ability to reduce skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Its other charges are that HRV made misleading representations about the levels of chemicals and additives in NZ’s domestic water supply, and the need for consumers to buy a water filter to address this. A sentencing date has been set for September.
A Christchurch caravan supplier recently received an infringement notice for the sale of non-compliant caravans. WorkSafe NZ issued the $3,000 infringement fee to the supplier for offering to supply non-compliant second hand caravans imported from the UK. Despite already offering compliant caravans for sale, the supplier was also offering non-compliant caravans for sale and advising the purchaser that they would need to bring the caravan into compliance. Under the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010, caravans imported to New Zealand must be compliant before being offered for sale to consumers, ensuring the gas installation complies with the regulations. WorkSafe considers the supplier’s actions put the safety of consumers at risk.
A Christchurch caravan supplier has been issued with an infringement notice.
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INDUSTRY TALK
In the office
Depression is not a sign of weakness, says Andrea Lovell. Depression… It’s a subject that not a lot of guys like to talk about. Maybe that’s because from an early age they are told they have to be strong—and that boys don’t cry. Or maybe they think that it’s a sign of weakness? However, I have learned that this is a subject that we must approach and talk about. A year ago, at a toolbox meeting, I brought up the subject of depression. I wanted our staff to know that there are people around if any of them wanted to talk. I also wanted to let them know that we as a company are happy to pay for them to see a counsellor if they need someone independent to talk to. During that discussion, two staff members put their hands up and said they had had depression at different times in their lives, and had both made it out the other side. I was so proud that they stood up and let other staff members know that you can get through it and it is OK to talk about. After the meeting another staff member came and saw me, asking for help to get in contact with a counsellor. Depression is not about been weak! The more that we are willing to talk about this subject, the more lives that will be saved.
CodeMark suspension CodeMark certificates for six ACP products have been suspended and changes made to Building Code fire protection Acceptable Solutions. The use of PE core aluminium composite panels (ACPs) for external cladding has been the subject of several avenues of inquiry, here and overseas, following a number of high-profile fires—including the UK’s Grenfell Tower. Changes have been made to the NZ Building Code Acceptable Solutions for Protection from Fire to restrict the use of combustible cladding on buildings above three storeys. MBIE commissioned an audit of CodeMark certificates attached to ACP products, which identified insufficient documentation to support evidence of compliance with the fire performance clauses of the Building Code. As a result MBIE has suspended six ACP CodeMark certificates and given manufacturers the opportunity to rectify issues identified. Whilst the process has not unearthed evidence that these products are dangerous, Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) can no longer rely upon these CodeMark certificates as evidence that the products comply with Building Code requirements while they are in a state of suspension. BCAs will be required to consider product use on a case-by-case basis.
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Signs of depression to look out for: • Changes in appetite or eating • Decreased energy, fatigue • Headaches, stomach-aches, digestive problems • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed • Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions • Neglecting responsibilities or personal appearance • Persistent sad or empty mood lasting two or more weeks • Crying for no reason Feeling hopeless, helpless, guilty or worthless Feeling irritable or anxious Argumentative attitude, or who cares attitude Consistent days off after the weekend Thoughts of death or suicide.
For free, confidential support 24/7, call Lifeline on 0800 543 354 or free txt 4357. Whatever the issue, their qualified counsellors and trained volunteers are there to listen.
Construction Pipeline Report 2018
The National Construction Pipeline report for 2018 was released on 31 July. The report provides the market with a six-year projection of national building and construction work. “Of note from the report is that total new construction value shows continual growth for the forecast period,” said Anna Butler, General Manager of MBIE’s Building System Performance branch in its latest Codewords (Issue 85). “This is unique compared with previous years which have a peak followed by a decline in activity—so it is a welcome shift away from New Zealand’s usual ‘boom-bust’ cycle. These cycles have reduced the certainty and confidence the sector needed to grow skills and workforce—and keep them. “With the guaranteed pipeline of work provided by KiwiBuild, the support provided by the Action Plan, and now the projections from the Pipeline report, there is an expectation the sector will invest in skills over the long term.” Find the report at www.mbie.govt.nz by typing National Construction Pipeline into the search bar. August/September 2018 47
INDUSTRY TALK
Kohler on the ball
Kohler Co has become the principal partner for Manchester United. Manchester United was well represented at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, with no fewer than 11 Man Utd players going to the tournament in June. Now global brand Kohler has announced its multi-year partnership with the soccer club. The Kohler brand logo will feature on the sleeve of the iconic and best-selling club shirt, for both the men’s and women’s teams. The partnership also includes joint participation on game day activities, improvements to club facilities, global sustainability and social responsibility projects, says the company. Manchester United and Kohler marked the partnership with United fans in July, when the new 2018/19 shirt was worn for
Above: Kohler has become the first shirt sleeve partner for Manchester United’s men’s and women’s teams.
Above: David Kohler at Manchester United’s Old Trafford home.
the first time by the men’s team in the opening fixture of its Tour 2018 against Club America in Phoenix, Arizona. “Our partnership with Manchester United provides new opportunities to showcase the quality of Kohler products and services with passionate fans of the most far-reaching and revered sports team on the planet,” said Kohler Co CEO and President David Kohler. “An essential component of the relationship is our support of the new professional women’s team, and we look forward to their debut and our ongoing support. Manchester United embodies sustained excellence in everything they do and our shared values are a perfect match as we expand our fast-growing international presence into new regions with purpose and a meaningful presence.” Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, Kohler Co is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. With more than 50 manufacturing locations worldwide, the company is known for the design, innovation and manufacture of kitchen and bath products, as well as engines and power systems, and luxury cabinetry and tile.
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INDUSTRY TALK
Bella Vista: a lesson
Councils around New Zealand have lessons to learn from Tauranga’s disastrous Bella Vista Homes development. “Why so much compliance when really in all reality it counts for nothing?” said Mike Hosking on Newstalk ZB in June, as Tauranga City Council (TCC) announced it would compensate the families in the Bella Vista saga by purchasing all 21 affected homes—four of which had been issued with Code Compliance Certificates. When NZ Plumber went to print, two of the homeowners had rejected TCC’s contract price offer in July, preferring to take court action, and others were yet to decide. The true scale of the problem on The Lakes development began to unfold when the Council started assessing properties following the voluntary liquidation of Bella Vista Homes last November—with developer Danny Cancian putting some of the blame for the company’s failure on slow consent processes and regulatory red tape. On 9 March this year, residents of the affected properties were told to vacate their homes for a week, as a geotechnical expert had advised TCC that emergency works were needed ahead of a potential cyclone. However, the evacuation timeline extended as increasing numbers of major structural defects were uncovered. Reporting on the evacuation, the Bay of Plenty Times noted that homes had been built before retaining walls were in place. According to the newspaper, TCC Chief Executive Garry Poole (who left his role
in August after his contract was not renewed) said he brought the absence of retaining walls to the attention of builders and Bella Vista many times but the Building Act didn’t empower the Council to enforce the sequence of the building process. This April, TCC engaged former High Court judge Paul Heath QC to consider the role the Council played at various stages of the development and construction of the Bella Vista subdivision, and to express views about whether its performance of various regulatory functions was adequate. His subsequent 158-page report, issued in June, found TCC had acted correctly in some areas but failed in others, noted the Bay of Plenty Times in June. Failures included its monitoring and enforcement functions under the RMA in relation to geotechnical aspects of the intended construction works. The report also found that TCC ought not to have issued Code Compliance Certificates on the four properties. According to the newspaper, Heath noted that the absence of an appropriate retaining wall was obvious even to a nonprofessional, and the council’s inspectors ought to have observed the structural defects identified. He stressed the importance of investigating what lessons could be learned from the failures. Creditors are still owed millions and Bunnings has publicly notified that it has filed court proceedings against Cancian.
INDUSTRY TALK
Construction in crisis?
The recent collapse of Ebert Construction is no surprise, going by the findings of a 2018 survey of New Zealand construction industry businesses. In April, BDO carried out a survey of NZ construction industry companies, subcontractors, material suppliers and consultants. It covered housing, commercial construction and civil/ infrastructure. The big financial issues emerging from the survey results are cashflow, poor margins, retentions regime non-compliance, resources, risk transfer and the expectation for growth but limited capacity to grow.
Low margins ‘not sustainable’
There is too much emphasis in NZ on price compared to quality and whole-of-life costs, according to the report. Head contractors’ margins are too low and not sustainable, it says. Low sub-contractor margins are also a risk and a concern. “Sub-contractors generally have a much lower turnover than head contractors and also generally have a higher proportion of overheads. For those achieving a gross margin of under 10%, it is unlikely that they are making a worthwhile net profit and therefore their long term financial viability must be in question.
Subcontractor retention concerns
As a member of the NZ Specialist Trade Contractors Federation (NZSTCF), Master Plumbers is working to ensure the Government holds lead contractors to account to ensure sub-contractors are protected. “Our members have expressed a number of concerns about retentions,” says CEO Greg Wallace. “With the BDO survey results indicating a lack of compliance by almost a third of construction companies, our members are at real risk when a company collapses, as the recent Ebert Construction has shown. “Members are also finding it difficult at times to discuss retentions with lead contractors and we are looking at ways to ensure open communication between the two parties. “It is also of concern that some main contractors are holding all retentions until a job is completed. Our members may have finished their aspect of the project but have to wait for other subcontractors to complete before they get paid. This could potentially disadvantage them financially.” In August, Master Plumbers members were asked to complete a survey on retentions to help the NZSTCF better understand subcontractors’ position following company collapses. Construction lawyer Kevin Badcock has urged NZSTCF members to take a more active approach to managing retentions. BDO’s report is timely, he says, given recent high-profile company failures. “The industry seems in a very precarious position at present. Subbies need to take far more active approach to managing their retentions withheld. The CCA gives some teeth, so use them. “Don’t forget that cashflow is the lifeblood of the industry and that the squeaky wheel gets oiled first. You want to be the first one paid not the last! Use whatever tools you have at your disposal to achieve this.”
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“Similar to the head contractors, after staff availability or quality, cost control and cost increases were the greatest concern so there is major pressure on margins. We need to look after our sub-contractors for the survival of the industry.” Whilst noting the need to protect sub-contractors, the report also suggests sub-contractors need to operate their businesses in a professional manner, “perhaps learning and making a few changes after reading this report”.
Retentions regime non-compliance
The Construction Contracts Amendment Act 2015 introduced the requirement for those that deduct retentions to hold those retention monies in trust for contracts entered into on or after 31 March 2017. “The Act places the onus for enforcement on those that have retentions deducted from their progress claims by giving them the ability to inspect the trust records at any reasonable time,” says the report. However, of those who have retentions deducted, 74% of survey respondents have not asked to inspect or confirm that their retentions are held in trust. “Surprisingly it’s the larger companies that face the higher risks and should be more aware of managing their risks that have failed to ask: 90% of large construction companies and 70% of large subcontractors.” For those who did ask to inspect retentions records, the results were equally concerning—with 36% finding at least one customer who was not holding funds in trust or covered by insurance. The new legal requirements are confusing and appear to be poorly understood, notes the report, with nearly a third of companies surveyed not complying. The most likely reason for this, it adds, is a lack of funds to do so. If a construction company didn’t have spare financial reserves at the start of the new regime, it has had no ability to quickly accumulate those financial reservices subsequently, “and if margins remain at current levels, [it] will always struggle to build sufficient financial reserves to either satisfy their insurer or put funds in trust. For their and everyone’s survival, margins in the industry clearly need to improve.” Read the BDO Construction Survey Report in full at www.bdo.nz
INDUSTRY TALK
People
Some new appointments to note. New CE for Site Safe Brett Murray has been appointed as new Chief Executive for not-for-profit organisation Site Safe. He will take over from outgoing Chief Executive Alison Molloy on 3 September. “Brett brings an extensive knowledge of health and safety, and a wealth of experience to the position,” says Site Above: New Site Safe Chief Executive Brett Murray. Safe Chairman Peter Jackson. “We are confident his leadership abilities and understanding of the health and safety environment make him the right person to guide Site Safe through the next stage of our journey.” Brett’s background in health and safety includes several senior roles with WorkSafe, MBIE and the Department and Labour. Most recently, as General Manager Operations at WorkSafe, he was responsible for WorkSafe’s inspectorate and technical support functions. While Central Region Manager at the Department of Labour, he headed the investigation into the Pike River disaster. “Safe and healthy workplaces are productive workplaces,” he says. “I firmly believe good health and safety practices are the cornerstone of operational excellence and that the construction sector can lead the way in New Zealand being recognised as a safe country to work in.”
New GM for simPRO in NZ Job management software company simPRO has appointed a new General Manager to oversee its New Zealand growth strategy. Ricky Sevta, who most recently worked as Business Manager for VAE Group, took up the role in July. He replaces Richard Pratley, who has taken up the role of Managing Director Above: New simPRO General Manager with simPRO in the UK. Ricky Sevta Ricky Sevta. has spent several years working in New Zealand’s business sector, with a background in business strategy and management in electrical, HVAC and building services industries. simPRO takes care of more than 4,000 businesses around the world. “Ricky has also held positions within Schneider Electric, which allowed him to work closely with Richard,” says Sean Diljore, simPRO Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer. “His existing relationship with simPRO and his proven experience in leading and managing diverse teams will certainly help deliver positive outcomes for the company. “This appointment is in the best interest for simPRO. By redistributing valuable knowledge and experience and bringing on fresh talent, we’ll ensure that all of our customers across the world are taken care of by the best minds in the industry.”
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
BRAD CADMAN AND apprentice Adam Barclay, from Henderson-based Heron Plumbing, spent two weeks completing the project at Peacehaven Home and Hospital in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland. The work needed to be done after a new block was added to the complex, which is run by CHT Healthcare Trust, taking its total capacity to 60 beds.
Pre-planning vital
Brad says he and Adam had to spend plenty of time planning at the start of the job because the space they had to build the plant room in was limited. “One of the problems we encountered was fitting so much pipework into such a small space,” Brad says. “Another one was getting the plant room live because we had to shut down services to the whole complex to connect it to the boiler room. This was hard because the village needed hot and cold water at all times, as well as gas. “But fitting in, both the pipework and with activity at the home, was all a matter of doing some good pre-planning.”
Brad says the old Peacehaven plant room had to be replaced because it would have been unable to handle the extra demands created by the increased number of residents at the home. “The project involved installing two natural gas-fuelled Valiant condensing boilers, two 500-litre stainless steel storage tanks with inbuilt heat exchanger coils for a circulating hot water system, and these were circulated by a Lowara circulating pump,” he says. “The tanks were run off limited mains pressure, with an automatic emergency tank supply. We had to sort a 60°C water output, then tempered by a 40mm Fat Boy mixing valve to 45°C with a return line treated with UV filtration unit. “This was all installed to supply hot water to any fixtures in the retirement village.”
we had to shut down services to the whole complex to connect it to the boiler room Hands-on experience
Above: The network of pipes on the completed plant room at Peacehaven Home and Hospital. 52
August/September 2018
Adam’s involvement with the project has broadened his knowledge base as he undertakes his plumbing apprenticeship. “Adam would have picked up many skills from doing this work at Peacehaven, such as pre-planning his work because we had lots of pipes installed in a small place and it is easy to accidentally install something in the way of another pipe route,” Brad says. “Adam also got to do work on gasfitting and MDPE pipe welding, gained specific knowledge in circulated hot water, and learnt about the rules and regulations within a rest home.” Other areas of expertise Adam gained knowledge of during the installation included working with stainless steel pipe and crimp systems.
Above: Peacehaven Home and Hospital in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland, recently expanded its capacity to 60 beds.
Brad says the pair faced time constraints in getting the task completed in April last year, but they were very pleased with the presentation of the plant room.
Happy clients
Peacehaven’s Unit Manager, Wynnona Faustino, wrote in a summer newsletter to residents about how pleased she was now the site’s major refurbishment, which included the new plant room, had been completed. “Every season marks new beginnings and inspirations and with this, Peacehaven has achieved a new milestone as it opens its 15 new rooms to incoming residents,” she wrote. “We now have 60 beds. The facility refurbishment started way back in February 2016 and is now complete. “The residents are enjoying their newly refurbished common areas with new furniture and carpet. The bedrooms have undergone a makeover as well, with their new carpets, drapes and furnishings. The car park can now accommodate more vehicles than it did before. As for the landscape, the plants are still in the process of growing but they hold a promise of astonishing us with their foliage in the months to come.” ■
Photograph courtesy of CHT Healthcare Trust.
Tight space plumbing
The expansion of an Auckland rest home caused big challenges in a small space for two plumbers tasked with refitting the site’s plant room. By Matthew Lowe.
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SMART BUSINESS
It’s quote time The golden rule for quoting a job is to charge enough to cover your overheads and allow for a net profit, advises Dan Pollard. WE ALL KNOW there’s never any point of winning a job if it’s priced so tight that there’s nothing left over. But, what happens when you quote the job as you should, only to find it comes to an eye-watering sum? I know this happened to me many times in my own plumbing businesses. And, I knew if I was shocked by the amount, I could only imagine what my customer would have thought when they received it! That’s where presenting the quote to your customer is a skill worth perfecting. You need to be able to explain the true value of the service you’re providing, and how you came to your final figure, if you’re serious about winning the work. Firing off a quote via email just doesn’t cut it when it comes to high-value jobs.
scheduling a time with your client to deliver the quote personally Start by scheduling a time with your client to deliver the quote personally. Say you’ll need about 20 minutes of their time, either over the phone or in person, to take them through the process you used to come to your final price. Make sure in that 20 minutes you also provide a full breakdown of your labour and material costs and any extras they might have missed if they’d simply skim-read the quote. Throughout the conversation, it pays to repeat the customer’s problem back to them and explain how the service you provide is the answer to their problem. You want to sell the value of the service you bring, not the cost of it. If, after you’ve explained your costs, they ask why it’s so much, be clear you don’t like asking for extras afterwards, which is why you’ve included absolutely every cost you can think of. 54
August/September 2018
If they say they’ve already received another quote for much less than yours, then explain you just don’t think the work can be done to a high standard for anything less than what you’ve quoted for. They could be compromising on quality, or find themselves landed with ‘extra’ costs, if they choose to go with your competitor. If they want to negotiate, then say yes it’s possible if they are also willing to negotiate. Perhaps they can adjust the scope of the project or change the risk profile, which would help you reduce your costs. Obviously, you want to have a clear idea of your profit margins when
provide a full breakdown of your labour and material costs
you’re negotiating. There’s no point in bowing down to the ‘market rate’ if you’re not making any money. ■ Get more business advice from Dan by attending the new nationwide ‘Four Levers to Make Sure your Business is Winning’ training course, jointly presented by Fergus, Master Plumbers and Mico. More details at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/ training
About the author: Dan Pollard is a veteran tradie who, after going bust once and burning out once, figured a trades business needs proper systems in place to keep it running— without running its owner into the ground. In his search for great systems, he developed Fergus Job Management Software and it was so good he was able to grow his business from four vans to 15 vans in less than four years. Dan is now the CEO of Fergus.
Missing in action
SMART BUSINESS
What is job abandonment and what to do about it? HR specialist Lisa Duston explains. WHEN AN EMPLOYEE is a no-show at work, and no one has been notified of their absence, have they abandoned their job? It’s important from both a legal and practical perspective to clarify the employee’s intentions, so you all know where you stand. ‘Abandonment’ occurs when an employee abandons the job— in other words, they walk away from the job with no intention of returning. It is good practice for all employment agreements to contain a clause on abandonment, stating that the employee’s employment may be terminated after a specific number of days of unauthorised absence (usually three to five days). In some situations, however, the employee’s intentions may not be clear. For example, if an employee storms out in dramatic fashion—clearing out their desk, throwing around a few expletives and slamming the door on the way out—it’s important to try and fully understand what they really intend by it. If the drama was work-related, they may not have meant to resign but just needed some time to cool off before meeting to discuss. What if your employee simply doesn’t turn up, and no one knows where they are? It’s been three days and you’ve heard nothing. As a fair and reasonable employer, you need to make every attempt to contact them by all means possible: calling, texting, emailing—even going to their last known address. Based on past experience, I would recommend giving it at least another three days before making the decision to dismiss. Sometimes there is a reasonable explanation. After this, if you are still unsuccessful in your attempts to contact the employee, it’s time to send them a letter stating you are considering ending their employment. This allows them a further couple of days to come back to you. If you have no response to this letter within three to five days, you can send another letter, advising the employee that, in accordance with your previous communications and their employment agreement, their employment is terminated by reason of abandonment.
If you are able to contact the employee and determine that they have good reason for their absence, it’s important to listen to their reasons, and to gather all the information (eg, medical certificates, accounts from family members) that you may need to work through a different process with the employee, depending on their reasons for not being at work. It is very important that you keep a record of all attempted contact and communication so that, if there should be a dispute in the future, you have it documented. Remember, if you’re going to end an employment relationship, you must always have a good reason and act fairly and reasonably. ■
About the author: Lisa Duston is HR Manager at Master Plumbers. Lisa offers HR advice to Master Plumbers’ members at competitive rates (first 30 minutes free). Contact Lisa on 021 245 1704 or email lduston@masterplumbers.org.nz
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August/September 2018 55
SMART BUSINESS
Down tools! It’s when you put down the tools that your business starts working… and you work less. By Daniel Fitzpatrick.
THE TRADIE WHO wins at business? It isn’t necessarily the one with the best reputation, or best workmanship. The most successful ones have mastered the art of being at the helm. If you’re spending too much time on the tools, you probably know being on site all the time is really holding you back. You may have discovered you can let go for a while, but soon end up back where you started. Getting off the tools (and staying off the tools) is not an easy leap to make. By ‘on the tools’ I mean either: • Working on the job alongside the team—getting the work done • Organising the work—making sure everything runs smoothly on site • Running around chasing jobs— getting enough work. Sure, this stuff has to get done by someone; otherwise, the business stops. But being on the tools too much yourself means you can’t get the important stuff done: • The things you do to find the real dollars • The things you do to grow and expand • The things you do to streamline your business, free up your time and get your life back. It’s a cycle every self-employed tradie gets caught in. Getting out takes effort.
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But when you do, everything gets better. Because you now have time to focus on the things that drive profit. So you can make the real money. The thing is, the captain of the ship can’t be below deck. They need to be up top, directing the ship. That’s the only real way to get where you want to be. And it also means you can see things coming— so you don’t run aground. If you can master this, you can have the lifestyle you wanted when you first went out on your own. More time to spend with family. More time for you. The time and money to go on holidays (without things turning to chaos in your absence). “Great, sounds awesome. But how do I take off the toolbelt?” The most important thing is to keep the standards and the quality of work that YOU have established. So step back slowly—and systematically—while getting your guys to take responsibility.
1. Record Write down every part of the job you want to stop doing. Step by step. Every detail, as if you are teaching someone your job and they are going to do it for the next three months on their own, without you.
2. Checklists Make checklists and staff policies for all of the most important parts that need ticking and signing off at each stage.
3. Train and delegate Hand each part to one of your team who is now responsible, or get a new team member if you need to. Someone capable of being in charge and being your eyes and ears. Make sure you train them well so it’s a smooth transition.
4. Check in Let them get on with it, without interruption. But follow up on their work. Check in with them regularly to make sure they are doing it right. This is key.
5. Move on Let go and work on your stuff. It’s really that simple. Not easy! But simple. Yes, you will have to work hard initially to set this up properly. Anything worthwhile takes commitment. But it’s worth it. The good news is, this strategy is proven and has worked for many others before you. It’s always quicker, easier and far less painful NOT to reinvent the wheel. ■
About the author: Daniel Fitzpatrick is a business coach for trades & construction business owners. If you like shortcuts that work (not the kind that get you in trouble) and you want to know how Daniel can help take your trades business to the next level, book a free chat at https://nextleveltradie.youcanbook.me Find Daniel at www.nextleveltradie.co.nz
Room to grow SO YOU HAVE products or services that resonate with the market, a track record of sales and good customer retention. Congratulations! You have a great small business—but what’s next? In even the most successful operations there’s always room to grow, so here are six tips to help increase your revenue (and not break the bank). 1. Focus on core customers. Before you go looking to broaden your customer base, take a closer look at how you might grow sales from existing clients. Who are your most profitable customers, and how can you entice them to spend more? Sometimes this can be as simple as offering easier options to make payments. Customer loyalty programmes can also encourage more repeat business, and incentivise greater spend. 2. Diversify. Are there additional products or services you could offer your target market? As an established business you have the advantage of an existing customer base to survey about potential areas for expansion. And expansion can take many forms. For example, can you diversify into teaching in your area of expertise, or offer your services as an expert columnist or speaker? Networking with other business
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owners can be a great way to open your eyes to new diversification opportunities. 3. Cut your losses. Hand in hand with any investigations into new products or services should be a good look at the profitability of existing offerings. Are there areas of the business that are much less profitable than others? If so, it may be better to scrap those lines in favour of focusing resources on more profitable income streams. 4. Digital expansion. One obvious route many businesses investigate when looking to grow is opening a physical presence in a new location. However, today’s business owners can also expand via an array of digital channels, which can require significantly less risk and capital outlay. CPA Australia’s 2016 Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey found 38 percent of New Zealand small businesses earned revenue from online sales, compared with a 69 percent average across all surveyed countries, showing there’s plenty of room for growth. 5. Know your limits. Just as important as knowing where growth opportunities lie is knowing your limits around exploring them. If you’re diversifying, it’s important not to push
How to turn your small business into a big one.
outside your area of expertise. And there’s little point developing new products or services if you don’t have the resources to adequately market them or provide the back-end functions—such as customer support—they may require. Ensuring you’re adequately insured is also key to safeguarding the business you’re working hard to grow. 6. Great people are key. Having the best people in your business (and in the right roles) is the central piece of the growth puzzle, and the one that links all other elements together. A business will never grow without the team rolling up their sleeves to make it happen. Treat your people well, make sure they’re clear on the vision you have for the company’s growth and the particular role they’ll play in making that happen. And when targets are reached, come together to discuss progress to date, any alterations to future plans that may be required and—most importantly— celebrate the team’s success. ■ About the author: Harry Ferreira is Head of Small Business at BNZ and is responsible for building, growing, and leading the small business banking teams. Harry also has accountability for innovation, market growth and customer experience of New Zealand’s small business sector.
SMART BUSINESS
Biz Brief Emergency planning Is your business prepared for an emergency? An emergency plan is a health and safety requirement, says business.govt.nz. You should have a good idea of risks you face at work, given your specific industry and location. It is especially important to plan for sudden events that may occur with little to no warning or time to prepare. Here are some emergencies you might
Short, sharp business updates.
need a plan for—some may be more of a threat to you than others. • Natural hazards: Earthquake, flood, tsunami, volcanic eruption or ash, landslide, tornado or high winds, extreme weather, fire. • Health emergencies: Workplace incidents, hazardous substance event (eg chemical spill), medical emergency, public health event (eg pandemics), violent people, animal attacks, epidemics. • Utility failures: Electricity outages, IT outages, water supply issues. There’s a guide to assessing risks at www.business.govt.nz/risks-andoperations/health-and-safety/how-toassess-health-and-safety-risks/ What you learn from this assessment can form the basis of your emergency plan, it says. It also suggests reading the booklets on the Resilient Organisations website at www.resorgs.org.nz
Business benchmarking The University of Waikato has conducted an annual NZ Business Benchmarking Survey for over 35 years. The financial business data is collected from accountants and screened to generate robust financial information, it says. “The statistics reported are widely recognised… as the accepted standard for benchmarking SMEs in New Zealand.” The Survey contains reports on 430 industries, including Plumbing Services and Drain Laying. They can help you or your accountant to see how your business is faring compared to others in your sector by providing a list of 35 key financial ratios, including income/ cost per person, liquidity, overheads and personnel numbers. You can purchase the survey’s reports in full ($1,800 plus GST) or by individual industry classifications ($160 plus GST). Visit www.nzbenchmarking.co.nz/reports for more info or to order reports.
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SMART BUSINESS
From the IR: accounting software Shifting your business to accounting software may be easier than you think, says Inland Revenue’s Richard Owen. WE OFTEN ENCOUNTER a few raised eyebrows when we enthusiastically promote accounting software to small businesses. It might appear a little out of place but we do it because we can see the transformative benefits software can offer small businesses and how easy it makes it for them to meet their tax obligations. It’s no coincidence that Inland Revenue’s transformation is heavily focused on making sure that our systems can work seamlessly with the accounting software that businesses everywhere are adopting. We are creating future services that are designed to simplify the ways a customer interacts with the tax system. Many of these initiatives will be further enhanced when accounting software is used, as the technology will link directly with our systems, which makes doing your accounts and paying your tax a smoother process. However, we understand some customers remain unsure about whether software can truly work for them. So we conducted a survey of customers who were already using the technology to see how they are finding it.
payday filing of all employment information such as PAYE, KiwiSaver and student loan deductions will be mandatory for most businesses from April 2019
The results are encouraging: 90% of accounting software users surveyed have found the transition to software easy and those who have made the switch are noticing it saves them time and money, with 81% saying they now spend less time managing their tax. So clearly, using software is easier than some people may think. Many businesses and their accountants currently manage their books across two systems—they might have a spreadsheet to record all their activity and then have to copy much of that information across to myIR in order to file their taxes. Software packages are now available that perform all the appropriate calculations and are linked directly to Inland Revenue. This has already happened with calculating and filing GST and now there’s a provisional tax option called AIM or the accounting income method,
which integrates into a business’s usual processes to reduce the chance of over- or under-paying provisional tax. Payment is only required when the company is making a profit. AIM is quite clearly a game changer for provisional tax but we don’t expect customers to rush to it straight away. People will look at what their peers are doing and how it’s working for them first—but we believe momentum will build up. Payday filing of all employment information such as PAYE, KiwiSaver and student loan deductions will be mandatory for most businesses from April 2019 so the equivalent of employer monthly schedules will need to be submitted when employees are paid. Software users will have the capability to file directly to IR, which removes that extra compliance step. In fact some businesses have already adopted payday filing, which has been optional from April this year. Those who haven’t should be considering how to make it part of their business practices before it becomes compulsory, and talk to their software or payroll providers about how they can help. We are working to integrate tax into everyday business practices to make compliance quicker and easier, and the technology helps us achieve this. When 90% of software users surveyed say the transition was easy and 81% are saying it saves them time, the case becomes compelling to make the switch and ease the pressure to meet your tax obligations. Find out more about how to adopt AIM for this financial year at www.ird.govt.nz/AIM ■ About the author: Richard Owen is a customer segment leader at Inland Revenue.
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SAFETY FIRST
Bullies be gone No one should be made to feel threatened, fearful or unsafe at work, says WorkSafe. BULLYING IS A significant issue in New Zealand workplaces. It can affect people physically and mentally, disrupt the workplace and lower work performance. WorkSafe defines workplace bullying as repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or group of workers that can lead to physical or psychological harm. Through its online bullying prevention toolkit, WorkSafe supports businesses and workers dealing with workplace bullying concerns Rather than being the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, it wants to help employers to create a positive workplace culture. Every workplace needs to minimise the likelihood of bullying and have processes in place to deal with it if it happens, it says. Everyone at work has a role in dealing with bullying.
Bullying prevention toolbox
The online bullying prevention toolbox includes WorkSafe’s updated Good Practice Guideline: Preventing and responding to bullying at work, plus other guidance for small businesses and workers. The toolbox also contains forms and templates, including: • formal complaint form • informal complaint form • workplace assessment form • anti-bullying policy template. 62
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Is it bullying?
Workplace bullying is: • Repeated behaviour that is persistent (occurs more than once) and can involve a range of actions over time. • Unreasonable behaviour such as victimising, humiliating, intimidating or threatening a person • Harassment, discrimination or violence. Workplace bullying is not: • One-off or occasional instances of forgetfulness, rudeness or tactlessness • Setting high performance standards • Constructive feedback and legitimate advice or peer review • A manager requiring reasonable verbal or written work instructions to be carried out • Warning or disciplining workers in line with the business or undertaking’s code of conduct • A single incident of unreasonable behaviour • Reasonable management actions delivered in a reasonable way • Differences in opinion or personality clashes that do not escalate into bullying, harassment or violence. Based on information in WorkSafe’s Preventing and Responding to Bullying at Work: Advice for Small Businesses.
Dealing with reports and complaints
General principles: • Take all allegations seriously • Act promptly o Set timelines and deal with reports/complaints as soon as you can after you receive them. • Clearly communicate the process o Tell everyone involved what the process is o Let the people involved know if there are delays to timelines. • Ensure non-victimisation o Protect the people involved from victimisation. • Support the people involved o Anyone involved can have a support person present at interviews or meetings (eg, health and safety rep, their union, colleague, friend) o Tell everyone involved what support is available to them (eg, do you have an employee assistance programme, health and safety reps?) • Maintain privacy (confidentiality) o Maintain privacy for all parties involved o Ensure details of the matter are only known to those directly concerned (except their representative or support person). • Be unbiased and fair o Treat the people involved fairly o Get someone unbiased and trained to look into the allegation o Make decisions on how to deal with the allegation based on the facts o Clearly tell the people involved what you are going to do (taking into account privacy). Extract from WorkSafe’s Preventing and Responding to Bullying at Work: Advice for Small Businesses.
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Find WorkSafe’s Bullying prevention toolbox at https://worksafe.govt.nz/the-toolshed/tools/bullyingprevention-toolbox/ WorkSafe has also created a bullying video as part of its Use Your Mouth campaign. View it at www.worksafe.govt. nz/about-us/campaigns/useyourmouth/bullying ■
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SAFETY FIRST
Toolbox tips Quick ’n snappy safety messages to share with the team.
NEW: manual handling Risk Reckoner
NEW: HASANZ Register
WorkSafe and ACC have developed a new digital tool to help you and your workers understand the risks of manual handling. Use the Risk Reckoner as part of your risk management process to measure handling risks and get recommendations on how to make them safer. Check out the Risk Reckoner at www.riskreckoner.acc.co.nz
Need to find a professional to provide solutions for your health and safety issues— whether it’s asbestos disposal, noise monitoring or H&S systems and policies? Find the right person for the job at the new HASANZ Register of workplace health and safety professionals. It’s a onestop shop for businesses looking for reliable, quality health and safety professional advice and services. And it’s free to use. Go to the HASZANZ Register at https://register.hasanz.org.nz
Fatigue kills
Calling all health and safety champions!
A tractor driver helping with harvesting operations died in October 2016 when he crashed the tractor on the way home after a 16.75 hour working day. WorkSafe’s subsequent investigation found he had worked nearly 200 hours in the fortnight leading up to his death, and fatigue was identified as the most likely cause of the accident. Michael Vining Contracting Ltd was charged earlier this year and ordered to pay reparation of $80,000 plus a $10,000 fine. This is the first sentencing for fatigue-related failings since the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. The company had a health and safety document prepared for them in January 2016, which identified fatigue as a high-rating hazard and outlined management steps including monitoring work hours and break times—but it had not been reviewed or implemented. “Getting the job done is important, but not if the hours required to do it put workers at risk of injury or death,” said Simon Humphries, WorkSafe Deputy General Manager, Investigations and Specialist Services. “The life, health and wellbeing of your workers must be your number one priority.”
There’s still time to enter the Site Safe Construction Health and Safety Awards. If you or your team have shown leadership, innovation or particular commitment to health and safety, make sure you enter in one of the four categories. Entry is free and open until 1 September to both Site Safe member and nonmember companies. The awards will be presented in Auckland on 7 November. Go to https://goo.gl/FFpAgU to apply
Hazardous substance training a MUST New hazardous substances training requirements came into effect in June. Businesses must now ensure every worker who uses, handles, makes or stores a hazardous substance receives appropriate training, instruction and information. They must also be aware of procedures and practices for the safe handling of those substances. NB: Businesses must now also keep a readily available record of the training and instruction provided. Check out WorkSafe’s quick guide to training requirements at www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/hazardous-substances/ managing
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New H&S training for business leaders Site Safe have launched a new two-hour Safety Excellence for Leaders workshop to help small- to medium-business owners and leaders understand their health and safety duties. Key topics include: • Compliance—understand it and move beyond it • Culture—evaluate and lead the change • Get involved—how to communicate confidently and be a positive influence • Find key areas of improvement—form an action plan. For more info and to book, go to www.sitesafe.org.nz/training/ourtraining-courses/safety-excellence-for-leaders
Kiwis top for skin cancer rates A new study shows NZ has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. The 2018 Skin Cancer Index says we have nearly 2500 new cases of melanoma over year. There’s some good info about being sun smart and how to check for skin cancer at www.sunsmart.org.nz. Consumer NZ warns that sunscreens can be sold in NZ without being tested because the suncreen standard is voluntary here—so make sure the sunscreen you use does the job properly. They tested 20 last year and the results can be found at www.consumer.org.nz/articles/sunscreens ■
GIVE YOUR PLUMBING BUSINESS THE COMPETITIVE EDGE Become a Master Plumber Get training, business resources and savings for your plumbing, gasfitting or drainlaying company. We have supported and protected the industry for 100 years, advocating for excellence and helping you provide customers with quality assurance.
masterplumbers.org.nz
NEXT GENERATION
Hot competition!
Plumbing World reports on its Young Plumber of the Year competition— now in its second year and attracting growing numbers of competitors. PLUMBING WORLD’S Young Plumber of the Year (YPOTY) showcases and rewards the best in the industry. It recognises excellence in our trades, celebrates industry training as well as the support of amazing employers and suppliers for investing in young tradespeople and apprentices and giving back to the industry. This flagship event is extremely well-regarded in the industry, with winners put on the short-track to long-term success. There are great prizes up for grabs, personal development opportunities and, for those who make it to nationals, a whole lot more.
Above, from left: Justin Britz of Affordable Plumbing Solutions with Silverdale branch winner Jordan Soons of Fixed Price and North Shore branch winner Hayden Findlay of Eco Plumbing and Gas.
Above: Wellington branch winner Curtis Hawkins of EG Glennie & Co, with branch manager Grant Dunn.
Designed to instil some pride and camaraderie in the trade, the competition provides a level of engagement beyond the normal ‘day-to-day’—bringing the industry together and highlighting the career opportunities on offer. Plumbing World’s suppliers have enjoyed the opportunity to meet and recognise new talent, promote high standards and engender some pride in the trade. And competitors have had a really fun time with the theory and practical tests, learning and networking during the process. The 2018 competition has seen over 450 registered competitors put their hand up and show the industry they are keen. In only its second year of competition, this is a 60%
Branch winners
Congratulations to all branch winners: Invercargill Gisborne Hornby Te Awamutu Hastings Porirua Whangarei Greymouth Kerikeri Wellington Timaru Oamaru Dunedin New Lynn Rangiora Napier
Adam De Pass Alex Hyland* Andrew Bright Ben Coutts Ben Stanley Ben Walters Blake Patrick Cameron Smith Chris Montoya Curtis Hawkins Daniel Johnson Daniel Warren Donovan Isted Dylan Plowright Glen Garthwaite Greg Tuohy
Henderson North Shore Grey Lynn Mt Wellington Palmerston North Te Rapa New Plymouth Silverdale Pukekohe Takanini Lower Hutt Levin Hamilton Wanaka Christchurch Masterton
Hamish Jeffries Hayden Findlay* Henry Minogue Hunter Turner* Jackson Ruakere Jacob Smith Jamie Rothwell Jordan Soons Josh Tilyard Joshua Snell Kane Berry* Liam Dewar Logan Dinsmuir Matt Car Matthew Lane Nathan Oakley
* Six out of eight Regional winners had been selected as NZ Plumber went to print—including wildcards Liam Pascoe and Jason Gamble. Congrats to you all! 66
August/September 2018
Papanui Ashburton Nelson Paraparaumu Tauranga Rotorua Blenheim Queenstown Taupo Thames Mt Maunganui Kaitaia Whakatane Manukau
Neil Silverman Ollie McKain Richard Naughton Rory McGrath Sam Cole Sam Baker Sam Rodger Scott Balchin Shayne Bates Timothy Clarke Trent Boyle Valentino Eyer Zak Hickford Mohammed Shameer
EARN POINTS, REDEEM FOR GREAT REWARDS Above: Masterton branch winner Nathan Oakley from Water-Mart Wairarapa with Masterton branch manager Tony Lyford.
Above: Hamilton branch winner Logan Dunsmuir of Hamilton Plumbing Company with branch manager Kym Scantlebury.
increase on 2017. During July and August, 80 competitors have come together across eight regional finals to find the 10 national finalists. Plumbing World is proud to lead the charge and recognise excellence among the plumbing trades. We need to nurture talent to ensure a better plumbed New Zealand and the Young Plumber of The Year is the place to solidify all of this into a strong foundation for the future. Plumbing World also hopes the competition will help to establish a presence with school leavers, so they see the plumbing trades as the desirable career vocation we all know it to be. The National Final will be held on Wednesday 10 October at WINTEC, Hamilton. â&#x2013;
Do you own your own drainlaying, plumbing or gas fitting business? Buy selected products by any of these leading brands and earn points for great rewards.
Visit www.ypc.co.nz and follow Young Plumber of the Year on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/YPCNZ/ Plumbing World thanks its family of sponsors: Allproof, Apex Valves, Bosch, Dux, Caroma, Felton, Hydroflow, MM Kembla, Marley, Masterlink, Master Plumbers, Methven, Milwaukee, Metrix, Rinnai, RMC Water Valves, ToolWare and Rheem, plus its many supporters.
Sign up for FREE at www.theplumbersclub.co.nz
NEXT GENERATION
Outward bound Apprentices put Outward Bound through its paces, as The Skills Organisation reports. WHAT WERE FIVE apprentices doing trekking around the Marlborough Sounds in June? They were the lucky winners of a two-week Outward Bound BETA course in Anakiwa. This intensive programme pushed them to their limits; teaching them more about themselves and their leadership style in 14 days than anything theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d ever done before. The Outward Bound BETA course is specially designed for apprentices. Apprentices who complete the course come out feeling more confident, work more diligently, and develop
improved problem solving skills. This is why Skills supports the programme and gives this opportunity to apprentices like yours. From leaders in the making to those needing a boost in confidence, Outward Bound challenges them all and brings out the best they have to offer. Everyone who attends faces different personal challenges and no two people have the same experience. When you arrive on site your devices are taken away and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re kept in the dark about schedules. This lets you live in the moment and embrace
Above top: Plumbing apprentice Benjamin Stevens-Howie. Above left: Plumbing apprentice Luke Nilsson. Above right: Drainlaying apprentice Christopher Wiremu. 68
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NEXT GENERATION
Outward Bound is challenging, exhilarating and without a doubt life changing the adventure you’re on. From rock climbing to kayaking you’re expected to give everything ago, regardless of if you think you can do it or not. Outward Bound is challenging, exhilarating and without a doubt life changing. This year Skills put five scholarships up for grabs amongst plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying apprentices. Apprentices from up and down the country applied but only a few were made winners. These lucky winners got to dive in boots and all to experience the best of what Outward Bound had to offer. From managing their group while kayaking white waters and navigating their team through unmarked terrain, through to skippering a 30ft sailing cutter across the Marlborough Sounds they got to do it all plus a whole lot more. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime and if you have an apprentice you think is worthy, then make sure they apply when Skills makes next year’s scholarships available. ■
Above: Plumbing apprentice James Rattray.
“Masterlink believes the Outward Bound courses are invaluable for young people to develop confidence in their abilities and decision-making skills. We’ve noticed that apprentices return from the courses with really positive feedback and a really positive attitude. We see significant improvements in their confidence levels and self-awareness which adds a huge amount of value to the plumbing companies hosting them.” Kate Jenkins, Masterlink Operations Manager
LOOK AT YOUR HANDS The scars, wrinkles and cracked skin tells your story. Your hands have helped you become a master of your trade. Help an apprentice do the same, and give their hands the chance to tell their story.
Take on an apprentice today 0508 SKILLS | skills.org.nz
NEXT GENERATION
To the limit BETA Bound scholarship winner Harrison West pushed well beyond his comfort zone on the custom-designed course for apprentices. By Gena Tuffrey. MASTERLINK PLUMBING APPRENTICE Harrison West didn’t know he wanted to go to Outward Bound until he was presented with the opportunity—at which point he knew for sure. “As soon as I got the email from Skills saying, ‘Hey, we’re offering scholarships for a course with Outward Bound’, I got really excited,” Harrison says. “I was like, ‘Ooh, that sounds interesting!’” His higher-ups at Auckland’s Quix Commercial thought it sounded pretty interesting too—as did his family. “My bosses thought it’d be the biggest and best learning experience… and it was,” Harrison says. “And my father said, ‘You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world when you get back’… and I am!” The course was modified to develop leadership abilities in the 24 BETA Bound participants, who were all apprentices in their
early-to-mid 20s. “There were people from all trades there,” says Harrison. “Plasterers, sparkies, carpenters, and five of us plumbers. Basically, we would’ve been sweet if we’d had to build a house in the forest!” Although he admits to being out of his comfort zone to start with, Harrison says he adapted quickly. “When you’ve just finished a big hike, then get told, ‘Okay, you’re going on a 10km run now’, at first you’re like ‘I can’t do that!’ But your body does do it, so you start thinking, ‘I can actually do anything’—which is the whole point.”
Ties and teamwork
Split into two groups of 12 to complete various leg-busting tasks, the apprentices developed their teamwork as much as their quads. Harrison recalls an ‘average’ day, when, having hiked for seven hours and with dark descending, his group realised they were going down the wrong part of the mountain. “There were lots of times like that when you have to work together to make a quick decision,” he says. “The guides hint at what you might want to think about, but the ultimate call is up to you.” The camaraderie that tends to grow out of such intense situations was particularly strong at BETA Bound. “Some of these people are my best friends now,” Harrison says. “It’s kind of like on a worksite. You’ve got to work together 100% to get the job done. On the hikes people got tired and moaned a bit, but others would jump in and motivate them so you can all finish.”
I reckon everyone should have to do something like this A positive vibe
Above: Harrison West says he has come back to work with a whole new outlook. 70
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And when the hard work was done for the day, there was further competition to be had in a bit of good old campfire banter. “The plumbers could all spin a good yarn,” Harrison says. “We’re good at that!” The other thing they’re good at, he reckons, is making each other laugh. “The thing I swear by now is starting the day with a joke,” Harrison says. “At the camp everyone had to tell a joke in the morning—it really lightened the mood for the day. I brought that back to work.” Ah, yes, back to work. How does he feel about that? “I was so pumped and ready—I was like, ‘Let’s do this!’,” Harrison says. “I’ve got more enthusiasm for everything now. I want to change the industry, by bringing a more positive vibe to working sites. You can make a situation however you want it to be, I know that now.” Having got so much out of the experience, Harrison has some advice for other young Kiwis. “I reckon everyone should have to do something like this that really pushes you to your limits. Once you turn 18 you’re off and you’re out there!” ■
NEXT GENERATION
Mac McKenzie Awards Congratulations to this year’s deserving winners of the Mac McKenzie Award. MASTER PLUMBERS NATIONAL President Rod Miller was in Queenstown in July to present the 2018 Mac McKenzie
Above: Southland recipient Andy Spence.
Award winners with their certificates at the Southland Association AGM. This regional Master Plumbers award was established in 1975 after much-loved Dunedin head plumbing tutor Mervyn ‘Mac’ McKenzie died tragically young in a hang-gliding accident. Each year, top achieving SIT apprentices in both Otago and Southland are recognised, with one overall winner selected. The 2018 recipients were Andy Spence of Bob Dennison Plumbing Ltd in Arrowtown and Peter Brown of McLellans Plumbing and Heating
Above: Otago recipient and overall winner Peter Brown.
in Alexandra. Peter was chosen as the overall winner—bringing the award nicely full circle as he is the son-in-law of Rory McLellan, who won the award himself in 1988.
Health & safety scholarships
Applications for this year’s Site Safe scholarships close soon—so be in quick! Each year, Site Safe offers scholarships to help future health and safety leaders jumpstart their careers. A scholarship includes: • free training from any Site Safe courses you can use to work towards a tertiary qualification • dedicated mentor to provide full support in completing training and assignments • complimentary ticket to Site Safe’s
annual awards and graduation evening in Auckland (with free return flights and accommodation for those based outside Auckland). Applications are available to Site Safe member and non-member companies. There are five categories: under 25, open, Maori, Pasifika and women working in construction. Entries close 1 September. Apply now at www.sitesafe.org.nz/ training/scholarships/
Above: Some of Site Safe’s previous scholarship recipients celebrating their graduation.
Online learning Changes to the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying apprenticeship programmes. ONE OF THE common themes The Skills Organisation hear from industry is that not enough teaching is done during block courses and that too much time is spent on assessment. Skills say they’ve taken this on board and looked at different ways to improve the apprenticeship journey. As a result, they’ve developed programmes that incorporate more learning into block courses by introducing an online, athome component.
New apprentices entering the following combined courses will now have most of their theory assessments done online, rather than taking up time during block courses: • Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying • Plumbing and Drainlaying • Gasfitting. This means apprentices will need to have access to a computer and the internet to complete their theory
assessments. Assessments can be accessed via the online My Skills portal, where apprentices currently have access to their learning material. This new model is intended to give apprentices a greater learning experience as there will be more time for teaching and interaction with their block course tutors. If you have any questions, please contact 0508 SKILLS (754 557). August/September 2018 71
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• Base tray heating element • Controller, HE pump & valves supplied as standard
MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD
Meet Brendan Parker
Introducing our new Masterlink Regional Manager for the Lower South Island. Brendan Parker started with Masterlink on 27 August. Based in Invercargill, Brendan will initially be looking after Southland and Otago hosts and apprentices with the support of South Island Masterlink Manager Roger Herd. “I’m going to become a familiar face around the region as I join the Masterlink and Master Plumbers Above: Brendan Parker. family,” he says. “I am a Southern Man
born and bred and am excited to join this industry at a crucial stage where growth and demand for all trades are at a premium. I look forward to providing the quality support that Masterlink represents.” Brendan comes from a strong sales and management background. A huge sports fan, he says these days coaching is becoming more his style, with his kids getting more involved. Contact Brendan with your apprentice training needs: brendan.parker@masterlink.co.nz
Travelling tradies
Masterlink was part of Plumbing World’s recent schools tour, promoting plumbing as a great career. Plumbing World Young Plumbers Club ambassadors Logan Dodds and Jesse James took to the road in August on the TradeUp Tour to tell high-school students how signing up to an apprenticeship can lead to a career that earns good money and provides a great lifestyle. Over the space of three weeks, Logan and Jesse shared their message at 10 high schools around New Zealand. With loads of social media activity, it was a fun and interactive event that got pupils thinking beyond the traditional university route. The Masterlink team was part of the event, with the local Regional Manager and an apprentice on hand at the schools to chat with students and answer questions about the benefits of doing an apprenticeship through Masterlink. “To say this next adventure is the proudest moment of my life would be an understatement,” said Jesse on Facebook. “At 15 I was asked to leave school. My dream was to become a professional athlete, my dad gave me the most important piece of advice I ever got. Get a trade, have something to fall back on then follow your dreams. That’s exactly what I did. “This opportunity to give back is something we are both so incredibly proud of. We can’t thank Plumbing World enough for making all of this happen.”
Above: Logan Dodds (right) and Jesse James.
August/September 2018 73
MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD
Aiming high Congratulations to… •
•
Sam Jenkin of McIvor Plumbers and Gas Fitters in Wanaka and Alan Wharton of Flints Plumbing & Drainage in Queenstown for receiving Masterlink award certificates at the Southland Association AGM in July. The certificates recognise outstanding performance in a Masterlink apprentice. “Sam came to an apprenticeship straight from school, which is quite an adjustment, but he’s really taken off,” says Masterlink South Island Manager Roger Above: Master Plumbers Herd, who judged the awards in CEO Greg Wallace presenting collaboration with SIT tutors. Masterlink apprentices Sam Jenkin (top left) and “Alan was a crew member Alan Wharton with their on Queenstown’s TSS Earnslaw certificates. before he started his Masterlink apprenticeship, and he flew from day one.” Cameron Jaques of Greg Jaques Plumbing in Hawke’s Bay, for receiving the Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ award for the Top Student in the EIT Certificate in Plumbing and Gasfitting 2017. This has been a great year for Cameron, who was part of the crew winning gold in the novice boys eight at the NZ Above: Cameron Rowing Championships in February.
Power tool safety
Power tool safety was the focus of our most recent quarterly appraisals. Masterlink apprentices benefit from the mentoring support of a Masterlink Regional Manager. Quarterly appraisals are held at the apprentice’s workplace and provide a chance for the mentor to check in on their theory studies and make sure they’re on track to complete their qualifications on time. There’s a particular focus at each appraisal, the most recent being power tool safety. Our top power tool safety tips: • • • • • •
If your drill has a second screw-on handle, use it when drilling larger holes Power saws, grinders and similar tools must have proper guards in place at all times Keep hands away from moving parts Ensure saws have the right blade fitted, in the right way Always keep power tools in good condition Any concerns? Report them to your supervisor straight away.
At the speed meets Throughout September, Masterlink will be represented at eight North Island high school SpeedMeets as part of this year’s Got a Trade? Got it Made! campaign. The SpeedMeets give us a chance to chat direct with students interested in pursuing a plumbing career. Find out more at www.gotatrade.co.nz/events
Jaques at the NZ Rowing Championships.
Apprentice health monitoring How Masterlink’s health monitoring programme works. Health monitoring is an important part of ensuring the health of your workers under the Health and Safety at Work Act. Monitoring is a way of checking if someone’s health is being harmed by the work they do, and involves testing them to identify any changes in their health status due to exposure to certain workplace health hazards, such as noise or dusts, fumes and vapours. Masterlink started a health monitoring programme at the start of the year. Our apprentices are contacted by a representative from Life Care Consultants halfway through
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and towards the end of their apprenticeship to arrange an appointment for hearing, lung, vision and range of motion tests, and to ensure their health is not being compromised by the work they do. We cover the cost of two health checks during the apprentice’s time with us. We encourage all hosts to monitor the health of their workers. Life Care Consultants are working on a special health monitoring package deal for Master Plumbers members. We will provide more details as they come to hand.
Come to us artfor quality
arning! • art• living!
Masterlink handles all your apprentice needs. Recruitment & testing
Mentoring and appraisals
• • • •Too easy!
Apprentice PAYE and HR
esses in Oamaru are Block course g for plumbing and arrangements gasfitting Health & safety management ntices right now.
Starter toolkit & PPE sterlink apprentice, we pay you while n for a great career. Get qualified and up for life! ourpractical team today ve good Contact hands-on, skills y real job0800 variety, send your CV and 502 102 tter to roger.herd@masterlink.co.nz admin@masterlink.co.nz www.masterlink.co.nz Link.co.nz
SUPPLY LINES
Management on the move A mobile workforce requires mobile technology. Teletrac Navman, a leading GPS tracking company and Master Plumbers Platinum Partner, gives insight into what’s on offer. IN TRADES AND infrastructure, a lot of the work is done outside the office. Staff may visit multiple clients a day and are working across multiple job sites. Adopting the right technology can help manage staff, fleets and vital information. Small businesses generate 28 percent of New Zealand’s GDP and employ over 600,000 people, according to government reports. And leaders in using mobile technology are pulling ahead of the competition. The 25 percent of SMEs that use mobile services more intensively tend to grow revenue up to two times faster than their competition, according to report findings by global management consulting firm BCG.
the 25 percent of SMEs that use mobile services more intensively tend to grow revenue up to two times faster than their competition Teletrac Navman GPS tracking technology gives you detailed information on your fleet and staff movements. Combining this technology with custom-designed tablets and devices gives mobile workers a digital tool to efficiently record and complete tasks wherever they are.
Make it mobile
With over 100,000 tracking units installed across New Zealand and Australia, Teletrac Navman knows what drives business owners. Its GPS fleet 76
August/September 2018
management software, DIRECTOR, is built with a powerful mapping solution, comprehensive messaging capabilities and workflow forms, user alerts, vehicle maintenance tracking, and driver behaviour analysis. It can be accessed wherever you are—on your computer, tablet or smartphone. Invoicing and timesheets: Combining GPS tracking with mobile devices helps you to quickly and accurately populate job invoices and staff timesheets. Telematics data from each vehicle includes mileage and timings for each site visit. Using an electronic form on a mobile device, staff can add any details such as parts used and send straight away to the back office to process. Job management: DIRECTOR’s instant visibility map feature allows managers to view all drivers and vehicles in real-time to pinpoint exact locations and dispatch the closest available plumber to the job. Accurately answer customer enquiries based on location within seconds, and inform customers in advance if there is a delay. Safety and compliance: A safe fleet is a cost-efficient fleet. Speeding fines, vehicle wear and tear or even damage, excessive fuel use… it all adds up. Get insight into driver behaviour through metrics like speed, harsh braking and acceleration and use it to build and enforce safe driving policy. Set up alerts on in-cab devices to warn drivers immediately when they breach a set speed limit. Fleet management: Use the software to track, record and set alerts for important details on your fleet such as vehicle registrations, WOFs, RUC licences, and maintenance schedules. Keep vehicles in tip-top shape by setting alerts to service vehicles based on kms travelled. Reviewing the vehicle history
Above: Teletrac Navman’s RUC Manager automates and streamlines RUC licencing and the off-road rebate process.
gives insight into the fleet, such as which vehicles are costing the most in repairs.
Streamline all areas
Around New Zealand, many plumbing firms are already using Teletrac Navman to discover new ways to automate routine tasks, reduce paperwork and timesheet reporting, ease routing and improve their customer service. ■ Is it time your business joined them?
Job management software integration
Teletrac Navman integrates with SmartTrade job management software, giving you better visibility into job progress. Combining the two will reduce paperwork and streamline your processes for job costing, quoting, scheduling, timesheets and invoicing— saving your business time and money.
RUC management
RUC Manager is Teletrac Navman’s newest electronic solution to automate and streamline Road User Charges licencing and the off-road rebate process. For fleets with diesel utes, vans and cars, RUC Manager saves time spent on constantly managing RUC licences, and tracking and calculating off-road rebates. The system maximises rebates, ensures vehicles are never caught with an expired licence, and steadies the business cashflow by purchasing licences in optimal amounts.
Platinum Partner
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Retention audits
Lightweight trench shoring
Debtorinfo has added a new product to its online subscription service.
Trenchmate are the proud NZ suppliers of a new lightweight trench shoring shield.
The way builders account for retentions changed on 31 March 2017. The law was changed to protect subcontractors’ funds from other creditors. A subcontractor’s money cannot now be touched by a company receiver. Builders are required by law to hold your retention funds in trust—but not in a trust account. Proper methods of accounting for retention money are now required, and the records must be available to the parties owed the money, and be auditable. The question asked repeatedly at our seminars is: How do plumber subcontractors request an inspection of their retention money in the builder’s accounts without alienating their builder client? The answer is that it would be difficult on your own, but easier using a third party. Coming to the Debtorinfo website is another service from our new company ‘Retention Audits Ltd’, which will act as a third party to approach the builder. It would most likely only be used if your relationship with the builder had broken down, or if there were circumstances where you believe an inspection of the books would set your mind at rest. There is no extra charge for our subscribers to access this service. For more information about Debtorinfo and the new retention audits service, contact George Owen on 0800 734 335; georgeowen@debtorinfo.co.nz
Utility detection A new solution for utility and excavation professionals. Leica Geosystems has launched the Leica DD SMART utility locator series, signal transmitters and DX Shield software. The Leica DD SMART utility locator series uses industry-leading digital signal processing to automatically detect utilities and underground assets deeper, faster and more accurately. It allows users to collect, transfer and access data remotely to a hosted service for multiple users, across multiple sites. Locators are scalable and designed with the latest Bluetooth technology, providing a wirefree connection to field controllers and mobile phones. New technology from DX Shield software records information to manage site activities and map buried utilities. It allows users to gain a better understanding of task performance and site complexities with easy-to-use reports, activity visualisation, and locator fleet overview. A cloud-hosted platform transfers data directly to the field to provide a fast and convenient view of the product use, reducing utility strikes and saving direct repair costs and project downtime. The products were released in NZ this August. Contact distribution partner Global Survey for more information, to order units and organise a demo. www.globalsurvey.co.nz
The inflatable trench shoring shield weighs in at 45-55kg, depending on what size struts are attached to shield panels. This is perfect for tight utility work, or in a work area that isn’t accessible to a large excavator carrying a normal 1-1.5 tonne trench shield. The shield is very easy to assemble. Simply unroll the rubber panels, slide the four struts into the strut pockets, attach the supplied airline to the compressor and start inflating. Each rubber panel has a pressure relief valve— when the panel reaches the correct pressure, the relief valve kicks off and the compressor can be switched off. Trenchmate offers long term lease rates for companies needing an inflatable shield on site, or with their company work vehicle. For when emergency work comes up, they have a shield on site ready to go. They also have daily rates available for quick in and out jobs. Trenchmate can deliver to site by overnight freight nationwide, or via one of their Above: The inflatable shield in action three sales reps. and the deflated panel. Popular jobs for which the inflatable trench shield has been used: • • • •
Fibre optic cable installation/repairs House basement waterproofing in Christchurch (liquefaction) Hydro excavation behind houses Power cable installation/repairs.
“The blow-up shield is so light and easy to transport; we found this to be really great for small, deep emergency work,” says the crew at Aquaholics in the Bay of Plenty/Waikato. “This shield is great to have on hand for tough connections that needed to be shielded over 1.5m, in a tight space.” More details at www.trenchmate.co.nz
August/September 2018 77
RainBoost
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SHOWER INNOVATION ™
RainBoost shower technology is specifically designed and developed for varying water pressure conditions. Engineered to maximise shower flow and coverage out of low pressure water systems from 10kPa. For a shower as perfect as a good night’s sleep, try the new RainBoost™ shower by Greens for a world of difference in your daily showering experience. www.greenstapware.com
ALWAYS THERE TO CARRY YOU THROUGH.
FINANCIAL SERVICES
3.9 FINANCE ACROSS % P.A
THE HILUX RANGE
Smart software for growing trade businesses Cloud-based job management software for plumbers
START YOUR FREE TRIAL
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Finance offer is on any new Toyota Hilux purchased from participating Authorised Toyota Stores in New Zealand between September 2018 and 31 December 2018, on a ‘Classic Finance Loan’ through Toyota Financial Services with a minimum of 10% deposit for terms up to 36 months. Offer is subject to Toyota Financial Services normal lending criteria. An establishment fee of up to $400 and a $9.20 PPSR fee is payable. Offer is subject to availability. The advertised TDP is for the vehicle only, ORC and GST included. The advertised TDPs are subject to change at any time. For full terms and conditions visit our website, www.toyota.co.nz
MAYER STAINLESS STEEL PIPE SYSTEMS ARE THE FIRST CHOICE IN METALLICS FOR THEIR FLEXIBILITY, DURABILITY, EASE OF INSTALLATION AND LONGEVITY. Contact info@mayerstainless.co.nz or 09 570 7204
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August/September 2018
AND FINALLY
Offcuts
Media snippets of the plumbing kind. A tonne of bull
Napier residents have an impressive new landmark. Te Aroha artist Adrian Worsley was commissioned by local business Taylor Corporation to make a giant bull to stand outside its headquarters, reports Stuff ’s Business Day. It took Adrian, a former fitter/welder and sheet metal worker, 18 months to plan and construct the 2.8m tall, 1.9 tonne bull from scrap metal and car parts, according to the article. Bath tubs and gas bottles are all part of the mighty beast, which went on tour round the Waikato and Auckland before being installed at its new home on the Queen’s Birthday weekend.
Annual Earnslaw health check
Plumbers were among the maintenance crew coming from all around the country to give TSS Earnslaw its annual health check, reported the Otago Daily Times in June. More than 20 contractors and engineers spent five weeks surveying the 105-year old steamship, according to the article. Apparently, the 400-tonne ship is winched out of Lake Wakatipu onto a slipway using the old steam boiler and engine from the original Paddle Steamer Antrim. The ship was kitted out with new generators and tanks to hold its wastewater and pumping systems. The boiler was also revamped and serviced.
Clooney collides with plumber
Actor George Clooney escaped with minor leg injuries after being hit by a car while riding his moped to the set of his new series in Sardinia, reported The New Zealand Herald in July. The driver, a plumber, said he had been ‘blinded by the sun’, according to the newspaper report. Clooney apparently flew through the air and hit a car windscreen head first before being thrown to the ground.
Tackling fatbergs
simPRO has teamed with a hospitality facilities management specialist to provide an automatic solution for tackling fatberg-producing Fat, Oil and Grease (FOG) in sewer pipes. FOGCheck, as it’s called, uses a new biotreatment to remove and prevent build-up and blockages and hardware to remotely monitor the dosage system. It’s the only proven self-managing solution on the market and doesn’t rely on a site/facility manager to ensure ongoing compliance, says simPRO.
Plumbing the perfect life for Bay City Roller
Alan Longmuir, a founding member of Scottish pop group the Bay City Rollers, died in July at the age of 70. According to his obituary in The Dominion Post, the band enjoyed a run of nine Top 10 singles in the British charts from 1974 to 1976, and generated hysteria among their fans, known as the Tartan Horde. Alan and his brother Derek founded the group in the 1960s when he was a teenage apprentice plumber and Alan apparently claimed in 1997 that he would have chosen the life of a plumber if he’d had his time over again.
August/September 2018 79
EXCLUSIVE
NZ PLUMBER NOW AVAILABLE DIGITALLY
TO MASTER PLUMBER MEMBERS! CONTENTS
24
JUNE/JULY 2018
ON THE COVER HOW BINDING IS A QUOTE? AND CAN IT BE WITHDRAWN?—See p62
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTS Your rights and obligations
12
60
45
Inside this issue
2017 t MPA Finalis
62
30
DODGY PRODUCT
HOW ORGANISED ARE YOU? Work smart tips
15
NEW!
Better policing needed
TECHNICAL THEME
TOMORROW’S GASFITTERS Learning support
20
HOT WATER
Water chemistry, home heating and more
70 Cover photograph: A new consumer campaign from MBIE.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
WHAT’S ON 7
Check out our industry calendar
MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8
CEO Greg Wallace on apprentice training; new Comms & Marketing Advisor; product advocacy and Best in Brand prize
50 Staying strong Outstanding Services to Industry Award winner Dave Strong
TECHNICAL THEME: HOT WATER TECHNOLOGY 21
IN FOCUS 12
15
Policing products Why better controls are needed around imported product
24 Warm water—warm home Combining household hot water with the central heating system
Customer contracts A new campaign reminds contractors of their obligations
26 Legionella control Legionella in potable water systems
REAL LIVES 18
Driven to succeed Plumber Jacob Smith sets himself a high bar
42 Walking into retirement Why this 76-year-old ex-tutor is tramping the length of New Zealand
4
Water pH impact Why water pH matters when choosing hot water products
August/September 2017
29 HPWH technology How they work plus installation tips
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 30 Preservation plumbing Heritage house plumbing work
NUTS & BOLTS 35
Taken in isolation Benefits of isolation valves
36 Backflow basics What plumbers need to know about backflow prevention 39 Device types Unsure which type of backflow device to use? 40 Tech points Technical updates in brief
INDUSTRY TALK 44 Asbestos removal training Training requirements for an asbestos removal licence 45 Heating up Emirates Team New Zealand Rinnai’s hot water solution for the Bermuda crew 45 Watercare changes in Auckland Changes to compliance statements and connections 46 Sam’s speak What’s the answer to the plumber shortage?
48 Steel mesh charges Charges filed against three producers 48 Cylinder restraint study Could be time for a new approach 49 Homestar rating tool updated Homestar v4 makes the assessment process easier
HEALTH MATTERS 52
P aware The risks of working in meth houses
SUSTAINABLE FUTURES
58 KiwiSaver—10 years on It’s a no-brainer for young working people to join, says the IR 59 Contract Works cover When your subcontract agreement includes Contract Works excess 60 How organised are you? Top tips to working smarter—plus two case studies
NEXT GENERATION 70 Tomorrow’s gasfitters How Rinnai is supporting gasfitting apprentices 73
Taking on the world Young Kiwi plumber prepares for Worldskills Internationals
77
Apprenticeship designed by you A new website from Skills to have your say
62 Quote, unquote How binding is a quote?
54 Water recharge Two new managed aquifer recharge projects
64 Pricing & payments Tips on optimising efficiency and profitability
SMART BUSINESS
INNOVATION
56 We’re watching you Legal boundaries of electronic staff surveillance
66 Drain brain Odour eating floor waste product
57
67 Urgency needed on skill shortages BNZ on why business and government need to work together
Process for change What to know when altering an employee’s agreement
WORLD VIEW 69 Hospital on hold Lead contamination in water at new Perth Children’s Hospital
SUPPLY LINES
PRODUCTS & SERVICES 79 What’s new in the marketplace
AND FINALLY 81
Offcuts Bits and pieces of the unusual kind
82 Dodgy plumbing The best of the worst August/September 2017
5
MASTER PLUMBER OF THE YEAR What makes a winning business
APRIL/MAY 2018
READ ALL ABOUT IT
PEDAL TO THE METAL
Addressing lead in plumbing fittings
NZ Plumbing Conference highlights
2017 MPA Finalist
CAMP GLENORCHY
Major sustainable plumbing project BEST OF THE BEST
National award winners
PODS & PREFABS
Implications for plumbers
THE HEAT IS ON
Heating technical theme
Available via www.pocketmags.com
Just download the Pocketmags app on your mobile device and log-in to start reading!
www.masterplumbers.org.nz
AND FINALLY
DODGY Plumbing
Keep them coming! Send your Dodgy Plumbing examples to the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz
Don’t ya just love those DIYers?
Kiwi ingenuity?
“This was at a flat a few years ago in Newtown, Wellington,” says Gavan Russell of Plumbing Technologies. “Tenant being proactive while waiting many months for the landlord to take action. The tap spindle had no thread left so was really now a self opening type.”
Flat out
“Certainly a different way to install a trap—I haven’t seen one done this way before,” says Dale Lovell of Heron Plumbing.
Burning question
“Thought you might like this doozy installation of wood burner,” says Stan Bossom, Building Control Officer at the South Wairarapa District Council. “Maybe they open the door and fireplace self-empties??”
Just shocking
Bucket full of…
“Drove past this and literally had to stop and turn around to take a picture,” says Chris Southam. “Nothing but shocking!”
“Just a few photos of a house we inspected for a friend,” say Grant and Kathie Jones. “Couldn’t find out where the bucket ‘trap’ went to. Has since been fixed.”
Please send the biggest size photos you have. The bigger the file, the bigger we can show it on the page!
August/September 2018 81
AND FINALLY
DODGY Plumbing
UED
CONTIN
Slow to drain
Thanks to Wim at Custom Plumbing Services for sending in this photo. “Found this on a job in Christchurch,” he says. “Client called to say the kitchen sink doesn’t drain quickly, and while I was on site could I have a look at his dishwasher as it has a leak at the trap... Looks to me he (or previous owner) may have removed an InSinkErator and got some parts from Mitre10 to connect it all back up, and look water goes somewhere (slowly).”
A sorry collection
Round the bend
This pic of a pipe going to a shower mixer with a homemade 90° bend in it was sent in by Jonathon Keller at Laser Plumbing Hawera. “Maybe they were trying to save money on fittings,” he says. “The inside didn’t look good for the flow either.”
“These photos were taken on jobs I’ve visited as a maintenance plumber,” says Shaun Rosacker of Bell Plumbing & Drainage. “First, a home handyman’s attempt at stopping a crox nut from leaking—I couldn’t believe what I found here, I was absolutely gobsmacked by this attempt! The best part was all the solder that had dripped off this mess had embedded itself in the newly installed acrylic shower tray (we were later called upon to supply and fit a new tray!). Second pic is of a 100mm WC riser with an upside down junction taking a 50mm kitchen waste, which for some strange reason drained very slowly. Any ideas? Last but not least was a 100mm line feeding a grease trap. I’m not sure if any fat actually made it into the grease trap by the looks of this discharge pipe!!”
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August/September 2018
Bin it!
“Plastic rubbish bin with lid as a header tank!” says Graeme of Graeme Sinclair Plumbing. “This is what we encountered in the roof space of a 90-something-yearold gent. He told us his son did it for him some years ago, as the trap door wasn’t big enough for a standard black polythene tank. We didn’t have the heart to tell him that neoprene tanks can be contorted somewhat to go through most trap doors!”
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Congratulations
New Zealand Plumbing Awards Product of the Year 2018! ...and SHOUT! We’re totally pumped that TWIST® has received the prestigious Master Plumbers Product of the Year Award 2018. If you’re not familiar with what TWIST® can do then keep reading.
A smart and sustainable solution for rainwater harvesting. › Twist helps homeowners maintain a secondary source of water by turning a single downpipe into a tap › A compact water diverter, Twist quick connects to a small collection tank via any standard hose fitting › Designed for tanks up to 1,000 litres, Twist can fill a 300-litre tank in an hour* › It saves free water for the garden, topping up the pool, general cleaning or emergency use › In rural settings Twist can divert water to drinking troughs which are close to the house or out buildings
Now there’s something to shout about with your customers! Find out more and watch videos at marley.co.nz/twist
*Simulated test conditions. See Marley.co.nz for more information.
New Plum Zealand bing Awar ds PR
OD THE Y UCT OF EAR 2 018