NZ Plumber August-September 2019 by NZ Plumber

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

GASFITTING THEME Updates, info and lessons learnt

SATISFYING THE CUSTOMER How to do it and why it matters

APPRENTICE TRAINING REFORMS

What they mean for your business

EDITORIAL

Volume 71, Number 4 MAGAZINE TEAM CEO Greg Wallace EDITOR Beverly Sellers 03 543 2008 bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz DESIGN Sally Travis Design www.sallytravisdesign.co.nz PRINT Blue Star 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 bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz To order an annual subscription, go to www.masterplumbers.org.nz MAILING LIST For enquiries, or to update your details: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz Non-Master Plumbers’ members with address detail changes should notify the PGD Board direct, giving their registration number here: registration@pgdb.co.nz TO ADVERTISE Contact Alton Anamani advertising@masterplumbers.org.nz

Dodgy or dangerous? There’s a serious message behind some of those dodgy photos at the back of the magazine.

FROM TALKING TO readers around the country, it’s safe to say our Dodgy Plumbing pages are a favourite. Each edition, we get sent photos of weird and wonderful attempts at plumbing—usually (though sadly not always) by home handymen. It’s not just plumbing, either. Drains blocked by triffid roots and BBQ gas bottles propped on blocks to serve the house supply also feature regularly. Some are outrageously funny and easily fixed by competent, qualified plumbers. A few, however, represent a dangerous situation for the public (see Energy Safety letter below). As this edition of NZ Plumber was being put together, the news broke of the dreadful gas explosion in Christchurch. Disasters of this kind are thankfully rare, and the exact cause was not known as the magazine went to print. What the event does highlight, though, is how serious situations can get when things go wrong. If you come across a gas installation that presents immediate danger to life or property, you should report it to the PGDB and Energy Safety. The PGDB also wants to hear about unauthorised people carrying out work, or any concerns about plumbing, gasfitting and drainage work you come across. The easiest way to let the PGDB know is via their Report a Cowboy app (R.A.C), which you can download free from Google Play or the App Store. There is a check box to request confidentiality but, if you request this, the report can only be used as intelligence. However, the PGDB says even confidential reports can help the investigations team. Meanwhile, keep your photos coming in to NZ Plumber—there’s a lot to learn from those dodgy snaps!

Beverly Sellers Editor, NZ Plumber, bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

OVER TO YOU 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.

The best email, letter, tip or photo sent in by readers that we publish on this page wins a $50 prize voucher. Email the Ed: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

Fault notice reporting to Energy Safety In his letter to the editor in the June-July 2019 edition, Mr Trevallion makes a good point in regards asking what was done about ‘dodgy’ installations [sent in for the Dodgy Plumbing pages]. Unfortunately none was reported to WorkSafe-Energy Safety, so no action could be taken. On p85 of the June-July edition, we note a “Portadoozy!”, where a gas water heater has been installed in a port a loo type shower cubicle. Energy Safety issued a prohibition on these items in 2012 by notice in Gazette. The gazette notice can be found here: https://gazette.govt.nz/notice/id/2012-go7257 We would very much like the gasfitter who submitted this photo to get in touch with us using the online Installation Fault Notice Form, so we can follow it up: energysafety.govt. nz/forms/installation-fault-notice-form We don’t intend to follow up people who have sent in dodgy gasfitting photos to find out why they haven’t notified us or the details of the property, so please don’t feel like we will come after you for sending in a photo to the magazine. Often the installation has already been rectified, so safety has been achieved. Anthony Christenhusz, Technical Officer, WorkSafe-Energy Safety

August/September 2019

Photograph courtesy of Stuff.

Plumbing work behind the new Pic's Peanut Butter World.

Contents

Master Plumbers wants urgent action on Legionella risks. .

What makes Kenny Geenty a winner.

2019 Tabbie Award Winner! Great news—just as we were off to print, we learnt that NZ Plumber has won a Silver Tabbie in the 2019 Trade, Association and Business Publications International Awards. We're rapt!

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

EVENTS

REAL LIVES

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

24 The right stuff Meet a Hawke’s Bay plumber with a winning approach

34 Peanut butter plumbing Plumbing work at Pic’s Peanut Butter World

46 Confident communicator Why this Nelson apprentice is a standout with customers

44 Servicing the stargazers A wastewater treatment install on a challenging site

Industry calendar events and training for your diary

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8

Updates for members plus CEO Greg Wallace considers training review outcomes

MASTER PLUMBERS BENEFITS

52 Brothers and sons Passing on the plumbing passion for

13 Discover the business benefits available to members, including some brand-new resources

TECHNICAL THEME: GAS INSTALLATIONS

IN FOCUS

27 Appliance flue systems Pre-installation considerations

16 Christchurch gas explosion Issues for gasfitters to consider

COVER STORY

19 Fixing the plumbing skills shortage Letter from Education Minister Chris Hipkins and the Master Plumbers view 22 New Zealand construction trends What are the top 5 industry concerns? 4

August/September 2019

30 Ventilation of open flued appliances Do you know the requirements? 32 Gas Standards update Read about 5601 proposals 33 Non-compliant or unsafe What’s the difference?

NUTS & BOLTS 38 Call for Legionella management Plumbing system risks and why Master Plumbers wants urgent action 40 Standards spotlight The importance of making joint decisions with Australia 42 Hot water thermal efficiency Advice on efficient hot water water system design 43 Technical Q&A Your chance to ask for advice in our new technical column!

ON THE COVER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

GASFITTING THEME

Updates, info and lessons learnt

SATISFYING THE CUSTOMER How to do it and why it matters

APPRENTICE TRAINING REFORMS

What they mean for your business

Is your business sale ready?

INDUSTRY TALK 49 Obituary: John Seamer Farewell to a dedicated supporter of Master Plumbers 49 Comradery and charity Caroma CARC’s handsome cheque for charity 49 ‘Disappointing’ flushable wipes judgement Why Water NZ is unhappy with a recent ruling

55 Dismissal: follow process Why staff dismissal without process can cost you dear 56 Preventing customer complaints How to avoid complaints about costs 58 5 ways to protect your reputation as you grow Don’t let your business reputation slip 60 Stress-free EOFY Tips on preventing end of year tax stress

50 Literacy & numeracy support Learn about this new programme for the trades

61 In the office Andrea Lovell explains why everyone needs a ‘company bible’

51 Australian plumbing stalwart honoured Royal recognition for major services to the industry

62 Is your business emergency ready? A new mini series on emergency and crisis management advice

ASSOCIATIONS & BRANCHES 53 Auckand in action Auckland Master Plumbers acknowledge industry contributors

SMART BUSINESS 54 Exit planning advice Do you have a plan for when you retire?

NEXT GENERATION 64 Masterlink messageboard Updates from the Masterlink apprentice management company 68 Team exercise What the Master Plumbers Apprentice Outward Bound Scholarship winner learnt from his experience

On the cover: Masterlink apprentice Ben McCulloch, overall 2019 Plumbing World Scholarship winner, in the workshop of host employer Jackson Plumbing (Nelson) Ltd. Read Ben's profile on p46.

70 Career switch success Why this female plumbing apprentice is enjoying her new career

HEALTH & SAFETY 72 Toolbox tips Short ‘n snappy health & safety tips to share with the team 73 Size, pace, space Helping your staff make informed decisions about alcohol 74 Low height risks Why there's no room for complacency when working at low heights 76 Preventing suicides in construction What’s being done?

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 78 Discover what’s new to market and this edition's Master Plumbers Recommends feature product

AND FINALLY 81 Dodgy plumbing Funny… but serious too

August/September 2019

What’s on EVENTS

A calendar of industry events and training for the remainder of 2019.

SEPTEMBER

PGDB & Mico CPD Session *** Auckland Central $35 inc GST ecommerceskills.org.nz/ pgdb2019

PGDB & Mico CPD Session * Kerikeri $35 inc GST ecommerceskills.org.nz/ pgdb2019

PGDB & Mico CPD Session * Auckland North (Albany) $35 inc GST ecommerceskills.org.nz/ pgdb2019

Courageous Conversations training course Hastings From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

Courageous Conversations training course Rotorua From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

Commissioning Domestic Gas Appliance Installations training course New Plymouth From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

Carters CONZTRUCT trade show Christchurch Free carters.co.nz/construct

Courageous Conversations training course Nelson From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

How to Get the Best from your Staff training course Auckland From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

OCTOBER

Developing High Trust within Teams training course Lower Hutt From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

PGDB & Mico CPD Session *** Auckland Central $35 inc GST ecommerceskills.org.nz/ pgdb2019

Carters CONZTRUCT trade show Invercargill Free carters.co.nz/construct

Facilities Integrate Expo Auckland Free Facilitiesintegrate.nz

ATP Electrical Training Auckland $995 inc GST carinev@shift.org.nz

Developing High Trust within Teams training course Auckland From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

Developing High Trust within Teams training course Queenstown From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

Developing High Trust within Teams training course Tauranga From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz Developing High Trust within Teams training course Hamilton From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

Developing High Trust within Teams training course Nelson From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

ATP Electrical Training Auckland $995 inc GST carinev@shift.org.nz

*Afternoon session ** Morning session *** Morning and afternoon sessions

August/September 2019

Carters CONZTRUCT trade show Queenstown Free carters.co.nz/construct

Developing High Trust within Teams training course Palmerston North From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

PGDB & Mico CPD Session *** Auckland North (Albany) $35 inc GST ecommerceskills.org.nz/ pgdb2019

Carters CONZTRUCT trade show Dunedin Free carters.co.nz/construct

Estimating & Tendering for Plumbers Wellington (3-day course) $2,000 inc GST masterplumbers.org.nz GasNZ Industry

Forum Christchurch gasnz.org.nz

Auckland Build 2019 Auckland Free aucklandbuildexpo.com • Building & Facilities Management Summit • BIM & Digital Construction Summit • Women in Construction Summit • Auckland Build Expo Conference Developing High Trust within Teams training course Christchurch From $100 ex GST masterplumbers.org.nz

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

Master Plumbers Training

Book your place for some fantastic courses on the Master Plumbers Training timetable. Course discounts are available to Master Plumbers members, their staff and apprentices — and now also to NZPM shareholders!

Courageous Conversations At some point most of us need to have a difficult conversation with an employee, colleague or manager. This course covers: • Why we often avoid difficult conversations • Identifiying performance and behavioural issues • Developing skills to address poor performance and behaviour • Gaining commitment to lasting change • Giving feedback. Dates & venues: See calendar opposite Cost (ex GST): $130 pp ($104 NZPM shareholders; $100 Master Plumbers members)

Developing High Trust within Teams A team without trust isn’t really a team. No matter how capable or talented your people are, they may never reach their full potential if trust isn’t present. This course covers: • Identifiying ‘zones’ people work in, depending on trust levels • Developing strategies to improve team trust • How to achieve the ‘four pillars’ of trust. Dates & venues: See calendar opposite Cost (ex GST): $130 pp ($104 NZPM shareholders; $100 Master Plumbers members)

Commissioning Domestic Gas Appliance Installations How to commission a gas appliance installation and check it is operating correctly and efficiently—plus the tasks that must be done to comply with NZS 5601 and the Gas Act. Dates & venues: See calendar opposite Cost (ex GST): $130 pp ($104 NZPM shareholders; $100 Master Plumbers members) These are just some of the courses available. Check out the full list at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/membership/training

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

CEO’S REPORT THE GAS EXPLOSION that occurred in Christchurch on 19 July was a truly catastrophic event and our sympathies are with the affected homeowners and neighbouring properties. The personal and mental impact of the disaster will be with them for a long time. I also have sympathy for the gasfitter concerned, who has been reported to have attended a job at the property prior to the explosion. At this stage, we don’t know the outcome of the investigations and there is no point speculating on what occurred. As an industry, we need to learn from these events and ensure our industry is operating to the best possible trade practices. Gasfitting work deals with combustible materials and gasfitters undertake a high level of training to ensure they are operating compliantly for the safety of the consumer.

we want to ensure that New Zealand consumers remain confident in gas appliances

This was a rare event and we want to ensure that New Zealand consumers remain confident in gas appliances and gasfitting installations. We will be keeping a close eye on the outcome of the investigations but, in the meantime, my advice to members is to remind existing customers of the minimum service recommendations for their gas appliances. The industry has seen a spike in gas servicing enquiries and we should be doing the best we can to meet demand to restore consumer confidence. Gas servicing is a specialist part of the trade and, similar to backflow and solar, requires specific training and upskilling to ensure the industry is operating at the highest levels. In the wake of the disaster, Master Plumbers is reviewing the minimum public liability insurance cover we require our members to hold. It is estimated that the Christchurch event caused in excess of $4m worth of damage to the house and neighbouring properties. Our Quality Assurance process currently requires public liability cover of at least $1m and we are looking to increase this to $2m. We are aware that most members already have in excess of $2m cover, depending on the nature of their work. What this event has shown is that, even for servicing and maintenance, $1m is not sufficient to cover potential liabilities. Once we complete the review, we will

inform members of the new minimum requirement and will put this in place to protect our members’ businesses and provide added confidence to New Zealand consumers. As this edition was going to print, the Government announced decisions on its vocational education review (RoVE) via a live Facebook feed. Despite a six-week consultation, little seems to have changed from the original plan. The detail must now be worked through ahead of the transition phase, which starts on 1 April 2020. We know that new apprentice signups have slowed as a consequence of the review and we want to reassure the industry that any new system will have a smooth transition. According to the latest BDO Construction Survey Report (see p22), continuing growth is forecast in most New Zealand regions over the next four years and an extra 50,000 workers will be needed in the construction industry by 2022. It’s important that members keep growing apprentice numbers. As the Christchurch event has shown, meeting consumer health and safety requirements puts extreme pressure on workloads for businesses facing major skills shortages.

day ahead of the meeting for the recently upgraded Board induction process, which gave him a useful opportunity to become familiar with the expectations set out in the Board policies and procedures. The meeting included discussion regarding the global drive for diversity at Board tables, which have traditionally

been made up primarily of middle-aged white males. Whilst I believe Board members should be elected on merit, no matter what their age, gender or ethnicity, there is no doubt that a diverse board brings different perspectives and skills to the mix. I would love to have more members look to join the Board in future, adding to our wish to increase its diversity. I would definitely recommend getting involved with a great bunch of like-minded people wanting to improve the industry for all.

Greg Wallace, CEO Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT AT THE FIRST Board meeting after the Master Plumbers AGM in May, decisions were made on roles for the 2019-20 Board. Rod Miller and I are both pleased to enter our third terms as President and Chairman respectively, and I’m pleased to report that Dave Strong has been appointed Chairman of Masterlink, the Master Plumbers-owned apprentice management company. This was the first meeting for new Board member Dale Lovell, of Heron Plumbing in Auckland. Dale arrived a

August/September 2019

the meeting included discussion regarding the global drive for diversity at Board tables

Craig Foley, Board Chairman Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

NEW member resource

Access some great discounts with Employee Assistance Programme provider EAP Services Ltd. PCBUs are expected to have effective systems in place to protect both the physical and mental health of their workers. EAP Services’ employer-funded Employee Assistance Programme provides staff with short-term, confidential and professional support for a range of personal and workplace issues. Members are entitled to a discounted $50+GST annual management fee and pay just $135+GST per one-hour session for themselves or their staff.

A warm welcome to new member businesses: • Alba Plumbing, Gas & Heating, Otago • Carrington Plumbing & Central Heating, Wellington • Gully Plumbing and Gas, Wellington • Liberty Plumbing, Auckland • MD Robinson Plumbing, Auckland • New Flow, Southland

Want to find out more? Contact Tim Horne: • 04 472 5353 • 027 555 0436 • tim.horne@eapservices.co.nz

Best in Brand

So many entries to choose from and another stand-out winner. Your turn next? “We finally have our branding completed and thought it would be a good contender,” said Andy Gowland-Douglas at Plumb Duck on submitting the Westport firm’s Best in Brand entry. “We are really pleased with it and it certainly stands out!” Congratulations Andy—we agree, and we love the way you’ve used the Master Plumbers brand on your building as

NEW MEMBERS

well as your vans. A $200 Prezzy® Card voucher on its way to you now. Who’s our next winner? To enter our Best in Brand competition, just send us a photo of how you’re using the Master Plumbers brand on your vehicles, workwear or signage. Email Sarah Rowe by 6 September: srowe@masterplumbers.org.nz

Training discounts for NZPM shareholders

NZPM shareholders now enjoy a 20% discount on all courses on the Master Plumbers Training timetable. Members of Master Plumbers have always enjoyed significant discounts on Master Plumbers Training courses. We’re delighted to announce that a 20% discount on all courses is now also available to NZPM shareholders, who can opt to use their Plumbing World MaxPoints to pay for their discounted training by entering a code when they book online at www.masterplumbers.org.nz Plumbing World MaxPoints Members who are not NZPM shareholders can also use their MaxPoints to pay for Master Plumbers training courses at the full rate. To find out more, visit: www.masterplumbers. org.nz/membership/ training

Updated HR resources

Use our updated employment agreement resources in your business —and we have new fact sheets too. Our employment agreement templates have been updated to reflect recent changes to employment law regarding: • 90-day trial periods • Rest and meal breaks • Domestic violence leave.

Go to the HR Support section of the member log-in at www.masterplumbers. org.nz to find updated executive, standard, fixed term, casual and apprentice individual employment agreements for use in your business. Plus there are two

new fact sheets on trial periods and domestic violence leave. Members will also find a new privacy policy template in this section. The policy sets out how you will use, collect and store your team’s personal information.

August/September 2019

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Meet the Board

Over the next few editions, NZ Plumber will profile the 2019-20 members of the national Master Plumbers Board. We begin with Chairman Craig Foley. Plumbing is in Craig Foley’s blood. The grandson of Albert Foley, who set up AG Foley in Dunedin in 1934, from a young age Craig worked at the company after school, at weekends and in school holidays with his father Brian. Craig went on to become a Director of the company in the late 1980s, at a time when it had grown to 24 staff under Brian, who built the business by taking on apprentices. It has since grown to more than 200 employees, offering plumbing, drainlaying, gasfitting, electrical, mechanical and HVAC services, with branches in Dunedin, Central and South Otago, Christchurch, Oamaru, Queenstown, Wanaka, Ranfurly, Twizel and, as of this April, Palmerston North. Craig has been supported in all his

endeavours by wife Lynne and says the core values of the business are to be family oriented with an open sense of humour. “We also value being conscientious about presentation, always responsible, saying what we think and being prepared to go the extra mile.” Foleys has been a member of Master Plumbers for the past 85 years. “My grandfather Albert joined as he believed in working together to improve the industry for all—which still stands true today,” he says. Like his grandfather before him, Craig joined the national Master Plumbers Board to give back to the industry. Elected to the Board in 2014, he has been Chairman for the past three years, bringing leadership skills to the table and a willingness to expand the Society for the good of its membership.

Master Plumbers Recommends

Discover the latest products to be given the Master Plumbers Recommends tick of approval. The Master Plumbers Recommends initiative lets consumers know about reputable plumbing-related products that have received our tick of approval, based on durability, Above: Felton’s Fusion Plus® range of performance, shower mixers suits all functionality and pressures and allows availability of for easy front-of-wall maintenance. Shown spare parts—as here is the Max Fusion well as having a Plus® shower mixer. manufacturer’s guarantee. All products undergo a review by Master Plumbers National President Rod Miller, who also runs our Technical Helpline. We’re pleased to report growth in the number of products in the range. “We have recently added the Allproof Industries HWC Tundish to help address the safe tray and discharge constraints around HWC installations,”

August/September 2019

says Rod. “Also new to Master Plumbers Recommends is the Felton Fusion Plus® range of shower mixers—a very good product, with attention given to the ease of maintenance making it an option to consider.” Check out all recommended products at www.tickofapproval.co.nz

Above: Craig Foley enjoying a laugh at the 2019 NZ Plumbing Conference. AG Foley’s (Foleys) is a family-oriented business that places value on having an open sense of humour, he says.

In Craig’s view, an ageing workforce and lack of apprentice training are of the biggest challenges currently facing the industry. Foleys is committed to training apprentices and Craig's own son Nathan, the fourth generation of the Foley family, is now in the third year of his apprenticeship. Outside of work, Craig enjoys playing golf, watching rugby and catching up with friends.

New Master Plumbers Administrator

We welcome a new team member to the Master Plumbers national office. Sonja Rae joined Master Plumbers in July in the new Administrator role. With a background in recruitment and HR support, Sonja handles database, training course and general admin duties at the Wellington national office.

Want to join?

Above: Allproof Industries’ HWC Tundish helps address HWC safe tray and discharge constraints.

Special two-year membership deal available 0800 502 102; membership@ masterplumbers.org.nz www.masterplumbers.org.nz

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Buteline introduces Pexline

Master Plumbers Gold Business Partner Buteline has launched its new Pexline plumbing system. A New Zealand-owned and operated family business for 39 years, Buteline designs, manufactures and supplies plumbing systems for the New Zealand and export markets. “Buteline is proud to produce and source quality product and diversity within the range,” says Managing Director Llewellyn Picton. “Our focus is on developing innovative systems to make the plumber’s life easier. Our export markets are doing well, especially in the UK, where plumbers are moving from pushfit systems to crimp.” Buteline also supports the next generation of Kiwi plumbers by sponsoring Plumbing World’s Young Plumbers Club and Trade Up Tour of high schools around New Zealand.

Above: Buteline’s new Pexline fittings are available in black polymer or brass.

In April this year, Buteline launched the Pexline Plumbing System, offering discerning plumbers the time-proven Buteline joint utilising PEX pipe. Pexline complies with joint standards AS/NZS 2492, AS/NZS 2537 and WaterMark. Quality controlled and tested in-house, the system is covered by extensive worldwide patents. Pexline is available in three sizes: 16mm, 20mm and 25mm. There are both polymer and brass fittings in the range, of the same one-piece easy-to-install design as Buteline fittings, with high tensile strength and excellent chemical resistance. The black polymer fittings are made in New Zealand and the brass fittings by exclusive, verified Buteline suppliers offshore. The Buteline 15mm ProClamp Tool (PRO18) can be used on 16mm Pexline and vice versa. The installation procedure is easy and similar to the Buteline Plumbing System: Cut, Insert, Clamp, Complete! Start-up packs, transition fittings, special offers and free crimp tools are all available to get plumbers going with this new, costcompetitive plumbing system. Buteline also has a dedicated nationwide sales and technical support team on 0800 BUTELINE to help with any queries. For more information, visit www.pexline.com

Above: Start-up packs, transition fittings, special offers and free crimp tools are all available to get plumbers going with the new Pexline system.

Learn more about Pexline • View the Pexline Plumbing System intro video at https://youtu.be/sHcMLqK-Ra8 • Or view the video on the Buteline Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ • •

ButelinePlumbingSystemsNZ Visit www.pexline.com Organise a Factory Tour by calling 0800 BUTELINE

Conference feedback

Thank you to all members and Business Partners who responded to our 2019 conference survey. It was fantastic to get an 85% excellence rating on the overall 2019 New Zealand Plumbing Conference from members responding to our post-conference survey. “The whole conference from start to finish was absolutely fantastic—I hope to attend more of these in the future,” said one respondent. “First Master Plumbers conference and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience,” said another. We also gained some useful ideas and suggestions to help us make next year even bigger and better. Planning is already

Above: The 2019 NZ Plumbing Conference at Sanctuary Cove in Queensland received an 85% overall excellence rating from members that responded to our survey.

underway for the 2020 event, which will be held in the lower South Island. More information coming soon!

August/September 2019

Platinum Partners Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ thanks the following Platinum Partners for their support:

Gold Partners Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ thanks the following Gold Partners for their support:

Silver Partners Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ thanks the following Silver Partners for their support:

August/September 2019

Supporting Your Business

MASTER PLUMBERS BENEFITS

Resources, discounts and savings available to Master Plumbers members.

Master Plumbers is here to assist member businesses in every way possible. Discover the many benefits available to those who join. It’s all in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

Marketing Support Master Plumbers Brand

Master Plumbers Guarantee

The Master Plumbers logo is available for download in various file formats and colourways, both stacked and horizontal. Display the logo on your company uniforms, vehicles and building signage to show clients your work is covered by the Master Plumbers Guarantee and is Quality Assured. Members can also order free vehicle decals with the Master Plumbers, Master Gasfitters and Master Drainlayers branding. Please follow our brand guidelines when using the logo.

When a residential client uses a Master Plumber, their work is covered by the Master Plumbers Guarantee for 12 months. The Guarantee applies to all residential plumbing, gasfitting or drainlaying work carried out by a Master Plumber, up to $15,000 inc GST. It covers advance payments and substandard workmanship.

Employment Support HR Helpline Contact our HR Helpline for advice on HR and employment issues (first 30 minutes’ free).

HR guidance and resources Workplace policies, recruitment guidance, performance review templates and more.

Featured resource UPDATED: employment agreements and fact sheets to reflect recent employment law changes regarding:

• 90-day trial periods • rest and meal breaks • domestic violence leave.

Business Support • •

• • • • • • •

Insurance—Competitive premiums on business and personal cover with Master Plumbers Insurance Apprentices—Source top quality, mentored apprentices through the Master Plumbers’ Masterlink apprenticeship scheme. Masterlink manages the apprentice PAYE, HR and block course arrangements. Fuel—Efficient fleet management and significant fuel savings with the Master Plumbers Mobilcard. Vehicle care—10% discount (exclusive of tyres) at Pit Stop, and just $48 ex GST for a WoF. Equipment hire—20% discount on Hirepool hire equipment. Car hire—Discounted rates on Avis rental cars. Job management—20% discount on initial implementation of simPRO Enterprise software. Training—Business courses from just $100+GST per person in the annual Master Plumbers training timetable. Office supplies—Competitive pricing on office products

Featured resource NEW: member discounts on Employee Assistance Programme for your team through EAP Services Ltd (see p9).

•

with NZ Office Supplies plus a $50+GST credit when your initial spend reaches $250+GST. Monthly deals—Regular promotions and prizes from Master Plumbers Business Partners. NZ Plumber magazine—Six issues per year in print and digital: www.nzplumber.nz

August/September 2019

MASTER PLUMBERS BENEFITS

Health & Safety Support Master Plumbers H&S App Use the app for instant on-site H&S reporting for you and your team.

Master Plumbers H&S Manual Personalised for your business.

Site Safe membership 10% discount when you join Site Safe or renew your existing membership.

First Aid training discounts Red Cross First Aid courses at a 10% discount.

Regulatory Compliance Support Residential building contracts Templates for use when doing fixed price or hourly rate work for residential clients direct. A written contract is a legal requirement for work costing $30k inc GST or more.

For jobs under $30k inc GST, you can choose to rely on our quote and terms of trade templatesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;however, we strongly recommend you provide a written residential building contract, no matter how much the building work costs.

Subcontract Agreement SA-2017

products or get a hot water cylinder replaced.

Gas certification Gas certification template downloads.

Online Standards Quotes and terms of trade

Featured resource

Online catalogue of key industry Standards, including AS/NZS 3500 and AS/NZS 5601.

Subcontract Agreement

SA 2017 Project: Trade: Subcontractor: Reference:

Best Practice Guidelines Compliance guidance on entering and administering contracts, dealing with disputes and more.

Customer letter templates

Compliance training

Helping you limit your risk when customers supply their own plumbing

Topical Master Plumbers training courses to help with business compliance.

We urge you to use the SA-2017 document whenever working for a main contractor on a commercial project.

Technical Support Technical Helpline Freephone or email Rod Miller with your plumbing, gas and drainage queries during normal business hours.

Technical Training Plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying technical courses on the Master Plumbers training timetable.

Access full details of all these benefits in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

I want to join!

Not a member and want to access these awesome benefits? Contact Steve Rushworth: 027 839 8398; srushworth@masterplumbers.org.nz

August/September 2019

PRIZES VALUED OVER

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IN FOCUS

Christchurch explosion: gasfitter considerations The cause of the devastating gas explosion at a Christchurch property in July remains under investigation by WorkSafe but raises some important issues for gasfitters to consider.

to be assured that gas appliances are safe if regularly serviced to ensure they are operating properly,” says CEO Greg Wallace. “Just as cars get an annual warrant of fitness, gas appliances should be serviced each year.” Gasfitting businesses could consider sending out yearly servicing reminders to regular customers.

Have sufficient public liability insurance IN THE AFTERMATH of the explosion in the Christchurch suburb of Northwood, some gasfitters experienced an increase in calls for gas appliance servicing, as consumers sought to check the safety of the appliances in their own homes. The incident, which injured six people, destroyed the house and damaged several neighbouring properties, was a rare event in New Zealand. As NZ Plumber went to print, WorkSafe was investigating the explosion and said the process would likely take many months, involving multiple interviews and requests for information from gasfitters, owners, tenants and other parties involved. Although it is not known at this stage exactly what caused the event, gasfitters can take some important initial learnings:

Remind customers about servicing

Keep upskilling Product technology is constantly evolving, and all gasfitters need to stay upskilled. Opportunities include compulsory CPD training, specific product training, associated tradesperson electrical training and Master Plumbers training courses. Master Plumbers is currently running a course on commissioning domestic gas appliance installations—see p7 for details.

Photograph: Stuff.

The message to consumers from Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ is to get gas appliances serviced on a regular basis to ensure their safe, efficient operation. “We want people

The event highlights the need for plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers to make sure they have good public liability insurance cover. With the increasing cost of building materials, Master Plumbers had already been reviewing its current $1m minimum public liability cover requirement for member businesses. “What this event has shown is that, even for servicing and maintenance, $1m is not sufficient to cover potential liabilities,” says Greg. “It is estimated that the incident caused in excess of $4m worth of damage to the house and neighbouring properties.”

Above: As NZ Plumber went to print, two people remained in hospital following the gas explosion at a Christchurch property on 19 July. 16

August/September 2019

IN FOCUS

Gas: lessons learnt

There are several learnings to take out of the recent prosecution of a gasfitter. Energy Safety discusses the case. What happened? This May, a Tauranga gasfitter was sentenced to four months’ community detention and 150 hours’ community service, and ordered to pay reparation of $20,000. This was reduced from an initial starting point of 14 months’ imprisonment, following an early guilty plea and other discounts. The sentencing was for a faulty gas fireplace installation in 2017, which left half of the home gutted by the fire, and the rest smoke damaged beyond repair. The most likely cause of the fire is that the gasfitter installed combustible timber (4x2) hard up to the appliance and the timber caught fire from the heat. The gasfitter’s insurer is not covering some of the gasfitter’s claim because he failed to comply

with the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010 (GSMR) when installing the gas fire.

What were the main mistakes? Two main mistakes were made in this install: • manufacturer’s instructions were not followed • appliance wasn’t checked for gas safety compliance logo. The PGD Act 2006 states that a gasfitter is guilty of a disciplinary offence if they are convicted of an offence under the Gas Act. If the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) has issues with the gasfitter’s competency, the PGDB can also take action regarding the gasfitter’s licence and/or supervision requirements. The PGDB are currently considering what action to take. ■

Why keeping good documentation is essential 1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions º Read the manufacturer’s instructions cover to cover before starting work. Download and read them before going to the job if you need to. º In this particular case: • The manufacturer’s instructions indicated the appliance was only able to be installed into a masonry chimney, or in a manufactured fire box (thick steel box designed for a wood fire) • No ‘zero clearance kit’ was available. • The flue also needed to be installed in a metal outer skin. This was clear in the instructions but was not installed by the gasfitter. º Check what else is in the cavity you are installing the flue in—are there ventilation ducts or electrical wires? If so, are they permanently restrained away from your heater or flue so that they can’t come into contact? º AS/NZS 5601 requires that surfaces next to appliances don’t exceed 65°C. 2. Check for the gas safety compliance logo º Confirm the appliance shows the gas safety logo. Always take a photo outlining the logo on the appliance and attach a copy on your certification. º In this particular case, the gasfitter noted to Energy Safety that he didn’t see a logo on the gas fire. He just assumed it could be installed as it was sold in New Zealand. This is not acceptable. º If the appliance has no logo, access the online Energy Safety gas appliance database (www.energysafety. govt.nz/gasd-home) and confirm there is a supplier declaration for the appliance for the gas type you are going to connect the appliance to. º Check that the certification attached to the declaration has the same details as the declaration. º If it is wrong or the wrong gas type, refuse to install the appliance. º If the supplier provides a conversion kit, this is not

º º

enough evidence the appliance is OK to work on that particular gas type. You must to confirm the appliance is suitable for use with the gas it is being converted to by sighting a certification and database entry. After converting the appliance, attach a label on the appliance with the new gas type. Attach a copy of the declaration and certification on your gas certificate.

3. Keep good documentation When Energy Safety undertakes investigations into cases like this, one of the first things we do is ask the gasfitter involved for their documentation for the job. This will save you time in the long run. You will be able to show Energy Safety what gasfitting you undertook and how it complied if you have: • photos • detailed descriptions • lists of parts used • serial numbers • accurate, clear and concise information. All the work you undertake must be safe and comply with the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010. Most gasfitters do ensure this, so quality documentation can assist you with a defence if the worst does happen. We have seen some documentation that was so clear and detailed, we were left with no doubt what work the gasfitter did and that the incident was not of their making. Yes, the gasfitter had to spend time providing us with the paperwork, but if your documentation is unclear and contains little detail, Energy Safety will ask many more questions and multiple information requests will likely follow to gain a full picture. This process can take months, involve interviews and may even end up with you having to explain your version of the facts in front of a judge. Lack of documentation can also look like you didn’t undertake the required testing, and lack of detail might not indicate how you arrived at the belief that the work you undertook was safe and complied with the GSMR.

August/September 2019

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IN FOCUS

Fixing the plumbing industry’s skills shortage In this opinion piece, Education Minister Chris Hipkins outlines how the changes to vocational education will make a big difference to the plumbing industry. THERE IS A deep-rooted problem for New Zealand in the number of plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers we are training versus the number your industry needs to employ. The skills shortage in the plumbing industry is real, and we as the education sector are working to resolve it. Recently we announced the Reform of Vocational Education, which will reconfigure New Zealand’s vocational education system, creating one institute (currently termed the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology— which may change) with campuses throughout New Zealand. This will enable students from all areas of the country, both in city centres and regional hubs, to have equal access to the highest-quality vocational education nearest to them. Each campus within the new national network will have offerings tailored to the needs of local industry and employers. The end result will boost learners’ access to regional, industryspecific education and training. These changes to vocational education are set to make a big difference to you and your industry in the skills shortage that has existed for so long now. As the demand for plumbers has escalated, so has the need for a stronger vocational education system. We have needed to focus on upskilling New Zealanders and providing potential plumbers and related tradies for too long now. No longer. The time for new, young students (and for older people wanting a change) to enter the plumbing trade is now. The changes the Reforms will bring will help your apprentices and trainees find the interesting and well-paid work they seek.

Above: Education Minister Chris Hipkins.

The changes we announced will put your industry in charge of the skills and training you believe plumbers need. This will be through a Workforce Development Council, which will pick up and expand the standard setting function from ITOs. Your industry will effectively be able to direct TEC to purchase the skills your industry needs from the Institute. We know also that many employers prefer on the job training, and under the new, unified vocational education system, opportunities and support for workplace training will grow. Another known fact is that there is a need to diversify within the plumbing industry. We need to increase recruitment of women, Māori and Pacific people into the industry. Only 11 per

cent of people training in construction in New Zealand (which includes plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying, among other trades, such as architecture and electrical engineering) are women. That as well as women comprising less than three per cent of all qualified tradespeople. Diversity is key to building a workforce that will take the plumbing industry into the future and underlying all of this is the need for a strong vocational education system. A unified vocational system is the way forward to see us succeed in breaking down the skills shortage in your sector. With the announcement of our Government’s Reforms, we are building greater resilience into the economy by improving access to skills education and training. This announcement is part of a once-in-a-generation plan to strengthen not only vocational education but also the economy and, a little closer to home, your own plumbing operations. These reforms, however, are just one—albeit big—piece of the puzzle. The Government is also well underway with plans to lift the status of vocational education in communities and schools. For too long it’s had to play second fiddle to university education, but that will change as we ramp up government efforts to sell the benefits of vocational education. The unified system will also make it simpler for your industry to reach into more schools in the same way that universities do. With the skills shortage of plumbers widening, we cannot sit idle. With these reforms and our wider focus on skills and trades, we have started on the path to tapping the amazing potential that exists around New Zealand. ■ August/September 2019

Training reforms: business as usual IN FOCUS

The Government’s decisions on the future for vocational education should have little impact on plumbing companies taking on apprentices, says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. WHEN THE GOVERNMENT asked for feedback on its proposals for major change to the vocational education system, it received around 3,000 submissions. Having considered all this feedback, it appears to have stuck to its original plan—albeit light on detail at this stage. “Don’t expect anything to change fast,” says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. “It’s business as usual until 1 April 2020, at which point the Government will announce its transition plan. It has assured that this transition will be gradual to minimise disruption—so businesses and apprentices should not hold off entering into apprenticeships.” Essentially, the end goal is to establish a national institute

(current working title NZ Institute of Skills and Technology), with New Zealand’s 16 existing training providers (eg, SIT, Unitec, Wintec, Weltec) becoming subsidiaries. By centralising funding, the Government aims to remove competition for funds among individual polytechs, enabling them to offer nationally consistent programmes. It’s not yet clear how this new funding model will work in practice. Under the reforms, New Zealand’s 11 industry training organisations (ITOs) will transfer their training arrangement role to training providers and will morph into Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) to fulfil their other roles. “ITOs will start the transition to WDCs from June 2021, but will continue to operate until December 2022,” says Garry Fissenden, CEO of The Skills Organisation, the ITO for the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry. “Absolutely nothing changes for us until 1 April 2020 when the transition plan is announced. For the next six months, industries and ITOs will be involved in designing the details of the new system, including the WDCs. This will be led by industry and done ITO by ITO.” ■

Q&A on apprentice training reforms During the live feed announcement of the reforms on 1 August, Education Minister Chris Hipkins answered a number of questions. We summarise some of them here. Q: What impact will this have on people’s jobs in the training sector? A: There is no Government target around job losses. Short-term, nothing will change. A small number of people may be affected in the longer term, but they will be well supported. Q: How will this impact polytechnics? A: They will eventually become subsidiaries of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (working title), and their councils replaced by subsidiary boards. Their names may change at this stage. They will not close down—if anything the Government wants to see expansion—and programmes will remain, so learners can enrol with confidence. Q: What will the new funding model look like? A: Detailed decisions have not yet been made. Work on the detail will begin in the transition period, which starts on 1 April 2020. There will be consultation to determine the structure. The current competition between polytechnics for funding to run

August/September 2019

programmes means some regions lose out. The goal is to remove this competitive model. Q: Where will the NZ Institute of Skills and Technology be based? A: Christchurch. Q: Will Fees-Free remain as is? A: Yes. Q: What impact will the changes have for current students? A: Not much at all will change this year, next year and possibly the year after. Any changes will be clearly signposted and learners supported throughout. Q: What will be done to attract more people into vocational education? A: More work will be done at primary, intermediate and secondary level to let students know what options are available to them. Fewer than a third go into degree level programmes, so there is a need to show what else is on offer.

New Zealand construction trends IN FOCUS

New Zealand’s construction industry is enjoying its longest, strongest period of growth—yet this comes with significant risks, as The BDO 2019 Construction Survey Report shows. NZ Plumber looks at the findings.

MORE THAN 200 construction-related businesses were surveyed for The BDO 2019 Construction Survey Report, including subcontractors and construction companies in the housing and commercial sectors. The key theme that emerged was the growing divide between good and “fragile” operators, as recent high-profile insolvencies had demonstrated, said co-author James McQueen in his report foreword. “Due to the unique nature of the industry, the profit measurement, accounting and taxation aspects are sometimes poorly understood, and the consequences of errors significant,” he noted. “As such, construction businesses can benefit hugely from specialist advisers that understand the challenges and issues and are able to provide appropriate advice.”

Top 5 industry concerns Staffing: Availability and quality of staff is a major concern and more needs to be done to build a pipeline of skilled workers 2. Cash flow: Squeezed margins and inconsistent cash flow mean that industry solvency is a growing concern 3. Compliance: Compliance is costing time and money while bureaucracy and paperwork are tying up resources  SUBCONTRACTORS’ MARGINS ARE 4. Industry-wide skills shortages: The skills NOT SUSTAINABLE shortage extends to local government and other professionals in the industry To understand subcontractors’ gross margins, we asked, “When competing for new Mental health: health risks loom as projects, at what 5. margin are you missing outMental on winning contracts?” the industry’s challenges take their toll 1.

Level Of Margin That Subcontractors Are Missing Out On Projects 2018 4%

2019 7%

35%

14%

30%

August/September 2019

26% 43%

Over 40%

30-39%

Half of 10% or these c subcon gross m

The mo subcon 10%. Su proport higher expose

We ask from th subcon mentio

Protecting subcontractors

Survey responses were permeated by a focus on lowest cost, according to report co-author BDO Construction Specialist Nick Innes-Jones—and this was accentuated by poor understanding of costs and breakeven points, compounded by poor management reporting and measurement of costs and profit. “Due to intense competition and a focus on providing services at the lowest cost, many subcontractors’ margins remain too small for long-term viability,” he noted. According to the report, half of the subcontractors surveyed are missing out on projects with under 10% or between 1019% margin. “While the percentage of respondents in these categories has reduced by 25% from last year, there are still too many subcontractors in the industry competing for projects at an unsustainable gross margin. “The more alarming trend shows that approximately one third of the subcontractors surveyed are still missing out on contracts at margins under 10%. Subcontractors generally have a lower turnover and higher overhead proportion compared to a head contractor, and thus need to operate with higher margins to recover these expenses and be profitable.” Head contractors need subcontractors to undertake available

CURREN

23%

20-29%

10-19%

Under 10%

Above: Level of margin that subcontractors are missing out on projects.

projects—the survival of both depends on it, said Innes-Jones. “The industry therefore needs to focus its attention on the survival of capable subcontractors.”

Forward work pipeline decreasing

Despite the forecast level of work increasing, the 2019 survey showed companies needing more work had grown significantly from the previous year’s survey. The number of those with more than 12 months’ forward work had also decreased significantly. Many respondents cited concerns over an industry slowdown and lack of profitable incoming work—with a regional theme to these concerns. Forward work in Christchurch, in particular, had plummeted,

The gro the rest greater

Similar require to adve

Put sim compet and pro to the p

  GROWTH, ANDFORWARD FORWARD WORK GROWTH, CAPACITY CAPACITY AND WORK

IN FOCUS

The following an overview overviewofofthe theconstruction construction cycles, growth forecast growth. The followinggraph graphprovides provides an cycles, growth and and forecast growth.

AllAll National byvalue value NationalBuilding Buildingand andConstruction, Construction, by

Future Outlook Future WorkWork Outlook 2018 2018 6%

17% 39%

37%

2019

17% 19%

19%

39% 19%

37%

19% 32%

13%

18% We have sufficient confirmed work for over 12 months

We have sufficient confirmed work for 6-12 months

We have sufficient confirmed work for over 12 months We have sufficient confirmed work for the next 0-3 months

Above: All national building and construction, by value. Industry capacity, physical and financial, has been the greatest inhibitor of growth. Additionally, high building costs impact project feasibility and finance Industry capacity, physical andDespite financial, been the of greatest inhibitor offorward limitations constrain growth. the has forecast work increasing, with 45% of respondents having lesslevel than three months’our 2019 survey reflects high a significant change. needing more work growth. Additionally, building costs Companies impact project feasibility andhave finance work. significantly increased and those with the moreforecast than 12 level months forward work has our limitations constrain growth. Despite of work increasing, significantly decreased. Thereflects report noted, however, that industry is becoming 2019 survey a significant change. Companies needing more work have

significantly increasedsegregated and those with more than 12 months work has increasingly between those that areforward struggling and significantly decreased.

We have sufficient confirmed work for 3-6 months

We have sufficient confirmed work for 6-12 months

We have sufficient confi work for 3-6 months

We need more work

We have sufficient confirmed

Above: Future outlook. work forwork the next 0-3 months

We need more work

When we delve deeper, the forward work in Christchurch has plummeted. 45% of When we delve deeper, forward Christchurch respondents havethe under three work months’ forward work.has Under 10% have 45% over of in Christchurch plummeted. 12 months’ forwardrespondents work. Christchurch have under three

THE SECTOR’S FORWARD WORK THE SECTOR’S PIPELINE IS FORWARD WORK DECREASING

PIPELINE IS DECREASING

months’ forward work. Under 10% have over 12 months’ forward work.

those that have strong profits, a strong balance sheet, a great team, and are well placed to capitalise on the opportunities. “There is an increasing level of forward work available to them and their preferred subcontractors.” ■

We recommend reading the BDO 2019 Construction Survey Report in full at https://www.bdo.nz/BDO_NZ/media/bdo/ Construction-Survey-Report-2019_1.pdf



TENTIONS INSPECTION

COMPLIANCE WITH THE RETENTIONS REGIME Above: The BDO 2019 Construction Survey Report identifies key challenges for both head contractors and subcontractors.

regime has been in place since April 2017. The the onus for enforcement on those that have ucted from their progress claims by giving them nspect trust records at any reasonable time.

survey saw significant improvement in the number InspectionOur Of 2019 Retentions Receivable of those who say they fully comply. In 2018 only 72% of Held In Trust

respondents who had retentions payable held these funds Compliance with retentions regime in trust, had an insurance policy, or used non-cash assets as

According the report, rvey we asked how many check totosee if their the retentions regime eivables are held in trust by their customers. Wein by the level of inaction as, since given most the the place 2017ofputs s locked up in retentions receivable, this is basic enforcement onus on ent.

those that have retentions nd despite a number of high profile insolvencies deducted from ustry and shortfalls of funds in trust, wetheir see little ement. In fact, the number of those actively progress claims by giving r head contractor’s trust records has only them theappears abilitytoto 0% (+4% on last year). There beinspect no trustdorecords. The 2018 on as to why companies not do this. survey showed a high level

N ONE THIRD OF RESPONDENTS of inaction in this regard and O ENSURE THAT THEIR this year’s survey saw little NS RECEIVABLE ARE HELD

sign of improvement. “In fact, the number of ng, for those who did ask toactively inspect, almost those inspecting nd at least one customer who was not holding their head contractor’s trust This is up from 36% in our 2018 survey. These records has simply not complying with the law.only improved to 30% (+4% on last year).”

16%

32%

13%

18%

How Companies Are, Or Are Not, Complying With The Retentions Regime

COMPANIES NEED TO security. In 2019 this has increased The to 93% - a clear indication 2019 survey showed that andMORE PROACTIVE 14%this area of the Act is now better understoodBE significant improvement compliance is improving. This is positive for the industry as, AND ACTIVELY two years on from the commencement of the new regime, the in the number of those INSPECT majority of contracts should fall under the Act’s new rules. THEIR who say they fully comply CLIENTS’ TO Improved compliance may also help avoid the need for a more RECORDS25% with the regime—with 93% FUNDS oppressive regime like the one introduced in Australia. ENSURE THEIR

2% 7%

of respondents had AREwho HELD IN TRUST 9 IN 10 ARE COMPLYING retentions WITH THE payable holding REQUIREMENT70% TO HOLDthese FUNDS INinTRUST funds trust, having an have insurance policy or using The vast majority of respondents who retentions payable (90%) use cash to comply with thenon-cash Act. Of these, 72% are assets as security. holding cash in a separate account in trust, with the remaining “This is positive for the having sufficient We do not 28% know as we have not askedcash our but not using a separate account. customers While the intermingling of funds is industry as, two years on allowed under the Act, this is risky and does not guaranteefrom that the funds are held in the commencement We have asked to inspect the records or enquired trust. Instead, best practice is to hold the retention monies in and it was satisfactory in every instance of the new regime, the a specific trust account at the bank, for example labelled “XYZ majority of contracts We have identified at least 1Retentions customer who is Account”. Construction Trust This ensures that in ashould not holdings funds in trustor liquidation situation it is very clear that the funds receivership fall under the Act’s new are held in trust and cannot be used for any other purpose. rules,” noted the report.

Above: Inspection of retentions receivable The heldnumber in trust.of respondents who use an insurance policy rather than holding cash has fallen from 10% in 2018 to 1% in 2019. This is unsurprising, given the liquidation of CBL insurance in 2018 and the limited number of insurance companies that provide retentions insurance.

65%

We are holding cash in trust We are using non cash assets as security We always have sufficient cash but are not using a separate account We prefer not to answer this We have a retentions insurance policy

Above: How companies are, or are not, complying with the retentions regime.

August/September 2019

REAL LIVES

The right stuff Twenty-one years into his career, Kenny Geenty has earned a top plumbing award for his attitude and work ethic. Gena Tuffery talked to him about the win. THERE’S CLEARLY GREAT respect between foreman Kenny Geenty and his bosses Mark Watkins and Bevan Gully at Advanced Plumbing Hawke’s Bay. There’s also great friendship—and even shared holidays. “Bevan, his wife Andrea, myself and my partner Jontelle all went to Surfers Paradise for a couple of days after the NZ Plumbing Awards in May,” Kenny says. They had plenty to celebrate, with Kenny winning the NZ Plumber, Gasfitter or Drainlayer of the Year Award at the event, held at Australia’s Sanctuary Cove. Although earning the title had been a longtime dream, he says it still came as a 24

August/September 2019

complete surprise on the night. “Hearing my name, then walking up in front of 300 people was just so surreal.” Although Kenny’s work on high-end projects, such as Xero founder Rod Drury’s Havelock North house, speaks for itself, Mark had some strong words of praise to add in nominating Kenny for the award. “Kenny’s not only good at his job, he’s also an effective leader,” he wrote. “He’s known for going out of his way to better his apprentices—whether that be coming in early to go over ideas, or simply involving them in every stage of a job so everything done is known and understood.” Kenny works hard at passing his knowledge onto the next generation, taking an apprentice with him wherever he goes. “It’s really important to do that,” he says. “I’ve had at least 10 apprentices with me since I was an apprentice myself in Napier, back in 1998. And they’ll hand on the knowledge again themselves. That’s how it goes.” Kenny recommends plumbing to

Top: Kenny Geenty with apprentice Hayden going over the plans for a Havelock North homestead renovation. Above: Kenny puts the finishing touches to a double fire install.

REAL LIVES

anyone thinking about taking it up as a career, provided they’ve got a keen attitude and don’t mind sometimes getting their hands dirty. “Look, plumbing certainly comes with its challenges,” he says, “but that’s what makes it so enjoyable—when it all comes together, and everything works. When you’ve figured it out.” Everyone puts in the hard yards at Advanced Plumbing Hawke’s Bay, and Kenny is no exception. “I run various jobs at the same time, bringing people in as I need them, three or four on each project,” he says. “I’m always everywhere at once.” His current challenge is a large 100-year-old homestead in Havelock North. “It’s been completely gutted,” he says, “but all the interior walls are concrete. We’re designing the plumbing system for the five upstairs bathrooms and one downstairs.” This particular house doesn’t have a fireplace, but Kenny says he also does many complex and complicated fireplace

Above: Kenny celebrating his award with Mark Watkins (left) and Bevan Gully of Advanced Plumbing Hawke’s Bay.

installs all over Hawke’s Bay. Although every job involves a slightly different approach, he always does one thing the same. “It all comes down to building relationships with the clients and awesome builders we work for on a daily

basis. We keep the communication going all the way through, so they’re informed at every stage and know exactly what’s happening,” he says. “The people I work with always know that they can give me a call at any time.” ■

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TECHNICAL THEME

GAS INSTALLATIONS

This editionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical theme focuses on compliant installation and ventilation of gas appliances to ensure safe operation. In this section Appliance flue systems

Ventilation of open flued appliances 30 Gas Standards update

Non-compliant or unsafe?

August/September 2019

TECHNICAL THEME

Appliance flue systems GAS APPLIANCES SOLD in New Zealand must be able to operate safely and, in general, there must be a supplier declaration, which can be found on Energy Safety’s Gas Appliance Safety Declaration (GASD) online database at www.energysafety.govt.nz/gasd-home Most internal gas appliances require a correctly installed flue system, which is crucial to ensure safe operation. A poor flue system can: • cause problems with the appliance • create a fire hazard • in the worst-case scenario, prove fatal due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Room-sealed units vs open flued Most modern internal gas appliances are designed to be roomsealed, balanced flue units, which may be natural draught or fan-assisted. These units take air for combustion from outside the building and discharge products of combustion (POC) to the same location. As the name suggests, the unit casing is sealed from the room to prevent POC entering the room and to prevent the need for ventilation to supply fresh air for combustion. Built-in safety devices will ensure the flue system is operating correctly and stop operation if there is a problem. Open flued appliances are still popular as replacements and, if installed correctly, will also operate safely. It is, however, important to identify what type of flue any existing unit has, and to ensure the flue has been installed correctly before deciding on a replacement product. Natural draught open flue systems rely on thermal convection within the flue as the driving force to provide the upward movement. The hot gases from combustion are less dense than the cooler ambient air, so the hot gas will rise above a similar cooler gas. Factors affecting this performance include total flue height, cross sectional area, flue gas temperature, heat loss

Flue requirements must always be considered before installing a gas appliance. Stephen Parslow of Rheem provides advice.

through the flue material, flue route, the flue cowl or terminal and its location.

Preventing flue spillage Open flue units also require the room to be ventilated so that fresh air for combustion can enter to replace what is being expelled through the appliance and flue. Lack of ventilation can cause flue spillage, where POC will enter the room via the down draft diverter (DDD) on the top of the unit. Extractor fans, which may include cooker hoods, can also cause a problem by creating a negative air pressure within the room, leading to POC spilling into the room. Extra ventilation into the room may be required to overcome the effect of the extractor fan. The procedure to test for flue spillage can vary for each appliance type, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. AS/NZS 5601:1 2013 for gas installations Appendix R has details of testing and determining additional ventilation requirements.

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Above: Effect of high pressure zones on open flue performance. August/September 2019

PAGE TAG THEME TECHNICAL

Balanced flue systems will often terminate with a cowl against the outside wall of a building. This termination will not work for open flue installations. If an open flue cowl terminated in this location and wind caused high air pressure on that side of the building, POC would be discharged from the DDD above the appliance and into the room. This scenario is sometimes seen where an internal balanced flue gas hot water cylinder has been removed and replaced with an open flue model. If a balanced flue unit is no longer available, the flue system would have to be changed completely to ensure the termination complies with AS/NZS 5601:1 2013, which states: “Flue terminals or flue cowls shall be located to minimize entry of combustion products into any building and to minimize the effects of adverse draught on the performance of the gas appliance.” Normally this can only be achieved by running the flue internally or externally to above the roof height. Code also dictates that “the end of the flue shall be at least 500mm from the nearest part of the roof ”. This measurement does not include the cowl and must be measured to the end of the flue itself. Full details of open and balanced flue requirements can be found in AS/NZS 5601:1 2013 Section 6.

Before starting a job… Consideration of flue requirements must be taken into account at the start of any appliance installation. Fan assisted balanced flue models are often quite flexible as to the route to exit the

Diluted products

Down-draught air

Diluent air

Products and air

Products of combustion Normal conditions with correct flow

Productions of combustion Adverse conditions with flow reversed

Above: Open flue down draught diverter (DDD) operation.

building. Open flue systems are not so forgiving. If the open flue design is not carefully considered, the installation may not comply and may also present a hazard to life or property. Manufacturers’ websites and manuals will have full product specifications and the PGDB website at www.pgdb.co.nz allows access for all registered installers to the Standards New Zealand information required. It’s worth doing a little homework before starting a job to ensure a successful outcome. ■ About the author: Stephen Parslow is Technical and Training Officer at Rheem New Zealand Ltd.

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TECHNICAL THEME

Ventilation of open flued appliances Energy Safety provides NZ Plumber readers with advice on ensuring ventilation requirements are met when installing and servicing open flued gas appliances. TO WORK CORRECTLY, open flued gas appliances require ventilation in the room in which they are installed. AS/NZS 5601.1 provides ventilation requirements in 2.6.2 and 2.6.5. In the same Standard, 6.3, 6.4 and Appendix R provide information to work out when fixed ventilation must be installed in a room to enable a gas appliance to have sufficient clean air.

Testing for adequate ventilation When you have a large enough room size, the Standard allows you to rely on adventitious ventilation when installing open flued gas appliances. If you are relying on this, you should be looking around the house for ventilation fans, ventilation systems, range hoods and extractor fans. Remember, the ventilation world is constantly changing and there are now systems that use heat exchangers as well as taking make-up air from the outside air. Gas and heat pump central heaters can do the same things. To ensure make-up air is entering the room, you should close doors and windows and get the appliance and flue hot by running it on high for 10 minutes, before draft testing the flue

AND the air intakes for the room. A smoke match is a visual way to see the air movement. Following this, you need to turn on all negative pressure fans in the building with the internal doors open, and check these fans don’t cause the make-up air or the flue to stall. Then you need to turn off these fans and turn on all the positive pressure fans in the property with the internal doors open and check these fans don’t cause the make-up air or the flue to stall. You then need to do it again with all fans operating (positive and negative). After this you need to carry out testing with other gas appliances in the house operating. You may also need to take a woodburner into account.

Energy Safe Victoria. www.esv.vic.gov.au

Servicing considerations

Above: Diagram of open flued vs room sealed heaters. 30

August/September 2019

You also need to be aware of the ventilation requirements when you service an appliance. Consider what is new in the building and if anything has been taken out. If you did the initial install, how has the rest of the house changed? If you haven’t seen the installation before, start again with the ventilation requirements. ■

Raising industry awareness The work of ensuring there is adequate ventilation in relation to any gas installation is defined as a part of gasfitting by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act. Energy Safety is working with industry to make electricians and other trades aware of the issues outlined in this article, and the need to consult with a gasfitter for gas appliances as well as being aware of woodburning appliances.

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TECHNICAL THEME

Gas Standards update Gasfitting specialist John DeBernardo gives an update on the joint Australia/New Zealand gas installation Standard. Proposed revisions for AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 A third routine revision is underway for AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 Gas Installations – General installations. A number of updates are being considered to improve various safety elements within the Standard, and some of those have been driven by recent fire events that have occurred in Australia. These include potential changes to the applications of composite pipe above ground and inside buildings, alterations

Discussing Standards development Representatives at the Energy Sector Forum in March, facilitated by Energy Safety-WorkSafe and Standards New Zealand, discussed current issues for Standards and potential future approaches. Standards New Zealand, which develops Standards, became a unit within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in 2016. Since this date, Standards New Zealand and Standards Australia have worked together wherever possible to develop joint Standards or adopt existing international Standards. Whilst it can be beneficial to align Standards across the Tasman, it can make the development process more cumbersome. It can also be an expensive exercise for Standards committee members, who volunteer their time and expertise, and are regularly required to travel to Australia for meetings. The adequacy of Standards funding

to the requirements for fire resistant construction and facing materials in commercial kitchens, and increased requirements for the protection of combustible surfaces in kitchens.

by Energy Safety was discussed at the Forum, as well as the need for increased industry participation in Standards, particularly among younger generations. Forum members also raised concerns about the visibility of Standards New Zealand since it was absorbed into MBIE, and the need for it to provide continuing leadership and training for committee members. Consumers and industry currently have to pay to read the majority of Standards in print and online format (though registered gasfitters can freely access AS/NZS 5601 in the trade log-in at www. pgdb.co.nz), and there is a public drive to see Standards available to everyone, either for free—especially where they impact consumer safety—or at a reasonable cost. With the constantly changing landscape of new and emerging technologies, the Forum also discussed the need for resilience to be built into Standards for a longer-term perspective.

Proposed revisions for AS/NZS 5601.2:2013 A fourth routine revision is underway for AS/NZS 5601.2:2013 – Gas installations – LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes. This update will look at clearances for gas cylinders on mobile applications, such as caravans and food trucks, largely driven by the number of new specialised installations of these types appearing in both New Zealand and Australia There will also be future changes to this Standard relating to Standards Australia’s ‘Safe and Connect’ project, which will change Australian leisure cylinder POL fittings to QCC valves. ■

About the author: John DeBernardo is on the joint Australia/New Zealand Committee AG-006 for gas installation Standard AS/NZS 5601. The AG-006 committee comprises around 28 members, with three from New Zealand. A Certifying Plumber and Gasfitter, John is Managing Director of Wellington-based nationwide consultancy service Gas Safely Ltd and a member of the national Master Plumbers Board. He is also Chair of NZPM Group Ltd and a member of the NZ Gas Sector Board.

TECHNICAL PAGE THEME TAG

Non-compliant or unsafe? Energy Safety discusses the difference between a non-compliant gas installation and an unsafe one—plus what to do if you come across an immediately dangerous situation. Immediately dangerous situations The Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010 (GSMR) require that immediately dangerous situations are reported to Energy Safety. If practitioners come across an immediately dangerous situation, they are required to: • tell the owner or operator; and • notify Energy Safety. This applies whether or not they make the situation safe.

Safety obligations Regulation 9 of the of the GSMR sets out general obligations for safety. It

states that a person may not use or allow another person to use a gas installation if is unsafe. It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly to do so. It is important to understand that non-compliance with the current AS/ NZS 5601 installation standards is not necessarily unsafe. You also have to consider when the work was done, as the GSMR are not retrospective. If the installation doesn’t comply with the current installation standard, it doesn’t mean it needs to be upgraded to suit the current standards.

Safe vs unsafe The GSMR define what is safe and unsafe and they are not mirror images. ‘Safe’ is where there is no significant risk of harm or damage and ‘unsafe’ is where there is a significant risk of serious harm or significant damage. This means that there is a spectrum of safety from safe through to unsafe. At one end, an installation that is built in accordance with the GSMR is considered to be safe, whilst at the other end, there

Above: Notify Energy Safety of an immediately dangerous situation using the Installation Fault Notice Form at energysafety.govt.nz

is criteria set out in the GSMR on what is deemed to be unsafe.

Non-compliant installations Non-compliant work is somewhere in between. There is no duty on an owner to do anything about a non-compliant installation. It is only an offence for a person to knowingly or recklessly use, or allow another person to use, an unsafe installation. There is no duty on a gasfitter to report a non-compliant installation to Energy Safety. ■

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August/September 2019

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Photograph courtesy of Stuff.

Peanut butter plumbing

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Likened to the magical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the newly launched Pic’s Peanut Butter World combines factory and public viewing experience in one. Matthew Lowe talked to the plumbers involved. WHAT DO PEANUT butter and fish have in common? According to plumber Blair Ferguson, the factories where they are prepared share plenty of similarities—and he should know. The team at Blair Ferguson Plumbing in Nelson worked on the new Pic’s Peanut Butter World, which opened its doors to the public in February. “With its big volume pipes and washdown areas, the Pic’s factory is similar to fish processing factories we have worked on,” he says. “Quick recovery of hot water and drains that will cope with all the washdown are important elements for these kind of facilities where food is being produced.”

Rapid business growth

Photograph courtesy of Pic’s.

Pic’s employs 42 people at the 3,500sq m purpose-built site in the Nelson suburb of Stoke, and the general public can watch products being made from viewing platforms overlooking the working factory.

“This is place where our consumers and producers come together,” explains company founder Pic Picot, who started making peanut butter to sell at local markets in 2007. The business has grown rapidly since its first year of operation, when Pic roasted peanuts in a concrete mixer heated by a Bunsen burner and sold 400 jars. It is now one of the premier peanut butter brands in New Zealand and sold worldwide. Blair Ferguson Plumbing started talking with Pic’s almost two years ago about the factory and Blair was involved in all the design of the domestic and factory plumbing, and their requirements for water flows. “I did their last factory as well and, while they do not need a huge amount of plumbing, the big requirements at both sites have been for high-flow hot and cold water, and high-flow drainage for washdown areas. “The first factory was retrofitted as the company grew—and the growth of Pic’s has been massive, which is why I am excited to have been part of the new premises and able to facilitate what the company needs moving forward.”

quick recovery of hot water and drains that will cope with all the washdown are important elements for these kind of facilities

Opposite: Pic’s founder Pic Picot says the new site is a place “where our consumers and producers come together”. Above: Pic’s has grown rapidly since its small beginnings in 2007. August/September 2019

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Photograph courtesy of Pic’s.

Above: Staff from Tim Miller Plumbing laid about 4km of piping for the heating and cooling systems for the project.

Above: A funky customer bathroom at the factory and visitor centre.

Above: The building's insulated slab is uncommon for industrial premises such as this.

it’s important to get designs right because the last thing you want to be doing on site is having to finalise fresh decisions Besides plumbing work to help with peanut butter production, he and his team of four plumbers were also responsible for installing a commercial kitchen for the on-site café, staff showers and what a Pic’s spokeswoman calls its “funky customer bathrooms”. “The design they wanted lined up with the compliance, so it was a pretty seamless process once we were on site,” says Blair. “It’s important to get those designs right because the last thing you want to be doing on site is having to finalise fresh decisions—so we made sure we got a lot of things ironed out early on.”

Efficient heating and cooling Another Nelson company, Tim Miller Plumbing, was involved 36

August/September 2019

with installing the heating and cooling systems at the factory. Director Tim Miller praises the efficiency of the new building, which has an insulated slab that he says is not commonly found on such industrial premises. “We were running pipes for the heat exchange and put in about four kilometres of pipework under the floor, and it is an insulated slab so it’s a pretty high-tech building,” Tim says. “We were working across the whole build because we had to put in the underfloor heating before the slab went down and then we were back connecting it all up near the end of the build. “It’s a pretty cool building and it’s been a pleasure to work on it.”

Celebrating whimsy Pic’s Peanut Butter World was designed by Simon Hall of JTB Architects, with the building project led by Coman Construction. “[It] is designed to capture the imagination and celebrate all things whimsical,” says Simon. “It can be likened to the factory in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but with peanut butter. “Pic has an infectious enthusiasm for architecture and all things different and playful. Working with Pic to create his dream factory has been a fantastic process and it’s an exciting building for Nelson Tasman.” This year Pic’s expects to “squish” about 1,500 tonnes of nuts, sourced from growers in Queensland, Australia, and to produce about 3.5 million jars of peanut butter. ■

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NUTS & BOLTS

Call for Legionella management New Zealand has the highest reported incidence of Legionnaires’ disease in the world, according to a new study report—and Master Plumbers wants action. NZ Plumber takes a closer look. MASTER PLUMBERS IS urging the Government to put appropriate measures in place to detect and manage Legionella bacteria in our homes, apartments, schools, rest homes and hospitals. “We want the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment [MBIE] to introduce mandatory nationwide water sample testing in all high-risk facilities, including childcare centres, retirement villages, rest homes and hospitals—both privately and publicly owned,” says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. His comments come on the back of a new Otago University study, which has found New Zealand has the highest reported incidence of Legionnaires’ Disease in the world. A severe form of pneumonia caused by bacteria, Legionnaires’ can be deadly. Legionella longbeachae, commonly found in soil and compost, was behind the majority of reported cases (63%) in the study, with Legionella pneumophila responsible for almost 22%. Naturally occurring in lakes and streams, Legionella pneumophila can also 38

August/September 2019

grow and spread in artificial water systems, such as plumbing networks—particularly in pipes with low flow rates, in shower fittings, and in systems where little or no maintenance has been carried out. People can contract Legionnaires’ by breathing in small droplets of water containing the bacteria. Vulnerable members of the community, such as the elderly and very young, are particularly at risk. “As well as mandatory inspections, nationally consistent and regulated

maintenance programmes should be put in place,” says Greg. “New Zealand’s Building Code is currently lagging behind Ministry of Health guidelines, which recommend testing every six months for high-risk situations.” There is currently no requirement in the Building Code for such testing. “As this study shows, you don’t know what you’re dealing with until you start performing the right tests and analysing samples,” he adds. “Once you have that information, you’re better equipped to find

The causal chain How Legionnaires’ Disease is contracted Legionella in water source

Legionella enters building water system

Amplification to high concentrations

Above: The causal chain.

Development of disease

Inhalation by susceptible host

Aerosolization of water

NUTS & BOLTS

the best way to address the issue.” For building owners, the best way to know if they have safe water is to have water samples regularly taken and tested by someone trained in doing so. Householders can take simple steps to protect themselves against Legionella pneumophila in their home’s water supply by making sure their hot water heating system is set to at least 60°C at the tank. Legionella bacteria loves a warm, moist environment. Showers that are not used regularly should be run each week to prevent stagnant water sitting in pipes. Shower roses and aerators should also be kept free of scale. ■ ‘The burden of Legionnaires’ disease in New Zealand (LegiNZ): a national surveillance study’, published in June, is available on The Lancet website: www. thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/ PIIS1473-3099(19)30113-6/fulltext

Legionella hazards Legionella can live and grow in biofilm, a layer of micro-organisms that form a slimy layer on the inner surface of pipework and other water distribution system components where low flow or stagnation occur. The ideal temperature growth range for Legionella bacteria is 20-50°C. At 60°C, they die within 32 minutes and at 65°C in two minutes. Aerosol hazards • Showers • Flushing toilet • Taps running over a basin • Fountains • Spas • Evaporative coolers • Humidifiers • Nebulisers

•

Equipment producing aerosols, mists or droplets from stored water sources Potting mix

Other hazards • Hot and cold water storage tanks • Water heaters • Water-hammer arrestors • Pipes, valves and fittings • Dead legs in pipework • Expansion tanks • Water filters • Electronic and manual taps • Aerators • Flow restrictors • Eyewash stations • Ice machines • Medical devices (eg, CPAP machines, hydrotherapy equipment, bronchoscopes, heater-cooler units)

A specialist’s view “Keep the water clean, keep the cold water cold, keep the hot water hot and keep the water flowing.” This was Kelvin Slade’s Legionella mantra in his presentation to the 2019 NZ Plumbing Conference. Kelvin, who runs Slade Bros Plumbing in Brisbane, is an expert in Legionella bacteria management and treatment in water systems, having travelled the world researching legislation, training and best practice on being awarded a 2016 Churchill Fellowship. “Legionella pneumophila is known to cause most water-related Legionella infections that lead to serious illness,” he said, noting that it mostly affects older adults (50+) , smokers, alcoholics and people with a weakened immune system—with males three times more at risk than females. “The fatality rate for Legionnaires’ Disease is currently around 10 percent and, despite the availability of antibiotics, a certain number of deaths are recorded each year in otherwise healthy people.” Kelvin considers the UK’s Approved Code of Practice L8 to be the ‘gold standard’ for Legionella management, with comprehensive guidance documents for both the healthcare and non-healthcare sectors. Technical Memorandums for healthcare premises include guidance on

design, installation, commissioning and operational management. There’s no silver bullet when it comes to managing and treating Legionella bacteria, he said. Instead, control programmes should be based on a ‘multi-barrier’ approach, as recommended by the World Health Organisation. “Monitoring and management are what is needed. Water Risk Management Plans are vital tools and need to be highly individualised to each facility.” In terms of treatment, a combination of systemic and localised treatments are generally the most effective, as this will treat the whole or part of a system as well as water passing through one or more specific points in the system. Treatments include chlorination, copper/ silver ionisation, UV light, ozonation and point of use or inline filtration—but a good understanding of the different options is key to avoid unintended consequences. “Point of use and inline filtration are used as the first line of defence around the world but they do not replace good water risk management practices,” says Kelvin. “Knowledge and training are paramount.” Worldwide trends Facts and figures from Kelvin Slade’s presentation: • Most recent data published by the

•

Australian Health Department shows Australia had 365 reported cases of Legionellosis for the year ended December 2015. The Queensland government introduced new laws in 2017 that require the mandatory introduction of water risk management plans to control Legionella in healthcare facilities and state-owned aged care facilities. A report published in 2018 showed 170 of around 270 Queensland hospitals and aged care centres had tested positive for Legionella bacteria. In England, good Legionella management, including monthly reports, has seen a drop in the number of confirmed cases. In Europe, confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease grew year on year in the 2013-2017 period, with 8,624 across 28 countries in 2017. In the US, 5,000 cases of Legionnaires’ disease are reported each year (as of 2016), although it is believed the actual figures are as high as 25,000. There has been a 400% increase over the last 15 years, due to an ageing population, ageing infrastructure and misdiagnosis. Most outbreaks were in buildings with complex water systems.

August/September 2019

NUTS & BOLTS

Standards Spotlight

Joint decisions The importance of NZ being involved in Australian plumbing sector developments cannot be overstated, says Jon Lewis in this month’s column.

WHILST, FUNDAMENTALLY, PLUMBING practices do not appear to change, we live in an ever-evolving landscape. Products, standards and installation methods are constantly developing, which is why the Standards we use must keep pace. Master Plumbers’ advocacy role includes representation on the Australian Standards committee for the plumbing sector (WS-014), which meets regularly to consider amendments to AS/NZS 3500: 2018. Through this column, I aim to keep readers updated on any changes. This edition, I’d also like to update you on some other related activities that have taken place this year to date.

Lead in plumbing products

In May, while in Australia for a Standards meeting, I attended the Lead in Plumbing Products Forum. I was the only NZ representative at the forum, which was organised by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). The ABCB is taking an evidence-based approach to this issue and discussions centred around regulations and guidelines, and what is in the public interest. The importance of NZ being part of these discussions cannot be overstated. By aligning ourselves with Australia, we will show our commitment to reducing the lead content in plumbing products installed here. Otherwise, we face the risk of becoming a dumping ground for product that becomes non-compliant in Australia.

Drains installed at grade

The WS-014 committee meeting held over the ensuing two days saw the Australians coming to NZ. It has been many years since we have had a meeting on this side of the ditch and it gave us further opportunity to strengthen relations. Discussion centred on the current round of revisions to AS/ NZS 3500:2018, which is now cited in the Water Supplies and Foul Water sections of the Building Code. I will report on proposed changes when they are due out for public comment, at which time you can have your say. At this meeting, we were fortunate to have a presentation by Dr Steve Cummings relating to AS/NZS 3500.2.2018, clause 4.9.1: drains installed at grade. The Standard does not currently give minimum entry levels and the branch drain can be on grade. Steve talked about concerns regarding low water flow with horizontal swept junctions in house drains, and how the drain can be adversely affected by wastewater backflow when it has minimal grade. He presented a video with a clear drainage pipe assembly, showing how a low volume of water flow in drains and backflow into the branch drain can be a potential area of concern. This is an area I’m sure WS-014 will look into in future. The next meeting for WS-014 is in Sydney on 10 October. ■

How you can get involved From time to time, the WS-014 committee needs to call on people with specific areas of expertise. The same applies to potential changes to the NZ Building Code. If you believe you can assist, please don’t hesitate to email me: jon@lewisplumbing.co.nz

About the author: Jon Lewis runs The Lewis Plumbing Company in Rotorua. Jon is a Certifying Plumber and Certifying Drainlayer with over 30 years’ industry experience. He serves as a Director on the national Master Plumbers Board and represents Master Plumbers on Australian Standards committees WS-014 (overall plumbing sector) and WS-023 (backflow prevention).

Building system performance

In June, I joined fellow Kiwi members of WS-014 for a meeting at MBIE in Wellington. This was held a day ahead of New Zealand hosting a WS-014 committee meeting, and brought us together with team leaders from Standards NZ and the Building Performance and Engineering unit within MBIE’s Building System Performance (BSP) branch. It was also our first time meeting as a group with Ross Wakefield, the new Senior Advisor, Plumbing and Hydraulic Services, giving us the opportunity to discuss with him NZ’s involvement in the Australian Standards, the relevance of AS/NZS 3500 to the NZ Building Code, and the importance of MBIE being part of the group. It was great that Richard London of MBIE’s Building Performance and Engineering unit could be there and I’m sure it helped us all understand that we fundamentally want the same thing: the best for the PGD industry regarding building system performance. 40

August/September 2019

Standards news: Stop Press •

•

Water Supplies and Foul Water sections of the Building Code have been updated to cite the most recent (2018) AS/NZS 3500 plumbing and drainage standards. This will make it easier to show compliance with G13/AS1, G13/VM2, G13/AS2 and G13/AS3; G12/VM1, G12/AS1 and G12/AS2. Over 120 building Standards are now available for free download. The Standards can be accessed at www.standards.govt.nz/sponsored-standards/buildingstandards/

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NUTS & BOLTS

Hot water thermal efficiency Advice from the PGDB on designing a hot water system to maximise thermal efficiency.

WATER HEATING IN NZ makes up a significant amount of a household’s total energy bill. A poorly designed hot water system can cost the building occupier in extra energy, and the installation might not comply with New Zealand’s Building Code (NZBC).

NZBC clause H1—Energy Efficiency

NZBC H1 outlines the mandatory requirements for thermal efficiency. Concerning hot water systems, H1.3.4 states: Systems for the heating, storage, or distribution of hot water to and from sanitary fixtures or sanitary appliances must, having regard to the energy source used,— (b) be constructed to limit heat losses from storage vessels and from distribution systems; and (c) be constructed to facilitate the efficient use of hot water Therefore, when designing and/ or installing a plumbing system, consideration must be given to the distance hot water needs to travel to the outlet and how much heat will be lost in the process.

NZS 4305:1996

NZS 4305:1996 Energy Efficiency – Domestic type hot water systems, cited in H1, provides acceptable solutions for meeting the mandatory requirements of H1.3.4 (in clause 3 of 4305). It also outlines that water heaters should be located as close as practicable to the areas they service. Further to this, 4305 3.2.1 outlines that the pipe supplying the kitchen sink should not be more than a total volume of two litres. Table 5 in 4305 outlines the maximum pipe length to a kitchen sink 42

August/September 2019

is 12m for a pipe that has a nominal pipe size of 15mm and 7m for a nominal pipe size of 20mm.

Alternative solutions

Since NZS 4305 came out in 1996, a number of new types of water supply pipes have come into the market. Therefore, 4305 may not have considered the individual characteristics of the pipes and the thermal efficiency some new pipe systems have. If a plumber is not installing the pipework as per 4305, they can use an alternative solution so long as the

installation meets the mandatory requirements of the Building Code (eg, NZBC H1). For consented building work, the plumber must get approval from the council for an alternative solution before they do the work. There can be several ways to meet the requirements of H1. However, before a plumber installs the hot water system, it is important to consider all aspects of the design. This includes considering the location of the water heater, pipe type and the volume of a hot water supply pipe and insulation. ■

NUTS & BOLTS

Technical Q&A Got a technical issue? In this new column, technical support specialist Rod Miller addresses common queries. Send your questions for Rod Miller to the Ed: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

Q: WaterMark isn’t mandatory in NZ, so how am I supposed to tell if a product is reputable or fit for purpose? A: With so many products coming into the country—some

through our reputable merchants and others through the back door—it is really important you make an informed decision on what product you are going to use for any installation. Spend a couple of hours researching a product before using or recommending it to a client. This can save days of anguish if it is installed and causes issues at sign-off time. If you are not happy with a product, don’t install it. You can always offer an alternative.

Q: I am being made to jump through hoops by the local drainage inspector on a job— and I don’t agree with what he is telling me is required. What should I do?

A: I get a lot of communications about plumbing and drainage

inspections, most of them very critical of the lack of knowledge from some inspectors in our industry. In some cases, not only are the decisions incorrect but the inspector is not prepared to discuss the issues. There is only one solution and that is the introduction of self-certification for plumbers and drainlayers. Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace and the team are working tirelessly on progressing this but unfortunately the Minister currently has other priorities. Self-certification would speed up the entire building process from planning consent to final sign off, and free up inspection staff to carry out work backlogs. ■

Master Plumbers members can contact Rod Miller at no charge on the Technical Helpline. Contact details in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Servicing the stargazers When Big Sky Stargazing needed a wastewater treatment system for their Mt Cook tourist venture, Austin Bluewater had no problem meeting the challenges of the site.

THE BIG SKY Stargazing Tour attracts visitors from all parts of the world. The main highlight is the visit to the outdoor stargazing viewing area within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve—the world’s largest dark sky reserve. Austin Bluewater’s involvement with Big Sky Stargazing came about because the installation of the facilities connected to Big Sky Stargazing, located at Mt Cook airport, required a high level of expertise—both to deal with the conditions and to meet the needs of the large number of tourists who take the tour. “The soils in the area were category one, which means they were very alluvial (light and shingly) so difficult to handle,” explains Lew Austin.“What’s more, we had to be extremely careful to avoid the possibility of any contaminants leaching into the ground.” Working closely with Railton Contracting and TMC Consulting Engineers, Lew and the team at Austin Bluewater designed and manufactured a three-tank system, which included a polylock filter to help with the biological treatment within the system. This was carefully installed by Railtons, and the ground repatriated to create as little disturbance as possible. “Whilst this was an extremely difficult and technically demanding installation, the combination of our robust products 44

August/September 2019

Top: The three-tank Austin Bluewater system arriving on site. Above: Installing the system in the challenging alluvial soils. The system needs to cater for large numbers of tourists to Mt Cook’s Big Sky Stargazing Tour.

and the excellent support from the team involved meant that the entire process went very smoothly and everyone was very happy with the end result,” says Lew. ■ Austin Bluewater are expanding and are currently looking for more distributors throughout New Zealand. If you are interested, please phone Paul Newton on 027 528 4838 or email paul@austinbluewater.co.nz

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Q&A with Lew Austin

Q: When did you first get involved in the industry? A: I was born into a family with over 100 years’ experience of drainage pipe manufacturing and, believe it or not, I actually started working in the industry with my father when I was just six years old! Probably no surprise then that my first job after leaving school was working for a hydraulic engineering firm.

Q: How did you get into wastewater treatment specifically? A: Years later, when I moved to a lifestyle block with my young family, I became concerned about the groundwater implications from the old-style septic tank and domestic wells on my block. So, being a typical Kiwi bloke, I retreated to my garage workshop and tinkered with ideas around improving the performance of the septic treatment system on my own property. This eventually led to the formation of my own wastewater treatment company in 1991.

Q: Did the hydraulic engineering experience prove useful? A: Very! It was here that I learnt the fundamentals of water — pumping, irrigation etc — and this knowledge was very useful for my future endeavours. Even when I changed jobs I couldn’t seem to get away from pipes and water. In later years, I installed some of Canterbury’s first large irrigators.

Q: How did that work out? A: With a lot of hard work, research and the support of some really great people, including my family and other mentors, I built this business into a highly successful national company, eventually selling to a major national corporate.

Canterbury born and bred Lew Austin talks about his many years of work in the wastewater treatment industry.

Q: Wouldn’t that have been a good time to kick back and relax? Probably! But I’m one of those people who is always looking for a new challenge. So I spent the next few years establishing a commercial development in Rolleston, and also starting a concrete precast business. But, ultimately, my thoughts returned to wastewater treatment. Q: Is that when you decided to start Austin Bluewater? Yes. I travelled to the USA, Europe and Australia and realised that new technology was now available, resulting in a better and more efficient product. It is these new innovations and technological advancements that form the backbone of the Austin Bluewater.

REAL LIVES

Confident communicator

Proving that communication skills are as important as good workmanship in the plumbing trade, Masterlink apprentice Ben McCulloch is a standout with customers. NZ Plumber caught up with Ben at his host firm Jackson Plumbing (Nelson) Ltd. BEN MCCULLOCH SAYS his plumbing apprenticeship has taught him many things, including how to deal with people. “I used to be quite reserved and quiet, but it has made me more confident in myself and my skills.” When Ben’s boss, Grant Jackson at Jackson Plumbing (Nelson), was looking for a new apprentice in 2015, Ben’s CV stood out among 40 applicants. “From the start, we noticed his calming influence in the work environment,” says Grant. “His positive nature and great manners make him popular with the customers and we constantly receive great feedback.”

Keen to get a qualification

A year earlier, Ben had moved to Nelson from Koromiko, near Picton, where he’d been working at his dad’s boat shop, to take up a workshop job at Haven PleasureBoats. Keen to get a qualification under his belt, he asked them for an apprenticeship but, to the company’s regret, the timing wasn’t right. When he saw the Trade Me advert for a plumbing and drainlaying apprentice, he decided to apply. “I had no idea what I was getting myself into,” he says, “but I had practical skills, having worked with tools, and I was keen to learn.” Now nearing the end of his Masterlink apprenticeship, and about to sit his registration exams, Ben is glad he chose this career path. “I’d recommend it for the variety of work and the knowledge it gives you. Each day is different, there’s always a problem to solve and you get to meet a lot of people. Plumbing teaches you to think logically about anything you do.”

Stepping up to the plate

Grant says Ben’s problem solving and time-keeping skills have been an asset to the company, which provides maintenance, renovation and new build services for the Nelson Tasman region. “One of our tradesmen had moved on and Ben stepped straight in and filled the void,” he says. “During the past year, he has been in sole charge of the region’s Oceania Retirement Villages refurb project and has organised the entire project from start to finish without a hitch, with junior staff under him. He runs a very tight ship on the job.” Working with a good team of people was a priority for Ben when he was job-hunting, and Jackson Plumbing (Nelson) fitted the bill. With Grant at the helm, Deb in the office and three 46

August/September 2019

Above: Masterlink apprentice Ben McCulloch, overall 2019 Plumbing World Scholarship winner, at his Nelson workplace.

field staff, it’s a small and friendly place to work. Ben works alongside Aaron, a qualified tradesperson, and fellow Masterlink apprentice Mike. The firm always has one or two apprentices coming through and, being a member of Master Plumbers, Grant decided to give the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink apprentice scheme a go. “Regional Manager Sam Timlin is very approachable,” says Ben. “I can call him about any issues or queries and he has my interests at heart.”

REAL LIVES

He also likes the fact that his Christchurch block course accommodation is sorted and paid for—“I just turn up and say my name”—and a mileage allowance provided for driving down to the polytech.

Taking school students under his wing

Now 24, Ben is enjoying passing on some of his own knowledge to Gateway students from local colleges, who come to the company for work experience. “He takes them under his wing and guides them through some of the simpler jobs to give them an idea of what a plumber does on a day-to-day basis,” says Grant. “Two of those students now have plumbing apprenticeships with local Nelson companies.” Ask him what work he enjoys most, and Ben says there’s a plus side to every job—even drain clearing, as it means having a workmate along with you. And every challenge is something to learn from. The jobs are always shared out, so they rarely do a whole day of the same thing. “I am proud of the end product of some of the houses we have been involved with—but also the overall service we provide, from core drilling, digger excavating, drain clearing, concrete cutting and general plumbing,” says Ben. His dependability, time-keeping skills, eye for detail and organised approach earned Ben the overall 2019 Plumbing World Scholarship, presented each year to five high-achieving Masterlink apprentices at the NZ Plumbing Awards. ■

Above: Ben at work on a drain-clearing job. He says he likes the variety of each day, whether it be core drilling, digger excavating, drain clearing, concrete cutting or general plumbing.

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INDUSTRY TALK

Farewell to John Seamer

Our condolences to the family of John Seamer, who passed away in July. We are sad to report that John Seamer passed away on 27 July, at the age of 82. Throughout the course of his long career, John demonstrated huge commitment to the plumbing industry. He ran J Seamer Plumbing Ltd for 35 years before going on to set up the roofing division at Aquaheat and later working in a technical and project management capacity for a number of roofing companies. John was a dedicated member of Master Plumbers, participating on the executive committee of the Hutt Valley Wairarapa Association for many years and serving a term as Association President in 1986. John was also a member of the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board for 10 years,

during which time he was an examiner for the trades cert exam. Never afraid to voice his opinion on industry issues, John firmly believed that everyone should have a say on matters that that could affect the future of the sector. Master Plumbers send deepest condolences to John’s extended family. Right: John Seamer was awarded Life Membership of the Hutt Valley Wairarapa Master Plumbers Association in 2016.

Comradery and charity Child Cancer was this year’s chosen charity for Caroma’s annual CARC event. Caroma’s annual CARC (Caroma Accredited Research Customers) event was held in Central Otago earlier this year, with members competing in driving challenges at Highlands Motorsport Park, and archery, rifle range shooting and claybird shooting at Crossfire Wanaka, to raise money for their 2019 chosen charity—Child Cancer. In true CARC tradition, members showed comradery, charity and competitive spirit to raise $31,010 for Child Cancer. Representatives of CARC presented the Child Cancer team with a cheque at Child Cancer’s Auckland Family House.

Above: Representatives of CARC presenting the Child Cancer team with the cheque for $31,010 in June.

‘Disappointing’ flushable wipes judgement

Water New Zealand has expressed its disappointment at an Australian ruling that Kimberly-Clark didn’t break the law in marketing its wipes as flushable. Water New Zealand Technical Manager Noel Roberts says there is clear evidence that flushing nonflushable items such as wipes causes damage to the environment and puts public health at risk. “Wastewater overflows, caused by wipes, has closed at least two New Zealand beaches after sewage contamination occurred,” he says. That’s not to mention the cost to ratepayers, with an estimated $16m a year spent on unblocking pipes clogged with non-flushable products. Water New Zealand’s latest National Performance Review found that, since 2013-14, the number of sewage overflows occurring during dry weather blockages has increased fivefold. Dry weather blockages are directly linked to obstructions in pipes.

“We know that many wipes are labelled as flushable and, as a result, people mistakenly believe that they behave like toilet paper in the pipes. Unfortunately they do not break down in the same way as toilet paper,” says. “We need people to understand that flushing anything other than pee, poo and toilet paper damages sewerage systems and they cause costly clean ups. “That’s why it is extremely disappointing that a federal judge did not uphold the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission [ACCC] claims that consumers have been misled by false labelling.” Ironically, the judge said there was ample evidence that ‘wipe’ products generally are a significant management problem for municipal sewerage systems, as they impair the function of infrastructure and increase maintenance costs. August/September 2019 49

INDUSTRY TALK

Literacy & numeracy support

Registration exam support is now available for those who struggle with literacy and numeracy, dyslexia, English use, or severe anxiety. Over the past 10 months, the Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board (PGDB) been working with Literacy Aotearoa on an initiative that better tailors the PGDB registration exam options for people who may approach literacy and numeracy in a different way. A 20-person pilot programme, launched last September, resulted in positive feedback and exam pass rate percentages. Due to its success, the PGDB and Literacy Aotearoa have now announced a permanent programme of exam support options.

About the programme

The target audience • Those who struggle with literacy and numeracy; who may be dyslexic or challenged by the use of English; or who suffer from severe anxiety. Possible examination options • Extra time given and/or reader-writer assistance. • In some instances, an oral exam could be recommended in lieu of a written exam. Programme costs • Literacy Aotearoa will charge $387.50+GST per applicant. The PGDB’s standard exam fee will be charged for each written exam attempt ($350 inc GST).

• •

Fees for oral examinations will be charged on a cost recovery basis, where travel arrangements might affect costs. Fees for mentoring or learning support services offered/ recommended by Literacy Aotearoa or other parties may be payable if undertaken and no government or TEC funding is available.

Tradespeople who are interested in taking advantage of this programme should contact Literacy Aotearoa on 0800 900 999 and ask for Pete Davis. Alternatively, email pdavis@literacy.org.nz

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Have you Australian plumbing registered yet? stalwart honoured MPAQ Life Member Bill Watson has been recognised for a lifetime’s dedication to the plumbing industry in Australia.

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In the Australian Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June, Bill Watson was appointed as a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia (General Division) for his services to the plumbing industry. A Life Member of the Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ), Bill has dedicated over 45 years to the trade as an apprentice, employee, employer, business operator, industry regulatory representative, government board appointee and accredited trainer. He has contributed both at state level and national level through his participation on Master Plumbers Australia and New Zealand, of which he is currently a Director. He is also a current Councillor of MPAQ. “I would like to congratulate Bill on a lifetime of dedication and support in promoting our industry, which has seen so many tradespeople enjoy a better quality of life because of his contributions,” said MPAQ President Kent Vickers. Bill, who has employed and mentored over 20 apprentices, has provided extensive input into vocational education and training to address future skill needs—providing industry input into committees and workshops for the curriculum of pre-vocational and apprenticeship courses for the plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting industry. He was Chairman of the Queensland Plumbing Industry Council (PIC) and previously Chairman of the Plumbers and Drainers Licensing Board. He is also a member of the Complex Licensing Panel, which sits under the Queensland Building and Construction Commission, and is passionate about ensuring a best-practice occupational licensing system. Since the Awards were introduced in 1972, only a few plumbers have been awarded for services to our industry. Bill will be presented with his award at Government House in Canberra later this year.

Your destination for everything hot water • spare parts • installation guides • brochures • resource libraries • service manuals • compliance documents • trade promotions • mobile-friendly

Above: MPAQ Life Member Bill Watson has been acknowledged in this year’s Australian Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Brothers and sons REAL LIVES

One of 13 children, Wally Jaques joined his brothers in the construction trade—and passed on his passion to his son, and now his grandson. NZ Plumber spoke to Greg Jaques about this family of plumbers.

DISCUSSING THE DAYS of the Jaques Brothers construction company in Pahiatua, plumber Greg Jaques reels off a long list of uncles involved— Eddie, Terence, Jo, Owen, Peter, Bruce and Donald—plus his own dad Wally. The brothers set up the firm together shortly after the Second World War, and each brought their specific skills to the venture, as builders, joiners, plumbers, engineers and electricians. “They were known for their high standards and worked on some major construction projects including the admin building at Massey University, the transmission tower at Mount Kaukau in Wellington and large sewage treatment plants in Martinborough,” says Greg.

Priest or plumber?

Wally was one of the two plumbers at the firm and was 64 when he went on to train his own son in the trade. “I originally wanted to become a priest and my dad suggested I try a plumbing apprenticeship to see how that panned out,” recalls Greg. One seminary course later, he’d made up his mind to stay with plumbing. After several years working for companies in Wellington and Hawkes Bay, he set up his own Hastings-based business, Greg Jaques Plumbing and Drainage, in the late 1990s. “It was a lifestyle choice to be self-employed,” he says. “My wife Wendy and I have two children, Cameron and Georgia, and I wanted to be involved in their lives—coaching and supporting their school soccer teams, and just being there for them.”

Marking three generations

Now 22, Cameron has also decided to follow the family tradition, doing a plumbing and drainlaying apprenticeship through Masterlink at his dad’s business. Greg has a “delicious” photo taken by Wendy of Cameron as a young boy coming through a large concrete pipe with Greg and his father standing at the end. It’s a perfect souvenir of the three generations of

Above: Cam (left) and Greg Jaques with Lorraine Butcher at the Mico Hastings branch.

plumbers and Greg took it along to the Hastings Mico branch in May to mark another milestone. Lorraine Butcher was retiring after 35 years at the branch—and Greg wanted a photo taken with her and the picture to thank her for looking after all three Jaques family members during her time there.

All in the family

One of 13 children, Wally was a man of few words, says Greg, but everyone who worked at Jaques Brothers was like one of the family. “I recently visited one of the firm’s joiners at his retirement home. He remembered turning 21 and apologising that he couldn’t invite all the brothers to a party because he didn’t have much money. They all turned up anyway, with plenty of food and beer—and, apparently, they did the same at his wedding. “I thought it was an amazing story,” says Greg. “For them, work was family—they were all treated the same.” ■

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Auckland in action ON 4 JULY, Dale Lovell handed over the reins to Rohan MacMillan as President of the Auckland Master Plumbers. This was also the date of their July branch meeting, hosted by Methven. Around 35 members enjoyed a walk through the factory, with Methven putting on gourmet burgers. Above: Outgoing Auckland Master The group surprised Plumbers President Dale Lovell (right) Methven National presenting Methven National Plumbing Manager Craig Alexander with his Legend Plumbing Manager of the Industry award at the Methven Craig Alexander by factory tour. presenting him with a ‘Legend of the Industry’ award. At 67, Craig has been involved in the industry for almost 51 years—an impressive achievement by anyone’s standards. “I’m moving to three days a week at the end of the year, but I couldn’t retire completely as I’m passionate about what I do,” he says. Craig has worked for just three companies throughout his career. He has been at Methven for 13 years now, working as a Territory Manager until taking up his current role in 2017. He’s always willing to share his knowledge with plumbers who call or email and is on the road several months a year getting in front of plumbers at the CPD trade shows. This October, Methven will launch the new Fastflow II, which delivers 30% more flow compared to Fastflow original and other new benefits that make the job easier for plumbers. Craig will be taking his Fastflow II training around the country to tell plumbers all about it. With Methven a gold sponsor of Plumbing World’s Young Plumber of the Year, Craig is a familiar presence at the competitions. “We enjoy providing challenges for the contestants as Methven is a great believer in getting young people enthused about a plumbing career.”

Melbourne Cup in November The Auckland branch likes to hold three to four events per year, and aims to tie them in with a factory tour or guest speaker. “The big one is the Melbourne Cup, where you can take your better half to a full day of food and drink for approximately $50 per head,” says Rohan. “You can even pay it through Mico or Plumbing World points. There is no better way to get some brownie points from your wife or girlfriend for such an economical price for the tight-fisted plumbers that we are. “Of course it would not be possible without all our legend

ASSOCIATIONS & BRANCHES

A recent Methven factory tour for the Auckland Master Plumbers marked the handover date to new President Rohan MacMillan.

supporters who make this day happen. This year will be the third or fourth year we have done it. Hands down the best bit is just mingling with other plumbers and discussing good and bad issues. Just talking to other plumbers will be 10 times more beneficial than an afternoon in the office or on the tools, I can guarantee you.” ■

Why it’s worth going to meetings Rohan says branch interaction can be a sticking point in Auckland, given its size and geography. “With Auckland being the largest (and best looking, best rugby team and generally all-round engine house of the nation etc etc), it is hard for someone to get to the North Shore from Pukekohe at 5pm on a Thursday—or any day for that matter. “A lot of people have young families and other commitments, and the last thing on their mind is going to hang out with a bunch of crusty old men who they perceive they have nothing in common with. The funny thing is, these crusty old men have so much information to share if you just open your ears. It will save you years of mistakes in your plumbing careers.”

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August/September 2019 53

SMART BUSINESS

Exit planning advice Do you have a plan in place for when you retire? Having purchased a number of existing businesses to grow its branch network, Foleys offers some advice on how to be exit ready.

FOLEYS, A PLUMBING, gasfitting, drainlaying, electrical and mechanical business with its head office in Dunedin, has been in the fortunate position to be able to assist some business owners with exiting and succession planning. Since 1934, when the first generation of Foleys commenced operations in Dunedin, Foleys has grown to a company of 10 branches, with four generations of the Foley family working in the business.

Three purchasing scenarios In the last two years Foleys has acquired three new branches, all with different strategies. The Ranfurly branch was bought in 2017. It was an existing business, in an area that Foleys was interested in expanding into and, through planning, Foleys had identified a tradesman in a different location ready to step up to branch management. Twizel was purchased in December 2017, again as an existing business in a location where Foleys could see huge potential. The owner had identified one of his staff who was ready for the step up to managing the branch, while retaining all current tradespeople. The latest acquisition, and the first in the North Island, is in Palmerston North. This presented a different scenario again, with the owners of the Palmerston North branch continuing to work in the branch for an agreed period while developing an existing tradesman as the future branch manager.

August/September 2019

Get your business in order With so many businesses facing the same decisions around how and when to exit, it’s helpful to prepare early and get the business in order. Here are some tips to help: • Get all your financial records in good shape. This will help a prospective buyer make a fully-informed decision and assist them with understanding the value of your business • Know the value of your stock and assets • Have a good understanding of your customers and product mix • Ensure you understand or have an idea of your business’s value • Have a clear idea about how long you wish to stay in the business after selling • Start to think about identifying people or other companies who might take over or purchase your business • If you intend to remain in the business post-sale, be open to embracing change.

If you wish to look after your great staff, who have helped your business to be successful, identifying a company that has core values in line with your thinking is critical. You need to be sure that, as you exit your business, your staff are seen as a key part of a successful transition, and are valued as highly as you have valued them. ■

Facts & figures • •

•

• •

90,000+ NZ businesses are owned by people 55 years of age or older 44% of jobs are provided by small businesses (50 or fewer employees). Three out of four business owners are expecting to sell their business to fund their retirements 30% don’t believe their business would survive without them 47% don’t have an exit plan in place.

Dismissal: follow process Two recent employment law cases highlight why you need to do right by your people, as Lisa Duston explains.

Not consulting with employees on a new role The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) has ordered an employer to pay $106,000 to husband and wife employees who were both dismissed with no proper process. The employer presented each employee with new employment agreements for lesser roles than their current agreements and demanded these be signed. Both refused to sign and were then dismissed with no process. Even if a process had been followed, there was no justification for dismissal, as changes to employment agreements can’t be unilaterally imposed by an employer. The ERA has awarded over $62,000 for lost wages since the dismissals, plus $8,600 for unpaid wages from the period when they were employed and $30,000 compensation for hurt and humiliation suffered. It also warned the company directors they could be held personally liable and subject to imprisonment if the company did not pay the damages awarded.

SMART BUSINESS

Dismissal on performance with no process

The ERA has upheld a personal grievance claim for an unjustified dismissal. The employee was sacked for repeated errors at work. However, the ERA held there was no proper investigation, as the employer treated the allegations as fact rather than investigating if they actually occurred. The ERA awarded $18,000 compensation, reduced from $20,000 because of the employee’s behaviour for swearing at a manager during the process. She was also awarded two months’ lost wages. The employee was also awarded $5,000 for receiving an unjustified final warning on a previous occasion, because no proper performance process had been carried out that would have justified any final warning.

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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SMART BUSINESS

Preventing customer complaints

Unexpected costs are one of the biggest causes of complaints about plumbing services. NZ Plumber has advice on how to avoid having upset customers.

BEING TRANSPARENT WITH customers about your costs is possibly the most important thing you can do to avoid complaints (assuming your workmanship is up to scratch, of course). No one enjoys receiving an invoice that includes a nasty surprise, such as additional travel charges or higher after-hours rates. Jobs that end up costing way more than the estimate are equally frustrating for a customer if they are not kept informed. Every business operates differently, which is why it is crucial to spell out clearly how your particular price structure works.

Good communication from start to finish

Communication about costs begins at the initial customer call. If someone asks you to quote on a job, let them know about any fee to do so. Do you provide free quotes? Or is the first hour free? Do you charge if the quote isn’t accepted? Do you waive the call-out fee if it’s a significant job? If you generally provide free quotes but charge for more complex on-site investigation and diagnosis, make sure customers are aware of this too.

Written quotes and estimates

A written quote is always recommended, whatever the cost of the job (and a legal requirement for jobs costing $30,000 or more including GST). The quote should detail the specifics of the job, how long you expect it to take, the total cost and a cost breakdown. This breakdown should itemise costs for labour, materials, travel and any additional costs. If, for some reason, something is not covered in the total cost, ensure you note this. Once the customer has accepted the quote, you can’t charge more unless you both agree to a variation to the contract. The quote is also the place to note your payment terms and conditions before you start the work. If you’re providing an estimate instead of a fixed quote, you’re best to put this in writing too—and bear in mind that your final price should generally be within 10-15% of the estimate. It’s a good idea to agree in writing with the customer that you will contact them as soon as possible if it looks like the final price will be higher than the estimate. That way they can choose to stop the work before it gets too expensive, and you have paperwork confirming this.

Put your pricing on your website

Your business website is a great place to display your price structure. By setting out your costs clearly and simply, you can direct callers to your website to ensure they understand your charges up front. It will save you explaining the same 56

August/September 2019

your business website is a great place to display your price structure information to every potential customer, and it will also ensure nothing gets missed off. So, what costs should you include on your website? Here are some suggestions: •

• •

Hourly rate: As well as listing your standard hourly rate, include your charge if the job goes beyond an hour (eg, if it takes one hour and 20 minutes, do you break down the hour into 15-minute parts?) Minimum charge: If the total job takes, says, half an hour, will you charge the full hour? Quotes: List any call-out cost for providing quotes. If you generally do free quotes but charge for complex on-site investigation, explain this on your website. Urgent jobs: List any call-out costs for urgent short notice, after-hours and/or public holiday work Travel charge: List any charge for travelling to and from the job (GPS tracking is useful here should you ever need to verify total time spent).

SMART BUSINESS

5 top tips

Useful websites

Here are some top tips to help you avoid customer complaints when you're doing a job for them. 1. Keep customers updated Problems with parts arriving or getting back to finish their job? Be proactive and let them know. 2. Return calls and emails. Set a reasonable response timeframe as a goal (eg, 24 hours). Don’t avoid people if they are unhappy — it just makes the situation worse. 3. Be polite. Don’t send rude or aggressive emails or messages. If in doubt, sit on your response for 24 hours and then review. Is there a constructive way to make your point? Or is there someone else in the office who should be handling communication with this customer? 4. Be transparent. If customers request more information about your invoice or your charges, provide it to them. If you don’t, some customers may see this as an excuse not to pay your bill, and you’ll end up wasting time and money trying to get them to. 5. Keep good records. Make sure you’ve got records of quotes (preferably always in writing), travel times (eg, GPS tracking reports), emails and notes of any discussions or changes to plans. If things do go wrong, you’ll have all that information to refer to.

• • •

If, despite doing all this, you still end up in a dispute with a customer, contact Master Plumbers on 0800 502 102 to see how we can help (service available to members only).

Remember to show whether these costs include or exclude GST. You can also choose to include actual dollar rates by each, though this isn’t essential.

Taking apprentices on a job?

Apprentices need to undertake a variety of work as part of their on-job training. However, some customers question why they are being charged for two people instead of one. Before your qualified tradesperson turns up on the job, explain that they will be bringing an apprentice with them and that this apprentice will actually be working while they are there. They might be needed for health and safety reasons or because the job takes two people, and you can let your customer know that it’s more cost-effective to have an apprentice doing work that doesn’t require a fully qualified tradesperson— digging a trench, for example. You might also want to include your apprentice charge-out rate on your website. ■

www.consumerprotection.govt.nz www.comcom.govt.nz www.business.govt.nz (Under Risks and Operations)

SMART BUSINESS

5 ways to protect your reputation as you grow You’ve built up a good reputation. You don’t want to lose it. Daniel Fitzpatrick of Next Level Tradie has five tips to help. TO ACHIEVE GOOD strong profits for the long haul, you need to grow. Win bigger and better projects. Be able to command higher prices. Unfortunately, as you grow, it can be hard to keep control. If staff are messing up jobs, fixing mistakes can be costly. When work is not done to your standards, it gets stressful, clients get let down, and it’s your reputation on the line. This is why many business owners get stuck at their current level of income. Or try it for a while, then scale back, deciding it’s not worth it. Running a local business comes down to relationships. Reputation is everything. Here’s how to protect it: 58

August/September 2019

1. Keep the main thing the main thing Consistently delivering a quality outcome is essential. That’s number one. If you build a great experience, customers will tell each other. As you grow, you’re going to have increased costs. To cover this, you need to charge more. You can only charge more if you give the value—meaning you have to hold yourself to a higher standard of service. Don’t be the same. Be better. Let your team know customer service is everyone’s job. Have standards of behaviour: punctuality, respecting property, leaving things tidy, polite language, helpful, accommodating attitude to customers and other trades onsite. Keep lines of communication open. Keep customers informed. Use a client portal. Give contact numbers and emails for all team members up the chain, including yours. Sort problems early.

SMART BUSINESS

your employees are out there, representing your name every day—you want to create an environment where they perform at their best Check in with clients at end of the job. Show them what you’ve achieved. Wow them with a thank you gift at handover. It’s also important to manage customer expectations. Make sure they’re realistic and everyone’s on the same page. Explain your process. Educate them around what they’re trying to achieve. Be honest and transparent. When everything’s out on the table, there are no surprises. Make sure variations are agreed on and clearly documented, so there are no arguments over the bill.

2. Deliver exactly what you say you will Quality is the best business plan. But you (and your high standards) can’t be everywhere. Start documenting systems, checklists, policies and procedures ASAP. Everything should go through the system, not through you. Get everything out of your head, so there is a benchmark for whether or not work is up to scratch. Robust systems allow you to keep your team organised, projects on schedule, get all resources onsite, ensure everything is done right, and minimise mistakes—whilst juggling multiple jobs. Systems will set you free and keep staff accountable to the same level of care and commitment you have (or almost). Reputation comes from consistency. Consistency makes you reliable and easy to deal with.

3. Don’t cut all the ropes Your employees are out there, representing your name every day. You want them buying into your vision, your standards—and taking responsibility for their part. You also want to create an environment where they perform at their best. Set them up for success. Make sure they know exactly what’s expected. Set targets so they stay motivated, on track, and always know whether they’re winning. Install a reward system. Invest in the best tools and equipment to get the job done to the highest possible standard (and boost productivity). If you look after your staff, they’ll look after your customers. Provide interesting projects; recognition for a job well done; let them in on things that are going on in the company; ongoing training; emphasis on safety. Put the necessary checks in place so you’re keeping tabs. Check in with your team at regular intervals, especially at critical points in larger jobs. Then you’ll be able to intervene early if the job is going south. Hold team meetings to ensure everyone’s heading the same way; touch base often in one-on-ones. This should ensure you’re

well informed of any issues, not blindsided by a call from an irate customer or disgruntled employee ranting on Facebook about his boss. Don’t be afraid to move on a staff member with a bad attitude. Staff theft is also not uncommon. The best chance of preventing this is background checks when hiring, and keeping careful track of tools/materials so you know if stuff goes missing.

4. Stack the odds in your favour Build and manage your online reputation (website and Facebook page at least)—93% of customers are influenced by online reviews. Showcase your expertise, talk about what sets you apart, your quality guarantee, awards, trades association membership, before and after photos of your work, and share success stories. Make it easy for customer to leave a review. Why not incentivise your team for positive reviews? Reward them any time their efforts get your company a 5-star review! Monitor for new reviews and mentions using Google Alerts. Respond quickly to all comments on the same platform. Always be professional, helpful, polite. If you’re in the wrong, own it, fix it, put things right. This is an opportunity to turn this client into a raving fan. If they’re being unreasonable, a solid humble reply explaining the situation should make this clear. Future clients will read your replies (especially to complaints) and formulate an opinion on what you’re like to work with. They’re looking to see any hint they’ll be ripped off, of shoddy work, that you’ll be hard to deal with, dishonesty, lax communication, if you leave a mess and don’t care, whether you’ll fix things if there’s unforeseen problems.

5. The faster you go, the bigger the mess Don’t try to grow too big too fast. Don’t try to run too many projects at once—82% of businesses fail because of strangled cashflow. This gets you into trouble hurting your reputation as things quickly spiral out of control. Suddenly you’ve run out of cash for suppliers, you’re on stop credit, you’ve got no money for wages, and customers are furious you can’t finish the build. I’ve seen this play out too many times. It comes from not having the strong foundation and infrastructure needed to support your growth. Remember what’s happening in your business now is the result of what you put in 12 months ago. Are you thinking strategically, playing the long game, pacing yourself, with a good business model and solid gameplan? You’ve got to watch your numbers like a hawk. Make sure you have margin in the jobs. (No point ‘growing’ if there’s no extra profit.) Know which jobs you want—say no to the ones you don’t. Play to your strengths. As a specialist you’ll be able to build your reputation quicker. ■ About the author: Daniel Fitzpatrick runs Next Level Tradie. Want to set yourself up for success as you grow? Get Daniel’s free “Next Level Your Profit” guide at https://nextleveltradie.co.nz/guide/

August/September 2019 59

SMART BUSINESS

By the book

Stress-free EOFY Even though we all know tax time is 31 March every year, most of us still end up in a last-minute panic to be organised. So, how to plan for a stress-free end of financial year? Lynn Render of the Institute of Certified NZ Bookkeepers has advice. •

•

Be proactive! As much as we all like to put these things off, don’t. By being proactive you not only ensure you are on track to meet deadlines, but you will be reducing underlying stress and clearing your mind for forward movement in your business. Get a checklist. Make an appointment with your accountant early and ask for a list of their requirements so you can collate these for your meeting. Alternatively, asking for a checklist at

•

REASONS

•

(PLUMBING MERCHANT THAT IS)

•

TO LEAVE YOUR

•

All our profits stay in NZ, Fred

We’re 100% Kiwi owned, so all our profits stay right here in New Zealand – without leaking over the ditch. To discover all 30 Reasons visit

plumbingworld.co.nz/30reasons

August/September 2019

the beginning of the financial year will help you collate the information during the year. Talk to your bookkeeper. Ask your bookkeeper to check to make sure you have everything required for your accountant to collate the annual financial statements and tax returns. They have a wealth of knowledge of what is required by the accounting team. Hold monthly reviews. Have monthly reviews with your bookkeeper. Resolve issues immediately, rather than trying to tackle them later, when you may not remember or have all the necessary information on hand. Use software. You will soon recoup the set-up costs of cloudbased accounting software, as your financial team will be able to log in remotely to work as and when required. Keep up to date. If you are entering transactions and/or coding yourself, aim to do this daily, or at least weekly, while it’s all still fresh in your mind and only a five-minute job. Consider job management software. Look into cloudbased packages that can assist with scheduling jobs, quotes, reporting etc. Picking one that can integrate with your accounting software will save time and headaches. Complete a stock take as at 31 March. If you have a lot of stock, you may want to look at a cloud-based inventory system—again pick one that can integrate with your accounting software. Be organised from day one. Have good filing systems and procedures. Make sure all key data—such as loan documents, ACC, receipts, GST and bank statements—are easy to access. Some accounting software programmes let you attach documents directly to transactions as you go. Identify the stressors. Identify the things that stress you at end of financial year, and discuss with your bookkeeper how you can eliminate or reduce them.

Most importantly, plan for success. Outsource what’s outside of your skill set and focus on your core business. It is always cheaper and easier to have a professional bookkeeper to set you up correctly right from the start than it is to call them in later to create order out of chaos. Find Certified NZ Bookkeepers at www.icbnzbai.org.nz ■

asking for a checklist at the beginning of the financial year will help you collate the information during the year

SMART BUSINESS

In the office

Andrea Lovell says she wouldn’t be without the ‘company bible’. A couple of years ago, Dale and I put together our company bible or, as Dale calls it, The McHeron. It is a manual we compiled in case something ever happened to Dale or me or one of our office staff members. We wanted to make sure the company would be able to run smoothly if any one of us was taken out of the picture through sickness or accident. I have already found it extremely helpful when I have had to fill in for one of our other office ladies to do a job I don’t do on a daily or weekly basis, like wages. Our company bible started with basic company information like IRD, GST numbers and bank account information. Then I started adding information about how to use our computer systems for making a booking, scheduling, purchase orders, new customers and job costing. This has been extremely helpful when we have had to train new staff. I then started to put a list together of suppliers we use for different things, such as getting our phones or photocopier fixed, our insurance company and panel beater—those suppliers

who aren’t used on a regular basis. I also talked to our staff, asking them for ideas and information on their roles, and got them to write it down. Then I added in people’s job descriptions and how to do every part of everyone’s role within the company. Once I had finished putting our bible together, I printed it out and got everyone to take a look, make notes, and add other information they thought was important. We had a copy bound of the completed version, so it is available to anyone who needs it. It has already come in handy on more than one occasion, as I hate to have to contact staff members while they are on holiday, and we try to update it yearly. You may not think it would be an asset to your company, but I wouldn’t live without one in ours. ■

About the author: Andrea Lovell is Office Manager at Heron Plumbing in Auckland. She is co-director of the company with her husband Dale Lovell.

www.hydroflow.co.nz

SMART BUSINESS

Is your business emergency-ready? One year in for New Zealand’s updated fire and emergency regulations, how confident are you that your business has the right emergency procedures in place? In this new mini-series, resilience providers RiskLogic will share the most relevant emergency and crisis management updates and advice. Evacuation schemes and procedures

As of 1 July 2018, most New Zealand buildings must by law have an approved and managed evacuation scheme or procedure. The exceptions are residential homes or complexes with three or fewer household units. This is the result of a new regulation under the Fire & Emergency NZ (FENZ) Act and, although not as in-depth as our neighbouring Australia’s regulations, the new requirements are

still causing some confusion for organisations and businesses trying to stay compliant. There is particular confusion amongst businesses around whether an evacuation scheme or procedure is needed. Both are essentially processes to get building occupants out safely in the event of a fire, but a scheme must be approved and signed off by FENZ (https://onlineservices.fire.org.nz/Home/ EvacuationSchemes). Use the flow chart below to work out which your business needs. Other changes under the new regulation include: • colour and layout of building fire action notices • fire-fighting equipment for older buildings • new application deadlines and requirements for FENZ approval • adjustment to evacuation schemes or the power to revoke by FENZ • changes in trial evacuations • requirements for building owners to notify FENZ of certain events.

Do you need an evacuation scheme or procedure?

Use this flow chart to work out if your building needs an evacuation procedure or a FENZ approved evacuation scheme. Is your building used for any of the following? • The gathering together, for any purpose, of 100 or more people? • A place where hazardous substances are present in quantities exceeding the prescribed minimum amounts, whatever the purpose for which the building is used? • Providing an early childhood and care centre (other than a household unit)? • Providing nursing, medical or geriatric care (other than a household unit)? • Providing specialised care for people with disabilities (other than a household unit)? • Providing accommodation for people under lawful detention (not including home or community detention)? FENZ APPROVED SCHEME REQUIRED

NO YES

Is your building fully sprinkler protected? NZS 4541:2013, NZS 4541:2007, NZS 4515:2009 or NZS 4515:2003

YES Is your building used for either of the following purposes? NO

• Providing employment facilities for 10 or more people? OR • Providing accommodation for six or more people (other than in three or fewer household units)? Is your building used for both of the following purposes? • Providing employment facilities for 10 or more people? AND • Providing accommodation for six or more people (other than in three or fewer household units)? NO

YES

PROCEDURE REQUIRED*

FENZ APPROVED SCHEME REQUIRED

* Must notify FENZ but building does not need a FENZ approved evacuation scheme

August/September 2019

YES

Although NZ’s commercial and industrial safety history is good, many have failed to adjust to and maintain these requirements. Those who have, however, have seen a positive response during insurance renewal periods, as well as quicker adjustments to new premises they’ve obtained.

Lockdown and shelter in place

Whilst every site must now have an evacuation procedure, this still leaves questions around the latest concerns: lockdown and shelter in place (ie, the opposite of evacuation). Many industrial outfits close to Christchurch airport were put into lockdown immediately after the Christchurch attack on 15 March—a seemingly unlikely event for these businesses. One confirmed armed police prowling their loading docks, creating panic for staff and stakeholders on the business’s preparedness. With growing focus on this new threat to New Zealand, businesses are assessing which staff need detailed training, how they maintain a programme, and how they align this to the updated evacuation requirements. Mix in the issue of sending mass-communications for businesses with staff out in the field and on the move, and it can all seem overwhelming.

Plan, do, check & act…

•

Tactical: First responders, wardens and emergency services—building capability to ensure people and assets are protected. • Operational: Reducing the impact to critical business functions during a business interruption. • Strategic: Delivering a strategic incident response to protect the Master Plumbers brand and reputation. The next phase of the journey looks to put the team through a scenario exercise to validate the crisis plan and team. ■

About the author: Brad Law is the country manager for RiskLogic New Zealand and an award-winning consultant with nearly three decades of experience in the resilience space. He now focuses on helping New Zealand organisations find resilience solutions unique to their people, whilst building a culture of preparedness. He is leading the programme for the Master Plumbers organisation in 2019. Contact RiskLogic on 0800 003 453; info@risklogic.co.nz; www.risklogic.co.nz

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Instead of worrying about the multitude of emergency events that could occur, take a practical look at your current processes. You’ll get a good idea of where you’re at by following these four steps: Plan, Do, Check & Act. As an organisation, Master Plumbers has taken this advice seriously and has begun a new programme with RiskLogic in 2019. By following the programme, Master Plumbers will develop a comprehensive crisis management plan and training for its newly-formed crisis management team in Wellington, led by CEO Greg Wallace. Its initial objective is to develop a framework the team can use to deliver a coordinated response to any incident that may impact the organisation’s key stakeholders. The team recognises this is only the start, though. A full programme looks to increase their preparedness and capability across three levels of coordinated response:

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MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD

This edition’s updates from Masterlink, the Master Plumbers-owned apprentice management company.

Six on the scoreboard

Six Masterlink apprentices are through to the Plumbing World 2019 Young Plumber of the Year regional finals. •

As Plumbing World’s 2019 Young Plumber of the Year competition moves to the regionals stage, we want to congratulate our six Masterlink apprentices who won their branch competitions:

Above: Pukekohe branch winner Joey Naea.

• • Above: Kaitaia branch winner Valentino Eyer.

Oamaru branch: Akida Shimamoto hosted by Hi Flo Plumbing Henderson branch: Patrick Sweeney hosted by Heron Plumbing

New Lynn branch: Carlos DonnellBrown hosted by Campbell Plumbing & Gasfitting • Hastings branch: Ben Stanley hosted by East Coast Plumbing & Gas • Pukekohe branch: Joey Naea hosted by Tilyard Plumbing • Kaitaia branch: Valentino Eyer hosted by Rogers & Rogers. For Valentino Eyer, this is the second year in a row that he’s won his branch competition—and Joey Naea won at his branch just six months into his apprenticeship! Each went forward to their respective regional finals, held between 31 July and 28 August, as NZ Plumber went to print.

Proudly training apprentices

Show us your decals and be in to win!

We sent all Masterlink hosts one of our brand-new decals in June. Show your commitment to apprentice training and the future of our industry by displaying them in your vehicle and workshop or office windows. Need more? Email marketing@ masterlink.co.nz and we’ll send them out to you—interior and exterior decals available. How to enter our prize draw We’re giving away a $100 Prezzy Card to the winner of our prize draw! Send us a photo of a Masterlink apprentice beside

the decal to get two entries to the draw—one for your company and one for the apprentice. A snap of the decal in a window gets one entry for your company. Email your photo to marketing@masterlink.co.nz or send it via our Facebook page facebook.co.nz/ masterlinknz

New Chair for Masterlink

With Mark Whitehead retiring from the Master Plumbers Board after 25 years’ service, Masterlink has a new Chairman. At the 2019 NZ Plumbing Conference, Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace thanked Mark Whitehead for his outstanding commitment to Master Plumbers and particularly to Masterlink apprentice training. “Mark is a credit to this industry,” said Greg on presenting him with a certificate for 25 years’ service on the national Master Plumbers Board. Mark was also awarded Master 64

August/September 2019

Plumbers Life Membership at the NZ Plumbing Awards in May and said it was a privilege to be recognised by his peers. At the first Master Plumbers Board meeting after the conference, Dave Strong was appointed to the role of Masterlink Chairman for the 2019-20 year. Left: Dave Strong has been appointed Chairman of Masterlink.

MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD

Central North Island appointment

Meet Russell Walsh, new Masterlink Central North Island Regional Manager. Masterlink recently farewelled Dave McGall after five years as Regional Manager in the Central North Island Region. We had some high-quality candidates to replace Dave and we’re delighted to introduce Russell Walsh, who started in the role in July. Russell has a wealth of experience in our sector, having previously run his own plumbing

and gasfitting business and worked in operations and sales for Genesis and Nova LPG. He looks forward to building relationships with Masterlink hosts and apprentices in the region. Please find all Regional Manager contact details over the page.

Qualified!

It’s always a proud moment seeing Masterlink apprentices completing their qualifications. It’s Masterlink’s goal to support all our Above: Regional Manager Bob McCoy presenting apprentices through to completion Gavin Wilding of Mana of their National Certificates (now Plumbing in Porirua with called New Zealand Certificates). For his Plumbing National at the Master most apprentices, this is a four or five Certificate Plumbers national office. year journey, so qualifying is a major achievement. We like to present the framed up certificates in person wherever possible as an opportunity to congratulate our apprentices and thank their host employers who do such an amazing job providing their on-job training.

Above: Ethan March of Thomson Plumbing and Gasfitting on the Kapiti Coast receiving his Plumbing and Gasfitting National Certificates from Bob McCoy. Ethan’s boss Andy Thomson is on the right holding Ethan’s Masterlink Certificate of Completion.

From 2019, Masterlink will also invite newly qualified apprentices and their hosts to attend the President’s Dinner at their local Master Plumbers Association or Branch, to celebrate the completion of their qualification. The first President’s Dinner of the year will be held at the end of August as a joint Hutt Valley/Wairarapa and Wellington event.

Life after college

Leaving college is a crunch point for career decisions—and Masterlink helps ensure school leavers are aware of their plumbing career options. If there’s a local careers expo coming up, one of the Masterlink team will be there! National office staff Kate Jenkins and Brianna Henderson were at the busy Life after Coll careers expo held at Wellington College in June to talk to students about the exciting opportunities a plumbing career has to offer. On the same day, Lower South Island Regional Manager Brendan Parker was at the

Above: Masterlink exhibiting at the recent Wellington College ‘Life after Coll’ careers expo.

Above: A plumbing pipe challenge tested students visiting the Masterlink stand at the Otago Careers Expo in June.

Otago Careers Expo, inviting students to have a go at a plumbing pipe challenge. Masterlink is also supporting Plumbing World’s 2019 Trade Up Tour, with Masterlink team members joining Logan Dodds and Jesse James Cassrels at 25 high schools around New Zealand. The Trade Up Tour is designed to demystify some myths about plumbing and shed some light on the careers on offer in the plumbing trades in an exciting and engaging way. The show started in May and is on the road until this September.

August/September 2019 65

MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD

Thanks Roger!

As Roger Herd reaches retirement, we ask him a few questions about his 15 years with Masterlink. and Masterlink. I’m in the middle of several projects, including landscaping at our bach and restoring three old fuel pumps to add to my collection. Who knows what else I might do but I’ll take time to adjust first.

Q: What state do you think the industry is in as you leave? A: When I started with Masterlink 15 years ago,

I was the only regional coordinator. Now, there are two in the South Island and four in the North Island. That’s a sign of how healthy apprentice training is. I think a lot of companies are realising how important it is to grow their own. Master Plumbers is in very good hands with CEO Greg Wallace, who has a very positive approach and has really moved the industry to another level.

Q: What are your Masterlink highlights? A: Signing up the first female apprentice for Masterlink was a

real highlight. I love seeing apprentices get qualified and win awards. It’s been a really enjoyable experience teaching them and I’ve made some amazing friendships. Winning the Outstanding Services to the Industry Award twice is another career highlight.

Q: Why are you so passionate about apprentice training? A: It’s extremely rewarding seeing apprentices mature as they go through the training system. Some have a few issues at the start and then make good and become stars. I never thought I’d be in a role like this, as I didn’t enjoy school. As a mentor, I’ve always made a point of not being like my school teachers—I prefer to treat apprentices as equals.

Q: What are your retirement plans? A: I’ve just turned 69 and I’m very lucky to have been part of the industry for 54 years. It will take time to adapt and I will miss the daily contact with apprentices and hosts, but I’ve made so many lasting friendships during my time with Master Plumbers

Q: Who will replace you at Masterlink? A: I’m happy to be passing my hosts and apprentices to Brendan Parker, who I’ve been working with at Masterlink for the past year. Brendan is very conscientious, does a great job, and we have become the best of mates.

A word from Operations Manager, Kate Jenkins Roger Herd has played a huge part in Masterlink’s success and growth over the last 15 years. He has provided the highest quality of customer service to his hosts and apprentices and I know they will all miss him. He will also be missed on many levels by everybody here at Masterlink. Roger’s industry knowledge and passion is hard to replace. He has given so much to Masterlink and has actually trained most of the Masterlink staff here, including me, on the benefits of Masterlink and what we can offer to the industry. He has passed on his attention to detail, and pride in outstanding customer service to the current team, which means he will always be a part of us! I have no doubt we will continue to catch up with Roger and see him regularly at industry events.

Sta ea Sta

Busine looking appren

As a Mas you train get set u

Get in touch

Need an apprentice in your business? Our Masterlink Regional Managers are here to help.

If you hav and enjo cover let

MasterL Tania Forsyth Auckland and Northland 027 558 5441

Colin Kilpatrick Auckland 021 773 296

August/September 2019

Russell Walsh Central North Island 027 600 9929

Bob McCoy Lower North Island 027 479 0075

Sam Timlin Upper South Island 021 433 615

Brendan Parker Lower South Island 021 644 560

“Masterlink has gone really well for us” art arning! art living! “Masterlink ensures a good match for my business. I look for apprentices with a good attitude. As long as they’re willing to learn, I can teach them the skills.” – Bruce Trenwith BT Plumbing, Auckland

“I like the fact that there is someone else supporting the apprentice in the background, someone you can fall back on if there are any issues.” – Richard Graves Inside Systems, Invercargill

esses in Oamaru are g for plumbing and gasfitting ntices right now.

sterlink apprentice, we pay you while n for a great Get qualified and Morecareer. of the support you need and less risk: up for life!• Recruitment & Testing

• Mentoring and appraisals ve good hands-on, practical skills • Apprentice PAYE and HR oy real job •variety, send your CV and Block Course arrangements tter to roger.herd@masterlink.co.nz • Health & safety management

Link.co.nz•

Starter toolkit and PPE

“Using Masterlink has gone well for us. They offer good support and communication. It takes the stress off you because they do the vetting and pre-employment testing.” – Aaron Jamieson BOP Plumbing & Gas, Rotorua

Too easy! Contact our team today 0800 502 102 admin@masterlink.co.nz www.masterlink.co.nz

SMARTGENERATION NEXT BUSINESS

Team exercise

The Master Plumbers Outward Bound Scholarship win was a lifechanging experience for Wade Williams. Florence Cohen spoke to Wade about the 16-day challenge. IT’S A TIGHT-knit team of five at Chris Wilson Plumbing in Auckland. Wade Williams is one of many apprentices to have benefited from Chris’ mentoring approach over the years and is now in the final year of his Masterlink apprenticeship hosted at the firm. When Master Plumbers offered an Outward Bound Scholarship to a deserving Master Plumbers Apprentice Member, Chris challenged the 22-year-old Masterlink apprentice to apply—and the rest of the team backed him all the way. A few weeks later, and with little time to pack, Wade found his employer’s faith in him had paid off; he had won the scholarship. Used to the hustle and bustle of Auckland, Wade was sent deep into the Marlborough Sounds without much idea of what awaited. Although he’d done some hiking and camping, the Outward Bound BETA course would push him to the limits and challenge his own expectations of himself. With no cellphone reception and no headphones, there was no drum and bass

for Wade on his morning runs… a world away from his usual comfort zone. But as he began to appreciate the natural surroundings, he also started making connections with the others on the course— connections with like-minded tradespeople that he reckons he’ll keep for life. “It definitely wasn’t what I would have expected, but it was good to be there and I made a lot of really great friends,” he says. The course saw two groups of 13 tradies, ranging in age from 18 to 27, having to camp in the bush for 16 days. They were

the Outward Bound course would push him to the limits and challenge his own expectations of himself

Above: Masterlink apprentice Wade Williams (back row, second from left) was part of the Cook watch group on the Outward Bound course in June.

August/September 2019

EARN POINTS, REDEEM FOR GREAT REWARDS Above: The Batten watch pose for a group shot during the challenging 16-day adventure in the Marlborough Sounds.

put through their paces, running in the early morning cold and tramping through challenging terrain. For Wade, the most exciting experiences often came when he least expected them. “I did a lot of things I’d never done before, like sailing and kayaking—I learnt heaps,” he says. The team building exercises were particularly valuable for Wade, who grew more confident and sociable with each day that passed. A four-day hike in gruelling weather solidified the bond with his team mates and helped him appreciate the whole experience. “Outward Bound is all about working with other people to overcome any problems that may arise,” he says. Bringing those qualities back to work has been incredibly useful. Wade has not only become more grateful for the jobs he’s given, but he’s also more communicative with customers and staff—and willing to lend a hand to everyone on the team. With only a year left of his Masterlink apprenticeship, Wade is a changed young man. He has a new level of maturity and is thinking about his specific future goals, such as starting his own firm, becoming his own boss and owning his own van. “I find the positive in things a lot more now,” he says. “If I come across a problem, I look at it differently.” ■

there was no drum and bass for Wade on his morning runs

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Could you be next?

Wade Williams won the inaugural Master Plumbers Outward Bound Scholarship, awarded each year to a lucky Apprentice Member of Master Plumbers. All Apprentice Members are eligible to apply for the fully funded scholarship, which is worth over $3,500. Keep an eye out for the next opportunity.

NEXT GENERATION

Career switch success First-year plumbing apprentice Raukawa Paama has found the career to suit her practical skills—and encourages other females to consider the trades. Story by Joanne Caine. THE THING RAUKAWA Paama likes most about plumbing is that she’s finally getting to build stuff. At college in Whanganui, she really wanted to study building or woodwork but couldn’t get into those classes. There wasn’t much information or encouragement for female students to take up trades then. Today, the 30-year-old mother-of-two is a first-year Masterlink plumbing and gasfitting apprentice hosted by Plumbing & Gas Works (PGW) in Hamilton—and she loves it. A creative and practical person, Raukawa says, “I see plumbing as an art form. It’s a great feeling to take pride in quality work you have achieved.” Not only is the work hands-on and satisfying, but she loves the variety. Her first day on the job involved drainlaying in the pouring rain, and she couldn’t stop until the job was complete. More recently she’s been fitting out 90 en-suite bathrooms in a brand new block at a retirement village and has enjoyed seeing the project through from start to finish. “I’m learning lots and my colleagues are great,” she says.

From Army storeman to apprentice plumber Raukawa doesn’t find it difficult working on male-dominated construction sites. After leaving school, she served five years as the first female ‘storeman’ for Combat School in the NZ Army Logistics Corps, based at Waiouru training camp. She took care of stores including weapons, ammunition and clothing for Infantry and Light Armoured Vehicle training corps, often going out in the field to 70

August/September 2019

Above: Thirty-year-old Masterlink apprentice Raukawa Paama is in the first year of her training at Plumbing & Gas Works in Hamilton and loving her career switch.

manage equipment during training exercises in the bush. At 21 she left the Army, moved to Australia and worked in warehousing, later going on to marry and start a family. In 2017 she decided it was time for a fresh start. Raukawa and her two children moved back to New Zealand and she started looking for a job with better career prospects. Asked how she got into plumbing, Raukawa laughs and says, “It’s a bit of a strange story. I saw Australian Survivor contestant Aimee Stanton talking on TV about changing her career from beauty therapist to plumber. That resonated with me because I did work experience at school with a hairdresser and soon realised it wasn’t for me. I thought to myself, ‘If she can do it, I can do it.’”

Women can make great plumbers Raukawa began a six month pretrade plumbing course at Wintec and approached PGW for work experience. They were so impressed they took her on as a full-time labourer when she finished her course, and signed her up through the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink apprentice management company in 2018.

Mike Foote, PGW General Manager, says she had the attitude they were looking for. “Raukawa’s willing to give anything a go and eager to learn. She fits in with our culture and gets along with everyone. She has become a well-respected colleague in a very short amount of time. She recently won our company wide teamwork award, receiving multiple nominations from other team members.” While Raukawa is the first female apprentice for PGW, Mike knows women can make great plumbers. Twenty years ago, his sister qualified as a plumber and gasfitter. “Raukawa doesn’t want or need any special treatment because she is female,” he says. “She wants to be treated like any of our other employees.”

Thankful for all the support Raukawa says Plumbing & Gas Works is a terrific company to work for and a great bunch of guys to work alongside. “They also give lots of help and support with work and study. Even though it’s the only company I’ve been with, I wouldn’t want to be with any other. Thanks heaps to Mike and Jacob [Smith, company foreman].” She is grateful for the support Masterlink provides too. “I heard great things about Masterlink from fellow apprentices and decided it was the better option for me. If I need anything, I know I can pick up my phone and call my Regional Manager any time.” Raukawa also appreciates how lucky she is to have the support of her parents. It’s not easy being on apprentice wages with young kids to look after, but she knows change will come in time. “The good thing about a trade is that your pay increases as you get more experience. And once you qualify you could end up owning your own business.” Her six-year-old daughter is proud her mum is training to be a plumber and wants to be just like her when she grows up. And Raukawa is keen to encourage other women into trades. “If you really want to go into the industry just do it—think of your reason why and never give up.” ■

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HEALTH & SAFETY

Toolbox tips Short and snappy health and safety messages to share with the team.

Dust inhalation risks Make it a priority to stop dust circulating in the workplace. Inhaling dust at work can cause serious lung diseases that often aren’t diagnosed for years. Inhaling very fine dust with respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can lead to silicosis, an irreversible and progressive lung disease. Silica is a natural substance found in concrete, bricks, rocks, stone (including stone kitchen benchtops), sand and clay—and isn’t necessarily visible to the naked eye. WorkSafe recently did a survey of 250 Hamilton construction workers who perform dusty work. The results found low use of dust suppression and extraction. Whilst workers generally used respirators, fit-testing was low and few users were clean-shaven, which makes PPE less effective.

Before you dig… The PGDB’s Info Brief (July) included an item from Alpine Energy about the three safety basics when excavating around services. We summarise it here:

1. Plans and mark-outs: www.beforeyoudig.co.nz is a good service to use for a comprehensive database of buried services around New Zealand 2. Cable and pipe location devices: use in conjunction with the most recent service provider plans and don’t rely on a location device as the only check used 3. Safe excavation: use manual digging to expose buried services (where possible, avoid powered hand tools and mechanical excavation) and never assume all services are identified. This safety reminder follows a recent incident in which a water reticulation company worker received a moderate electric shock after cutting into an underground electrical cable believing it was a water pipe. Fortunately, the neutral screen cable did its job, preventing a fatal shock. According to the article, the company had made a ‘Before you dig’ enquiry before starting the contract, but the information was not available to workers on site. Visit https://worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/excavation/ excavation-safety-gpg/ for underground service safety guidance.

AUCKLAND • HAMILTON • WELLINGTON • CHRISTCHURCH • DUNEDIN 0800 253 774 • WWW.KERRICK.CO.NZ 82

February/March 2019

Size, pace, space Do you offer your employees any support to prevent alcohol-related harm in your business? We talked to Jude Walter about Lion’s Alcohol&Me workplace training and how it can help people make informed decisions on drinking.

DO YOU KNOW how long it takes for your body to process a standard drink of alcohol? Do you know what a standard drink of beer or wine even looks like? There is a lot of myth and misinformation about alcohol and starting a conversation about alcohol with a work colleague can be a bit of a taboo subject.

Effects on a business

In a business sense, misuse of alcohol can have negative effects on your firm’s reputation, productivity levels and absenteeism, not to mention health and safety risks—one of your field guys driving with too much alcohol still in their system from the night before, for example. With the health and wellbeing of your team now an important part of workplace health and safety law, providing staff training around alcohol and drug use can help bring your business policies to life and empower your staff to make informed decisions. Seven years ago, Lion developed an

alcohol education programme for their own staff. Within a couple of weeks of the first session, the word got out and they were getting expressions of interest from other large companies and GP practices. As a result, they did 18 months of due diligence and ran a pilot with the New Zealand Rugby Union before officially launching the Alcohol&Me training for businesses nationwide in 2015. “It’s grown year on year since then,” says Lion’s Programme Manager Jude Walter. “To date, 51,163 people have been trained via workshops or online.”

Informed choices

“Our ultimate goal is to help as many New Zealanders as possible know how alcohol affects their body and mind, so they can make the best choices for them,” says Jude Walter. “It’s not about telling people not to drink or what to drink, and nor is it about labelling people or providing solutions for problem drinkers. Our aim is for the sessions to be like a conversation with a friend— there’s no finger wagging.” A golden rule shared with participants at the course is: Size, Pace, Space. Size means knowing how many standard drinks are in your glass; Pace means drinking at a speed that is right for you so you can stay in the zone for longer; and Space means spacing out your drinking if you’re in for a long night’s partying. Fulton Hogan are among the

HEALTH & SAFETY

Above: A large glass of wine can equate to two or more standard drinks.

businesses to have put staff through an Alcohol&Me session. “We had Jude come in and present at our regional safety days, which included over 300 staff,” says Fulton Hogan’s STQE Manager Nikki Robinson. “She kept the guys engaged and on track as a few of them wanted to share their stories. Of particular interest was the physical demonstration of a night out and just how long it takes the body to process the alcohol—and what might still be left in your system when you report for work the next day. The session certainly created a lot of conversation with our crews.” ■ Lion offers three course options: a threehour facilitated workshop, a one-hour introductory quiz, and self-directed online training. To find out more, contact Alcohol&Me Programme Manager Jude Walter on 027 286 3961; alcoholandme@lionco.com

Did you know?

KEMBLA •

•

• Above: Participants at an Alcohol&Me workplace training session at Frucor consider the anticipation and after effects of a night on the tiles.

A standard drink = 10g of pure alcohol (eg, a 100ml glass of 13% wine or a 330ml bottle of 4% beer) It takes your body 1 hour to process a standard drink (ie, if you have three standard drinks, it will take three hours to process). A bottle or can of alcohol will always display on the label how many standard drinks it contains. Eating food or drinking water makes no difference to processing time but it can change how you feel the effects of the alcohol.

•

You can’t speed up processing time. More than 10g of pure alcohol in your liver during the one-hour processing time, and the alcohol does a tiki tour of your body, getting your heart, brain and lungs etc to “babysit the booze” rather than focus on their core functions. This is when you feel the effects of alcohol. The effects of alcohol vary depending on factors like age, gender, ethnicity, body weight, medications etc—but the processing time remains the same.

August/September 2019 73

HEALTH & SAFETY

Low height risks People can be tempted to take chances at lower heights because they seem less of a risk, but these kinds of falls come with their own dangers, warns Site Safe. IT DOESN’T TAKE much height to lead to a fatal fall. In fact, many falls from roofs and ladders that cause death or serious injury are from less than three metres. One of the most recent deaths was a 45-year-old construction worker, who fell from the first floor of a building onto concrete in Hobsonville in May. Ryan Groves, a safety advisor at construction safety organisation Site Safe, says low level heights have their own dangers.

Mistaken complacency

One is just that people are more complacent, or maybe optimistic, about safety at lower levels. Put somebody 20 metres above ground on scaffolding and they’ll usually take all the precautions required. Put somebody two or three metres up a ladder and they’re more likely to take risks. But the concrete doesn’t get any softer. “It’s the same with people working on a truck deck or a ute deck or on the single storey of a residential dwelling,” Ryan says. “And this applies on the weekends to people standing on roofs cleaning their guttering and climbing a ladder to do some maintenance. We naturally have an instinct that low level falls aren’t going to hurt.”

Above: People tend to take care when working at height but may cut corners with safety at lower levels, and this needs to change.

Little time to react

Above: Site Safe safety advisor Ryan Groves says low-level falls come with their own dangers. 74

August/September 2019

Another, less obvious reason low level falls can be so devastating is that most people don’t have the reflexes to allow them to protect themselves. “When you fall from a low level you just don’t have enough time to put your hands out and do anything to fix it. “At six metres you can do a full revolution. So you might fall backwards and be able to land back on your feet so

you just break an ankle or a leg. But most people who fall at three metres or less don’t have time to correct their stance and can fall onto their spine or neck.” He cites the case of a tradesman who fell 2.2 metres when his feet slipped out from under him. He ended up landing on his head and breaking his neck. “He would have recognised he was falling, but your brain takes longer than that to respond and react.”

HEALTH & SAFETY

Vehicle falls can be deadly

Injury falls from trucks and the backs of utes are also common, Ryan says. In fact, WorkSafe figures for 2019 show there have already been two deaths from vehicle falls. One was a 71-year-old who fell from a truck trailer in Wellington; the other was a 65-year-old in Auckland who fell from a truck. “A delivery truck can turn up to a residential building site with pre-nailed framing and people climb up to three metres to get to it. I mean, you put a guard rail around people working at two metres on a house, but a truck driver can be working at three metres with nothing.”

Plan the job

Planning a job is a huge part of dealing with any risks to workers, says Ryan. “The Health and Safety in Work Act talks about having a work method statement: something that’s not specifically a task analysis or a job safety analysis (JSA) but at least a written system that says: ‘This is how we’re going to do a job.’ “So before we start a job we assess it,

we identify any risks and control them. So we do a 5 by 5 [see below] or a simple pre-start check. These can pick up on those risks quite easily and alert people to anything that could catch them out.” Then there are common building practices that can lead to a major hazard on a site. “When it comes to putting in stairs in a two-storey house, these are usually put in late in the build because the builder doesn’t want them to get damaged. But that leaves a gaping hole in the middle of a floor where the stairs are going to go. “They assume because everybody knows it’s there nobody will fall down but it leaves a void there.” WorkSafe prosecuted an Auckland construction company this year after a worker fell through such a void. He received traumatic brain injury and fractures to his skull and right arm when he fell 3.4 metres on a residential building site. The company was found guilty and fined $100,000. “The answer is to put the stairs in early but cover them in plywood so they’re actually usable.”

Ryan says it is always key to think about planning a job to remove any risk of falls. In fact, the best controls are ones that don’t require a worker to make any big decisions, such as putting up protective barriers and edge protection, or using properly erected scaffolding. ■ For more information on reducing risks: www.sitesafe.org.nz/guides--resources/ practical-safety-advice/risk-control/

Five by five The 5 by 5 system for reducing risks of all kinds is to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify hazards Assess the risk level of each hazard identified Control the risk to reduce the harm and its severity Reassess the level of risk for each hazard Review and monitor that controls are working and risk levels are acceptable.

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HEALTH & SAFETY

Preventing suicides in construction Site Safe has published a first-ever report into suicides in construction and is now developing a mental health and wellbeing strategy. NZ Plumber takes a look at the findings.

IN RESPONSE TO concerns about high levels of suicide in the construction industry, Site Safe published the country’s first report on suicide in the sector this May. The report reflects the pressures on construction workers who died by suicide and aims to provide evidence to inform future prevention initiatives.

Workplace pressures a major factor

The study reviewed 300 coroners closed case files of suicides of people in the construction industry that occurred between 2007 to 2017. Coroners’ reports listed workplace pressures as a factor in nearly a third (32.3%) of all cases. The workplace pressures mentioned in coroners’ reports included: • job insecurity or uncertainty • the stress related to running a business • pressure to deliver under deadlines • juggling responsibilities • dealing with an injury or illness affecting the ability to work. One in eight (13%) of all cases listing workplace pressures included experiences of job insecurity or an uncertain work situation. People who were self-employed or business owners (11.3% of all cases) were twice as likely to have been impacted by work-related factors than employees.

Shifting attitudes to mental health

“To lose 300 people to suicide in our industry over 10 years is devastating,” said Site Safe Chief Executive Brett Murray on the report’s release. “It’s an employer’s responsibility to provide a safe environment for their workers and this includes protecting physical and mental wellbeing. There has been huge progress in workplace health and safety over the past 20 years, but we all need to play our part in shifting attitudes towards mental health. “We know that companies and contractors in our industry are looking for help to protect their employees’ mental wellbeing. This report shines a spotlight on the pressures that exist for people working in the construction industry and it’s a first step towards understanding the problem. “As an industry, we need to work shoulder to shoulder to ensure everyone’s mental health is protected, from apprentices to small business owners and employees of large construction companies.” Overall, the findings show that the construction sector figures reflect the broader trends for male suicide in New Zealand. Almost all (99%) of the suicide cases of people who worked in the construction industry recorded over the 10-year period were men. The age groups

most affected were also similar to national male population figures with 15% of cases aged 20-24 and 14% aged 45-49. The report identified no single driver of suicide in the construction industry. It found causes were always complex but there were common factors the industry can work to address, including work stress, financial strain and physical injuries.

Industry specific initiatives

Site Safe is now developing a mental health and wellbeing strategy based on the findings of this report. “The outline some of the pressures on people working in the construction industry,” said Mental Health Foundation spokesperson Shaun Robinson. “These pressures aren’t unique to the construction industry, but the solutions can be found by getting the industry set up to address these challenges and improve the mental health of its people. “Suicide prevention is something for all New Zealanders to work on, but the most effective initiatives are tailored to the environments and cultures of people at risk. In the case of the construction industry, pilots of programmes in New Zealand and Australia have found that initiatives targeted at people who work in the construction industry can prevent suicide and improve mental health and wellbeing.” The report was co-funded through the building research levy by the Building Research Association (BRANZ) and Site Safe. Download the full report at www.sitesafe.org.nz/guides--resources/ research/sitesaferesearch/ ■

Helplines Above: This graph from the report shows the work-related factors identified in the closed case files of suicides that were reviewed in the Site Safe study. 76

August/September 2019

Need to talk? Find a list of helplines at www.mentalhealth.org.nz/get-help/incrisis/helplines/

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August/September 2019 77

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

New products & services Check out the marketplace movers and shakers.

Aqualine acquires Immergas agency Aqualine is warming up Kiwi homes through its acquisition of the New Zealand Immergas agency. In June 2019, Aqualine Products Ltd announced the acquisition of the New Zealand agency for Immergas to provide central heating systems to Kiwis. With over 55 years’ experience and more than seven million boilers installed, Immergas, founded in 1964, is one of the leading companies in the heating sector in Europe. “The introduction of a central range is an obvious choice for Aqualine,” says Aqualine General Manager Kieran Nally. “We’re already a leading supplier of back of wall, piping, gas and backflow to the industry, so it means we can provide a whole house solution. “Immergas already has a very good reputation in New Zealand for its Euro-style heating, and this acquisition further cements our intention to bring quality technical products to the market and to ‘supply and support Kiwis to build New Zealand’.”

Above: Mathew Slaugher is Aqualine’s new Business Development Manager – Immergas.

Aqualine has also brought Mathew Slaughter on board as their new Business Development Manager – Immergas. Mathew has been working in the central heating industry for 30 years and has very strong relationships with both merchants and installers. For more information about Immergas and the range of products available to the NZ market, visit: www.aqualine.co.nz/store/immergas Or contact Mathew on mathew.slaughter@aqualine.co.nz or 027 302 1897.

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The added hygiene of the Cleanflush® rimless flushing system makes the Opal Cleanflush Suite range ideal for hospital, aged care and commercial applications, where the absolute highest levels of hygiene and rapid cleaning are required. The inclusion of a raised height pan, extra projection and armrests (load tested to 160kg) make the Opal Cleanflush range an ideal solution for aged care applications. The range is compliant with access and mobility Standard NZS 4121:2001. Supplied with uni-orbital connector for flexible installation—extends to any position up to a 50mm radius. Universal trap—suitable for S and P trap installations. caroma.co.nz 78

August/September 2019

A pumping station from APD can provide your ideal solution, thanks to the flexible system design. Start with their range of pumps, including grinder and vortex pumps, to meet your exact flow and pressure requirements. If your design calls for two pumps, for instance, or a specific brand of pump… no problem. The standard robust, lightweight polyethylene tank volumes are 800 and 1,200 litres, but APD can make any size you need. Finally, they provide a pump controller with a high level alarm and built-in overload protection. Call APD on 09 263 7741.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Rinnai partners with Central Heating New Zealand Rinnai New Zealand has purchased a 50% stake in Central Heating New Zealand. Managing Director of Rinnai New Zealand Ray Ferner says Rinnai are thrilled to partner with Central Heating New Zealand to help grow this country’s most successful warm-water central heating brand. “Central Heating New Zealand has real-world product expertise and unparalleled engineering resources that clearly position them as the market leader for product and knowledge.” “We are excited about building a long-term partnership with Rinnai,” says Lyall Smith, Director at Central Heating New Zealand. “We are confident that working together will help us strengthen both brands and reinforce our presence in the New Zealand market. “It was clear from our initial discussion that we share similar values, culture and synergies. Focussing on the synergies will

allow Central Heating New Zealand to provide a better service to customers in the North and South Islands.” Central Heating New Zealand regretfully inform that Lewis Smith, founding partner, is stepping down from his directorship and company duties for health reasons. The team want to acknowledge his huge contribution to the company and the warm-water central heating industry.

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