NZ Plumber December 2015-January 2016

Attend a health & safety briefing to get to grips with the new law – See page 65 DECEMBER 2015 /JANUARY 2016

Merry Christmas!

And a prosperous New Year

Construction Contracts Amendment Act

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

New approach for retentions

JUSTICE PRECINCT Seismic plumbing project

WINNERS IN WAIKATO Top in the region

IMMEDIATE DANGER The need to notify

MICO MAKES GOOD ON

PROMISES TO THE TRADE 99.2% NEIL MCINTYRE BRANCH MANAGER MICO HUTT CITY

We love the challenge of servicing our customers, which is why we’ve put our nuts and nipples on the line!

We’ve made a serious commitment to having the right product at the right price at the right time… and measuring it!

If we’re successful then our customers are successful – building better businesses together.

So come in and put us to the test – we’re up for it!

100%

99.0% 99.6%

99.4% 99.3%

99.5% 99.2%

99.4%

99.2%

100% 99.4%

99.7%

100% 99.2% 99.7%

99.0% 100%

KEY: STOCK AVAILABILITY

98.9%

INVOICING/PRICING ACCURACY

98.6%

These figures are the average performance across all Mico branches in each region for the 4 months from July to October 2015.

99.4% 99.8% 99.2% 98.8%

SERVICE PROMISE

As a direct response to feedback about what’s most important to customers and as part of an ongoing quest to be the easiest place to do business, Mico has developed a Service Promise which launched at all Mico branches nationwide at the end of June this year.

The Mico Service Promise has six components ranging from stock availability to on-time delivery, with a strong initial focus on having 500 core plumbing products in stock at every Mico branch across the country, every day.

What differentiates our promise in the market is that it has consequences – if we fail to deliver we’ll put our money where our mouth is and lunch will be on us.

Because no one should be easier to deal with than Mico.

0800 844 448 I www.mico.co.nz

500 core products always in stock or lunch is on us* You pay what we quote or we’ll credit you $10 Trained & knowledgeable staff

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Click & collect within 30 minutes or lunch is on us* Delivery of your order on time* Industry leading warranties on our exclusive products *Conditions apply. Find out more in-store.

EDITORIAL

Volume 67, Number 6 MAGAZINE TEAM CEO Greg Wallace EDITOR Beverly Sellers 03 543 2008 beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz DESIGN Sally Travis Design www.sallytravisdesign.co.nz PRINT Service Printers 258 Taranaki Street Wellington 6141 SUBSCRIPTIONS NZ Plumber is published six times a year by Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ. MPGD members receive all six editions.

Non-members can subscribe online at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/subscription-form-2 MAILING LIST For enquiries, or to update your details: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz Non-Master Plumbers’ members with contact detail changes should notify the PGD Board, giving their registration number licensing@pgdb.co.nz TO ADVERTISE Contact Catherine Schuster 027 839 8398 cschuster@masterplumbers.org.nz

NZ Plumber is the official magazine of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc. Contact details for the MPGD Board, Society staff and Regional Associations are available at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/contact ©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.

Tradespeople needed!

It’s all well and good reducing ‘loopy’ rules to streamline the building process, but it’s nothing without sufficient tradespeople.

IT WAS A real pleasure to attend the recent Waikato Master Plumbers Awards. With healthy construction growth in the region, this was a great opportunity to recognise apprentices, individual tradespeople and business owners for playing their part (p44).

Next up will be the 2016 NZ Plumbing Awards in Rotorua in April, this time celebrating the achievements of plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers from all around New Zealand (see p9). These awards acknowledge high standards and skill sets in those entering the industry, those working in the industry and those who have served the industry for many years.

As the article on p37 considers, we need more of such people. Auckland and Canterbury, in particular, are short of plumbers but in other regions, too, poaching qualified staff is a real problem. The answer must surely be for more businesses to train apprentices.

To get all three trades under their belt, many trainees sign up in plumbing and gasfitting, then go on to study drainlaying for a further 18 months or so. We look at the drainlaying apprenticeship on p60 and meet three current and former trainees over the ensuing pages.

It’s muddy work, for real, but great if you love variety and being outdoors, says one.

Being a good plumber, gasfitter, drainlayer AND business owner is a lifetime’s work.

There’s always so much to learn from a technical and legal perspective. This edition, we focus on a couple of the most recent changes, including the amended Construction Contracts Act (p12) and imminent health and safety reforms (p65).

For now, though, it’s time for a much-needed break… Thanks so much to all our readers, contributors and advertisers during the year—you make this magazine happen! Have a wonderful time relaxing with friends and family and we’ll be back in the New Year.

Beverly Sellers Editor, NZ Plumber, beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz PS: We have an early Christmas present for Master Plumbers’ members—download the NZ Plumber app now to access this issue and more! Find out how on p48.

OVER TO YOU The best email, letter or tip published on this page wins a $20 Hunting & Fishing voucher! Do you have a picture, story or news to share? Or feedback on any of the articles you’ve read in NZ Plumber?

Email the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz. Or give me a call on 03 543 2008.

Magic memoirs I don’t usually do this sort of thing but I have to tell you that I find the quality of the NZ Plumber production and content outstanding. I have especially enjoyed reading the memoirs of the Dunedin plumber and encourage you to find others to tell their stories.

Mark Hanson, Property Services Division, University of Otago Ed: Thanks for your feedback Mark—we enjoy reading Ernie MacManus’s memoirs too. Ernie has done something quite special by putting his memories to paper and we thank him for letting us publish them. We’d love to hear from any other retired plumbers out there with tales of the way things were. This issue’s prize voucher is on its way to you, Mark.

December 2015/January 2016

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PAGE TAG

51

12

21

Inside this issue

DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016

WHAT’S ON 7 Health & Safety briefings; business contracts seminars and the NZ Plumbing Conference

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8 CEO Greg Wallace on this year and next; refreshing the rules; new consumer website; upping the Master Plumbers Guarantee; NZ Plumbing Award entries; business contract resources and updated employment agreements.

IN FOCUS 12 Change for construction contracts

More security of payment with amended Act

14 Goodbye to loopy rules?

Getting rid of pointless, petty rules

REAL LIVES 17 Three generations

Plumbing connection for father, son & grandson 4

December 2015/January 2016

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 18 Justice be done

Seismic standards for Justice Precinct plumbing

32 Best practice: underfloor heating

Advice for installers

INNOVATION 34 Waste to water

21 The future is here

Using BIM for the precinct project

NUTS & BOLTS 24 Legionella revisited

INDUSTRY TALK 36 Racing line

Expert advice on reducing risk in water systems

Innovative farm effluent filtration system

Supercar experience for Rinnai and Plumbing World prize winners

26 Tech points

Membrane roofing and Canterbury drainage

36 InSinkErator acquires Parex

NZ move for food waste disposal manufacturer

27 Wipe out Consumer’s view on flushable wipes

37 We need more plumbers!

Why apprentice training is a must

29 The gas ring

News snippets for gasfitters

37 Supervision changes

PGD Board fast-tracks change

30 Immediate danger!

How Energy Safety deals with gasfitter notifications

38 High flyers

Top achievers in Certifying exams

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER Attend a health & safety briefing to get to grips with the new law – See page 65 DECEMBER 2015 /JANUARY 2016

Merry Christmas!

And a prosperous New Year

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18

34 38 Rheem NZ buys Peter Cocks

Rheem to expand product range 39 Sam’s spot

You never know who’s watching 39 Recent convictions

The clampdown continues 40 Complaints & discipline

A new ‘triage’ approach at the PGD Board 42 A West Coast welcome

CPD and camaraderie in Greymouth 43 Train with TradePoint

What’s on offer for our trades

AROUND ASSOCIATIONS 44 Winners in Waikato

At the inaugural Waikato Master Plumbers Awards

TECH SAVVY 48 NZ Plumber goes digital!

Find out how to access your copies

SUPPLY LINES 49 Time tracker

Superior customer service with Navman Wireless

WORLD VIEW 50 Goodwill plumbing

Laser Group Charity Taskforce in Fiji

TIMES PAST 52 Wartime apprentice

Ernie MacManus recalls speed-driven housing

SMART BUSINESS 54 Growth matters

Having a clear goal & a great team

Construction Contracts Amendment Act

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

New approach for retentions

JUSTICE PRECINCT Seismic plumbing project

WINNERS IN WAIKATO Top in the region

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IMMEDIATE DANGER The need to notify

44 Cover photograph: Santa’s workshop

59 Keep a record

Record keeping for business start-ups

NEXT GENERATION 60 Do you dig it?

The pipeline to a drainlaying career

62 Full circle

MasterLink at every stage 64 Set on drains

Drainage is the answer for this mature apprentice

SAFETY FIRST 65 H&S guidance and training AND FINALLY 67 Christmas crackers

55 Are we agreed?

Getting employment agreements right

56 Good employment practice

Mixed bag of employment law changes

69 Offcuts

Media snippets of the plumbing kind

58 Building your brand

It’s more than a logo…

70 Dodgy plumbing

This issue’s shockers

A bit of festive fun

December 2015/January 2016

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December 2015/January 2016

What’s on

EVENTS

Events and seminars from Master Plumbers to help you build a better business.

NZ Plumbing Conference 2016 Dates: 6-8 April 2016 Venue: Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, Rotorua

As this edition reaches your mailbox, there are just a few days remaining to book and pay for the 2016 NZ Plumbing Conference for your chance to win an Air New Zealand Great Mystery Break for Two. The draw closes on 15 December so be in quick!

Early-bird rates for the conference apply until 23 February 2016.

Register by this date and Master Plumbers pay $599 (inc GST) for full registration—a $200 saving on standard registration fees.

Apprentices pay just $49 (inc GST) for day registration on the Thursday or Friday or $195 (inc GST) for full registration.

Plus, of course, the Trade Show is open to the public on both days.

Attending the conference is a business no-brainer. It’s your annual opportunity to see new products under one roof; network with suppliers, contacts and colleagues; get valuable business insights from inspirational speakers; hear from exhibitors and take part in trade sessions.

An optional business growth session from The Icehouse is also freely available to Master Plumbers members on the Friday afternoon.

Above: Conference accommodation is available at special rates at the Novotel Rotorua Lakeside venue and the Hotel Ibis.

Find the full programme, register for the conference and book your accommodation at www.nzplumbingconference.org.nz

Principal Conference Sponsor & New Zealand Plumbing Awards Sponsor

Health & Safety Briefings Dates: 10 February-3 March 2016

Business Contract Seminars Date: At a time that suits (minimum 10 people) Venue: In your region

Presented by Master Plumbers in conjunction with WorkSafe New Zealand and ACC, this 2½ hour seminar will give you a good understanding of the changes to workplace health and safety under the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015 and how it will impact on your business.

The session costs just $10 and is tailored to the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying trades.

Developed by Master Plumbers in conjunction with Duncan Cotterill Lawyers, the Business Contracts Seminar provides you with information about the new Building Act requirements relating to residential contracts for building work. It will show you how to use the necessary documentation as a positive tool in your business. The seminar also looks at how to use the payment provisions in the Construction Contracts Amendment Act 2015 to ensure you get paid in a timely fashion, and the upcoming changes to retention payments.

Book your briefing session at www.tradepoint.org.nz or email Danielle Heath dheath@masterplumbers.org.nz with any queries.

Arrange a seminar in your region by emailing Danielle Heath dheath@masterplumbers.org.nz or call 0800 502 102.

Venue: 15 provincial centres nationwide

December 2015/January 2016

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MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS NEWS

This year, next year It’s been a busy year at Master Plumbers and there’s plenty more planned for 2016.

THERE WAS GOOD feedback from the Associations at the half-yearly meeting in October, and a general sense of unity across all regions, which is refreshing to see. The combined effort of Master Plumbers through its 17 Associations is something we should never devalue.

One of the key areas discussed at the meeting was an update to the Society rules to allow for modernisation.

We have also decided to increase the workmanship cover under the Master Plumbers Guarantee from $10,000 to $15,000, which is good news for members and their clients. We’re updating the guarantee terms and conditions and will send a PDF out to members as soon as they are finalised.

The half-yearly meeting provided an opportunity to present our newly launched Don’t Risk It consumer website, which is part of our continuing marketing drive. The new mobile-friendly site is getting good traction, supported by a broad promotional campaign on billboards, bus lines, print and digital platforms.

We think the simpler, more userfriendly approach of the website will drive the public to use a Master Plumber, Gasfitter or Drainlayer when they need work done. The same

approach is being taken for the new trade site, which is currently in development and due to launch in January.

We’re also pleased to launch the new digital version of NZ Plumber, which members can now access on their mobile phone, tablet or desktop. Turn to page 48 for a step-by-step on how to get hold of your digital copies.

Free access to the digital magazine is just one of a range of benefits in our new apprentice membership category, which is now available to all apprentices in the industry. We’ve had excellent support from our Business Partners for this initiative, and we believe it’s a great platform for all apprentices to get involved with Master Plumbers.

In the New Year, we’ll also be offering apprentice members tailored training in aspects such as customer service, better business skills, and health & safety— encouraging them to get trained up in areas beyond their general workplace learning.

As I write this, the draft regulations for the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015 are out for consultation and likely to be in force by April. I urge members to attend one of our Health & Safety briefings, available in provincial centres from February. You really can’t afford not to participate in this training (just $10 for members), which will protect your business and give you a good understanding of how the new legislation will impact your business.

NEW MEMBERS Warm welcome to new Master Plumbers’ member businesses: • • • • •

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Alpha Plumbing, Auckland JM Blakely Ltd t/a The Plumber, Havelock North Chas Bone Plumbers, Hastings Matt Hobbs Plumbing, Taihape RJ Plumbing & Drainage, Hastings

December 2015/January 2016

Want to join?

we have decided to increase the workmanship cover under the Master Plumbers Guarantee from $10,000 to $15,000 If the Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board’s CPD proposals go ahead, next April will also bring a new form of CPD in time for the 2016 licensing year. We have been working closely with the PGD Board on the proposals and, while we are in support of change, we have also cautioned them to ensure the new delivery platform meets the industry’s needs. This is a new opportunity to get it right and we want to be sure our members gain real value from the course learning.

For now, though, it’s time to relax and enjoy the summer break. Merry Christmas, safe driving and good fishing!

Greg Wallace, CEO Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ

Discover the business benefits of becoming an MPGD member by contacting Catherine Schuster on 027 839 8398; email cschuster@masterplumbers.org.nz Membership application forms are available at www.masterplumbers.org.nz TWO-YEAR SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP DEAL AVAILABLE!

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS NEWS

Refreshing the rules

A fresh look at the Society rules is on the agenda for Master Plumbers.

With a long-established organisation like Master Plumbers, every now and again the rules need a full review to make sure they’re in line with the times. Just such a review is underway at the Society, with the aim of modernising and simplifying the rules.

An example of modernisation would be changing the wording to allow for postal votes by email as well as in writing.

Elsewhere wording will be clarified to ensure the rules are as easy to interpret as possible.

At the half-yearly meeting in Wellington in October, delegates from the Master Plumbers Regional Associations were given the opportunity to discuss proposed amendments to the rules before going back to Association members with a progress update. All

Don’t risk it…

Check out our new website for consumers.

Potential customers looking for a Master Plumber can now go to www.dontriskit. co.nz to find their nearest. The new site also includes good reasons to hire a Master Plumber, some plumbing tips and advice, and a webpage for customer feedback.

In our NewsTube e-newsletter, we sent out a web tile that you can use to promote the Don’t Risk It site on your own website. Just get your web developer to embed the hyperlink to www.dontriskit. co.nz/why-use-a-master-plumber and add the alt text ‘Find a Master Plumber’.

If you have not received the webtile for any reason, please email beverly@ masterplumbers.org.nz to request one.

The site is part of a wider consumer

Above: Promote your business by adding this webtile to your own website.

marketing campaign, which includes digital and print advertising, billboards and back-of-bus promotion of the Don’t Risk It message.

The second stage of the overall website revamp is the trade site, which is due to launch at the start of next year. Keep your eye on www.masterplumbers.org.nz for a whole new look!

We guarantee it!

We’ve upped the Master Plumbers Guarantee claims limit.

Members can attach the Master Plumbers Guarantee to their residential quotes to give customers added reassurance. The 12-month guarantee protects consumers against loss of an advance payment in the event of a member going into liquidation or becoming insolvent. It also covers substandard workmanship claims.

In good news for members and their clients, the workmanship cover has now been increased from $10,000 to $15,000

(inc GST)—which includes up to $5,000 for products.

The new Master Plumbers trade website will include an area for members to update details of all field staff to ensure that their workmanship is covered by the Guarantee.

Find the Master Plumbers Guarantee at www.dontriskit.co.nz/ why-use-a-master-plumber

Above: Delegates at the half-yearly meeting in Wellington.

proposed rule changes will be voted on at the Master Plumbers AGM in Rotorua next April.

It’s a win-win

We want your entries for the 2016 New Zealand Plumbing Awards!

It’s easier than ever to get your entries in with our new options of online forms or interactive PDFs. Raise the profile of the plumbing industry and acknowledge the efforts of colleagues, staff, suppliers and apprentices by nominating them for an award.

Is there a new product you rate for its ease of installation or for filling a gap in the market? A team member who has shone over the past year? Or someone you know who’s served this industry with drive and dedication? This is your chance to champion them!

Plus, of course, there is the supreme Master Plumber of the Year Award for business excellence. Take a long, hard look at your own business performance over the past couple of years.

Has it grown? Have you introduced some successful new initiatives?

Upped your game with marketing and customer service? Improved your operational systems? Enter for the award to give your business and your team recognition for the hard yards, and give your customer profile a major boost.

The awards will be presented at the black-tie 2016 New Zealand Plumbing Awards Dinner, sponsored by Plumbing World, on Friday 8 April.

Go to www.masterplumbers.org.nz to enter by 11 March 2016. > THE NEW ZEALAND

December 2015/January 2016

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MASTER PAGE NEWS TAG PLUMBERS NEWS

Taranaki triumph

It was a fitting ITM cup win for Taranaki at the recent Master Plumbers President’s Dinner in the region.

Health & Safety briefings Book your place to get to grips with the new legislation.

Workplace health and safety rules are changing and it affects all members.

To help you gain an understanding of the new legislation and what it means for your business, we’re running Health & Safety Briefings in provincial centres around the country from February.

Presented in conjunction with WorkSafe New Zealand and ACC, the seminars cost just $10 to attend and have 8 CPD points attached. We urge you to attend! Book at www.tradepoint.org.nz under Face-to-Face training or email Danielle Heath: dheath@ masterplumbers.org.nz with any queries.

NEW: apprentice membership Industry apprentices can now join Master Plumbers for just $40.

We want to support and reward apprentices for playing a vital role in the future of our industry. Our new Apprentice Membership category is open to all plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying and roofing apprentices, who will receive a great range of benefits, including a Mico mini tool bag, reduced entry to the NZ Plumbing Conference, a special Spark mobile plan deal, free access to the digital version of NZ Plumber and more...

Sign up for just $40 by completing the application form at www.masterplumbers.org.nz or emailing Danielle Heath dheath@masterplumbers. org.nz. MasterLink apprentices are automatically enrolled free!

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December 2015/January 2016

The Port Taranaki Bulls enjoyed a fourth consecutive win in the ITM Cup in September, with a 41-0 whitewash of their northern neighbours Waikato. Members from both Master Plumbers Associations were there to watch the game as part of the President’s Dinner entertainment. The photo shown here was taken by Master Plumbers Business Development Manager Catherine Schuster, who attended the evening with CEO Greg Wallace.

Above: Faithful Waikato supporters Dave and Linda Strong before the game.

Building work contracts

Business contract resources when doing work for homeowners.

It’s now a legal requirement to have a written contract for building work when you’ve been given a job directly by the homeowner costing $30,000 or more (inc GST). We recommend you have a contract for all work of this kind over $10,000.

We have developed a template agreement for member businesses to use for fixed-price contracts for residential building work—including repairs—when you’ve been given the job directly by the homeowner.

This template is available as an interactive PDF in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz together with: • • • •

Form 1 – Agreement for Variation to the Building Work Form 2 – Notice of Completion of Building Work The prescribed checklist The prescribed disclosure statement.

The web page guides you through the process of using these documents from first contact with the homeowner to final payment.

New to the page is a download of Form 1 (Schedule 1) of the Construction Contracts Regulations, which must be given to clients if you are making a payment claim under the Construction Contracts Amendment Act 2015.

To help you understand how to use these documents in your business to best effect, Master Plumbers has teamed with Duncan Cotterill Lawyers to deliver a Business Contracts Seminar to members for just $35. If you would like a seminar in your region (minimum numbers required), contact Danielle Heath on 0800 502 102 or email dheath@masterplumbers.org.nz

Updated employment agreements Available to members for free download.

Head for the member log-in at www. masterplumbers.org.nz to download the updated versions of our standard and apprentice employment agreement templates, developed in conjunction with Duncan Cotterill Lawyers. This is a free resource for members that can be adapted for use in your business when hiring new

team members. A user guide is also available on the website.

Remember, employers are required by law to keep a copy of every employee’s signed employment agreement or current terms and conditions of employment. Both parties should also initial each page.

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IN FOCUS

Change for construction contracts Changes made to the Construction Contracts Act are welcome news for tradespeople—particularly around retention payments.

THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS Amendment Act 2015 was passed in October and starts to come into effect this December.

The Act has three main purposes around construction contracts: to regulate payment provisions; to provide an adjudication framework for disputes; and to provide options for recovering non-payment.

Key changes to the 2002 Act have been made to provide: • more certainty of payment of retention money • a fair, balanced payment regime • access to faster, cheaper dispute resolution • timely enforcement of rights and obligations.

Differences between how the Act applies to residential and commercial construction contracts have been removed. Parties to either type of contract now have equal access to default payment 12

December 2015/January 2016

provisions and adjudication processes under the Act. The only exception is in relation to charging orders.

It’s still not possible to seek charging orders against any owner who is a residential occupier of the construction site, including situations where the owner is a family trust.

The definition of ‘construction work’ has also been amended to include the ‘related services’ of design, engineering and quantity surveying.

CHANGES TO RETENTIONS For commercial construction contracts entered into from 31 March 2017, retention money over a certain amount that is withheld under the contract will be subject to a trust obligation. New regulations may prescribe the minimum amount of retentions the new trust requirements will apply to.

The aim of the new trust obligation is to provide more certainty of payment for

contractors and sub-contractors who are owed retention money for work done, and to ensure the money held is managed responsibly.

Contracts can’t include any terms designed to delay payment of retention money. Nor can they include any conditional payment provisions (ie, paywhen-paid provisions) for retention money.

Retention money can’t be used for any other purpose than to remedy a payee’s breach of their contractual obligations, such as fixing defective work.

Retention money: • doesn’t need to be held in a separate trust account. Undrawn down funds in a line of credit will satisfy the trust obligations • may be mixed with other money in the same bank account • may be held in the form of cash or other liquid assets, such as accounts receivable or a bank guarantee

IN FOCUS •

may be invested, and interest earned can be kept, provided the investment is in accordance with the Trustee Act 1956.

Proper methods of accounting for retention money will be required. Those holding retentions must keep proper accounts that correctly record all dealings and transactions relating to the money.

These records must be readily available to those owed the money.

Interest will have to be paid on late payment of retentions at the rate agreed under the contract. If not agreed, the default rate to be specified in the regulations will apply.

If the payer becomes insolvent, retention money will be protected. It is not available for the payment of debts of any creditor and can’t be taken by a court order at the insistence of any creditor.

These changes have been welcomed by the Specialist Trade Contractors Federation (STCF), which has fought long and hard for them. “This is arguably the biggest step in securing payments for subcontractors since the passing of the Construction Contracts Act in 2002,” said STCF President Graham Burke to members on the passing of the Bill in October. “The section relating to retentions commences 31 March 2017, allowing ample time for the industry to prepare for the changes and avoid any unforeseen negative impacts.

“The biggest change in the legislation is that any money held as a retention is held in trust for the party who is owed the money. This means that if a company fails while holding retention payments, the retention money can only be used to pay out the party the retentions were held from or to remedy defects in that party’s work. Directors of a company that fails and cannot account for the money owed on retentions are criminally liable.

“As an example, if this legislation had been enacted before Mainzeal collapsed, around $18 million would have been paid out to subcontractors owed retentions.

As it was, this money was paid to secured creditors and the liquidator.”

As an STCF member, Master Plumbers lent strong support to the campaign leading up to the change in legislation.

CEO Greg Wallace said the new Act was great news for the plumbing industry.

“Master Plumbers, in conjunction with STCF, has spent considerable funds

CHANGES APPLY FROM… Change

In effect from

Residential and commercial construction to be treated the same under the Act, with the exception of charging orders. This gives parties to residential contracts equal access to the dispute resolution and payment regimes

1 December 2015

Design, engineering and quantity surveying work to be included under the scope of the Act

1 September 2016

Retentions withheld under commercial construction contracts entered into or renewed on or after 31 March 2017 must be held on trust

31 March 2017

and invested a great deal of time and energy to ensure plumbers get paid the retentions money they are owed in future.

We are extremely proud of this result for the industry, which reflects the tangible benefits of the advocacy work we do on behalf of our members nationwide.”

CHANGES TO PAYMENT PROCESSES The Amendment Act also makes changes to the payment regime provisions.

Payments under construction contracts are usually made in instalments, known as ‘progress payments’. The Act now makes it clear that parties are also free to agree on a single payment instead of instalments.

Both commercial and residential payment claims must now be accompanied by a prescribed form that outlines the processes for responding to the payment claim (see Resources box).

This form explains the consequences of not responding to, or paying, a claimed or scheduled amount. Previously, this information only had to accompany residential payment claims.

CHANGES TO ADJUDICATION AND ENFORCEMENT Both commercial and residential notices

of adjudication must now be accompanied by a prescribed form that includes a statement of the respondent’s rights and obligations, and a brief explanation of the process. Previously, this only applied to residential notices of adjudication.

The Act now requires at least two working days between serving a notice of adjudication and selecting an adjudicator where a claimant requests an authorised nominating authority to select the adjudicator.

Adjudicators serve a notice of acceptance on the parties where they accept an appointment to act as an adjudicator. This notice of acceptance must now be in a newly introduced prescribed form.

Adjudicators’ determinations about rights and obligations under a construction contract are now enforceable in the same way as determinations for payments of money, ie through entry as a judgment in the District Court.

More detail on changes to adjudication and enforcement can be found at www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/ building-construction ■ Find the Construction Contracts Amendment Act 2015 and Construction Contracts Amendment Regulations 2015 at www.legislation.govt.nz

CCA RESOURCES Resource

More information

NZIQS Introduction to the Construction Contracts Amendment Act 2015 seminars

NZIQS may look at repeating its 2015 seminar series in early 2016 and extending it to other regional centres; www.nziqs.co.nz

STCF educational programme

The Specialist Trade Contractors’ Federation intends running an educational programme outlining the changes; www.nzstcf.org.nz

More information on the changes to the Act

www.mbie.govt.nz (under Information & Services, Building and construction)

Template form available for Master Plumbers Form 1: Residential payment claim members’ use at www.masterplumbers.org.nz information (must be attached to all payment claims from 1 December 2015)

December 2015/January 2016

13

IN FOCUS

Goodbye to loopy rules?

Getting rid of rules that are pointless, petty or past their sell-by-date is the aim of the Rules Reduction Taskforce.

OVER THE PAST few months, the government Taskforce has talked to communities, councils and sector groups around New Zealand—including Master Plumbers—to identify rules that really annoy. Rules that just don’t make practical sense or that unnecessarily complicate things for business or property owners.

Their findings, published in the Loopy Rules Report, make for interesting reading—particularly the fact that around two thirds of the feedback they received related to the Building Act and Resource Management Act.

The loopy factor

The loopy factor could be a rule that isn’t practical, or makes no sense, sets unattainable standards or is open to any number of interpretations. Examples given by people include:

Loopy factor

Example

The rule is not practical

The owners of a bus depot structure with no walls were forced to install four exit signs, in case people can’t find their way out in a fire

A rule can be interpreted in many ways

Having a level entry to showers: some councils say yes, some say no, and then charge for an opinion or ruling

Compliance defeats A rural property owner had to spend $30,000 putting in a driveway and water the rule’s very tank to meet fire requirements. When the purpose house caught fire, the fire chief wouldn’t drive his truck past the house to the tank at the back in case it caught fire too

So annoyed!

Builders and tradespeople would seem to be particularly annoyed by red tape. They provided 16 percent of the feedback—second only to homeowners at 22 percent. They’re not alone, though.

According to the report, loopy rules also frustrate those with the job of enforcing them, such as councils.

The factor causing most annoyance is needless complexity (22%), followed by unnecessary bureaucracy (20%) and the resulting delays (14%). High costs were the fourth biggest annoyance (13%).

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December 2015/January 2016

Above: The owners of a bus depot structure with no walls were forced to install emergency exit signs.

With councils responsible for administering 37 Acts (according to Local Government New Zealand), it’s little surprise that the complexity can lead to inconsistent decisions, and an overload of policies, guidance documents and criteria. Complex technical terms within the documents only adds to the confusion.

with councils responsible for administering 37 Acts, it’s little surprise that the complexity can lead to inconsistent decisions

risk-averse behaviour is likely to continue as an underlying driver of decisions as long as councils remain in charge of consenting Self-certification of builders

Above: Percentage of RMA and Building Act submissions.

Consent delays

The time taken for consent applications to be processed by councils is a particular concern for many people. “The ability of councils to ‘stop the clock’ on applications was a frequent complaint,” says the Taskforce. “Submitters question the value of a legislative timeframe that can be overridden at will, with the result that the 20 days for consent can turn into several months”, with a request for more, and often irrelevant, information at the 11th hour causing much frustration.

Top ten fixes

The report provides the Taskforce’s top ten loopy rule fixes: 1. Make it easier to get building consents 2. Get serious about lifting the skills of the building sector 3. Make it easier to get resource consents 4. Reduce the cost of consent fees by capping government building levies 5. Sort out what ‘work safety’ means and how to do it 6. Make it clear what the rules are 7. Establish a new customer focus for the public sector 8. Departments should introduce a stakeholder engagement approach to developing local government policies and regulations 9. Reform the Local Government Act 1974 and the Reserves Act 1977 10. Stop making loopy rules.

According to the report, ‘getting serious’ about building sector skills includes working towards self-certification of builders “so as to deal with joint and several liability pressures on councils”.

Errors made by councils under the joint and several liability regime has cost them millions in legal actions (think leaky buildings), causing them to become “more risk averse”. This creates undue cost, frustration and delay for the property owner.

“Risk-averse behaviour is likely to continue as an underlying driver of decisions as long as councils remain in charge of consenting,” says the report. “The long term solution is for the building sector to carry responsibility for its own work.”

Master Plumbers is carrying out a survey of its members to gauge the level of support for self-certification of plumbing and The loopy rules drainlaying. If support is high, it report: New Zealanders will make this a strategic priority tell their stories in 2016. “At the moment, the ‘certifying’ status for a drainlayer or plumber does not include the ability to sign off work that requires a building consent,” says CEO Greg Wallace.

“Master Plumbers believes it Rules Reduction is time for this to change and Taskforce Report to the Minister of Local Govern ment for our organisation to begin Aug ust 201 lobbying Government for an 5 amendment to legislation to allow for this.” ■

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December 2015/January 2016

REAL LIVES

Three generations Winton, Colin and Blair Funnell all share a close connection with the Manawatu plumbing industry.

THE WORLD OF PLUMBING was very different back in 1955, when Winton Funnell set up WK Funnell in Feilding.

“In those days, the workshop carried an assortment of lengths of galvanised steel to be cut and soldered for spouting, drains were made of earthenware, and pipework was galvanised steel or copper,” says his son Colin.

Colin, who’s now 63, started an apprenticeship at his father’s business in 1969, later going into business with him as C & W Funnell. Colin’s original career choice hadn’t been plumbing at all— good at drawing and design, he pictured himself as a draughtsman, but things didn’t turn out that way.

He applied for a job at the Electricity Department, who wanted him to continue on at school to do physics and chemistry. By the end of the sixth form, Colin had decided it wasn’t for him.

Handing over the reins

Having often worked for his father during the holidays, he was familiar with plumbing and happy to help out over the Christmas period when things were extra busy. “I carried on into the following year and it just went from there,” he says. “I’ve really enjoyed the plumbing occupation and it’s been good to me.”

Win took early retirement at the age of 57 to care for his wife after she suffered a brain haemorrhage, handing the business reins to Colin. Under the name of Funnells Gas and Plumbing Ltd, Colin set up a retail gas showroom in Feilding while running an ever-growing plumbing business, employing a staff of eight in the mid Eighties, and has continued to provide the Manawatu region with domestic plumbing, gas and drainage services since then—scaling back in the past few years to maintenance and alterations.

Sixty years on…

Now, 60 years after Win started in business, his grandson Blair has taken up

Above: From left: Blair, Win and Colin Funnell.

the role of Branch Manager at Plumbing World in Palmerston North. Like his father before him, Blair didn’t set out to enter the plumbing industry. Instead, he went to Massey University to do a Business Studies degree, but when study became too much in his third year, he decided he wanted to get a job and start earning.

After applying for several jobs, his first role (quite by accident) was in sales at Mastertrade in Palmerston North, which led to a year’s contract in Wanaka. After meeting his future partner there and spending a couple of years together in her Irish homeland, the pair returned to Feilding to raise their two young girls.

Following a stint as a sales rep for Chesters Palmerston North branch, Blair made a move to Rinnai NZ for three years as Central Area Manager.

“This year it’s come full circle, with Blair taking up the Branch Manager role at Plumbing World,” says Colin. “My father,

this year it’s come full circle who’s now 87, was one of the original shareholders of NZ Plumbers’ Merchants when it was set up in 1964 and I have also been a shareholder for many years.

Win is a Life Member of the Manawatu Master Plumbers Association and I am a current member and past President.”

Though Colin normally makes his Plumbing World orders over the phone, he occasionally catches up with Blair at the branch and says his son is enjoying the new role. “He’s a guy who thrives on a challenge and he’s a real people person.”

With all three generations living in Feilding, family gatherings happen fairly regularly—and NZ Plumber was delighted to get this photo of father, son and grandson all together. ■ December 2015/January 2016

17

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Justice be done

A first for New Zealand

The precinct is one of many projects underway to help rebuild Christchurch after the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.

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December 2015/January 2016

Above: How the precinct will look.

Below: A drone flyover view of the site.

Photograph courtesy of Fletcher Construction Company.

WHEN THE JUSTICE and Emergency Services Precinct opens its doors in Christchurch most of the work done by John Leen and his team will be buried out of sight. The $300 million development is bringing together all justice and emergency services into one purpose-built area in the city and is due to be operational by mid-2017.

John Leen Plumbing has installed more than 12km of piping at the site but the majority of its efforts will be hidden under tonnes of concrete. The Wellington-based firm secured the contract for all plumbing, heating and drainage work at the precinct after being involved with the first phase of construction in 2014.

Director John Leen, who is also Board Chairman of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ, says a large part of the work until now has involved laying pipes in sections that are then covered by concrete. “With a lot of these big developments in Christchurch, they do it in stages, in slabs,” he says.

“We tendered last year and won a section, which kept us busy from August to November, and it involved all the plumbing, electrical and other piping. Anything cast in the concrete we put in, other than the reinforcing steel. These slabs are 1200mm thick and there’s something like 10 cubic metres of concrete and tonnes of steel in them.

“After that project we were asked to tender for the whole building, which we did and we won that. So here we are a year later still on site and we have also picked up civil works around the edge of the precinct.”

Photograph courtesy of the Ministry of Justice.

Doing the plumbing for the new justice precinct in Christchurch has involved casting pipework in concrete slab to meet the toughest seismic standards.

Matthew Lowe reports.

Located in the central city, it will house up to 1,100 staff and be the regional headquarters for the Ministry of Justice, New Zealand Police, Department of Corrections, New Zealand Fire Service and St John. It will also be the city’s Civil Defence base.

It is the largest multi-agency government co-location project in New Zealand’s history. An estimated 2,000 people will work in or use the 42,000 sq m precinct daily.

The building work, which is being led by Fletcher Construction, is due to be completed by early 2017 before the various agencies move in by the middle of that year.

OVER 100 YEARS OF JAPANESE PRECISION EXPERTISE AND INVENTION.

Innovation required

A high-powered dig got the project started early last year when more than 20,000 cubic metres of soil, the equivalent of eight Olympic-sized swimming pools, was excavated. The soil was mixed with 2,500 tonnes of cement and placed back into the ground on top of a heavy-duty 1.2 metre-thick concrete base.

The numerous slabs that sit in the ground of the precinct have gone on top of this and are designed to meet the most rigid seismic standards—“if the building shakes the slab moves with the ground”—and this required some innovation for John and his colleagues.

“The biggest challenge has been programming the work because we can’t do anything until certain other tasks are complete. The bottom steel mat grid is laid and then we go along and put our stands in to hold the pipes. We worked with [engineering company] Vaico to come up with Ghost Bars and H-frames so we could sit pipes at the right level,” he says.

“It’s relatively new in the way we’re supporting the pipe in frames and then brace all the pipes because they come under intense pressure when the concrete is poured into the slabs.

“Water is put into the pipes to protect them as the concrete cures and we monitor them for a week. The water tests the pipe but we leave it in there to stop pipes floating in the concrete and do not want the temperature of the concrete curing to affect the pipe.”

Adding to the complexity of the task was that some of the pipes were 60 metres long and traversed across more than one slab.

“We had pipes going from one side of the site to the other.

The slabs were poured in sections so we’d have handiwork which would continue into the next pour. Some of the pipes traverse across three or four pours.

“It was a real hands-on process, resolving issues on site, and most issues appeared in the first couple of pours and after that we had the answers to the next pour and the next one after that.” >

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PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

About a dozen staff from John Leen Plumbing have been at the site at any time since the project began but that number will be nearer 20 as work continues over the coming year.

John now spends considerably more time in Christchurch than in Wellington and says his company’s workload has increased greatly since becoming involved with the precinct and other jobs around the South Island’s biggest city. The precinct is the first major public building to be built since the earthquakes struck.

“We are pleased and proud to be involved in the precinct. It was a strategic, planned move. Since the earthquake we knew there would be commercial development and Wellington is flatlining and there’s not enough to keep a company of my size busy. We

Left: Mass electrical ducts rise out of the steel matting in one of the precinct’s many slabs pre concrete pour.

Right: Some of the civil works.

have doubled the size of our business coming down here.

“We always had it in mind to be involved in Christchurch and we’re pleased to be a part of the rebuild. I’m looking forward to things ramping up even more from here. The Justice Precinct has been a big one and we will continue to follow on from there and are tendering for other Christchurch projects.” ■ View the Drone flyover video of Justice Precinct at https://vimeo. com/141344496

BIM for the precinct

A high-tech approach to building design has helped smooth out the demands of bringing together various agencies and contractors to create the Justice and Emergency Services Precinct.

The Christchurch development has utilised Building Information Modelling (BIM), which allows a digital 3D model of the entire building to be produced during the design process.

The model features real-life attributes within a computer and, by sharing that information among contractors, it aims to eliminate any problems that historically would only be discovered on site once building had begun.

John Leen says BIM has been around for a few years but is only now starting to be used more widely in the industry, including in the precinct project. “After our early involvement we then spent about six months working through a BIM model for the rest of the work at the precinct.

“The BIM model has every component of the build modelled into it. We can work through all the clashes and resolve those before we even start work on the site,” he says.

“It helps you to see where every pipe will go because seismically it can be a nightmare to get those things right with everything else involved in such a construction, such as vast amounts of steel work.

“We have a 40-inch TV in the shed on site and our guys can take a 3D walk around the piping, look over it, under it and all the way

20

December 2015/January 2016

around it to understand how other structures affect what we are doing.”

John expects to see BIM become an increasingly prominent part of the building process, especially for larger projects.

The government has a BIM acceleration committee as part of its goal of 20 per cent more efficiency in the construction industry by 2020. The committee is a nationwide alliance of industry and government, established in February 2014 to coordinate efforts to increase the use of BIM nationwide.

“There are plenty who knock BIM and people argue you can sort things out on site. But if done well, reports suggest we’re looking at a 30-35 per cent saving in the construction process if BIM is used in a timely manner,” John says.

“When that happens you resolve all the clash issues in the office before you head out on to the site. It means we know the locations of any pipe in the building, measurements and gridlines and we can confidently put things in and know we should not have to touch them again and they won’t be in the way of anything else.

“There’s a huge benefit from BIM and it brings real advantages depending on the size of project and its degree of difficulty.”

All photographs by John Leen Plumbing except where noted.

Strategic move

IN FOCUS

The future is here

David McDonald, Project/Contracts Manager at John Leen Plumbing, talks about how BIM benefits the construction industry—and why we need to take action!

MY INTRODUCTION TO building information modelling (BIM) was back at university in 2008, creating 3D model designs and projects in a design programme in AutoCAD. Computer-aided design has been around since the 1970s and advances in this technology have now overtaken technical drawing completely. Students are no longer taught in a drawing studio—they learn in an office environment, sitting at a computer creating drafts and plans that can be modified at the click of a button.

Software now gives us the ability not only to design a building but also to introduce a level of detail that has never been seen before. At tender stage, a coordinated BIM model can create a spreadheet, which can list sections of pipe, fittings, fixtures, bends, tees, hangers, clips and so on—all at various sizes and measurements.

You can model the invert levels for all pipe systems: water, soil, waste, vent, siphonic, gravity, overflows… everything.

You can check each component, down to a wedge, nut, fitting, into the comfloor.

You can check falls, heights, set outs,

spacings, clearances etc… the list is endless. You will have the ability to tender for a project and submit pricing based on an exact figure drawn from a model. Then, as the model progresses to construction stage, a recalculation can be taken to determine any variation.

Reducing service clashes BIM coordination meetings have allowed a working model to advance to a stage that has reduced service clashes and removed them from the design before services are installed. Clashes are sorted offsite before they become an issue. We are able to take a virtual walk through the model of the space.

At the click of a button, we can remove a section of wall or hide a section of ceiling to expose the layout of the building services. We can show our team on site a 3D picture of how, where and exactly what to install on site. This is carried out in a program called BIM-X, which allows drawings to be sent to an i-Pad on site automatically, as soon as they are updated—reducing the need for and cost of printing, and ensuring staff are

working from the latest information.

We are at the beginning of the future of the construction industry. When we see the advances that have occurred since the introduction of CAD in the Seventies, just think what we will be able to achieve in the next 10, 20 years. Soon we will be able to put on a pair of virtual reality glasses and walk around a building before it’s even been built.

Playing catch up The most important thing I can see for the progression of BIM is timing; we’re already behind. It’s not a case of deciding whether to jump on board. This is the direction the construction industry is going—we need to catch up. We need models more advanced at tender stage. We also need the people who are drawing these models to understand the various Codes and Standards, to ensure a compliant design.

The model is only as good as the person creating it!

The eventual aim of inputting everything into a 3D design/model is for it to be used by the client to control the daily operation of the completed building— known as > December 2015/January 2016

21

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT facilities management, or FM for short.

However, the information the model uses is the most important aspect if it is to be utilised correctly. Everyone will need to be working to a standard formula so that information being passed through the building community is always coherent and recognisable.

BIM training David McDonald recently attended a BIM training course as part of a BestPractice BIM in NZ two-day workshop from the NZ Institute of Quantity Surveyors. He also took part in an initial ‘train the trainer’ session. The eventual plan is for all who attended the session to deliver the course to more people.

Courses will be held in conjunction with BRANZ and the UK-based BRE, with the support of Dan Rossiter and Paul Oakley, the original course presenters.

To view a BRANZ Build magazine interview with Dan Rossiter and Paul Oakley about BIM in the UK and New Zealand, go to youtube.com and type ‘BIM in New Zealand – Build 150’ in the search bar.

I would recommend reading the BIM Handbook, and researching PAS 91:2013, BS-1192 and the soon to be released ISO1192. Some case studies can also be a good insight to the benefits (see resources in panel). BIM standards are currently being generated for NZ. The BIM Handbook is due to be revised and republished in the second quarter of 2016, when it is expected to confirm the mandate to follow BS-1192 and ISO-1192 as above.

Contract selection Everyone in the construction industry needs to be aware of how BIM could affect them if not correctly planned and implemented. The BIM Acceleration Committee have the right idea and are consulting leaders in the field for advice

on how to take this forward. The more knowledge you have, the more input and say you have in driving these Standards to work for the industry.

Barriers to the introduction of BIM are the cost of software, the lack of trust by the industry, and the lack of software technical knowledge. Unfamiliarity with BIM and its benefits can affect contractor selection. I am of the opinion that eventually the implementation of BIM will reduce project costs, increase the speed of project delivery and allow for better coordination. There will be better design accuracy and improved project safety. If contractors take the opportunity and develop their knowledge of BIM, they will not be sidelined when it comes to awarding contracts. ■

BIM research resources • • • • • •

BIM Handbook - http://www.building.govt.nz/bim-in-nz North Shore Hospital project case study - http://www.building.govt.nz/UserFiles/File/ Publications/Building/Technical-reports/nz-bim-case-study-2-north-shore-hospital.pdf AVANTI project case study - http://www.cpic.org.uk/publications/avanti BS: 1192-2007 - http://shop.bsigroup.com PAS 91: 2013 - http://shop.bsigroup.com/en/Navigate-by/PAS/PAS-91-2013 BIM video tutorials online are a great free resource.

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NUTS & BOLTS

Legionella revisited Reducing Legionella contamination risk in hot and cold water systems.

In the last edition of NZ Plumber, we reported on some recent legionellosis incidents, where the source of the Legionella infections has been traced to the home hot water systems. In the following article, David Harte, Senior Scientist at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research, provides advice on reducing the contamination risk.

ONE MEDIA REPORT identified a tempering valve as the source of the Legionella contamination. Although this was not proven, contamination in these recent cases was evident in the pipework downstream from the tempering valve—also known as thermostatic mixing valve (TMV)—and the TMV was fitted immediately to the hot water outlet on the water heater and the delivery temperature set below 50°C. This is contrary to the NZ Building Code and the Ministry of Health Legionella Guidelines, which require stored hot water to be heated to at least 60°C and delivered at 55°C.

The source water for the households in these recent cases was unchlorinated, increasing the chance of Legionella being present.

By ensuring water is delivered at the outlet at or above 50°C and ensuring the placement of the TMV is as close to the outlet as physically possible, the Legionella risk is significantly minimised, if not totally removed.

With the wider use of mixer taps at outlets to control water temperature, the use of a TMV fitted at the hot water outlet on the water heater to control a potential scald risk is reduced in many situations.

On balance, even though the risk of legionellosis as a result of exposure to Legionella from a contaminated drinking water source in New Zealand is real, as proven by recent cases, the incidence remains low with only two to three cases identified in any given year. By following the reduction strategies listed opposite, the incidence of legionellosis from hot and cold water systems would be extremely rare.

ideally, any TMV should be fitted as close to the outlet as possible

24

December 2015/January 2016

NUTS & BOLTS

Common reduction strategies

Legionella bacteria are commonly found in soil and water but are usually present at levels that cannot be detected and do not pose a health risk at these levels. Because of their ubiquitous presence in the environment they are readily transported into water supplies and into water reticulation systems. Legionella grow in close association with other microorganisms, forming a complex layer on the surfaces of pipework and other wet surfaces. This is called the ‘biofilm’ layer and can be anywhere from a few microns to millimetres thick.

It is from the biofilm layer that Legionella contaminating the pipework of a water system bud off or slough off while the water is flowing to become free and potentially infect any users of the water system.

All water systems (especially pipe water systems, spa pools, cooling towers, and industrial processes) where the water temperature is between 20°C and less than 50°C can potentially become contaminated with Legionella bacteria, because this is the temperature range over which the bacteria will grow and multiply.

Because of this, there are a number of important steps that can be readily taken to reduce the ability of Legionella to thrive in a piped water system. The following three points should be adhered to when relying on thermal disinfection or pasteurisation to control for Legionella growth: 1. Hot water should be stored at or above 60°C 2. Hot water should reach 50°C at the outlet within one minute 3. Cold water should be stored below 20°C By adhering to these storage temperature regimes, growth of Legionella will be significantly reduced throughout any piped water system. More specifically, the following points should also be addressed in all water systems to prevent Legionella growth: • •

• • •

thermal control to prevent Legionella growth. When a TMV is fitted to the hot water heater, the water temperature at the outlets should still be delivered at a temperature at or above 50°C. Ideally, any TMV should be fitted as close to the outlet as possible, because this lessens the length of pipework where there is still a potential for Legionella to grow. This may result in the need to have a TMV at more than one outlet in the hot water system to reduce pipe runs holding warm water. Normal daily usage of the outlets will mean water is constantly flushed through the pipework, removing any build up in bacteria.

Where there is a strict requirement to control for a scalding risk, such as childcare premises, the TMV must be fitted at the hot water outlet, with the water storage temperature remaining at or above 60°C and the hot water delivered to the TMV above 55°C before being tempered by mixing with cold water as it passes through the TMV. ■ About the author: David Harte is a Senior Scientist at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR), a Government-owned Crown research institute established in 1992 to deliver knowledge, research and laboratory services. www.esr.cri.nz

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Avoid long (more than 2 metre) pipe runs with warm water (25 to 45°C) Ensure the water system is clear of rust, scale, sludge and organic matter, as these encourage the growth and proliferation of Legionella in the water system Remove dead legs (piping with no flowing water), as these are also places where Legionella can thrive All pipework should be lagged to insulate against thermal gain for cold water and thermal loss for hot water Where the source water is not from a potable supply or contains no active chlorine residual, consider implementing an appropriate water treatment process to maintain an active residual.

Thermostatic mixing valves

TMV are frequently fitted to the hot water outlet from water heaters as a means to control the water temperature at the hot water outlet. The TMV mixes the hot water with fresh cold water to deliver water at a predetermined temperature.

In a typical domestic setting, where the pipe run between the water heater and the outlet furthest from the heater is less than two metres, it is practicable to fit a single TMV on the water heater to control the water temperature without compromising

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Tech points NUTS & BOLTS

NEW MEMBRANE ROOFING GUIDE BRANZ has released the 2nd edition of its Membrane Roofing Good Practice Guide. The new guide incorporates updates to codes and standards and includes design and installation information with photos and drawings. Available in electronic ($45) and hard copy ($52+$8p&p) from the BRANZ bookstore at www.branz.co.nz/gpg or 0800 80 80 85 (press 2).

WATER FILTERS: RESTRICTED WORK Filtration systems that have been incorrectly installed and connected to the plumbing system have been a common subject of enquiries to the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGD Board), according to its November InfoBrief. The PGD Board says that its view is that generally the installation of water filters is considered to be sanitary plumbing and must be carried out by an authorised person.

This includes the range of filters, from those supplying the whole building to those with a single tap under the kitchen sink. Exceptions would be filters with a push-on connection fitted to the outlet of a tap or standalone tank/bottle type filters. Practitioners are asked to let the PGD Board know of any incorrect or unauthorised installations on 0800 743 262.

Technical snippets include updates for roofers and Canterbury tradies.

NOTICE FOR CANTERBURY DRAINLAYERS As of 1 September 2015, Environment Canterbury (ECAN) no longer provides approval for the installation of wastewater treatment systems that are a ‘Permitted Activity’, according to the PGD Board’s September Info Brief newsletter. It advises Canterbury drainlayers to check with their local council to find out the specific requirements when submitting building consent applications.

According to Info Brief, Timaru District Council now requires the following extra information when submitting applications: 1. A Producer Statement PS1 (design) from a suitably qualified person to accompany the design of the proposed system.

2. In addition to the usual details, the producer statement must state that the proposed design is in accordance with ECAN ‘permitted activity’ rules. If the design is not in accordance with these rules, it will require ECAN approval (resource consent).

3. System designers need to contact the Council’s building unit to apply for registration on the Southern Building Cluster Group producer statement register.

Please contact Jayson Ellis on 03 687 7466 or jayson.ellis@timdc.govt.nz with any enquiries.

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Wipe out

NUTS & BOLTS

This Consumer magazine article explains why you shouldn’t put flushable wipes down your pipes. Belinda Castles reports.

THE LABEL CLAIMS they’re ‘flushable’ but our test of 11 flushable wipes found these products don’t break down readily and could end up causing a plumbing headache. They’re also leading to costly problems at waste water treatment plants.

Marketing of flushable wipes has seen sales of these products grow steadily.

And if international figures are anything to go by, the trend is set to continue. A UK market research company estimated the global flushable wipes market will increase 12 percent a year to reach $US2.4 billion by 2018.

But the products have been attracting flak because of the plumbing problems they can cause. As our test shows, these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper.

Our test

We put 11 different flushable wipes and regular dry toilet paper to the test using an agitation device designed to replicate the waste water system. Each wipe was put in the agitator for 70 minutes.

Within minutes, toilet paper started to break down and had completely disintegrated after 70 minutes. However, all the flushable wipes in the agitator were still intact, apart from the occasional small tear.

In 2013, US consumer organisation Consumer Reports did a similar test. It put four flushable products in a benchtop mixer filled with water and it took at least 10 minutes for each wipe to break into small pieces.

Then there’s the cost. Compared with regular toilet paper flushable wipes aren’t cheap. We paid between $5 for a 42 pack and $5.99 for a 40 pack—that’s about 1215¢ per wipe.

Cleaning up

An article published in Water New Zealand’s journal Water in March says wipes are clogging drains and sewers and resulting in unnecessary plumbing bills.

Peter Whitehouse, Water New Zealand’s manager of advocacy and learning, says water authorities here and in Australia have reported problems largely attributed

to flushable wipes not breaking down and their tendency to snag. Blocked pump stations, clogged wet wells and sewer overflows are the result.

Hamilton City Council’s chief executive Richard Briggs says his council has seen a significant increase in blockages in the wastewater system this year, a problem it links to the growing use of flushable wipes. The wipes and other debris have to be collected at the treatment plant and disposed of in a special landfill. “[We] estimate maintenance, disposal costs and staff time for debris disposal and response to blockages is currently costing over $500,000 per year,” he says.

Water New Zealand also points to the negative impact these wipes are having in other countries. In 2013, a 15-tonne sewer blockage was found in London. The ‘fatberg’ could fill a double-decker bus and was a mix of flushed food fat and wet wipes.

Across the ditch, it’s estimated wet wipes have already cost Australian water services $A25 million to manage blockages and develop new infrastructure to cope with the increasing use of wipes.

Water New Zealand believes the products shouldn’t be called ‘flushable’ because they don’t break down in the waste system.

Richard Briggs agrees. He says just because a product is labelled ‘flushable’

Left: A pump blocked with what appears to be the remains of disposable wipes.

Right: Wipes on the screens at the Hamilton City Council wastewater treatment plant.

doesn’t necessarily mean it’s appropriate for a city’s waste water system, or that it will break down in the time it takes to travel from a private home to a treatment plant. Hamilton City Council has launched a ‘Bin It, Don’t Flush It’ campaign to drive home the message, he says.

It’s not just water treatment plants that are affected by flushable wipes. One of our members told us they used flushable wipes in their motorhome’s toilet. Despite the agitation while travelling he found they didn’t break up so had to be taken out by hand. Earlier this year, Fair Go reported the story of a woman who had to call in the plumber after flushable wipes blocked waste pipes. According to her plumber 40 to 50 percent of his call-outs involve problems caused by a build-up of wipes. >

all the wipes in our test were intact after 70 minutes in the agitator December 2015/January 2016

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Claims down the drain?

Kimberly-Clark, which makes Kleenex Cottonelle Flushable Cleansing Cloths, says its products are biodegradable and meet voluntary industry guidelines for assessing the flushability of non-woven products.

However, it says sewerage systems and stream flow conditions differ from houseto-house and recommends “no more than two wipes to be flushed at any one time”.

Asaleo Care, which makes Sorbent Flushable Wipes, says its products have been “scientifically and independently tested to support claims they are flushable, dispersible and biodegradable”.

The company says its flushable wipes will “pass through well-maintained domestic sewerage and septic tank systems without causing blockages”. And herein lies a problem.

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ Chief Executive Greg Wallace says the testing he’s aware of has been done using new PVC pipes in a lab environment, which is not reflective of most New Zealand pipes.

“Flushable wipes may not be such an issue in new suburbs which have PVC pipes but the majority of New Zealand homes have old earthenware or clay pipes. These are highly susceptible to ground movement and tree roots and these imperfections mean the wipes grab and stick and may cause a blockage,” Greg says. Unblocking a drain can cost the homeowner around $200.

In Greg’s opinion, the only type of wipe you should flush is regular toilet paper.

Water New Zealand is also critical of the voluntary industry guidelines used to assess flushability claims. They don’t address the issue of wipes snagging in sewers, says Peter Whitehouse.

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December 2015/January 2016

Above: Hamilton City Council’s consumer flyer has had a good response.

In response to the issues being raised, the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council, which represents manufacturers, has a working group looking into flushable wipes. While the council says its members can substantiate product claims, some are reviewing the information on their packaging.

We say •

•

Don’t flush any wipes down the pipes. Our test found even ones claiming to be flushable don’t disintegrate like toilet paper.

In our view, manufacturers shouldn’t be claiming these products are ‘flushable’ when they may not break down in real world conditions. ■

This article is reproduced courtesy of Consumer magazine and appeared in the October 2015 edition. www.consumer.org.nz

In 2008, EDANA, the international association that represents the nonwovens and related industries, together with its North American counterpart INDA, developed voluntary guidelines for assessing the flushability of wipes— also known as non-woven consumer products. Now in their third edition, the guidelines set out requirements that products should meet before making a flushable claim. The latest edition also recommends a ‘do not flush’ logo be put on non-flushable wipes. But this doesn’t solve the problem we found in our test: flushable wipes don’t break down like toilet paper.

NUTS & BOLTS

Gas Ring This issue’s updates for the gasfitting community.

Sticky residue: seeking a solution

In the April/May edition of NZ Plumber, we reported on gasfitter concerns around failed components in a number of LPG appliances. Oily residue had been found on the gas control valves. Rinnai New Zealand Managing Director Ray Ferner said previous analysis of the material in some gas valves had pointed to phthalates (‘plasticisers’ used in rubber components) being extracted from the regulator pigtails and possibly gas supply hoses. However, there had recently been some suggestion of other contaminants in the LPG, he noted. LPG Association Executive Director Peter Gilbert assured the magazine that the Association and LPG suppliers would be working with industry to identify the cause of these problems.

Six samples provided to the Association for testing identified the contaminant as phthalates. The Association has agreed to cover the cost of testing any future samples from failed appliance components, as well as replacing the pigtails and regulator on the next five affected sites. “This is to enable a more exhaustive matching of phthalate residues,” said Peter Gilbert in the October edition of

Gasline, adding that the Association executive is determined to find the root cause of current issues and establish a solution.

Updating gas installation safety verification Standard

NZS 5255:2014 A1 (Amendment 1), published by Standards New Zealand in September, corrects an omission of several performance criteria in the gas installation assessment checklist in Table B2 of Appendix B. The checklist now provides a complete set of criteria to carry out the safety checks in the Standard. NZS 5255 enables authorised gasfitters to assess the safety of a gas installation when reconnecting or restoring gas supply under regulation 52A of the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010. The amended Standard may be used in other circumstances where gasfitters are called on to provide an assessment of the ongoing safety of a gas installation.

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December 2015/January 2016

29

NUTS & BOLTS

Immediate danger!

A new bulletin from Energy Safety outlines how it deals with notifications from gasfitters of situations of immediate danger.

GASFITTERS HAVE AN obligation to notify the owner/ occupier and WorkSafe (Energy Safety) of ‘unsafe’ installations.

The regulations state: Obligation to notify WorkSafe of danger (clause 10) (1) Any person carrying out gasfitting (including a person acting under an exemption) who has reasonable grounds to believe that any gas installation or gas appliance presents immediate danger to life or property must, as soon as practicable, advise both of the following of the danger:

(a) the owner or occupier of the property where the danger exists; and

(b) WorkSafe.

(1A) The advice in subclause (1) must include—

(a) details of the nature of the danger; and

(b) how and why the gas installation or gas appliance presents an immediate danger to life or property; and

(c) any steps that have been taken, or that the person believes must be taken, to minimise or eliminate the danger.

(2) A person giving advice under subclause (1)(a) must also advise the owner or occupier to inform the gas retailer or gas wholesaler of the danger.

(3) A person commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a level 2 penalty if the person has reasonable grounds to believe that any gas installation or gas appliance presents an immediate danger to life or property and the person fails to comply with this regulation.

Safe or unsafe?

The obligation to notify the owner/occupier and then WorkSafe is only when there is an immediate danger to life or property.

Immediate danger isn’t defined in the regulations, but can be considered to be when the agent of harm is already present, such as escaping gas or an appliance spilling products of combustion.

A non-compliant installation is not necessarily unsafe, let alone immediately dangerous. Unsafe is not the direct opposite of safe. Safe means there is no significant risk of harm or damage. Unsafe means there is a significant risk of serious harm or significant damage.

There is a spectrum of safety from safe through to unsafe. An installation built to the cited standards is generally considered to be safe. At the other end of the spectrum, regulations 11 through 14 define unsafe situations. If a non-compliant installation does not meet any of the ‘deemed unsafe’ criteria, then it is somewhere in the spectrum between safe and unsafe.

Note that regulation 93 states that despite any current noncompliance, an installation may continue to be used providing it is not now unsafe and was compliant when installed.

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December 2015/January 2016

Seeking permission A gasfitter has no powers under the regulations to make safe an immediately dangerous situation that he discovers by disabling the appliance or turning off the gas. The gasfitter must seek the permission of the owner or occupier.

Regulation 9 means the owner or occupier has to ensure their installation is safe. An owner or operator commits an offence if they knowingly or recklessly use or allow another person to use an installation if it is unsafe. Regulation 75A places extra, specific, responsibilities on landlords to ensure their tenanted properties are safe and the occupants have safety instructions.

This is why it is important that the notifying gasfitter provides as much information as possible to the owner or occupier. The more informed the consumer is, the more ‘knowing’ they are and thus the greater is their responsibility and motivation to act.

Supplying information When reporting an immediate danger to Energy Safety, the gasfitter should supply as much information about the situation as possible. As well as the information specified in subclause 1A above, it is also helpful to supply information on why the gasfitter was there in the first place; specific details of the age of the installation; and what the reaction of the owner or occupier has been.

When informed of an ‘unsafe’ situation, Energy Safety will assess the information and respond accordingly. If it is decided that the installation is unsafe, Energy Safety will contact the owner, advise them of their obligations and request that the situation is made safe within a certain amount of time.

If the consumer has not already acted on the advice provided by the gasfitter, they will generally comply once contacted

by Energy Safety. If necessary, Energy Safety may ask the gas supplier to cease supply if the immediate danger has not been remedied.

NUTS & BOLTS

Is it unsafe?

It is critical that gasfitters familiarise themselves with the contents of the Gas Regulations that specifically describe what is deemed to be unsafe, as these are the most likely drivers of enforcement. The Regulations also cite specific situations which are deemed to be unsafe.

Regulation 11 of the Gas Regulations defines unsafe distribution systems or gas installations. Networks and installations are unsafe if: • Measures are not in place to ensure: - a release of gas is detectable or ignition of release is prevented - gas is not released in an uncontrolled manner and ensure that any oxygen and gas is prevented from mixing in a pipe - persons are not exposed to harmful products of combustion of gas - persons and property are not exposed to excessive forces - the failure of any control or safety device does not expose the downstream equipment to excessive pressure above the rated pressure of any distribution system and equipment downstream of that control or safety device

-

the effective isolation and shut-off of the gas supply, including during an emergency.

• the safety-related characteristics of any fittings are impaired • pipe joints are inadequate and unreliable • the fittings have a gas leak or are capable of being operated in a hazardous way • the fittings are exposed to a pressure exceeding their maximum rated pressure • a pipe is inadequately protected against the risk of damage or corrosion; or subject to forces beyond its design criteria; or there is insufficient space, access, lighting, ventilation, or facilities to operate, maintain, test, and inspect any fittings required to be operated, maintained, tested, or inspected; or • fittings subject to high temperatures can create a risk of ignition of flammable materials or a risk of injury to persons or damage to property.

Regulation 12 defines additional rules for gas installations.

Regulation 13 defines additional rules for gas appliances.

Regulation 14 defines additional rules for the supply of gas.

Read the Gas Regulations at www.legislation.govt.nz

Non-compliant installations More often than not, the ‘unsafe’ notifications Energy Safety receives are more of a non-compliance nature than a safety matter. In such cases Energy Safety informs the owner of their obligations and the non-compliance discovered. Energy Safety will advise that, while their installation may not be unsafe, they should consider bringing the installation into the current compliance.

Energy Safety occasionally receives an ‘unsafe’ (noncompliant) notification some months after it was first discovered and it appears that Energy Safety was only informed after a consumer did not respond to the original notifying gasfitter’s notification and offer for repair.

When these consumers have been contacted by Energy Safety, they have complained that they felt the gasfitter was applying undue pressure. In such cases Energy Safety will advise the consumer that they have no duty to use the services of the notifying gasfitter and are free to seek a second opinion from another gasfitter.

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Plumbed Up Plumbing

Online notification There is a form on the Energy Safety website for the notification of immediately dangerous installations. If a gasfitter discovers an immediately dangerous installation they can use this form to notify Energy Safety. Before the gasfitter clicks on the ‘Submit’ button to send the data to Energy Safety, they can click on the ‘Generate PDF’ button. This will create a PDF version of the form that can be sent to the owner. This must be done before the submit button; otherwise the data is lost.

A gasfitter may also use this form to generate a PDF form for non-compliances that they can send to installation owners. In these cases, they do not need to send it to Energy Safety. ■ Find the bulletin at http://www.energysafety.govt.nz/about/ publications/publications-for-industry/industry-bulletins (under Gas Safety Bulletins)

0800 500 484 apexvalves.co.nz

December 2015/January 2016

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NUTS & BOLTS

Best practice:

underfloor heating Best practice advice from Central Heating New Zealand to enable systems to perform well when installed.

1. Planning

As with any project, good planning for the integration of the system in the house is paramount. Discussion between the architect, builder, heating installer and customer will ensure that all parties work together and that everyone’s expectations can be met.

Sometimes changes occur during the build process that affect the performance of the heating system.

This can happen when alterations to the building elements are made without one party knowing, either after the system has been designed or after the installation. Unseen factors such as thermal bridging are harder to identify and rectify afterwards.

2. Design

The heating system should be designed to the Institute of Refrigeration Heating & Air Conditioning (IRHACE) external design conditions and data for the particular building location, to achieve at least 21°C in living areas and 17°C in bedroom and hall areas.

Some underfloor heating suppliers have the capability to complete the

Above: Underfloor heating pipes being laid above insulation and tied to mesh.

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December 2015/January 2016

calculations and design the system.

Mechanical engineers also perform this requirement. At the design stage, the possible requirement for supplementary heating will be determined. The ability of the heating system needs to be aligned with the customer’s expectations so that there are no surprises at the end of the project.

3. Insulation

Insulation under the heated floor slab is required to limit downward heat loss. A minimum of 50mm of polystyrene should be used throughout the heated area.

Thermal bridging is when heat is transferred through conduction to areas surrounding the slab, such as escaping to concrete patios and paths. To help mitigate these issues, perimeter insulation should be used.

BRANZ has technical information on how this can be achieved.

Another method of achieving higher performance is by using an isolated screed floor over the construction slab.

4. Floor coverings Floor coverings affect the heat transfer into rooms. Hard surfaces, such as tiles, transfer heat best, but most Kiwis prefer carpeted or wood floors, which work fine. Having minimum thickness underlay is sensible, as is only having engineered laminate wood floors either direct glued or floating. Expert wood flooring suppliers are happy with underfloor heating, as they know it is commonplace in the rest of the world.

Avoid those that are shy of their products being on heated floors.

5. Heat retention

The use of curtains improves heat retention and may be essential for good heating performance, especially in high heat loss homes

Above: Underfloor heating pipes in concrete slab.

with a large external wall to floor ratio and extensive glazing.

Strangely, the requirement for this is sometimes overlooked in high-end houses and the heating system is expected to cope. Two storey houses that only have the ground floor heated will also put extra load on the heating system.

6. Running costs

For the lowest running costs at living temperatures, in-slab floor heating requires almost constant running. The floor slab is a large mass that is easier to keep warm than to reheat every day.

The use of floor-sensing thermostats enables minimum floor temperatures to be set to maximise economy.

7. Helpful resources

There are many installation best practices, and BRANZ has a useful publication on Embedded Floor Heating. Some heating suppliers offer underfloor heating installation training, which should be undertaken to ensure you get the best out of the design and installation. ■ This article was supplied by Central Heating New Zealand www.centralheating.co.nz

Photographs courtesy of Central Heating New Zealand.

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INNOVATION

Waste to water A new farm effluent filtration system is attracting a lot of attention, as Ross Miller reports.

THE NEW SYSTEM—which turns raw dairy shed effluent into clean, clear water— could revolutionise how farmers deal with their ‘grey and black water’ issues.

Matamata-based water filtration company FORSI Innovations showcased the system at this year’s Fieldays. It is hoped it will change current farming practices by eliminating the need for effluent ponds, helping farmers remain compliant and reducing contamination of waterways.

Fit to drink

FORSI’s Craig Hawes says the company has been working on the technology for eight years. “We have finally come to the point where we have got everything where we want it, and we have the test results to show that it’s of a drinking water standard.” He is not advocating that the filtered water be used for human consumption, but once people put the source out of their minds, it could be consumed, he says.

It is the clean water end product that separates this from other filtration systems. And, while the theory is simple enough, it has required some smart engineering by this family firm run by Craig, his brother Darren and father Terry.

Terry says the technology could have a wide range of applications, such as factory waste, wineries and even human sewage. “It’s a real game changer. I don’t

Above: Craig, Darren and father Terry.

think people realise how big an impact this is going to have.” The company actually filtered the water a long time ago, but spent years devising a cheaper way of doing it.

A former sharemilker, Terry knows the difficulties around dealing with effluent compliance.

Filtering process

The system is housed in a 12-metre shipping container, sits on a concrete pad next to the dairy shed and is plumbed

I don’t think people realise how big an impact this is going to have into the pipework that is set into the ground. When hosed off, dairy shed yard effluent runs into a large sand trap, where heavier solids like sand, silt and stones are settled out before the lighter particles flow through to a small sump.

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December 2015/January 2016

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INNOVATION

The effluent is then pumped up and over the FORSI slope screen separation system, where fibrous material larger than .8mm is screened off and falls into a solids holding bunker. This leaves a dark green liquid, which is held in a 30,000 litre blending tank.

The liquid is pumped into the main system and subjected to a rigorous treatment that separates the fine suspended solids.

“The by-product of this stage is a sludge that looks like chocolate mousse,” says Craig. This product is augured up and over the bunker wall and mixed with the separated solids from the slope screen. “These two products can then be composted down to create a natural fertiliser; other trace elements can be added to create the perfect blend for the soil type on the farm.”

The liquid that leaves the separation section is a clear liquid with a slight green tinge. From here the liquid is pumped through an ultrafiltration (UF) and nano membrane set and final polishing with UV and into the clean water tank ready to be reused.

Fully automated

The entire system is fully automated with sensors in all critical areas to ensure quality of the liquid is maintained throughout the process. Should any

Above: The effluent recycling system is housed in a shipping container.

parameter not meet standard, says Craig, “the liquid is diverted back to the blending tank. An alert is then sent to both the farmer and the service technician advising of a problem. The automated control system can be accessed anywhere in the world by our service team via a modem.”

As part of the automation is a rain divert valve, the system will know right at the start of the process if rainwater or effluent is flowing into the sand trap. If it is rainwater, then this clean water will be diverted to be run to another area.

From start to finish, the system can process 30,000 litres of raw effluent in about five hours and runs on less than 8kW of power. The system can run on a farm of up to 800 cows. It would also work on farms with larger herds, but would require larger componentry, or two containers sitting side by side.

The system costs approximately $350,000 depending on cow numbers and effluent loading. This price includes the processing plant and the automated slope screen separation system. Site works are an additional cost. ■

Above: Bird’s eye view of the blending tanks.

December 2015/January 2016

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INDUSTRY TALK

Racing line

Three prize-winning tradies enjoyed an adrenalin-fuelled supercar experience at the racetrack.

Driving at high speed in a supercar is the kind of experience petrolheads dream of. For three Kiwi tradesmen, the dream came true in September, when they got to race in a Lamborghini Murcielago at the Hampton Downs Racetrack courtesy of Rinnai and Plumbing World. Anthony of Lower Hutt, Andrew of Mt Maunganui and Mark of Christchurch—the three winners of the supercar hot lap experience—joined Rinnai representatives Gary Brennan and Peter Webb for the day at the 2.7km track.

Rain didn’t deter the diehard speed demons as they took the corners at breakneck pace. “The weather was a bit of a downer

Above (from left): Anthony and Andrew. Below left: Peter and the Lambo.

but we still got to do it, so that was good,” said Anthony. When asked for his top three highlights of the day, Anthony quipped that it was “the car, the car and the car”. He was so busy watching the road and the corners coming up fast that he didn’t even notice what speeds they clocked.

“A bloody good day,” said Mark of the experience, adding that he’d definitely do it again. Anthony would too… “So that I could try the Ferrari next time!”

InSinkErator acquires Parex

InSinkErator is looking to strengthen its NZ presence by purchasing Parex.

At the end of September, InSinkErator announced its acquisition of Parex Industries Ltd. InSinkErator is the world’s largest manufacturer of food waste disposers for home and commercial use, and this move is expected to strengthen InSinkErator’s presence in New Zealand, where Parex has represented the brand as a supplier for more than 30 years.

“Parex has helped InSinkErator develop a strong reputation in the household disposer market in New Zealand, and we look forward to building on that market strength for our InSinkErator brand with this acquisition,” says InSinkErator President Tim Ferry. “We also believe Parex’s marketing and customer service strategy for New Zealand will help us expand the InSinkErator business in other global markets, positioning us to better serve our customers’ needs.”

Parex employees will continue to work for this New Zealand supplier of plumbing and kitchen appliances under the new ownership. “Parex already has a smart and energetic management team in place that will remain, led by General Manager Barnaby Thompson,” says Tim Ferry. “His leadership, along with the vision of his predecessor, former Managing 36

December 2015/January 2016

Director Murray Higgs, will go a long way toward the success of this organisation and its new role with InSinkErator.”

InSinkErator is a business of US-based global technology and manufacturing company Emerson.

INDUSTRY TALK

We need more plumbers!

There was some good discussion around apprentice training at the Master Plumbers half-yearly meeting.

In his opening market update, Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace noted the urgent need for more tradespeople in New Zealand. Over the next three years, 32,000 extra people would be required to meet construction industry demand, he said.

In Auckland, the need for more plumbers is higher than for other trades, with a 58% shortfall in plumbers compared with a 31% shortfall in carpenters and a 17% shortfall in electricians.

“Auckland alone needs 600 new plumbers,” said Greg.

Auckland is, of course, a particular pinch point, as is Christchurch. “Growth in national residential building is being driven by the rapid growth in Auckland’s activity—126 percent growth from 2013 to the predicted $9.6b peak in 2018.

Canterbury’s current peak in residential rebuilds is expected to fall from 2017 onwards.”

Through its ‘loopy rules’ reduction project (see p14), the government is aiming to cut building compliance and costs.

However, to complete the circle, there needs to be sufficient numbers of tradespeople to do the actual work.

Association delegates at the half-yearly meeting expressed a number of reactions to the training shortfall, including the need for the government to continue with its reboot subsidies for employers training apprentices.

According to MasterLink South Island Manager Roger Herd, the calibre of candidates has never been higher, and taking up a trade is becoming desirable once again among young people.

So, what is stopping some businesses taking apprentices on?

Negative perceptions around cost, effort and initial value from the apprentice were all raised as possible barriers, but as Master Plumbers Chairman John Leen pointed out, without trainees there is no future for the industry. “Training is the way to go,” he said. “It’s so hard to employ tradespeople in the current market and there’s a lot of poaching going on, which is disappointing.”

To encourage businesses to take on apprentices, MasterLink had been offering a $2,000 Kickstart employer grant, noted Greg, and it was also running a major recruitment drive in high schools. “We could place 20-40 apprentices today if there were enough businesses willing to place them.”

Above: Apprentice training is the way to address skills shortages.

Supervision changes

In November, the Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board (PGD Board) sought industry feedback on proposed changes to Gazette notices relating to supervision. Feedback received noted a lack of clarity around how supervision should be implemented.

As a result, the PGD Board has produced new ‘best practice’ supervision guidelines, together with an audit checklist and a job description template. The Board says it will use the guidelines to determine when to take action against those not exercising proper supervision.

You are urged to read, understand and follow the new guidelines, which will take effect when the approved Gazette notice has been published. Find them at www.pgdb.co.nz/legislation-policies/ policies

December 2015/January 2016

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INDUSTRY TALK

High flyers Some new records have been set for highest scorers in the PGD Board registration exams—and celebrated in Wellington recently.

The PGD Board’s annual Merit of Excellence Awards honour the previous year’s top Certifying exam achievers. This year’s event was held at the PGD Board’s Wellington office.

Auckland plumber and gasfitter Min-Sue Choi, who received the Gasfitting award, has become the highest scorer ever in the PGD Board’s certifying exams since the Board took the exams over from NZQA. Last year, Min sat and passed his Certifying Pumbing and Gasfitting exams with a pass mark of 98.5 in each.

Registered at Licensed level in both trades since 2012, he is now eligible to become registered as a Certifier in each.

The Plumbing award went to Rhys van Bunnik, who achieved a pass mark of 94. Rhys, who is from Palmerston North, became registered as a Certifying Plumber at the start of this licensing year.

Wanganui-based Grant Little also broke existing records, achieving the highest score for the Certifying Drainlayer exam since its introduction in 2011, having done the same for the Licensed Drainlayer exam earlier the same year. Already

Above: The winners are presented with their awards in Wellington.

registered as a Certifying Plumber and Gasfitter, Grant will be eligible to do the same for drainlaying once he completes his 24 months as a Licensed Drainlayer.

Rheem NZ buys Peter Cocks

Rheem NZ moves into electric hot water heaters with the purchase of Peter Cocks.

Christchurch-based specialist water cylinder manufacturer Peter Cocks (2010) Ltd is to become part of Rheem New Zealand, subject to Commerce Commission clearance.

Rheem NZ announced in October that it had signed a conditional agreement to acquire the Peter Cocks business and assets. Steve Bullock, General Manager of Rheem NZ, says the two companies are a natural fit. “Peter Cocks is a very strong South Island brand, popular with plumbers and consumers. Given the continuing rebuild activity and buoyant local economy, we see significant benefits in having a manufacturing presence in Christchurch.”

Steve Bullock says Peter Cocks has developed a strong position in the electric hot water cylinder market sector, with a range of eco products suitable for connecting to solar panels, heat pumps and wetbacks as well as the standard low pressure and mains pressure electric cylinders.

“We are committed to maintaining our position as a globally competitive New Zealand manufacturer, and the acquisition of Peter Cocks will allow us to gain economies of scale and improve our competitiveness as well as expanding our product range.”

Peter Cocks’ was established in 1963.

With manufacturing facilities based in Bromley, Christchurch, the company employs around 19 staff. Owners John & Sue Cagney, say there are delighted 38

December 2015/January 2016

that Rheem intends to maintain and build on Peter Cocks current manufacturing capability. “Discussions with Rheem have indicated that they will be a very good owner of the business, and the retention of the presence in Christchurch was an important part of our decision to sell, and is a tribute to the quality of the local team.”

Above: The acquisition will expand Rheem's product range.

INDUSTRY TALK

Sam’s spot

You never know who might be watching or listening, warns Sam Tyson.

Alex, our apprentice, has been to his first block course and has come back with a list of things to achieve before his next course.

One of the tasks is around care and timeliness and has nine standards to be observed over 20 consecutive days. If he doesn’t meet a standard on one of those days then it restarts.

Two of the standards are acceptable language and behaviour.

So, what is acceptable while you’re on site? Well, I guess you can behave or say what you like if no one is watching or listening.

But one thing I always bang on about at our toolbox meetings is you never know who’s watching or within earshot.

I have just bought a new house and the other day I had a few of our guys there putting in an underfloor gas ducted system.

When talking to my neighbour later that day, she mentioned that her mother-in-law was staying and that she’d overheard a scream coming from under the house at my place followed by some very colourful language shouted to the other guys about a bleeping big spider.

So I asked the guys, “Who screamed like a girl and swore their head off when they saw a spider?” Dale sheepishly put his hand up and said, “It was me; you should have seen it man, it was as big as my palm and had these long legs—it was freaky!” While my neighbour’s mother-in-law did say it didn’t really bother her hearing that type of language, it just goes to show that, when you’re not being mindful of what you are saying, you never know who is listening.

While this was more or less an understandable reactive incident, we have had issues where customers have overheard conversations from our guys talking on their mobiles to our office or suppliers, or each other, which have come back to bite

Sam Tyson.

us on the bum when the client has repeated what they’ve heard.

We now get our guys to go out to their vans when practical to make their phone calls, to reduce the risk of being overheard.

Without getting too paranoid, it does pay to be always aware that someone may be listening… or watching. A great example of someone watching, of course, is the TV programme Target, with their hidden cameras exposing bad behaviour by tradesmen.

I used these examples with Alex when helping him gain an understanding of what my expectations were for his 20-day challenge, and how his behaviour could either adversely damage my business’s reputation or put it in a shining light. At the time of writing this, he is halfway through, and so far so good—he hasn’t missed a beat!

Recent convictions

The clampdown on unauthorised work continues.

•

•

Two Hawkes Bay men were sentenced in the Hastings District Court in October for carrying out sanitary plumbing and drainlaying work when not authorised. Timothy Barley and Roderick MacKenzie were convicted and fined a combined total of $1,100 plus $452 in solictors’ fees. Both men were identified as working unlawfully by a Hastings District Council building compliance officer. “While the vast majority of tradespeople in Hawkes Bay do the right thing by the consumer and ensure they hold a current authorisation, there remain a few who are undermining their efforts,” said Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board (PGD Board) Chief Executive Martin Sawyers.

In Christchurch, Grant Longman was seen carrying out gasfitting work unlawfully by a Certifying Gasfitter working on the same building site. Longman removed the gas caps from a live LPG gas system and installed gas flares by fixing them to a gas installation and connecting them to a live gas supply. The Certifying Gasfitter took immediate steps to

make the system safe before reporting the matter. Longman was sentenced in October to a fine of $2,500, plus court costs of $130 and a solicitor’s fee of $113.

Report a cowboy app

As NZ Plumber went to print, the PGD Board was set to launch a new app as part of its focus on unauthorised work. The R.A.C (report a cowboy) app allows on-the-spot submission of reports of non-compliant or other installations, together with photo and/or video evidence. It also has the ability to log GPS coordinates and allows those reporting through the app to request confidentiality. It is available through the App Store and Google Play.

December 2015/January 2016

39

INDUSTRY TALK

Complaints & discipline

A new ‘triage’ approach to complaints is being taken at the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board.

NZ Plumber recently received a call from a plumber who was involved in a hearing, and was astounded by the costs involved.

He had installed PVC pipe with insufficient UV rating on a property owner’s fence line and the owner had subsequently refused to pay the bill and complained to the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGD Board).

The plumber rectified the problem before the PGD Board began its investigation, but almost three years on he was required to attend a hearing. “The estimated cost of the investigation and hearing was $18,000, including flying an investigator down from Auckland,” he said. “All for a job that came in under $1,000.” At the hearing in September, he was fined $1,500.

A recently announced initiative by the PGD Board will be welcome news to tradespeople facing complaints of this kind, according to Chief Executive Martin Sawyers.

At the Master Plumbers half-yearly meeting in October, Martin provided delegates with a presentation on changes that are underway at the Board. These include a new ‘triage’ system for handling complaints.

“Many complaints received relate to disputes between customers and tradespeople, and don’t involve significant health and safety issues,” he said. “If complaints are minor, and don’t present significant health and safety issues or involve repeated poor behaviour by the tradesperson, they will now, in the first instance, be dealt with by way of mediation, where possible.

“An initial phone call to the tradesperson and the customer will be made by Board staff to try and resolve the dispute without the need for a full investigation. It is hoped this will resolve the vast majority of these types of complaint. On many occasions, this will also be followed up by a letter to the tradesperson, reminding them of their obligations.”

As a result, said Martin, the PGD Board hopes to resolve most of these relatively minor matters, which means it will no longer be spending huge amounts of money on investigating them.

“Instead that money will be spent on serious complaints and matters where the tradesperson has been warned previously— but clearly isn’t getting the message.”

The Board has also appointed a full-time investigator. “This has significantly cut costs in the investigation process, as resources

40

December 2015/January 2016

in this area were previously externally contracted out,” explained Martin. “Where we were receiving 900 hours of investigation resource before, we now get 1,600-1,700 hours for a similar amount of money.”

As part of the increased focus on unauthorised work, the PGD Board has also developed and made a new mobile phone Report a Cowboy (R.A.C) app (see previous page).

This allows tradespeople to submit photo and video evidence of illegal worksites, false advertising on vans and so on. This information will allow the Board to identify and target resources at problem areas. “The app allows every licensed tradesperson to become the eyes and ears of the Board around the country, and will help squeeze out illegal operators quickly,” said Martin.

In a significant change from the past, the tradesperson no longer has to fill out a complaint form. “The only requirement now will be to pass on information to the PGD Board using the app. This will assist in identifying and holding to account those people who are carrying out unauthorised work.”

Unauthorised work is, however, a problem that can’t be solved simply by prosecuting more people, commented Martin. “We also need to make consumers more aware of the risks involved in hiring unauthorised people and turn off consumer demand for that work.

“We will be doing this through the media and we are also approaching the insurance industry to see if they will help us promote the message. We already have support from most Councils and will be seeking the assistance of others, along with major construction companies and corporate identities.”

To report an illegal operator, call Board investigator Jayson Thomas on 0800 74 32 62 or email jayson@pgdb.co.nz

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INDUSTRY TALK

West Coast welcome

CPD combined with good company at a recent West Coast meeting for the Canterbury Master Plumbers.

There was a strong turnout of West Coast plumbers at the October Canterbury Master Plumbers general meeting, held in Greymouth. With the Association’s boundaries stretching as far as the West Coast, regular meetings have taken place over this way for some years to make sure everyone is included.

For this one, it was decided to take a new CPD course to West Coast members. Dux South Island Regional Manager Robert Campbell had mentioned a Reln surface water drainage course, which had just been submitted for accreditation with the PGD Board. In the nick of time, the course received approval for 10 CPD points for drainlayers—and fortunately, almost all members in the region have drainage licences.

Robert, together with Dux General Manager Jeff La Haye and Territory Manager Stuart Tait all attended the event and say they thoroughly enjoyed engaging with members. Stuart was the course presenter, giving participants an understanding of the design of an effective drainage system. The training covers such topics as potential secondary flow of water into a drainage area, and impervious and pervious areas for the design of channel drainage systems. It also shows how to recognise surface water channel flow rates and gives an overview of surface water channel specifications. Attendees also gain an overview of trench drains.

Then it was over to Dux General Manager Jeff La Haye, who provided a very interesting insight into the construction industry over the next few years, focussing mainly on Christchurch and Auckland.

In Christchurch, for example, he said, there are clear signs that the residential house construction market is slowing, while commercial construction is ramping up, with several major government projects coming on line.

“Overall Christchurch and Auckland will continue to dominate construction activity around the country for the next two to three years, and in Auckland we will see smaller sections, which are already down to 249sq m. The government also has over $10b in infrastructure construction underway, with most of these projects due to be completed within the next three to five years.”

Jeff noted that the general building boom is expected to continue until 2020, reaching a peak in 2016/17, with a predicted value of $36b. “The value of all building and construction

/DWHVW PRUWJDJH VSHFLDOV RXW QRZ

Above: Eyes down for the course.

Above: An interesting fence spotted by Steve Woodbury on the way to Hokitika.

nationally is still forecast to reach unprecedented levels, with a sustained rate not seen in 40 years,” he said. “For example, in 2016, construction value will be 30 percent higher than the last peak in 2007.”

The meeting wrapped up with tea, coffee and nibbles at the Union Hotel, shouted by the Association. “This went down a treat and I wish to personally thank the West Coasters for their brilliant attendance,” says Canterbury Association member Steve Woodbury, who helped organise the event. “Our numbers on the night were 30.”

Feedback from the course was also extremely good, says Steve.

“I personally found it very beneficial and recommend anyone who has the chance to go. The meeting was something special and shows just how important Associations like this are for the plumbing industry.”

For a no cost, no obligation chat, contact: 027 201 3470 jonathan.parsons@sprattfinancial.co.nz

 Spratt Financial Services, Level 1, 3 Morton Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1010  P O Box 99 481, Newmarket, Auckland 1149  Telephone: 09 307 8200  Email: investments@spratt.co.nz  Official Website: http://www.sprattfinancial.co.nz

42

December 2015/January 2016

Jonathan Parsons

Anita Bedwell

027 531 7771 anita.bedwell@sprattfiancial.co.nz

INDUSTRY TALK

Train with TradePoint Have you made tracks for TradePoint? It’s the go-to place for training and information for our trades.

All licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers can access Tradepoint, an information and training resource for our trades that’s powered by Master Plumbers.

Business owners with Master Plumbers’ membership have an additional profile that allows them to manage their company’s use of the resource. By associating people with the company, others can also benefit from your membership.

TradePoint is much more than a website. TradePoint Partners also deliver face-to-face training and provide products and services. For example, you can visit the TradePoint website to order and purchase:

•

Profitable Team Boot Camp from Plumbers Coach Confined Space and Gas Detection Training with Safety ‘n Action Associated Electrical Tradesperson Training with E-tec First Aid Training with NZ Red Cross Online gas certification with CertsOnline.

• • • •

With major changes coming for workplace health and safety, the TradePoint website is also taking bookings for a Health and Safety Seminar Roadshow, being presented by Master Plumbers, WorkSafe New Zealand and ACC. The Roadshow has toured the major centres and heads to provincial centres in February.

Other TradePoint projects include You Tube videos to promote apprenticeships in our trades (view at facebook.com/ masterplumbersnz), business contracts seminars, and train the workplace trainer development courses, which will be rolled out around the country next year.

Don’t have a log-in yet? Contact TradePoint and the team will get one through to you. Danielle Heath: dheath@masterplumbers.org.nz It’s all at www.tradepoint.org.nz

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December 2015/January 2016

43

AROUND ASSOCIATIONS

Winners in Waikato THE WINTEC ATRIUM provided a contemporary, spacious venue for the first-ever awards night for the Waikato Master Plumbers Association in September. Eleven award categories were presented on the night, with recognition given to the region’s top tradespeople.

Guests enjoyed drinks and canapés before being seated for the welcome speeches.

Hamilton Mayor Julie Hardaker opened the event, saying that the city was experiencing a period of growth that would require a focus on apprentice training to ensure sufficient skilled tradespeople.

“A year in the making saw Waikato Association members receive some prestigious awards ranging from first year apprentices through to Plumber of

the Year,” says awards organiser David Whitfield. “Over 100 people attended, including our key sponsors—without whom this would not have been possible— our CEO and National President.

“Feedback from the Mayor and our sponsors indicated that this type of event

is a ‘no brainer’. It echoes the things we should be doing in our industry— rewarding others for their skills and personal attributes. The night was an overwhelming success and we are now working on next year’s event, which we hope will be even bigger and better.”

Waikato Master Plumber of the Year At the tender age of 12, Julie Stephens would help her father Paul lay out drainage pipes ready to go in the ground. She enjoyed it so much that she carried on to do a plumbing apprenticeship and now works at the family firm, Taumarunui Plumbing, together with her husband Michael.

At the awards night, this family business was acknowledged for its business excellence, winning 2015 Waikato Plumber of the Year, sponsored by the Waikato Association. Co-directors Paul and Coral Stephens were at the event to collect the award. “Taumarunui Plumbing has strong work ethics, a good awareness of legislative requirements and a great workforce. As a team, they have achieved so much and also passionately support the local community,” said the judges.

The couple have owned and operated Taumarunui Plumbing since 1997, when they purchased the business. For Paul it was a natural step, as he has been involved in plumbing and farm water supply in the Ruapehu and King Country regions for over 35 years. Coral had previously worked in banking for 19 years, so brought valuable management skills. Both are extremely active in the local community, and the business sponsors a wide range of schools, sports teams and events.

44

December 2015/January 2016

Above: Paul and Coral Stephens with some of the Taumarunui Plumbing team.

As well as its core plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying services, the company has three farm water supply technicians, two septic tank cleaning operators, a fleet of portable toilets and a water delivery truck.

Over the years, it has grown to 12 field staff, six admin staff and a small base of support staff. New roles have been created in leadership, health & safety, and sales & quality control. A new general manager position also allows Paul and Coral to focus on the day-to-day operations and spend more time on staff development and future planning.

The company takes its health and safety responsibilities to employees and customers very seriously. Field staff are trained to a high level in working at

height and in confined spaces, as well as machine and vehicle operation—and their workmanship is assessed regularly on site.

“We always strive for the best,” says Carol.

“Customer satisfaction and quality control are the foundation of our business.”

Taumarunui Plumbing currently has two apprentices in training, with a third starting soon. Julie, now 31, is also doing her bit for the future of the industry. “She has taken a step back from working on the tools while she produces apprentices for the next generation—two at a time, having had twins earlier this year!” says Coral.

Paul and Coral also won the Waikato Association Personal Growth and Development Award, sponsored by Navman Wireless. >

Photographs by Nicola Kosovich.

Winning attitude and performance was acknowledged at the inaugural Waikato Master Plumbers Association Awards.

Best all-round apprentice

Above: Ryan Renton (left) of FB Hall & Co, winner of Best First Year Apprentice, sponsored by Caroma

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December 2015/January 2016

AROUND ASSOCIATIONS

Most outstanding tradesperson

Apprentice of the Year

Above: Dan Voogt (left) of CF Reese, winner of the Most Outstanding Gasfitter Award, sponsored by Rheem

Above: Kris Rangitaawa (centre) celebrating the win with MasterLink Central North Island Manager Dave McGall (left) and his host employer Mike Foote.

Above: Joel Fisher (left) of EPG Plumbing & Solar Ltd, winner of the Most Outstanding Drainlayer Award, sponsored by Marley

Throughout his apprenticeship through MasterLink, Kris Rangitaawa hasn’t missed a beat—one reason why he was presented with three awards on the night.

Though Kris came late to a career in plumbing and gasfitting, he did not look back as he left the carpentry world behind after 13 years. “I get up every day in a good mood because I love doing what I do, and the variety of work,” he says.

Now 33, Kris was acknowledged for his dedication to his apprenticeship. Along with his Best Third Year Apprentice award, he received the Apprenticeship Excellence Award, sponsored by Mico, and the supreme Wintec Apprentice of the Year award.

The judges commented on his outstanding skills, work ethic and general attitude. “Thanks to everyone for everything they’ve done for me during my apprenticeship—especially Mike, who’s fantastic to work with,” he said on collecting his awards of his host employer Mike Foote.

Kris is due to complete his training in November, but won’t be stopping there. Mike said he has had discussions with Kris about his future in the industry. “He doesn’t look at the completion of his apprenticeship as the end of his training and wants to continue studying to gain his Certifying licences.”

Mike believes Kris shows real leadership potential, and will go on to train apprentices himself during the course of his career.

“He is a great team player and will always come to me with the solution, not the problem.”

Industry excellence

Above: Peter Kana of Peter Kana Plumbing won the Most Outstanding Plumber Award, sponsored by Plumbing World. Mike Wilson collected the award on his behalf (pictured here with the nominees and Plumbing World Branch Manager Kym Scantlebury).

46

December 2015/January 2016

Showing consistent excellence in his work earned Neil Lunniss of Gas Oil & Combustion Services Ltd the Award for Industry Excellence, sponsored by Hirepool. Neil’s wife Karen collected the award on his behalf from Waikato Association President Brent Tupaea.

EXCLUSIVE

NZ PLUMBER NOW AVAILABLE DIGITALLY

TO MASTER PLUMBERS’ MEMBERS! EARLY CHRISTMAS GIFT! B

onus stocking fill for our valued er members: four ba issues to enjoy ck

MPGD CONFERENCE 2015 – READ THE FULL REPORT – See page 29

CONTENTS

APRIL/MAY 2015

21

ON THE COVER

Book your place now at the 2016 New Zealand Plumbing Conference! – See page 7 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Art and Craft

17

Sheetmetal mastery at the Len Lye Centre

With 8-page MasterLink pullout!

Hazardous substances Changes are coming

12

24

28

37

Mud, glorious mud Tradies join the Tough Guy & Gal Challenge

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015 37

WHAT’S ON

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

7

17

Registrations are open for the NZ Plumbing Conference 2016

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8

CEO Greg Wallace talks marketing and membership; Master Plumbers gets the big tick from ACC; National President on tour; awards entries; new members; and two Gold Partner updates

12

Commercial leases One of your most important business contracts…

REAL LIVES 14

Out West Why West Coast plumbing takes planning

28 To the rescue This plumber’s a fire truck driving dynamo!

4

Mirror, mirror Sheetmetal mastery at the new Len Lye Centre

NUTS & BOLTS 21

22

Preventing Legionnaire’s Keeping water systems safe

INDUSTRY TALK 30 Bathed in glory Bathroom Excellence winner 31

Occupational regulation review MBIE plans to simplify

31

Innovation for Green Star Rating tool gets an update

Best practice: rainwater Top tips from Marley

31

24 Backflow know-how Questions installers should ask themselves

Involving the industry PGD Board establishes a liaison group and proposes a new CPD model

32

Sam’s Spot A plumber’s tools are sacred, says Sam!

IN FOCUS

Clawback victory

43

60

Inside this issue

25

27

The gas ring This issue’s updates for gasfitters Tech points Some online projects afoot for the industry

32

People NZPM Board; vale Nigel Mason

34 Recent convictions Licence checks are proving effective 35

Raising the roof Winners at the RANZ Roofing Awards

Fees in focus New regular column for PGD Board CEO Martin Sawyers

SMART BUSINESS 39 Eyes on insurance Covering your tools… and keeping your insurance current 43 Growing your business Business development advice from The Icehouse 44 Biz brief Employment law changes and more…

46 Understanding GST The IR has the low-down 47 Recruit to suit Kicking off our new HR series with recruitment

TIMES PAST 48 Wartime apprentice A gust of wind leads to hair-raising results for Ernie MacManus

Commercial leasing

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

What you need to know

BACKFLOW KNOW-HOW Installer basics

OUTWARD BOUND Tomorrow’s leaders

NEXT GENERATION 66 Why hire an apprentice?

MasterLink videos have the answers!

AROUND ASSOCIATIONS 53

Active in Auckland Q&A session with Auckland Master Plumbers President Regan Frost

WORLD VIEW 54 Water for future Plumber Trevor Gatland volunteers in Timor Leste 62 On the world stage Kiwi plumber at the World Skills Internationals

HEALTH MATTERS 58 Asbestos alert Ignore the risks of asbestos on worksites at your peril!

TECH SAVVY 60 Accounting add-ons You need them but be selective

58

ASBESTOS ALERT Worksite risks

70 Cover photograph by Patrick Reynolds: Len Lye Centre facade

SAFETY FIRST 50 H&S reform: one step closer The Health & Safety Reform Bill has passed

69 Got a Trade The first-ever Got a Trade Week 70 To the limit Ten apprentices test their mettle with Outward Bound 72

MasterLink winners Success down South

72

Following the code An apprenticeship code of practice

73

Making 2015 a success Skills looks at credit completion

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 75

What’s new to the marketplace

AND FINALLY 76 Offcuts This issue’s media snippets 78 Dodgy plumbing Will they ever learn?

October/November 2015

5

October/November 2015

NEW! TradePoint online resource for PGD trades – See page 10 OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

JUNE/JULY 2015

More surety for contractors

BUSINESS SAVVY SENSE OF ADVENTURE The running plumber

TOMORROW’S TOILETS A global challenge

2015 Master Plumber of the Year

3D PRINTING The way of the future?

restraints of trade

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

Protecting your patch

SUB-SURFACE PIPE LOCATION What lies beneath

VOLUNTEERING IN VANUATU Work to be done

WORLD SKILLS GOLD Kiwi plumber takes top prize

Available via www.pocketmags.com

Can be read on your iPad, iPhone, Android device, Mac, PC or Amazon Kindle Fire

www.masterplumbers.org.nz December 2015/January 2016

47

TECH SAVVY

NZ Plumber goes digital!

Master Plumbers’ members now have FREE access to the digital version of NZ Plumber—so you can enjoy your magazine your way!

NZ Plumber is now also available to read on your desktop, tablet or mobile. Here’s how to read it…

If you are a member, we will email you a unique username and password shortly, so you can access your issues (if you don’t receive it for any reason, email beverly@masterplumbers.org.nz) Then just follow these simple steps:

CONTENTS

21

Book your place now at the 2016 New Zealand Plumbing Conference! – See page 7 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Art and Craft

Now the Pocketmags app is downloaded, just select the app any time you want to login and read your copies.

To read on your Android tablet & smartphone Make sure WiFi or mobile data is turned on!

Step 1 – Select the Google Play Store from your device home page Step 2 – Select Apps, then enter Pocketmags in the search bar Step 3 – Select the Pocketmags icon, then select INSTALL Step 4 – Once installed, select OPEN Step 5 - Login with your username and password Now the Pocketmags app is downloaded, just select the app any time you want to login and read your copies. ■

Commercial leasing

28

43

60

Inside this issue

37

Mud, glorious mud Tradies join the Tough Guy & Gal Challenge

37

Fees in focus New regular column for PGD Board CEO Martin Sawyers

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

WHAT’S ON 7

Registrations are open for the NZ Plumbing Conference 2016

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8

CEO Greg Wallace talks marketing and membership; Master Plumbers gets the big tick from ACC; National President on tour; awards entries; new members; and two Gold Partner updates

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 17

Commercial leases One of your most important business contracts…

REAL LIVES

4

Out West Why West Coast plumbing takes planning

Mirror, mirror Sheetmetal mastery at the new Len Lye Centre

NUTS & BOLTS

30 Bathed in glory Bathroom Excellence winner 31

Preventing Legionnaire’s Keeping water systems safe

31

Innovation for Green Star Rating tool gets an update

Best practice: rainwater Top tips from Marley

31

Involving the industry PGD Board establishes a liaison group and proposes a new CPD model

24 Backflow know-how Questions installers should ask themselves 25

27

32

Sam’s Spot A plumber’s tools are sacred, says Sam!

The gas ring This issue’s updates for gasfitters

32

People NZPM Board; vale Nigel Mason

Tech points Some online projects afoot for the industry

34 Recent convictions Licence checks are proving effective 35

SAFETY FIRST 50 H&S reform: one step closer The Health & Safety Reform Bill has passed

AROUND ASSOCIATIONS 53

SMART BUSINESS 39 Eyes on insurance Covering your tools… and keeping your insurance current

Occupational regulation review MBIE plans to simplify

21

22

IN FOCUS 12

INDUSTRY TALK

43 Growing your business Business development advice from The Icehouse 44 Biz brief Employment law changes and more…

Active in Auckland Q&A session with Auckland Master Plumbers President Regan Frost

WORLD VIEW 54 Water for future Plumber Trevor Gatland volunteers in Timor Leste 62 On the world stage Kiwi plumber at the World Skills Internationals

HEALTH MATTERS

46 Understanding GST The IR has the low-down 47 Recruit to suit Kicking off our new HR series with recruitment

58 Asbestos alert Ignore the risks of asbestos on worksites at your peril!

TECH SAVVY 60 Accounting add-ons You need them but be selective

TIMES PAST 48 Wartime apprentice A gust of wind leads to hair-raising results for Ernie MacManus

Raising the roof Winners at the RANZ Roofing Awards

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

What you need to know

24

28 To the rescue This plumber’s a fire truck driving dynamo!

To read on your Apple iPad & iPhone Make sure WiFi or mobile data is turned on!

Step 1 - Select the App Store from your device home page Step 2 - In the search bar, enter Pocketmags Step 3 - Select GET, then select INSTALL Step 4 – Once installed, select OPEN Step 5 - Login with your username and password

BACKFLOW KNOW-HOW Installer basics

OUTWARD BOUND Tomorrow’s leaders

10kPa | Unequal 20kPa | Equal

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December 2015/January 2016

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ASBESTOS ALERT Worksite risks

70 Cover photograph by Patrick Reynolds: Len Lye Centre facade

NEXT GENERATION 66 Why hire an apprentice?

MasterLink videos have the answers!

69 Got a Trade The first-ever Got a Trade Week

MPGD CONFERENCE 2015 – READ THE FULL REPORT – See page 29

70 To the limit Ten apprentices test their mettle with Outward Bound 72

MasterLink winners Success down South

72

Following the code An apprenticeship code of practice

73

Making 2015 a success Skills looks at credit completion

APRIL/MAY 2015

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 75

What’s new to the marketplace

AND FINALLY 76 Offcuts This issue’s media snippets 78 Dodgy plumbing Will they ever learn?

October/November 2015

5

October/November 2015

With 8-page MasterLink pullout!

Hazardous substances Changes are coming

NEW! TradePoint online resource for PGD trades – See page 10 JUNE/JULY 2015

BUSINESS SAVVY

2015 Master Plumber of the Year

restraints of trade

Clawback victory

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

More surety for contractors

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

Protecting your patch

SUB-SURFACE PIPE LOCATION What lies beneath

VOLUNTEERING IN VANUATU Work to be done

WORLD SKILLS GOLD Kiwi plumber takes top prize

SENSE OF ADVENTURE The running plumber

TOMORROW’S TOILETS A global challenge

3D PRINTING The way of the future?

read NZ Plumber on your mobile, tablet or desktop—the choice is yours!

Feel the benefit!

There are heaps of added benefits when you access the digital version of NZ Plumber, including: • Read your copies on the go • Read on any device: desktop, tablet or phone • Easy view of current and back issues—great for quick reference • Page jumps from the cover & contents page to the articles you want • Direct links to websites shown in advertisements and articles • Direct links to email addresses

?

Suitable for ALL PRESSURES.

17

Sheetmetal mastery at the Len Lye Centre

14

To read on your desktop Step 1 - Go to www.pocketmags.com and select login Step 2 - Enter your username and password Step 3 - Your magazines will appear in the My Library section Step 4 - Select READ and off you go!

ON THE COVER

12

Designed and developed in NZ, for NZ conditions.

Improves performance of the water flow to your shower.

Time tracker

SUPPLY LINES

Morrinsville Plumbing navigates to superior customer service, thanks to Navman Wireless.

DAVE STRONG’S BUSY Morrinsville Plumbing business has grown from four staff (when he and his partners bought it 19 years ago), to 16 people, 14 vans and two trucks. To help him provide services to residential, commercial and industrial customers throughout the Waikato region, Dave needed a tracking solution that was reliable, efficient and most of all, easy to use.

He’s an active member of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ, where he found lots of colleagues ready to recommended GPS fleet management provider Navman Wireless as a reliable solution. In March 2010, Morrinsville Plumbing installed Navman Wireless in every vehicle in the business—even the company directors’ cars.

ACCURATE TIME AND TRAVEL INVOICING

The most significant benefit for Morrinsville Plumbing has been in resolving travel time and time-on-site queries from residential customers.

“We service a semi-rural and rural community, which means our guys can travel 35-40km to get to a customer, so we charge for time and distance travelled,” says Dave.

“Before we installed GPS tracking, if a customer queried an invoice it was their word against ours. We would usually discount the disputed amount to keep the customer happy. We still get queries but we’re able to show distance travelled, what time we arrived on site and how

long we were there. Now we have proof that the amount we’re charging them is correct. It gives our customers peace of mind.”

Previously Dave had been discounting an average of two to three hours per worker per month. With 12 workers on the road, that was adding up to $1,600 per month in lost revenue.

DAILY TRIP REPORTS USED FOR JOB SHEETS

For each vehicle installed with the GPS tracking device, Dave receives trip reports by email. “I print these out for each vehicle every morning. The guys check these against their timesheets and sometimes we pick up small jobs that we didn’t have job sheets for in advance.

It means we capture all those small jobs and are able to charge for them.

“Navman Wireless does everything I want it to do, making it value for money to the company and ultimately the profit margin. This system has allowed us to streamline our charge-out process. We have a clearly documented process so we can see exactly what time was spent where and charge accordingly.”

The company’s office staff have the Navman Wireless software on their screens at all times. At a glance, they can see where everyone is, saving time and numerous phone calls. And if they need to verify anything with Dave, he can check in with his smartphone app, no matter where he is.

“With Navman Wireless we know

Above: Dave knows where all his guys are at any given time.

Above: Dave Strong of Morrinsville Plumbing & Gas Services.

where all our people are all the time, so we can do a much more efficient job of allocating staff to job sites. If an urgent job comes in, we can see in an instant who is closest and send them along. We’ve always prided ourselves on our customer service. Our customers probably don’t even know that we use GPS tracking, but it makes us even more efficient in getting someone to a job.” ■ Navman Wireless is a global leader in GPS-based fleet-management solutions, serving customers across five continents. The company tracks 70,000 vehicles across the Australasian region, and is NZ’s leading provider of fleet tracking devices. The innovative combination of vehicle tracking GPS units, asset tracking, communications devices and software provides fleet operators with reliable, immediate intelligence on mobile assets and enables them to manage their fleets more efficiently.

A number of NZ plumbing firms already use Navman Wireless, and the company is a long-standing business partner of Master Plumbers. For more information, please phone 0800 44 77 35 or visit www.navmanwireless.co.nz

Platinum partner

December 2015/January 2016

49

WORLD VIEW

Goodwill plumbing The Laser Group Charity Taskforce project is an annual highlight for the companies involved.

THE YOUNG STUDENTS at Fiji’s Votualevu Public School had got used to moving rooms whenever it rained and straddling a crude drain when they needed a drink of water. In recent years, fire and floods had affected this primary school, which was established in Nadi back in 1926 and currently has 970 students enrolled up to year 7 as well as 115 at preschool level.

This lack of basic requirements was addressed in September, when around 400 plumbers and electricians from Australia and New Zealand descended on Fiji for the three-day Laser Group annual conference. In line with the company’s commitment to being socially responsible, many of the conference attendees arrived a day early to take part in the Laser Group Charity Taskforce project.

Each year, the Taskforce sees Laser Group plumbers and electricians take on a local project, using their skills to give back to the communities wherever the conference is located. Charities who have received assistance from the Group to date include Habitat for Humanity in New Zealand as well as the Gold Coast Youth Services and Variety in Australia.

Children were the focus of this year’s chosen project, with 110 volunteers working with the Fijian Ministry of Education to help improve both Votualevu Public School and new Nadi Technical School.

Above: Starting the school’s roofing and spouting project.

HANDS-ON HELP The priority at the primary school was to install new roofing and spouting on one of the school blocks, as well as installing drainage, a new water pump and trough for the children to drink at. At the same time, the Group worked on the library, sealing the concrete floors and installing fans, LED lighting and bookcases for books donated by Laser Group members. To make it easier for the children to borrow books from their new school library, Laser Electrical Inverell made 1,000 colourful library book bags. Members and suppliers also donated stationery and sporting goods.

At the technical school, Laser electricians installed 20 solar panels to help ensure a constant feed of power is supplied to the school’s computer rooms and power grid. Trade students helped out alongside the electricians, which was a great chance for them to learn about the benefits of solar energy.

Above: Marc Firman of Laser Plumbing East Tamaki and Barry Jelaca of Laser Plumbing Taupiri make up some spouting brackets.

Opened earlier this year, the technical school oversees the training of around 400 students in various trades, including horticulture, cookery, mechanics, welding and plumbing. The school also runs short courses.

DONATING TIME AND TOOLS The Taskforce is now in its 7th year and something that Laser Group Managing Director Steve Keil is very proud of.

“We have an amazing network of people in Laser Group across New Zealand and Australia that love taking the time out to make a difference in the local community where our conference is conducted. As practical people, we can do significantly more with our hands, efforts and time beyond just donating money or products.”

Managing this year’s Taskforce project is Gary Larkin, State Director of Laser Group Queensland, who has also coordinated with Laser’s key supplier network to supply over $100,000 worth of product donations that will be used onsite.

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Above: The students receive their book bags.

Above: Working on the bore pump at the school.

“Our members really enjoy these days,” says Gary. “They get a real buzz out of giving back to the community and working alongside their mates who they may only see once a year. It’s an opportunity not only to catch up and talk to suppliers, but also to utilise their expertise and be involved in a project that makes a real difference in the community.”

The Fiji Times reported on the project in September, describing it as reminiscent of the popular American reality TV show Extreme Makeover. Votualevu Public School headteacher Saylendra Singh told the newspaper the upgraded facilities would benefit the entire student body, especially the first year students. “We thank the assistance provided by the ministry as well as Reach 4 the Future Foundation and Laser Group.” ■

Top trades

Laser Plumbing Taupo, owned by Dave and Kylie Merwood, took home no fewer than three awards from the Laser 2015 International Conference Awards—including the major Laser Plumbing New Zealand Business of the Year. Other winners included Laser Plumbing Silverdale for Outstanding Growth, Laser Plumbing Christchurch East for Networking and Laser Plumbing Napier for Excellence in Systems.

Laser Plumbing Napier owner Murray Rigby also accepted the Plumbing Employee of the Year Award on behalf of Darrin Lee. “Darrin runs our plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying side,” said Murray. “He is committed to the Laser systems and the way of doing business and understands that repeat business is one of the key successes. He works hard to ensure valuable business relationships with our key customers.”

December 2015/January 2016

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TIMES PAST

Wartime apprentice This edition, Ernie MacManus recalls some speed-driven housing work.

MY TIME WORKING on the housing scheme was a very enjoyable period as we were treated as individuals and left to prove our own ability. In charge was Arthur, a likeable rascal who had a team of up to five apprentice plumbers to look after.

While he always managed to dodge the manual work himself, his ability to organise others was an art form that he had down to perfection.

He kept one apprentice with him in the large on-site workshop to help sort the material for four houses. The following morning the material was wheeled by hand cart to a house each with our individual tools, when we were told as soon as the house was piped we could knock off for the rest of the day.

RACE TO THE FINISH Consequently the four apprentices went at it like Trojans, all trying to outdo each other and get their house piped out in the mad race to finish. The task consisted of marking out for the builders—to fit all the dwangs for the fittings, to cut out the notches for the pipes, build the ceiling tank stand and trim out for the toilet and bath waste.

Then my work started, digging under the foundation for the cold water inlet and then standing at a pipe vice and cutting, threading and fitting all the galvanised pipework required for the cold supply. The next stage was installing the all brazed hot water services in copper tube, fitting the ceiling tank with its tray and overflow, then fitting the lead wastes for all fittings after cutting holes through the concrete foundations.

DONE IN A DAY All this normally took around two days for a tradesman but we took Arthur at his word and were determined to complete our task in under a day, so we could get an extra hour or two off.

On wet days, Arthur lined us up in the workshop and had us competing making up a quantity of lead flashings required for the tiled roofs. Then it would be all on again fitting the valleys, and flashing the brick chimneys and vent pipes with the usual incentive to go home early as soon as we finished our allotted task.

As the individual houses were nearing completion, it was our job to take all the material required to complete the plumbing system to the houses on a Friday. On Saturday morning various 52

December 2015/January 2016

tradesmen turned up to do the finishing work required at overtime rates. All the apprentices were assigned to give the tradesmen (who included the foremen on some of the large contracts) a hand.

WORKING WITH THE BEST

They all had their own individual methods of installing the various fittings such as basins, toilets, cisterns and hot water cylinders and I soon got to know who were the best tradesmen so as to pick out the ones with the neatest and fastest method of getting things done. I managed to arrange things so that I was working with what I considered the best, and between the two of us we were finishing the house with the water on and tested some time ahead of the rest and heading home early.

Archie (another apprentice with whom I got on really well) and I suggested to Arthur that we be allowed to complete a house between us on the following Saturday. He agreed and we finished well before the tradesmen, to their absolute dismay.

On the following Saturday, when we were allotted houses, they accused us of having half the job done the day before, and cheating just to show the tradesmen up. So, we let them choose first and we still had the job done and water on and tested before any of them.

The next week two of them never turned up, so Arthur gave Archie and I a house each to finish off. I had a good run and on completion gave Archie a hand and we still finished first, but the others did not enjoy being shown up, as they called it, by a couple of boys, who were only part way through their time.

Arthur was delighted and gave them no end of ribbing, much to their disgust.

RETURNED SERVICE MEN There were several rehabilitation trainees working on the Government Housing schemes for returned service men after the war, and most of the trainees were very keen to make up for lost time and learn a trade, more so the married men who

TIMES PAST

looked forward to settling down with a secured future. There was one gang however that had not the slightest motive or inclination to work, and appeared to be just filling in time until something better turned up.

They did the least amount of work possible, only making a real effort just before the overseer called on his daily inspection.

They bet on anything: flies crawling up the wall, the sex of the next person passing on the road, but mainly on poker, which was played with one taking turns as a lookout for the sudden appearance of their boss, the Bull.

The weatherboard houses had building paper behind them, so they set fire to the paper between the studs and bet on the time it would take for the fire to reach the ceiling, then promptly nailed on a sheet of wall lining, before repeating the betting process. The lookout called that the boss was coming and they promptly covered that section with wallboard.

Unfortunately there was a bump in the surface and this was hit hard with a hammer to try to smooth it out. As soon as the Bull went away after commenting on their slow progress, the wallboard was removed to reveal a flattened wristwatch hanging on a nail, to the dismay of the owner as it was a present that had travelled with him right through the desert campaign.

We were not keen on working in the houses this gang were building, as they looked down on us because we were boys who enjoyed the work and got things done. They just could not get to grips with our attitude. They were real nice guys who were

a barrel of laughs, but together they seemed to have it in for anyone in authority, and never failed to let everyone know it.

As per the plumbing contract it was their job to cut out checks for our pipes, fit the dwangs, build a tank stand and trim out for the bath waste and vent pipes. This they were reluctant to do, and when they finally got round to it we found insecure nailing, and ended up fixing things ourselves until one of the boys stood on a dwang that only had one nail in it and he suffered an injury. It was only after that things improved. â–

SMART BUSINESS

Growth matters By having a clear goal and a great team, business growth will follow, says Liz Wotherspoon of The Icehouse.

IN BUSINESS, THERE is no such thing as standing still. So if you are not growing, you are in fact going backwards.

But if growth matters, how you grow really matters. In the pursuit of profitable and sustainable growth, growth by itself isn’t the answer.

Being deliberate and disciplined in the pursuit of growth is really important to top-line growth, translating to greater bottom-line profitability. And if it doesn’t, then why bother? As owner-managers try to realise the full potential that exists within their business, getting the fundamentals right as a strong platform for growth is important. They can fail by growing either too fast or too slow.

I’m going to suggest that perhaps the best place to start is having a clear view of where you are heading—an explainable and compelling vision.

Given the relentless pace of change, markets that are more and more competitive and customers that are more

and more knowledgeable, and more and more demanding, growing a business is not for the faint hearted. How do you make sure the business raises its capacity and capability to handle growth as rapidly as it does its revenue line? How do you plan for the future when you can barely see what’s around the next corner? If strategy is about choices, how do you know which are the right ones to make?

After nearly 15 years of working with owner-managers of NZ businesses, we understand the wonderful traits that these hard-working, hard-driving entrepreneurs exhibit. They are great at seeing possibilities where others don’t.

They are passionate and energetic. They love new challenges and are always striving to do things better.

Clarity brings confidence

At the same time, there are moments for many of our owner-managers when confronting the tensions of growth that

they lose their confidence and become unsure if they have what it takes to continue to drive the business forward.

They question whether they have gone from being the biggest enabler of growth for their business to being the biggest inhibitor of growth.

Important to getting past these moments of doubt and mustering up the motivation and confidence to take the business to the next level, is getting real clarity about where the business is going and then being able to plan, including balancing short term and longer term goals. As one of our Owner Manager Programme alumni, Janene Draper from Farro Fresh, said, “Once I could picture the goal, stuff started to happen fast.”

Building great teams

Understanding that people and culture truly are critical to the ability of the business to grow and succeed means owner-managers need to build their teams and communicate to get them aligned and heading in the same direction. World-renowned author Jim Collins says in Good to Great, “Start by getting the right people on the bus, the wrong people off the bus, and the right people in the right seats.” In fact Collins argues that the ‘who’ comes before the ‘where’. Either way, knowing where you are headed and having the right people in the organisation to help you get there, are key to achieving and sustaining growth.

So growth matters. But the pace and quantum of growth is based on choices.

Bigger isn’t always better, but realising and maximising the true performance potential of a business is not only rewarding… it is right. ■ About the author: Liz Wotherspoon is Director of Growth and Coaching at The Icehouse. Through workshops, group programmes and customised business coaching, The Icehouse gives people the skills, clarity and support to grow their business or fast track their start-up. The Icehouse will be holding an optional ‘Build your Business’ workshop for Master Plumbers’ members at the NZ Plumbing Conference 2016. Contact The Icehouse on 09 308 6200; theicehouse.co.nz

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SMART BUSINESS

Are we agreed?

Employment agreements mustn’t be overlooked, says HR specialist Lisa Duston in the second part of our new series.

IN MY LAST article I touched on bestpractice recruitment for your business.

Now it’s time to look at what happens once you have found the right person for your business.

Firstly, it is your job to make sure the person fully understands your expectations regarding: • the work you’re offering • salary • benefits • hours of work.

Until an offer of employment has been accepted nothing is official, so you need to move on getting all paperwork to the candidate as quickly and efficiently as possible. You must send a letter officially offering the candidate the position, as well as an employment agreement, which needs to be signed before they start with your business.

The employment agreement is often overlooked by employers, many of whom think a verbal discussion is all that is needed. Not having an employment agreement can result in fines by the Employment Relations Authority— money no business wants to spend!

AGREEMENT TYPES There are two types of employment agreements: collective and individual.

Collective Agreement: This is in place when an employer and a union have negotiated a collective agreement under the Employment Relations Act.

checklist to help the new employee find their feet over the first month or so.

Give me a call if you need your current agreement reviewed, or you’re looking to develop a new agreement for your business. ■ Next issue, Lisa will take a look at 90-day trial periods and company policies.

Individual Employment Agreement: If there is no Collective Agreement in place or being adopted, an Individual Employment Agreement should be negotiated and signed by both parties.

In order for this to meet the minimum requirements by law, it must contain mandatory clauses, such as position, duties, place of work, hours, pay, holidays, restructuring, redundancy and resolving employment relationship problems.

INDUCTION TIME Now that the employee has signed all the necessary paperwork and they arrive for their first day, make sure you take the time to induct them, introduce them to other employees, talk them through their hours of work and breaks, and complete the essential Health and Safety induction.

Many businesses have an induction

About the author: HR Consultant Lisa Duston is here to support your business, ensuring you and your team have the tools to get it right. Lisa can assist with your recruitment needs, from placing ads through to supplying you with a shortlist of potential well-screened applicants ready for interviewing. Master Plumbers’ members can access HR support from Lisa Duston at specially reduced rates. Call Lisa on 03 388 4066 or 021 245 1704 during normal business hours. Or email pbsolutions@pbsolutions.co.nz

Employment agreement resource

Standard and Apprentice Individual Employment Agreement templates plus a user guide are freely available for use by Master Plumbers’ member businesses. These have recently been updated to incorporate new clauses, including business interruption, minimum training wage, and drug and alcohol testing. Other clauses have been brought up to date. Access them in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

December 2015/January 2016

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SMART BUSINESS

Good employment practice There’s a mixed bag of employment law changes in the Employment Standards Bill, says Jessie Lapthorne of Duncan Cotterill Laywers.

ZERO HOURS, INCREASED parental leave entitlements, and stronger regulation around compliance with minimum entitlements—the Employment Standards Bill is a one stop shop for employment law tinkering.

You could be forgiven for thinking the changes are limited to ‘zero hours’ contracts. Certainly this aspect has had the most media coverage and political commentary, but the Bill covers far more than that and proposes some significant changes that all employers should be across.

ZERO HOURS The explanatory note suggests that the Bill is intended to prohibit ‘zero hours’ contracts. In actual fact this is not the case. The Bill doesn’t strictly prohibit

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these arrangements, and arguably enables them, as long as ‘compensation’ is paid.

There are no clues as to what is required in terms of compensation which is something that we may see changed as the Bill works its way through the system.

In a nutshell, some of the key changes are: • If hours are agreed when the employment agreement is entered into, these must be specified in the employment agreement. This does not require the parties to agree the number of hours.

• Employers cannot require employees to be available for work without compensation.

• A clause in an employment agreement which restricts an

employee’s secondary employment will be unenforceable unless the employer has a ‘genuine reason’, ‘based on reasonable grounds’ and the ‘reason’ is set out in the employee’s employment agreement.

The Bill sets out some examples of potential ‘genuine reasons’ such as: protecting commercially sensitive information and preventing a real conflict of interest.

start looking at your employment, holiday, payroll and record keeping practices

SMART BUSINESS Employees who refuse an offer of work cannot be treated adversely.

• Employers may only cancel a shift with ‘reasonable notice’ or ‘compensation’ (neither of which are defined).

• Employees will be entitled to bring a personal grievance for breaches of the new provisions.

The Bill has been criticised for not going far enough to outlaw the use of zero hours contracts. Rather than make these contracts illegal, the Bill provides rights to compensation and to bring claims if the practice continues. Critics say employees in these types of arrangements are unlikely to demand compensation, or to bring a personal grievance.

It seems likely that some changes will be made to this aspect of the Bill, such as: providing for a minimum level of compensation; specifying what kind of treatment would amount to “adverse treatment”; and defining “shift”. But we won’t know what changes are proposed until the Select Committee reports back in February next year.

‘negotiated carer leave’. Under this section, employees who would not otherwise be entitled to parental leave can make a request for negotiated carer leave (which is similar to a flexible working request).

• Introducing a new lesser entitlement to six months unpaid leave, for workers with more than six months’ service (but less than 12).

• Introducing ‘keeping in touch days’, allowing employees to work a maximum of 40 hours during their period of parental leave, without impacting on their leave.

The wider access to parental leave and flexibility in the way parental leave arrangements operate will impact on all employers, even if the workforce is mostly male. Each household is different and we are seeing an increasing number of men taking over the parental leave entitlement to enable their other halves to go back to work early. The law change will help to encourage this.

PARENTAL LEAVE

COMPLIANCE WITH MINIMUM EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

•

A large part of the Bill proposes changes to parental leave legislation.

A law change that will see paid parental leave increasing to 18 weeks from April next year has already been passed— although under the Bill, that law is being repealed and incorporated in the new Bill.

The Bill proposes to extend entitlements to a wider range of workers, and allow greater flexibility in the way the scheme operates, to provide for modern working and family arrangements.

The key changes include: • Broadening the types of workers who can take paid parental leave.

Under the proposed Bill, casual and seasonal workers, employees with more than one employer, and employees who have changed jobs will all potentially be entitled to parental leave.

• Extending parental leave entitlements to a wider range of ‘primary carers’ than biological parents or formal adoptive parents by introducing the concept of ‘primary carer leave’ (in the place of ‘maternity leave’).

• Introducing the concept of

The Bill aims to achieve more effective enforcement of employment standards. It introduces: • Much higher penalties for serious breaches ($50,000 for individuals and $100,000 or three times the financial gain obtained from the breach for companies).

• A general obligation on employers to keep employment records (eg, wages, holiday payments and employment agreements) in enough detail to be able to show that they have complied with the law.

• Wider accountability provisions, meaning that people who are not the employer but who were knowingly and intentionally involved in breaches of employment standards can be prosecuted.

• Greater powers of Labour Inspectors to request information from employers and to share that information with other agencies.

• Penalty claims for breaches to be brought by the individual

employee concerned (previously these could only be brought by a Labour Inspector).

• ‘Banning Orders’, for persistent breaches of employment standards, banning a person (for up to 10 years) from: being an employer; being an officer (eg, director or member of senior management) of an employer; or being involved in the hiring or employment of employees.

• An infringement and notice regime for breaches of an employer’s record keeping and employment agreement obligations.

These changes are aimed at noncompliant employers but a number of other individuals could also be caught and prosecuted. The penalties and enforcement tools are intentionally high to encourage compliance.

The Bill is currently before the Select Committee where public submissions are being considered. The Select Committee is expected to report back on the Bill by 12 February 2016 with the new laws intended to come into force on 1 April 2016.

We expect that there will be a few tweaks made before the Bill becomes law.

As it stands there are quite a few grey areas which make it difficult for people to know how to comply.

But regardless of the need for some tweaking, the key point to note is that the new laws are intended to have farreaching and serious consequences for employers and people who are involved in failing to meet minimum standards under employment laws.

Now would be a good time to start looking at your employment, holiday, payroll and record keeping practices to make sure you and your business won’t fall foul of the new rules. ■ Disclaimer: the content of this article is general in nature and not intended as a substitute for specific professional advice on any matter and should not be relied upon for that purpose

About the author: Jessie Lapthorne is an Associate in Duncan Cotterill’s specialist employment law team. jessie. lapthorne@duncancotterill.com

December 2015/January 2016

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SMART BUSINESS

Building your brand Building a brand is about more than just designing a logo, as Lisa Plato of Plato Creative explains.

YOUR BRAND IDENTITY needs to represent who you are, what you do, and what you stand for. It is every communication you send; every sign, billboard and branded vehicle; every mention of your staff and company online—including social media. It’s even the groups and events you sponsor.

While there may be the temptation to put this in the too-hard basket, if you take the time now to build a solid foundation for your brand, you can make the most of any and every opportunity to promote your business and service offering in the future.

One of my favourite sayings is: ‘Your brand is your reputation… it’s what people say about your business when you’re not in the room’. So, it’s important to get it right.

DO YOUR RESEARCH Chances are, you will have a pretty strong understanding of the local plumbing industry. But it’s also important to get a fresh perspective. Ask people outside your business if they know a local plumber—can they recall a specific tradesperson or company? Find out how they might go about finding a plumber and what would make them choose one company over another. You might be surprised by what you find out. Many business people think their business is well known, but in reality it may only be known well by those in the industry, which—if you are a plumber—is not your target market.

KNOW YOUR TARGET MARKET Do you know who your target market is, beyond ‘gut instinct’? If you can’t answer this question confidently, do your research. This could be as simple as looking back through past jobs to categorise customers. Who are the key decision-makers that you need to connect with? By identifying these people, you can ensure that what you are communicating, and how, will reach and also resonate with these key people.

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look at the services you provide, but also what sets you apart from your competitors DEFINE WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU STAND FOR I know this can be a tricky one when it comes to putting pen to paper. Look at the services you provide, but also what sets you apart from your competitors.

For some companies, the key message might be that they are available 24/7.

For others, it might be that they provide a superior, quality service, or that their team are all highly qualified or specialised.

If you have employees, I would strongly suggest getting them involved in a workshop to discuss these ideas.

This helps to engage staff and give them a sense of involvement and ownership in

the company. It can also go a long way to helping them stay on board if your plan includes changing any of the ways you— and they— do business.

ASK FOR HELP You are an expert in your field, so you wouldn’t want to see people go it alone when it comes to plumbing. Building a brand identity is the same. If you’re not confident in your ability to understand your market and how to effectively (and cost-effectively) reach your target market, ask for help and trust an expert in the field. You may think it’s cheaper to do it yourself, but by getting an expert involved, you can save yourself time, money and hassle, while also increasing sales in the pipeline. ■ About the author: Lisa Plato is Business Director of Plato Creative, a fully integrated Christchurch-based creative agency that helps businesses gain a brand advantage by developing smart, creative solutions that work. Contact Lisa on 03 365 2599; www.platocreative.co.nz

SMART BUSINESS

Keep a record

Starting a new business? Keeping accurate records is vital, says Inland Revenue.

SETTING UP A new business is exciting, but it’s important you keep accurate and complete records from the beginning.

What should I keep?

Your business records should include banking information, proof of income and expenses, cash books and wage books.

Why? It makes it easier to keep track of your income and expenses and will assist you with budgeting and management decisions. There is also a legal requirement to keep accurate records.

How do I keep records?

There are a few options when it comes to keeping records. Running your own business requires you to manage a lot of information, but that doesn’t mean you need to use the same complex recordkeeping system as your accountant.

you need to be able to store and present information accurately

CLASSIFIED ADS

The cost to advertise is $40+GST for MPGD members; $75+GST for non-members.

Just send your text (up to 100 words) to advertising@masterplumbers.org.nz

Plumber – New Plymouth We have a vacancy in New Plymouth for a Maintenance Plumber.

If you are thinking of a change and need a new focus then perhaps this could be for you. There are plenty of challenges and loads of work available in this permanent appointment. Please provide CV to spencer.shaw@onestaff.co.nz or if you prefer we are happy to offer further information upon initial phone contact to Spencer 06 968 4510.

You need to be able to store and present information accurately, and find it quickly later. So it is best you choose a record keeping system that suits you.

For example, you may choose to use a cashbook or an accounting software programme. Your accountant or bank may be able to suggest a software programme that would work for you.

There are a few basic rules to remember for effective record keeping: • •

• • • •

•

Keep all records for at least 7 years Electronic records are OK, but remember to back up your information on a regular basis Keep receipts for all transactions, even those under $50 Keep copies of any records that might fade, like EFTPOS receipts Staple small receipts to an A4 sheet to avoid losing them All records must be in English (unless you have approval from the IR to use a different language) If you haven’t already opened bank accounts for your business and another account where you deposit enough money for your tax payments, you should do so now.

CPD points for free wastewater training Earn 6 free CPD points online and learn about the design and installation of Advanced Enviro-Septic (AES) wastewater treatment systems. AES is a passive, aerobic ‘back to the future’ system which has been in use in the US for over 25 years. It requires no power, is easy to install and gives you and your clients peace of mind with a 20 year warranty and high quality treatment. Registered drainlayers who complete the online training course can install AES systems. Register at www. environmenttechnology.co.nz/aescertification-process Ph 03 970 7979 or visit www.et.nz for more information.

Still got questions?

You can get free advice from an Inland Revenue Community Compliance Officer if you need assistance with your record keeping. They offer tax education and advice to new businesses and small organisations, and seminars on personal tax and entitlements. They work from most Inland Revenue offices and travel regularly to other areas. If you need to speak with someone face-to-face, you can call 0800 775 247 to make an appointment. ■ You’ll also find some useful tools like fact sheets, cashbook and wage summary templates at ird.govt.nz/tool-for-business

Plumber, SkyCity Auckland Undertake maintenance tasks to the plumbing infrastructure at SKYCITY. Requires a minimum of three years post apprenticeship trade experience as a Plumber, NZQA certification and someone interested in obtaining a Craftsman/ Certifying Plumber qualification.

Experience with mobile lifters, access equipment, ladders and scaffolding would be beneficial; you’ll need to be comfortable with heights and in confined spaces. Work for Auckland’s most iconic brand and enjoy great benefits: heavily discounted parking, $2.50 meals, medical insurance and much more! Visit www.skycitycareers.com (ref 38357) or call Sandi Riches on 09 363 6454.

December 2015/January 2016

59

NEXT GENERATION

Do you dig it?

NZ Plumber looks at the options available to apprentices wanting to get drainlaying qualifications under their belt.

DRAINLAYERS AREN’T THE sort to be afraid of getting stuck in. It can be a dirty job and it requires some muscle, but it’s great for outdoor types and there can be a good living to be made out of it.

You don’t have to be big and burly for the work, says Russell Brown of third generation family business Russell Brown Contracting in Auckland on the Careers New Zealand Just the Job drainlaying video—in fact it can be a positive advantage to be small for some of the tight spaces drainlayers have to go.

Trainees wanting to get a Drainlaying National Certificate can choose to do the qualification on its own—over the space of 18 months to two years—or in combination with Plumbing over four years. With this option, drainlaying studies begin early in the second year.

For those wanting all three trades, it can be tacked on to the end of the four-year Plumbing & Gasfitting qualification.

This reduces the amount of time needed to complete, as a certain number of Unit Standards can be cross-credited. This ‘Assessment of Prior Learning’ (APL) approach enables trainees to complete all three qualifications in around five years.

Self-paced learning

The Drainlaying National Certificate differs from Plumbing and Gasfitting because apprentices carry out the theory work by distance learning through the Open Polytechnic.

With a strict two-year time limit on completion (or apprentices have to re-enrol at their own expense), it takes a few hours each week to complete the study guides and written assessment, which are mailed off to the Open Polytechnic for marking.

To break the training into manageable chunks, Skills recently divided the qualification into two 12-month stages, with a five-day practical assessment block course at the end of each.

Polytechnics around the country provide these practical assessments, using a large outdoor sandpit to assess drainage work learnt on the job and through distance learning.

Apprentices must also take along their drainlaying on-

The bar finds out what sort of man you are.

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December 2015/January 2016

site record book and on-site evidence sheets to demonstrate particular skills they’ve mastered, with supporting photos, plans and drawings.

Stage one practical assessment tasks include installing drains of various materials, clearing, repairing and replacing drains and installing inspection chambers. Stage two tasks include installing interceptor traps, pump stations, septic tanks and disposal systems, stormwater systems and intake and outtake structures.

Keeping it safe

Due to the nature of the work, drainlaying apprentices are strongly encouraged to be immunised against Hepatitis A and B and tetanus. The apprenticeship begins with a practical health and safety induction, which includes confined space training and First Aid. During their theory studies, apprentices also learn the hazards and precautions to take when doing drainage work and how to complete an incident report.

Learning about public safety is just as important as personal safety. At the stage one practical assessment, apprentices have to show how to carry out health and safety procedures for a building site.

As a trade, drainlaying is itself all about people’s health and safety. Drains may be hidden beneath the ground, but without them there would be no indoor plumbing, no sewage systems and constant flooding—creating all kinds of health risks.

Drainlaying through MasterLink

Self-paced learning takes motivation on the part of the apprentice. This is where MasterLink can help, says MasterLink Operations Manager Kate Jenkins. “We keep a close eye on their study progress and crack the whip towards the end of each stage if necessary to make sure they don’t leave things to the last minute. It’s a real advantage for host employers because we can chase up the apprentice’s theory work and we have good direct contact with the Open Polytechnic.” ■ The clips below are from the drainlaying Just the Job video. View it at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZBMFQDsPP0

The hammer is next to break the old kerb.

Finishing the job with a breaker.

At a glance

Key facts about the drainlaying qualification Time taken to complete

18 months to 2 years

Stages

Two + induction

Unit Standards

36

Components

On job, distance learning (theory) + block course assessments (practical)

Distance learning provider

Open Polytechnic

Block course providers

Unitec, MIT, Wintec, EIT, Weltec, CPIT + SIT

Handy to have

Daniel Clarke has just completed his Drainlaying National Certificate through MasterLink and is preparing to sit his registration exam next June. Daniel already holds National Certificates in Plumbing and Gasfitting and works as a Licensed Plumber at Invercargill-based Inside Systems.

Most of the firm’s drainlaying work is domestic: new builds, renovations, extensions and the like. “I saw getting a drainlaying ticket as another opportunity,” says Daniel. “If you’re a plumber, you might as well go the next step.”

While doing the training, he would spend a couple of hours a night completing the Open Polytechnic workbooks before posting them off for marking. “Everything’s in the book,” he says.

“If you get something wrong, they tell you where to find the answer. They don’t want to see you fail, so they’re there to help.”

Some of the National Certificate was cross-credited from his plumbing training, making the course quicker to complete.

“It was different from when I did the plumbing and gasfitting back in 2006, because you have to get tasks signed off on site.

Then you take the folder to block course for the tutor to see you can do them competently.”

With its focus on domestic plumbing, Inside Systems couldn’t provide Daniel with practical experience in commercial aspects like wing walls, pumping stations and roads, but he picked this up while on block course at SIT. If you like working outside and getting dirty and muddy, drainlaying is for you, says Daniel. “Everyone needs drains, so it’s really handy to have.”

Putting the new kerb in with the digger.

December 2015/January 2016

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NEXT GENERATION

Full circle

Former MasterLink apprentice Kieran Drake is now training his second MasterLink apprentice.

FOUR YEARS AGO, Kieran Drake set up Drake Plumbing & Drainlaying in his rural hometown of Otautau, about 40km from Invercargill.

A former MasterLink apprentice, Kieran showed promise from the start, serving his apprenticeship at Advantage Plumbing and Drainage in Queenstown and going on to win the prized James Douglas Medallion in 2008.

About a year after starting in business, Kieran took on a MasterLink apprentice of his own—his brother Gareth. Now 24, and a Licensed Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer, Gareth is able to help supervise the newest addition to the team.

This October, 16-year-old Ben DeClifford joined the firm as a MasterLink plumbing and gasfitting apprentice. Like Kieran and Gareth before him, Ben will be mentored by MasterLink South Island Manager Roger Herd.

Ben already knew of Kieran through their fathers, who often work together in their professions of joiner and builder. A couple of years ago, he did some work for Kieran, which led to him signing up to the plumbing Gateway programme at school.

He would spend every Friday at the firm and one period a day studying relevant unit standards.

Above: From left: Kieran, Ben and Gareth.

When NZ Plumber spoke to Ben, he was just four weeks into his apprenticeship and loving the hands-on aspect. “Whenever you go to a job you don’t know what to expect. You have to use your head to work out the problem.”

He’s already been tasked with hooking up vanities and wastes, lagging pipes and helping out with the large amount of dairyrelated work the company does. His first block course will be early in the New Year.

Ben followed Kieran’s advice to train through MasterLink, as it meant he didn’t have to worry about saving up for block courses.

“As I’ll be going to SIT in Invercargill, MasterLink will cover my travel and accommodation, and pay me while I’m there,” he says.

“They also provide me with tools and safety gear.”

When Ben completes his plumbing and gasfitting apprenticeship he hopes to continue on to drainlaying. But for now, he’s just enjoying the start of his chosen career. ■

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Masterlink removes the risks of taking on an apprentice. Here’s how: Masterlink recruits the best –

Masterlink helps your cashflow –

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block course, holiday and sick leave.

Masterlink is the employer – leave the recruitment, employment agreements, PAYE and paperwork to us!

Masterlink manages the apprenticeship – we look after all block course arrangements, regular appraisals,

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Masterlink provides the tools – we give your apprentice a tool allowance and PPE gear (boots, overalls etc) for the duration of their apprenticeship.

additional training needs and mentoring –

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making your job hassle free.

our Regional Managers are here to help you and your apprentice, every step of the way.

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DID YOU KNOW you are eligible for a $2,000 Masterlink Kickstart grant when you take on a new plumbing and gasfitting or plumbing and drainlaying apprentice?

Contact Masterlink to find out more about this excellent opportunity for financial support to grow your business.

Masterlink has high-quality candidates ready and waiting to sign up to an apprenticeship. Call us today!

Freephone: 0800 502 102 Visit www.masterlink.co.nz Email admin@masterlink.co.nz Terms and conditions: Employer grant valid from 01 August 2015 – 18 December 2015. Kickstart Employer Grant limited to ten Masterlink Apprentice Hosts per region. Kickstart Employer grant subject to confirmation by the Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ Inc. Kickstart Employer Grant is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or deal through the Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ Inc.

NEXT GENERATION

Set on drains

Drainlaying provided the answer to Anthony Barensden-Vernooji’s career search, as The Skills Organisation reports.

ANTHONY BARENSDEN-VERNOOIJ enjoys pushing himself outside of his comfort zone. Originally a baker and a qualified chef, Anthony realised he wanted to cook for pleasure, not professionally.

“After I left cheffing I did a little bit of everything, trying to figure out what I wanted to do,” he says. “I worked in dairy farming, a plastic blow moulding factory—I even maintained vineyards.

“But I finally found my passion working for O’Hagan Contracting as a drainlaying apprentice,” he says.

Anthony explains that finding your dream career takes commitment and discipline like any goal in life.

“Along my career journey I was also serious about canoe polo. I started playing on the NZ men’s team in 2006. During my canoe polo career, I worked hard with our team, which saw us attend four world championships and four Oceania championships. It was a real buzz seeing our hard training pay off and that definitely transfers directly into my work ethic,” he says.

Anthony, 32, recognises he is not straight out of high school, but credits his work experience with helping to prove his competence in his apprenticeship.

Above: Anthony on site.

“Ideally I would have gone straight into an apprenticeship from school. I might have got into my perfect career faster if I had guidance from something like The Skills Organisation’s Gateway Programme.

“I enjoy problem solving which is a natural part of this job. It takes common sense and the ability to think on your feet when faced with a new type of job and location every day,” he says.

Once qualified in a couple years, Anthony says his opportunities are endless. “Getting a trade gives you options, income and sets you up for life.” ■

Get Qualified.

Get Licenced.

Get Ahead.

To find out more call 0508 SKILLS (0508 754 557) or visit skills.org.nz/trades 64

December 2015/January 2016

SAFETY FIRST

H&S reform: guidance coming New guidance on the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015 is on its way soon.

THE NEW LEGISLATION is here—make your business and workplace safe.

Master Plumbers, in collaboration with WorkSafe New Zealand and ACC, is presenting 2.5 hour presentations for plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers in February.

Go to www.tradepoint.org.nz to book your place at one of the 15 nationwide venues.

What the presentation covers The Master Plumbers’ part of the presentation includes information on keeping your business safe through creating safe behaviours and processes.

This is followed by an explanation of the new Master Plumbers’ Best Practice Guide for Health and Safety. The Guide includes the basics of the legislation, the duties of care, new terms and much more.

The WorkSafe part of the presentation covers off key information and messages about the legislation, and delivers the broader picture around health and safety in the participating trades.

The ACC part of the presentation covers occupational health and safety in the trades; plumbers and their injuries; the cost of injuries to business; and how to manage levies. ■

H&S manual and training

WorkSafe guidance

WorkSafe will start to provide formal guidance to the industry in 2016 once the regulations are finalised. In the meantime, it will provide general information to help explain your responsibilities under the new Act, as well as examples and case studies.

You can sign up for updates on progress at worksafe.govt.nz (under About us).

Free HSR transition training

WorkSafe is offering free transition training to existing health and safety representatives in the construction industry. Safety ‘n Action Ltd is the selected provider for this training, which will help HSRs prepare to function under the new Health and Safety at Work Act. The course will be a mix of online and face-to-face and will be available for four months only from February 2016.

Registration is available at www.safetynaction.co.nz

Master Plumbers has developed a health and safety manual that’s tailored to plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying businesses. Training and implementation support is also available.

Options

Cost (+GST)

MPGD Health and Safety Manual

$150 MPGD members; $750 non members

Manual plus two hours’ training (with 6 CPD points)*

$750 members; $1,100 non members

Manual plus two hours’ training (6 CPD points) plus 1.5 hours’ implementation support

$1,100 members; $2,500 non members

*Two Master Plumbers member companies together share the cost of training and pay $550 each, saving $200.

Three companies together pay $400 each, saving $350.

Contact Joe Grayland on 0800 502 102; jgrayland@masterplumbers.org.nz

December 2015/January 2016

65

AND FINALLY

Christmas crackers Get into the festive spirit with this pix ‘n’ mix of funnies.

British humour

Some classified ads placed in UK newspapers:

FREE YORKSHIRE TERRIER 8 years old, Hateful little bastard.

Bites!

FREE PUPPIES 1/2 Cocker Spaniel, 1/2 sneaky neighbour’s dog.

FREE PUPPIES Mother is a Kennel Club registered German Shepherd.

Father is a Super Dog, able to leap tall fences in a single bound.

JOINING NUDIST COLONY! Must sell washer and dryer £100.

WEDDING DRESS FOR SALE Worn once by mistake.

Call Stephanie.

And the winner is…

FOR SALE BY OWNER Complete set of Encyclopedia Britannica, 45 volumes.

Excellent condition, £200 or best offer.

No longer needed, got married, wife knows everything.

Children are quick Teacher: Why are you late?

Student: Class started before I got here.

Teacher: Glenn, how do you spell ‘crocodile?’

Glenn: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L Teacher: No, that’s wrong Glenn: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.

(I love this child) Teacher: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?

Donald: H I J K L M N O. Teacher: What are you talking about?

Donald: Yesterday you said it’s H to O. Teacher: Susie, name one important thing we have today that we didn’t have ten years ago.

Susie: Me! Teacher: Brad, why do you always get so dirty?

Brad: Well, I’m a lot closer to the ground than you are.

Teacher: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?

Simon: No sir, I don’t have to, my Mum is a good cook.

Teacher: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?

Harold: A teacher.

Teacher: Clyde, your composition on ‘My Dog’ is exactly the same as your brother’s… Did you copy his?

Clyde: No, sir. It’s the same dog.

Teacher: You missed school yesterday, didn’t you?

David: Not really.

Bucket list

Advent calendar

Teacher: George Washington not only chopped down his father’s cherry tree, but also admitted it. Now, Billy, do you know why his father didn’t punish him?

Billy: Because George still had the axe in his hand...

December 2015/January 2016

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AND FINALLY

Why there are fewer men than women

And the winner is‌ Hold still mate!

68

December 2015/January 2016

AND FINALLY

Offcuts

More weird and wonderful media snippets of the plumbing kind…

The bathroom’s mine

An Australian homeowner called in a plumber to solve the mystery of her slow-draining bath, reports The Age Victoria. When he told her there was a mineshaft under her bathroom, she wasn’t too surprised as it was on the house plans. But she got a fright when he told her the three-metre wide shaft was unfilled and had subsided over time. Her family had bought the house in the 1950s from a man who had purchased the land cheaply from the mines department two decades previously. She now planned to get the mineshaft filled with concrete.

Shonky winners

Kleenex ‘flushable’ wet wipes and Ikea ‘leather’ couches were among the prize winners at the 2015 Shonky Awards in October. Australian consumer advocacy group Choice presents the name-andshame awards annually to what it considers the dodgiest products and companies of the year. In 2015, winners included Samsung for its ‘less-than-energetic’ recall of washing machines with a dangerous fault, and Arnott’s for displaying its own ‘school canteen’ tick of approval on Tiny Teddy and Shapes packs. Flushable wipes have been copping a fair bit of flak recently (see p27) and now that’s been crowned with a Shonky Award. “Clearly, Kleenex flushable wipes are sewer pipeunfriendly, and we don’t think they’re consumer-friendly either,” say Choice. “Why pay extra for something flushable that you really shouldn’t flush? And guess who has to pay the plumber when they block up your pipes?”

Lama or plumber?

Sixty years ago a Tibetan monk stunned the world with his bestselling memoir, The Third Eye, detailing his incredible life as a monk in the mountains of Chokpori, reports The Plymouth Herald. The world was even more stunned two years later when the book turned out to be written by a plumber called Cyril from Plymouth—who didn’t even own a passport. The book’s popularity only increased when Cyril’s true identity was revealed. He claimed he hosted the spirit of the author, T Lobsang Rampa, who took over his body when he fell out of a fir tree and was knocked unconscious while trying to photograph an owl. Cyril maintained for the rest of his life that The Third Eye was a true story.

First Aid saves the day

An elderly Perth cyclist owes his life to a quick-thinking plumber, reports The West Australian. The plumber revived the 74-year-old after a massive heart attack with the help of a defibrillator bought on eBay just weeks earlier for a few hundred dollars. Apparently the man was out on a regular Saturday morning ride with his bike club when his heart stopped for several minutes. Hope was running out when the 29-year-old plumber happened to drive past and pull up to see if he could help. He had recently completed a first-aid course and decided afterwards to invest in the defibrillator to keep in his car boot in case of a work emergency. The man’s wife said her husband had been dubbed ‘the miracle man’ by hospital staff. He underwent a quadruple bypass a few days later.

Alien experience

What doctors thought might be a cyst or in-grown hair in UK plumber Gavin Hyatt’s stomach turned out to be something completely different, reports the Inquistr. It was, in fact, his parasitic twin that emerged from his belly button like something out of the movie Alien. According to the article, the 30-year-old father of four had been to several doctors complaining about a lump just next to his belly button. After experiencing a series of stabbing pains in his stomach, he was amazed to see his parasitic twin, measuring 4cm, pushing its way through his stomach.

Hyatt says he now keeps his brother in a jar at home and calls him little Gav.

Latte in the loo?

Auckland Council was looking to rent five public toilets in the city, according to a report in The New Zealand Herald. The Council said the heritage buildings had endless opportunities for transformation, with similar projects here and abroad turning public toilets into cafés, bars, shops, galleries and salons. They will join a handful of other public toilets around NZ that have already been given new uses. One on Auckland’s Beresford Square has housed several restaurants and bars, and the Welsh Dragon Bar in Wellington was once a public toilet.

Time to give

Canadian plumber Paul Myers has made history in his British Columbia homeland by giving the largest single donation by an individual to a hospital foundation, reports the Journal of Commerce. Eighty-two-year-old Myers donated $25 million to the foundation of his choice, and some of the money will go towards a new patient facility. He told the Journal he’d been very fortunate financially in life and had decided it was time to give back to a good cause. Working hard in a trades career had earned him a very good living, he said…

December 2015/January 2016

69

AND FINALLY

DODGY Plumbing Keep them coming! Send your Dodgy Plumbing examples to the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz

A New Year is on the way, but some things never change…

An explosive mix

Two ghastly gas scenarios sent in by Dale Lovell of Heron Plumbing this issue: “A customer of ours sent us this. He wanted us to go and certify the gas installation. He admitted he did it himself. What is the world coming to, putting themselves and their families at risk?”

“What do you reckon about this installation that my plumber went to? We were asked to quote for a kitchen to be moved and a laundry to be shifted. I have advised the customer to urgently remove the bomb.”

Laying some rubber

“I figure there was about two tubes of silicone around this AND it still leaked!” says Aaron Smylie of Greytown Plumbing. “If he had only cut the lap of the join in the corrugated iron, life would’ve been sweet.”

Please send the biggest size photos you have.

The bigger the file, the bigger we can show it on the page!

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December 2015/January 2016

What do you expect?

“Customer complained there was no hot water!” says Bruce Trenwith of BT Plumbing & Gas.

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