NZ Plumber October-November 2018 by NZ Plumber

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

LEAD IN PLUMBING PRODUCTS A public health risk

PLUMBING AMBASSADOR Promoting a trades career

CONFERENCE 2019 Register now for Queensland!

2017 list MPA Fina

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EDITORIAL

Volume 70, Number 5 MAGAZINE TEAM CEO Greg Wallace EDITOR Beverly Sellers 03 543 2008 beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz DESIGN Sally Travis Design www.sallytravisdesign.co.nz PRINT Service Printers 81 The Esplanade, Petone Wellington 6141 SUBSCRIPTIONS NZ Plumber is published six times a year by Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ. Members and Certifying tradespeople receive all six editions. If you wish to opt out, please email beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz To order an annual subscription, go to www.masterplumbers.org.nz MAILING LIST For enquiries, or to update your details: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz Non-Master Plumbers’ members with address detail changes should notify the PGD Board direct, giving their registration number here: licensing@pgdb.co.nz TO ADVERTISE Contact Catherine Schuster advertising@masterplumbers.org.nz

NZ Plumber is the official magazine of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc. Contact details for the MPGD Board, Society staff, branches and associations are available at www.masterplumbers.org.nz ©NZ Plumber 2013. Registered as a Newspaper, GPO, Wellington, ISSN 0111-4379. NZ Plumber is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication, unless initially specified otherwise. All letters and other material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled ‘Not for Publication’. Views expressed in articles in NZ Plumber magazine are not necessarily those of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc, or of the Editor. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information included in this publication, the publisher and the Editor take no responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this information. Publication of advertising material implies no endorsement of either a product or service.

Promoting apprenticeships Several moves are afoot to attract young people into plumbing careers. WITH PLUMBING FIRMS around New Zealand crying out for field staff, the biggest issue for our industry is how to fill the skills shortage. One of the ideas under the government’s Construction Skills Action Plan is to subsidise employers who hire young people on the dole and we take a look at the new Mana in Mahi—Strength in Work scheme on p73. Another is to promote group apprentice training schemes, such as the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink scheme, which recently joined forces with ATNZ and The Electrical Training Company to form the NZ Group Training Alliance as a way of sharing expertise and engaging collaboratively with government agencies (see p67). Masterlink has also been running a promotional campaign in the Auckland region to attract quality candidates to plumbing apprenticeships where they are most needed. In the meantime, this year’s Got A Trade! Week has promoted the benefits of doing a trade to school leavers nationwide, with our very own Got A Trade! Plumbing Ambassador Nikita Ward telling her story on video to encourage potential plumbers into a rewarding career (see p72). Now 80, John Butt was a plumbing apprentice all the way back in the 1950s when he had his portrait painted for a mural that still hangs in the Lower Hutt War Memorial Library today. We talked to John about the mural’s intriguing history for the article on p74. We also share the individual success stories of two award-winning plumbing firms—one in the Waikato, the other in London—in our articles on p38 and 20. With apprenticeships still in mind, growing the workforce is the theme of the 2019 NZ Plumbing Conference in Queensland—and registrations are now open. Details on p12 for this fantastic all-of-industry event.

Beverly Sellers Editor, NZ Plumber, beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz

OVER TO YOU The best email, letter, tip or photo sent in by readers that we publish on this page wins a $50 prize voucher! Do you have a picture, story or news to share? Or feedback on any of the articles you’ve read in NZ Plumber? We’d love to hear from you. Email the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz or give me a call on 03 543 2008.

Plumber’s perk? A friend of mine is having some renovations carried out at their house—in particular, the bathroom. As part of the work, the existing hot water cylinder was removed and replaced with an instantaneous water heater. The cylinder was removed off site along with a quantity of copper pipe that the homeowner had accumulated over a period of time and that was not part of the work currently being undertaken. My friend rang the plumbing firm concerned to enquire about the materials that had been removed. He was informed by the office person that this was the ‘plumber’s perk’. My question is: is the removal of building materials from a building site theft? Or is this an area that requires clarification? I look forward to any comments. Derek Staines, Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying Tutor From the Ed: Thanks for your letter Derek. I’ll be keen to see what our readers think. This edition’s letter prize is on its way to you. October/November 2018

Inside this issue

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

EVENTS 7

What’s on Training and events on the industry calendar

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8

CEO Greg Wallace on lead risks in plumbing fittings; Conference 2019; regional events; Best in Brand prize; First Aid discounts, and new members

IN FOCUS 18 Constructive collaboration Master Builders CEO David Kelly discusses the need for industry collaboration 14 Lead alert Lead dangers in plumbing products

TECHNICAL THEME: TAPWARE 23 Water saving with WELS How it applies to tapware and showers 24 Showering technology Katalyst air-induction technology for Kohler’s Exhale showerhead 26 Tap the app Methven technical information at your fingertips

27 In the laundry Laundry Outlet Box installer tips from Allproof

NUTS & BOLTS 32 Greywater—from waste to resource BRANZ is researching greywater reuse 33 LPG in non-workplaces Changes to compliance requirements 34 Passive fire compliance Why a new approach is needed 35 Tech points Technical updates in brief 35 Supplementary heat sources Legionnaires risks explained 37 Ventilation is vital Recent incident highlights importance of proper ventilation

REAL LIVES

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

INDUSTRY TALK

20 A Kiwi in London This Timaru woman is making her mark

28 Time and tide Tide time planning for a wastewater treatment system installation

40 Christchurch HWC failures Is chlorine to blame?

62 Prize plumbing job Master Plumbers Facebook competition winner 4

October/November 2018

40 Future for polytechs Declining numbers lead to review

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018

LEAD IN PLUMBING PRODUCTS

PLUMBING AMBASSADOR

2017 MPA Finalist

A public health risk

Promoting a trades career

49 40 Rockgas sale Contact Energy selling Rockgas LPG retailer 41 Snapper legend Apprentice plumber hooks the prize 43 Our 70th birthday prize winner Prize break for NZ Plumber competition winner 43 Fundraising fun Camaraderie and charity with Caroma 44 KiwiPure charged Water filter claims result in eight charges 44 Misleading representations Steel mesh manufacturer fined 44 Ultimate Reno on TV How Master Plumbers got involved 45 Sam’s speak When you don’t feel safe, speak up! 46 Vision for water Thought leadership from Engineering New Zealand 47 Balancing act Making sure life isn’t all about work

CONFERENCE 2019 Register now for Queensland!

Cover photograph: Risks of lead leaching into the water from plumbing products.

INNOVATION

NEXT GENERATION

49 Seeing is believing State-of-the-art visual experience at Caroma’s Sydney flagship store

65 “Get amongst it!” An apprentice’s advice to school leavers

SMART BUSINESS 52 Surviving an IR audit Tips for when you’re on the IR radar 54 From the IR: payday filing Get ready to shift to the new regime

66 Masterlink messageboard Out and about with Masterlink 68 Associated electrical The importance of getting your Associated Tradesperson Licence

54 Biz brief Short ‘n sweet business news

70 Got A Trade! Got A Trade! Week is growing year on year

55 New business resources HR resources for Master Plumbers members

73 Mana in Mahi launched Employer subsidy for taking on young people on the benefit

56 Embracing technology It can be a business saver, says BNZ

74 Portrait of a plumber The intriguing history behind the painting of a plumber

ACROSS THE DITCH 58 Plumbing cadetship Innovative approach to apprentice training

SAFETY FIRST 61 Toolbox tips H&S updates to share with the team

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 76 New products to look out for

AND FINALLY 78 Offcuts Plumbing-related media snippets 81 Dodgy plumbing Plumbing, gas and drainage—we’ve got the lot! October/November 2018

What’s on

Industry events and training for your calendar.

Auckland Build 2018 Date: 8-9 November Venue: ASB Showgrounds, Auckland

EVENTS

If you have an event you would like to promote in a future edition of NZ Plumber, please email the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz

GasNZ Industry Forum 2018 Date: 7-9 November

Cost: FREE

Venue: The Rydges Hotel, Wellington

Construction, architecture and design exhibition, conference and workshops. Show features: • BCITO Growth Hub Business Training • Construction Expo – 200+ exhibitors • 90+ senior speakers at free conferences, workshops, partner sessions & live demos • Women in Construction Summit • BIM and Digital Construction Summit • Auckland Build & Facilities Management Summit • Networking: live music, The Build Bar, prize giveaways, VR simulators Register FREE at www.aucklandbuildexpo.com

Cost: • Corporate members of LPGA or GANZ: $633 + GST • NZIGE Members: $633 + GST • Non-Members: $757 + GST

Apprentice Roles and Responsibilities Dates: Now-18 December

This year’s Forum will be held from 7-9 November, with an optional half day WorkSafe hazardous substance workshop on the 7th and welcome cocktails in the evening. This year’s Forum will look at: • options for decarbonising gas networks • how LPG can remain relevant in today’s highly disruptive markets • the future for gas in NZ’s energy mix • our energy future from the electricity transmission perspective • how we’re going to run our buildings in future. • The highlight panel discussion will tackle the topic ‘What should the gas industry look like in 2030?’ Networking events comprise a 9-hole ambrose tournament at Manor Park Golf Sanctuary, Weta Workshop tour and outdoor activities at Ohariu Farm. Register online at www.gasnz.org.nz

Cost: FREE This free seminar from Master Plumbers will introduce apprentices to the key roles and responsibilities they have when they sign up to an apprenticeship. It will outline what an employer’s expectations of them are in relation to learning and gaining competency in their trade, and what being employed means. There will also be discussion on how to get the most from an apprenticeship and be successful in the trade. Register FREE at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training

Gas registration exam refresher Date: November Venue: Auckland Lynn Oxenbridge of Gas Training Consultants Ltd intends to run a 2-day gas registration exam refresher course in Auckland in November. A minimum number of enrolments are needed to go ahead. If successful, he will look at repeating the course in 2019 in Auckland and at a South Island venue. Please register your interest in the November course by contacting Lynn: • gastrain08@gmail.com • 027 387 8702

Running a Small Business: Legal and Accounting Dates: Now-29 November Cost: $90 ex GST (member price) In addition to the technical skills needed to be successful in business, some legal and accounting understanding is also required. This Master Plumbers’ training workshop introduces the key legal concepts and important accounting tools needed by a small business. The workshop is presented by two experienced trainers with expertise in accounting and law. Register at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training

Four Levers to Make Sure your Business is Winning Dates: Now-21 November Cost: $90 ex GST (member price) For your business to be successful, you have to know the levers you can pull to make a difference. This course identifies 4 key levers in a business and gives you strategies and practical ways to try and ensure a positive and profitable outcome. The course is presented jointly by Fergus, Master Plumbers and Mico. Register at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training October/November 2018

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Urgent action needed Our independent tapware testing has confirmed our concerns about lead in plumbing products. AS YOU WILL know, we have expressed our concerns for a long time about the lack of regulation for the importation and sale of plumbing products in New Zealand. These have been heightened by reports from the Australian market about lead from plumbing fittings leaching into drinking-water at the new Perth Children’s Hospital and Optus Stadium. I attended the recent 2018 Plumbing Products Industry Group Forum and was particularly interested to hear the presentation by Professor Mark Taylor of Sydney’s Macquarie University on lead contamination in drinking water. Professor Taylor was one of the review authors of an evidence-based review of lead in plumbing products and materials, commissioned by the Australian Building Code Board, and this document contains worrying evidence that supports our public health concerns. Disappointed by a seeming lack of action from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in response to our concerns, Master Plumbers decided to complete testing of randomly selected tapware at an accredited Sydney-based testing facility. Five products were purchased at random from the internet with two samples of each product put through the test procedure. Four of the products tested were WaterMark certified, and passed without any concerns. However, both samples of the non-WaterMark tap failed, with the level of lead leaching from one sample being 70% higher than the allowable limit in the joint Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/ NZS 4020 Testing of products for use in contact with drinking water.

October/November 2018

We have contacted MBIE officials, the Health Minister and the Building and Construction Minister about the results and have also informed the internet reseller of the product, who has since withdrawn it from sale. It was clear from Professor Taylor’s presentation that there are very real health risks to the long-term health of consumers, particularly young children, from lead contamination, and products such as this should not be allowed to be sold in New Zealand. Master Plumbers finds it completely unacceptable that unsafe plumbing products are readily available to consumers. We are spending time and money on product testing and meetings with MBIE officials and other agencies, but ultimately it the government’s responsibility to put in place a system that protects New Zealanders’ health. MBIE has committed to a wide review of building products. However, given its broad scope, this is likely to take time and doesn’t address the immediate plumbing product issues with the urgency we believe is required. We know members have concerns about some of the products you come across in the course of business. We ask you to please provide us with details, which we can add to our portfolio of evidence for MBIE. It is our view that the current voluntary standards for product safety are not working. We would like to see compulsory third-party verification on all plumbing product sold in this country to ensure the product is fit for its intended purpose. Recent steel mesh product failures have shown that self-verification of building products is not reliable, with a civil suit being filed in Christchurch against one manufacturer who made false and misleading claims of Standards compliance. We need to ensure that New Zealand’s plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers can rely with confidence on

any verification of Standards compliance for the products they install. On another note, Associations and Branches will have seen the draft Master Plumbers submission on the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act review, for which we are seeking member feedback. We have had initial meetings with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board and MBIE officials regarding the review, and we ask members to consider any other proposals for change not yet identified, in order for us to finalise the submission. The document is also available in the members area of the Master Plumbers website.

Greg Wallace, CEO Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ

NEW MEMBERS A warm welcome to new Master Plumbers member businesses: • Bayline Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Auckland • Bowen Plumbing & Gasfitting Ltd, Wellington • Coastline Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying, Manawatu • Divine Plumbing, Auckland • Flowtech Plumbing Ltd, Canterbury • Gas & Plumbing Solutions, Auckland • JJK Plumbing & Gas Ltd, Auckland • Just Dig It, Otago • L Kale Plumbing, Auckland • Ocean Plumbing Ltd, Auckland • Orion Plumbing, Auckland • Pacific Plumbing & Gas (2014) Ltd, Waikato • Peter Owen Plumbing & Gasfitting Ltd, Waikato • Proflow Plumbing & Gas, Otago • Underflow Plumbing Ltd, Wellington

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Best in Brand

We have another winner… A $200 Prezzy Card is on its way to Mike at RoyalFlush Plumbing and Gas for this super slick use of the Master Plumbers brand on his vehicle. “I reckon it looks ace!” says Mike, and we totally agree. Give it a go! Send in a photo of how you’re using the Master Plumbers branding on your vehicles, workwear or signage for a chance to win. Just email Sarah Rowe: srowe@masterplumbers.org.nz by Friday 9 November 2018.

Retention survey results

Master Plumbers urged members to give feedback on a retentions survey in August—and the results are in. As a member of the NZ Specialist Trade Contractors Federation (NZSTCF), Master Plumbers is working to ensure the government holds lead contractors to account to ensure subcontractors are protected when a major construction company collapses. To better understand subcontractors’ position following a collapse, NZSTCF put out a survey on retention payments in August. In brief, the results show: • 32% of respondents said all their contracts all fall after 31 March 2017, when the new retention requirements came in • 54% said, where contracts were covered by the new regime, they don’t know if retentions are being held in accordance with the new regulations

•

30% of respondents are owed more than $200,000 in total retentions • 79% are not ensuring that contractors hold their retentions in accordance with the new requirements (many because they don’t know how to do this) • 81% say they are not being offered bonds or insurance in lieu of retentions being held in trust. This supports the findings in the recent BDO Construction Survey Report, which showed that both contractors and subcontractors found the law relating to holding retention monies in trust is confusing—and nearly a third surveyed were not complying. Master Plumbers will continue to provide training and support for members in understanding the new retentions regime. We will keep you posted of activities and initiatives.

Above: Retentions survey results show a lack of understanding and compliance with the new retention payments regime.

Skills shortage list nominations

Plumbers are being considered for MBIE’s skill shortage list. In response to MBIE’s recent request for nominations of occupations for its 2018 Essential Skills in Demand Review, Master Plumbers nominated Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer. In September, we received confirmation

that Plumber would be included in the review. Insufficient Essential Skills work visas had been granted each year for Drainlayer and Gasfitter to be considered. MBIE has now published preliminary evidence for each occupation it intends

to review on its website and is inviting submissions. This is a chance to provide additional information and evidence about the extent of Plumber skill shortages. You can make submissions by 2 November at www.mbie.govt.nz

Introducing Luke Pirie We welcome Luke Pirie as our new Master Plumbers and Masterlink Marketing Manager. Luke is looking forward to meeting with members and Business Partners as he gets into his role. He has wide-ranging marketing

experience, with particular expertise in digital marketing and will be formulating strategic marketing plans for growth in 2019. Luke can be reached at lpirie@masterplumbers.org.nz

October/November 2018

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Canterbury quiz night fun Great to see such a big turnout!

The Canterbury Master Plumbers want to thank everyone who came along to the quiz night at Christchurch Casino in August. “Great to see such a good turnout for a Wednesday night!” says Secretary Lisa Duston. The top three teams were Master Plumbers Supporters, Layne Watson Plumbing and Dux—taking away casino vouchers and whisky for their efforts. “A huge thank you to our sponsors on the night and we look forward to seeing everyone again at the next event!”

Clockwise from above: The first, second and third place winning teams.

Branching out

The Bay of Plenty/Coromandel Master Plumbers held their first meeting as a Branch at the end of August. “We had a great meeting at Mills Reef Winery in Tauranga with 31 in attendance,” says President John Gutry of the Bay of Plenty/Coromandel Master Plumbers first Branch meeting. “New Master Plumbers Business Development Manager Steve Rushworth was among the attendees, as was Masterlink Central North Island Manager Dave McGall. National President Rod Miller gave a speech and presented a membership

Above: John Gutry (left) and Rod Miller with Paul Callinan of new Master Plumbers member company ITS Earthmoving Ltd.

certificate to Paul Callinan from ITS Earthmoving Ltd. Members came from afar as Waihi Beach and Thames.”

Waikato winners

Wintec Atrium was at full capacity for the 2018 Waikato Master Plumbers Awards in September. Politicians, plumbers and the Master Plumbers national president were among the guests and presenters at this year’s Waikato Master Plumbers Awards—and there was much to celebrate, including the 2018 Waikato Master Plumber of the

Above: Brad Kells (left) of Laser Plumbing Hamilton West receiving the 2018 Waikato Master Plumber of the Year Award from Waikato Master Plumbers President Mike Foote.

Above: A packed and popular awards night, now in its fourth year.

October/November 2018

Year winning business, Laser Plumbing Hamilton West. With awards to acknowledge every stage of a plumbing career, from first year apprentice to lifetime industry supporters, it was a night to remember. We’ll bring more coverage of the event in the next edition.

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Gone fishin’

We had a fantastic response to our Facebook Father’s Day prize draw. To celebrate Father’s Day, we ran a prize competition on our consumer Facebook page, with a fantastic Rheem fishing bundle for the lucky draw winner. The response was amazing, with over 700 reactions, comments and shares. Megan

Gould Van Druten’s name was pulled from the hat, winning the Rheem cooler, cap, polar T-shirt, and rod and reel. “Wow thank you so much,” responded Megan. “My husband and son will love using this when going fishing.”

Above: Thanks to Rheem for offering a great Father’s Day prize!

Half Yearly Meeting

The Master Plumbers Half Yearly Meeting was held on 16 October. Delegates from the Master Plumbers Associations and Branches attended the Master Plumbers Half Yearly Meeting in Wellington on 16 October, as NZ Plumber went to press. The focus of the meeting was on growing

the workforce, with a presentation from economic development agency Infometrics and a facilitated group activity. Also speaking at the event were PGDB Chief Executive Martin Sawyers and Skills representatives Di Lithgow and Lance

Riesterer. Delegates were provided with an update on Master Plumbers and Masterlink activities, including advocacy and marketing, ongoing QAs and a consumer survey. We’ll have a full report from the event in the next edition.

Fermit NZ Ltd: new Silver Business Partner Ed Smith provides an introduction to Fermit NZ Ltd and its high-quality product offering for plumbers. Fermit NZ Ltd was born out of a question asked by a plumber immigrating from Germany in 2005. He was amazed at how easy it was to do business here compared with Europe, and impressed by some good NZ technologies— but he was also a bit taken aback at how far behind we were in some areas. After his first ‘taste’ of graphite grease for pipe fitting, he said to me, “Where’s the Fermit?” And I said, “What’s that?” Well, the rest is history. He rang Fermit GmbH and we arranged to bring in some samples. From there, I negotiated to be the NZ agent for Fermit products and brought in the first pallet of neo-Fermit sealing paste in those oh so convenient 150g tubes. Plumbers wisely want to ensure a product

has a good reputation before they use it, so we encouraged plumbers to try it out. We registered the product with all the main plumbing merchants and set it up for plumbers to come in and buy it off the shelf. Over the intervening years, it has grown in popularity and is experiencing a snowball effect as its reputation spreads through word of mouth. Once a plumber uses it for the first time, they are hooked and won’t use anything else. Convenient and versatile, it can be used for tap-fitting, lubing tools and anywhere a neutral, clean lubricant is required. It is the plumbing equivalent of the ubiquitous office paper clip! We are now introducing other products from the range, and finding a ready

acceptance to try these out too. Fermit NZ’s biggest challenge now is to keep up with demand! We welcome enquiries and are always happy to hear feedback from satisfied (or dissatisfied, as we want to fix any issues) customers. Call Fermit NZ Ltd on 09 426 1335; www.fermit.co.nz

Silver Partner

NEW: HR guidance

Head to the website for some brand-new HR guides for members. We’re complementing our HR helpline service with some new guidance materials. Go to the Business Resources section of the member website to find HR Guides on: • Employment Agreements & Policies • Employee Performance

• Recruitment & Selection • Disciplinary Process and Suspension. Plus, there’s a factsheet to help you with hours of work in employment agreements, and a pre-employment checklist. Find it all in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz (under Business Resources/HR support)

October/November 2018

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS

Conference registrations open!

Register now for Conference 2019 in Queensland. Date: 29-31 May 2019 Venue: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Queensland, Australia Earlybird member price (inc all conference activities, meals and accommodation): $1,570 (ex GST) single; $2,410 (ex GST) double Payment options: Credit card or Plumbing World MaxPoints or Mico Trade Edge Points Force for the Future is the theme for next year’s conference, with the focus on how we can grow the workforce to meet demand. The conference venue and accommodation are at the superb InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort in Queensland. This Gold Coast accommodation boasts a marina, golf courses, a one-acre lagoon beach pool and lush gardens—all just a 10-minute drive from the popular Gold Coast theme parks. This is the perfect time of year to escape to Australia for some winter sunshine. Coinciding with the Queen’s Birthday weekend, the event offers attendees a great chance to extend their stay and make a real holiday of it. Families are welcome, with kids’ club activities available at the resort. Preliminary programme Wednesday 29 May: • CPD training session from the PGDB • Technical sessions • Master Plumbers AGM • Welcome reception at the resort’s Beach Lagoon Thursday 30 May: • Business sessions, guest speakers and social evening event Friday 31 May: • Ambrose golf tournament at the Palms Golf Course or trip to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, followed by free time • NZ Plumbing Awards Dinner at the resort. Register now at www.conference2019.org.nz

October/November 2018

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

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

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

October/November 2018

IN FOCUS

Lead alert In this opinion piece, Rob Bolus of Methven discusses the origins and risks of lead in plumbing products, and why change is needed in New Zealand.

Global moves to low-lead and lead-free plumbing products Global recognition of lead health risks is growing. In New Zealand, measures have been taken to reduce exposure by removing lead from petrol, stopping the sale of lead-based paints and banning lead piping and lead-based solders from use in plumbing. Having ticked off the low-hanging fruit, there is now a global legislative trend towards reducing lead in plumbing systems to trace

Lead and Drinking Water

Lead is a highly poisonous metal and can affect almost every organ in the body and the nervous system. People can be exposed to lead through inhalation, ingestion and to a lesser extent, dermal contact. The most common source of lead exposure is ingestion of old lead paint. Exposure to lead from drinking water is less common yet, as demonstrated in Flint, MI, lead in water can have serious consequences.

Getting the Lead Out: To protect public health, we must reduce lead exposure at the drinking water tap. To make this a reality Clean Water Action is: • advocating for proper implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act’s Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), including effective “corrosion control” at drinking water treatment plants to prevent lead leaching out of pipes and plumbing fixtures and monitoring to assess lead in water systems; Above: children areLCR, particularly the effects lead • workingYoung for improvements in the which the US vulnerable Environmental to Protection Agency of (EPA) the willhuman update in body. 2017; and, • supporting communities and water systems in replacing lead service lines and taking other steps to get lead out of contact with drinking water.

Health Impacts of Lead ADULTS Brain

Memory loss, lack of concentration, headaches, irritability, depression.

Digestive System

Constipation, nausea and poor appetite

Nervous System

Damage including numbness and pain in the extremities

Exposure to severe dama high levels of lead can cau ge to the bra se in, blood an Children unde d kidneys. poisoning. Eve r six are most at risk fro m lead n low levels of lead exposu been found re ha to pe ability and cau rmanently reduce cognit ve ive se hyperacti vity in childr en.

Body

Fatigue, joint and muscle pain

Cardiovascular

High blood pressure

CHILDREN Brain

Behavior problems, lower IQ, hearing loss, learning disabilities

Kidneys

Body

Abnormal function and damage

decreased bone and muscle growth

Reproductive System

Men: Decreased sex drive and sperm count, and sperm anomalies. Women: Spontaneous miscarriage

Blood

Anemia

Kidneys

Abnormal function and damage

Nervous System Damage

Above: This diagram is part of a Lead and Drinking Water Fact Sheet from US advocacy group Clean Water Action.

A brief history of plumbing and lead Plumbing has been around for almost 4,000 years, used in the ancient civilizations as they developed public baths and needed to provide potable water and wastewater removal for larger numbers of people. Primarily fashioned from stone, earthenware, wood or bamboo, indoor plumbing was transformed by the plumbing engineers of the Old Roman Empire by introducing a new material… lead. The Latin word for lead is plumbum. Romans used Plumbārius to refer to someone working with lead, and this was later shortened to Plumber. With a comparatively low cost, low melting point, high ductility and excellent resistance to corrosion, lead was ideal to form and join pipes that carried water around the Roman Empire’s municipalities. After the fall of the Roman Empire, innovation in water supply and sanitation stagnated until the densely populated cities of the 1800s

October/November 2018

necessitated better sanitation to prevent or control epidemics of disease. During this Industrial Revolution, production of lead exceeded that of Ancient Rome. A great share of the demand came from plumbing and lead-based paints. With increased exposure came a greater incidence of lead poisoning, which in turn led to research into the effects of lead consumption. Other materials were found for use in plumbing systems. Lead pipes were replaced with copper, and fittings and valves made of bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) were replaced with brass—a cheaper alloy of copper and zinc. To make brass easier to manufacture, a small percentage of lead was added to the copper/zinc alloy. Typically, copper pipes and brass fittings were joined with solder, an alloy of tin and lead. Although lead had been recognised as a cause of illness, the measures taken were actually aimed at reducing exposure.

www.cleanwateraction.org

LEAD IS ADDED to brass to improve machinability and corrosion resistance. It can be found in all kinds of contemporary plumbing products and fittings, including tapware, mixers and valves. In older homes, lead may also be found in lead-soldered joints of copper pipes or in flashings and lead paint on roofs. Lead contamination in drinking water arises when water is left sitting in plumbing fittings and the lead and other heavy metals leach into the water. All water dissolves heavy metals to some extent but the more acidic (lower pH) the water, the more it does so. This ‘plumbosolvent’ water, as it’s known, is typical in New Zealand, which is why the Ministry of Health advises householders via water utilities to flush a mugful (500ml) of water from the tap each morning. The World Health Organisation has stated there is no safe limit for neurotoxic metals such as lead. Lead has no confirmed biological role in the human body, is bio-accumulative, poisonous and does not break down. Exposure to high levels of lead can cause severe damage to the brain, blood and kidneys, with unborn children and those under six at most risk. Even low levels of lead exposure have been found to permanently reduce cognitive ability and cause hyperactivity in children.

element level. The US regulations now stipulate a maximum lead content in brass 32 times lower than the limit 20 years ago (from 8% down to 0.25%). Similar moves are afoot in Europe, where lead is now deemed to be a substance of very high concern. Australia is also reportedly looking at introducing low-lead brass requirements in the National Above: Methven’s Group Construction Code by 2022. Standards & Technology The World Health Organisation Manager, Rob Bolus, wants to see NZ following the global has set a provisional lead in trend for low- and zero-lead drinking water guideline at 10 tapware. micrograms per litre (10 µg/l), whilst stating that all practical measures to reduce total exposure to lead should be implemented. Both Europe and China have set a 5µg/l lead precipitation limit, but New Zealand and Australia currently have a 10µg/l requirement in drinking water product testing standard AS/NZS 4020. AS/NZS 4020 is specified in Acceptable Solution G12/AS1 and Verification Method G12/VM1 of New Zealand Building Code Clause G12 Water Supplies—and is the only test method prescribed in the Building Code to test for heavy metal extraction for components used in water supply. The tapware standard AS/NZS 3718 currently sets an upper limit of 4.5% lead content in tapware and prescribes compliance with AS/NZS 4020. However, the standard is not mandatory, as it is not cited in G12. So, whilst WaterMark certified tapware complies with AS/NZS 4020, WaterMark certification is not compulsory in New Zealand. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is conducting a review of joint Standards, and potentially only those that are cited in NZ regulations will receive government funding. If that were taken away for AS/NZS 3718, we would have no tapware standards in this country and any products could be brought into New Zealand. I, for one, don’t want to see the rest of the world heading towards low lead and lead-free tapware, leaving New Zealand as a potential dumping ground for poor quality products. When the US moved to low-lead tapware, Canada quickly followed suit to avoid being deluged with products that could no longer be sold in the US. In New Zealand, we risk the same fate if Australia moves to low lead and we take no action. ■ About the author: Rob Bolus is a plumbing industry research and development engineer. He is Group Standards & Technology Manager for Methven and has been with the company for over 30 years. Rob is also a representative on various international Standards development committees, currently participating on tapware, WELS and shower committees. He is an advocate for the prevention of lead contamination from plumbing products in drinking water supplies.

Methven tapware solutions Methven is addressing water quality and lead issues with the recent release of several tapware products with very low or zero lead levels that exceed Building Code quality standards. Its T roa, Aio and Surface collections are manufactured from Eco brass®, a zero-lead material. T roa uses both stainless steel and Eco brass®. Learn more at www.methven.com/nz/collections

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IN FOCUS

Master Plumbers wants Government action on plumbing products

Results are in from tapware testing by Master Plumbers. Master Plumbers has alerted the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Building and Construction to plumbing fittings available in New Zealand that may be leaching lead into drinking water. The organisation has been concerned for some time

about the potential for unacceptable levels of lead in imported tapware and pipe systems, and these concerns have been heightened by reports from Australia of lead contamination in water supplies at Perth Children’s Hospital and the Optus Stadium. Master Plumbers purchased a random selection of five tapware products for independent testing to AS/NZS 4020 at a certified laboratory in Australia. Two samples of each tap were tested, and all four samples with WaterMark certification passed the test. However, the levels of lead leaching into the water from the two product samples of the non-WaterMarked tap were 70% and 40% higher than the Standard's allowable limit. "The allowable limit in AS/NZS 4020 is double that of European and US standards, which makes this failure particularly concerning," says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. "If we had tested to European and US standards, some of the WaterMarked taps would also have failed. We want to see New Zealand keeping up with the global trend towards low-lead and zero-lead tapware."

Plumbing network backs calls for updated industry regulations

Laser Group in Australia supports point of sale regulation for plumbing products. In the August edition of Australia’s Plumbing Connections magazine, Laser Group Australia director Steve Keil backed calls for the Point of Sale (POS) regulations around the WaterMark product certification to be updated, keeping in line with the changing industry. “Currently, the liability of the installation of a certified product lays with the person installing, and if you knowingly purchased the product without certification, then you would be held fully responsible for any damage caused through the product failure,” says Steve. “But the original regulations were produced at a time where homeowners and plumbers purchased their product through suppliers who specialised in these items and ensured that the product was compliant with legislatory requirements. We now have individuals bringing in container loads of product for their projects with price being the main motivator as well as purchasing online. And nobody is checking whether the product is compliant. In these cases, the responsibility also needs to lay at the POS.” Steve believes that this also highlights the importance of using a

October/November 2018

registered plumber for any plumbing work on your home. “A registered plumber will recognise when the product isn’t compliant with national regulations and the risks associated with the specific products. These risks can have devastating results, not only on your home, but also your health. “It is important that consumers realise the risks associated with using plumbing products which do not meet code. Potential issues we have seen as a result of using non-compliant products have included increased levels of lead in their water as well as sewage and stormwater being mixed which in turn impacts the community. “We call upon Federal and State Governments to recognise the risks of not updating, regulating and policing the Watermark legislation and continue working with the industry to ensure that public health is not put at risk due to legislation not matching consumer practice. “We also stress to consumers to ensure that your plumber is licenced and that they know where the product they are using has come from and complies with Australian standards.” Text reproduced courtesy of Plumbing Connection, August 2018

plumbing conference 2019 New Zealand

29-31 May, Queensland, Australia

Force for the Future Full programme details at www.conference2019.org.nz

IN FOCUS

Constructive collaboration David Kelly, Chief Executive of Master Builders, discusses the need for collaboration in the construction sector. THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR is under pressure. We all agree no one is winning in the current environment. There is not enough cash in the system, margins are too low, there is too much risk being taken on and pushed down the supply chain, and there is a lack of schedule of quantities—this affects not just our Master Builders, but subcontractors and other industry professionals as well. At Master Builders we understand that change requires industry collaboration, and we are working closely with the sector to find solutions. This includes working with Master Plumbers, alongside other leading groups such as the NZ Specialist Trade Contractors Federation and Civil Contractors New Zealand (CCNZ).

we all agree no one is winning in the current environment

Above: Master Builders Chief Executive, David Kelly.

October/November 2018

It is up to all of us to step up. This starts with educating our clients. We need to help them to understand the process so they move away from their focus on the cheapest price. As we know, this will not provide the best value for building with a lifespan of at least 50 years. But as a sector we need to also play our part. We need to be mindful of the types of projects we are taking on. We are calling on all contractors, from the project leads to the subcontractors, to make sure we fully understand the contracts we are signing. Part of this is understanding risk, which we know is being transferred down the supply chain and is often putting subcontractors in a vulnerable position. We need to say no and push back on unfair terms and conditions. We need to demand we are given the time and information we require to get things right. In August, we launched our Lead Contractor Guidelines at the ‘all-ofsector’ Constructive Forum to help ensure we understand the risk we are taking on when we sign contracts. The guidelines were developed by the Vertical Construction Leaders’ Group, which came out of the first Constructive Forum in 2016 and is overseen by Master Builders. The group includes the CEOs of New Zealand’s leading commercial construction companies, and advocates on a number of broader policy issues, including risk transfer, procurement,

subcontractors are often put in a vulnerable position

PRACTICE NOTE 1: COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS GUIDANCE 16 August 2018

Above: You are urged to make use of the new lead contractor guidelines. Workshops and panel sessions are also being planned.

KiwiBuild, and retentions. This group, led by Master Builders, is committed to working closely with the sector. We will continue to update our guidelines regularly and make them available—and we urge you to use them. We will also be organising workshops in the main centres and working with the Society of Construction Law to deliver panel sessions to raise awareness about understanding risk. Our current issues are complex and multifaceted. They require the industry to work together, and with Government, to navigate the changes required. Our collaboration with Master Plumbers, CCNZ, and NZSTCF is only one part of puzzle—more is needed across the industry. We believe this is too important to get wrong. We are talking about more than just buildings—these are the homes, workplaces and communities our society is based on. ■

478 478 438 438 478478

13~62 13~62

215 215

438438

150 150

150150

Finished FinishedFloor Floor

Finished Floor Finished Floor

90mm 90mm

Water Water supply supply to bidet to bidet

90mm 90mm

Fixing Fixing holes holes

208 208 308 308

Signal Signal Water Water wire wire supply supply to tobidet bidet

208 208 308 308

S-Trap S-Trap pipe pipe

Fit Fit Electrical Electrical

Junction Junction BoxBox Fixing holes Fixing holes

254 254 100 100

S-Trap S-Trap pipe pipe

254 254 100 100

Power Power supply supply Power Power Signal Signal supply supply wire wire

35 35

1320 1320 533 533 533 533

675675

1027 1027

675 675

Fit FitElectrical Electrical Junction JunctionBox Box

1320 35 351320

215215

150 150

438438 438 438

13~62 13~62

Finished Finishedfloor floor

180 180 230 230

Finished Finished floor floor 180180 230230

REAL LIVES

A Kiwi in London New Zealander Anne Timpany has been a driving force in turning a domestic plumbing operation in London into a multimillion-pound company. By Matthew Lowe.

WHEN IT COMES to hiring plumbers, Anne Timpany reckons New Zealanders are the best in the business. Anne, who grew up in Timaru, and her Albanian husband Raff Agalliu started On Tap Plumbers in London in 2009 and they have seen the firm grow into a key player for large-scale commercial developments in the English capital. At its peak, the company has had more than 70 plumbers on its books, including 12 apprentices, and Anne says staff from New Zealand and Australia have regularly outshone their European counterparts. “We have taken on a lot of Australian and Kiwi plumbers over the years because the quality of work we get with them is often higher than people we recruit in London,” she says. “A lot of the New Zealand guys have skill sets, like brazing, that they do not get in colleges in the UK, where they are very much teaching them the old school way of doing plumbing. “When Kiwi guys come on board with us they get promoted pretty quickly through the ranks. They are well regarded among the other plumbers working for us and they help develop those other staff and teach them skills.”

Commercial construction focus

Raff had been working for a north London plumbing company before the couple decided to start their own firm. They registered On Tap Plumbers in November 2009 and began trading in February the following year. “I said to Raff, you know how to plumb but you don’t know how to sell and market yourself so why don’t we put our two heads together and see how it works. “We started with domestic plumbing, got a van and tools and a uniform. We needed marketing, a website and needed to look right. I went around a lot of networking events in north London meeting business people and we have managed to grow the business from day one.” Anne says On Tap Plumbers decided to focus solely on commercial construction work in 2014, in part to scale the business up faster but also so Raff could “get off the tools and be at home more” with her and their three sons, aged four, seven and eight. Since then the company has worked on landmark skyscrapers in London including the Leadenhall Building, which is also known as the Cheesegrater, and 20 Fenchurch Street—or the Walkie Talkie as it has been nicknamed. Other big projects in the English capital have included offices for Facebook, Amazon’s London headquarters and a 360-room tower block at Canary Wharf. 20

October/November 2018

Above: Timaru woman Anne Timpany is director of London’s On Tap Plumbers.

it’s exciting being part of the development of iconic buildings “For us to get into the sector then was a good time because the industry has grown so much,” Anne says. “The landscape of London has changed enormously and it’s exciting being part of the development of iconic buildings. “I always had high hopes for myself and was confident I would push myself whatever I did. However, I could never have foreseen I would be in the UK running a multimillion plumbing business with three sons and an Albanian husband—but saying that I feel very blessed.”

Tempting women into the industry

Anne studied English and theatre at Victoria University in Wellington before working in hospitality and marketing roles in New Zealand, Australia, the US and Britain. While she had long dreamt of working in a large city, she never envisaged she would

REAL LIVES

one day be working in the male-dominated world of plumbing. The 40-year-old says while many firms in London’s commercial sector are conservative and traditional, operating like an old boys’ club, she has not had any problems being one of the few women making headway in the industry. “I have pretty much found that I have been well regarded and haven’t experienced any chauvinism or sexism. Growing up in a family with three brothers and my father, who was a successful businessman in his own right, has given me the confidence to happily talk to other blokes. “The only very minor assumption some people make is thinking I am the accounts lady. In many husband-and-wife

teams the wife is doing admin but I have become much more of a force in the business and that comes from the fact that Raff and I work well together.” Anne says you cannot suddenly expect a “bunch of young girls to be interested in plumbing”, but she hopes eventually there will be greater female presence in the industry. She believes raising the standards and the credibility of the industry in Britain may be one way to tempt more women to become plumbers. “The industry needs to be more innovative and that will bring in diversity and people from different backgrounds.”

she hopes eventually there will be greater female presence in the industry

Anne’s efforts as a company director have also been recognised in winning Britain’s NatWest Everywoman Athena Award 2017, presented to a woman running a business trading between six and nine years, and she is also a finalist in the Family Entrepreneur of the Year section of the NatWest Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2018, being announced in November. “It is a fantastic feeling to get this amount of recognition, especially not being from Britain and being up for a Great British entrepreneur award,” she says. “Winning the Everywoman award was very special. Before that I was trying to get around and talk to as many people as possible about improving industry standards… but now people are coming to me and asking me to speak at big conferences.” ■

The Leadenhall Development Company Ltd.

Recognition of efforts

Anne’s top tips for success •

• •

It’s not about turnover, it’s about profit, so no matter how busy you get, you need to make sure you have got money coming in and are making a profit. Don’t take it personally—it’s only business. If you don’t know how to do something… get an expert in. It can take you a long time to progress if you are always trying to figure things out for yourself.

Above: The company has worked on some of London’s landmark skyscrapers, including the Leadenhall Building (centre), aka the Cheesegrater.

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October/November 2018

TECHNICAL THEME

TAPWARE Bathroom, kitchen and laundry tapware is in the spotlight this edition.

In this section

23 24 26 27

Water saving with WELS Showering technology Tap the app In the laundry

TECHNICAL PAGE THEME TAG

Water saving with WELS

Greens Tapware explains how the WELS water efficiency labelling scheme applies to tapware and showers.

THE WATER EFFICIENCY Labelling Scheme (WELS) is designed to provide information, through labelling at the point of sale, to consumers buying products that use water. Both the New Zealand and the Australian WELS labels convey the same water efficiency information. The purpose of the label is to help consumers choose products that use less water but still provide a satisfactory level of quality and performance. WELS does not apply to bath mixers, shower mixers or bath spouts. Taps The WELS Scheme applies to any tap or tap outlet for use over a basin, ablution trough, kitchen sink or laundry tub as specified in AS/NZS 3718:2005 Water supply – Tap ware. WELS taps save water because: • Typical taps discharge 15 to 18 litres per minute compared with low-flow and aerating models which use as little as 2 litres per minute depending on the intended application • Taps with an aerator or flow restrictor may reduce flow to less than a third of standard taps. Showers The WELS Scheme applies to showers intended solely for personal bathing as specified in AS/NZS 3662:2005 Performance of showers for bathing. Showers generate about 25% of water savings under the WELS Scheme because:

Above: The new water efficiency label design was introduced in 2017.

Above: WELS-rated Textura Brushed Brass tap from Greens Tapware.

•

Star rating The WELS label displays two key pieces of information: • A star rating indicating relative water efficiency

Water consumption All WELS labels have a water consumption or flow figure in: • Litres per minute (for showers and taps) • Litres per wash (for clothes washing machines and dishwashers) • Litres per flush (for lavatories and urinals). Labels on lavatories display figures for litres per half flush, full flush, and average flush (the average of four half flushes and one full flush).

A standard showerhead uses about 15 to 25 litres of water per minute, whereas a 3-star rated water efficient showerhead uses as little as 6 or 7 litres per minute. • A standard shower head uses at least 120 litres of water per eight-minute shower whereas a water efficient model uses less than 72 litres, or 40% less water. • Installing a water-efficient showerhead saves about 14,500 litres per household each year. Under the WELS Scheme a rating is given to a showerhead and any additional component supplied with the head such as pivoting arm, flexible hose or flow controller. However, additional components cannot be rated separately from the head.

A water consumption or water flow figure. Each product label displays a star rating out of six. The more stars, the more water efficient. At the moment, showers will only have a maximum rating of three stars, while the other product types can achieve up to six stars. This is because New Zealand and Australia do not yet have a laboratory test to ensure that very low-flow shower products will deliver acceptable performance.

October/November 2018

PAGE TAG THEME TECHNICAL

Showering technology

Katalyst air-induction technology has been used to luxurious effect in Kohler’s Exhale showerhead.

INSPIRED BY THE textured surface of a dahlia flower, Kohler’s latest showerhead Exhale is a meeting of nature and technology, combining the organic aesthetic with Katalyst air-induction technology. The technology behind Exhale delivers an enhanced showering experience, with larger and more luxurious water droplets than conventional showers. This effect has been achieved by an optimised spray face. With Katalyst technology, Kohler has changed the nozzles—in size, configuration and angle—and introduced air induction technology. By adding a hole in the ball joint behind the showerhead, air is drawn into the stream of water at a rate of 2.2L of air per 9.5L of water each minute, producing the larger water droplets. Key to this technology is the fact it can’t be seen, while the introduction of the air to the water stream cannot be heard. So, there is no visible or audible intrusion

into the showering experience. The Exhale showerhead and slide shower are both suitable for mains pressure of between 200 and 500kPa. The Exhale multifunction slide shower has a choice of four spray patterns, adjusted by rotating the spray face. While increasing the volume of the water experience, Kohler’s Katalyst airinduction technology actually reduces water consumption. By injecting air into the water flow, the size of the droplets is increased, creating a perception of more water—yet it uses just 9 litres of water a minute and carries a 3-star WELS rating. Durability and longevity are key to Kohler’s design ethos. The spray face features a unique silicone surface with rub-clean nozzles that ensure any mineral deposits are easily wiped away. The polished chrome finish is corrosionand tarnish-resistant.

Above: Close-up of the Exhale showerhead.

Above: A luxurious showering experience.

October/November 2018

For more information go to kohler.co.nz

Above: How the air-induction technology works.

Above: Air in the water means larger droplets and reduced water use.

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TECHNICAL THEME

Tap the app “I ENCOURAGE ALL plumbers to download the free Methven plumber app from the Apple App Store or Google Play,” says Methven’s National Plumber Manager Craig Alexander. “It’s a great tool for plumbers to gain access to anything Methven at their fingertips.” The plumber app displays the entire Methven product range within the categories of Tapware, Showers, Valves and Spare Parts. “Accompanying each product listing is a photograph and recommended retail price as a useful guideline for clients. Installers can also view installation instructions, line drawings, spec sheets and CAD data files,” he says. “The Spare Parts category provides a full listing of available Methven spare parts, with product numbers, prices, features and specifications.” The app also displays any current

Technical information is at your fingertips with the new Methven Plumber App. promotions and product updates, such as Methven’s Trade Tapware Refresh, which includes new modernised handles at an everyday low price. Product ranges in the refresh include Futura, Echo Centique, Celeste and Promix. Plumbers can talk to their trade desk to find out what their new price is.

Personal service If plumbers still have questions, Methven offers a Customer Care service on 0800 804 222. “We’re also very happy to show plumbers around the Methven manufacturing plant in Auckland by appointment,” says Craig. “Over 120 staff work at Methven’s NZ facility in Avondale. It’s at this manufacturing plant where we engineer and test products to meet New Zealand quality standards and carry out all our research and development.”

www.hydroflow.co.nz

TECHNICAL THEME

In the laundry into the wall. This product WITH MID- TO highallows for the washing density housing being machine to be pushed back seen as the solution to directly up against the wall affordable housing in many thus maximising the space. NZ cities, it is becoming The unit itself has hot and increasingly important not cold pipe locators, offering only to provide economic the option for top feed or solutions that help the bottom feed scenarios, with trades but also to maximise plugs supplied for surplus the available space. holes. The Âź turn washing Allproof Industries have machine taps included are recently launched a new chrome-plated brass with product that addresses cold and hot identifying these points: the Laundry marks. The waste outlet Outlet Box. This new fits 50mm PVC pipe with a product creates an easy-toglued push fit connection install solution for keeping and will require a glued trap services to the laundry Above: A typical Laundry installed within the wall tidy with minimal impact Outlet Box installation. cavity. on the space. The Laundry Allproof created this product with Outlet Box is a recessed unit supplied the trade in mind by keeping the install complete with washing machine taps and process as easy as possible. The body of a 50mm waste outlet that can be recessed

Allproof Industries provide installer tips for their new Laundry Outlet Box.

the unit is fixed to the framing with four location points for support. The pipework is then installed into the body using back-lock nuts. While the pipes are still exposed, screw the taps and glue fit the pipe riser into the 50mm outlet. Cut a hole in the plasterboard approximately 190mm wide x 110mm high where the Laundry Outlet Box is located and fix it to the wall. The push fit faceplate has a wide edge allowing any rough edges of plasterboard to be hidden from view, creating an elegant finish. Allproof also offer a small option, which provides a 50mm waste outlet for situations where taps are already present. The Allproof Laundry Outlet Box is available from any plumbing or building merchant. For further details and information regarding this product, please visit allproof.com

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PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Time and tide

Installing a wastewater treatment system at this beachside bach involved some careful planning around tide times, as Matthew Lowe reports. WHEN A NEWLY-built getaway on the fringes of the Abel Tasman National Park needed a wastewater treatment system, the owners called on Davies Plumbing and Drainlaying for the job. Owner and director Nick Davies spent two-and-a-half days with colleague Peter Mead installing a Biolytix BioPod and drainage systems into the couple’s property. It was a pretty straightforward job, says Nick—apart from the remote location. “The tank had already been barged into Awaroa by the owners. We drove to Awaroa car park on the other side of the estuary and took a barge across with a digger and the pipe we needed. “The hardest thing was making sure we were there for the tide to sail across, and working around those tide times. “We have helicoptered tanks into places in Abel Tasman before, so there’s not much we can’t do in terms of accessibility.”

Worms for the waste

Nick says the Biolytix BioPod was a good fit for the threebedroom bach on a 1,200sq m section that its owners expect will be occupied for about three to four months a year. The tank, which can process 1,500 litres of wastewater a day, was installed in mid-August and after a certain amount of use will have one kilogram of tiger worms added to break down the waste solids. Solid waste from the bach’s toilet will be captured at the top of the BioPod filter by a media layer, while the black- and greywater trickles through the system. The treated, filtered water, captured in the bottom of the tank will then be pumped out and used to irrigate the property. 28

October/November 2018

Top: Nick Davies and Peter Mead take the barge across the Awaroa Inlet. Above: A digger and equipment waits to be loaded on the barge.

Cost considerations

“The owners at Awaroa looked at other treatment systems but the cost of moving sand to do those was pretty high so they went with Biolytix, which did not need digging up the whole backyard to do it,” Nick says.

“All black- and greywater comes into the tank and it takes 20 minutes to pass through. By the time it reaches the bottom it is clear, odourless, secondary treated wastewater that then gets pumped out. “The worms go into the tank after a month or so and they populate to how much food is there—you shouldn’t need to add any more. Plus, the overall power consumption of the Biopod for a year is only about $30 to $40, so it is good for off-grid situations.” The treated water at the Awaroa site will be dispersed through 206m of Wasteflow drip irrigation, which has a herbicidal layer impregnated into the plastic of the emitters and a non-mobile, anti-microbial lining inside the pipe to reduce the organic growth. A manual flush valve has been installed at about 100m to clear out any debris if necessary.

A logistical challenge

The owners of the bach, Jenny and Nick Dicks, who live in the Tasman region, bought the section in Awaroa in 2015 and after spending about a year clearing the site they began building in February 2017. They had builders on site for just 27 days to install the A1 Homes kitset with much of the other work at the property being done by themselves, friends and family. “Any work we do at the bach, we always have to wait for the tides to get in and out,” says Jenny. “So, while it’s a fantastic location, logistically it is always challenging.” Getting the BioPod to the bach was particularly challenging due to its bulk, says Nick. “We had to be careful because the track to the car park is an unmetalled road and we were worried about the trailer bottoming out, and then we took it across the inlet on the [Awaroa] Lodge’s barge.

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Above: Peter Mead (left) and Nick Davies work together to install the BioPod.

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PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

“We had about a three-day window for getting the BioPod installed, with a big enough tide to get the tank over… and then there was the weather to think about. The first day we planned for the job the weather was looking awful so we put things back a day and then thankfully had three clear days. “The guys stayed a couple of nights because there’s no popping in and out—you’re there for the duration. It was amazing how little they disturbed the land to put in the drainage and irrigation.” Jenny says she likes the idea of the BioPod being its own ecosystem, particularly as they are by the sea. “It is good to know no waste or discharge is going anywhere but our patch,” she says. Installation of the BioPod and drainage systems has all but completed the project and the couple are now looking forward to being able to regularly escape to their bolt hole.

Technological advances

Nick Davies has worked with Biolytix products for about a decade and this latest project adds to the more than 260 of the firm’s wastewater treatment systems he has installed around the Nelson-Tasman region. “The technology has moved on a lot,” he says. “It was an Australian company originally, but that went into liquidation in 2011; the manager running it here [in New Zealand] took it on with three other engineers. They have developed it over the years and made a lot of recent changes to make the BioPod as good as it can be. “The tank is made in Australia, the aerator in Germany and the pump is Italian, but everything else is manufactured in New Zealand.

Above: Pipework at the bach. 30

October/November 2018

“With the treated effluent in the clay-type soils around the area, we are generally working on evaporation and transpiration more due to poor percolation through the soil. In treating the water so well, it can be distributed easily through subsurface dripline. And while most people wish they could have a standard septic tank, for some soils and sites that won’t work so easily and Biolytix is a good solution.” Nick says the average price for a full installation of a Biolytix BioPod is $17,500, which includes 500 metres of irrigation. ■ Biolytix is always keen to talk to plumbers and drainlayers in areas of the country where it is not currently represented. Anyone interested in finding out more can email info@biolytix.com or phone 0800 700 818.

How the Biolytix BioPod works Inside the BioPod is a layered filter bed, engineered to separate the solids from the liquid sewage quickly and to provide a stable environment for the micro and macro organisms that break down the separated solid waste into a stable humic product. The organisms, including tiger worms introduced to the BioPod on commissioning, ensure the entire filter bed is naturally aerated. The organisms feed on the waste, removing most of the contaminants from the wastewater. The total power consumption of a typical BioPod is a little over 100kW per year—about the same as running a 13kW LED light bulb.

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stiebel.co.nz/decentralised

NUTS & BOLTS

Greywater – from waste to resource As awareness of the precious nature of water as a resource increases, ways of conserving and reusing it are in the spotlight. BRANZ is researching greywater reuse by looking at quality issues and legislative hurdles. WATER IS THE world’s most critical resource. Increasing environmental pressures, such as population growth, climate change and water quality, have meant a growing interest in water reuse options and alternative water sources, such as rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse.

Variety of reuses A large proportion of residential and commercial water could potentially be substituted with alternative water sources, such as roof water and greywater (see Figure 1). Greywater is commonly defined as untreated wastewater from a building excluding toilet water (known as blackwater) and often excludes discharges from the kitchen due to high organic matter levels. Greywater from hand basins (excluding the kitchen), bathtubs and showers can be reused for activities such as toilet flushing and subsurface garden irrigation but is not recommended for use on vegetable gardens.

Many benefits from greywater reuse Greywater reuse is commonly only perceived as a solution to water shortage. However, recent studies have shown other benefits including cost, sustainability and reduced environmental impacts of discharge. Further, greywater reuse provides benefits for both property owners and water service providers. Used as an alternative water source, it has the potential to: • reduce the volume of wastewater to be treated, which has financial and environmental benefits • reduce demand • free up capacity in wastewater and water supply for future growth, potentially extending the timeframe for infrastructure upgrades • provide resilience in the case of a natural disaster or emergency • save on a household’s water use bill (if metered) • support garden irrigation during water restrictions.

Three drivers for greywater recycling A 2014 industry survey observed that the top three drivers for greywater recycling were environmental reasons, cost and impact on supply. 32

October/November 2018

Figure 1: A large proportion of residential water can come from a greywater recycling system.

In the Kapiti Coast area, for example, it has been reported that 68% (160 L/p/d) of residential water demand is water available for greywater reuse. If reused, this represents a large proportion of a household’s daily water use not needing to be sourced from the water supply network.

Barriers to uptake Despite positive sustainability options from greywater reuse, there are several barriers to the uptake of greywater recycling systems, including perceived human health risks from water quality and waterborne disease and cost/maintenance. A further complication is that, currently, there are no national guidelines in the legislation around greywater reuse in New Zealand. This means it is inconsistently regulated. While some district councils, such as Kapiti Coast District Council, allow greywater reuse and have guidelines in place, other parts of the country have only partial or no policy guidelines.

BRANZ looking at greywater quality To understand more about the risks to human health from greywater reuse, BRANZ, in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR), is undertaking research into the quality of greywater from a range of sources. The research compares residential and commercial greywater to assess whether there is a difference in greywater quality from different sources and between building typologies. Water samples were taken weekly over a period of 2-6 months, depending on the building.

NUTS & BOLTS

Greywater samples have been tested for Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) counts and are to be compared to international greywater guidelines. E. coli is an indicator of human faecal contamination and is typically used as an indicator of water quality and public health risk. P. aeruginosa is a micro-organism commonly found in greywater and recognised as an opportunistic pathogen that has a potential public health risk.

Some preliminary results with untreated water Preliminary results from the research show E. coli counts to be greatest in residential shower samples, followed by residential laundry samples, and are lowest in bathroom hand basins. In terms of P. aeruginosa counts, samples from residential hand basins had the most variation. The lowest concentrations were found in residential shower samples. The counts of E. coli in the commercial building samples were higher in commercial showers then hand basins. Further investigation is required, alongside a comparison from the international literature to conclude what effect this would have on reuse opportunities and human health. It is important to note that the counts of E. coli and P. aeruginosa in the greywater samples are all direct from their source and were not treated.

Previous study of treated water A previous BRANZ study sampled the quality of a single commercial building’s greywater. The greywater originated from hand basins and underwent filtration and treatment. In this study, low levels of E. coli were found in the pretreatment samples. Post-treatment, no E. coli or other microbial detections occurred. A basic treatment system therefore would likely aid in reducing the levels of E. coli observed in the above samples.

Still more to learn A full comparison of these results with international greywater literature is still to be conducted. This will generate further discussion around the suitability of the sampled greywater sources for reuse in an effort to help inform policy and regulation in this area. While reuse of greywater is important for sustainability, recommendations around potential end uses and risks to public health are yet to be firmly established. This new research project is an effort to fill this gap in knowledge.

For more Further information on how greywater systems work is available at www.level.org.nz/water/wastewater. This collaborative research project is co-funded by BRANZ and ESR. ■ © BRANZ Build 167 (August 2018)

LPG at non-workplaces Compliance requirements for more than 100kg of LPG at non-workplaces. ON 1 DECEMBER 2017, compliance changes were introduced for more than 100kg of LPG at non-workplaces. These requirements remain under the EPA and did not transfer to WorkSafe. Non-workplaces include homes, public places and private properties that are not used for business.

the same requirements that have always been required of the cylinder installations and are covered by the requirements in appendix J of AS/NZS 5601.1. New installations do not require prior approval by a WorkSafe Compliance Certifier before the LPG supplier issues a Compliance Plaque.

Between 100kg and 300kg

More than 300kg

If there is between 100kg and 300kg at a non-workplace, the LPG supplier must issue a Compliance Plaque, which is fixed somewhere on the cylinder installation. The plaques are long-lasting metallised labels. The LPG supplier must check the compliance of the cylinder installation with the requirements of the EPA Hazardous Substances (Hazardous Property Controls) Notice 2017. These are

For non-workplaces that have more than 300kg of LPG, a HSNO/WorkSafe Compliance Certifier must issue a Compliance Certificate.

Other guidance

WorkSafe and the EPA have produced new guides for industry and consumers, which explain the changes and also cover issues such as aggregating quantities of LPG at a single site. Go to www.worksafe.govt.nz

and type LPG in the search bar. The LPG Association is updating its codes of practice for twin pack 45kg cylinder installations and multi-cylinder installations. Due to popular demand, the relevant extracts from the Standard will be reinstated to make them a complete one-stop guide. ■ October/November 2018

Passive fire compliance NUTS & BOLTS

Change is needed in the way we manage passive fire in buildings, according to the Insurance Council.

MANY COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS around New Zealand are putting lives and property at risk because they don’t comply with fire safety standards, said John Lucas of the Insurance Council (ICNZ) at an international one-day seminar on passive fire compliance this August.

High-rise and multi-unit risks

With Auckland City plans for several tall buildings over 50 floors high, it is very important to get fire protection right. John became aware of the problem from insurers doing risk surveys, some of which uncovered non-compliant passive fire construction work. This included unprotected penetrations through fire-rated walls and ceilings, missing smoke dampers in heating and ventilation systems, and fire and smoke control doors that didn’t seal properly because they were incorrectly specified. “My discussions with various experts in the fire protection industry and with Building Consent Authority managers confirmed that New Zealand has a potential systemic passive fire non-compliance problem,” says John. “This is worrying as so many people live and work in high rise and multi-unit buildings these days.”

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Passive fire protection is about preventing or slowing the spread of fire and smoke from one tenancy or fire cell to another, giving the occupants of a building time to safely evacuate. Correctly designed, coordinated, installed and signed-off passive fire systems are vital to protecting life, as well as reducing economic loss and providing confidence in the construction industry. “Unfortunately, we have struggled to achieve compliant passive fire protection in many of our new building projects and to then maintain that compliance in existing buildings due to the many refurbishments that occur over the lifecycle of the building,” he says. A 2016 kitchen fire in a newly opened luxury Wellington hotel caused the evacuation of all hotel guests, and the hotel was closed for repairs for at least seven months. The damage was mainly caused by smoke affecting a significant part of the hotel. This sort of thing should not happen, says ICNZ. A smoke control system did not operate as it was required, resulting in needless economic loss and reputational damage to those involved in the hotel’s passive fire protection systems. Keynote speakers included Jim Filer from IAG Melbourne and Gary Strong from the UK Royal Institute of Chartered Building Surveyors. Gary was a consultant to the investigation into the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire. The event was a partnership with Auckland Council and the Association of Building Compliance. ■

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October/November 2018

It has been brought to the attention of Master Plumbers that Auckland City Council are proposing new passive fire compliance requirements for commercial buildings. As NZ Plumber went to print, Master Plumbers was due to meet with Auckland City Council to discuss these proposals. “We are disappointed that the Council did not consult with the plumbing industry before putting these proposals forward,” says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. “Most passive fire protection products for plumbing penetrations in commercial buildings are installed by plumbers, who receive training in fire rated penetrations as part of their plumbing qualifications. “We believe compliance can be achieved through training and education without any additional compliance conditions or unnecessary costs.”

Tech points BUILDING CODE TWICE YEARLY CONSULTATIONS

MBIE says it will now consult twice a year on Building Code Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods to make sure they’re up to date. Previously, consultations were held on an irregular basis, which it says didn’t provide consistency for the industry. There will be two consultation periods each year: February-March and August-September. This August, it consulted on B1/VM1, B2/AS1, E2/VM1, E2/AS1, G12/ VM1, G12/AS1, G12/AS2, G13/AS1, G13/VM2, G13/AS2 and G13/AS3, with a closing date of 21 September.

REVOKING SIMPLE HOUSE ACCEPTABLE SOLUTION MBIE has also proposed revoking the Simple House Acceptable Solution SH/AS1. It says this is now eight years old, infrequently used and no longer fit for purpose.

AMENDMENT TO GAS INSTALLATION STANDARD Amendment 3:2018 has been published for AS/NZS 5601.2:2013 Gas installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes. It applies to Clause 6.10.4 and Section 10 (new).

NUTS & BOLTS

Technical updates in brief.

MERGING FIRE ACCEPTABLE SOLUTIONS MBIE is seeking feedback on its proposal to publish a new edition of Acceptable Solution (C/AS2)—a merger of the six separate Fire Acceptable Solution documents. The consultation runs until 30 November. The proposed C/AS2 amends a number of omissions and inconsistencies. Any changes as a result of the consultation will come into effect with the bi-annual Building Code system update, scheduled for June 2019. View the proposal at www.mbie.govt.nz/infoservices/building-construction/consultations/new-edition-cas2

PUBLIC COMMENT: GAS POOL HEATERS DR AS/NZS 5263.1.12:2018 - Gas appliances, Part 1.12: Gas pool heaters is out for public comment at https://hub.standards.org. au/hub/public/listOpenCommentingPublication.action until 21 November. This standard provides particular requirements for gas pool heaters that apply in addition to or in place of the general requirements for gas appliances set out in AS/NZS 5263.0 Gas appliances - Part 0: General requirements. The combination of AS/NZS 5263.1.12 and AS/NZS 5263.0 supersedes AS 4560—2004. This part, Part 1.12 of AS/NZS 5263, supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses of Part 0. The numbering of clauses in this Part 1.12 is consistent with the numbering in Part 0 for related requirements.

Supplementary heat sources CLAUSE G12 OF the New Zealand Building Code states that a hot water system must be capable of being controlled to prevent the growth of legionella bacteria. A heat disinfection method is generally considered the most effective way of achieving this. Generally, with a storage hot water cylinder (HWC), disinfection is achieved by having the water heated to 60 degrees or higher. However, there are several areas where adequate protection has been omitted or is no longer functioning. In some circumstances, this may be due to an inadequate design; in other circumstances it may be due to a property owner tampering with the system. One example is in a flow and return hot water system such as a ring main. Legionella bacteria may develop in the flow and return system when it is supplied with tempered water from the HWC.

A way to prevent legionella developing is by installing a UV filter in the flow and return hot water system. Another way is to supply the flow and return system with un-tempered water (above 60 degrees) and then temper the water at the outlets that require it. Another example is when a HWC has solar water heating. Generally, in this type of system an electrical element, as well as the solar water heating, is used to heat the water in the HWC. However, what can sometimes happen is that the property owner may turn off the electricity to the HWC and rely solely on the solar water heating. Often the electricity is turned off in an attempt to save money. However, the risk is that the solar system does not heat the water adequately to prevent legionella developing. G12/AS2 3.5 gives multiple methods for protecting water from the growth of legionella bacteria when solar is used as a

The PGDB outlines the risk of legionnaires from supplementary heat sources.

heating source. If the system does rely on an electric element to supplement the solar system heating the water, then it is important that the property owner is made aware of the need for the heat disinfection of the water and advised that the power should remain on. The same principle applies if a wetback is used as the main heating source. A controlled supplementary heating system should be included, such as an electric element. In order to prevent legionella bacteria growing, plumbers should incorporate careful planning at the design stage and communicate with the property owner the requirements of their particular system. ■ Associated resource: www.building.govt.nz/building-codecompliance/ October/November 2018

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Ventilation is vital TWO ADULTS AND their young children were recently taken to hospital with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at their Waikato home. A heat transfer system had been installed in the same room as an inbuilt wood fire, and when the homeowners got home one evening they kept the door to the lounge room shut, believing this would transfer more heat to the bedrooms. A local plumbing firm carried out two inspections of the wood fire. On the second inspection, they removed the fire and stainless-steel flue and offset so they could look at the full installation. Based on this second inspection, they found no obvious cracks or splits to the flue, offset and firebox. Large amounts of creosote build-up were found throughout the air damper system and front fire grill, suggesting smoke had been drawn through them. The door seals were completely perished, enabling smoke to escape into the room. After talking with the owner and discovering that the heat transfer system fan had been upgraded to a more powerful model, the firm concluded that the probable cause of the incident was the heat transfer system not having enough air supply. With the door shut and the heat transfer fan on the high setting, the air was being drawn down the fire flue and into the room via the fire’s air inlet tube and the leaking fire door seals. They were unable to complete an air velocity test, as the heat transfer system had been disconnected and removed.

if a heat transfer system is installed, a velocity test should be carried out

However, they recommended a thorough investigation of the system once it had been reconnected to determine the air velocity and what size vent should be fitted—possibly a door grill for when the room door was shut. Based on what has happened, if a heat transfer system of any type is installed, a velocity test should be carried out to ensure there is adequate ventilation

NUTS & BOLTS

A recent incident of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning highlights the need for proper ventilation in people’s homes.

getting into the area and from where. The homeowners’ fire would need to have all the seals replaced before being able to reuse it, and a smoke detector needed to be installed in the room with the fire as a minimum. The firm also recommended smoke detectors be installed in each bedroom supplied via the heat transfer system. WorkSafe is investigating the incident. ■

CO poisoning fatality A lack of ventilation contributed to an Australian woman’s 2017 death from carbon monoxide poisoning, a coroner has found. This August, ABC News reported that 62-year-old Sonia Sofianopoulos died in her Melbourne home as a result of carbon monoxide leaking from her Vulcan Heritage heater while at least one exhaust fan was on. Open-flue gas heaters should only be used in well-ventilated spaces, but the unit where she lived had been retrofitted with weather seals on doors and windows, so the carbon monoxide couldn’t dissipate.

According to the report, plumbing contractors employed by the Department of Health and Human Services had carried out non-compliant carbon monoxide testing in the unit two years before her death. The Department was also only carrying out heater servicing every five years on its 70,000 residences instead of every two, as recommended by Energy Safe Victoria. The coroner recommended a national ban on the sale of new open-flue heaters and mandatory current carbon monoxide training for all gasfitters as part of their practising licence.

October/November 2018

REAL LIVES

Winning streak With three top awards under their belt from the recent 2018 LaserCon Awards—including business of the year—Laser Plumbing Cambridge shares some of their secrets of success. By Je t’aime Hayr. 1. Build relationships Marketing is one of the most important things you can do for your business, says Daniel Jones, company Director of Laser Plumbing Cambridge. It should be an ongoing process, not something you do when work is slow or the economy sluggish. “No matter how busy you are, you should always be building your brand to be top of mind with your customers. We put a lot of effort into marketing and use social media marketing to keep in touch with the community.

social media posts must be useful, relevant and regular

“Facebook posts let people know what we are up to as well as share useful information. We post everything from bathroom trends to sneak peeks at completed projects. It’s about building relationships with people in the community so they feel like they know us before they pick up the phone. We got proof of this when we shared a post about Jade, one of our gasfitters. You’d be amazed how many people ask us if Jade is coming to do the work after that post.” Dan says social media posts must be useful, relevant and regular. “Social media is a good way to address community issues. When water meters were coming to Cambridge, we did a Facebook post on how to check water meters. Our philosophy is to help people solve the small problems, so they call us when they have an issue they can’t fix themselves. Whatever you decide to post about, make sure you do it often. You can’t post once every five months and expect to get traction.” Having a concrete marketing plan will help you stay on top of your goals and measure what is and—just as importantly—what isn’t working. As Dan explains, “We review our marketing plan each quarter and if our current strategy isn’t helping to grow our business, we tweak it, put something new in place for the next three months and then re-evaluate.”

Above: Company Director Daniel Jones and Office Manager Catherine Hanks accepting the Excellence in Software & Systems award. 38

October/November 2018

2. Don’t fear change From the field to the office, technology has forever changed the way people work—and that’s something Dan believes businesses should embrace. “In this day and age, technology is essential; it helps your business run better and saves people a lot of time on annoying admin tasks that nobody wants to do.” Laser Plumbing Cambridge uses simPRO cloud-based field service and job management software. “Our team can log in via the iPad app to get all the job information on the go, in real time: order number, client contact details, photos of the job including previous work done—it’s really comprehensive. On a new build, for a plumber to go back and see all the photos of the piping runs makes the job easier and more thorough. It’s the complete package: invoicing, quoting, materials, stock control, and it runs in the office as well. The efficiency is unbeatable.”

in this day and age, technology is essential Would they ever go back to the old way of working? “Never. Paper job cards got lost, torn or came back looking like 80-yearold maps. With simPRO everything is done in real time, online and it’s secure.”

3. Never stop learning What makes Laser Plumbing Cambridge a top business? “Put simply, we go the extra mile for our customers. We instil in our team that there is always a way to fix a customer’s problem,” says Dan. And that problem-solving mentality extends to the way they approach things internally. “At our weekly team meeting, people have the opportunity to raise any work issues and we discuss how to solve it. The second half of the meeting is focused on ongoing training. It works well because everybody is upskilling and has the chance to share their knowledge with others.” That drive to learn and grow is one of the reasons Dan enjoys being part of the Laser franchise. “Lasercon is an awesome opportunity to see how others are doing things and learn from them, particularly when it comes to new technology. If two heads are better than one, then 500 heads are even better still!” Dan says that being a member of Master Plumbers brings benefits for the business too. “It’s about having a voice. As advocates for the industry, they really help to advertise and drive awareness of what we do. They also offer a number of business benefits, such as helping out with apprentices and their on-thejob training.” ■

there is always a way to fix a customer’s problem

INDUSTRY TALK

Christchurch HWC failures Christchurch plumbers have been kept busy with an increase in failing hot water cylinders.

Many Christchurch residents are Master Plumbers contacted a number blaming chlorine in the water as of hot water cylinder manufacturers, the reason for the recent increase in who have confirmed a significant failing copper pipework and cylinders. increase in demand for new cylinders Christchurch City Council decided in the Christchurch area—similar to in January to chlorinate the city’s that seen in Hawke’s Bay following water for up to 12 months while well chlorination of the water supplies in head remediation was carried out and response to the Havelock North water chlorine was introduced to the water contamination incident. supply on 26 March. CEO Greg Wallace says he welcomes Other disinfection options to replace the Council’s decision to investigate chlorination are also being investigated water quality in the region following its and design is underway for an option two meetings with hot water cylinder to install UV treatment at the Council’s Above: Is chlorination of the water supplies to blame? representatives. At these meetings, largest pump station in Beckenham. the Council was provided with sales data showing a dramatic The Council says it is flushing pipes to remove the natural increase in low pressure copper water heater sales over the past organic matter that causes the chlorine smell and taste and is few months. Cylinder failures are also being tracked on a map reducing the dose level where approval has been given. “We are to ascertain whether or not a pattern is emerging. As of early also favouring the use of our non-chlorinated pump stations so September, the majority of water heater failures have been older there is a greater quantity of untreated water in the network,” a models past their warranty period. spokesperson said in June.

Rockgas sale

Contact Energy is selling Rockgas to Gas Services NZ Micdo (GSNZ). The August edition of Gasline reported that Rockgas has a market share of approximately 41%—making it New Zealand’s largest LPG retailer—serving 88,000 customers from six branches, three satellite branches and 27 franchises. Contact will continue to sell LPG to its mass market customers and will provide back office services to GSNZ.

GSNZ will source LPG and pick up, refill and deliver to the mass market. It will also directly manage bulk LPG customers, and supply branches and franchises. The $260 million sale was expected to take four to six months to complete. Around 120 people currently employed by Contact will transfer to Rockgas.

Future for polytechs

Domestic student numbers at New Zealand’s 16 polytechnics have declined by a third over the past decade. With dropping numbers, some polytechs are facing a threat to their viability. In July, Unitec’s Council was dissolved and a commissioner appointed to address the polytech’s financial difficulties—a shortfall of $19 million this year and $27 million in 2019 if no changes are made. This follows the Government’s $8.5 million cash injection for Tai Poutini in February to keep the polytech running. This April, the Government tasked The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) with carrying out a six-month ITP Roadmap 2020 project—putting everything on the table for discussion and potential change. “It is critical we address these challenges across the whole network, rather than just one organisation at a time,” said Education Minister Chris Hipkins. 40

October/November 2018

The project has included workshops around New Zealand and a survey of staff, students and their employers, along with considering overseas models. Increased funding is not enough on its own, despite the fact this has been reduced in real terms over the last nine years, according to the Minister. He believes there’s value in looking at how the network of polytechs can operate more as a system. “It’s about making sure the sector is agile and able to respond to the changing patterns of demand and the changing needs of learners.” Possible options for change will be presented to Cabinet in December.

INDUSTRY TALK

Snapper legend Apprentice plumber and gasfitter Matt Wilson has done the trade proud—out on the water.

APPRENTICE PLUMBER AND gasfitter Matt Wilson recently took part in the Hirepool BaitMates Hunt for a Snapper Legend web series. This was a six-week fishing challenge which saw three tradies battle it out to win the title of BaitMates Snapper Legend. Matt was up against Michelle the Landscaper and Steve the Digger Operator. The trio’s skills were put to the test on boot camp at a Hirepool branch. They had to make a stray line rig with icy hands, make their own burley with some power tools and cast into a wheelbarrow. These unusual tasks set them up for the real competition out on the water at Great Barrier Island for two days. The two-day on-the-water challenge included not only catching snapper but caring for them and cooking them too. After day one Matt took the lead—he landed the biggest snapper of the day in the ‘What a Whopper’ challenge, with a 63cm beauty. He also demonstrated he knows how to handle them with care, taking out the ‘Fishcare’ challenge. To make sure he stayed in the lead, Matt even snuck out while everyone was asleep to land some piper for bait the next day. On day two Matt fished through the rain to see if he could land a bigger snapper and beat his record but lost a few points in the cooking challenge. It was lady-tradie Michelle who proved she could cook a perfect fish feed, which narrowed the points on the leaderboard and put Matt under pressure. The race was on for Matt to land the biggest snapper he could find but he was watching Michelle over his shoulder—all she needed was a snapper longer than his 63cm whopper. There were some tense moments. Michelle thought she’d landed a monster but it got away! Matt took a deep breath of relief. His efforts across the competition earned him the most points on the leaderboard and the title of BaitMates Snapper Legend.

Above: The Final Fish Off—from left, Fishing & Adventure’s Scott Parry and Michael ‘Mig’ Rumney vs Team Snapper Legend’s Matt Wilson and Mandy Kupenga.

Above: Matt Wilson with his 63cm snapper. When on dry land, Matt works for Master Plumbers member company Sean’s Plumbing & Gas on Waikehe Island.

Matt’s challenge wasn’t quite over. To prove he could fish with the big boys, Matt teamed up with Mandy to take on the Fishing and Adventure boys, Scott and Mig. The challenge was, of course, to see which team could land the greatest combined length of each person’s biggest snapper. There were all kinds of shenanigans on board. Mandy made a concerted effort to try and distract Scott and Mig to get the upper hand. This strategy worked well for Matt and Mandy who were winning the comp until last-minute-Mig pulled out a beauty that took out the competition. In true Fishing and Adventure style, there was a consequence for the losers and Matt and Mandy had to eat some things that shouldn’t be eaten! Above: Great Barrier Island—the battlegrounds of the Hirepool BaitMates Hunt for a Snapper Legend.

Check out the full Hunt for Snapper Legend web series at www.baitmates.co.nz October/November 2018 41

INDUSTRY TALK

Our 70th birthday prize winner NZ Plumber 70th anniversary competition winner Michael Pooley reports back on his prize Air NZ Deluxe Mystery Break. In the February-March 2018 edition of NZ Plumber, to celebrate 70 years for the magazine, we ran a prize draw to spot the number of mini wrenches dotted throughout the pages. The correct number was nine and the lucky draw winner was plumber Michael Pooley of Pooley Plumbing Ltd in Wellington. He and partner Maisarah enjoyed a 3-night Deluxe Air NZ Mystery Break, complete with return air travel, rental car and deluxe 4-5 star accommodation. “We took the Mystery Break on 27-30 July,” says Michael. “Basically, we chose these dates because it was close to my birthday and outside school holiday times. We found out approximately a day before that we were going to Dunedin. “Dunedin turned out to be a great destination. After flying down we picked up the Avis rental car, which had been upgraded to a brand-new Toyota Rav 4, and drove to the city, about half an hour away. “We were booked in at the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross near the Octagon, which also hosts the Dunedin Casino, so went up to have a few spins at roulette and the machines. “We were able to surprise Maisarah’s daughter Shadrina, who is studying first-year health sciences at Otago University. We dropped in at her room unannounced. There were a few seconds of bewilderment, accompanied with the words: ‘What are you doing here?’ “We took Shadrina and her friends out to do an escape room in town. They insisted on Above: Inside ‘The Void’ infinity room going to Rob Roy Dairy in Otago Museum’s science centre.

Above: Upgraded to a brand-new Toyota Rav 4 Avis rental!

on George Street, just down from the Octagon, which to our surprise was full to capacity with families and students lining up for ice creams and tubs of cold cookie dough at 8:30pm on a cool winter’s night—but apparently that’s normal in Dunedin. Everybody knows Rob Roy Dairy. “We also went to the old railway station, Port Chalmers and St Clair Beach for lunch—very nice. Went up to Signal Hill Lookout for great views of the city. Watched Mamma Mia at the movie theatre. We visited the Otago Museum, where they had a good science display and tropical butterfly garden, which was amazing seeing all the colourful butterflies flying around. “Thank you to NZ Plumber for a great prize. We really enjoyed it.”

Fundraising fun

Caroma’s CARC event is all about camaraderie, charity and competition. Caroma’s annual CARC (Caroma Accredited Research Customers) event was held in Sydney in April, with members competing in a Fantastic Race around iconic Sydney landmarks, and a kick the footy challenge with Wallaby legend Mark Ella, to raise money for their 2018 chosen charity—Surf Life Saving NZ. This year members gave it their all to raise $30,000 for Surf Life Saving NZ. Representatives of CARC presented Adam Wooler (Chief Operations Manager) and Rajal Middleton (Commercial Manager) with a cheque at Caroma’s Head Office in August.

Above: Caroma and CARC team members with the $30,000 cheque for Surf Life Saving NZ. October/November 2018 43

INDUSTRY TALK

KiwiPure charged

Kiwipure Ltd has pleaded not guilty to eight charges laid by the Commerce Commission over water filter claims. The Commerce Commission alleged that Kiwipure made unsubstantiated claims about the benefits and ability of its water filters to soften water. Kiwipure distributes household water filtration systems that use magnets, among other things. Charges were filed in Auckland District Court under the Fair Trading Act. By law, a business must have reasonable grounds for making a claim at the time it is made. The charges relate to claims Kiwipure made between 10 February 2015 and 31 May 2018 on its website, and also in promotional materials and to customers.

The Commission charges allege that Kiwipure made unsubstantiated claims about: • The ability of its water filter systems to soften water • The benefits that consumers could expect of soft water after using the water filters, such as ‘no scum build up’, ‘use less washing powder’ and ‘no scale build-up in hot water systems and pipes saves electricity and maintenance’ • The water filters’ ability to reduce skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis. The matter is before the Court.

Misleading representations

Brilliance International Ltd has been fined $54,000 for misleading representations relating to its steel mesh products. Brilliance was sentenced in Auckland in August on 20 charges brought by the Commerce Commission under the Fair Trading Act. The company pleaded guilty to making false and misleading representations for its 147E steel mesh product, which it marketed and sold as being earthquake grade 500E steel mesh between September 2012 and June 2016. The offending involved 11 charges of making representations liable to mislead the public on its website and on product tags that its 147E steel mesh complied with the AS/NZ Standard for reinforcing steel suitable for structural use in an earthquake zone when it did not. The other nine charges relate to false and misleading representations on its website that the product had been tested

by independent testing laboratory SGS New Zealand, when it had not. The charges relate to approximately 35 batches of 147E steel mesh, or 56,125 sheets. The defendant’s conduct plainly undermined the New Zealand Building Code and objectives of Standards in general, said the judge. In February 2016, the Commerce Commission issued a Stop Now Letter requesting that Brilliance stop representing its 147E as 500E grade steel mesh complying with the Standard. Brilliance complied with that request. The Stop Now was lifted in May 2016 after Brilliance agreed to court-enforceable undertakings, requiring specific independent testing for each batch of steel.

The Ultimate Reno

Look out for Master Plumbers member company Auckland Plumbers Group in the brand-new TV3 series, The Ultimate Reno. Former Block NZ stars Alice and Caleb Pearson are the stars of new TV3 series The Ultimate Reno. The show follows the duo as they do up a run-down 1960s house in Auckland’s Glendowie suburb, giving viewers a true-life take on the highs and lows of a renovation project from the planning and consent stage to completion. Auckland Plumbers Group are among the trades firms featured, along with builders, painters, plasterers, electricians, tilers and more. “We got involved because our company is very focused on apprentice training and it was a great chance to promote the huge career opportunities for young people in plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying,” says company director Andrew Durrans. 44

October/November 2018

Two of the firm’s apprentices worked on the project under the supervision of two Certifying tradespeople, and with Operations Director John Hurcombe overseeing the whole plumbing aspect of the reno. Andrew says the guys enjoyed the experience, despite the pressures of completing jobs to tight filming timeframes and sometimes having to wait patiently to access certain parts of the house while shooting was underway. “There were plenty of challenges along the way and the different trades had to put their brains together to come up with solutions,” says Andrew. “I won’t tell you what they were—you’ll see it all unfold as you watch the show!” Tune into TV3 on Saturdays at 5pm to watch The Ultimate Reno.

INDUSTRY TALK

Sam’s speak

When you don’t feel safe, speak up, says Sam Tyson.

WE WERE SCHEDULED to install a wood unconvinced that the plan was safe. fire. The roof was over 15 degrees and there Our project manager was trying to was an existing chimney on the side of the convince him all would be good, just do it house that was a couple of metres above the as planned. The young plumber was getting roof line. The dilemma was how to feed the more and more agitated, finally saying, “You flue down the high chimney for the new are not listening to me—I don’t feel safe!” insert wood fire. Overhearing what was being said and not In planning for the job, one of our older expecting anyone to carry out work where guys, who has been in the game a long time, they don’t feel safe, I got involved with the told our younger guy how he had planned conversation. Together with a few other for the young plumber to do it. Build a guys, we brainstormed why this approach platform by putting a pallet on its side might not be safe and how else it could be against the chimney and lay planks across done. They came up with a plan, went to from the pallet to the roof, screwing them site with our mobile scaffolding and edge into a four by two that would rest on the protection, and after a couple of goes came roof. Then attach an anchor to the ridge line Above: Scaffolding, edge protection and up with a secure working platform with edge feeling safe. for the harness. protection. Our young plumber felt safe and The young plumber was clearly not convinced. He did not the next day completed the job successfully. believe it would be safe. He was scheduled to do the job in Faced with peer pressure and not wanting to seem soft, it can two days’ time when the older guy was on annual leave. The sometimes be difficult to say, “I don’t feel safe”. Good on our next day the young plumber was sitting at the lunch table still young plumber for sticking to his guns!

INDUSTRY TALK

Vision for water Engineers are calling for fresh thinking about New Zealand’s water challenges in a new report. ENGINEERING A BETTER New Zealand sets out an engineering vision for New Zealand—and the steps needed to get there. The report, which looks at seismic resilience and water management, was launched in Parliament in August and is the first in a series of thought leadership reports from Engineering New Zealand (formerly IPENZ). “In terms of water, we support the Government’s move to fix our ‘broken drinking-water system’, and we ask the community to place a greater value on safe water,” says President Dean Kimpton.

Water management

New Zealanders are placing increasing demands on water and water-related infrastructure, according to the report. “Our population has grown, along with water use and discharge. We face changing and heavier rainfall because of climate change.” The Havelock North drinking-water contamination in 2016 and the Edgecumbe flood in 2017 highlighted critical weaknesses in water infrastructure and the way we think about natural water systems, it notes. The Government is reviewing the management of three waters: drinking water, stormwater and wastewater. “But much of the infrastructure inside these systems is due (or overdue) for significant renewal or replacement.” A 2015 Treasury estimate for renewing the three-waters network over the next 15 years was $30 billion to $50 billion, according to the report.

•

Drinking water issues

Key themes from the report: • Our water can make us sick – According to the Havelock North Drinking Water Inquiry, up to 100,000 people are getting sick every year in NZ because of their drinking water. • We take safe, clean water for granted – With almost ‘free’ tap water (outside metered areas) being taken for granted, people don’t see the need to advocate for investment in drinking water treatment to safeguard health. • Our regulation has been lax – Too often compliance with standards is unacceptably low. Even when standards are breached, action isn’t always taken. For those working

the infrastructure inside these systems is due (or overdue) for significant renewal or replacement

•

in the field, there are no statutory requirements for licensing, certification or competency to practice. Treatment is a start – The short-term response to the Havelock North contamination has been to recommend adding residual disinfectant like chlorine to all reticulated supplies. But just treating water is not enough. New Zealand needs a system with multiple barriers. For example, contaminants must be prevented from entering drinking water at source. Help the community to value water – If people value clean, healthy water, they are more likely to protect it and be willing to pay a fair price for it. Increased public understanding makes a shared vision possible. Creating the right incentives – Engineering New Zealand recommends incentivising people to conserve water—for example, by introducing a fair charging system, with smart meters at point of use.

Flooding issues

Key themes from the report: • More flooding, more often – the combination of increasing urbanisation, intensification of land use and climate change has increased the likelihood of floods. Flood defences that were adequate in the past could fail today. • Changing how we think about flooding – New Zealanders need to better understand the risks in their environment, so they can make informed decisions about the level of protection for their homes and community. NZ must move away from total reliance on structures and infrastructure for protection. This includes minimising or eliminating development in vulnerable areas, greater use of overland flow and flood ponding and redefining land available for development. Read the report in full at www.engineeringnz.org

October/November 2018

INDUSTRY TALK

In the office

Life can be cut short, so make sure it’s not all about work, says Andrea Lovell. Yesterday I said my final goodbyes to one of my dearest friends, who passed away on Saturday after her fight with cancer. She was too young and left behind a young family and lots of friends that loved her. Over the last six months, I have started to reassess what and who is important in my life, making sure that, for me, my children and family come first—then my work. It is all very well to spend hours working and making lots of money, but does money make you happy?? Does money keep you warm at night?? Does money make you laugh?? As the saying goes: all work and no play.... Life can be cut short at any time, so don’t live with regrets and what ifs. Make sure you have a good work/life balance. If you don’t think it’s possible because you don’t have the right people in the right positions within your business, make the changes now. Start working on those succession plans and ways you can give yourself a better balance. Set goals—take your annual

leave and spend it with the people you love, doing things you all enjoy. As business owners, we have only once had to decline an annual leave request and have never said no to annual leave requests when staff want to spend time with their kids to watch them play sport, attend their first day of school, last day of kindy, or any other important events. Staff also need to have a good balance in life and you will find they’re more productive if they aren’t stressed, worrying if their boss will allow them to start late so they can take their kids to school or have a last-minute day off because their daughter made the school speech finals. Our staff work extremely hard for us and this is a way we can show them we appreciate them. It is really important we all assess our lives from time to time to ensure we are heading in the direction and, if not, readjust our compasses. Life can be cut short—don’t live with regrets!

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October/November 2018 47

Purchase any Rinnai product between 1 October 2018 and 31 July 2019 for your chance to crouch, bind and set off on an 11 day adventure in Japan. The action kicks off with a chartered sightseeing tour around Tokyo, a sushi workshop, samurai museum visit, then temple tours, Mt Fuji excursion, Bullet Train trip, Toyota museum tour, Rinnai factory tour and Kyoto by bike. Oh, and there are tickets to the semi-final and final of a certain rugby tournament. Get the ball rolling by entering with the specially marked stickers on all our range at Rinnai retailers nationwide. The more Rinnai products you purchase, the more chances you have to win. www.rinnai.co.nz/japantour

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INNOVATION

Seeing is believing A high-impact visual experience at Sydney’s Caroma on Collins helps customers picture their perfect bathroom. FOR ITS NEW flagship Sydney store, Caroma commissioned 10 leading designers to come up with a unique bathroom interior. The results are as striking as they are varied. Customers can step inside the separate capsules to see for themselves how products can be combined to create an entire bathroom in any number of styles and décors. Caroma on Collins is vast. The 2,500sq m former industrial building has been transformed into a light, high-ceilinged twostorey space, enlivened by plantings of native Australian greenery. Downstairs, timber signage directs visitors to four bathroom and kitchen product collections, each bearing the name of waterretaining trees: Coolibah, Olida, Piperita and Caesia. The aim was to create a natural interior, using materials such as brick and stone, to reflect Caroma’s Earth friendly ethos. The store has been passively designed with evaporative cooling to minimise power use, and all working bathroom displays are fed by a 40,000 litre catchment of recycled rainwater. In New Zealand, the average person uses 227 litres of water a day, the majority of it for toilet flushing, bathing and hygiene. In Australia, it’s a whopping 340 litres per person—the highest in the world. These stats show a clear need for behavioural change, says Caroma General Manager James Ewart. >

Above top: The exterior of Caroma on Collins, in Alexandria, Sydney. Above: Rainwater tanks feed the working bathroom displays. October/November 2018 49

INNOVATION

“It is our company’s mission to protect and conserve water. Caroma developed the world’s first two-button Dualflush toilet and many of our products use up to 40 percent less water. Our ultra-low flush Smartflush systems use only 4.5 litres for a full flush and 3 litres for reduced flush mode. As climate change brings worsening droughts, people are become increasingly aware of the value of water.”

Making life better for consumers

Above: Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace tries out the 3D virtual bathroom planner. Below: One of the 10 designer bathroom capsules.

October/November 2018

By carrying out consumer research, Caroma recognised that homeowners can feel apprehensive about making product choices for the bathroom, kitchen or laundry. Considering that the average consumer renovates their bathroom once every 12 years, it’s important that they feel confident about their decisions. For first-home buyers and novice renovators needing a helping hand, Caroma has introduced three collections under its value Clark brand. Fun and friendly displays in the upstairs level provide plenty of inspiration with a young family feel. The store also includes care product displays for the elderly and disabled, with specially designed tapware and toilets available to view in the downstairs space.

INNOVATION

Above: Designer Peter Sweatman’s bathroom capsule features aged care products from Caroma’s Piperita collection.

Above: The café space.

Purchasing decisions are made even easier with advisors on hand to sit and discuss customer requirements in the seated café space towards the rear of the store. Shoppers can also collect business-card sized product information by the 260-plus products on display, then scan the bar code to view a full spec sheet on an in-store monitor. All the while, kids can be kept entertained in the play area with its large metal water trough filled with paper sailing boats. A virtual 3D view is also available to customers wanting to try out different layout scenarios. By donning a pair of goggles and moving dolls’ house size baths, basins, toilets and vanities around on a surface, they can see on-screen how their new bathroom might look, complete with walls, doors and windows—adjusting product choices and room size at the swipe of a finger. Caroma on Collins opened its doors this May, after opening a 650sq m store in Adelaide last October. Another is on the way for Western Australia. ■ New Zealand installers are very welcome to book a tour of Caroma on Collins. Please email sydney@gwagroup.com.au

Smart technology

Above: The use of natural stone, timber and Australian native plants reflect Caroma’s environmental focus.

A dedicated space at Caroma on Collins shows how Caroma’s new Smart Demand technology is being used to promote water conservation in commercial applications, such as airports, stadiums and conference centres. Pre-installed electronic sensors detect usage of appliances and send information by WiFi to a remote computer management system. A useful way of detecting leaks or other maintenance requirements in public bathrooms, Smart Demand can also be used to reduce flush water volumes—particularly in urinals where a constant water flow has traditionally been used. Urine sensing technology activates the flush, and this can be automatically adjusted during peak times or in high traffic areas. For more information on Smart Command, please email pwoodhams@gwagroup.co.nz

October/November 2018 51

SMART BUSINESS

Surviving an IR audit CONSTRUCTION IS A hotbed of activity in what’s dubbed the ‘hidden economy’. Unfortunately, there has been a high level of non-compliance by smaller operators in the sector not declaring part or (in some cases) all the cash payments they receive. That’s why the IR is interested in tradespeople’s affairs. Behind the scenes, they’re running detailed analytics over large volumes of third-party data to find cases to investigate. As cash is likely to be spent at some point, they’re comparing taxpayers’ spending habits (think living expenses, mortgage repayments and other purchases) with their income tax returns to identify any outliers. If tradespeople can’t explain where the money to pay for those things came from, IR’s suspicions may be aroused. Being caught has serious repercussions. Any additional tax obligations that arise from undeclared income carries IR interest (currently 8.22%) and shortfall penalties. The latter range from anywhere between 20% to 150% of the tax shortfall, depending on the seriousness of the breach. Criminal prosecution may also follow. If you’re keeping good records and have a good compliance history, you should have nothing to fear if the IR comes a-knockin’. Any dealings with them should be quick and painless. However, below are a few pointers to help you out if you find yourself on their radar.

Know your rights

IR investigators are entitled to visit your business without warning. Should they show up, ask to see their identification and grab their business card. Refrain from answering any questions. Take their contact details and arrange a time to meet with them along with your accountant. Don’t let them take original documents with them, as these can get lost or 52

October/November 2018

misplaced. Insist they make copies if they require any information.

Don’t go it alone

IR audits are a specialist area and tax law complex, so engage the services of someone who has expertise in both. Sure, they’ll charge fees, but it’ll be worth every cent given the considerable time, stress and money it’ll save you.

Respond to IR swiftly

Deliver any information the IR wants by the deadlines it imposes. If you require more time, let them know as soon as possible and negotiate a new date to supply what they’re after. Don’t leave things until the last minute. Giving IR what it wants promptly shows you take your tax compliance seriously.

Fess up

Consider making a voluntary disclosure if you’ve been dodging your tax obligations. There are several advantages in doing so. Firstly, it can reduce any shortfall penalty incurred. If you make a voluntary disclosure before IR starts its investigation, the shortfall penalty may be reduced by 75% or even 100% in some

With the IR closely monitoring tradespeople, Lee Stace of Tax Management NZ has some audit survival tips.

cases. Any penalty may be reduced by 40% if you disclose any incorrect tax information during the investigation. The second advantage is you can reduce the likelihood of criminal prosecution.

Use tax pooling

If you receive a notice of reassessment from the taxman due to an audit or voluntary disclosure, an IR-approved tax pooling provider can reduce the interest cost by up to 30% on any additional tax payable. Savings are considerable. The provider can apply surplus tax paid to IR on the date it was originally due against your liability when you pay through them. As such, IR treats this as if you paid on time, eliminating any interest and late payment penalties. You also get an extra 60 days from the date the notice of reassessment was issued to pay. ■

About the author: Lee Stace is the PR and content manager of Tax Management NZ, the largest tax pooling provider in New Zealand.

SMART BUSINESS

From the IR: payday filing FROM 1 APRIL 2019, all employers will have to file their employment information every payday. Inland Revenue customer segment lead Richard Owen says the easiest way to comply is through payroll software. “The first step is for all employers to start asking their software providers when they expect to be ready so planning can begin. “This is the sort of task where it pays to

this is the sort of task where it pays to be ready early

be ready early rather than scrambling at the last minute. “Inland Revenue’s systems for receiving payday information are up and running, so companies who want to can start filing straight away. If they’re using software they need to make sure it’s compatible first.” More than 400 employers are already payday filing but there are many thousands more that will need to join them before 1 April. Payday filing will replace the employer monthly schedule (EMS), which currently needs to be filed either in myIR or through the post. Those with compatible software will be able to securely submit their information directly to Inland Revenue instead of

Biz Brief Choose your business structure A new tool from business.govt helps business start-ups understand the different ways to structure a business. Most NZ businesses are sole traders, companies or partnerships—and each comes with different legal and financial obligations. Three quick questions will help you decide which business structure to choose. Find it at www.business.govt.nz/choosebusiness-structure/

Protecting your website Check out the CERT NZ website for some great tips on protecting your website and keeping the data it holds safe. These include: • Secure it - Use HTTPS, not HTTP, on your website and all its pages • Back it – Do regular backups of your site’s content and databases • Auto it – Set everything you can to update automatically, like software 54

October/November 2018

The time is now for employers to get ready to shift to payday filing, says the IR. having to do a separate file upload in myIR. Employers who deduct $50,000 or less in PAYE and Employer Superannuation Contribution Tax (ESCT) will be able to file on paper, though only from April 2019. All other employers will need to file electronically. Richard Owen says payday filing will have a transformative effect both on businesses and their staff. “Businesses will be able to integrate their tax obligations into their regular payroll cycles, while the more timely information will allow Inland Revenue to provide certainty around an employee’s social entitlements such as Working for Families Tax Credits.” Find out more at www.ird.govt.nz/payday

Business updates in brief.

updates and domain renewals, so they don’t fall off your to-do list • Check it – check your site regularly to make sure nothing looks odd or out of place Find out more at www.cert.govt.nz/ businesses-and-individuals/guides/cybersecurity-your-business/protect-it

Hiring migrants The NZ Immigration website has useful advice on the immigration process when hiring migrants. The recruitment process and securing a visa will take time, it says. To make the process easier, there are a few important things you need to know: • Before hiring a migrant, some visas may require you to complete a Labour Market Test to ensure there aren’t New Zealanders who could do the job • NZ Immigration has an online SkillFinder tool to connect you with migrant candidates

•

For most visa applications, a migrant will need a written job offer, and to meet health and character requirements • A migrant can’t start working till their visa is approved. Watch the ‘Immigration basics for employers’ video at www.immigration.govt. nz/employ-migrants/immigration-basicsfor-employers/

Changes to PPSR website A new Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) and website launched on 1 October at https://ppsr.companiesoffice. govt.nz. The PPSR is the register where details of security interests in personal property can be registered and searched. Registering your security interest may give you a better chance of recovering your debt If the debtor defaults. You can read about the key changes to PPSR at www.ppsr.govt.nz/cms/customer-support/ key-changes-to-the-new-ppsr-website/

SMART BUSINESS

Business resources The Master Plumbers HR team has been busy adding to the business resources available to members, as Lisa Duston explains. WE HOPE OUR new HR documents offer some useful support and advice for your business. If you have any suggestions for what other HR resources you’d like to see, please let me know!

HR Guides

We have developed four HR Guides specifically for our sector, giving members advice on: • Recruitment and Selection • Employment Agreements and Policies • Performance Management • Disciplinary Process. Please note, these are guides only. We highly recommend you seek HR advice before tackling any serious employment matters (see box below for details of our HR Helpline service).

Executive Individual Employment Agreement An employment agreement for executive employees has been added to our existing employment agreement templates. It includes provisions for post-employment restrictions, bonuses, vehicles etc.

Harassment and Bullying Policy It is important for all businesses to put in place and implement systems to prevent your people being affected by harassment or bullying.

Minimum hours information sheet For a job like plumbing, which can be dependent on weather conditions, writing conditions around hours and guaranteed paid hours in an employment agreement can be confusing. This sheet will help ensure you have all bases covered.

Pre-employment application form Getting potential employees to complete a pre-employment application is an important part of the recruitment process, as it provides employers with clear and relevant information about candidates.

Residential building contracts Changes to the Building Act in 2015 saw new mandatory requirements for

residential building contracts. The contract does not have to be with a householder; it could be with a commercial entity, such as a developer or an insurer. What matters is if it applies to residential work. The Act’s minimum requirements apply to any contract for work that will cost $30,000 or more, including GST (approx $26,000 plus GST). This is calculated as the total price of the contract, so any variation that puts the contract over this figure makes a contract mandatory. A residential building contract template for work over $30,000 is available on the Master Plumbers website. We have now gone one step further and developed a contract for jobs under $30,000. This acts like a Terms of Trade, ensuring all terms and conditions are documented and signed off on before the work starts. ■ Find all these documents in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz (under Business Resources). About the author: Lisa Duston is HR Manager at Master Plumbers. Lisa offers HR advice to Master Plumbers’ members at competitive rates (first 30 minutes free). Contact Lisa on 021 245 1704 or email lduston@masterplumbers.org.nz

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October/November 2018 55

Embracing technology FROM TIME TO time we reflect on positive changes we’d like to make in our lives. If you’re a small business owner you’ve probably spent a bit of time thinking about measures that will help you work smarter, not harder. One of the best ways to work smarter is to embrace technology—and today’s business owners are fortunate to have more high-tech tools at their fingertips than ever before. No matter what line of work you’re in, there’s an ever-expanding list of apps, software and hardware solutions available with the potential to save you time, money and stress. Sharpen your focus However, with the rapid development of so many tools, it can be a challenge for time-poor small business owners to stay up to date. And if new tech solutions aren’t used properly they can, conversely, end up costing small business owners time, money and stress. A security breach of customer data from a poorly implemented CRM solution, for example, could be fatal to a small business. One way to mitigate this risk is to narrow your focus, and pinpoint where new technology solutions could make the biggest impact. Asking yourself what are the biggest opportunities for

October/November 2018

Technology can save your business, as BNZ’s Kevin Andersen explains.

growing your business—or the biggest roadblocks—will help steer you in the right direction. Mobile ready Undoubtedly one of the biggest business opportunities right now is the mobile revolution. Customers are using their smartphones and tablets to research, buy and rate products and services, so it’s essential business owners have a mobilefriendly proposition. Business owners also need to be harnessing the powers of mobile to make their own lives easier—whether that’s keeping on top of cashflow on the go using a mobile banking app, or taking payments on the spot with mobile payment technology like PayClip. Finding the right solution One of the most common barriers to growth for small business owners is the challenge of wearing many hats, from bookkeeper to social media strategist. Alleviating the pressure in just one or two areas can be a game changer. Once you’ve pinpointed an area of your business you’d like to streamline using technology, how do you find the solution that will best work for you? If you’re already using an online

accounting system, check out other apps that connect to it (Xero, for example, has more than 600 apps covering a broad range of business functions in its ecosystem). You can also follow industry leaders on social media, stay up to date with tech news in your sector, and connect with other small business owners to learn what solutions others are successfully using. Many small business tech solutions are either free, or have a small monthly subscription charge, and most will offer a free trial. No matter what the cost, it’s important you honestly evaluate how much a new solution is saving you—and don’t be afraid to ditch solutions that offer little value, even if they’re free. Me time Don’t forget to look after your business’ most important asset – YOU. If you’re too busy to get to the gym, you could try working out at home or upping your wellness regime with a mindfulness app like Headspace.

About the author: Kevin Andersen is BNZ National Manager for small business acquisition, with over 30 years’ experience in financial services.

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ACROSS THE DITCH

Plumbing cadetship An innovative approach to apprentice training was launched this year by MPA Training in Sydney. AT THE MASTER Plumbers College of Excellence in Sydney, the focal point is a huge indoor drainage pit—the largest in Australia. The pit is surrounded by a twostorey tower for drainage stack training purposes, providing enough space for apprentices to practise on 16 individual bathrooms. Elsewhere in the building, timberframed mobile work stations can be easily adapted to suit the different training requirements in plumbing, drainage, gas and roofing. This private college is open to all apprentices wanting to undertake the Australian Certificate III in Plumbing. It is also home to the new Cadetship in Plumbing Engineering—an innovative training approach launched in March by registered training organisation MPA Training in association with Master Plumbers Apprentices Ltd (MPAL). The Cadetship comprises two modules. For the first 18-months, cadets attend the college for three to four days a week to carry out practical activities and assessment, including industry-based training from suppliers. Classroom-style learning is kept to a minimum. By the end of the 18 months, cadets

are skilled and ready to transition into guaranteed employment as a second-year MPAL apprentice plumber. At this point, they are placed with a host firm in the region to complete the second module: 18 months of paid employment with MPAL while they complete their indentured apprenticeship.

A different approach

A key difference between this scheme and other apprentice training models is that cadets gain their initial skills off job. By the time they get to work at a plumbing firm, they’re ready to hit the ground running as a second-year apprentice. The Cadetship is fully government funded and cadets can apply for financial assistance from the Australian government while they undertake their full-time study at the college. They are also encouraged by MPA to find a parttime job to help with their living expenses and gain good life skills. Paul Naylor, CEO of the Master Plumbers Association of NSW, says this approach has the advantage of teaching cadets the value of money. “They’re more diligent than their first-year apprentice counterparts who are earning while they

Above: A mobile station for pipe penetration training.

learn, as they aren’t being paid for the first 18 months of their training—but there’s a guaranteed job at the end of it if they complete the first module successfully.” The other main difference is the assessment methodology. “‘He who trains does not assess’ is our motto,” says Paul. Cadets undertaking the five educational streams of the Certificate III in Plumbing (Water, Drainage, Sanitary Drainage, Gas and Roof Plumbing) are assessed by a mix of internal, external and industry assessors during the course of their threeyear training. Cadets and their parents are given up-to-the-minute feedback about progress through the Cadetship, along with direct engagement if there are any issues.

New premises for college

Above: The drainage pit is the largest of its kind in Australia, and the two-storey tower enables drainage stack training. 58

October/November 2018

After seven years in the existing building, the Master Plumbers College of Excellence is on the move. With the focus on hands-on training, there’s no longer any real need for the seven classroomstyle training rooms. “The new purposebuilt premises in West Sydney is smaller (2,500sq m rather than the current 4,000sq m) but will have even more mobile training stations,” says Paul. One thing won’t be changing, though— the drainage pit and two-storey tower will remain the focal point. ■

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SAFETY FIRST

Toolbox tips Short ’n snappy health and safety updates to share with the team.

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Health and wellbeing policy builder

If your boots have laces, they’re not suitable to wear when welding, warns WorkSafe. “Welders are exposed to unique risks that other workers may not encounter. These include heat, spatter, sparks and potentially flames. Welders wear unique PPE like welding helmets, welding gloves and welding aprons, so it’s important to wear appropriate boots.”

Employees who feel supported generally perform better. A workplace wellbeing policy is a good way to build a positive and healthy workplace. Business.govt.nz has developed a new health and wellbeing policy you can customise for your business. Get started at https://wpb.business.govt.nz/workplacepolicybuilder/ startscreen

Temporary wall collapse A Fletcher Construction worker had to take eight months off work after suffering multiple leg fractures when a temporary concrete block wall collapsed on him. He was working in a 2m deep hole retained by the blocks. Water was being pumped out of the hole after heavy rainfall, and he was attaching plywood to the blocks to stop aggregate being washed under the wall. Fletcher Construction has accepted an enforceable undertaking following the 2016 incident. This is a legally binding agreement that requires them to commit to a number of health and safety initiatives, including a payment to the victim and developing a new temporary works procedure.

Risks of working hungover

Silica dust warning Silica dust is as insidious as asbestos, warns BRANZ in its Guideline newsletter. Silica dust is generated when cutting artificial or engineered stone, fibre-cement, concrete and concrete masonry, and bricks. Long-term exposure to and inhalation can cause silicosis—a progressive, irreversible lung disease. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, coughing, fever, bluish skin and frequent chest infections. Silica dust can also increase the risk of lung cancer, COPD and kidney disease. Find guidance on working with silica dust at worksafe.govt.nz under Dust and Fumes.

Workers who come to work hungover may be significantly compromising workplace safety, according to a new UK study. Researchers from the University of Bath say the effects of a big night out can last longer than people think, and that individuals may still be impaired even after all alcohol has left their bloodstream. The study showed hungover workers had poorer attention spans, reduced memory function, and diminished coordination and speed. The researchers suggest workplaces develop clear policies and procedures to cover alcohol intoxication as well as the ‘next day’ effects of heavy drinking.

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PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Prize plumbing job Winning the services of a Master Plumber for a day meant the world to this Taranaki family. EARLIER THIS YEAR, Master Plumbers ran a Facebook competition, offering the chance to win the services of a Master Plumber for a day. The competition marked World Plumbing Day on 11 March. Entrants had to like the Master Plumbers Facebook page, share the post and comment on the work they needed doing, and why they felt they should be chosen. Out of hundreds of entries, the lucky winner was Rachel Phillips from South Taranaki. Rachel and her husband Grant are in the process of renovating their 1920s house, situated on farmland with spectacular views of Mount Taranaki.

Water pressure problems

Rachel, Grant and their small son Kenny had just moved into the house and encountered issues with the water pressure. Their shower was either boiling hot or freezing cold, so particularly unsuitable for Kenny to use. Rachel wrote, “It takes a good half an hour to run my son a bath and when you’re two that’s a really long time.” Heating was another issue in their unmodified, uninsulated house where they relied on a portable gas heater. With a good supply of timber on the farm, Rachel wanted to get advice about

Above: Thumbs up for the shower improvements from Chris Baylis of Houghton’s Plumbing, Heating & Gas.

their shower was either boiling hot or freezing cold installing a wood burner, with the possibility of a wetback system in the future. Houghton’s Plumbing, Heating & Gas of Hawera stepped up to be Rachel’s Master Plumber for a Day. Managing Director Glenice Houghton was delighted to be part of the competition and kept in regular contact with Rachel over the next few months. Rachel says, “Glenice was so good and supported us every step of the way.” In the build up to the job they exchanged emails and photos and discussed options. Rachel and Grant decided to go ahead with their plans for a wood burner but put the wetback on hold for the time being. “Our current water cylinder is old but still has a bit of life left in it, so when we have to replace it we’ll choose between installing a wetback or a gas continuous flow water heating system. As we live in a rural area, any gas will have to be bottled.” Rachel and Grant bought the wood burner and Glenice guided them through the process of filling out the right documents to get the necessary consents from the South Taranaki District Council. Finally, everything came together, and 28 August was chosen as the day. Above: Grant and Rachel with son Kenny. 62

October/November 2018

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Sorting the shower

Chris Baylis and John Te Awhe from Houghton’s found the farm uses high pressure spring water, while the hot water system in Rachel and Grant’s property is low pressure. This made it very hard for the mixer taps on the bath and shower to cope, and the cold water would overwhelm the hot. A simple solution was found for the shower. The multifunction showerhead (only suitable for high pressure systems) was replaced with a single-function head and a wider hose replaced the existing narrow one. Rachel was thrilled at the immediate change. “The pressure in the shower is great. Now when we use the mixer tap, halfway is perfect!” Houghton’s also cleaned the mixer tap on the bath, which improved things slightly. “It still takes 20-30 minutes to fill a bath, but now Kenny, a typical small boy who likes mud, can use the shower,” says Rachel. “That’s made a huge difference.”

low pressure hot water systems are a common problem in rural Taranaki

Above: Chris Baylis and John Te Awhe by the newly installed woodburner.

Happy customers—deserving winners

Rachel had nothing but praise for her Master Plumber for a Day experience. “Glenice is great and knows what she’s talking about. The guys were so helpful—they spotted and sorted a potential issue with the burner installation, which may have resulted in a failed council inspection.” It passed inspection with flying colours. Rachel found Chris and John were happy to answer her questions and provide advice. “They even told us how we have to ‘wear the new fire in’ by tempering it. They’re service agents for Metro fires in our area, so it was great to have trusted, expert advice.” She also appreciated that Houghton’s gave her a quote for additional costs before starting work. While Master Plumbers footed the bill for one plumber for eight hours, Rachel paid for all materials, an extra plumber and mileage. “That was so helpful. It meant we could budget for the costs and were able to pay straight away.” Glenice Houghton says it was a pleasure working with Rachel and Grant. “They were so easy to deal with. We were happy to install the wood burner and sort out the water pressure issues. When Rachel sent through photos of the setup, I got the first inkling about what the problem was. Low pressure hot water systems are a common problem in rural Taranaki properties. “We have been proud members of Master Plumbers for 35 years and are pleased to have been involved in the ‘Win a Master Plumber for a Day’ competition. Congratulations to Master Plumbers for a fantastic promotion and to Rachel and family— the deserving winners.” ■

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“Get amongst it!” Masterlink apprentice Max Keig features in the latest edition of the NxtStep careers magazine for school leavers.

PRODUCED ONCE A year, NxtStep magazine profiles a wide range of careers. It’s distributed to all secondary schools across New Zealand, which makes Masterlink plumbing apprentice Max Keig something of a celebrity. Max, who works at Master Plumbers member business Climate & Plumbing in New Plymouth, was selected to share his thoughts in the latest edition of NxtStep about the advantages of choosing a plumbing career. He told the magazine he doesn’t think he’s a ‘typical’ plumber. Growing up in the middle of town, he’s into skateboarding and surfing rather than rugby—though he does love the outdoors and being active. Max is three months into his five-year plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting apprenticeship and is off to a great start. “It’s very technical and you have to use your brain power,” he says. “It’s definitely not a career for slackers!” At school, Max imagined going to university but the idea of student debt didn’t appeal. It was while watching a report on Seven Sharp that he learned he could be paid to train as an apprentice and decided to look into that option instead. Max was doing electrical work experience through his high school’s Career Pathway Programme when a careers advisor suggested he give plumbing a go. He enjoyed it so much that he switched. He’s loving the placement at his host firm. “They’re a great bunch of friendly people,” he says. “Climate was my favourite place for work experience by far.” Climate initially took Max on a trial for three months to see how he adapted to being in the workplace, and he proved himself keen and able. As a result, they contacted Masterlink Regional Manager Bob McCoy to sign him up as an apprentice. Max says his work keeps him on his toes. “I find it really difficult to describe a typical day. Every day brings a different job—I could be doing anything.” At the moment, he’s mostly working on new installations and repairs at customer’s houses. “You definitely feel like your earn your weekend!” he says of the physical nature of the work. Customer service, however, comes easily having gained previous work experience in a supermarket. Getting paid while he trains has enabled Max to move out of the family home and become independent. He’s also successfully overcome a phobia. “I used to get scared of spiders, but I got over it because I didn’t want to look like a wuss! I quite enjoy being under houses now.” Max believes a positive attitude, being willing to learn and not being afraid to get your hands dirty are important qualities. His advice to budding apprentices is to “just get amongst it”. “It’s a bit of a shock getting into work,” he says. “You have to start low, do what you’re told and get used to people keeping an eye on you to see how you’re getting on. It’s all good though and you learn so fast!” ■

Above: Max loves working with the Climate team.

October/November 2018 65

MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD

Auckland apprentice campaign Masterlink are on the hunt for quality apprentices in Auckland.

With the shortage of career paths cannot offer.” plumbers in the Auckland Kate Jenkins, Masterlink region, we’ve been running Operations Manager, says a social media advertising plumbing is a great career campaign to attract option for school leavers, people wanting to pursue but also for people who’ve a plumbing, gasfitting or been to university or tried drainlaying career. Our out another career path and campaign has included realised it’s not working for teaser videos and apprentices them. profiles on Instagram and “In New Zealand, the Above: Masterlink’s Auckland social media campaign to attract quality Facebook. average age of a plumbing apprentice candidates. “The current shortage of apprentice is actually 23 plumbers means career prospects for all plumbers are excellent,” years old. So, we have seen many apprentices come through says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. “Plumbers are in high Masterlink who have been to university or have been working in demand and there is a certain level of job security which other other professions.”

Women in trades

Operations Manager Kate Jenkins went along to the Women in Trades miniconference in September. “It was a really interesting few hours and Masterlink will be supporting the event going forward,” says Kate. “Women currently make up only three percent of the trades workforce, so it was good to see such a well-attended event. The Give it a Go section was particularly popular, with activities ranging from operating a digger to plastering a wall and changing a tyre. It was great to see young women trying something they had never tried before, and it was obvious from the smiles that they all got a lot of enjoyment from it.” The event gave women a chance to meet with tradeswomen, employers and trades training providers and learn about career pathways. It included a panel discussion about the challenges and opportunities for women considering a trades career.

Above: The keynote speaker was Pip Buunk, NZ’s only registered female driller.

NZ Group Training Alliance formed Masterlink is part of a new alliance of group training scheme providers. Masterlink have joined with fellow group apprenticeship and training scheme providers ATNZ and The Electrical Training Company to form the New Zealand Group Training Alliance (NZGTA)—collectively directly employing more than 1,200 apprentices. “Our aim is to share our expertise and experiences for the betterment of trades training and trades trainees,” says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. “We share the same values, integrity and passion for the industries we work in and 66

October/November 2018

aspire to be the best in our respective markets.” Promoting group training schemes is one of five priority initiatives in the Government’s Construction Skills Action Plan to grow the workforce. “NZGTA is committed to engaging with Government, and Government agencies charged with researching, developing and recommending changes to the tertiary education sector regarding vocational and trade training,” says Greg.

MASTERLINK MESSAGEBOARD

At the CPD show It’s been great to be a part of the CPD Roadshow.

As the 2018 PGDB & Mico CPD Roadshow rolled into 33 venues, Masterlink and Master Plumbers team members were on hand to man our trade show stand around the regions.

Photo courtesy of www.leavingschool.co.nz.

Right: Master Plumbers Business Development Manager Steve Rushworth (left) and Masterlink Central North Island Manager Dave McGall were at the Tauranga trade show. Far right: Auckland & Northland Regional Manager Tania Forsyth chatting with CPD attendees..

“Couldn’t have done it without Masterlink” Check out Ezra Jordan’s profile in the latest issue of Leaving School magazine. Masterlink plumbing and gasfitting apprentice Ezra Jordan features in Issue 13 of Leaving School, a free guide to study and career options for school students. Our thanks to Plumbing World for getting behind the article. Ezra, 24, is halfway through his apprenticeship with Masterlink and works at Topline Trade Services in Auckland. He recommends plumbing as being a great career with plenty of opportunities Above: Ezra enjoys constantly learning new and a community feel. “I started working with

information and techniques.

a builder and loved it but then I started helping out a plumber and just found the work so interesting. It caught my attention more than anything I had done before,” he says in the magazine. Ezra says he couldn’t have done it without Masterlink. “Masterlink provide job security and kind of give you a kick start,” he says. “They find you a company that wants to take you on and they look after you and mentor you.” Read the full article at https://oliverlee.co.nz/ leavingschool-issue13/

Joining the Trade Up Tour Plumbing World’s recent Trade Up Tour generated plenty of interest in a plumbing career. As we reported last edition, Plumbing World Young Plumbers Club ambassadors Logan Dodds and Jesse James took to the road in their Trade Up Tour campervan in August to promote the benefits of a plumbing career to college students around NZ. Masterlink and Master Plumbers staff were there too, ready to take questions from pupils keen to know more about a plumbing apprenticeship. Some very understanding Masterlink hosts let their apprentices turn up too, and we thank them all for their support.

Above: Masterlink team members Lisa Duston and Sam Timlin with Logan and Jesse at Christchurch Boys.

Got A Trade and SpeedMeets

We’ve played an active part in this year’s Got A Trade! events. Masterlink CEO Greg Wallace and Operations Manager Kate Jenkins attended the Parliament launch of Got A Trade! Week in August (see p70). Got A Trade Ambassadors received certificates from Education Minister Chris Hipkins at the launch to acknowledge their part in promoting trades careers to young Kiwis. The week was followed in September by SpeedMeets at secondary schools, with Masterlink among the employers

getting in front of school students in Christchurch, Auckland, Whakatane, Whangarei and Hastings. At the end of each event, students and employers indicating a mutual interest are matched up to continue the career conversation. Masterlink’s Sam Timlin attended the Christchurch event and says he almost lost his voice telling a steady stream of students about plumbing career possibilities. “Meeting some great potential apprentices made it all worthwhile,” he says.

October/November 2018 67

NEXT GENERATION

Associated electrical E-tec explains the importance of getting your Associated Tradesperson Licence. EVERY SELF-RESPECTING tradesperson wants to be helpful and go the extra mile for their customers, but when it comes to on-premises wiring—particularly for plumbers—going the extra mile without the correct licence is irresponsible, dangerous and potentially very expensive. Any plumber doing on-premises wiring without the correct licence is breaking the law, risking public safety and running the risk of severe fines. As a PGD worker, you must be aware that every time you connect or disconnect fittings to, or from, a power supply you could be committing a criminal offence. Gasfitters and plumbers sometimes have to deal with work outside of their usual day-to-day responsibilities. This can include fitting water heaters or other appliances to mains power. The Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) regulates this part of a tradesperson’s work, and there is a specific licence you’ll need to complete this type of work legally and safely. The Associated Tradesperson Licence allows a plumber or gasfitter to connect or disconnect fittings to, or from, a power supply when working under 250 volts and 16 amperes. This work can only be done in relation to their trade. The licence also allows the tradesperson to test their own electrical work and certify and supervise particular electrical work (excluding any work done in mining operations).

There are hefty repercussions for any unlicensed work—for good reason. Those performing unlicensed work could end up with fines as high as $50,000 for individuals, $250,000 for companies, and/or time in court. The good news is it’s simple to get licensed. You just need to: • be a registered plumber or gasfitter with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) • pass an EWRB-approved Associated Tradespersons theory exam and practical assessment • complete approved safety training within the set timeframe. E-tec is a specialist training provider for electrical work and is currently the only provider running EWRB approved Associated Tradesperson courses and practical assessments. E-tec’s Associated Tradesperson course allows plumbers and gasfitters nationwide to get qualified to carry out authorised electrical work. The course is made up of distance learning before a threeday practical course, followed by an external exam. The course runs regularly in Auckland but can be run ‘on request’ in other centres if there are enough enrolments. Contact E-tec on 09 573 1964 or email admin@shift.org.nz For details on what the Associated Tradesperson License permits you to do, visit https://www.ewrb.govt.nz/workingsafely-and-in-compliance/limits-of-work/ ■

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Got A Trade!

Engagement with Got A Trade! Week is growing year-on-year, as increasing numbers of school leavers consider a career in trades and services. THIS YEAR’S GOT A Trade! Week launch event took place in August in Parliament, with Education Minister Hon Chris Hipkins hosting 165 guests in the Grand Hall. Employers, guests and the Got A Trade! Ambassadors, representing 10 different trades, attended the launch, where the ambassadors were presented with certificates. This included Plumbing Ambassador Nikita Ward (see over page). Got A Trade? Got It Made! is a joint initiative from the Industry Training Federation (ITF) and nine ITOs, which provides resources and events to encourage young people into careers in the trades and services. The annual Got A Trade! Week is gaining traction with every year, with more and more employers and secondary schools getting behind the event. The launch also provided an opportunity to show the new Find your Fit video, sung by the Hype Men. “The song written for the campaign and the band’s performance were all better than we could have hoped for,” says ITF Communications & Campaigns Manager Donna Lewis. “With a combined social audience of over 50,840 engaged people, this video was a powerful tool and we have encouraged schools to use it as a classroom resource to start conversations about career pathways.”

learn apprentice pathways. ITF Chief Executive Josh Williams travelled to New Zealand’s largest secondary school, Rangitoto College, to attend their Got A Trade? Got It Made! day. “We are thrilled to support those schools that use our campaign as their own,” says Donna. Secondary schools whose efforts stand out can be nominated by an ITO for an annual award. This year’s Got A Trade? Got It Made! School of the Year was Central Hawkes Bay College. “Its range of Vocational Pathways and Gateway placements give its senior secondary students the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of workplace training and learning opportunities with local businesses,” says Donna of the winning school. “Through its efforts, Central Hawkes Bay College is developing employability skills, connecting with local employers and giving students valuable insights into potential job opportunities and learning pathways while they study towards NCEA qualifications.” During the week, Josh Williams also featured on various media channels, including Radio New Zealand’s Morning Report, talking about the need to drive up the numbers of school leavers going into apprenticeships.

Secondary school visits

September SpeedMeets

The week was followed by Got A Trade! SpeedMeets, held in September at eight high schools around the country. Their main

Photography by Colin McDiarmid.

During the week, the Got A Trade! team and ITOs visited nationwide schools that are doing great work around earn and

Above: Education Minister Chris Hipkins presenting certificates to Got A Trade! Ambassadors at the launch event in Parliament in August. 70

October/November 2018

EARN POINTS, REDEEM FOR GREAT REWARDS Above: Got A Trade? Got It Made! School of the Year was Central Hawkes Bay College. Gateway/STAR & International Coordinator Kim Walker (left), with Gateway Teacher Lead Shaye Anderson and Principal Lance Christiansen are shown here at the Parliament launch.

aim is to facilitate the introduction of school students and job seekers to actual career opportunities, including plumbing. “This was the fourth year for the SpeedMeets and we have expanded the number of schools and employers able to take part year-on-year,” says Donna. “They bring the opportunity for students to meet with potential employers speed-dating style, with seven-minute mini interviews. All the businesses involved have committed to offer training and apprenticeship pathways to youth.” Head of Careers and Employment Pathways at Hutt Valley High School in Lower Hutt, Jude Allen says SpeedMeets are an awesome initiative. “For our students to develop their interview skills talking with real employers is a fantastic learning experience and confidence booster,” she says. “It also gives those of us working in schools some confidence that industry is making an effort to connect our students with trades opportunities.”

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Above: A SpeedMeet at Hutt Valley High School.

NEXT GENERATION

Plumbing Ambassador Nikita Ward Apprentice Nikita Ward has plenty of good stuff to say about her job in her role as Plumbing Ambassador for Got a Trade? Got it Made! Nikita Ward is the real-life plumbing ambassador for Got A Trade? Got it Made!, a joint ITO initiative to encourage people into trade and services careers. Nikita is in the third year of a plumbing apprenticeship at Master Plumbers member business Hutt Gas and Plumbing—and loving it. In her profile on the Got a Trade! website, Nikita says people tend to think plumbing is all about poo. “I’ve been doing this for three years and only had to deal with it maybe 10 times,” she says. “The grubby stuff is crawling under houses. You get used to it. I quite enjoy it now. I like the challenge of squeezing into small spaces.” And, sometimes, unexpected things are going on beneath people’s properties. “I was under a house once capping off an old heater and there was a funny noise,” recalls Nikita. “There were blue penguins living under the house. The guy I was working with kept shining his torch on them and they started making a racket. I shouted, ‘Stop shining the torch! I’m still under here and I don’t want them running towards me!’” Nikita was planning on an arts degree, but decided it wasn’t for her. She had been working at an after school and holiday programme for three years when her partner, who’s a builder, suggested a trade. She topped her class at a 17week pre-trade course at WelTec before starting her apprenticeship at Hutt Gas & Plumbing.

the physical side of plumbing hasn’t been an issue

October/November 2018

Above: Nikita Ward from Hutt Gas and Plumbing.

“I’m in my third year now and I’ve already sat my Tradesman exam for gasfitting,” says Nikita. “Next, I want to get my plumbing licence. It’s not easy, but well worth it.” Out of around 30 workers in the company there’s one other girl and Nikita says it’s fun working together with her. She says the guys’ attitude has been really good, too. “They take what I have to say on board, and they teach me their way of doing things.” One of the biggest challenges for Nikita is sitting down and studying. “School wasn’t the best thing for me because I’m dyslexic. I can read something and go… what the hell! But then one of the boys explains it to me and I get it.” The physical side of plumbing hasn’t been an issue for her. “You don’t have to be a massive body-builder, though you

you’re doing multiple things, dealing with different people and situations do build up a bit of muscle.” One of the big things she likes about the job is variety. “You’re doing multiple things, dealing with different people and different situations.” At the end of a job she gets satisfaction from standing back and seeing a job done well. “It’s not just about pipes. There’s evidence of your work in front of you. You take pride in that.”

Mana in Mahi launched STARTING WITH A small pilot and expected to expand to 4,000 next year, Mana in Mahi—Strength in Work was launched by the Government in August. The scheme aims to get young people off the benefit and into employment. It will apply primarily to 18-24-year-olds who have been on the benefit for six months or more. Young people who take part will be paid while they work towards recognised industry training qualifications, including New Zealand Apprenticeships. Depending on the industry, industry training qualifications can be achieved in a number of ways. Young people may be able to enter straight into a Level 4 qualification, or start with a lower level qualification and work up to a Level 4 qualification. Employers will get a wage subsidy to help with the cost of hiring a young person through the scheme. Mana in Mahi is starting out with four employers across the following industries: • Construction – Downer Group, Auckland • Dairy – Wairarapa Moana Incorporation Dairy, Central North Island • Hospitality – Wellington Hospitality Group, Wellington • Hairdressing & Beauty – Vivo Hair & Beauty, nationwide.

NEXT GENERATION

Employers are to be paid the dole equivalent for taking on young people on the benefit.

Employers interested in taking part in Mana in Mahi are asked to email the Ministry for Social Development (MSD)’s Industry Partnerships team industrypartnerships@msd.govt.nz MSD says the programme details are still being worked through. If you have any queries, call them on 0800 559 009. ■

STOP PRESS!

As NZ Plumber went to print, the Government revealed its plan to address construction skills shortages. The Construction Skills Action plan has six initial priority areas, including the Mana in Mahi initiative. “This is an important first step in delivering the construction skills we need for the 21st century,” said Building and Construction Minister Jenny Salesa. As part of the plan, bidders for Government contracts who can prove that their contractors and subcontractors provide training opportunities are more likely to win the projects, which represent 18% of construction jobs in New Zealand. “Master Plumbers provided feedback on the draft Construction Skills Action Plan and we welcome its release,” says Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace. “However, we think the Mana in Mahi subsidy should be available to jobseekers of all ages, as many plumbing apprentices start their training long after leaving school.”

True or False? You can connect a replacement water heater to an existing mains wiring without an Associated Tradesperson Licence. If you answered ‘True’ then you could end up with some hefty fines. Contact E-tec to find out how to get your Associated Tradesperson Licence. 09 573 1964 admin@shift.org.nz

ETC0004

TIMES PAST

Portrait of a plumber Photograph Ref: EP/1955/2182-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ.

There’s an intriguing story behind the painting of an apprentice plumber on a mural in the Lower Hutt War Memorial Library. IN 1955, 18-year-old plumbing apprentice John Butt was asked to be part of a series of three huge murals for the Lower Hutt War Memorial Library. “I was chosen because I was that year’s top plumbing apprentice in Lower Hutt,” recalls John, who is now 80. As a student at Petone Technical College, he was the only one of 40 in his year group to pass the final eight-hour exam at the first sitting. “You had to answer five out of the six questions: two on regulations, two on maths and two on general plumbing,” he recalls. His employer didn’t seem too impressed that his apprentice had been approached for the mural, though—docking John’s pay while he undertook three sittings for Wellington artist Leonard Mitchell’s detailed line drawings. The three murals still hang in the library today, each depicting a different theme. John features on Human Endeavour, a mural depicting 50 real-life Lower Hutt citizens. There’s a shop

Above: An Evening Post newspaper photograph of artist Leonard Mitchell, left, presenting his mural design to D M Wylie and Lower Hutt War Memorial Library architect Ronald Muston.

there has been renewed interest in finding out who those people were

Above: This photo of John in front of the Human Endeavour mural was taken in 2018. John is depicted in the back row, second from right. 74

October/November 2018

assistant here, a grocer there, a butcher, bus driver, postman, a farmer and an actress. The artist is in the picture too, along with the library’s architect, Ron Muston. “At the time there were to be no names given on the mural because we were meant to represent a cross section of the community,” explains John. “However, there has been renewed interest in finding out who those people were since the line drawings were purchased by the Alexander Turnbull Library in the 1990s—and most have been identified.” Leonard Mitchell was commissioned to paint the murals for the Library’s opening in February 1956 and had just three-anda-half months to complete the task. The architect’s original plan was for the murals to be painted straight onto the walls, but Mitchell insisted they were done on canvas to ensure longevity. The slow arrival of the canvas meant the murals were unfinished when they were collected for installation, and he had to complete them on site—finishing with the help of his brother and father just as the first guests arrived for the official opening.

TIMES PAST

he shifted to Tauranga to start his own business in 1961

Reference: B-125-012. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ.

At the time, they were the largest to be commissioned in New Zealand, with the two in the main Memorial Hall entrance measuring 20ft tall by 14ft wide (approx. 6m x 4.2m) and the Human Endeavour mural measuring 8.5ft tall by 28ft wide (approx. 2.5m x 8.5m). Originally designed to hang over the library’s main desk, it now resides on the library’s South wall. John did his apprenticeship at AN Grant & Son in Petone, a company with a sole focus on industrial maintenance. After qualifying, he shifted to Tauranga to start his own business in 1961. He became heavily involved in Master Plumbers, serving on the executive committee of his regional Association and contributing to the national Society’s strategic planning. When the 1991 Building Act came into force, John saw an opening for backflow protection testing and still does this work today. He also won a Gold Seal design award in 1996 for his MAF-approved tap-free hand basin design for use in food premises. ■

Above: Leonard Mitchell’s 1950s pencil line drawing of plumbing apprentice John Butt.

Above: The Human Endeavour mural was designed to hang above the main desk in the library. October/November 2018 75

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October/November 2018 77

AND FINALLY

Offcuts

This edition’s plumbing-related media snippets and oddities. Toilet or rubbish bin?

According to a recent Selwyn Times article, it’s not just wet wipes that are being flushed down the loo and clogging the district’s sewer pump stations. Other items found in local sewer systems included latex gloves, condoms, clothing, cigarette butts, plasters and syringes—none of which break down or dissolve in water. The district council had spent about $50,000 in 2017 clearing 269 pump station blockages, it said. Accompanying the article was a picture of one of the pumps blocked by a T-shirt.

Queue for the loo

An Australian university lecturer called for “more equitable” allocation of space and facilities in women’s public toilets in a recent article reproduced in the NZ Herald. The article looked at why queues for women’s loos are longer than men’s. Apparently, women are more likely than men to wash their hands and use the hand dryer. Plus, women take an average 90 seconds in the toilet, compared with 60 seconds for men. Some reasons are biological, it notes. “About half the female population is of menstruating age and of those, at least 20%

Taking the test

Plumber Jeff Evans came across this 1959 exam paper in a house that belonged to a plumber. Looks like he had three hours to answer five of the set questions—and we can only guess he passed!

October/November 2018

will be menstruating at any one time.” For women, pregnancy and a higher likelihood of health conditions like cystitis also mean frequent toilet trips. Plus, there’s the matter of more clothing layers to deal with, and fewer cubicles than urinals in a given space—and no doors to open and lock, or bags to hang, in a urinal. And that’s not to forget the time a woman may spend checking in the mirror… In Hong Kong, building regulations now specify 1.6 female toilets to every one male toilet in public spaces, according to the article.

Making amends for drink-driving

A 30-year-old Queenstown plumber who was arrested for drink-driving in March was granted a rare discharge in August, according to Mountain Scene. Apparently, the judge had never seen anyone go to such lengths to right their wrong. To help make amends, he has set up Charity Trade Link, which aims to connect Wakatipu charities and not-for-profit organisations with tradespeople and companies willing to help for free or discounted rates. The article says he has also raised more than $1,500 for a charity triathlon and has promised to be ‘on call for eternity’ to do voluntary work for the Kiwi Birdlife Park. His discharge was conditional on him paying $1,200 to an Auckland-based trust that works with young people to advocate against drink-driving and he wants to work with other organisations in Queenstown to do the same, says the paper.

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EXCLUSIVE

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TO MASTER PLUMBER MEMBERS! CONTENTS

JUNE/JULY 2018

ON THE COVER HOW BINDING IS A QUOTE? AND CAN IT BE WITHDRAWN?—See p62

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTS Your rights and obligations

Inside this issue

2017 t MPA Finalis

DODGY PRODUCT

HOW ORGANISED ARE YOU? Work smart tips

NEW!

Better policing needed

TECHNICAL THEME

TOMORROW’S GASFITTERS Learning support

HOT WATER

Water chemistry, home heating and more

70 Cover photograph: A new consumer campaign from MBIE.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

WHAT’S ON 7

Check out our industry calendar

MASTER PLUMBERS NEWS 8

CEO Greg Wallace on apprentice training; new Comms & Marketing Advisor; product advocacy and Best in Brand prize

50 Staying strong Outstanding Services to Industry Award winner Dave Strong

TECHNICAL THEME: HOT WATER TECHNOLOGY 21

IN FOCUS 12

Policing products Why better controls are needed around imported product

24 Warm water—warm home Combining household hot water with the central heating system

Customer contracts A new campaign reminds contractors of their obligations

26 Legionella control Legionella in potable water systems

REAL LIVES 18

Driven to succeed Plumber Jacob Smith sets himself a high bar

42 Walking into retirement Why this 76-year-old ex-tutor is tramping the length of New Zealand

Water pH impact Why water pH matters when choosing hot water products

August/September 2017

29 HPWH technology How they work plus installation tips

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT 30 Preservation plumbing Heritage house plumbing work

NUTS & BOLTS 35

Taken in isolation Benefits of isolation valves

36 Backflow basics What plumbers need to know about backflow prevention 39 Device types Unsure which type of backflow device to use? 40 Tech points Technical updates in brief

INDUSTRY TALK 44 Asbestos removal training Training requirements for an asbestos removal licence 45 Heating up Emirates Team New Zealand Rinnai’s hot water solution for the Bermuda crew 45 Watercare changes in Auckland Changes to compliance statements and connections 46 Sam’s speak What’s the answer to the plumber shortage?

48 Steel mesh charges Charges filed against three producers 48 Cylinder restraint study Could be time for a new approach 49 Homestar rating tool updated Homestar v4 makes the assessment process easier

HEALTH MATTERS 52

P aware The risks of working in meth houses

SUSTAINABLE FUTURES

58 KiwiSaver—10 years on It’s a no-brainer for young working people to join, says the IR 59 Contract Works cover When your subcontract agreement includes Contract Works excess 60 How organised are you? Top tips to working smarter—plus two case studies

NEXT GENERATION 70 Tomorrow’s gasfitters How Rinnai is supporting gasfitting apprentices 73

Taking on the world Young Kiwi plumber prepares for Worldskills Internationals

Apprenticeship designed by you A new website from Skills to have your say

62 Quote, unquote How binding is a quote?

54 Water recharge Two new managed aquifer recharge projects

64 Pricing & payments Tips on optimising efficiency and profitability

SMART BUSINESS

INNOVATION

56 We’re watching you Legal boundaries of electronic staff surveillance

66 Drain brain Odour eating floor waste product

67 Urgency needed on skill shortages BNZ on why business and government need to work together

Process for change What to know when altering an employee’s agreement

WORLD VIEW 69 Hospital on hold Lead contamination in water at new Perth Children’s Hospital

SUPPLY LINES

PRODUCTS & SERVICES 79 What’s new in the marketplace

AND FINALLY 81

Offcuts Bits and pieces of the unusual kind

82 Dodgy plumbing The best of the worst August/September 2017

MASTER PLUMBER OF THE YEAR What makes a winning business

APRIL/MAY 2018

READ ALL ABOUT IT

PEDAL TO THE METAL

Addressing lead in plumbing fittings

NZ Plumbing Conference highlights

2017 MPA Finalist

CAMP GLENORCHY

Major sustainable plumbing project BEST OF THE BEST

National award winners

PODS & PREFABS

Implications for plumbers

THE HEAT IS ON

Heating technical theme

Available via www.pocketmags.com

Just download the Pocketmags app on your mobile device and log-in to start reading!

www.masterplumbers.org.nz

AND FINALLY

DODGY Plumbing

Keep them coming! Send your Dodgy Plumbing examples to the Ed: beverlysellers@xtra.co.nz

Dodgy plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying and roofing… we’ve got the lot!

Driveway disaster

Thanks to Bill Mortlock of GN Brewer for sending in this photo of some dodgy drainage he spotted: “Sub-soil piped to enter stormwater system via silt sump but discharges all water over asphalt driveway.”

“Pretty unreal”

“A photo that a mate sent me of a cylinder he saw on a site in Auckland,” says Trent Boyle. “Pretty unreal guys out there are doing work like this!”

Source of the smell

“The owners were putting up with sewer smells in their house for a couple of years—think I found the problem!” says Christopher Glover of this piece of dodgy plumbing he came across in an Auckland property.

Fit for purpose?

“The reason we don’t use plumbing fittings on gas,” says Chris Herbert of this dodgy gasfitting gem.

October/November 2018 81

AND FINALLY

DODGY Plumbing

UED

CONTIN

Up the drain…

“When one of our plumbers went to site to check out a leaking HWC, this is what he came across,” says Maryan Zentveld of Gardiner Plumbing & The Gas Shop. “No we didn’t take this photo upside down. Maybe the old fellas didn’t have an installation book when they put this in. Never heard of a drain going upwards.”

Flue folly

Thanks to Mel Glasgow of PlumberMan Rotorua for sending in this dodgy plumbing photo. “We were working on the neighbouring property’s roof and saw this flue. It’s got no outer flue on it which is a potential fire hazard.” The council was advised.

October/November 2018

When the plumbers on this job couldn’t find the roof leak, they improvised by screwing a Tupperware lid with the drain going outside. Not to worry about the timber in the roof as long as it doesn’t drip on the floor….

“So ridiculous!”

“Our team of roofers attended to a roof leak only to find that the valley was put on over top of the iron—therefore the water off the roof flowed underneath this,” says Alby Wilkes of Laser Plumbing Dunedin Central. “An existing deteriorated valley is there but they’ve decided to put another valley over the top. Meaning over the top of everything! So ridiculous!”

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