Install And Maintain Basic Plumbing Components Training

Objectives:
• Understand the scope of plumbing work and the role of a plumber.
• Identify relevant safety regulations and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Recognize common plumbing tools and materials.
• Apply safe work practices in a simulated environment.

Topics:
• Overview of plumbing systems and components.
• Health and safety legislation (OHS Act, SANS 10087-1).
• Hazard identification and risk assessment.
• PPE requirements and correct usage.
• Introduction to hand tools: pipe wrenches, cutters, files.
• Introduction to power tools: drills, grinders.
• Material identification: PVC, copper, galvanized steel.
• Safe storage and handling of materials.

Objectives:
• Correctly measure and cut pipes to required lengths.
• Identify and select appropriate fittings for different pipe materials.
• Demonstrate joining techniques for PVC and copper pipes.
• Apply soldering and solvent cementing methods safely.

Topics:
• Measuring techniques using tape measures and levels.
• Pipe cutting: hacksaw, pipe cutter, and deburring.
• PVC pipe joining: solvent cement application and curing.
• Copper pipe joining: soldering with flux and propane torch.
• Threaded connections: using dies and thread seal tape.
• Types of fittings: elbows, tees, couplings, reducers.
• Pressure testing joints for leaks.
• Common mistakes and troubleshooting.

Objectives:
• Understand water supply principles (pressure, flow, backflow prevention).
• Plan and lay out pipe routes according to building plans.
• Install pipe supports and brackets correctly.
• Connect pipes to water mains and fixtures.

Topics:
• Water supply system components: mains, meters, stopcocks.
• Backflow prevention devices and regulations.
• Reading plumbing drawings and symbols.
• Pipe routing: avoiding structural elements.
• Installing pipe clips, saddles, and hangers.
• Connecting to water mains: tapping and ferrule installation.
• Installing isolation valves and drain cocks.
• Testing water supply lines for pressure and flow.

Objectives:
• Understand drainage system principles (gravity, venting, traps).
• Install waste pipes with correct fall and alignment.
• Connect fixtures to drainage stacks.
• Test drainage systems for leaks and blockages.

Topics:
• Drainage system components: traps, vents, stacks.
• Fall requirements for waste pipes (1:40 to 1:60).
• Installing P-traps and S-traps.
• Connecting toilets, basins, and sinks.
• Vent pipe installation and termination.
• Drainage pipe materials: PVC, cast iron.
• Leak testing with water or smoke.
• Clearing blockages: plungers, augers.

Objectives:
• Install toilets, basins, and sinks according to manufacturer specifications.
• Connect water supply and drainage to fixtures.
• Apply waterproofing and sealing techniques.
• Test fixtures for proper operation and leaks.

Topics:
• Toilet installation: floor flange, wax ring, tank assembly.
• Basin installation: bracket mounting, tap connections.
• Sink installation: undermount, top-mount, and pedestal.
• Connecting supply lines: flexible hoses, shut-off valves.
• Drain assembly: pop-up stoppers, grid wastes.
• Sealing joints: silicone, plumber's putty.
• Adjusting float valves and flush mechanisms.
• Final inspection and operational test.

Objectives:
• Identify different types of hot water systems (geysers, solar, heat pumps).
• Install a geyser with safety and efficiency.
• Connect hot water supply to fixtures.
• Install washing machine and dishwasher connections.

Topics:
• Hot water system types and components.
• Geyser installation: positioning, brackets, safety valve.
• Temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR).
• Piping hot water lines: copper, PEX.
• Insulation requirements for pipes and geyser.
• Washing machine connection: hoses, standpipe, drain.
• Dishwasher connection: supply and drain.
• Testing hot water system for leaks and temperature.

Objectives:
• Diagnose common plumbing faults (leaks, blockages, low pressure).
• Perform routine maintenance on taps, toilets, and pipes.
• Replace washers, cartridges, and valve seats.
• Clear blocked drains using appropriate methods.

Topics:
• Common fault identification: dripping taps, running toilets.
• Tap maintenance: replacing washers, O-rings, cartridges.
• Toilet repair: flapper valve, fill valve, flush handle.
• Pipe repair: patching, sleeving, re-routing.
• Drain cleaning: plunger, snake, hydro-jetting.
• Clearing blocked traps and vents.
• Maintenance schedules and record keeping.
• Safety precautions during repairs.

Objectives:
• Install rainwater harvesting systems and greywater reuse.
• Understand solar water heating installation basics.
• Work with PEX and push-fit fittings.
• Apply water conservation principles.

Topics:
• Rainwater harvesting: gutters, downpipes, tanks, filters.
• Greywater systems: diverters, treatment, irrigation.
• Solar water heating: panels, controllers, circulation pumps.
• PEX piping: expansion and crimp methods.
• Push-fit fittings: advantages and limitations.
• Water conservation fixtures: low-flow taps, dual-flush toilets.
• Pressure reducing valves and expansion tanks.
• System integration and compliance with SANS 10400.

Objectives:
• Complete a full plumbing installation from plans to testing.
• Demonstrate all skills learned in a simulated project.
• Conduct final inspections and handover procedures.
• Complete documentation and unit standard assessment.

Topics:
• Project brief: install supply and drainage for a bathroom.
• Interpreting plumbing drawings and specifications.
• Installing pipework, fixtures, and fittings.
• Pressure testing and leak detection.
• Final adjustments and quality checks.
• Handover: user instructions and maintenance tips.
• Completing assessment tasks per unit standard.
• Review of key concepts and Q&A.