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A lack of skilled workers and poor training opportunities are the most pressing concerns of the modern plumbing and heating installer, new research shows.
A survey carried out by leading manufacturer of Hep2O plastic push-fit pipes, Wavin, set out to discover what makes installers tick, and gather details on the current state of the plumbing and heating trade.
Over half (56%) of respondents stated that the skills gap is the biggest threat facing the plumbing industry today. However, more than four fifths (86%) of plumbing professionals would still recommend it as a career, thanks to an abundance of work and high job satisfaction.
The findings also provided a range of additional new insights, including that plumbers are making the most of the new materials on the market, with over 32% seeing a decline in copper use. Meanwhile, when it comes to the perfect customer, it’s all about prompt payment with almost half of respondents (48%) saying this is a much appreciated quality.
Hep2O’s State of the Nation survey paints the picture of the modern day plumber as someone who loves to spend their spare time in the great outdoors, or grabbing a bite to eat in the latest high street restaurant. And, rather interestingly, in the world of politics over a fifth (21%) would like to see renowned actor Idris Elba to take on the role of Prime Minister.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, a cup of tea and a sandwich remain the refreshments of choice, favoured by 47% and 65% of respondents respectively. Meanwhile, football is the sport of choice for plumbers, with the beautiful game preferred by 48% of survey participants.
“It is no secret that the construction industry is in the midst of a skills shortage” noted Karen Stables, Marketing Manager at Hep2O. “Earlier this year, it was revealed that plumbing is just one of many skilled professions where demand outweighs supply, and without intervention, this can only get worse. Our survey only reinforces how large scale the issue is becoming.
“If we, as an industry, are to tackle the issue effectively, we need to look at the reasons behind the skills gap and address those accordingly. At Hep2O, we actively work with colleges and students to engage new talent entering the profession, to complement our existing eLearning and CPD courses.”
John Allen was one of the 149 plumbing and heating installers who took part in the survey, and the lucky winner of a £50 Amazon voucher. “I never win anything so this was a great surprise!” said John.
“I’m sure I speak for most installers when I say that the industry needs more skilled workers, and I’m pleased to see a manufacturer like Wavin raising awareness of the issue. I really enjoy my job, so much so that I’ll probably spend my voucher on some new tools!”
Hep2O is the UKs leading provider of plastic piping solutions for hot and cold applications. Featuring revolutionary technology and extensive guarantees, Hep2O lets installers do a good job first time, every time.
For more details of the training already on offer from Hep2O, visit: https://myportal.wavin.co.uk/e-learning/course, or contact the team: myportal@wavin.co.uk
“Survey findings based on 149 responses from March 2018 – May 2018.