Page 89 - The City and Guilds Textbook: Plumbing Book 1 for the Level 3 Apprenticeship (9189), Level 2 Technical Certificate (8202) and Level 2 Diploma (6035)

COMMON PROCESSES AND TECHNIQUES CHAPTER 2

INTRODUCTION

A plumber’s job is to install the systems of hot and cold water, central heating, sanitation and gas in a
professional, efficient and organised manner, using materials safely, economically and correctly. This involves
planning and setting out the work, and using installation techniques that not only satisfy the requirements of
the customer and protect their property, but that also comply with the relevant regulations, British Standards
and codes of good practice.

In this chapter, we will explore the wide variety of tools we use, the range of materials available and the correct
methods of working we need to install them.

By the end of this chapter, you will have knowledge and understanding of the following:
● how to use hand tools
● types of pipework, bending and jointing techniques
● preparation techniques
● how to use pipe clips and pipe brackets
● pipework installation techniques.

1 USING HAND AND POWER TOOLS

A wide range of tools are used in plumbing for the different tasks and
installations customers require. You must know how to use them correctly
and safely, as well as how to keep them in good working order to ensure a long
working life.

Hand tools

Screwdrivers

There are many different types of screwdrivers, some with specialist
applications and uses, such as insulated electrical screwdrivers and long-bladed
types. A plumber should have a wide selection of screwdrivers available. The
common head types are shown in Table 2.1.
 Table 2.1 Common types of screwdriver head
Flat blade
For use with slotted screws.
Care should be taken to ensure the correct blade size for the screw
slot.
Phillips head
Originally designed in the 1930s to intentionally ‘ride out’ of the screw
head, to prevent over-tightening.

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