Master Plumber January/February 2017

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2017

New building plan strategy for Queensland 2017 - A year for change

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contents

Contents 05 Editor’s Note 06 Perspective 07 President’s Message 08 Industry News 09 Technical: Gas Main Struck by Contractor

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Minister Sets New QBC Board Reform Task to Focus on People

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Technical: Changes to the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme for Plumbers

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Health & Lifestyle: Famous Faces of the Trade – Ozzy Osbourne Take Care of Yourself: Knee Injury Prevention

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News: MPAQ President Receives Churchill Fellowship

Backflow Prevention Head Loss – What can be done to reduce the pain?

QBCC: Start the New Year with a Record-keeping ‘Spring Clean’ Feature: New Building Plan Business: Don’t Risk Losing Your Domain Name Business: Does Your Business Process Card Payments Securely?

Health & Lifestyle: Did You Know? NASA has a Space Poop Challenge Avoid Heat Stress and Dehydration this Summer

Feature: Construction Professional of the Year Goes To… Superannuation: Personal Insurance Cover – 7 Important Things to Consider Legal: ABCC Restored Workplace Relations Team – What we do for you!

A NEW Approach to Training

25 26 27 28 29

Training Calendar

MPAQ Corporate Supporters

Members Out and About MPAQ Out and About Social Suppliers: Product & Supplier News

30 2017 Events 32 News & Upcoming 33 Membership: MPAQ Member Benefits 34 New Members and Milestones 35 The Supporters of Our Industry

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contents MASTER PLUMBER

PUBLISHED BY Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland: 243 Bradman Street, Acacia Ridge Q 4110 P: 07 3273 0800 F: 07 3273 0873 E: info@mpaq.com.au W: www.mpaq.com.au

THE TEAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Penny Cornah P: 07 3273 0800 E: penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au.

EDITOR & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Lisa Hilton P: 07 3273 0800 E: lisa.hilton@mpaq.com.au PRINT & DESIGN Foyer Printing P: 07 5598 1005 E: info@foyerprinting.com.au

MPAQ COUNCIL PRESIDENT Kelvin Slade P: 0417 787 284 E: sales@sladebrosplumbing.com.au VICE PRESIDENTS Kent Vickers P: 0418 883 999 E: kvickers@qigs.com.au Patrick Robertson P: 07 3276 8833 E: info@rpgs.com.au PAST PRESIDENT Bob Kimlin P: 07 4772 6308 / 0419 744 383 E: bobk@live.com.au TREASURER John Salmon P: 07 3846 5366 E: john@salmonplumbing.com.au COUNCILLORS Dennis Yarrow P: 07 3277 5742 E: admin@yarrowplumbing.com.au Michael Ryan P: 3630 4744 E: mryan@beavisbartels.com.au Rob Brouwers P: 0411 413 400 E: rob@backflow.net.au Sam Hannant P: 0405 647 046 E: sam@openfire.com.au Harle Gall P: 0437 768 409 E: h.gall@laserplumbing.com.au Ben Crew P: 0418 472 430 E: BenCrew@cqplumbing.com.au

TRUSTEES Bill Watson P: 07 3273 2333 E: bill@connectorsgroup.com.au Don Nunn P: 0418 717 470 E: donnunn1950@yahoo.com.au

LIFE MEMBERS G Cottee, F Huysing, B McGrath OAM, MJ Moor, T Morris, J Porter, GC Richardson, NF Sharman, BS Soden, BD Wallace, WB Watson, R Kimlin

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEMBERS A Chapman, B McGrath OAM, T Morris, D Powell, B Wallace, R Weaver, M Wilshere DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the MPAQ, nor does the MPAQ guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers or accepts responsibility for statements they may express in this publication.

The MPAQ does not accept liability to advertisers, which may be held contrary to the Trade Practices Act 1974. The MPAQ reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend any advertisements or inserts without reason.

Editor’s Note

MAGAZINE

JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2017

Lisa Hilton Editor Welcome to the January/February 2017 edition of the Master Plumber Magazine!

New Year, New You! I love this time of year, I get to come up with new ideas on how I can make this year better than the last; it makes me feel organised. History shows I’m not great at sticking to resolutions and things don’t usually go how I plan, but every year I usually find out something different about myself through my attempts to reach my New Year goals. It makes the New Year resolution cliché worth it if I can discover more about the person that I am throughout the process.

There are some exciting things on the horizon for the plumbing and gas industry in 2017; you’ll read about them all in this edition of the Master Plumber. We have also made some changes to the content, including stories about some of our members, a new ‘Famous Faces of the Trade’ section and a few helpful tips for your health. We want to expand on this for future editions and include different topics you like reading about. We need your help; we need your stories and suggestions! If you want to contribute something for an upcoming edition, please email it through to events@mpaq.com.au. If you don’t have it written down or don’t want to write it out, give us a call and we’ll take your stories and suggestions over the phone – 07 3273 0800.

I would like to say a huge congratulations to our Executive Director, Penny Cornah and our President, Kelvin Slade who have both received some well-deserved recognition in the past few months. Penny was awarded Construction Professional of the Year at the CSQ Excellence Awards in November, and Kelvin was awarded the Churchill Fellowship to conduct research overseas on legionella. These are two very passionate people who give so much for our industry, and it’s encouraging to see them reap the rewards of their efforts, not just for themselves but for the industry as a whole. Read about their achievements on pages 20 and 21.

On another note, I’ve decided to include one of my favourite dad jokes in every edition from now on.

“I dreamed about drowning in an ocean made out of orange soft drink last night. It took me a while to work out that it was just a Fanta sea.”

You’re welcome.

Congratulations to those reaching milestones and welcome to our new members in this edition. Hope I see you out and about!

Lisa

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executive

Perspective Penny Cornah Executive Director

Welcome to 2017

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hope you had the opportunity to have a break over the Christmas period and that you are feeling recharged for the New Year.

A new year and a new Building Plan for Queensland. On Wednesday 30 November 2016 the Government made key announcements about the new Queensland Building Plan, which includes a number of reforms for the building and construction industry.

Kelvin Slade and I, along with some of our dedicated members were fortunate to attend the announcement, made by the Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, and Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon Mick de Brenni MP. The Minister outlined major reforms to the construction industry, which include the following topics: •

Security of Payments

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Queensland Home Warranty Scheme

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Plumbing and Drainage Act Review

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Licensing Reforms

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Queensland Housing Code

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Re-configuring a Lot Code

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Building Certification

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Non-Conforming Building Products

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Inclusive Communities

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Liveable Housing Design

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Sustainable Buildings

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MPAQ welcomes the announcement of the Building Plan as it includes a number of reforms that are essential for our industry. For more details please refer to pages 14 and 15.

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The Minister has also appointed the new Queensland Building and Construction Board. As Chair of the Service Trades Council, I look forward to working with the new Board for the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.

Apart from lobbying in the State arena, MPAQ also contributes to lobbying and advocacy on a National level through Master Plumbers Australia (MPA). Last year, MPA attended the second ‘Plumbing meets Parliament’ day at Parliament House in Canberra. The event was co-ordinated by the Plumbing Product Industry Group (PPIG), the peak organisation for manufacturers, importers and resellers of plumbing products.

Lobbying with politicians is important if an industry like plumbing is going to have a say on things like Water Efficiency Labelling and Standard (WELS) legislation, WaterMark certification and working with bodies such as the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).

The speakers from the day included: •

Hon Scott Morrison MP, Treasurer

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Hon Michael McCormack MP, Small Business Minister

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Hon Craig Lundy MP, Assistant Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science

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Hon Luke Hartsuyker MP, Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister

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Hon Ken Whyte MP, Assistant Minister for Aged Care & Health

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Daniel Chidgey, Standards Australia, National Sector Manager – Plumbing

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Richard McLoughlin/Dr Carol Grossman, WELS Unit, the Department of Water Resources

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Neil Savery/Kevin Newhouse, Australian Building Codes Board

MPA Representatives – Penny Cornah, Geoff Kelly, MPA WA, Noel Abercromby, MPA WA, John Stevens, MPA ACT, Murray Thomas, MPA WA and Ross Heazlewood, MPA ACT

One of the key issues raised throughout the day was Point of Sale Legislation. Point of sale requirements ensure that product manufacturers provide necessary information/ evidence to the Australian market to confirm these products are fit for purpose and meet the appropriate standards prior to sale. Point of sale has the potential to significantly reduce non-compliance of products used in the built environment and reduces risk to Australian consumers of product failure that may impact on their health and safety, as well as infrastructure. MPA looks forward to meeting further with key Federal Ministers for the betterment of the plumbing industry.

I would also like to pass on my congratulations to our President, Kelvin Slade who is a 2016 Churchill Fellow!

Kelvin is one of 106 talented Australians who will travel the world later in the year in search of new ideas, innovation and excellence. Kelvin received The Park Family Churchill Fellowship to research legionella training and implement a course to educate plumbers on infrastructure treatment.

Well done Kelvin. You can read more about it on page 20.

If you would like to discuss any other items in more detail, please call me on 07 3273 0800 or via email penny.cornah@mpaq.com.au.

executive

President

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hope that you were able to enjoy some down time with family and friends over the Christmas/New Year period and are able to start the year somewhat refreshed.

For your Association, 2016 finished the way it started, with a flurry of activity. It never really let up for the entire year with much going on in the background of our industry. Two notable events took place at the end of November 2016. Our Executive Director, Penny Cornah was awarded Construction Professional of the Year at the annual Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) Excellence Awards. An award well earned and deserved

by Penny. There were three Councillors and three senior staff members at the event to celebrate with Penny, and we are all very proud of her achievement.

Less than a week later, the Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon Mick de Brenni MP launched the Queensland Building Plan discussion paper, with the centrepiece of the

BUSSQ BUILDING SUPER

RANKED

paper the issue of security of payments to subcontractors in the construction industry. The launch took place at a construction site in Brisbane with the Premier, Annastacia Palaszcuk MP in attendance with a number of MPAQ members, who listened to what the Premier and the Minister had to say. Refer to pages 14 and 15 for more details on the discussion paper. There would be very few contractors who haven’t experienced a battle or legal fight over contractual payment at some point in time.

MAGAZINE

Hello and welcome to 2017

PLUMBER

Kelvin Slade

MASTER

President’s Message

The affect on the sub contractor’s business and life can be devastating. In the few days leading up to the launch of the Building Plan I had a couple of very interesting conversations on this very subject, one of which was with a business banker.

The bank in question has put in place some “markers” and “activity surveillance” on the accounts of builders and building companies. They are also aware that for many building companies all it takes is for one project to go bad in the year to place that business at risk of collapse. Unfortunately, in the wider community the building industry is renowned for its issues around payments. So this begs the question, why is the media, one prominent news paper in particular, putting such a negative slant on this incredibly important and necessary discussion?

At the Building Plan launch press conference there were three TV stations and at least two newspaper journalists in attendance. The coverage that night on TV was at best scant.

Questions put to the Premier at that same press conference surrounding bikie laws and parole reviews were covered more on the news that night, rather than security of payments in the building industry. To say there isn’t a problem in this area of the industry, or that it doesn’t warrant legislative change is nothing short of criminal neglect. It’s there, it’s real and it has to be dealt with.

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If someone was to ask me to prove it, well we did, on multiple occasions, from one end of the state to the other.

MPAQ had contractors lined up during the panel sessions to advise the Minister of their experiences. At the closing event of our Qld Plumbing & Gas Conference last September, Minister de Brenni MP addressed the delegates and mentioned he had already received unfavourable comment on the matter and that it had made him more determined to see this through.

Getting paid for what you are contractually owed is a legal and moral obligation. The words “legal and moral” are all too often cast aside in place of the unscrupulous business practice of finding an excuse to short pay, or even worse, non payment of invoices. The payments issue has got to be sorted so stability and confidence can be restored to the businesses that work in the construction industry. Stability and confidence ultimately lead to more investment and employment.

I look forward to change in this area.

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Happy Plumbing

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news

Industry News Residential Construction Safety – Back to Basics

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review of a current audit campaign blitzing residential developments across the state shows that most notices issued so far were for site security (63), followed by falls prevention (45) and housekeeping.

The majority of additional notices were handed out for electrical issues, particularly not complying with test-and-tag requirements.

Over the year of the campaign so far, there have been 1,418 assessments, with 208 statutory notices issued by inspectors. Of these, 87% were improvement notices and 28% were prohibition notices.

As the campaign continues, several categories are showing a slight increase in compliance. Interestingly, these have generally been those categories with lower levels of compliance initially, showing that the campaign is having the desired effect of increasing industry awareness of how to comply with health and safety laws.

The Residential construction safety – Back to basics campaign targets non-compliance in specified fundamental construction activities at residential developments. It has involved construction inspectors assessing residential development sites, with a focus on:

MPAQ’s New Website Launch MPAQ are set to introduce a new and improved website in the New Year for a better online experience!

The launch date for our new website is scheduled for March 2017 with the new page optimised for mobile users and to enhance the member experience.

We have taken on board member suggestions and feedback and we’re making a lot of improvements.

Some of the amazing improvements that will be part of our new platform include: • Enhanced experience regardless of what device you’re using • Amazing new graphics for a better visual experience

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Falls prevention (including through voids, from ladders, trestles and other work platforms)

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Using the right tools for the job

• Introduction of a search function

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Planning for safety, including preparation of Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)

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Site housekeeping

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Site security

• Improved member dashboard allowing members to alter their communication preferences, download current and previous invoices, update their Find A Master Plumber profile, view relevant notifications and heaps more!

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Site supervision

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Additional issues (e.g. electrical)

The above changes are just the start, we’ll release more improvements as we get closer to the launch date!

Make sure you keep an eye out – www.mpaq.com.au

Behind the Scenes

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For further information, you can visit www.worksafe.qld.gov.au or email constructionstrategy@justice.qld.gov.au.

• Simpler navigation and usability

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To wish our members well over the Christmas and New Year period, the MPAQ Staff completed the #mannequinchallenge with some friendly Christmas cheer.

After a busy year of running around, it was certainly a challenge to remain so still for the video. You can check it out on our Facebook and Instagram.

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2016 MPAQ Staff

technical

“It’s clear that the Queensland Building and Construction Commission has not been meeting community expectations for a long time,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Every day I get complaints from both licensees and homeowners about poor customer service, convoluted processes and a lack of transparent practices.

“In his six months in the role, Commissioner Brett Bassett has started real progress on an ambitious agenda for reform. To get the job done he needs a board that is willing to engage in reform.

Mr de Brenni said that he had met with the new Board members and clearly outlined his expectations of them.

“The Board needs to back in the work of the Commissioner to make sure that internal redesign of the QBCC achieves meaningful improvements in service delivery and culture.

“They need to restore the trust and confidence in the QBCC with home owners, licensees and the community.

“And crucially I expect them to focus on implementation of Government reforms developed through the Building Plan discussion paper announced in Parliament.”

The Queensland Building and Construction Board is made up of the below individuals: • Mr Dick Williams – Chairperson • Ms Jennifer Robertson – Deputy Chairperson • Ms Lesley Anderson • Ms Leeanne Bond • Ms Michelle James • Mr Brett Schmiming • Mr Robert Schwarten The new Queensland Building and Construction Board met for the first time on 16 December 2016.

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fencing contractor has struck a gas main which resulted in a fire and serious injury to the individual.

The contractor was installing a domestic boundary fence in Brisbane’s northern suburbs and while digging post holes with an auger, the contractor struck a 40mm PE natural gas ring main. During the subsequent repair, a flammable atmosphere was ignited causing third degree burns to a male worker, requiring hospitalisation.

Key Issues An investigation is being undertaken; however, preliminary enquiries indicate: 1. Underground services may not have been adequately identified using either Dial-Before-You-Dig or other survey techniques 2. The risk of a hazardous area was not adequately identified or managed and an ignition source was introduced into a flammable atmosphere 3. Person(s) unfamiliar with high risk environments or underground natural gas ring main repairs may have been assisting the operator with the repair

How You Can Prevent this Occurring 1. Always check and verify the location of any underground services before starting any excavation work.

• Use Dial-Before-You-Dig (telephone 1100, online or application) to check for any underground services prior to work • Check that any hard copy plans showing service locations are up-to-date • Verify the location of underground services using appropriate and calibrated detection equipment

2. Always ensure the risk of a gas exposure, explosion or fire is effectively managed.

MAGAZINE

inister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon Mick de Brenni MP has welcomed the new Queensland Building and Construction Board, setting them the task of meaningful reform of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

PLUMBER

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MASTER

Minister Sets New QBC Board Reform Gas Main Struck Task to Focus by Contractor on People • Conduct a risk assessment taking into account site-specific conditions (e.g. topography, weather, assets, equipment and workers) • Implement appropriate and effective controls ensuring the risk is minimised so far as reasonably practicable (using the hierarchy of controls) • Always establish and maintain a hazardous area - excluding any potential ignition sources and using calibrated gas detectors to monitor for gaseous atmospheres • Continuously monitor the risk and stop work or adjust controls as needed to minimise the risk to worker and the public 3. An operator must ensure that the Safety Management System effectively manages the risks such as: • Conducting a formal safety assessment is undertaken to control identified risk • Identifying and managing any specific risks that may arise as a result of interaction with contractors • Ensuring persons carrying out specific work have the minimum skills, knowledge, competencies and experience Email gassafe@dnrm.qld.gov.au for further information.

Source: Issued by the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines - Petroleum and gas safety alert no. 69, 17 November 2016, Version 1

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technical

Changes to the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme for Plumbers

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ecent changes to the law concerning what is insurable building work and premiums for the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme (the Scheme) have come into effect. The Scheme is managed by the QBCC.

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These changes apply to contracts signed on or after 28 October 2016. It is important to keep in mind that the majority of changes do not impact plumbers and drainers, because, in general, everything previously insurable under the Scheme is still insurable.

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Premiums are to be calculated according to the new premium tables, and there is a new premium table for work other than the construction of a new residence that applies to plumbers and drainers.

QBCC Commissioner, Brett Bassett, said that the new premium tables are fairer and more equitable.

“In most cases, premiums will be reduced, although in select cases premiums will increase.

“Home owners also have the option of increasing the amount of cover by paying an additional premium.”

Mr Bassett said that the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 now clearly stated that a premium must be paid for building work that is for anything attached or connected to a residence or related roofed building requiring building or plumbing approval.

This included work related to: •

the primary water supply to the residence or related roofed building

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sewerage or drainage for the residence or related roofed building, or

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stormwater discharge for the residence or related roofed building.

“This is on the proviso the work is carried out by a licensed contractor, which should always be the case with plumbing and drainage, and its insurable value is over $3,300,” he said.

Some examples of plumbing and drainage work that may be insurable include: •

installing a water tank for the primary water supply to a residence

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altering an existing water pipe for the primary water supply to a residence

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repairing a downpipe or gutter that drains stormwater from a related roofed building to a stormwater drain, and

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extending a sanitary drain that connects a residence to a main of a sewerage system.

Mr Bassett said that QBCC’s new online service, myQBCC, was also making it easier for licensees to pay premiums. “myQBCC means that licensees are able to pass on insurance premiums collected from consumers anytime and anywhere that suits them,” he said.

For more information on the home warranty reforms, visit www.qbcc.qld.gov.au.

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backflow

Backflow Prevention Head Loss What can be done to reduce the pain?

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he modern backflow preventer has revolutionised plumbing installations. It allows direct connections where once only complete breaks were acceptable. There are models that protect against both Backpressure and Backsiphonage backflow, and they can be installed out of the way as long as access is available for periodic testing and maintenance.

This simple protection against cross connections does come with a downside, which is pressure head loss across the device; and designers and plumbers must work around these restrictions.

With many water providers turning down the mains pressure so that unmetered losses through leaking pipes are minimised, the available pressure at the property boundary may not be suitable for the pressures needed inside.

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The Australian Standard AS/ NZS2845.1 2010, to which all backflow preventers are approved, stipulates minimum pressure drops for effective operation of the devices, with the highest pressure drops being seen in the reduced pressure zone device.

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The Standard calls for a minimum of 35 kPa across the first check valve and a minimum of 7 kPa across the second check valve. In theory, this is a total of 42 kPa, but with manufacturer spring tolerances and flow passages through the strainer and the valve, it is generally accepted that the effective pressure drop across the assembly is more likely between 70 and 80 kPa. In the situation where the device is containment protection for a high hazard potential, there is not a lot of option other than to

design in this potential loss and boost the pressure in the line after the device, but if the high hazard is at the connection to the appliance or process, we should be considering allowing the use of the Pressure Vacuum Breaker.

The device is manufactured for use in high hazard applications and was approved for this in Australia prior to changes in the Standard in 2003.

If installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions, the Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) still protect against a high hazard cross connection and reduce the pressure losses seen in the RPZ of 70 or 80 kPa to that of 10 or 12 kPa. The device is substantially less expensive too.

As an industry, we should be lobbying to have the PVB reinstated to the level of high hazard protection in the Standard.

Another area where we see pressure pain is fire service installations. The fire brigade needs as much available pressure as possible and every extra kilopascal they get could mean the difference between saving the property or not. We must balance this with the water provider also needing to maintain the drinking water safety, so a backflow preventer is necessary at the connection point between the fire service and the water main.

assembly or the testable single check valve. These can be fitted with a metered bypass for detection of minor flows from leaking or unauthorised use of the fire water.

Once a metered bypass is installed, the pressure drop across the devices becomes significant and this pressure drop must be allowed for in the facility design.

The problem with the Single Check Valve being used as a backflow preventer is that there is only one point of protection and should the check valve fail between tests, the protection is negated.

The difference in a double check valve is that it needs to have both checks fail for a similar situation to occur.

The USA backflow industry acknowledged this some years ago and redesigned the metered bypass characteristics on the double detector check valve so the head loss was significantly minimised.

This then meant that the fire installation could continue to have the double check valve backflow protection and give the fire brigade an additional 50 kPa of available pressure.

Again, as an industry, we should be lobbying to have the changes made to the Standard to allow for this evolution in product design and maintain the use of the double check valve backflow protection.

The issue with fire water being a contaminant is that fire services see little activity, so the quality of the water degrades as the chlorine and disinfectants dissipate, leaving the water in the fire service in a non-potable condition. Meaning it is not safe to drink.

In conclusion, the backflow preventer operates on a principle of spring loaded non-return valves that protect from the backflow of water in a pipeline, and spring loaded non-return valves need energy to open. That energy results in pressure loss in the available pressure.

The current mainstream backflow protection for use in fire services are the testable double check valve

Article written by Peter McLennan, BPAA: www.bpaa.org.au

qbcc

urge all licensees to make sure they lodge Form 4s as required,” she said.

QBCC Assistant Commissioner, Service Trades Unit, Esther Blest, said that it was important for licensees to make sure their records were well maintained.

•

all advertisements (including websites, social media and vehicles) and customer invoices contain the licensee’s name and QBCC contractor licence number, and

•

if using a trading name which is different to the name of the licence holder, the name of the licence holder must also be included in advertisements and invoices.

“This will help licensees ensure they are meeting all their requirements for issuing contracts, lodging forms (such as Form 4s for notifiable work), and ongoing inspections.

“In 2016, the QBCC’s Service Trades Unit conducted more than 500 notifiable work audits of licensees and plumbing companies, and will continue their proactive audit program in 2017.

“Failing to lodge Form 4s can result in fines of up to $731 per offence, so we

Ms Blest said that it was also a good idea to check advertising and business documents to make sure these remained compliant.

MAGAZINE

he Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) would like to encourage licensees to check their record-keeping is up to date.

She recommended making sure that:

Anyone with questions about notifiable work or advertising requirements can call the QBCC (24/7) on 139 333 or visit www.qbcc.qld.gov.au.

PLUMBER

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MASTER

Start the New Year with a Record-keeping ‘Spring Clean’

Esther Blest, QBCC Assistant Commissioner

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This course is delivered by an Electrical Contractor and designed for Plumbers. The Trainer focuses on safety and how to do the job right.

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feature

New Building Plan New Queensland Building Plan Announced

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n Wednesday 29 November 2016 the Government made key announcements about the new Queensland Building Plan, which includes a number of reforms for the building and construction industry.

The announcement, made by the Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, and Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon Mick de Brenni MP, was attended

by Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) Executive Director, Penny Cornah and President, Kelvin Slade, along with a number of MPAQ members.

F ebruary

•

Security of Payments

•

Queensland Home Warranty Scheme

•

Plumbing and Drainage Act Review

•

Licensing Reforms

•

Queensland Housing Code

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The Minister outlined major reforms to the construction industry, which include the following topics:

•

Reconfiguring a Lot Code

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2017

The Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Premier of Queensland and MPAQ Executive Director on site

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Building Certification

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Non-Conforming Building Products

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Inclusive Communities

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Liveable Housing Design

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Sustainable Buildings

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The Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, and Minister for Housing and Public Works, the Hon Mick de Brenni MP with MPAQ Council and Members

One of the most important reforms will be Security of Payments. We need to ensure that all sub contractors are paid in full and on time for the work you do.

MPAQ Executive Director, Penny Cornah said she welcomes the announcement of the Building Plan as it includes a number of reforms that are essential for our industry.

“There is not a single plumber in this state that has not experienced non payment or delayed payments; it’s utterly impossible to overstate it,” she said.

There is no doubt that the payment system in Queensland as well as its associated legislative framework must change. It is not only insolvency

that leaves subcontractors unpaid for work they have performed but it is also payment practices that are encouraged under the current legislation. These practices have led to the bankruptcy of countless small businesses while many others experience set backs, costing their business significant funds for a number of years.

MPAQ understands that these practices are not a result of any specific organisation or business, but from some of the laws we have in place which encourages such activity to thrive. This is why we are strongly supportive of reform and why we are encouraged by the government’s statements to date.

feature

MPAQ Executive Director, Penny Cornah with Mick de Brenni MP and MPAQ President, Kelvin Slade on site

in exploring options to address this issue.

As part of these reforms, there is also a need to address other issues that relate to payments to ensure all aspects of uncertainty are addressed by the Project Bank Account solution. These include variations and the use of bank guarantees.

Consultation has shown that it is rare for a subcontractor to be paid on an agreed date. The delay in payment varies from days to months. During this time head contractors, who have received the funds from the principal, are not restricted on how this money is used.

Lack of on-time payment results in the requirements for subcontractors to seek alternative funds to cover operational costs such as wages and supplies.

It is vital that the detail of PBA implementation does not enable a particular subcontractor’s payment for completed work to be held up with non-associated work undertaken by a separate subcontractor.

Another key area of reform for the plumbing industry is the review of the Plumbing and Drainage Act. Please see below a list of items that will be discussed as part of this review: • Orientation of collectors for solar heated water systems • Reform around requirements for temperature control devices • Restricting the sale of certain plumbing products that are not WaterMark certified • Facilitating the use of innovative plumbing products and solutions • Improving plumbing installations for buildings constructed on reactive and unstable soils • On-site sewage and grey water treatment plants • Facilitating off-site construction of bathroom pods • Improving the laws The department have distributed fact sheets in conjunction with the discussion paper for the topics above.

Licensing: Another Major Area of this Reform

MAGAZINE

In addition, consultation revealed concerns about ‘unfair contracts’, for example, where a termination for convenience clause can be used to avoid the BCIPA. The government is interested

PLUMBER

Possible Additional Proposals

MASTER

The government proposes to progress a package of reforms to improve security of payment for sub contractors.

These proposals include: > Project Bank Accounts (PBAs) to apply to all government projects (excluding engineering projects) valued between $1 million and $10 million from 1 January 2018. PBAs are trust accounts, proposed to be set up by the head contractor with the head contractor’s beneficiaries. Under the proposed model, these beneficiaries will be the subcontractors who contract direct to the head contractor.

The aim of PBAs is to safeguard progress payments from the head contractor to the subcontractor in the event of head contractor insolvency.

The government will roll out the PBA model to both government and private sector projects over $1 million from January 2019, subject to successful outcomes from implementation on government projects between $1 million and $10 million. > Amendments to the Building and Construction Industry Payments Act 2004 (BCIPA) are proposed to enhance the independence of the Adjudication Registry within the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

Other amendments include improvements to the claim process. > Redrafting the Subcontractors’ Charges Act 1974 (SCA) to update its language to the current drafting style. > Education programs for QBCC licensees aimed at improving financial management practices and business skills in the building and construction industry. It will also include information on the Personal Properties Security Register and the BCIPA. > Combined Acts that relate to security of payment into the one Act. The Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 contains various provisions aimed at protecting payment to subcontractors. The BCIPA and the SCA specifically provide for security of payment. It is proposed to include one piece of legislation the BCIPA and SCA provisions, as well as legislative provisions relating to PBAs so that there is a ‘one stop shop’ for security of payment provisions.

There are certain areas of the licensing framework that require reform: • Roofing (Stormwater) • Mechanical Services • Medical Gas • Continuing Professional Development • Automatic Mutual Recognition • QBCC Powers and Functions • Gas Licensing and Administration • Monetary Threshold • Plumbing – introducing a new class of licence for apprentices and also asking for feedback about removing the provisional licence for plumbing and drainage.

Other Areas of Interest in the Discussion Paper • Queensland Home Warranty Scheme • Non-conforming Building Products • Building Certification • Sustainable Buildings As part of our consultation process, MPAQ will create surveys for different topics and request members provide feedback. We will also look to co-ordinate a group of members to meet to discuss some of the key items within the discussion paper. If you would like to be part of this process, please email events@mpaq.com.au.

Consultation sessions by the Department have been proposed for 2017 and representatives from MPAQ Staff will attend as many as possible.

We would encourage all members to read the discussion paper and attend your local consultation session to have your say. After consultation with members, MPAQ will prepare a submission.

To view a copy of the Queensland Building Plan discussion paper, please visit our website www.mpaq.com.au.

15

business

Don’t Risk Losing Your Domain Name

Y

our domain name is one of your businesses major assets. It is often the essence of a business from which most interaction stems, therefore, it is important that you renew and protect your domain name.

On a basic level, a domain name is the address of your website; however, it has so much more value for your business.

It is often one of the things visitors remember about your site, so if you have a web address that works for you and your customers, you don’t want to lose it.

Your domain name also becomes part of your email address. Emails have great importance in modern business communication. Whether you’re communicating with internal stakeholders, customers, vendors or suppliers, your domain name plays an important part of that process. If your domain expires, not only will you lose your email address but you will also lose your emails.

So don’t lose control of one of your businesses greatest assets by forgetting to renew your domain. It’s easy!

Most domain hosts have easy renewal processes, and reminders are usually sent out. Make sure you update your contact details with your domain hosts and keep an eye out for email reminders.

Losing your domain can be a very costly mistake, and you don’t want it falling into someone else’s hands after you’ve made a domain that people can’t forget.

If you need any help or clarification, please contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800.

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to Downtown Toyota

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JANUARY

See Fleet Consultant Andrew Tulip for your best deal today The Zip Indu stries trade display

Downtown Toyota

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2016

downtowntoyota.com.au 16 *Excluding special edition models. Must be a paid member of the Master Plumbers Association of Queensland to receive Gold Fleet Discounts. For full terms, conditions and exclusions visit www.downtowntoyota.com.au

business MASTER

What are the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards?

The PCI DSS are broken up into 6 groups that represent security best practices:

PCI DSS are a set of requirements that make it easier for you to ensure your customers’ card information is always secure.

1. Build and maintain a secure network • Use a firewall on your network and PCs to protect cardholder data.

• Change default passwords on hardware and software.

These standards include how you: •

take a payment online

•

handle a card number read to you over the phone

•

handle a card number received in a letter or email

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards 12 Key Requirements

MAGAZINE

f your business accepts, processes, transmits or stores cardholder data, then you’re required to comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). Meeting these standards will ensure you protect your customers’ information.

PLUMBER

Does Your Business Process Card Payments Securely?

I

2. Protect cardholder data • Put together strategies to protect any cardholder data you store.

• Make sure the data is encrypted if it’s being transmitted across open, public networks, or being used for authentication.

As a business owner, it is important to understand these standards and apply security controls in your business to prevent a security breach.

Who must comply?

All Australian businesses that accept card payments need to be PCI compliant, regardless of business size. You can’t be partially compliant. The level of compliance your business needs to show will depend on how many card payments you process each year.

Benefits of being PCI compliant Having a strong, up-to-date security plan in place is not only good for your business, but also for your peace of mind.

Ensuring you follow the PCI DSS in your business will: •

reassure your potential customers that their card details are secure when they make card payments to you

•

maintain customers’ trust in your business, which enhances your business’ reputation

•

show your ongoing commitment to improve the shopping experience for your customers and a genuine desire to protect their data

•

prevent others from accessing your payment system networks and stealing cardholder data

If your customers are confident their security is protected when doing business with you, it will increase customer loyalty to your business and drive repeat sales!

3. Maintain a vulnerability management program • Make sure that all software that you are using is kept upto-date, including your anti-virus software and that new versions or updates are installed to address vulnerabilities.

• Develop and maintain secure connections and secure systems.

4. Implement strong access control measures • Only allow access to cardholder data when it’s required.

• Always provide employees with their own unique login credentials (user name and password) to core systems.

• Restrict physical access to cardholder data. Do not store any sensitive cardholder data on your computer or on paper.

5. Regularly monitor and test networks • Track and monitor all access to your network resources and cardholder data.

• Regularly test security systems and processes.

6. Maintain an Information Security Policy • Maintain a policy that addresses information security.

Find out more at the PCI Security Standards Council website www.pcisecuritystandards.org.

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17

health & lifestyle

Did You Know?

NASA has a Space Poop Challenge G oing to the bathroom in zero-gravity can be a tricky task — and NASA wants help to make it a little bit easier for its astronauts.

We can put a man on the moon but we can’t deny our bodily functions, no matter who you are. So the world’s leading space agency has put up a $US30,000 ($40,300) award for anyone who can come up with the most innovative “space poop” solution.

Sure it’s a little less glamorous than NASA’s regular work, but what’s more important than keeping astronauts regular?

The problem is, when on board a spacecraft, zipped up in a spacesuit, with no toilet in sight and a crew of other astronauts around it can be a little difficult to relieve yourself.

NASA has not sent astronauts beyond low-Earth orbit since the Apollo missions but now that we plan to venture into lunar orbit and far beyond, astronauts need the ability to live inside their protective space suit for a number of days at a time — raising the serious question of waste management.

According to the competition website (www.herox.com/ SpacePoop), the current solution consists of wearing nappies.

“However, the diaper is only a very temporary solution, and doesn’t provide a healthy/protective option longer than one day,” the website says.

Astronauts need a solution to this problem that works for more than a day or two.

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For instance, earlier this month the two men and one woman who packed themselves into a Russian Soyuz space capsule had to wait two full days between launching from Kazakhstan and arriving at the International Space Station before getting to use a toilet.

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But on future missions to deep space destinations like an asteroid or Mars, NASA suspects it could take up to 144 hours, or six days, to get to a proper toilet.

“While sealed, it is impossible for an astronaut to access their own body, even to scratch their nose,” NASA said.

And of course, the problem is that in weightlessness, fluids can blob up and stick to surfaces, while solids float in the air.

“You don’t want any of these solids and fluids stuck to your body for six days,” NASA said, recalling how easy babies can get diaper rash.

Currently, while at the International Space Station, astronauts use a toilet contraption that includes a vacuum and a tube to help evacuate faecal matter.

To urinate, they use a funnel attached to a hose that can be adapted for a sitting or standing position, and uses air to move urine away.

Source: Nick Whigham 28 November 2016, news.com.au

Avoid Heat Stress and Dehydration this Summer A safety manager working on a major construction project has stressed the importance of worker hydration, heat stress management and education.

Freo Group HSE Manager, Warwick Roe emphasised the importance of electrolytes in preventing the potentially deadly condition of hyponatremia, resulting from the overconsumption of water which dilutes blood sodium levels.

“We did have a case of hyponatremia last summer and other companies working on site also had a few cases.”

Speaking of the 2015 incident, Warwick said the affected worker had been working in extremely hot conditions and had drunk around 10 litres of water throughout the day.

“Fortunately he rang the medical centre in camp and they were able to come and get him. He was in quite a bad way and required urgent medical attention.”

The post incident investigation found the man could not quench his thirst no matter how much he drank, a key indicator that something is not right.

Heat stress is another issue to be aware of, where workers with poor diet and physical fitness are most at risk. Training and education is critical to managing risks, and employers should be implementing hydration and heat stress management programs into daily routines.

For tips and advice on how you can implement a program, please contact MPAQ Technical Services on 07 3273 0800.

Article source: Tom Haynes, Judos Media on behalf of THORZT (www.thorzt.com)

health & lifestyle

Lose Weight Experts calculate that one pound of body weight is equal to between three and seven pounds of extra weight on your knees.

So losing even just a few pounds can make all the difference.

There are many knee injury prevention exercises that can be used to fortify the knee joint by improving its strength, stability and mobility. So give your knees their best chance by trying out a few of these simple exercises:

MAGAZINE

Exercise

PLUMBER

Carrying a little bit of extra weight means that you are putting undue stress on your joints, particularly your knees.

MASTER

Take Care of Yourself: Knee Injury Prevention

1. Leg Lift: Lie on your side with your elbow on the floor.

Lift your upper leg about a foot and return to the starting position (repeat 20-30 on each side) 2. Lateral Step Up with Kick: Stand with your left side to a step that’s 8-12 inches high. Step up with your left foot, driving the right foot in the air so it’s level with your waist (repeat 8-12 on each side) 3. Hip Lift: Balance on your right foot (use a wall for balance).

With your left knee bent, drop the left hip and lift it up. Try not to bend the left leg (repeat 15-20 on each side)

K

nee injuries are one of the biggest problems in the industry. When performing such physically demanding work everyday, a plumber’s body has to deal with extra strains and knocks than the average person, and the knees take the worst of it.

Some of the main causes of knee injuries for tradies in construction include hazardous manual handling, body stressing, and falls, trips and spills.

So how can you protect your knees, prevent injuries to them and ensure that you keep them healthy for many years to come?

Knee Pads It might sound simple—that’s because it is. Ask yourself this: how much time do you spend on your knees each day? Now consider the weight and impact that is being focused on only your knee caps each time. Impact to the knees is unavoidable in this industry, so do what you can to offer your knees as much protection as possible and, hopefully, prevent serious injuries later.

Famous Faces of the Trade Ozzy Osbourne

4. Step Down: Stand on a step on your right foot. Lower your left leg toward the floor, making sure the knee of your right leg is centred over your foot (repeat 10 on each side) 5. Bodyweight Squat: Stand upright with your feet hip width apart and your toes pointing forward. With your back straight, slowly squat downwards. Aim for your thighs to be parallel to the ground. Straighten your legs to return to starting position (repeat 3 sets of 10 repetitions) 6. Sitting Knee Extension: Sit on the floor with one knee straight and the other bent at 90 degrees. Place a rolled up towel under your straight knee. Keeping your toes pointing upwards, clench your quads and slowly lift your foot off the floor while pushing the back of your knee into the towel. Hold for 10 seconds and slowly lower (repeat 10 on each leg)

Don’t Ignore Pain Pain isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s your body telling you that you have pushed it too far. Many people brush off knee pain when they first start to experience it and hope that it will go away.

Early diagnosis is key to preventing more severe and irreversible damage, so get it checked out as soon as you can.

Take the time to look after your body and your body will look after you!

Before he rose to fame as the front man for Black Sabbath, and before the popularity of reality show The Osbournes, Ozzy Osbourne tried his hand as an apprentice plumber, amongst other trades.

Osbourne grew up in a working class family in Birmingham, England. It was his parent’s opinion that if you had a trade, you’d be alright. So at the age of 15, Osbourne dropped out of school and took up the tools. But it didn’t last long. When that didn’t work out he took to crime and found himself in jail.

But they say everything happens for a reason, and while being a plumber might not have worked out for Ozzy Osbourne, he soon found his way to fame and fortune as part of one of the most influential heavy rock bands of all time.

19

news

MPAQ President Receives Churchill Fellowship Congratulations to MPAQ President, Kelvin Slade, who is a 2016 Churchill Fellow!

Kelvin is one of 106 talented Australians who will travel the world in late 2017 in search of new ideas, innovation and excellence. Kelvin received The Park Family Churchill Fellowship through the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust to research legionella training and implement a course to educate plumbers on infrastructure treatment.

The aim of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust is to provide an opportunity for Australians to travel overseas to conduct research in their chosen field that is not readily available in Australia. It also aims to reward proven achievement of talented and deserving Australians with further opportunity in their pursuit of excellence for the enrichment of Australian society.

Kelvin’s Project Description To investigate methodology, policy and practices around the management, detection and treatment of Legionella in building hot and cold water systems, with the view to developing an accredited training program to educate and train the plumbing industry in relation to Legionella bacteria, its risks and affects on plumbing systems.

There is currently no formalised training available in Australia to educate plumbers about this bacteria. Detection, monitoring and control of this particular bacteria in hot

Kevin Slade, MPAQ President

and cold water systems requires specialised knowledge of not only how the bacteria reacts and grows in certain environments, but also the methodology used to treat and control it in plumbing systems. Of particular concern are the plumbing systems in private health care, aged care and child care facilities.

Well done Kelvin and good luck!

You can learn more about the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust by visiting their website at www.churchilltrust.com.au.

3 ways Cbus is building super futures for plumbers in Queensland 1.

Investing in property and development projects through our wholly owned subsidiary Cbus Property1, creating jobs and delivering returns

2.

Easy administration for employers, with online options to join Cbus and pay employees’ super

3.

Industry–specific super products for members, including insurance cover, financial advice and free access to the Cbus smartphone app

Contact Glen for your business super needs Glen Halkerston

Business Development Manager, QLD

0447 113 282

glen.halkerston@cbussuper.com.au

Cbus Property commercial project, 1 William Street, Brisbane

Cbus Property Pty Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cbus and has responsibility for the strategic performance and management of all Cbus direct property developments and investments.

This information is about Cbus. It doesn’t take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own business needs and objectives before making any financial decisions.

Read the Cbus Employer Handbook and other relevant documents to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au for a copy.

Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.

1

feature MASTER PLUMBER MAGAZINE

Construction Professional of the Year Goes To…

P

enny Cornah, Executive Director of the Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland took out the Civil Contractors Award for Construction Professional of the Year at the Construction Skills Queensland Excellence Awards Night on Friday 25 November.

This prestigious award was presented to Penny in front of a crowd of over 600 industry peers, recognising her as a leader in Queensland’s construction industry.

The Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) is a peak industry body representing plumbing contractors throughout Queensland from sole operators to medium sized plumbing businesses through to large contracting firms. MPAQ represent over 1,300 members organisations across Queensland, which equates to around 4,000 plumbing professionals.

Damien Long and Penny Cornah

MPAQ is one of Queensland’s most influential trade associations representing an industry estimated to be valued at in excess of $11 billion with more than 16,000 individual licensed plumbers. MPAQ is in a position to highlight the pivotal role that plumbing professionals play in the living standards of all Australians.

MPAQ President, Kelvin Slade stated that Penny is clearing the way for many women to follow in her footsteps, and she should be proud of what she has achieved for herself and all women in the industry.

“Penny has been employed with the Association for more than ten years and has overseen its growth, development and rapid evolution to meet changing industry, community and technology demands”, he said.

Penny was appointed as a Director to Master Plumbers Australia Ltd in 2012 and has recently taken over the Secretariat role for Master Plumbers Australia. Penny has recently been appointed as a Director of QLeave and also the Chair of the newly formed Service Trades Council, a role in which she is humbled to be given.

With such a pivotal and high profile role, Penny identifies her key responsibility as heading the organisation that is the conduit between protecting community health and the environment. Penny is a strong leader in a male dominated industry and has earned great respect throughout the plumbing community. She has developed strong relationships within the Queensland Government ensuring the industry’s voice is heard at the highest levels.

Visit the Construction Skills Queensland Facebook Page to see photos from the event!

21

superannuation

Personal Insurance Cover: 7 Important Things to Consider When will your cover ‘Lock in’ the level of D 4 lapse?

7 your insurance cover o you have personal insurance cover? Is your insurance policy held through your super fund or externally? And how does all of this affect your level of cover?

While you may have superannuation and retirement planning under control, figuring out your personal insurance needs can be tricky.

The following considerations can help you decide whether to take out personal insurance – Death, Total & Permanent Disability (TPD) or Income Protection (IP) – through a super fund or through an external policy.

1

How much cover do you have – will it be enough for your family’s needs?

In the event that something happens to you and you’re no longer able to make a financial contribution to your family, would your insurance cover take care of mortgage repayments, your children’s education and sustain your family in the lifestyle they are currently accustomed to?

Checking your level of cover can give you peace of mind and enable you to upgrade or switch if needed.

2

What sort of cover do you have? Death/TPD/IP?

2017

Many industry super funds offer a group life insurance arrangement. This is where the fund’s insurer accepts risk for a large group of members and offers the fund discounted rates on insurance premiums.

These discounts are then passed onto the fund’s members in the form of competitively priced premiums.

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Many people are covered for Death and Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) but don’t realise that they aren’t covered for Income Protection (IP), which is classified differently to Death and TPD and is designed to substitute the claimant’s income while they are unable to work due to injury or illness.

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Have you sourced the best price for your level of cover?

Should you choose insurance outside super, you may be exposed to agent’s fees and commissions, which can add to the cost.

Insurance cover may cease when: >

you cancel the policy

>

a claim is made against the policy and a benefit is paid out

>

the insured person reaches a certain age

>

premiums are not paid up to their due date, or if the policy is held within your super, there are insufficient funds in the super account to sustain the deduction of premiums

>

an employer ceases to make contributions for their employees. This is the case only for some funds, while others may have accountbased premiums, which means the premiums are deducted automatically from the super account, as long as there is money in the account.

5

Be wary of insurance premiums reducing your retirement benefit

For most people, super is their number one retirement plan. If you don’t want your retirement benefit (super account) to reduce due to insurance premiums, you could consider making additional contributions to help fund the amount that will be deducted for insurance premiums.

6

You may be able to transfer your insurance between funds

Some funds will allow you to transfer your insurance arrangements from another fund. This is helpful if the member has gone through the process of completing and providing medical information to adjust or increase their insurance.

Some default insurance arrangements provided by super funds lower the amount of cover as the member ages; this is because the level of risk for insuring the member increases with their age. One way to stop this from happening is to ‘lock in’ your cover to ensure that your amount of insurance cover doesn’t decrease as you age.

Is your insurance cover enough? Ask BUSSQ to help you…

Life is nothing if not unpredictable. BUSSQ offers a number of services to assist you and your family in the event of an emergency.

BUSSQ MySuper members generally have some automatic insurance cover for Death or TPD and can apply for up to $2 million in additional cover.

By upgrading to their Premium Choice product, members not only have access to an increased amount of cover in the case of death or total and permanent disablement, but can also apply for IP cover.

No matter what kind of insurance cover you require, BUSSQ offers competitive rates with personalised service to help give members and their families’ peace of mind.

Visit www.bussq.com.au for further information.

legal

The Xenophon amendments introduced a security of payments regime to the Code. This security of payments regime is still to be drafted by a working group.

The provisions are intended to protect sub-contractors by requiring head contractors to hold money in a trust type arrangement. This money will be made accessible to unpaid businesses in the subcontracting chain.

•

•

abolishing the reverse onus of proof provision relating to proceedings for unlawful industrial action and picketing. The ABCC must now establish on the balance of probabilities that the activity was carried out for a particular reason; and allowing building industry participants to tender for and be awarded Commonwealth funded building work even if they have a non-compliant agreement up until 29 November 2018.

New enterprise agreements entered into after the Code commences must comply with the Code. Still, there will be a transition period for existing enterprise agreements.

expands the definition of “building work” to include the transportation or supply of goods to building sites and offshore resources platforms

the Building Code for 2018 - which will give further Commonwealth control over the industrial practices of companies tendering for federally funded projects

•

new procurement rules - taking effect from March 2017 requiring businesses bidding for government projects worth more than $4 million to show:

creates a prohibition on organising or taking of unlawful industrial action, including unlawful picketing. Unlawful picketing will include conduct that has the purpose of preventing or restricting access to, or from, a building, or ancillary site, if the conduct’s purpose is to advance industrial claims, or is otherwise unlawful

•

expands the jurisdiction to order injunctions to stop unlawful action, including pickets

•

expands the existing offence of coercion to include superannuation and to make it explicit that action intended to force an employer to enter into an enterprise agreement is unlawful

•

prohibits specific agreements when the intention is to provide standard terms and conditions to workers across multiple employers outside of the Fair Work Act (pattern bargaining)

•

Other amendments in the law include: •

•

The law also: •

The two Bills, the Building and Construction Industry (Improving Productivity) Bill 2013 and the Building and Construction Industry (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2013 were passed with significant amendments proposed by Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party and the Nick Xenophon Team.

The Hinch amendments are transitional provisions that will allow builders with enterprise agreements that are noncompliant with the 2014 Building and Construction Code (which Code forms part of the legislation) to still bid for Commonwealth-funded projects until November 2018.

The areas of greatest likely impact on construction businesses are:

•

•

expands the power to compulsorily examine people who may have been involved in a contravention, or who could otherwise assist the ABCC in its investigations removes the limitation on the ABCC from initiating or continuing enforcement action when parties involved have settled a dispute significantly increases penalties for unlawful industrial action committed by individuals and corporate entities

MAGAZINE

The Senate has passed the Government’s legislation to re-establish the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC). Having done so, businesses within the construction industry should review their contractual arrangements with contractors and subcontractors, and any current enterprise agreements.

Of course, the principal purpose of the law is to reintroduce the ABCC as the industry regulator in place of the Fair Work Building Industry Inspectorate. The ABCC will have increased jurisdiction and powers.

PLUMBER

on-code compliant enterprise agreements can continue to tender for government work up to November 2018.

MASTER

ABCC Restored N

> how much locally-produced material they will source > how they are contributing to local employment > how they are growing local skills > the whole-of-life cost of the project, not just the build cost > that the materials they use comply with Australian product standards •

a new unlawful picketing offence designed to include conduct by any person who disrupts the supply of goods, services and labour to building sites (not just unions)

Construction industry participants will need to: •

review contractual arrangements with contractors and subcontractors to ensure issues relevant to the law are addressed

•

review relevant requirements in the Building Code and consider how they might affect their business for Commonwealthfunded building work; and

•

consider whether their current enterprise agreement complies with the Building Code, and whether re-negotiation of the enterprise agreement is necessary in preparation for the new Building Code.

McKays Solicitors will provide further updates on the effect on the legislation. If you have any further questions, please contact one of their lawyers.

Brisbane – 07 3223 5942 Gold Coast – 07 5553 8400

Mackay – 07 4963 0860 Surat Basin – 07 4668 9800

23

HR & training

Workplace Relations Team What we do for you!

R

ecently the Workplace Relations team have been contacted by MPAQ members who have been approached by Human Resource Management/ Workplace Relations Consultants wanting to sign them up (usually for a number of years) to HR/Workplace relations advice and assistance.

Did you know that your MPAQ membership already includes this valuable service! At no extra cost?!

Your primary contact for any HR queries is Kym Campbell.

Wages advice (for any role, under any Award);

•

Interpreting clauses in an Award;

•

Apprenticeship information (as well as incentives);

ith this in mind, MPAQ is making significant changes to the delivery of training, introducing a blended delivery approach in an attempt to minimise your time off the job.

Kym Campbell

•

Performance management and disciplinary issues with employees;

•

Recruitment enquires; and

•

Termination of employees.

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And did you also know that if you do have to attend any Fair Work hearings at any time, we will help you and represent you.

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Time is money…

The less time you are away from the tools the less work you are not doing…

W

What can Kym help you with?

•

A NEW Approach to Training

Blended delivery of training incorporates both online and face to face training delivery, meaning you are free to study aspects of a course when it suits your schedule and attend only those parts of a training course that must be done face to face.

In January 2017 we are rolling out the first blended delivery course CPCPWT4023A Commission & Maintain Heated Water Temperature Control Devices (TMV). The TMV course can now be studied primarily online* coupled with one day attendance for practical training.

Enrolments are now open, visit www.mpaq.com. au to register.

Kym can also work with you on more specialised assistance such as:

Please contact MPAQ’s Training Team on 07 3273 0800 for further information.

•

Reviewing and drafting of employment contracts, policies and procedures;

•

Negotiation, review and approval of workplace agreements;

*Online quotient must be completed a minimum of two days prior to the face to face training delivery date.

•

Representation in proceedings of unfair dismissal, workplace discrimination or harassment or other workplace relations and equal opportunity matters;

•

Coaching on performance management and disciplinary matters, the management of ill and injured workers and recruitment selection;

•

Assistance with termination of employment, including redundancy and transmission of business issues; and

•

Incident investigations (e.g. responding to complaints of harassment or bullying); and Provision of onsite HR/IR resources.

Kym is here to assist you with any queries you may have.

Just remember that HR advice is part of your MPAQ membership.

Please call Kym on 07 3273 0800 or e-mail kym.campbell@mpaq.com.au.

RTO : 30473

Accredited Face to Face Courses TMV**

Backflow

CPCPWT4023A - Commission & Maintain Hot & Heated Water Temperature Control Devices*

CPCPWT4022A - Commission & Maintain Backflow Prevention Devices*

Date

Location

Date

Location

31 January

Brisbane

23 - 25 January

Brisbane

14 March

Gold Coast

6 - 8 March

Gold Coast

28 March

Toowoomba

20 - 22 March

Brisbane

4 April

Brisbane

8 - 11 May & 15 - 16 May

Brisbane (Night Course***)

Service Type A Gas Appliances CPCPGS4022A - Service Type A Gas Appliances*

Date

Location

6 - 10 February

Brisbane

Carry out Work-Based Risk Control CPCPCM4011A - Carry out Work-Based Risk Control Processes

Date

Location

29 - 30 May

Brisbane

Estimate and Cost Work CPCPCM4012A - Estimate and Cost Work*

Date

Location

27 - 28 February

Brisbane

Design and Size Consumer Gas CPCPGS4011C - Design and Size Consumer Gas Installations*

Date

Location

26 - 28 April

Brisbane

* Funding Assistance may be available ** This course includes an online component that must be completed at least 2 days prior to the commencement of your course *** Backflow Night Course will be run from 4pm - 8pm over 6 nights, if enrolling in this course all nights must be attended

members out and about

Trucks for Sale Are you looking for a new truck (or two) for your business? Then look no further.

Hohl Lot of Plumbing

R

ecently, one of MPAQ’s long-standing members, Hohl Plumbing in Beaudesert was featured in the Beaudesert Times for their 70th Year anniversary!

When Les Hohl returned home from World War II, he and his wife Enid Hohl moved to Beaudesert with the aim of starting a plumbing business.

Using his back-pay from the army, Les bought a block of land in Brisbane Street next to the Railway Hotel from owner Tom Bourke.

Let’s face it: a tradie’s truck is not just a sweet ride. A tradie’s truck is a versatile machine that is a motor vehicle one minute and an office the next. It’s often a storeroom and sometimes an on-the-go-restaurant.

A truck is one of the most valuable tools in a tradie’s armoury, so you have to make sure you’re buying the right one for the job.

An MPAQ member in Brisbane is selling two vehicles that are perfectly outfitted for a plumber or gasfitter. Both trucks are in excellent condition and ready to go, so if you are a tradie looking to invest in so much more than just a truck, we have the perfect options for you.

Mazda BT50 2013 $60,000 Burpengary Jet machine and jack off tray included.

With that, Les Hohl and Co was born and this month Hohl Plumbing is celebrating 70 years in the game.

Ford F250 $60,000, Burpengary

In 1946, Mr Hohl pitched a tent on the block to get the business started while a small wooden shed was constructed.

Hohl Plumbing is still in the family and has employed some of its staff for their entire working lives.

Bruce Hohl started his apprenticeship when he was 15 years old and now at 60, he is the second generation owner of the business.

The Hohl’s say loyalty is one of the company’s most treasured values.

The company has employed three people for over 50 years and about 12 current employees have worked there for at least 20 years.

Like most towns, Beaudesert has changed a lot over the years as new industries popped up and the population grew.

JANUARY

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F ebruary

2017

“In the old days it was a lot of work on farms and houses. The dairy industry used to be a big part of our business,” Bruce Hohl said.

26

These days Hohl Plumbing is more focused on large commercial plumbing, with staff travelling around Queensland and New South Wales.

“Some customers don’t take no for an answer, so we’ve been to Dubbo and Mackay and all over the place,” he said.

Mr Hohl said the kick-start to the commercial side of Hohl Plumbing was winning a contract to help with construction of the Expo 88 facility in Brisbane.

One of the biggest changes that happened at Hohl Plumbing was the sale of their original site to make way for Beaudesert Central in 2006.

Since then, the business has divided into two sections, a retail shop in Brisbane Street and the workshop and storage yard at Enterprise Drive.

Source: Beaudesert Times, 18 May 2016

Prices for both vehicles are negotiable, and the owner is eager to sell these vehicles to a plumber or gasfitter.

To register your interest in either of these vehicles, please email Annie Mole at tennisaddict23@hotmail.com.

If you would like more information about the trucks, please call Eric on 0478 008 180.

Terdanator Donates Time for Mental Health Services In November, MPAQ member Trevor Latham from Terdanator Plumbing joined forces with Triple M’s Marto and Ed, Michael and Carlene Duffy from Channel Nine’s The Block, and an army of more than 100 helpers to renovate the Nundah Cottages as part of the Channel Nine Telethon.

The renovation will allow the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, based at Nundah Cottages, to provide Queensland infants, young children and their families with the best possible mental health care services in a warm and welcoming environment.

None of the incredible renovations at Nundah Cottages would have been possible without the hard work and generous donation of labour and time given by Trevor and more than 90 other dedicated tradespeople and businesses.

You can read more about the project at www.9telethon.com.au.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at events@mpaq.com.au and we might feature it in an upcoming edition!

MPAQ out and about

Penny Cornah, MPAQ’s Executive Director had the privilege to attend the forum and provided plumbers with an industry update on the following: • • • • • • •

Changes to the Home Warranty Scheme Licensing Review Security of Payments Review Non-Conforming Products Service Trades Council Review of the Plumbing and Drainage Act / Reg / Code Changes to Licence Requirements for Provisional Plumbers Plumbers also had the opportunity to hear from: • Ray Smith, Institute of Plumbing Inspectors Queensland • Gary Stick, Queensland Building and Construction Commission • Steven Moore, Storm Plastics

D

resses and suits, horses and jockeys, bubbles and beer.

Does that not make a fantastic recipe for a great day out?

MAGAZINE

Over 50 plumbers attended the Warwick Plumbing Forum last November. Glen Reid and Wayne Nielsen from Southern Downs Regional Council facilitated this plumbing forum and plumbers from the Warwick, Stanthorpe and Toowoomba regions attended this important industry event.

PLUMBER

Partners in Plumbing Melbourne Cup Luncheon

MASTER

Warwick Plumbing Forum November 2016

On 1 November 2016, MPAQ held its second Melbourne Cup Luncheon for our ever growing Partners in Plumbing Group in Brisbane. The Heritage Room at Cloudland played the perfect host with two long banquet tables running the length of the room. Fake vines, pink toffee apples and white tiffany chairs adorned the tables and set the scene of elegance.

Guests were welcomed with cocktails including peach mules and mojitos whilst the big screens in the room showed the race preparations. Penny Cornah, Executive Director of MPAQ started off the day by highlighting the important role that partners of the business play in our industry, by being the predominant driving force of the business in most cases. She discussed how these types of events can bring like-minded women together and provide a unique opportunity to network and learn with ideas through one another.

The event was proudly supported by BUSSQ, Dial Before You Dig and Rinnai. A special mention also goes to Tappr who ran the sweeps and bets for attendees.

Russell Bergman, Ray Smith, Scott Cobon and Gary Stick

The focus of the evening was a highly important and topical subject of articulated joints used in sanitary drains and stormwater drains in reactive soils.

Thank you to Southern Downs Regional Council for co-ordinating this event and thank you to the major sponsors for the evening refreshments: Steven Moore (State Manager, Storm Plastics) and George Le Bherz (Branch Manager, Reece Warwick).

Penny Cornah, MPAQ with George Le Bherz, Reece and raffle winner, Glenn Webb The Panel L to R, Wayne Nielsen, Ray Smith, Penny Cornah, Russell Bergman, Gary Stick and Steven Moore

Special thanks to all the plumbers who attended, MPAQ looks forward to attending future events in this region.

BUSSQ, as the Guest Speaker Sponsor introduced the lovely Rebecca Senyard from The Plumbette, who spoke about her background in fashion, plumbing and blogging. Rebecca provided a quirky twist to upcoming trends in fashion and how women’s shapes are actually quite similar to that of plumbing paraphernalia – who knew!

The opening activity, sponsored

by Rinnai was a huge success Lauren teams were tasked Sarah and lia, Cassie, ah T , with locating puzzle im K Melissa, pieces to create a Rinnai Hot Water System in the fastest time possible. Attendees were very competitive and now some would say ‘qualified’ in installing a Rinnai Hot Water System (we might leave it to the licensees, hey ladies?!).

A fashion parade was later run, sponsored by Dial Before You Dig. There was strutting, risqué dancing and some shy shuffles, which turned out to be the perfect end to what MPAQ hopes to be a long running event in the future.

Thank you once again to our sponsors and to all those that attended!

You can check out the upcoming Partners in Plumbing events for 2017 on the MPAQ Website (www.mpaq.com. au) or email events@mpaq.com.au to become part of the group and receive a monthly newsletter and regular updates on upcoming events!

27

social

Partners in Plumbing Melbourne Cup Luncheon

Samanth a Bomh of and K Yarrow ylie Jon Plumbin es, g with R Senyard ebecca , The Plu mbette

Cassie Nutley, Kim Andrews and Tahlia Joseph, Chris Nutley Contractors

se, arol Pea no and C ia g g o B Jen ig re You D Dial Befo

Gary Lemmon and Liam Butterworth, Rinnai with Katie Bell, Reece

Australian Industry Trade College ICE Awards Dinner

Alf Jackson, Alix Crawford, the winner of the Plumbing Apprentice of the Year and Penny Cornah

Alf Jack son, Ali x Crawfo winner o rd, the f the Plu mbing A of the Y pprentic ear and e Andrew Pevats, AITC

To check out all the photos from these events, visit the MPAQ Facebook Page

Damian Kavanag h, Obsid Christop ian Plum her Contr bing, Jas acting, G on Parks and Pen reg Castl , ny Corna e, Obsid h, MPAQ ian Plum bing

ng with Isle Plumbi Tony Hall, n, Reece Shane Gordo

Darryl Madden, Iplex, Emily Lane-Chen, Reece with Scott Rainbow, Vinidex

JANUARY

/

F ebruary

2017

MPAQ Major Contractors End of Year Function

28

David Santamaria, Zurn, Michael Ryan, Beavis and Bartels, Martin Hollywood, Hollywood Plumbing and Chris Hastings, Zurn

am Hastie, Den and Dennis e g bing ed m H lu e Jaym ard, Isle P h Peter Att it w ic ul ra Hyd

Les O’Keefe and Paul Schloss, Wurtulla Plumbing

new products

C

Enware has just release their latest product in the Sanitary Ware Range, a modern and minimalist rimless toilet suite which is robust and manufactured to commercial quality but has a timeless design which will suit office washrooms and luxury hotel bathrooms, through to ensuites and independent living applications.

Its rimless flush toilet is far more hygienic than a standard toilet, rimless means basically it’s easy to clean with no rims or holes for germs to collect.

4 Star WELS rated for water saving with every flush makes it perfect for a variety of places including office washrooms and hotel bathrooms.

Being a wall faced design the toilet sits flush against the wall creating a smooth finish and streamlined look. Supplied with a soft close hard white seat which allows the seat to gently lower when closing eliminating any seat slam, both the ideal solution for ensuites.

MAGAZINE

ompact and slim line, easy to clean and an economical WELS rating plus seating options are all things to think about when installing toilet suites.

PLUMBER

Enware Wall Faced Rimless Close-coupled Toilet Suite

MASTER

Product & Supplier News

The Enware Rimless Toilet has been designed to match Enware’s comprehensive range of wash basins and adaptable vanities for a complete solution. Check out their website for more technical details: www.enware. com.au/news/rimless-toilet.

MPAQ Corporate Supporters KINCROME Tools & Equipment

K

incrome Australia Pty. Ltd, trading as ‘KINCROME Tools & Equipment’ is one of Australia’s leading tool suppliers to the automotive, industrial, hardware and retail industries.

Established in 1987, KINCROME is an Australian owned and operated family company. Experiencing phenomenal growth over the years, they are committed to bringing new products and services to market and remaining in the tool industry for the long term, priding themselves on product innovation, quality and customer service and support. KINCROME Tools & Equipment proudly distributes the following quality brands: •

KINCROME Professional Quality Tools

•

SUPATOOL Premium

•

FINKAL

•

LISLE

•

GORILLA

Visit www.kincrome.com.au for further information, or call them on 1300 657 528.

InSinkErator Food Waste Disposers

I

nSinkErator’s focus is on championing a new way of thinking about food waste, and the plumbing sector plays an important role in this change. They want to lead a paradigm shift towards an alternative to living with food waste and engender a sense of individual responsibility for food waste management.

With the understanding that each person can make a difference, they hope to position food waste disposers as a valuable solution to the global problems associated with sending food to landfill. It is a fact that every one tonne of food waste that goes to landfill gives off 743kg of Green House Gas Emissions. InSinkErator Food Waste Disposers aid in the process of capturing Methane gas from food scraps at appropriate Wastewater Treatment Plants where it can be converted into renewable energy.

InSinkErator offers training to plumbers to help them understand how their clients can benefit from food waste disposers, the environmental role these units can play and how their business can benefit from expanding their service offering.

For more information email sales@insinkerator.com or call 1300 136 205.

29

events

2017 Events Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expos (BEXPO) – Across Qld

Activity Days – Across Qld

8:00am - 9:30am

10:00am - 3:30pm

MPAQ are bringing the Expos once again to all the regions in Queensland, however 2017 will see these run as Breakfast Expos instead of in the evening, and will be on the same day as golf, bowls or brewery tours. The info sessions normally included in the Expo will not be included this year, they will be held as a separate event.

Snapshot

We ran golf days in most of the regions in 2016, and this year we’re having a combination of golf days, bowls days and beans/ brewery tours which will commence straight after the bexpo!

•

2017 F ebruary /

Network and catch up with suppliers, as well as other local plumbers and gasfitters

•

Unearth new products, trade tips and networks!

•

Free brekky burger and coffee

•

•

Gold coin donation on entry to go towards Charity

Food and drinks included in ticket prices

•

Prizes and competitions with heaps of giveaways!

This year’s Plumbing & Gas Industry awards night is about unmasking excellence, with nominations open until 3 April 2017! With over 500 attendees each year for this event, it’s the best opportunity for you to be recognised for the hard work you do.

Snapshot •

• •

Award categories are applicable to apprentices, plumbers and gasfitters, hydraulic consultants, businesses, business individuals, women in the industry and many more!

Nominations are FREE and easy to do – visit www.mpaq.com.au to nominate Awards night includes 3-course meal, drinks package and entertainment

Plumbing & Gas Summit Brisbane 8:00am - 5:00pm

Breakfast 7:00am - 9:00am Golf 10:00am - 4:30pm

Info Seminars – Across Qld

One of the most important days of the year, World Plumbing Day is celebrated on 11 March every year, every where.

Take the opportunity to advance yourself and your business at this event, with key topical speakers, product and service training sessions and the biggest expo of the industry, all in the one place!

2:00pm - 7:00pm

Snapshot

The info seminars will provide your local region the opportunity to participate in panel sessions with industry bodies such as the QBCC, Service Trades Council and local councils, as well as learn from manufacturers and service providers through product and service training programs.

Key speakers will also be presenting on current topical subjects to help you learn and develop.

•

MPAQ will be hosting a sit down breakfast with a special guest speaker, followed by the opportunity to keep celebrating with a round of golf! Previous years have seen over 330 attendees for the breakfast and over 100 players for the golf day. Come along to celebrate the importance of your industry!

JANUARY

7:00pm - Midnight

Snapshot

World Plumbing Day Breakfast & Golf Day Brisbane

30

Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards - Brisbane

Snapshot •

•

Plated breakfast in the morning with keynote speaker Opportunity to donate funds for a nominated charity at the event

•

Networking opportunity with various individuals

•

Golf includes 18 holes of golf, played four-ball Ambrose

•

Lunch, drinks and nibbles at prize ceremony included in ticket cost

•

Prizes for winning teams and competitions

Snapshot •

Panel Q & A sessions with industry bodies

•

Keynote speakers on topical industry issues

•

Product and/or service training opportunities for professional development

•

Networking function with drinks and nibbles after sessions

•

• •

Breakfast Expo in the morning – open to all of industry!

Keynote speakers and industry bodies/regulators presenting on topical issues within the industry such as legionella, non-conforming products, etc.

Product and service training sessions Networking function at the end of the event with drinks and nibbles provided

Partners in Plumbing Events - Brisbane Various dates and times For the partners in the industry, there will be various events to assist you in connecting with other partners in the industry, discovering new ways to streamline business processes and enjoy social opportunities with like-minded people!

Snapshot • • •

Wine and cheese tasting social event in March Networking Race Day event in May Two day retreat with business coach in August

events

Date

Friday 3 March

World Plumbing Day Breakfast and Golf

Friday 10 March

Partners in Plumbing - Race Day

Saturday 27 May

Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards

Friday 21 July

Partners in Plumbing - Retreat

Thursday 24 - Friday 25 August

Plumbing & Gas Summit

Thursday 12 October

Melbourne Cup Networking Luncheon

Tuesday 7 November

MAGAZINE

Partners in Plumbing - Wine and Cheese Tasting

PLUMBER

Brisbane

MASTER

Events

2017

Cairns Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 9 June

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Friday 9 June

Plumbing & Gas Info Seminar

Tuesday 28 November

Fraser Coast Plumbing & Gas Info Seminar (Bundaberg)

Thursday 10 August

Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 8 September

Plumbing & Gas Industry Bowls Day

Friday 8 September

Gold Coast Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 4 August

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Friday 4 August

Mackay Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 12 May

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Friday 12 May

Plumbing & Gas Info Seminar

Thursday 26 October

Rockhampton Plumbing & Gas Info Seminar

Thursday 27 April

Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 18 August

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Friday 18 August

Sunshine Coast Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 2 June

Plumbing & Gas Industry Beans and Brew Tour

Friday 2 June

Toowoomba Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 19 May

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Friday 19 May

Townsville Plumbing & Gas Breakfast Expo

Friday 24 March

Plumbing & Gas Industry Golf Day

Friday 24 March

Plumbing & Gas Info Seminar

Thursday 15 June

Visit www.mpaq.com.au under the Events Page for further information on these events!

31

news & upcoming

Water Efficiency Certificate Books Available

M

PAQ members can now purchase Water Efficiency Certificate books (50 forms – duplicate) to utilise when landlords request a certificate to be completed, in order to charge rental tenants for water usage.

What are the Water Efficiency Certificates?

Water Efficiency Certificates are required for a property where the landlord wishes to charge the tenant for water usage. Under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008, the tenant may be required to pay an amount for all of the water consumption charges payable for the premises for a period only if the premises are water efficient during the period.

In order to meet the water efficiency requirements, a Water Efficiency Certificate is issued against the dwelling, confirming that the tested fixtures meet the minimum requirements.

Fixtures that are required to be water efficient are: • Kitchen taps – Max 9 lpm • Basin taps – Max 9 lpm • Showers – Max 9 lpm • Laundry taps – Max 9 lpm • Toilets – 3l ½ flush and 6l full • Bath tubs are exempt (fill for use) It is recommended that rented dwellings are recertified prior to the commencement of each new lease agreement.

You can purchase these books by calling MPAQ on 07 3273 0800 to make an order over the phone, or through the MPAQ website (www.mpaq.com.au) under ‘Shop Online’.

WATER METER ASSEMBLY INNOVATIVE PATENTED DESIGN

JANUARY

/

F ebruary

2017

FAST, SIMPLE INSTALLATION

32

Ball Valves • Fast, simple installation • Integrated coupling design • Leak point reduction

Water Meter • Itron TD8 (optional) • Proven reliability • Long term accuracy

Meter Box • Patented “snap-fit” assembly • Perfect component alignment • Internal quick release “press - tab” design

Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants Program for 2017 Rheem Australia has announced an enhanced Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants Program for 2017. The company’s CEO has urged apprentice plumbers – both current and those just starting their courses – across Australia to mark Monday 30 January 2017, the day applications open, in their calendars.

“Since we launched the inaugural Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program, we’ve awarded $150,000 in grants to apprentice plumbers around Australia,” says Rheem Chief Operating Officer Chris Taylor. “For 2017 we’ve bolstered the grants after taking into consideration substantial feedback from apprentices, teachers and employers.”

Whereas in previous years $1,000 grants were awarded to successful recipients, in 2017 there will be 10 grants valued at more than $3,000 each. Each grant will comprise $2,000 to go towards TAFE/RTO fees and text books, a $1,000 voucher from the merchant of their choice to go towards tools, plus an Irwin tote tool bag.

“We have increased the value of the grants after assessing the myriad applications for previous grants and speaking with scores of apprentices, plumbing teachers and employers,” explains Chris. “From this feedback, we determined that the greatest financial hardships were affording fees, text books and tools.

That’s why we’ve reassessed the grants program and boosted the value to provide even greater tangible assistance.”

Rheem developed the grants program in 2012 for several key reasons: To thank the Australian plumbing industry for its ongoing support, to invest in its skills future and provide training support, and to help ease financial pressure on apprentice plumbers who’ve been struggling financially.

Each year the grants are awarded by three judges including Rheem’s training manager, Jon Palfrey, in addition to two independent judges from TAFEs/RTOs and plumbing groups, who assess each application on its merits.

“I encourage Australia’s apprentice plumbers to apply for a 2017 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant and hope it will make a real difference for those who are selected to receive a grant,” adds Chris.

About the 2017 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants Applications open on Monday 30 January 2017 and close on Sunday 12 March 2017. Successful grant recipients will be announced on Friday 14 April 2017.

Apprentices can nominate themselves, or their employer can nominate on their behalf. Applicants can download the form from the website at www.rheem. com.au/apprentice and either post, email or fax it (details are on the application form).

For more information about the 2017 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants, email rheemgrants@llewcom.com.au.

www.allvalve.com.au

ph: 02 8543 9811

Recipients of the 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants are not eligible to enter.

membership

I

ndividuals and organisations join industry bodies like MPAQ for a variety of reasons, but ultimately it is because they find a benefit or advantage in doing so.

But with so many members supporting our Association, there are many options to choose from when it comes to member benefits.

MPAQ are negotiating a deal for members to receive discounts through Officeworks and we have agreed on 100 different products most used by Plumbers in regards to their office supplies. Many more items will be added to this list and full details of the offer will be released in early 2017. In the mean time, check out www.officeworks.com.au to check out their range of products!

MAGAZINE

What’s New?

Officeworks has over 150 retail stores throughout Australia. As Australia’s leading retailer and supplier of office products and solutions for home, business and education needs, they provide three easy ways to shop - in store, online or by phone.

PLUMBER

MPAQ is proud to announce their new partnership with Officeworks in 2017.

MASTER

MPAQ Member Benefits 2017 Looks to OFFICEWORKS be Bigger and Better for MPAQ Members!

With this in mind, MPAQ have engaged in a robust evaluation of all of our member benefits, and 2017 is shaping up to be nothing short of phenomenal in terms of our new and exclusive benefits coming on board.

To make it easier for everyone to understand what the actual benefits are, we will be promoting the benefits according to their category: •

Fleet and Automotive

•

Human Resources and Legal

•

Training and Development

•

Information and Communications Technology

•

Business Services

•

Technical

•

Lifestyle

What’s coming up in 2017?

•

Major expansion of the fleet discount program across multiple vehicle brands

•

Expansion of the vehicle graphics, signwriting and business stationery services

•

Expansion of the office supplies network

•

New providers for vehicle insurance, roadside assistance, tyres, batteries and windscreens

•

New tool providers, plus trailers and toolbox suppliers

•

Financial tools for payment systems

•

Debt collection services

•

Accounting services

•

Business brokerages

•

Health insurance funds

•

Gymnasium memberships

•

Rental car brands

•

Camping, fishing and boating suppliers

•

Caravans, boats and trailers

•

And so much more!

Keep an eye out for our emails as we roll out new benefits in the New Year. You can see a full list of MPAQ Member Benefits on the website (www.mpaq.com.au) under Membership. Contact MPAQ on 07 3273 0800 for further information.

SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS If you operate a plumbing business in Queensland, you are legally required to provide and maintain a safe and healthy workplace for yourself, workers and customers.

Work health and safety legislation requires you to: •

ensure safe systems of work

•

ensure safe use and handling of goods and substances

•

provide information, instruction, training and supervision to your workers to ensure they are safe

•

assess risks and implement appropriate measures for controlling them

•

report notifiable incidents to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ)

•

investigate incidents and take action to avoid having something similar happen again

•

provide workers’ compensation insurance

This is not an easy job to do, so MPAQ have partnered with INCA and Site Safety Solutions to help you get your business fully compliant. Being cloud based, they are ideal for any business anywhere!

Discounts are available for MPAQ Members, just quote your membership number to receive great deals.

INCA: www.incabusiness.com Site Safety Solutions: www.sitesafetysolutions.com.au Contact the MPAQ Office on 07 3273 0800 for further information.

33

membership

MPAQ Membership New Members Name Mitchell Brown

Trading Source Plumbing Contractors Pty Ltd

Chapter Brisbane North

Alex McDonald

Sana Plumbing & Gas

Brisbane North

Bradley O'Carroll

Bribie Island Plumbing Perfection

Brisbane North

Brad Enchelmaier

Beta Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

Marcelle Baardt

Marco Solutions

Brisbane South

Kirsten Ratcliffe

Mint Plumbing Services Qld Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

Darren Wardill

Darren Wardill

Brisbane South

Jung Yeol Park

Jung Yeol Park

Brisbane South

Ian Stanley

Ian Stanley Plumbing

Bundaberg

Carleen Macnamara

Roth Plumbing

Central

Michio Strating

Oceanlink Plumbing & Gas

Central

David Whitmore

David Whitmore

Central

Luke Wren

Luke Wren Plumbing

Central Highlands

Russell O'Dell

O'Dell Plumbing And Gasfitting

Central Highlands

Kieran Woodhouse

Kieran P Woodhouse Plumbing

Central Highlands

Noel Graham

Ecosmarte Plumbing & Filtration

Far North Qld

Matt Bourke

Southern Cross Plumbing & Gas

Gold Coast

Clint Falla

Falla Plumbing Qld

Gold Coast

Clayton Martin

LRP Services Pty Ltd

Ipswich

Trent Scott

Trent Scotts Plumbing Pty Ltd

Ipswich

Bruce Ostrofski

Bako Plumbing

Ipswich

Russell McCarthy

Russell McCarthy Plumbing & Gas

Ipswich

Russ Dunne

Bermad Water Technologies

Outside Qld

Raymond Dennis

Raymond W Dennis

Sunshine Coast

Malcolm Gregory

Malcolm Gregory

Sunshine Coast

Aaron Kirkby

Superior Plumbing Brisbane Pty Ltd

Sunshine Coast

Taze Joyce

Joyce Bro Plumbing

Sunshine Coast

Jordan Henry

Henry Plumbing and Gas

Toowoomba

Malcolm Davidson

Toowoomba Solar Centre

Toowoomba

Keagan Stapleton

Locktight Plumbing & Gas Pty Ltd

Toowoomba

Name Ken Weir

Company K & J Weir Plumbing & Drainage Pty Ltd

Division Mackay

Neil Jones

Neil Jones Pty Ltd

Central

40

Daniel Bowen

Bowen Plumbing Pty Ltd

Gold Coast

40

Trevor Kitson

Trevor Kitson Plumbing

Brisbane South

30

Steven Mauger

Titan Civil & Earthmoving Pty Ltd

Brisbane South

20

Victor Cross

Victor Cross

Brisbane North

20

F ebruary

Robert Parker

Robert Parker

North Qld

20

David Richards

David Richards & Associates

Gold Coast

20

Trevor Woodward

Chilton Woodward & Associates

Sunshine Coast

20

John Malcolm Kelly

Kelly Plumbing

Brisbane South

20

Robert Burmester

Miteglen Pty Ltd

Sunshine Coast

20

/

Chris Buckley

Chris Buckley Plumbing

Toowoomba

10

JANUARY

Ian North

Ian North Plumbing

Central

10

Ian Law

Waterworx Plumbing

Sunshine Coast

10

Patrick Dwyer

Leprechaun Plumbing

Brisbane North

10

Scott Mothersole

Scott J Mothersole Plumbing Pty Ltd

Brisbane North

10

Darryl Cini

D & K Cini Plumbing

Brisbane North

10

2017

In July 2016, Randel South Plumbing celebrated their 60th anniversary of MPAQ membership. Randel South is the current owner and sole contractor of Randel South Plumbing in Brisbane North, which he took over from his father, founder of the company, Ken South.

As a proud, family run business that focuses on providing excellent customer service, which has seen them maintain a customer base that spans three generations, Randel South Plumbing are a small company with a big heart and a special place in MPAQ history.

“My grandfather was one of the original members of MPAQ, but his records were lost in the Bowen Hills Fire,” Randel told us.

Milestone Achievements

34

Congratulations Randel South Plumbing on 60 Years Membership!

Milestone 40

The industry has changed a lot in the last 60 years, and Randel has seen developments in technology and equipment change his company in that time—laptops are now a must have item in the Randel South Plumbing truck! However, despite all the changes, their MPAQ membership has remained a constant.

“MPAQ is very helpful. The fuel card, trade nights and information about changes in the industry requirements have helped my business over the years.”

What is next for Randel South Plumbing?

Randel wants to keep the company in the family and hopes his son will be joining the business soon to continue the family legacy for generations to come, and MPAQ hope to be there every step of the way.

Congratulations Randel South Plumbing on 60 years with MPAQ!

MPAQ President, Kelvin Slade with Randel and Dustin from Randel South Plumbing at the 2016 Plumbing & Gas Industry Awards night

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35

contents

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36

Master Plumbers’ Association of QLD membership details required to redeem Gold Fleet Discounts.