March 2006
New plumbing publication will benefit thousands
The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Plumbing Council (WPC) have launched ‘Health Aspects of Plumbing’ (HAP), a joint publication with contributions from experts around the world.
This publication is dedicated to assisting in achieving the best possible plumbing levels to ensure the highest health benefits from use of sound plumbing practices. It is aimed at administrators and plumbers working in areas that are served by a mains drinking-water supply or sewerage system, or are about to install a mains drinking-water supply or sewerage system. It should be of particular value to those working in countries or areas that are in the early stages of introducing effective plumbing systems. It will also act as a reminder to developed countries not to become complacent about plumbing.
Robert Burgon, Deputy Chairman of WPC and Director of SNIPEF said: "The publication of HAP is possibly the most significant milestone in the history of the World Plumbing Council so far. This joint publication with the World Health Organisation is important for plumbers everywhere.
“Although the primary purpose of the document is to provide guidance to developing nations where there is little or no structured approach to plumbing, I believe it will also play a significant contribution in developed countries. In many developed nations, including the UK, the link between good plumbing and good health has either been long forgotten or is ignored. HAP will assist in reminding politicians and society as a whole that the plumbing industry plays a vital role in protecting our health."
Andy Watts, IPHE Chief Executive, who has been Secretary of WPC for 10 years said: "Back in November 1997, we suggested to WHO that their 1982 Guidelines on Health Aspects of Plumbing needed revision. After nearly nine years and nine drafts it is great to see HAP finally in print. Its recommendations are a wake up call to governments and the medical profession around the world that bad plumbing is bad for people and, in some cases, can kill. Indeed, HAP highlights the need for enforceable regulations and the statutory registration of plumbers - a longstanding quest of the Institute and the Worshipful Company of Plumbers."
The launch of HAP took place in Beijing, China on Tuesday 14th March at a joint WHO/WPC Press Conference. At the Conference, Dr Jose Hueb of the WHO, Water Sanitation and Health Division, said: “Plumbing has always been important to health. It is important to health today and will be even more important tomorrow. Today, in parallel with the tremendous health gains originated by plumbing systems, the statistics from countries indicate an increasing proportion of disease outbreaks arise because of problems in distribution systems and inadequate domestic plumbing. Health Aspects of Plumbing will contribute to a better level of understanding of the importance of plumbing to public health."
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MARCH 2006
New Chief Executive Appointed
The Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering has appointed Blane Judd as Chief Executive, to take over from Andy Watts when he retires in July.
Blane is a Chartered Engineer, and has an honours degree in Integrated Engineering. He gained considerable experience in the electricity supply industry and in regulation of that sector and has spent the last two years as Operations Director for SummitSkills - the Sector Skills Council for building services engineering. At SummitSkills Blane worked closely with both industry and government partners and has developed relationships, which will be of benefit to the Institute when he joins the organisation.
“I’ve enjoyed my time at SummitSkills immensely,” said Blane Judd. “The experience I’ve gained here has enabled me to take on this new and exciting role. I look forward to joining the IPHE and to working with the Board of Trustees and IPHE members to enhance the professional standing of plumbing and heating engineering with government and in society.”
Keith Marshall, Chief Executive of SummitSkills said the following: “We’re delighted that Blane has taken the opportunity to lead this influential professional body. We already work closely with the IPHE and so Blane’s new position will strengthen our links even further, to benefit employers working in the plumbing and heating industries.”
Andy Watts added: “'I am delighted that Blane Judd is succeeding me when I retire at the end of July. He brings many qualities to the role of IPHE CEO, including clarity of thought, political astuteness, energy and enthusiasm. The fact that he has helped set up SummitSkills from its early beginnings means he already knows much about the plumbing, heating and engineering communities and this is a real bonus. I wish him every success.”
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MARCH 2006
A very special dinner with the President
Around 100 guests had dinner with the President of the Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (IPHE) on 8th March at the Café Royal, London. This was a glittering occasion helping to mark the Institute’s centenary year.
Tony Brunton IEng LCGI FIPHE RP, National President for 2005/2006 invited leading figures from the plumbing and heating industry to join him for the evening. Guests included Phil Hope MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Skills, Department for Education and 19 Past Presidents. After the meal, Tony paid tribute to the dedication of the Institute’s forebears and the support of its members.
“It is through their voluntary annual pledge to act with competence and commitment to good standards in the public interest that has enabled the Institute to achieve a high measure of credibility, respect and authority over the past 100 years.”
The President went on to talk about the lack of employers willing to take on trainees in England and Wales. He blamed part of the problem on regulatory pressures upon the plumbing and heating sector where 85% of those in business do not employ anyone and have no inclination or incentive to do so. Consequently, private rogue trainers who offer fast track training at rip-off prices add to this problem.
“It is frightening to hear that after just a few weeks many trainees set up in business and thus run the risk of becoming a danger to themselves and the public at large.”
“Interestingly, Scotland is experiencing an all-time-high in the number of plumbing apprenticeships. At present 1,400 are studying for a minimum standard of SVQ Level 3. This is substantial as Scotland represents just 8.5% of the British population.”
Before Tony thanked his special guests for attending and wife, June for her support throughout his presidential year, he introduced the new Chairman Designate of the Board of Trustees, Reg James CBE, who will take up office in June and Blane Judd, who will take over from the Chief Executive, Andy Watts, when he retires in July.
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MARCH 2006