A plumber is a person who installs, repairs and maintains plumbing fixtures or systems in businesses, industries or residences.

The main duties of a plumber are to:

• Measure, cut, shape, assemble and join various materials
• Use, clean and maintain various equipment
• Read, prepare or interpret blueprints and drawings
• Conform with building codes and other regulations
• Prepare cost estimates and documentation for clients
• Supervise apprentices or other workers

Plumbers work in a variety of settings, some of which may contain hazards. The main occupational hazards for plumbers to be aware of include:

• Potential infection from bird or rodent droppings
• histoplasmosis
• psittacosis
• hantavirus
• Exposure to lead, adhesives, solvents, solder, sulphur dioxide, and other toxic or carcinogenic substances
• Proximity to flammable or combustible materials
• Working in awkward positions, or performing awkward manual tasks
• Lifting heavy or awkward objects
• Exposure to extreme temperatures
• Working in confined spaces
• Working at heights
• Risk of eye injury from flying particles
• Slips, trips and falls
• Working with various tools
• Stress
• Shift work or extended work days

• Follow safety procedures for confined space entry, trenches and excavations.
• Use fall protection and other precautions when working at heights.
• Install and maintain good ventilation.
• Keep tools and equipment, and their safety features, in good working order.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment for the task.
• Wear appropriate footwear.
• Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Avoid awkward body positions and repetitive manual tasks, or take frequent breaks.
• Learn safe lifting techniques.
• Follow a recommended shift work pattern, and know the associated hazards.

• Practices safety procedures for:
• Confined space entry
• Working at heights
• Working with hand tools, and power tools
• Selection, use and maintenance of personal protective equipment
• Selection of footwear
• Lifting
• Shift work

• Follow company safety rules.
• Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and MSDSs.
• Know how to report a hazard
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.

General information is available in OSH Answers or through the CCOHS person-to-person Inquiries Service.