Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters typically perform the following tasks: • Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches. • Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing. • Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment. • Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels. • Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders. • Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints. • Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications. • Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures. • Select pipe sizes, types, or related materials, such as supports, hangers, or hydraulic cylinders, according to specifications. • Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks. • Direct helpers engaged in pipe cutting, preassembly, or installation of plumbing systems or components. • Inspect, examine, or test installed systems or pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods. • Install pipe assemblies, fittings, valves, appliances such as dishwashers or water heaters, or fixtures such as sinks or toilets, using hand or power tools. • Anchor steel supports from ceiling joists to hold pipes in place. • Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools, or welding equipment. • Modify, clean, or maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, or related machines or equipment, using hand or power tools. • Install automatic controls to regulate pipe systems. • Estimate time, material, or labor costs for use in project plans. • Keep records of work assignments. • Inspect structures to assess material or equipment needs, to establish the sequence of pipe installations, or to plan installation around obstructions, such as electrical wiring.