A plumber is someone who installs and repairs water pipes and drains. Typically, a plumber installs and repairs residential and commercial buildings’ plumbing fixtures such as water faucets, toilets, sinks, and showers, as well as drains, sewer pipes, and septic tanks. Plumbers may also work on large industrial plants, although for such jobs they generally require special licensing and certification. In some areas, a plumber may also specialize in sewer clearing, water main installation, and other sewer maintenance services. To become a plumber, you typically need to attend school for two years before earning a certification or degree. Many employers prefer to hire apprentice plumbers who have earned their licensing by first completing an apprenticeship program with an experienced plumber.Working as a plumber can be physically demanding, and you may be exposed to harmful substances at work. In many cases, employers provide protective gear like goggles, heavy-duty gloves, and other protective clothing to help prevent injuries from occurring. However, even with protective gear, you may still be at risk for certain types of injuries while working as a plumber. If you are interested in this line of work, it is important to know what risks accompany this job and how you can protect yourself from them if necessary. Read on to learn more about the risks associated with this occupation and how you can manage them if necessary.

Lifting and positioning hazards

Working as a plumber requires heavy lifting and positioning. This may include positioning large pipes, heavy appliances, and other materials that can cause strains and sprains to your back and other parts of your body. You should take steps to protect your back by following these tips:

  • Wear the proper safety equipment - Lifting heavy objects can lead to injuries, including sprains and strains. Protect yourself by wearing a back brace, lifting pad, and other safety gear as needed. You may also want to consider wearing a back support belt.
  • Train to lift properly - To avoid injury, you should train to lift properly. Start with lightweight objects, and increase the weight as you get stronger and more comfortable with the process. Follow these tips to lift correctly:

Manual labor and repetitive motion injuries

Working with your hands can lead to repetitive motion injuries, which often occur when you perform the same task over and over again. While some injuries can be prevented, others are harder to avoid. If you are working with tools, you can reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries by following these tips:

  • Change up your tasks - If you frequently perform the same task over and over again, change up your tasks so you do not cause repetitive motion injuries. This way, you can stretch out your muscles and avoid developing stress and strain.
  • Maintain a proper body position - Maintaining a proper body position while working can reduce the risk of developing repetitive motion injuries. While you work, you should stand in a way that keeps your spine in a neutral position and avoids strain on your back and other parts of your body.
  • Use proper ergonomic tools - If you use tools that require manual force, you should use ergonomic tools to prevent injuries. These tools should be adjustable, properly sized, and allow you to maintain the proper body position while using them.

Falls from height

Working as a plumber may also include working at or near heights. Working in high places may put you at risk for a number of injuries, including falls, slips, and strains. To reduce the risk of a fall, employers should provide the proper safety equipment, including ladders, safety harnesses, and fall prevention pads. You should also use a fall prevention ladder safety checklist to ensure that your ladder is in the correct position, ladder rungs are secure, and the ladder is locked in place. If you have to work at heights, you should wear special high-visibility clothing so that others can see you and avoid knocking into you.

Exposure to harmful chemicals

Working as a plumber may also expose you to harmful chemicals, including scalding water, sewage, and other substances. While these chemicals can be harmful to your eyes, skin, and lungs, you can minimize your exposure by wearing protective clothing and using proper ventilation. Wearing proper protective clothing, such as gloves and goggles, can reduce your exposure to chemicals and prevent injuries from occurring. Proper ventilation can also reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and prevent injuries from occurring.

Working in extreme temperatures

Working in hot environments can lead to several types of injuries, including heat stress. To protect yourself from these injuries, you should be properly trained, wear the proper protective gear, and follow a cooling off period after working in the heat. Working in cold environments can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related injuries. To protect yourself from these injuries, you should be properly trained, wear the proper protective gear, and follow a cooling off period after working in the cold.

Summing up

Working as a plumber is not for the fainthearted. However, if you have the right skills and training, it can be a great job. You may also be able to make a good living as a plumber by running your own business. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with this occupation and how you can manage them if necessary. Working as a plumber is a challenging and physically demanding job that requires a high level of skill and dedication. If you are interested in this line of work, make sure you are fully prepared for these risks.