TS 12368

TS 12368 is a vocational standard for the plumber occupation and the core concepts used in plumbing work. It defines what plumbing is, how the plumber role is described, how the occupation is classified, and how the tools, equipment, machines, and devices used in the field are organised. It also frames the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviours expected at different levels within the occupation, bringing the technical and professional dimensions of the job into a common structure.

Technical scope of plumbing work and equipment

In general technical terms, plumbing deals with the distribution of water within buildings, the removal of used water, and the correct installation of the related components. A plumber typically works with pipes, fittings, valves, fixtures, and associated installation equipment. The standard’s contribution is to describe this occupation in a structured way, linking the naming of tools and equipment with the practical competence areas needed to perform the work reliably.

Knowledge, skill, and assessment criteria

An important feature of the standard is that it treats the occupation as a set of measurable competencies rather than a simple task description. By including assessment criteria for knowledge, skill, attitudes, and behaviours across different classes, it shows that professional competence in plumbing includes not only technical execution but also work discipline, care, orderliness, and responsibility. This makes the document a useful reference point for training design and vocational comparison.

• Defines and classifies plumbing and the plumber occupation.
• Covers the tools, equipment, machines, and devices used in the field.
• Addresses the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviours required for each class.
• Includes assessment criteria for those competencies.