Block B: Tools and Equipment of the Plumbing Apprenticeship Program Level 1 Series features Skilled Trades BC industry-authority content that builds on the safety foundations introduced in Block A by focusing on the correct selection, use, and care of essential plumbing tools and equipment. Safe work practices remain central, but the emphasis in this block is on developing hands-on technical competence in the tools apprentices use every day on the job.

In Block B, apprentices learn how to safely and effectively use hand tools and measuring tools; operate portable power tools; access work areas using ladders, scaffolds, and other access equipment; and perform rigging, hoisting, lifting, and positioning tasks. This block also introduces the safe use of soldering, brazing, oxy-fuel cutting, and welding equipment. Mastery of these skills supports workplace efficiency, reduces the risk of injury or equipment damage, and lays the groundwork for more advanced plumbing tasks in later levels of the apprenticeship.

Plumbing Apprenticeship Program Level 1 Series

The Plumbing Apprenticeship Program Level 1 Series offers comprehensive training materials designed to build on foundational skills and knowledge. The series is divided into four main blocks, each focusing on critical areas of plumbing systems and installations.

Block A: Safety Related Functions

A-1: Workplace Hazards
A-2: WorkSafeBC Regulations
A-3: Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials
A-4: Personal Safety Practices
A-5: Fire Safety

Block B: Tools and Equipment

B-1: Use Hand Tools and Measuring Tools
B-2: Use Portable Power Tools and Use
B-3: Use Access Equipment
B-4: Use Rigging, Hoisting, Lifting and Positioning Equipment, and Rigging
B-5: Use Soldering and Brazing Equipment and Oxy-Fuel Cutting Equipment
B-6: Use Welding Equipment

Block C: Routine Trade Activities and Electrical Concepts

C-1: Mathematics and Science
C-2: Electrical Concepts and Principles of Electricity
C-3: Drawings and Specifications
C-4: Codes, Regulations and Standards
C-5: Manufacturer and Supplier Documentation

Block D: Piping and Components

D-1: Install Pipe and Tubing
D-2: Install Valves
D-3: Install Fittings
D-4: Penetrate Structures

Plumbing Apprenticeship Program Overview and Upcoming Resources

Disclaimer

The materials in these Learning Guides are intended for use by students and instructional staff. They have been compiled from sources believed to be reliable and to represent the best current opinions on these subjects. These manuals are designed to serve as a starting point for good practices and may not cover all minimum legal standards. No warranty, guarantee, or representation is made by the BC Piping Trades Articulation Committee, the Skilled Trades BC authority, or the King’s Printer of British Columbia regarding the accuracy or sufficiency of the information contained in these publications. These manuals aim to provide basic guidelines for piping trades practices. Therefore, do not assume that all necessary warnings and safety precautions are included, and additional measures may be required.

Safety Advisory

The current Standards and Regulation in BC can be obtained at the WorkSafeBC website: http://www.worksafebc.com

Please note that it is always the responsibility of any person using these materials to inform themselves about the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation pertaining to their areas of work.

[From previous 2021 book – confirm this message with Skilled Trades]

 

Symbol Legend

Important Information
  Potentially Toxic/ Poisonous Situation
Required or Optional Resources
Potentially Flammable Situation
Complete a Self-Test
Possibly Explosive Situation
Use Protective Equipment
Potential Electric Shock

 

License

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Block B: Tools and Equipment Copyright © 2026 by Skilled Trades BC, TRU Open Press is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

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