Austin, Texas — The Texas plumbing industry came together on Tuesday for the inaugural Texas Plumbing Industry Day, an event aimed at connecting stakeholders with policymakers to discuss key industry priorities. Members of the Texas state legislature and their staff gathered at a reception where sponsors highlighted the critical role of plumbing professionals in protecting public health and safety, the industry's commitment to workforce development, and the importance of maintaining the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
The event was co-sponsored by numerous organizations collectively representing thousands of licensed professionals across Texas, including the Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Contractors (PHCC) of Texas, the United Association of Journeyman and Apprentices of the Plumbing & Pipefitting Industry (UA), the Mechanical Contractors Association (MCA) of Texas, the Southwest Pipe Trades Association (SWPTA), and IAPMO. These groups worked collaboratively to bring together union and non-union representatives, suppliers, and other industry professionals to advocate for policies that support the plumbing trade and ensure the highest standards for Texans.
“This was a great opportunity to showcase to legislators the unity of the stakeholders and our commitment to upholding high standards for a skilled workforce,” said Vicki VanNest, executive director of PHCC Texas.
“The Industry Day provided a platform for stakeholders to connect with policymakers and collaborate on strengthening the industry,” said Wayne Lord, business manager of Plumbers Local Union 68.
Texas Plumbing Industry Day marks a significant step in showcasing unity within the industry while advancing efforts to strengthen training programs, maintain regulatory oversight, and protect Texas communities through sound plumbing standards.
ASSE International is seeking members to update or create the following product standards: ASSE 1012, ASSE 1023, ASSE 1051, ASSE 1376, and ASSE 1391. Working group members will be assisting the Product Standards Committee (PSC) with the continued development of these existing and prospective American National Standards. (ASSE 1376 and 1391 are new standards.)
ASSE International is seeking working group members to update three professional qualification standards — ASSE 12000 Standard for Water Management and Infection Control Risk Assessment for Building Systems; ASSE 13000 Standard for Service Plumber and Residential Mechanical Service Technician; and ASSE 27000 Standard for Hybrid Fire Extinguishing Systems Personnel.
IAPMO’s Systems Certification Body (SCB) has been accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) to provide ISO 45001:2018 certification to existing and prospective clients wishing to demonstrate the effectiveness of their occupational health and safety management system.