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Page 1: MDphccSP12magFORWEB
Page 2: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

Zero or even below, the Woodford 65/67 series commercial wall hydrants will tolerate any temperatures without freezing. All drain automatically, even with a hose attached. The 67 models include an ASSE Standard 1052 approved backflow preventer connection…and all come with Woodford quality, durability, and the ability to tolerate anything Mother Nature can throw at them.

WOODFORD 65/67 SERIES FREEZELESS WALL HYDRANTS

Model 67 Freezeless Wall Hydrant with backflow prevention The ASSE 1052 approved double check is field testable. Designed to complement modern architecture. The Model 65 offers the same features with an ASSE 1019 vacuum breaker.

RB67 Round Box Freezeless Wall Hydrant

Fits through standard 6” diameter cored hole.

Supplied with a ASSE 1052 approved double

check backflow preventer that is field

testable. Designed especially for tilt-up

wall construction. Also available as the RB65

with ASSE 1019 approved vacuum breaker.

B67 Freezeless Wall Hydrant with double check backflow protectionA rectangular version of our RB67, with backflow prevention. Also offered as the B65.

Choose from backflow prevention (67 series) or anti-siphon vacuum

breaker (65 series) hose connections.

2121 Waynoka RoadColorado Springs, CO 80915800.621.6032www.woodfordmfg.com

WOODFORD MANUFACTURING COMPANY

Represented in Eastern MD by Barger & Associates 757-873-4574Represented in Western MD by Virginia Marketing 804-569-0360

[ 2 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

Page 3: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

Spring 2012 | Maryland PHCC Contractor [ 3 ]

PHCC CONTRACTOR MAGAZINEmaryland

Spring 2012

PRESIDENTKATHARINE K. STRADLEYWEST FRIENDSHIP, MD

(410) 442-2221(410) 442-7626 FAX

FIRST VICE PRESIDENTALBERT REED

BALTIMORE, MD(410) 483-3312

(410) 866-5427 FAX

SECRETARYA. DAHLE AMENDT, II

BALTIMORE, MD (410) 426-3888

(410) 426-8866 FAX

TREASURERFREDERICK WOLFBALTIMORE, MD(410) 327-4750

(410) 563-1611 FAX

SERGEANT AT ARMSTIMOTHY FELDMAN

ELKRIDGE, MD(410) 536-5700

(410) 536-5705 FAX

OFFICERS 2012 .............................

Maryland PHCC Contractor Magazine is the official magazine of The Maryland Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors and is published four times annually. The Maryland PHCC does not necessarily en-dorse any of the companies advertising in this publication or the views of its writers.

Maryland PHCC Contractor Magazine is designed and published by Blue Water Publishers, LLC. Articles and information published in this magazine may not be reproduced without written consent of The Maryland PHCC or Blue Water Publishers, LLC. The publisher cannot assume re-sponsibility for claims made by advertisers and is not responsible for the opinions expressed by contributing authors.

For more information on advertising, contact Jim Aitkins

Blue Water Publishers, LLC 22727 - 161st Avenue SE, Monroe, WA 98272

360-805-6474 / fax: 360-805-6475 [email protected]

Senior Editor - Diane P. Kastner

President’s Message - Katharine K. Stradley 4

Calendar of Events 5

A Strong Spirit, A United Voice - Gerry Kennedy, Ex VP, PHCC National Association 6

Annual Trade Show - April 26, 2012 8

Lead Free Regulations 10

The Ten Commandments of Good Safety Habits 12

Operation: “Do It Right the First Time” 14

CONTENTS ...........................

Aireco Supply page 11Bradford White 15Cummins-Wagner 14FastEst 13Hodes Co. 13Liberty Pumps 16Rheem 7Saniflo 5T&S Brass 4Trade Wraps 9Viega 13Woodford Manufacturing 2

ADVERTISER SUPPORT...........

DIRECTORS

THOMAS KELLERELLICOTT CITY, MD

(410) 203-1741(410) 203-2638 FAX

JIM BERNDTBALTIMORE, MD (410) 254-7473

(410) 256-4787 FAX

STEVEN M. SCHAEFERWESTMINSTER, MD

(410) 876-6825(410) 857-0011 FAX

BRUCE J. SOLOMONREISTERSTOWN, MD

(410) 833- 2188 (410) 833-9023 FAX

J. PAUL KINGSTONPASADENA, MD(410) 437-3888

(410) 360-7847 FAX

RONALD STIEGLERELDERSBURG, MD

(410) 876-6825

ADMINISTRATIVE CHAIRA. DAHLE AMENDT, II

BALTIMORE, MD(410) 426-3888

(410) 426-8866 FAX

RALPH M. VITALE, SR.BALTIMORE, MD(410) 665-6262

EDGAR W. ZEPP, IVCLARKSVILLE, MD

(410) 531-6712 (410) 531-5812 FAX

VERNON L. GAUSS, JR.KINGSVILLE, MD

JIM BERNDT BALTIMORE, MD(410) 254-7373

(410) 256-4787 FAX

STEVEN M. SCHAEFERWESTMINSTER, MD

(410) 876-6825(410) 857-0011 FAX

RONALD W. STIEGLERELDERSBURG, MD

(410) 876-6825

WALTER L. BREWERTIMONIUM, MD

THOMAS N. EARPHANOVER, PA

PAUL F. GOEDEKE BALTIMORE, MD

RALPH M. VITALE, SR.BALTIMORE, MD

APPRENTICESHIPEDUCATION COUNCIL MEMBERS

HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS

Page 4: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

[ 4 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

Wow! What a year, and it’s only just the beginning.

Are you “lead free” compliant yet? As you know the Maryland HB 372 Lead

Free Law went into effect January 1, 2012. This caught some contractors and suppliers off guard. There were so many questions and so much misinformation circulating regarding issues such as, which materials needed to be compliant, which applications were included, were there any exemptions allowed, how do you know if the product is compliant, etc. The Maryland PHCC had multiple meetings to address our member’s concerns and questions regarding the challenges of the new law. Our expert panel of guest speakers included Dick Wagner, Chairman of the National Standard Plumbing Code Committee; Steve Smitson, Assistant Commissioner of the Occupational & Professional Licensing Division of

the Maryland State Board of Plumbing; manufacturing representative Troy Joyce from The Joyce Agency; and the Maryland PHCC lobbyist Gil Genn, Esq. from Capitol Hill Strategic Advocates. Many thanks to all of them for taking the time to meet with us to answer our questions and clarify the rules and regulations for us. They did a great job!

The Maryland PHCC Trade Show and Bull Roast will be held on Thursday, April 26th at the Pikesville Armory. Admission to the show is free. Don’t miss the hands-on demonstrations for properly soldering the new lead free fittings. Now is your chance to talk to the suppliers and wholesalers about their new products, tools and equipment for 2012. Don’t be left behind! Come show your support for our vendors and see the latest in software and technology for the plumbing, heating, cooling industry. I look forward to seeing you there.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Katharine K. Stradley

What do the Beach Boys,Mickey Mouse, and T&S low-lead faucets have in common?

Mickey Mouse® and the Beach Boys® are trademarks of Disney Enterprises, Inc. and Brothers Records, Inc., respectively, and T&S Brass has no affiliation with either such entity.

They all got their start in California, and they all swept the nation. Although California led the way with the AB1953 legislation mandating low-lead faucets, it’s only a matter of time until they are required in all states. And T&S is ready — all of our faucets are low-lead compliant and are available across the country. And, as always, T&S faucets are as rugged and reliable as they come, and meet the requirements of the Buy America Act. Contact your sales rep for more information.

T&S plumbing products represented in Maryland by:S.E. Taylor & Associates - 410-255-7620

w w w. t s b r a s s . c o m • 8 0 0 . 4 7 6 . 4 1 0 3

contributing to LEED certi�cation

Page 5: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

Spring 2012 | Maryland PHCC Contractor [ 5 ]

2012 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May 11, 12, 13, 201232 Hour Back ow Certi cation CourseThos. Somerville Co.1510 Tilco DriveFrederick, MD

May 12, 20128 Hour Back ow Re-Certi cation CourseThos. Somerville Co.1510 Tilco DriveFrederick, MD

May 18, 19, 20, 201232 Hour Back ow Certi cation CourseDundalk Community College7200 Sollers Point RoadDundalk, MD

May 19, 20128 Hour Back ow Re-Certi cation Course7200 Sollers Point RoadDundalk, MD

June 8, 9, 10, 201232 Hour Back ow Certi cation CourseThos. Somerville Co.1510 Tilco DriveFrederick, MD

June 9, 20128 Hour Back ow Re-Certi cation CourseThos. Somerville Co.1510 Tilco DriveFrederick, MD

June 22, 23, 24, 201232 Hour Back ow Certi cation CourseDundalk Community College7200 Sollers Point RoadDundalk, MD

June 23, 20128 Hour Back ow Re-Certi cation Course7200 Sollers Point RoadDundalk, MD

For information on the location anddates for the Plumbing Code andGas Fitters Training classes call theMPHCC of ce (410) 461-5977.

1 -800-571-8191www.saniflo.com

Install a complete bathroom anywhere you need!

The only above-the-fl oor macerator with dual accessibility!

Pumping distance of up to 15'

vertically and/or 150' horizontally

3/4" discharge pipe for ease of installation

Two service panels for easy accessibility to

main components

Three inlets to accommodate a toilet, sink and

tub/shower

2-YEARWARRANTY

Plumbing can be hidden behind the wall using Sanifl o’s extension pipe

Blade

Rubber membrane

Microswitch and capacitor

Page 6: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

[ 6 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

For 130 years, PHCC—National Association has been motivated by the spirit to fulfill our mission of advancing the industry and protecting the health, safety and comfort of society. This investment in the

future of a trade we all treasure has made a real difference, and PHCC’s strong collective voice has played a key role in the advancements that have been achieved by our industry. Our members have experienced the substantial support that results from surrounding themselves with motivated, like-minded contractors; we’ve shared strategies to rally through economic challenges; and, most recently, we’ve been reminded that – together – we have a big impact on legislation and regulations that affect our trade.

Just this past year, there have been significant legislative victories. PHCC’s grassroots efforts led to the November repeal of the three percent withholding tax that would have negatively impacted contractors doing work with local, state and federal governments. We achieved another victory in April 2011 when the President signed into law the repeal of the controversial Form 1099 provision of the healthcare law. The defeat of both of these measures was extremely good news to plumbing and HVACR contractors—and very telling of what can be done when we get involved. To achieve these successes, we appropriately laid our arguments on the table and engaged with national lawmakers so that they could understand why these issues were shortsighted, bad business – and bad for America. Effective advocacy is all about telling your side of the story – and doing it in a non-confrontational manner that engages policymakers.

A Cause for ConcernWhile PHCC continues to be your watchdog in Congress

– especially in this crucial national election year – we are keeping a very keen eye on an alarming regulatory process that is developing public policy by circumventing the legislative process. Federal regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Dept. of Energy, are considering potential guidelines that could make life much more complicated for p-h-c contractors. Even more threatening is that these regulations are being developed with little or no assistance from industry experts, like PHCC, even though we have repeatedly offered our critical assistance.

In many cases, these federal agencies have not carefully considered the knowledge, skills and abilities that are needed to accomplish crucial tasks in these proposed standards – yet, they will be the first to enforce them.

For example, workforce guidelines on single- and multi-family housing currently are making their way through the Dept. of Energy channels. In December, PHCC voiced strong concerns about the way the residential multi-family housing component of the workforce guidelines is evolving. And we continue to relay our objections about the single-family housing guidelines. For some of the regulations under consideration, laborers with only some elements of specialized training will be determining if systems are developed and installed correctly. They will have some say over whether products, such as boilers and water heaters, are properly installed and maintained. Unfortunately, this will take jobs away from highly qualified professional p-h-c contractors and give them to less trained individuals, which may ultimately endanger public health and safety.

Let the spirit MOVE you!As is often the case, this kind of impact wasn’t realized until

experts were finally brought in and immediately noted flaws in some step-by-step processes outlined for retrofitting systems. Rest assured that PHCC is carefully monitoring all regulatory information, requesting meetings with agencies like the Dept. of Energy to make sure we are on top of all activity, and conveying p-h-c contractors’ opinions on the regulations being considered. While legislative advocacy is key, the regulatory process is where “the rubber hits the road.”

What can you do to help? Stay on top of regulations affecting your business; put your issues on a prominent national platform; and prepare to express your professional opinions when PHCC asks. In fact, we’re currently generating hundreds of letters from members on these crucial regulatory issues, and we’d love to reach 1,000 letters.

A lot has changed in our industry in the past 130 years, but history has proven that our collective voice always packs much more power than our individual ones … and our strong spirit remains.

By Gerry KennedyPHCC National Association

Executive Vice President

A Strong Spirit.A United Voice.

History has proven that our collective voice always packs much more power than our individual ones.

Page 7: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

[ 7 ]

Page 8: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

Annual Trade ShowApril 26, 2012

An Industry Show You Won’t Want to Miss!

The Pikesville Armory610 Reisterstown Road

Pikesville, Maryland

Show Hours: 2:00 to 7:00pm

• New Products• Hands-On Soldering Demonstrations• Trucks• Code• Information on the New Lead Free Regulations• Heavy Equipment• Safety Updates• Door Prizes• Basic Hydronics & Controls• Gas Piping - Design/�eory• Water Treatment• Meet Manufacturer Reps

PRESENTED BY NIBCO:“FREE” Hands-On Demonstrations: Lead Free Materials

How to Solder Lead Free Materials Using Lead Free Solder and Flux

“FREE” Admission to “Show”Plenty of “FREE” Parking

>>>> Call the MDPHCC o�ce (410) 461-5977 <<<<to Purchase Bull Roast Tickets and Register for Seminars

Don’t miss this chance to connect!

[ 8 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

Page 9: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

Specializing in fleet wrapsProviding 3M graphicsCertified installersNationwide

*Subject to credit approval

to get 0% in-house financing for 36 mo

for as low as/MO*

Page 10: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

09.20.01 State Plumbing Code

Authority: Business Occupations and Professions Article, §§12-205 and 12-207, Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action[12-016-P]

The State Board of Plumbing proposes to adopt new Regulation .03 under COMAR 09.20.01 State Plumbing Code. This action was considered by the State Board of Plumbing at a public meeting held on November 17, 2011, notice of which was published in 38:23 Md. R. 1481 (November 4, 2011), pursuant to State Government Article, §10-506(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.

Statement of PurposeThe purpose of this action is to provide standards for the

implementation of Business Occupations and Professions Article, §12-605.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, which becomes effective on January 1, 2012. This section requires that those installing or repairing plumbing that is intended to dispense water for human consumption use only lead-free materials.

Comparison to Federal StandardsThere is a corresponding federal standard to this proposed action,

but the proposed action is not more restrictive or stringent.

Estimate of Economic ImpactThe proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small BusinessesThe proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small

businesses.

Impact on Individuals with DisabilitiesThe proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public CommentComments may be sent to Brenda Clark, Administrator, State

Board of Plumbing, 500 N. Calvert Street, Third Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202, or call 410-230-6164, or email to [email protected], or fax to 410-333-6314. Comments will be accepted through February 13, 2012. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

Open MeetingFinal action on the proposal will be considered by the State Board of Plumbing during a public meeting to be held on February 16, 2012, at 500 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202..03 Limit on Lead Content.

A. De nitions.(1) In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings

indicated.(2) Terms De ned.

(a) “Lead-free” means:

(i) Containing not more than a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead when used with respect to the wetted surface of pipes, pipe tting, plumbing ttings, and xtures; and

(ii) Not containing more than 0.2 percent lead when used with respect to solder and ux.

(b) “NSF” means the standards of the National Sanitation Foundation.

B. Weighted Average Lead Content Formula.(1) The weighted average lead content of a lead-free pipe, pipe

tting, plumbing tting, or xture shall be calculated by using the following formula: For each wetted component, the percentage of lead in the component shall be multiplied by the ratio of the wetted surface area of that component to the total wetted surface area of the entire product to arrive at the weighted percentage of lead of the component. The weighted percentage of lead of each wetted component shall be added together, and the sum of these weighted percentages shall constitute the weighted average lead content of the product. The lead content of the material used to produce wetted components shall be used to determine compliance with lead-free requirements. For lead content of materials that are provided as a range, the maximum content of the range shall be used.

(2) The use of platings, coatings, or acid wash treatments may not be used to meet the 0.25 percent weighted average lead content requirements set forth in Business Occupations and Professions Article, §§12-101(h-1)(4) and 12-101(q)(4) and(5), Annotated Code of Maryland.

C. Materials used to dispense water intended for human consumption through drinking or cooking, including piping, faucets, and valves as set forth in §§F and G of this regulation, shall be lead-free, containing not more than a weighted average of 0.25 percent lead with respect to the wetted surface as de ned in §A(2)(a)(ii) of this regulation.

D. Soldered Joints.(1) Solder and ux for soldered joints in potable water piping

shall be lead-free, containing not more than 0.2 percent lead, as de ned in §A(2)(a)(ii) of this regulation.

(2) Flux shall be recommended by the manufacturer for making soldered joints in lead-free potable water supply system piping.

E. Components.(1) Drinking water system components shall comply with the

lead leachate requirements of NSF 61.(2) Potable water supply system components shall comply with

NSF 61, Annex G, or NSF 372.(3) Potable water supply system components that are not

required to be lead-free shall contain not more than 8 percent lead in accordance with Section 3.4.6 of the State Plumbing Code.

F. Potable water end-use devices and potable water supply system piping that are intended to dispense water for human consumption through drinking or cooking include, but are not limited to:

(1) Kitchen sink faucet;

Title 09 DEPARTMENT OF

LABOR, LICENSING, AND REGULATION

Subtitle 20 BOARD OF PLUMBING

[ 10 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

Page 11: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

(2) Residential bathroom sink faucets;(3) Drinking fountain faucets;(4) Kitchen hot water dispensers;(5) Water supply to:

(a) Ice makers;(b) Potable water heaters;(c) Commercial grocer or supermarket misting systems used

for produce;(d) Commercial kitchen cooking equipment; and(e) Production equipment for processed food containing

water; and(6) Any other end-use device or piping that is intended to

dispense or convey water for human consumption. G. Piping components that shall be lead-free when used with

lead-free end-use devices and piping that are required to be lead-free include, but are not limited to:

(1) Main service shut-off valves;(2) Water service back ow prevention devices;(3) Water meters;(4) Pressure booster pumps; (5) Pressure reducing valves;(6) Strainers;(7) Water lters;(8) Check valves;(9) Control valves;(10) Vacuum breakers;(11) Water hammer arrestors;(12) Master hot water mixing valves;(13) In-line tempering valves;(14) Hot water recirculating pumps;(15) Branch piping shut off valves;(16) Balancing valves;(17) Fixture shut off valves;(18) Solenoid valves; (19) Tankless water heaters; and(20) Any other piping component

associated with an end-use device or water supply piping that is required to be lead-free.

H. Materials Not Required to Be Lead-Free.

(1) Pipes, pipe ttings, plumbing ttings or xtures, including back ow preventers, that are used exclusively for nonpotable services such as manufacturing, industrial processing, irrigation, outdoor watering, or any other uses where the water is not anticipated to be used for human consumption are not required to be lead-free.

(2) Potable water end-use devices and water supply system components not anticipated to dispense or convey water to be used for human consumption and not required to be lead-free, including the associated supply piping of such devices and components, include, but are not limited to:

(a) Tub faucets or llers;(b) Shower xtures, including:

(i) Valves;(ii) Heads; and(iii) Adapters;

(c) Flush valves for:(i) Water closets;

(ii) Urinals; and(iii) Bidets;

(d) Shut off valves for clothes washers;(e) Lavatory faucets in public restrooms; (f) Laundry sink faucets;(g) Service sink faucets;(h) Faucets for laboratory applications;(i) Hose bibbs;(j) Trap seal priming devices;(k) Back ow prevention devices that supply nonpotable

applications;(l) Fire hose valves;(m) Water hammer arrestors;(n) The water supply to:

(i) Dishwashers;(ii) Whirlpools;(iii) Spas;(iv) Therapy pools;(v) Swimming pools;(vi) Boilers;(vii) Heating hot water generators;(viii) Humidi ers; and(ix) Irrigation systems;

(o) Food production equipment that does not contact the food; and

(p) Any other end-use device or water supply piping that is not anticipated to dispense or convey water that is to be used for human consumption.

MICHAEL J. KASTNER, JR. Chair, State Board of Plumbing

Spring 2012 | Maryland PHCC Contractor [ 11 ]

Aireco 1/3 page ad to follow

Page 12: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

1. Set Your Own Standards.

Don’t be influenced by others around you who are nega-tive. If you fail to wear safety glasses because others don’t, remember the blindness you may suffer will be yours alone to live with.

2. Operate Equipment Only if Qualified

Your supervisor may not realize you have never done the job before. You have the responsibility to let your supervisor know, so the necessary training can be provided.

3. Respect Machinery

If you put something in a machine’s way, it will crush it, pinch it or cut it. Make sure all guards are in place. Never hurry beyond your ability to think and act safely. Remember to de-energize the power first before placing your hands in a point of operation.

4. Use Your Own Initiatve for Safety Protection

You are in the best position to see problems when they arise. Ask for the personal protective equipment or addi-tional guidance you need.

5. Ask Questions

If you are uncertain, ask. Do not accept answers that contain, “I think, I assume, I guess.” Be sure.

6. Use Care and Caution When Lifting

Most muscle and spinal injuries are from overstrain. Know your limits. Do not attempt to exceed them. The few min-utes it takes to get help will prevent weeks of being off work and in pain.

7. Practice Good Housekeeping

Disorganized work areas are the breeding grounds for ac-cidents. You may not be the only victim. Don’t be a cause.

8. Wear Proper and Sensible Work Clothes

Wear sturdy and appropriate footwear. These should en-close the foot fully. Avoid loose clothing, dangling jewelry, and be sure that long hair is tied back and cannot become entangled in the machinery.

9. Practice Good Personal Cleanliness

Avoid touching eyes, face and mouth with gloves or hands that are dirty. Wash well and use barrier creams when necessary. Most industrial rashes are the result of poor hygiene practices.

10. Be a Positive Part of the Safety Team

Willingly accept and follow safety rules. Encourage others to do so. Your attitude can play a major role in the preven-tion of accidents and injuries.

The 10

Commandmentsof

Good Safety

Habits

In most everything we do, we �nd a “trick” to make the process easier and faster. A�er we de-velop these tricks, they become work habits in our everyday activities. Developing everyday safety habits can keep you injury free through the year. Here are ten safety habits to live by:

[ 12 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

Page 13: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

Spring 2012 | Maryland PHCC Contractor [ 13 ]

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Viega PEX Press

in polymer

The g loba l leaderin p lumbing, heat ing

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Viega PEX Press polymer �ttingsThe Smart way to Connect PEX tubing.

Reduce installation time with Viega PEX Press polymer fittings

Viega PEX Press polymer �ttings are the newest PEX joining system on the market, suitable for potable water and radiant applications. Viega PEX Press polymer �ttings are the �rst and only PEX joining method to offer the patented Viega Smart Connect® feature, which helps installers easily identify unpressed connections.

Viega PEX Press polymer fittings:

•Makesecure,reliableconnectionsevenin cold weather

•Allowinstallerstopressuretestthesystemwith no waiting required

•ProvidetheViegaSmartConnectfeaturetohelpinstallers identify unpressed connections

Made in the USA

www.viega.com | 1-800-976-9819

Page 14: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

[ 14 ] Maryland PHCC Contractor | Spring 2012

That is the sound of dollars being sucked out of your bottom line or even worse. The number one cause of that happening is not doing it right the first time. I have spent over three decades coaching in this industry and

it has become crystal clear why companies do not optimize their profits or even have serious losses. Someone did not do some-thing right the first time.

It could happen in any area of the company; and often hap-pens in more than one. You have heard me say this many times: “Construction is not rocket science.” We will examine some areas that need immediate attention.

First is our hiring function. Many of my clients are growing and need more “bodies”. No, what they need are qualified team members. Shockingly, every applicant who walks through the door claims to be “qualified.” Being in the trade for eight years does not guarantee eight years experience. Devise a test – hands-on or written. Just walk them through your shop and ask about materi-als. Many “qualified” applicants do not even know basic material.

Let the field supervisor know who is hired, their supposed skill level, and their rate of pay. Failing to do that is not smart; despite what most companies do. A field supervisor can’t rate the new team member if they don’t know what they are earning.

Second is our training program. For most companies training is a joke. We send someone out to the field and hope it works out OK. 99% of the companies in this industry have no formal training program. Can you imagine if the Armed Services operated that way? It would be a disaster; just as it is for your company. And please, do not try the lame excuse that you have an “on-the-job” training program. Unless it is a formal, written program you don’t have squat. You cannot go over to the local operating room and hang out there and learn to be a brain surgeon.

I have heard all the excuses for not having a sound training program. They are all lame. You must have a solid training pro-gram so we do it right the first time more consistently.

Next are our systems. It is difficult to be consistent if you have not created written procedures, checklists, etc. that guide team members through the process of doing it right the first time.

Every time there has been a major issue by not doing it right the first time, someone knew how to do it right; they just didn’t. Doing it right the first time normally takes a few extra minutes; at

the most maybe an hour. When we don’t do it right the first time how much time does it take to do it over? Enough said. Let’s get whatever it takes to do it right the first time on paper. If it isn’t on paper you don’t have a system.

Copyright 2006 by PLI, Inc.The Phoenix Leadership Institute, Inc.P. O. Box 1403, Centreville, VA 20122Tel: 703-909-8230, Fax: 703-743-1644e-mail: [email protected]

This information is brought to you by thePHCC Educational Foundation.

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Page 15: MDphccSP12magFORWEB

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be a Bradford White contractor.

www.bradfordwhite.com | Built to be the Best™ | To Find A Wholesaler Call 800.523.2931*Ranking is based on the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 CLEAReports by Clear Seas Research. Please visit www.clearseasresearch.com for additional information. © 2011, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved.

“We made the switch to Bradford White almost 15 years ago when we started having problems with

another brand. Our reputation depends on the products we recommend so quality and reliability are critical.

We couldn’t be happier. Bradford White is loyal to the plumbing profession. Their products and people are

top notch.” Kevin and Ryan Carney - Carney Plumbing – Heating – Cooling, Line Lexington, PA

For the fifthstraight year,Bradford White

is the tank waterheater brand

most purchasedby professional

contractors. And again,

we are the mostrecommended

brand.

Spring 2012 | Maryland PHCC Contractor [ 15 ]

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PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 592Pontiac, Illinois

Maryland PHCC10176 Baltimore National Pike, Suite 205Ellicott City, MD 21042

The new macerating toilet with RazorCutTM technology.Making impossible bathrooms possible.

The new macerating toilet with RazorCutTM technology.Making impossible bathrooms possible.

8 0 0 . 5 4 3 . 2 5 5 0l i b e r t y p u m p s . c o m

Copyright © Liberty Pumps, Inc. 2011 All rights reserved. 1.28 GPF

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