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APRIL 2017 Publication of the Minnesota Association of Plumbing–Heating–Cooling Contractors SAFETY FIRST Gear up to protect yourself on the job

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Page 1: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

APRIL 2017

Publication of the Minnesota Association of Plumbing–Heating–Cooling Contractors

SAFETY FIRSTGear up to protect yourself on the job

Page 2: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

2”PVC 60 FT

VENTINGUP TO NG LP FIELD GASOR

CONVERTIBLE

CASCADE16UP TO

UNITS

DUALHEAT EXCHANGERS

STAINLESSSTEEL

GAS 24 FT12

CAPABILITYUP TO

2”PVC 60 FT

VENTINGUP TO NG LP FIELD GASOR

CONVERTIBLE

CASCADE16UP TO

UNITS

DUALHEAT EXCHANGERS

STAINLESSSTEEL

GAS 24 FT12

CAPABILITYUP TO

0.97EF

UP TO

0.99EF

UP TO

MINNEAPOLIS | ST. PAUL | DULUTH | DETROIT LAKESST. CLOUD | BRAINERD | ROCHESTER | FARGO | SIOUX FALLS

OMAHA | EAU CLAIRE | WAUSAU | MADISON | MILWAUKEE | GREEN BAYwww.goodinco.com

W E M A K E I T E A S Y T O G O T A N K L E S S

The Leader in Condensing Technology

Navien NPEs are simple to install and easy to sell. To learn more visit: us.navien.com or www.TanklessMadeSimple.com

NPE-Advanced

NPE-Standard

Exclusive ComfortFlo recirculation (with buffer tank & recirculating pump included) for commercial & residential applications.

Highest rated gas water heater on the EPA Energy Star Directory. For commercial & residential applications.

Tankless made simpleTwo high-efficiency models...Advanced and Standard

Tankless Made Simple GOODIN.indd 1 2/20/17 12:36 PM

Page 3: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

2”PVC 60 FT

VENTINGUP TO NG LP FIELD GASOR

CONVERTIBLE

CASCADE16UP TO

UNITS

DUALHEAT EXCHANGERS

STAINLESSSTEEL

GAS 24 FT12

CAPABILITYUP TO

2”PVC 60 FT

VENTINGUP TO NG LP FIELD GASOR

CONVERTIBLE

CASCADE16UP TO

UNITS

DUALHEAT EXCHANGERS

STAINLESSSTEEL

GAS 24 FT12

CAPABILITYUP TO

0.97EF

UP TO

0.99EF

UP TO

MINNEAPOLIS | ST. PAUL | DULUTH | DETROIT LAKESST. CLOUD | BRAINERD | ROCHESTER | FARGO | SIOUX FALLS

OMAHA | EAU CLAIRE | WAUSAU | MADISON | MILWAUKEE | GREEN BAYwww.goodinco.com

W E M A K E I T E A S Y T O G O T A N K L E S S

The Leader in Condensing Technology

Navien NPEs are simple to install and easy to sell. To learn more visit: us.navien.com or www.TanklessMadeSimple.com

NPE-Advanced

NPE-Standard

Exclusive ComfortFlo recirculation (with buffer tank & recirculating pump included) for commercial & residential applications.

Highest rated gas water heater on the EPA Energy Star Directory. For commercial & residential applications.

Tankless made simpleTwo high-efficiency models...Advanced and Standard

Tankless Made Simple GOODIN.indd 1 2/20/17 12:36 PM

ASSOCIATION NEWS

INDUSTRY NEWS

5 PRESIDENT’S LETTER

6 EXECUTIVE MANAGER

14 LOBBYIST UPDATE

19 PLUMBING CE CLASSES

20 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Contents April 2017

FEATURES

PHCC CONNECTION8 SAFETY FIRST by Allison Deerr

There are more dangerous trades — firefighting and coal mining come to mind — but plumbing presents a long list of potential hazards. This is true because jobs and job sites vary widely.

16 SECURING STAFF SAFETY by Samantha Sine

In the HVAC industry, safety is everything. Your technicians are constantly handling dangerous materials on a daily basis, and it’s important to technicians, their employers, and end users that employees are protected while on duty.

21 YOUR MN PHCC LEADERSHIP 22 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

5353 Wayzata Blvd., Ste 350Minneapolis, MN 55416

p 952-564-3060f 952-252-8096

[email protected]

MN PHCC MISSION STATEMENTAdvancing member success through leadership, education, networking and advocacy for the Minnesota Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors, Manufacturers and Wholesalers while protecting public health and the environment.

The Minnesota Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractor, published monthly, is the official publication of the MN Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors, only insofar as notices, bulletins, and reports are concerned. Editorial and personalized news stories reflect the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily that of the Association. Neither the Association nor this magazine accepts responsibility for statements or claims made by advertisers for their products or services.

Editor & Publication Manager: Nancy Huddleston

Creative Director: Severyn Skoug

Art and Production: Reece Blaiser

Printing: Documation

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 3

7 IN THE NEWS

Page 4: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

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* Rebates are not applied at time of purchase — they will appear as an account credit on the same billing statement as your monthly purchases. Rebates issued if payment is made in accordance with the terms of the ExxonMobil Fleet Charge Account Agreement, eligible only for members of

**No set up, monthly or annual fees. Late-payment, over credit limit and other transaction fees may apply, refer to program terms and conditions for all applicable fees.The Exxon and Mobil Logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. The ExxonMobil Business Fleet & Fleet National cards are issued by WEX Bank.

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PHCC

Page 5: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

EXX 20160121

With the ExxonMobil Fleet Card Program you can:

ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National

Maximize your savings with this fee-free card**

no set up, monthly or annual fees

■ Save money with ongoing rebates

■ Manage your fuel use

■ Set purchase restrictions

■ Enjoy broad acceptance

■ Save time with online tools

■ Reduce unwanted spending

of all U.S. retail fueling

locations

acceptedat over

* Rebates are not applied at time of purchase — they will appear as an account credit on the same billing statement as your monthly purchases. Rebates issued if payment is made in accordance with the terms of the ExxonMobil Fleet Charge Account Agreement, eligible only for members of

**No set up, monthly or annual fees. Late-payment, over credit limit and other transaction fees may apply, refer to program terms and conditions for all applicable fees.The Exxon and Mobil Logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. The ExxonMobil Business Fleet & Fleet National cards are issued by WEX Bank.

SAVE

5¢/gallon*

association members...

Tom Lee, Regional Sales Manager616-675-0296 | [email protected]

PHCC

Jason Schrupp is the MN PHCC president. He can be reached at [email protected].

toP PRIoRItY Safety Should be Regularly Addressed

Safety needs to be one of our top priorities that we think about in the workplace. It is a topic that should be discussed on a regular basis in your company; however, in the hustle and bustle of our industry, it sometimes gets overlooked as we are consumed by the busyness of day-to-day operations in order to keep everything running smoothly.

Monthly safety meetings are a great way to discuss any safety issues that employees may have or might encounter on various job sites. There are many ways to go about setting up these safety meetings. You can choose to develop a safety program yourself, or hire a company to come in and develop a safety program for your business. One of the many benefits of being a PHCC member is that the PHCC can provide you with access to safety knowledge in an online library with information that targets specific issues in our industry. Also, the PHCC corporate partner, Federated Insurance, has safety programs that can be utilized within your business.

Setting up a safety program for your business will help ensure your employees are being trained on what they may encounter in the field, and your business is doing its part to help them stay safe in the workplace.

UPDATE FROM THE BOARDROOMFinance: We have a few months in the books and it looks like our finances are set up and we’ll have a great year.

Continuing Education: We are still scheduling CE classes for the year with IAPMO. If you need to attend a CE class, please check our schedule of classes at www.mnphcc.org.

Events: We are starting to plan for our 2017 Golf Extravaganza. This year the event will be Monday, Sept. 18, at the Town & Country Club in St. Paul.

You can choose to develop a safety program yourself, or hire a company to come in and develop a safety program for your business.

President’s Letter Jason Schrupp

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 5

THANK YOU TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Page 6: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

Executive Manager

by Jessica A. Bartram, CMP

BusY season We Have Tools to Help You

As many of you gear up for your busiest season, I want to remind you of all the tools that we have for our members. While there isn’t enough ink for me to talk about all of the dozens of tools, here are two that our members love.

EDUCATIONIf you’re not familiar with it, visit our

website, www.mnphcc.org, and click on the image that says “Education,” which will lead you to our entire event calendar. Peruse through the diverse types of classes and training that we and our partners offer.

For PHCC contractor members, your membership includes access to online training webinars through PHCC National.

These webinars cover a variety of business management and technical topics to make you and your business more successful. If you need assistance to access this, feel free to call PHCC National at 703-237-8100 and they’ll be happy to guide you.

2017 MANUFACTURER’S REP DIRECTORY

We have already distributed 3,000 books and have more for those who need it. The book contains a detailed directory of the manufacturer’s reps in the state and what lines and products they carry. A pdf version is on our website, or call us if you would like some hard copies!

OTHER NEEDS & EVENTSAs always, call us or visit our website for

anything you need! Lastly, save the date for our 2017 Annual

Golf Extravaganza. Last year was a sold-out event and we anticipate the same this year. See you Monday, Sept. 18, at Town & Country Club in St. Paul.

Jessica A. Bartram is the executive manager for MN PHCC. She can be reached at [email protected].

MN PHCC Contractor | April 20176

PLUMBING.

WE KNOW

And we have the extensive product line to prove it.Whether bidding on future projects or providing solutions for an urgent plumbing issue today, it’s critical to know you have the right resources in place. That’s why T&S off ers a vast selection of high-quality products that are easy to install and built to perform for years to come. And with a full assortment of in-stock items ready for same-day shipping, it’s no wonder contractors everywhere rely on T&S when it matters most.

Visit tsbrass.com and learn more about how we’re partnering with contractors just like you.

T&S plumbing products represented in Minnesota by: Hamel Associates, Inc. - 952-835-5570

TSB_0592 2015 PHCC Pubs.indd 8 12/18/14 10:45 AM

Page 7: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

IN THE NEWS

The 2017 PHCC Legislative Conference is June 13 - 14, at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill.

It’s the once-a-year opportunity to take PHCC’s unified message to Capitol Hill and meet face-to-face with key legislators making decisions that impact your business, employees, family and community. This interactive two-day event on Capitol Hill provides:

� Insider political analysis from a keynote speaker. � Targeted issues briefing and advocacy tips.

� Intimate Congressional reception with key lawmakers. � Legislative Breakfast at a well-known Capitol Hill restaurant. � In-person visits with your legislators and staff.

The Legislative Conference is the perfect opportunity to leverage the power of PHCC to influence important policies. This year, the conference will be right in the heart of Capitol Hill. This is the first time that the entire event will be hosted in downtown D.C. Registration is coming soon; go to www.phcccweb.org for all the up-to-date information.

A PHCC Foundation webinar, “Successfully Manage Your Review Presence Online: Establish a Process & Encourage Good Reviews” is May 17 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. (ET).

Whether your focus is on home performance retrofits, high-performance construction, healthy home renovations or otherwise, reviews continue to play a critical role in your online presence and reputation.

During this webinar, Peter Troast, CEO and Founder of Energy Circle, will discuss how to successfully manage your review presence online and establish a process to encourage good reviews. It is sponsored by Kohler and the PHCC Education Foundation. To register, go to www.phcc.org and look in the “Education & Events” section in the top toolbar and select “Event Calendar” to find it in the listing.

2017 LegIsLatIve ConfeRenCe Is June 13 - 14

WeBInaR: Manage YouR onLIne PResenCe

Here’s the Shocking Anchor That’s Holding Your Service Business Back

DATE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19LOCATION: WEBINARFor more information: www.phccweb.org

How to Get More of What You Want Out of Your Business

DATE: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7LOCATION: WEBINARFor more information: www.phccweb.org

2017 Chapter Leadership and Legislative Conference

DATES: MONDAY – WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12 - 14LOCATION: WASHINGTON, D.C.For more information: www.phccweb.org

MN PHCC 2017 Golf Extravaganza DATE: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18LOCATION: TOWN & COUNTRY CLUB, ST. PAULFor more information: www.mnphcc.org

uPCoMIng IndustRY eventsLook for more events and information on our website at www.mnphcc.org

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 7

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MN PHCC Contractor | April 20178

By Allison Deerr

There are more dangerous trades — firefighting and coal mining come to mind — but plumbing presents a long list of potential hazards. This is true because jobs and job sites vary widely.

Plumbers obviously face different risks in different work environments. Whether you are snaking a line, installing a water heater or soldering pipe on a multi-story apartment complex, a plumber, installer or

contractor needs to think: safety first.

“PHCC has a core belief in helping keep members’ workplaces safe,” said Chuck White, vice president of technical and code services for the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors - National Association.

“The PHCC Insurance, Safety, & Risk Management Committee is very involved in this process.

SAFETY FIRSTGear up to protect yourself on the job

Page 9: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

Cover Storyby Allison Deerr

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 9

“PHCC provides access to safety information, provides live and on-demand webinars that are accessible to members in an online library, sends out information targeting specific industry risk management issues, and works closely with insurance industry stakeholders such as corporate partner Federated Insurance,” White said.

Committee Chair David Frame from Bob Frame Plumbing Services Inc. in South Bend, Ind., stresses the importance of training the workforce in safe practices and the use of personal protection equipment as being the key to getting the job done right.

Plumbing pros looking for guidance in personal protection gear and safety practices also can avail themselves of videos and other materials provided by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. OSHA lists occupation-specific advisories on both potential health and safety hazards and protective equipment and practices.

KNOW THE HAZARDS“OSHA offers a wide selection of training

courses and educational programs to help broaden worker and employer knowledge on the recognition, avoidance and prevention of safety and health hazards in their workplaces. OSHA also offers training and educational materials designed to help businesses train their workers and comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Act,” according to the OSHA website.

Slips and falls are a common hazard for plumbers who working in wet environments on a daily basis. Plumbers also can be exposed to toxic or carcinogenic substances such as: mold, lead, asbestos, solder, adhesives and solvents. Then there’s the possibility of coming into contact with biohazards in raw sewage from septic tanks, sewage pipes or laying new pipes, or infection from bird or rodent droppings. The trade also means working in proximity to hot pipes, heating equipment, combustible materials, noise, electricity and extreme heat. Plumbers work in tight spaces, often with poor ventilation, and also can work at heights on ladders and scaffolds.

It’s no secret that some plumbing professionals think the only safety gear they need is a pair of gloves and some sturdy work boots. It’s easy to fall into the habit of viewing the work as routine, dirty and often messy, but not thinking of it as dangerous to life and limb.

SAFETY EQUIPMENTWhat kinds of safety equipment are

mandatory for the plumbing professional? It’s a relatively short list and definitely dictated by what kind of work you do.

For example, the plumber who does mostly residential fixture repair and drain cleaning may need less protective gear than the one working on massive commercial boiler systems. The key is to know what the potential hazards are and the best ways to reduce exposure.

We’re not just talking wearable protective equipment. The list also includes products or equipment that can eliminate or reduce the risk of taking those contaminants and biohazards from the job site to the main shop or home. For example, plumbers and plumbing contractors are well aware that there is a potential for illness from exposure to raw sewage and/or the contents of sewer and water piping. Have a system for cleaning all tools and changing clothes so potential problems don’t get carried home with you, and disinfect tools that come into contact with these potential hazards.

It may be stating the obvious, but essentially, you want to protect yourself from head to toe — hard hat to work boots. Here’s how:

Head protection: Hard hats are mandatory in construction areas. Whether you are climbing stairs,

riding a lift to higher floors or hauling a load of piping above ground level, if there’s a chance of falling building materials, don a hard hat. It’s not a bad idea to have a hard hat on when climbing under a house, into an attic or into any confined space where there’s a chance your head could meet a solid object with bad results.

Eye protection: Eye safety is a big issue. Experts say you need to wear safety glasses anytime

you are doing anything that could potentially damage your eyes. You’ll find that many chemicals come with advice not to use them without the appropriate eye protection. Are you snaking a drain, working under a sink, replacing a pipe, soldering, or using a power saw? Your eyes are a sensitive target for flying objects or chemicals. There are several levels of eye protection, so it’s a good idea to have a range of safety glasses on hand.

Hand Protection: Your hands may be exposed to chemicals and other potentially caustic materials

while working on plumbing projects and to chemicals, heat or flame when doing pipe joining. Choose heat-insulating work gloves and consider wearing latex gloves under leather gloves to protect against biohazards in drain lines.

Lung Protection: Projects that produce dust particles from sawing or sanding call for a

disposable face mask. Heavier duty respiratory equipment may be required in environments where the plumber may be exposed to germs and chemicals. It’s also advisable to bring detection equipment for carbon monoxide, smoke or gas.

Back and Knee Protection: Because plumbing work often means working in tight spaces, at awkward

angles, and/or dealing with heavy equipment or piping, backs and knees can be at risk for extra wear and tear or injury. Some form of back support is a good preventive measure. Sturdy knee pads or a skid-proof kneeler can cushion these vulnerable joints. Additional protection for backs and knees can come by using step-climbing ladders and hand trucks for carrying equipment, fixtures and materials, and easing strain on back and knee joints.

Foot protection: Plumbers work in wet environments, so there’s always a risk of slip-and-fall

injuries. Choose non-skid soled work boots with protective toes.

Agencies concerned with workplace safety advise keeping safety gear in good condition so it can do it’s intended job: reducing the incidence of illness, injury and death on the job.

[ continued on page 10 ]

Page 10: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

Cover Storyby Allison Deerr

MN PHCC Contractor | April 201710

Let’s be serious here. This is no place to cut corners. The pros suggest investing in the best protective gear you afford, keeping it in good working order, disinfecting gear or discarding it after exposure to chemicals and toxins, and stowing it for easy access. It’s also a good idea to have a well-stocked first aid kit if injuries do occur. And, encourage every employee to get training in first aid and CPR.

MAKE SURE IT WORKSWhen was the last time you inspected your

gear? Check the work truck for the presence of safety equipment and its condition — worn-out or non-working equipment isn’t of much use on the job. When new equipment is required, don’t even think of taking the cheap way out. Invest in top-of-the-line equipment. That’s an investment in your own health and safety and that of employees or co-workers. Experts also advise keeping gear in top working order.

Choosing the right tools for the job also matters, such as those equipped for ground fault circuit interrupters when working in wet environments to reduce the risk of shock. Working with tools that aren’t right for the job or that haven’t been maintained is also bad practice.

Along with that, do regular on-site checks of how work is accomplished. You might spot any lapse in safe working habits and the need for a training session or refresher course. Whether you are a solo operator, small crew or sizeable operation, consider having an outside safety professional check out how you work and make any reparative suggestions.

A little prevention goes a long way. Safety experts note that being thoroughly trained in the proper use of tools and equipment can prevent casualties in the workplace. That means more than just a quick demonstration; new tools should

be tried out in a controlled environment after reading any manufacturers’ operating instruction caveats. “I’ve been doing this for years” is no guarantee that you can anticipate every possible job site.

A final warning that shouldn’t be necessary for the plumbing professional: Use tools and equipment only for their intended purpose. The right equipment will make the job easier and more straightforward. The wrong tool for the job can lead to burns, electric shock, strains, sprains, pulled muscles and other injuries - no laughing matter.

Let’s be careful out there.

Allison Deerr, a long-time contributor to Reeves Journal, is a freelance writer in Anaheim, Calif. This article originally appeared in the Reeves Journal (www.reevesjournal.com) and is being reprinted with permission.

Someday someone will invent a word that combines

For now,

INNOVATION,

& FLE X IB IL I T Y.GREAT DESIGN

WE’RE STICKING WITH CYCLONE.

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Thank you for making Cyclone® Mxi the #1specifed commercial water heater.

The most impressive member of the Cyclone

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Cyclone Mxi features the latest in condensing

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common vent capability and extraordinary

up-to-98% effciency ratings, it’s a model

practically designed for your next project.

Find out how the Cyclone family can help you at

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CELEBRATING

• Perfect for municipal water

• Removes hardness• Removes chlorine and

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• Split tank design combines activated carbon and resin in one tank

Creates soft, odor-free city waters.

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• Perfect for well water• Exclusive Crystal-Right™

media removes hardness, iron, and manganese

• Raises low pH levels• Reduces iron and sulfur

bacteria odors

water-right.com/become-a-dealer800-777-1426

THE RIGHT WATERFOR LIFE.

You’re working hard to make a name for yourself among water pros. Your customers expect quality water — free of undesirable minerals and

unwanted contaminants. And you expect a treatment solution that is dependable and long-lasting.

Don’t risk your reputation on water treatment products that don’t last!

[ continued from page 9 ]

Page 11: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

Someday someone will invent a word that combines

For now,

INNOVATION,

& FLE X IB IL I T Y.GREAT DESIGN

WE’RE STICKING WITH CYCLONE.

www.1supply.com/120

Thank you for making Cyclone® Mxi the #1specifed commercial water heater.

The most impressive member of the Cyclone

commercial water heater family yet, the

Cyclone Mxi features the latest in condensing

and iCOMM™ remote monitoring. With

common vent capability and extraordinary

up-to-98% effciency ratings, it’s a model

practically designed for your next project.

Find out how the Cyclone family can help you at

www.hotwater.com

CELEBRATING

Page 12: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

Your customers will receive their rebate checks faster and you’ll earn your cash incentives for installing qualifying heating system rebates.

Residential customer rebates• Up to $500 for heating systems – including our new tankless water heater/air handler combination unit rebate

• Up to $50 for a programmable thermostat rebate – now available with or without a heating system installation

• $25 VISA® prepaid card for furnace and boiler tune-ups

• Up to $250 for water heaters – added this year: larger rebate for power-vent water heaters

• $75 for fireplace

For details and to submit residential rebate applications easily online, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/RebateScoop.

Commercial customer rebates• $3,500/MMBtuh input for condensing hot water boilers

• $1,800/MMBtuh input for high-efficiency hot water boilers

• $500/MMBtuh input for steam boilers

• Up to $400 for forced-air furnaces

• $300 for condensing unit heaters

• $250 for infrared heaters

• $150 for condensing condo packs

• And more!

More to cheer about! Your incentive check will arrive by mail or EFT as early as April for customer rebates processed Jan. 1 – March 31.

Customers Will Cheer When

Offer Rebates

Reminder: To issue your incentive checks, we need a current W-9 on file for your company.

Questions: Contact Clair McPherson at 612-321-4305. [email protected]

Over a Century of Trusted Service

We have tips for how to use customer rebates as a sales tool! Contact us today:

Residential

Kelly Chase 612-321-4484 [email protected]

Commercial

David Poretti 612-321-4386 [email protected]

Now’s a great time to submit rebate applications for qualifying installations already completed in 2017.

174030_MN Dealer PHCC Ad_Apr.indd All Pages 2/14/17 1:12 PM

Page 13: SAFETY FIRST - MN PHCC · 2017-08-04 · ExxonMobil Business Fleet ExxonMobil Fleet National Maximize your savings with this fee-free card** no set up, monthly or annual fees Save

Your customers will receive their rebate checks faster and you’ll earn your cash incentives for installing qualifying heating system rebates.

Residential customer rebates• Up to $500 for heating systems – including our new tankless water heater/air handler combination unit rebate

• Up to $50 for a programmable thermostat rebate – now available with or without a heating system installation

• $25 VISA® prepaid card for furnace and boiler tune-ups

• Up to $250 for water heaters – added this year: larger rebate for power-vent water heaters

• $75 for fireplace

For details and to submit residential rebate applications easily online, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/RebateScoop.

Commercial customer rebates• $3,500/MMBtuh input for condensing hot water boilers

• $1,800/MMBtuh input for high-efficiency hot water boilers

• $500/MMBtuh input for steam boilers

• Up to $400 for forced-air furnaces

• $300 for condensing unit heaters

• $250 for infrared heaters

• $150 for condensing condo packs

• And more!

More to cheer about! Your incentive check will arrive by mail or EFT as early as April for customer rebates processed Jan. 1 – March 31.

Customers Will Cheer When

Offer Rebates

Reminder: To issue your incentive checks, we need a current W-9 on file for your company.

Questions: Contact Clair McPherson at 612-321-4305. [email protected]

Over a Century of Trusted Service

We have tips for how to use customer rebates as a sales tool! Contact us today:

Residential

Kelly Chase 612-321-4484 [email protected]

Commercial

David Poretti 612-321-4386 [email protected]

Now’s a great time to submit rebate applications for qualifying installations already completed in 2017.

174030_MN Dealer PHCC Ad_Apr.indd All Pages 2/14/17 1:12 PM

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MN PHCC Contractor | April 201714

Lobbyist UpdateJim Gander

ReguLatIon Is neCessaRYBut Not Just For The Sake of Change

As I shared with you a few months back, our new plumbing code mandates shock absorbers at every “quick opening” valve. It failed to define a “quick opening” valve. As such, inspectors across the state have determined that everything from a dishwasher, to a water softener, to an electric eye flush valve is a quick opening.

Our old code simply required shock absorbers when a water hammer existed. For some reason, the decision was made that the common sense employed by our old code could or would offer some homeowner or building owner less of a plumbing system than they deserved. Thus, the un-common sense of the old adage to “level the playing field” seems to have caused the logic that would demand that all new building owners must now pay the price for a multitude of these devices - whether they need them or not.

CODE INTERPRETATIONOur good-intended inspectors are now

interpreting this code in about 100 different

ways. I have even had one inspector change his mind! This inspector thought that dishwashers and washing machines are the only “quick opening” valves in the home until Superior Mechanical did just as he requested, and he couldn’t find anything for us that needed correcting.

The new edict is refrigerator ice makers must also have shock absorbers. Several years ago, at the Plumbing Board meeting, I had a discussion with one of our plan reviewers who used Hillary Clinton’s now famous statement (long before she made it famous): “what difference does it make?” as he went on to say, “if everyone has to it.” Regulations must both be fair and reasonable, making everyone do it appears to be fair, but is it reasonable?

I must share with you that the water hammer (the issue this code promises to resolve) simply is not a health issue, and as a problem it rarely existed, seldom caused issues and was addressed completely by the old code.

OTHER CODE CHANGESOur new code also has a requirement

in it that virtually guarantees that all homes in a city must have a backwater valve installed for the lowest level fixtures. This backwater valve is supposed to make your home safe from any sewage blockage problem in the city main. At first glance this sounds reasonable, but if you are a plumber, you know this requires a lot more piping to separate the lower level fixtures in an entirely different system than the upper level fixtures. The backwater valve also requires maintenance, and there is simply no way to guarantee that when or if a blockage in the city main happens and the sewer backs up, that the flapper in the backwater valve is free from debris (toilet paper etc.). Any debris present would render the backwater valve useless.

I must share with you that although I have been a plumber for nearly 40 years, I have yet to witness such a back-up that would cause any such threat to a home or business. I am sure this has happened. But I am also sure that if the issue was so problematic, it would have required a drastic addition to our code to demand everyone in Minnesota pay for parallel drain systems. And I think that I would have seen it by now. I can also imagine a more frequent problem as we move forward with the flapper, because a drain cleaning company could potentially rod the drain without knowledge of the valve because someone removed the sticker that the code also requires.

RESIDENTIAL FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

Let’s also not forget to mention the (sort of) new requirement about residential fire protection systems. Yes, it expands our revenue potential; yes, it employs more

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Lobbyist UpdateJim Gander

plumbers; and yes, one home in several thousand may only be partially burned rather than a total loss. And yes, I can say without a doubt that it may potentially someday save a life in Minnesota, and that loss of life is worth the expense of all the fire protection systems we demand to be installed.

But, I can more easily be convinced that mandating driving SUVs by all people (rather than the baseball caps with wheels that a lot of our citizens are driving on our roads), will save more lives, than I can be convinced of what residential fire protection systems will save. Regulations must pass the muster of being both fair and reasonable to all parties affected. Making everyone do it seems fair; unless you’re the one who doesn’t need it, has a personal issue with it, or simply doesn’t want it.

My position in regard to regulation has always been conservative and founded in the faith that free enterprise will police the problems in commerce most of the time. In addition to founding and owning

Superior Mechanical, I have been in the code writing and interpreting business since 1994. During my tenure, I worked very hard at assuring code changes made sense and were fair for everyone involved; the public and the buyer who is paying for the plumbing system.

That being stated, I can buy into the necessity of permits, licensing and inspections to ensure fair and just enforcement of a fair code. Regulation can be costly, but “leveling the playing field” for the exercise of “leveling the playing field” doesn’t make sense, especially when it raises the cost of a particular service or product nearly 100 percent of the time. In our society, regulation is necessary. In my opinion plumbing codes should be limited to protecting the citizenry from health threats, the plumbing system and its proper operation from climatic threats, and the end user from receiving less than he/she is buying or reasonably expecting.

I simply cannot buy into strict over-burdensome regulation, permitting, inspections and licensing requirements when the code becomes unfair and unreasonable. If over regulation coupled with inconsistent enforcement and interpretation continues to degrade our industry’s honorable tradition and original theme of protecting the health of the nation, our good intentions and efforts will be overshadowed.

Jim Gander is the business development manager at Superior Mechanical in Rochester, Minn. He also serves on the MN PHCC Board of Directors and is the MN PHCC lobbyist. He can be reached at [email protected].

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 15

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Feature Storyby Samantha Sine

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor16

In the HVAC industry, safety is everything. Your technicians are constantly handling dangerous materials on a daily basis, and it’s important to technicians, their employers, and end users that employees are protected while on duty.

While it was once viewed by some as unmanly or unnecessary to wear safety gear and be trained on best safety practices, it’s now the new norm.

“Before it was tough (to get technicians to comply with safety standards). Ten to 12 years ago, it was a macho thing not to wear safety gear — we didn’t wear a helmet or anything. Now, we stress the importance of

safety to our technicians and installers with a lot of safety training,” said John Aliano, owner of Aksarben American Residential Services (ARS) of Omaha, Nebraska.

In addition, the pressure to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and standards is an industry must. On Dec. 1, 2016, OSHA released its “Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs in Construction” guidelines designed to help industry employers develop proactive programs to keep their workplaces safe. The recommendations are described as being particularly helpful to small- and

medium-sized contractors who lack safety and health specialists on staff.

Contractors can create a safety and health program using a number of simple steps that include training workers on how to identify and control hazards, inspecting the job site with workers to identify the problems with equipment and materials, and developing responses to possible emergency scenarios in advance.

WHERE TO STARTAs ongoing regulations continue to

reshape the industry, many contractors agree training on safety protocols must occur more than once a year. Many

seCuRIng staff safetY Keeping up With Ever-Changing Regulations

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Feature Storyby Samantha Sine

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 17

contractors have begun implementing mandatory, weekly training on a safety subject of their choice. A common theme is to use OSHA’s training.

Rob Minnick, CEO and president of Minnick’s Inc. in Laurel, Maryland, brings in an OSHA-certified safety manager once a month that is set up through his insurance agent.

“Be it CPR, driving safely, or working on ladders and scaffolds, there is a whole slew of anything and everything for him to concentrate on,” Minnick said. “He gives me a list and goes through each subject once a month.”

At the core, contractors should consider hitting on the key factors at play when it comes to technicians’ safety, such as protecting them from hazards related to utilizing hazardous materials and chemicals, machinery and equipment, electrical issues, falls and more.

Once you’ve implemented someone to conduct the training, be diligent. Some

contractors, such as Todd Kletz, owner of One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Virginia Beach, Virginia, offer different trainings every day, but always makes sure to include safety topics on at least one of the days.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?Now that you’ve trained them, how do you

ensure they stick with it when they’re out on the job? First off, make sure you’re manning your technicians with proper safety gear at all times, regardless of size or budget.

“Small businesses are inundated with regulations and often don’t have the resources and manpower to address all the requirements, including new safety standards,” said Mike McCullion, director, market sectors and safety, Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA).

Some business owners have found it to be very beneficial to incentivize and organize technicians into safety teams of six to eight people. If someone has an accident, it’s a hit

against their team. This procedure serves as a sense of peer pressure to do things right.

Teams are incentivized to win prizes and are ranked based on their safety skills. If someone messes up in the field, points are docked from the team. To keep numbers strong, friendly competitions are waged with the ultimate goal of keeping everyone safe and healthy.

Another common theme is to give away prizes, hold safety contests, or provide free paid days off to probe technicians into staying on track with their safety measures.

And one last tip to consider, don’t forget to pair your top safety technicians with new technicians or those who struggle to follow best safety practices. A solid mentor can mold a technician into a safety guru in no time.

Samantha Sine is Legislation Editor of The NEWS. She can be reached at [email protected]. This article was reprinted with permission from The NEWS (www.archnews.com).

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MEMBER INFORMATION Please provide your company information below as you would like it listed in the membership directory.

ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEESPlease provide employee information for those that you want to receive PHCC communications regarding CE classes, events, lobbying updates, association updates, industry information, etc. Attach additional names if necessary.

Name: ______________________________________________________________Phone: _____________________________________________________________Email: ______________________________________________________________

Name: ______________________________________________________________Phone: _____________________________________________________________Email: ______________________________________________________________

PAYMENT INFORMATION

oVisa oMasterCard oAMEX oCheck # ___________ (payable to MN PHCC)Card Number: _________________________________ Exp. Date: __________Name on Card: _____________________________________________________Signature: _________________________________________________________

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONJoin online at www.mnphcc.org or complete the application below!

PRODUCTS / SERVICES

Please select which products /services your company provides:

PlumbingoContractor Installation/ Repair/MaintenanceoParts/Tools WholesaleroParts/Tools Manufacturer

HVACoContractor Installation/ Repair/MaintenanceoParts/Tools WholesaleroParts/Tools Manufacturer

MechanicaloContractor Installation/ Repair/MaintenanceoParts/Tools WholesaleroParts/Tools Manufacturer

oBusiness Service Provider for Contractors, i.e. utility, CPA services, etc.

oOTHER: Please list the specific service(s) you offer: _________________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

MEMBERSHIP TYPEPlease select your membership type below.

oCONTRACTOR Company - $1,350 $1,095…overa20%discountforfirst-timemembers!oASSOCIATE Company - $500

3

5

2

1

4

Company Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Primary Contact: _______________________________________________________________________________________________Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________City: _____________________________________________________________________State: ______________Zip: ______________ Phone: _________________________________________________ Fax: _________________________________________________Email: ________________________________________________Website: _______________________________________________Is your company: oUnion oNon-Union (This information will not be published but is used for us to track our membership demographics) Would you like your company information to be listed in the MN PHCC membership directory? oYes oNo (Please note that your information will be listed if an option is not selected)

2017

PHCC membership dues are not deductible as a charitable contribution for U.S. Federal income tax purposes, but may be deductible as a business expense. For 2017, PHCC estimates that 5% constitutes lobbying expense.

Membership is at the company level and ALL employees receive the benefits! Complete details about the benefits can be found on our website at www.mnphcc.org. Company membership runs for one calendar year, from January 1 - December 31.

Your MN PHCC membership will be conveniently renewed at the start of each calendar year using the credit card noted above. This will guarantee uninterruptedaccesstobenefits,servicesandsubscriptions.AnemailwillbesenttoyouinDecemberofeachyearasareminderandwillincludetheupcomingyears’membershipfee.Ifyoudonotwishtoproceedwithautomaticrenewalforanupcomingmembershipyear,youmustoptoutbeforethesecondweekofDecember by emailing [email protected].

By providing your credit card number above, you authorize MN PHCC to annually renew your MN PHCC membership and charge the applicable membership fee.

Sendinyourcompletedapplicationandfullpaymentrightawaytobeginreceivingbenefits!

PLEASE SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORMS WITH FULL PAYMENT TO:MN PHCC-5353WayzataBlvd,Ste350,MinneapolisMN55416Phone:(952)564-3060|Fax:(952)252-8096| [email protected]

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JASON SCHRUPP PresidentHanson’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc.P. O. Box 301, Perham, MN [email protected]

JOHN RADOTICH Vice President & Range PHCC LiaisonRadotich, Inc.5556 Hwy 73 N, Chisholm, MN [email protected]

MITCHELL DIERS Sec. / Treas. & Duluth PHCC LiaisonNorthern Mech./Plbg. Contrs. Assoc.802 Garfield Ave., Duluth, MN [email protected]

JEREMY CARLSON Immediate Past PresidentCarlson Duluth Co. & Randall’s Heating and Cooling2901 Helm St, Duluth, MN [email protected]

JENI BLAYLOCK Director & Metro PHCC Liaison Blaylock Plumbing7731 4th Ave S, Richfield, MN [email protected]

JIM GANDER Director Superior Mechanical1244 60th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN [email protected]

TOM JOHNSON Director TM Johnson Bros645 Emerson St N, Cambridge, MN [email protected]

CHAD MARZITELLI Director & Wholesalers RepresentativeGoodin Co2700 North Second St, Minneapolis, MN 55411612-791-5587 [email protected]

KELLY MICHEL Director & Manufacturers Rep RepresentativeMichel Sales Agency521 Phalen Blvd, St. Paul, MN [email protected]

PAUL RONNENBERG Director Ronny’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc.P. O. Box 279, Byron, MN [email protected]

ANGIE WESTMAN Director (Ex-Officio)Westman Plumbing6205 Upton Avenue S, Richfield, MN [email protected]

JESSICA BARTRAM Executive Manager (Ex-Officio)MN PHCC5353 Wayzata Blvd, Ste 350, Minneapolis, MN [email protected]

LOCAL ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

DULUTH PHCCMITCHELL DIERSExecutive DirectorThe Northern Mechanical/Plumbing Contractors AssnDuluth, MN 218-727-6227 [email protected]

TOM CONRADSec./Treas.BendTec Inc.Duluth, MN218-722-0205 [email protected]

METRO PHCCJENI BLAYLOCKPresidentBlaylock Plumbing Co.Richfield, [email protected]

LUKE WESTMANSec./Treas.Aitkin, [email protected]

IRON RANGE PHCCBRIAN HEISELPresidentHeisel Brothers Inc.Virginia, MN218-741-8381 [email protected]

JOHN RODORIGOSec./Treas.Commercial Refrigeration SystemsVirginia, MN218-749-6810 [email protected]

For information about the Minnesota Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors, call the main office at 952-564-3060 or contact one of the following Board of Directors:

YOUR MN PHCC LEADERSHIP

STATE ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor 21

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To learn more about our new Drive S.A.F.E.

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A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR APRIL ADVERTISERSThe following companies show their support for the MN PHCC by advertising in the Contractor magazine.

If you are interested in advertising in the MN PHCC Contractor, please contact: Todd Cusumano at 772.402.5330 or [email protected]

Ace Supply Co. ........................................................................................ 17, 18Bennerotte Marketing ................................................................................... 14CenterPoint Energy ................................................................................. 12, 13Federated Mutual Insurance ......................................................................... 22First Supply ................................................................................................... 11Goodin Co. .................................................................................................. IFCMinnesota Energy Resources ....................................................................... 15SPS Companies ............................................................................................. 16T&S .................................................................................................................. 6Water Heaters Only ...................................................................................... IBCWater-Right ................................................................................................... 10WEX ................................................................................................................. 4

April 2017 | MN PHCC Contractor22

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COVER STORYby Allison Deerr

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In the spirit of fiscal responsibility, your MN PHCC Board of Directors has decided to begin charging $1 per issue/$12 per year for a subscription to the Contractor to non-members who currently receive our magazine. Remember: your support of the MN PHCC keeps our association a strong and viable resource for all our members and those within the p-h-c industry.

MN-PHCC non-members are asked to do one of the following three.

1. Become a member and receive the magazine for free. Go to www.mnphcc.org and click on “membership” for more details on the benefits of membership.

2. Subscribe to the Contractor for $12 ($1/issue) per year. Return the form on the wrap from the ouside of the February magazine, or go to www.mnphcc.org, to subscribe.

3. Provide us with your email address and we will send you an electronic version of each issue once it’s released. This is at no cost to you.

If you choose not to respond to this request, then we will remove your name from our mailing list. If you change your mind in the future, sign up on our website, www.mnphcc.org, or give us a call at 952-564-3060.

LAST CHANCE

For Non-Members to subscribe to the magazine

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MN PHCC CONTRACTOR5353 Wayzata Blvd.Suite 350Minneapolis, MN 55416www.mnphcc.org