Calls have been made for Government leaders and health professionals to acknowledge that licensed plumbing contractors provide an essential service in the fight against the coronavirus.
As the coronavirus pandemic strengthens its hold, the Master Plumbers Association of South Australia (MPASA) is calling for government leaders and health professionals to acknowledge the public health role of licensed plumbing contractors.
On Tuesday MPASA CEO, Andrew Clarke, said that licensed plumbing contractors provide an essential service that many people take for granted.
“From the highest level of policymakers down to ordinary Australians in their suburban homes, the common attitude is that plumbers are just ‘tradies’. The truth is that without these qualified professionals, Australia would have a permanent and potentially catastrophic public health problem.”
“Licensed plumbing contractors are responsible for installing and maintaining everything involved in providing clean drinking water to removing sewage and other wastewater. Without them, we would always live the risk of widespread water-borne diseases.”
Mr Clarke said that the coronavirus pandemic is highlighting the gap between public perceptions and reality.
“Policymakers must get the message out that the current emphasis on enhanced personal hygiene means professional plumbers are more essential than ever,” he said.
“For example, the virus may survive in sewerage systems. Just one blocked drain that exposes people to contaminated water could be responsible for spreading the coronavirus. So could a faulty water heater that stops a household from washing themselves thoroughly. Nobody should hesitate to call a plumber if they need work done in their home or business.”
“In addition, government must take steps to ensure that plumbers have access to all the protective personal equipment they need including facemasks, goggles, protective suits and gloves. Plumbers put their own health at risk when they protect the public.”
Mr Clarke concluded by stating: “Most licensed plumbing contractors are small business owners, we welcome the Federal Governments’ announcement that they will be offering small to medium businesses as well as sole traders financial support through the various stimulus offerings. It is vital for Australia that our plumbing industry survives this crisis.”