A Study on establishment of a comprehensive skill recognition framework for plumbers in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The plumbing profession is experiencing rapid growth in Sri Lanka, yet the term "plumber" lacks legal significance in the country. Consequently, anyone can engage in plumbing work, including installations, repairs, operations, maintenance, and planning, without regulation. This absence of proper plumbing legislation has led to unqualified individuals undertaking plumbing tasks, resulting in severe health and environmental hazards, as well as subpar work quality. To address this pressing issue, this study proposes the development of a skill recognition framework tailored to plumbers, with a primary focus on reforming the plumber licensing system. Employing a mixed-method research approach, the study conducted both a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews with the target group. In summary, this research explores the significance of licensing systems, delineates the challenges arising from the absence of a comprehensive plumber licensing system, investigates existing licensing models in other countries, and offers recommendations for structuring and implementing a plumber skill recognition system in Sri Lanka through introducing plumber licencing system. The study identifies six key components of the licensing system, including their subcomponents. Within this framework, two licensing categories are proposed: Journeymen plumbers' licenses and Master plumbers' licenses, each with defined eligibility qualifications and experience. Recommendations are provided for the composition of the licensing board, the structure of licensing examinations, and the duration of license validity. Furthermore, the study identifies potential barriers to implementation and suggests strategies to mitigate these obstacles. Additionally, recommendations are presented to ensure the long-term sustainability of the proposed system. The findings of this study can serve as a foundational resource for policymakers, practitioners, and future researchers interested in advancing the plumbing profession and its regulation in Sri Lanka. Key Words: Plumber, Licensing, NVQ, Framework, Master Plumber, Journeyman Plumber