Plumbing Industry Organizations

World Plumbing Council.The World Plumbing Council is an international organization whose member associations include representatives from all five continents. Its stated mission is to "unite the world plumbing industry to safeguard and protect the environment and the health of nations, for the benefit of all". The WPC works to develop and promote the image and standards of the plumbing industry worldwide, placing particular emphasis on training, education and the exchange of ideas. It aims to create an awareness of plumbers' role in protecting the environment through the provision of safe water and sanitation, and the conservation of natural resources.

UK members of the WPC include the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC), the British Plumbing Employers Council (BPEC), CORGI (the Council for Registered Gas Installers), the Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (IPHE), the Joint Industry Board for Plumbing and Mechanical Engineering Services (JIB) and the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers' Federation (SNIPEF)

Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors. With offices in Coventry, the APHC is the leading employers' trade association for the plumbing and heating industry in England and Wales. Its membership stands at over 1200, ranging from sole traders to large enterprises. APHC membership is intended to indicate that the contractor is reputable, reliable and works to an enhanced standard.

The British Plumbing Employers Council. BPEC is the government-recognized national training organization for the UK plumbing industry. Its role is to set the standards for vocational qualifications and ensure training needs are met through high quality provision. BPEC operates from offices in Edinburgh.

CORGI (The Council for Registered Gas Installers). CORGI was formed in 1970 in response to a deadly gas blast in London's Canning Town. It works to a remit prescribed by the Health and Safety Executive and maintains the mandatory register of competent UK gas installers with the aim of ensuring that all gas work is carried out safely. Close to 100,000 individual operatives are currently recognized by CORGI.

Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (IPHE). Voluntary professional body and educational charity that works to promote high plumbing and engineering standards in the interests of the public. The IPHE was founded in 1906 and boasts a modern-day membership of over 12,000. It is the primary professional body for plumbers in the UK.

Joint Industry Board for Plumbing and Mechanical Engineering Services. The JIB provides benefit schemes to plumbing industry employers and their operatives. It sets rates of pay and allowances for its members.

Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers' Federation. The national trade association for plumbing and heating employers in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with a membership of almost 1000 firms. It offers a range of services and benefits to members, including a unique Guarantee of Work scheme.