Plumbing NC I study plan
Plumbing NC I · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Pipe cutting, threading, bending, and joining methods & Use of hand tools, power tools, and plumbing equipment
Identify and name the parts of a manual pipe cutter, threading die, and reamer, and explain the function of each.
Demonstrate the correct sequence for cutting and reaming a steel pipe, including measuring, marking, clamping, and cutting.
List the safety precautions for using a power threader and a portable band saw, and describe the PPE required for each.
Calculate the take-up allowance for a given pipe size and thread type, and explain why it matters for assembly.
Your checkpoint
Create a one-page checklist for safe and correct pipe cutting and threading, including PPE, tool setup, and take-up allowance for 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch pipe.
Pipe cutting, threading, bending, and joining methods & Use of hand tools, power tools, and plumbing equipment
Compare solvent-welded PVC, soldered copper, and threaded steel joints in terms of tools, materials, and safety hazards.
Practice making a solvent-welded PVC joint and a soldered copper joint under supervision, following the correct procedure for each.
Identify common defects in each joint type and explain how to avoid them.
Select the correct abrasive, flux, and solder for a given copper tube size and application.
Your checkpoint
Produce a joint-quality report with photos or sketches of one PVC and one copper joint you made, noting pass/fail criteria and areas for improvement.
Interpretation of plumbing plans, drawings, and specifications & Measurement, layout, and material take-off
Interpret the symbols and line types used on a typical plumbing floor plan, riser diagram, and isometric drawing.
Extract the pipe sizes, fittings, and fixtures from a simple plumbing drawing and list them in a take-off table.
Measure and mark pipe runs on a wall or floor according to a given drawing, using a tape measure and level.
Calculate the total length of pipe required for a small bathroom group, including allowances for fittings and waste.
Your checkpoint
Complete a material take-off for a single bathroom group from a provided drawing, showing pipe lengths, fitting counts, and fixture quantities.
Installation of water supply, sanitary, and drainage piping systems & Workplace communication and occupational health and safety (OHS) practices
Describe the purpose and function of vents, traps, and cleanouts in a drainage system.
Explain the difference between a wet vent and a dry vent, and identify where each is permitted.
Identify the hazards of working in a trench and list the steps to take before entering an excavation.
Demonstrate the correct use of a gas monitor and explain the action levels for oxygen and hydrogen sulfide.
Your checkpoint
Write a trench-entry safety checklist that includes atmospheric testing, access/egress, and spoil-pile placement.
Installation of water supply, sanitary, and drainage piping systems & Installation and maintenance of plumbing fixtures and appurtenances
Install a water closet (toilet) on a closet flange, including setting the wax ring, securing the bowl, and checking for leaks.
Install a lavatory faucet and drain assembly, and connect the trap to the wall outlet.
Explain the purpose of an air gap and a vacuum breaker, and identify where each is required.
Test a newly installed fixture for leaks and proper drainage, and document the results.
Your checkpoint
Create a step-by-step installation guide for a toilet and a lavatory, including tools, materials, and leak-test procedures.
Workplace communication and occupational health and safety (OHS) practices & Interpretation of plumbing plans, drawings, and specifications
Interpret the plumbing sections of a building code or specification to determine the minimum pipe size for a given fixture.
Explain the role of a permit and inspection in plumbing work, and list the stages at which inspections are typically required.
Communicate a technical issue to a supervisor or client in plain language, both verbally and in writing.
Identify the safety data sheet (SDS) information for a common plumbing chemical and describe the first-aid measures.
Your checkpoint
Write a short email to a client explaining a delay due to a failed inspection, including the cause, the corrective action, and the new timeline.
Use of hand tools, power tools, and plumbing equipment & Measurement, layout, and material take-off
Use a level, plumb bob, and laser level to establish grade and alignment for a drainage run.
Calculate the fall required for a given pipe length and diameter to achieve the correct slope.
Measure and cut pipe supports and hangers to the correct length, and install them at the required spacing.
Demonstrate the safe use of a hammer drill to anchor supports to masonry.
Your checkpoint
Produce a layout plan for a 20-foot drainage run showing the slope, support locations, and calculated elevations at each end.
Pipe cutting, threading, bending, and joining methods & Installation of water supply, sanitary, and drainage piping systems & Installation and maintenance of plumbing fixtures and appurtenances
Assemble a mock-up of a water supply and drainage system that includes at least one fixture, one vent, and one cleanout.
Pressure-test the water supply system and perform a flow test on the drainage system.
Identify and correct any leaks or code violations in the mock-up.
Review the entire study plan and list three areas where you need further practice.
Your checkpoint
Complete a mock-up installation that passes a pressure test and a visual inspection, and submit a self-assessment with photos and a list of next steps.
Milestones
Week 2: Can cut, ream, and thread a steel pipe and make a leak-free PVC and copper joint without direct supervision.
Week 4: Can extract a complete material take-off from a simple plumbing drawing and explain the function of vents and traps.
Week 6: Can install a toilet and a lavatory, test them for leaks, and explain the permit and inspection process.
Week 8: Can assemble and test a mock-up water supply and drainage system that meets code requirements for slope, venting, and support.