Plumbing NC I study materials
Plumbing NC I study resources

Plumbing NC I study plan

Plumbing NC I · Give each week a clear focus.

8 weeks · About 6 hours per week

Week 1

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.

Week 2

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.

Week 3

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.

Week 4

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.

Week 5

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.

Week 6

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.

Week 7

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.

Week 8

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.