LeadFree by 2026 and About Time!
29 May 2024
Written By Bossman Harry
Harry's Ramblings: Lead-Free and About Time!
Welcome back to Harry’s Ramblings, the go-to blog for plumbing wisdom sprinkled with a bit of humour! Today, let’s dive into a topic flowing right through our industry: the shift to lead-free taps and fittings by 2026.
As a proud Waterworx Plumbing & Gas Ltd member, I can’t stress enough how vital this change is. Not only does it keep us compliant with regulations, but it also helps ensure our families have clean, safe drinking water. With the guidance of the Master Plumbers Association and the PGDB, we’re all set to make a splash in this transition.
Now, let’s get down to “lead-free bronze” tacks. Lead exposure is a serious business—it can cause many health issues, especially for our little ones. From brain development hiccups to kidney damage, lead is one pesky pipemate you don’t want around!
Switching to lead-free means safer water for everyone, improving cognitive health, enhancing kidney function, and giving peace of mind to families. That’s a win-win if you ask me!
Starting in 2026, we hope NZ will catch up with Australia and have a mandatory watermark on lead-free fixtures. This little symbol signifies that your plumbing isn't just compliant; it promises quality and safety. So, as you wash those dishes, you can do so confidently, knowing your water isn’t harbouring hidden nasty surprises. Master Plumbers are busy advocating this.
Homeowners now’s the time to check your plumbing! If you have older fittings, it might be time for an upgrade. And for my fellow plumbers, let’s stay proactive. Keep attending workshops, engage with training through the PGDB, and stay sharp—your clients will appreciate your expertise!
In short, our march toward lead-free plumbing isn’t just a challenge—it’s an opportunity. Together, we can embrace this change and ensure our industry remains bright, safe, and lead-free!
Give our team a shout if you want us to replace your taps or pipework.
Stay safe, stay lead-free, and until next time, keep those pipes flowing!
— Harry
Cheers,