Lesson Plan: Laying Pipes in Trenches

Course: Cert 4 Plumbing Duration: 2 hours

Objective: - To teach TAFE students the proper techniques and procedures for laying pipes in trenches. - To ensure students understand the importance of safety measures and compliance with relevant regulations. - To provide hands-on experience in laying pipes in trenches.

Materials: - Presentation slides - Whiteboard and markers - Safety equipment (hard hats, safety glasses, gloves) - Measuring tape - Shovels - Pipes (PVC or other suitable material) - Pipe fittings - Spirit level - Compactor - Backfill material (sand or gravel) - Water source for testing

Lesson Plan:

1. Introduction (10 minutes) - Welcome the students and introduce the topic of laying pipes in trenches. - Explain the importance of proper pipe installation and compliance with regulations. - Discuss the potential hazards and safety measures associated with trench work.

2. Presentation (20 minutes) - Use presentation slides to explain the different types of pipes commonly used in plumbing. - Discuss the various pipe fittings and their purposes. - Explain the importance of accurate measurements and proper alignment of pipes. - Highlight the relevant regulations and standards that need to be followed during pipe installation.

3. Safety Briefing (10 minutes) - Emphasize the importance of wearing appropriate safety equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and gloves. - Discuss the need for proper trench shoring and the dangers of cave-ins. - Explain the importance of identifying and avoiding underground utilities before digging.

4. Demonstration (20 minutes) - Demonstrate the correct techniques for digging a trench, ensuring proper depth and width. - Show how to measure and cut pipes accurately. - Explain the process of joining pipes using fittings and solvent welding (if using PVC pipes). - Demonstrate the use of a spirit level to ensure proper alignment of pipes.

5. Hands-on Practice (40 minutes) - Divide the students into small groups. - Provide each group with the necessary materials, including pipes, fittings, shovels, and measuring tape. - Instruct the groups to dig a trench of appropriate depth and width. - Guide the students in measuring and cutting the pipes to fit the trench. - Supervise the students as they join the pipes using fittings and solvent welding. - Ensure the students use a spirit level to check the alignment of the pipes. - Instruct the students to backfill the trench using suitable material and compact it properly.

6. Testing and Evaluation (10 minutes) - Discuss the importance of pressure testing the installed pipes to ensure there are no leaks. - Explain the process of conducting a pressure test using water and a pressure gauge. - Evaluate the students’ work by checking for proper alignment, secure fittings, and a successful pressure test.

7. Conclusion and Recap (10 minutes) - Summarize the key points covered in the lesson. - Address any questions or concerns raised by the students. - Emphasize the importance of following safety protocols and regulations in plumbing work.

Note: This lesson plan can be adjusted based on the specific requirements and resources available at the TAFE institution.