5214 — Pipe fitters

What this occupation covers

Pipe fitters install pipe systems and maintain and repair pipes in major utilities, industrial and construction settings and sites.

Typical duties

examines drawings and specifications to determine layout of piping

measures and cuts required lengths of copper, lead, steel, iron, aluminium or plastic piping using hand or machine tools

installs pipes for heating, ventilating, fire prevention, water and similar systems in industrial and construction settings, including oil rigs and terminals, sewerage systems and other mains networks

fits piping into position and joins sections by welding, soldering, cementing, fusing, screwing or by other methods

tests pipe work for leaks and makes necessary adjustments

Entry routes and qualifications

There are no formal academic entry requirements, although some employers may expect entrants to possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is usually via apprenticeship including practical experience and technical training. NVQs/SVQs at levels 2 and 3 are available.

Sponsorship information

Medium Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

Temporary Shortage List: Pipe fitters. Certificate of Sponsorship must be issued before 31 December 2026.

DBS assessment

No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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