It\’s time to step up our game in maintenance, Victoria!
Reflecting on mVictoria, it’s time we step up in fire maintenance!
Reflecting on the Past
I recall a time when smartphones were rare and the internet was new. We relied on outdated standards and communicated through Nokia 3110s. Tools like FaceTime or YouTube were unimaginable for our work.
Do We Need FaceTime for Startups?
We have group FaceTime calls for system startups today, but are they necessary? Sometimes, a regular phone call seems just as efficient.
The Unsung Role of Maintenance
As a maintenance fitter and business owner, our role is often undervalued compared to installers. We don’t make huge profits, and the work is complex. Even a small mistake in data can cost us a client. This job demands resilience.
The Overlooked Role of Sprinkler Fitters in Victoria’s Fire Maintenance Industry
Victoria’s fire industry has strict regulations for installation, but the importance of sprinkler fitters in maintenance is often overlooked.
Diverse Backgrounds in Fire Maintenance
Sprinkler fitters bring a wide range of experiences to their roles. Personally, I completed three fire industry apprenticeships, which is common in our field. Many fitters come from diverse backgrounds like real estate, welding, marketing, or even families with sprinkler fitting traditions. These unique perspectives enrich the industry.
Maintenance as a Secondary Priority
Despite their importance, sprinkler fitters’ contributions to maintenance are often overshadowed. Many companies view maintenance as a secondary function, focusing more on fast installations and immediate profits, with little thought given to long-term maintenance needs.
Rising Complexity in the Industry
With the expansion of high-rise buildings and the increasing use of fire panels and sprinkler systems, the industry has become more complex. The shortage of experienced building managers and lack of corporate oversight complicates matters. Apprentices often receive minimal training in maintenance, resulting in a lack of essential skills.
Questionable Practices in a Growing Market
The booming fire maintenance market has attracted many new companies, some run by inexperienced contractors. Concerns are growing over poor practices, including hiring unqualified personnel. A major maintenance company established in the late ’90s lacks leaders with hands-on expertise in sprinkler fitting, plumbing, or electrical work, despite having a large workforce. This gap raises concerns about the industry’s future direction.
Raising the Standards Together
Selecting a fire protection company requires research into their track record and procedures. A well-informed choice can make all the difference. Let’s unite, Victoria, and elevate the standards of our fire maintenance industry!
Drew
