Code of Massachusetts Regulations 248 CMR - BOARD OF STATE EXAMINERS OF PLUMBERS AND GAS FITTERS
248 CMR – Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters
Authority:
248 CMR is promulgated under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 142, Sections 25–36, giving the Board authority to license, regulate, and discipline plumbers and gas fitters in the Commonwealth.
Purpose:
Protect public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring proper installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing and gas systems.
Establish licensure requirements, professional standards, and disciplinary procedures.
Regulate apprenticeships and continuing education for plumbing and gas fitting professionals.
1. Scope and Definitions (248 CMR 1.00)
Key Terms Defined:
Plumber: A professional licensed to install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems, including water, waste, and drainage systems.
Gas Fitter: A licensed professional authorized to install, maintain, or repair gas systems.
Apprentice: An individual in supervised training to become a licensed plumber or gas fitter.
Board: Refers to the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.
Objective:
Clarify which individuals and work activities fall under the Board’s regulatory authority.
2. Licensure (248 CMR 2.00 – 4.00)
Types of Licenses
Journeyman Plumber / Gas Fitter: Licensed professional who can work independently under state regulations.
Master Plumber / Gas Fitter: Licensed to supervise journeymen, apprentices, and take responsibility for projects.
Apprentice: Works under direct supervision of licensed professionals while completing training hours.
Requirements
Completion of approved apprenticeship program or equivalent training hours.
Passing state examination for the relevant license.
Application with proof of experience, education, and character references.
Renewal every 2–3 years with continuing education in plumbing and gas safety standards.
3. Scope of Practice (248 CMR 5.00 – 6.00)
Plumbers May:
Install and repair water supply, drainage, and sewage systems.
Inspect plumbing systems for compliance with state codes.
Repair plumbing fixtures and maintain sanitation standards.
Gas Fitters May:
Install and maintain gas piping, appliances, and related safety devices.
Conduct inspections to ensure code compliance.
Respond to emergency gas leaks in coordination with safety regulations.
Limitations:
Unlicensed individuals may not perform plumbing or gas work.
Certain complex projects may require master licensure or special permits.
4. Supervision and Apprenticeships (248 CMR 7.00 – 8.00)
Apprentices must work under direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or master.
Supervising professionals are responsible for ensuring apprentices follow all safety and code requirements.
Apprenticeship programs must meet Board-approved standards, including a minimum number of on-the-job training hours and classroom instruction.
5. Standards of Conduct and Safety (248 CMR 9.00)
Licensed professionals must comply with state plumbing and gas codes.
Must ensure installations meet safety standards for public health and fire prevention.
Avoid conflicts of interest and unethical business practices.
Report unsafe installations or hazards discovered during work.
Key Ethical Obligations:
Protect public safety.
Maintain integrity and honesty in all business dealings.
Document work and inspections appropriately.
6. Complaints, Investigations, and Discipline (248 CMR 10.00 – 12.00)
Grounds for Discipline
The Board may act against a licensee for:
Practicing without a valid license.
Violating state plumbing or gas codes.
Negligence or unsafe work practices.
Misrepresentation of qualifications or credentials.
Fraudulent or unethical behavior in business practices.
Disciplinary Measures
Reprimand or advisory letter.
Suspension or revocation of license.
Fines or penalties for code violations.
Required retraining or remediation.
Process
Complaints may come from the public, employers, or other professionals.
The Board investigates allegations, holds hearings if needed, and may impose sanctions.
Immediate action is possible if public safety is at risk (e.g., unsafe gas installations).
7. Case Law and Legal Context
Licensure Compliance: Practicing without a license is a strict violation, and the Board has authority to enforce penalties.
Safety Violations: Cases of unsafe installations can lead to both Board discipline and civil liability if harm occurs.
Supervision Responsibility: Master plumbers or gas fitters are legally responsible for work performed by apprentices or journeymen under their supervision.
Professional Misconduct: Misrepresentation or fraud in licensing applications or work can result in license revocation.
Principle: Massachusetts courts generally defer to the Board’s reasonable interpretation of 248 CMR, particularly when public safety is concerned.
8. Practical Takeaways for Plumbers and Gas Fitters
Maintain valid licensure and complete required continuing education.
Work strictly within your licensed scope and follow all plumbing/gas codes.
Supervise apprentices responsibly and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Document inspections and installations thoroughly.
Respond promptly to Board inquiries or complaints.
Understand that violations can lead to discipline ranging from fines to license revocation
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