The second edition of Gasfitting brings this classic text up to date for the requirements of the modern teaching environment. Written in a clear, accessible style, and with an abundance of illustrations and photographs, it covers all the essential competencies of the gasfitting component of the Plumbing and Services Training Package, and provides a depth of underlying knowledge to help the student towards a thorough understanding of the subject.

The material presented here is able to be applied generally. However, it should be noted that existing local conditions and requirements may differ. Where such a situation occurs, the local regulations must take precedence over the information supplied here. Climatic conditions, for example, vary considerably and may dictate local variations in regulations and practice. Differences between the states and between countries must also be taken into account. The principles, however, remain the same, and the text can therefore be read in conjunction with these requirements.

Although the gas industry in Australia is controlled by companies that vary from large government and public utilities to small councils and private companies, a national standard for the installation and testing of gas appliances issued by the Australian Gas Association is generally followed by all gas companies. A copy of the current code for the installation of gas burning appliances and equipment is considered essential.

The basic hand skills required to carry out an installation and fix gas appliances are very similar to those required to carry out a plumbing installation. Additional knowledge and skills must be acquired by the plumber in order to be capable of installing, commissioning and servicing gas appliances to the standards demanded in the gas industry. The information contained within this volume is aimed, in general, at the basic trade level and therefore is suitable for students seeking registration as gasfitters. The text will also assist the licensed gasfitter to understand and correctly interpret the standards laid down in the current code for the installation of gas burning appliances.

We would like to thank the teachers who generously gave their expert advice on this project, and those who assisted with the editing and production of the manuscript.