When someone excuses themselves to go “check on the plumbing,” we know that they need to use the toilet. It’s a funny, if not awkward, situation, but if you think about it, our digestive systems actually are the plumbing systems of our bodies. This, in turn, makes us realize that, for any architectural structure to function properly, it needs to have a plumbing system in tip-top shape.
As business owners, we often concern ourselves with the other aspects of our enterprise—until, of course, the taps burst or the toilet is clogged. It seems like such a minor issue until it isn’t. That’s why, apart from cash flow, we also need to think about the physical flow of water, waste, and other materials throughout our workplace buildings’ inner pipes and tubes.
The Importance of Plumbing
The concept of controlling and directing water flow for human use has been around for millennia, even before the ancient Romans coined the term plumbum for lead, which was the material used for their pipes.
Basically, plumbing has been an essential part of human civilization. In a way, the presence of proper plumbing systems is an indication of a community’s progressiveness. It indicates that there are systems in place to ensure its members’ health, safety, and security.
If you think about it, there is no structure that we currently reside in that doesn’t have a plumbing system. From our homes to workplaces and commercial establishments, pipes and tubes are the hidden devices that keep our day-to-day activities flowing.
Water, perhaps the most important resource next to oxygen, is something brought into our lives through plumbing. Good plumbing means our survival, while bad plumbing–and the exposure to bacteria and contaminants that it brings–can spell the opposite.
The Plumbing Plan
Whether you’re building it or moving into an existing one, your workplace establishment needs to have a solid plumbing system. This requires the design work of a master plumber and architect and is regulated by the government. You can’t just install plumbing yourself. Local and national plumbing codes need to be followed, especially since bad plumbing can cause so many illnesses and spread diseases.
If you are moving into an existing building, it’s best to check the plumbing system to see if it’s in good shape. The plumbing code and regulations are updated regularly, so you’ll need an expert to inspect and check if anything needs to be maintained or upgraded.
The plumber is the doctor for your building pipes
Just as we visit a gastroenterologist for any ailments that our “inner pipes” may need, the buildings we work in also need regular plumbing maintenance. This is why it’s important to have plumbing professionals familiar with your workplace structure.
Like medical doctors, there are also specialists for certain kinds of plumbing. This is especially important if you work in a specialized industry that requires specific machinery or structures. It’s also important if your workplace is located in certain climates or environments more susceptible to plumbing issues.
There’s also a big difference between regular residential plumbing and more robust and specialized industrial plumbing. The plumber specializing in fixing your under sink pipes may not have the same expertise as a service that helps install industrial insulation. This is why it’s important to hire the right people.
Plumbing Matters
You might think that this is all too much trouble for something that you don’t even see, but the truth is, plumbing is essential to the success of any enterprise.
Think about your own body. An upset tummy or a loose bowel means that you’re out of commission until you feel better. It’s the same with your business. Even if the pipes aren’t directly related to your business processes, faulty ones can disrupt workflow and prevent your staff from performing their duties.
Also, for all your worries about the cost of plumbing maintenance, have you thought about the cost of faulty plumbing? We’re not even talking about a massive burst pipe or a major leak here. Household leaks, for example, amount to 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year. This is why we should keep in mind that good plumbing can also mean good savings.
To keep a business running, to keep success flowing, plumbing shouldn’t just be an afterthought. Think about it this way: with a well-designed and well-maintained plumbing system, you can keep all the good things flowing in and keep the bad stuff flowing out.
