TSBPE Board Rules — 22 TAC 361–367: Definitions, Qualifications, Scope of Work, Codes, Conduct and the Responsible Master Plumber

1. Definitions worth memorizing (361.1)

• Direct supervision — on-the-job oversight and direction of an apprentice or licensee by a licensed plumber who ensures materials are prepared per the manufacturer and the code and the work meets the code and local law. It may be remote, real-time audio-visual only for repair or replacement of existing fixtures (no gas appliances) on one- and two-family dwellings, and only for registrants with 4,000 documented hours plus current residential utilities installer and drain cleaner registrations. On a new one- or two-family dwelling in an unincorporated area continuous oversight is not required, but a licensed plumber must train, manage, review and inspect the apprentice's work (and the RMP names that plumber on request).
• Supervision — the general oversight, direction and management by an RMP or a licensed plumber the RMP designates.
• Maintenance man / maintenance engineer — an employee (never a contractor) doing incidental repair, maintenance and replacement of existing water piping, DWV piping, fixtures and water heaters for the employer; may not cut into fuel gas systems or install gas water heaters, may not install new plumbing, and is not exempt from codes, permits or inspections.
• Public water system — at least 15 service connections or 25 individuals, at least 60 days a year.
• Code-approved appliance connector — a semi-rigid or flexible assembly that connects an appliance without cutting into or altering the existing system. Code-approved existing opening (drain cleaning) — an existing cleanout, a p-trap or fixture inlet, or a vent to atmosphere. P-trap (for drain cleaning) includes the integral trap of a water closet, bidet or urinal. Cleanout