Letters to the editor
In a recent article, Jim Vaughan, the Business Manager of Plumbers Local 12, sheds light on the alarming rise of unlicensed plumbing work, particularly in the context of water filtration systems. Vaughan emphasizes that plumbing is not merely a trade but a critical profession that safeguards public health. With an increasing number of untrained individuals offering plumbing services without the necessary licenses or certifications, the risks to water quality and safety are escalating. The improper installation of water filtration systems can lead to serious consequences, including contamination and violations of local plumbing codes. Vaughan stresses that licensing is not bureaucratic red tape but a vital public safety requirement, especially as the demand for clean drinking water grows.
The article calls for action against unlicensed plumbing practices, urging homeowners to report any illegal work. Vaughan highlights the dangers posed by unlicensed individuals who market their services without accountability, noting that this trend undermines the standards of the plumbing profession and endangers public health. He insists that only licensed plumbers should install water filtration systems, reiterating that public safety must take precedence over convenience or cost-cutting measures. This message resonates strongly in a time when water safety is paramount, and Vaughan’s plea for vigilance and accountability serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities that come with plumbing work.
In a related commentary, Sal Giarratani reflects on the ongoing crisis at Mass and Cass, a neighborhood he has known since childhood. He commends community activist Brian McCarter for advocating for local residents affected by the crisis and for demanding that city officials engage meaningfully with the community. Giarratani recalls the historical context of the area and the importance of addressing problems before they escalate, drawing parallels to the “Broken Windows” strategy in policing. He calls for more proactive community involvement to tackle the issues plaguing Mass and Cass, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to restore safety and order in the neighborhood. Both Vaughan and Giarratani’s insights highlight the critical importance of community engagement, professional standards, and public safety in addressing local challenges.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KahPH6oc12I
$Unlicensed plumbers
As Business Manager of Plumbers Local 12, the largest union representing plumbers in Massachusetts, I’ve seen the consequences of unlicensed plumbing work too many times. Cutting corners with water quality and safety can be disastrous.
There is an increasing number of unlicensed individuals performing plumbing and water filtration installations without the proper training, certification, or legal authority. Don’t be fooled. Plumbing is about protecting the health of the nation. Nowhere is this more critical than in the growing area of water filtration systems.
Water filtration directly impacts drinking water quality. Installing these systems incorrectly may result in contamination, cross-connections, and violations of local plumbing codes. This is why in many jurisdictions, most importantly ours, you must be a licensed plumber to install or service water filtration systems. This isn’t red tape – it’s an essential public safety requirement.
All too often, we see companies and individuals marketing that they install filtration, but they have no license and no accountability. This poses a severe risk to homeowners. Letting this continue unchallenged erodes the standards of our profession and puts the public’s health and safety at risk.
It is time we make it clear that only licensed plumbers should be installing water filtration systems. We cannot take risks with water safety, so please, report unlicensed work. Public safety depends upon it.
Jim Vaughan
Business Manager, Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12
Mass and Cass
As someone who grew up in the South End/lower Roxbury neighborhood back in the ’50s and ’60s, I have been keenly aware of the ongoing social tragedy at Mass and Cass for too many years.
Kudos to South Ender Brian McCarter for standing up for his neighborhood under siege (“A fight to shine light on crisis,” Nov. 12). He doesn’t let inaction get a free ride. McCarter is stepping up into the gap and demanding that he and others in the community be properly provided information, and for City Hall to listen to neighbors who bear the brunt of the Mass and Cass crisis.
Is anyone surprised by the spillover outside that intersection? Of course this has metastasized into nearby areas. It is time for city officials to involve the community in fixing this problem rather than just talking with them or to them.
As someone who grew up on East Springfield Street, I remember what this neighborhood was like. Much of what is happening today had already started back in the ’60s.
When it comes to crime as a retired police officer, I attest to the value of the so-called “Broken Windows” strategy. We are witnessing today the constant growth of a bad situation because it should have been recognized and addressed years ago before it turned into what we have today.
More Brian McCarters are needed.
Sal Giarratani
East Boston
