Which of the following skills is not generally required for a plumber?

The skill of calculating structural loads is not generally required for a plumber. Plumbers primarily focus on the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems, which include tasks such as reading blueprints, installing piping systems, and using a variety of plumbing tools to ensure systems operate efficiently and meet code requirements.

Reading blueprints is essential as it allows plumbers to understand the layout of the plumbing systems they will be installing. Installing piping systems is a core duty of plumbing work, as it involves handling various types of pipes and fittings to create a functional water system. Proficiency in using plumbing tools is critical for completing these tasks effectively and safely.

In contrast, calculating structural loads is typically associated with the work of engineers or architects who analyze the structural integrity of buildings and ensure they can safely support various loads. While plumbers must have an understanding of how their installations interact with the overall structure, they do not engage in detailed calculations of structural loads as part of their regular duties. This distinction helps define the skill set unique to plumbing professionals.