The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 5

In this episode, we unlock the science behind plumbing by exploring the essential properties of water, other liquids, and gases used in UK systems. Whether it’s why pipes burst in the winter, how central heating fluids expand, or how trapped air in radiators causes inefficiency, we break down the principles that every apprentice plumber needs to understand.

This episode moves beyond the “how” of plumbing into the “why,” showing how physics and chemistry govern safe and efficient installations. Through practical examples—like expansion tanks, pressure calculations, and gas safety—you’ll see how science underpins every part of the trade.

• Explain the key physical properties of water (density, expansion, freezing, boiling, and specific heat capacity) and relate them to plumbing design and safety.
• Describe how other liquids such as heating inhibitors, glycols, and wastewater differ from water in terms of viscosity, pH, and chemical impact on systems.
• Understand the behaviour of gases (natural gas, LPG, air) including compressibility, diffusion, density, and gas laws such as Boyle’s and Charles’ Law.
• Apply scientific principles to practical plumbing situations, such as pipe sizing, expansion control, and pressure management in domestic systems.
• Link scientific knowledge to UK regulations and standards, including Water Regulations 1999, Building Regulations (Parts G & L), and Gas Safety Regulations.
• Appreciate how scientific principles directly impact safety, efficiency, and compliance in plumbing.

Whether you’re preparing for exams or working on site, this episode gives you practical insight into why materials behave the way they do — and how those behaviours shape the systems that keep buildings safe and functional.

🎧 Listen to the audio podcast:

👉 https://shows.acast.com/663884554e48ad001264210a/68bd42201af371182a4af644

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqbeXt0SVbA

🎥 TikTok: @copperconnectionpodcast

📺 YouTube: @TheCopperConnectionpodca-sm8zx

🛠️ Store: https://thecopperconnectionpodcast.store/

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The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 4

On this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey takes a closer look at the key properties that determine how materials perform in building services engineering. From tensile strength and conductivity to ductility, malleability, and thermal expansion, we’ll unpack what each property means in practice — and why it matters when designing plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems.

You’ll learn how these material behaviours impact safety, reliability, and efficiency in real-world installations. Plus, we’ll explore simple examples and ask the big question: how do engineers match the right material to the right job?

Whether you’re studying construction science or working in the field, this episode gives you the tools to understand why materials behave the way they do — and how that shapes the systems that keep our buildings running.

• How to explain the difference between tensile, compressive, and impact strength.
• Why ductility and malleability make copper and steel ideal for cables and sheets.
• How conductivity affects both electrical safety and thermal efficiency.
• Why thermal expansion must be considered in long pipe and cable runs.
• How material properties guide engineers in selecting the right material for the right job.
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Whether you’re preparing for exams or working on site, this episode gives you practical insight into why materials behave the way they do — and how those behaviours shape the systems that keep buildings safe and functional.

🎧 Listen to the audio podcast:

👉 https://shows.acast.com/663884554e48ad001264210a/68bd42201af371182a4af644

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqbeXt0SVbA

🎥 TikTok: @copperconnectionpodcast

📺 YouTube: @TheCopperConnectionpodca-sm8zx

🛠️ Store: https://thecopperconnectionpodcast.store/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 3

CLP Pictograms Explained: Hazard Symbols Every Tradesperson Must Know

In this episode, host Chris Bailey breaks down CLP pictograms — the hazard symbols that every apprentice, student, and construction professional needs to understand.

From flammables and corrosives to toxicity and environmental hazards, Chris explains the nine key CLP pictogramsused under UK and EU regulations, why they’re important, and how they keep workers safe on-site.

• What CLP pictograms are and why they matter in construction.
• The nine official hazard symbols and their meanings.
• Legal requirements for labelling and packaging.
• Real-world examples of where you’ll encounter these pictograms.
• Best practices for training, awareness, and compliance on-site.

This episode is designed to help students revising for exams, apprentices starting on-site, and professionals refreshing their knowledge stay compliant and safe when working with hazardous substances.

🎧 Listen to the audio podcast:

👉 https://shows.acast.com/663884554e48ad001264210a/68bd42201af371182a4af644

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqbeXt0SVbA

🎥 TikTok: @copperconnectionpodcast

📺 YouTube: @TheCopperConnectionpodca-sm8zx

🛠️ Store: https://thecopperconnectionpodcast.store/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back, builders of tomorrow — to Season 2 of The Copper Connection Podcast!

We’re proud to be an award-nominated podcast — and this year, we’re leveling up even further.

In this episode, host Chris Bailey takes a deep dive into the vital role of safety signs in the UK construction industry. From legal compliance to real-world application, Chris explains why proper signage isn’t just a box to tick — it’s a life-saving necessity.

The four main types of safety signs you’ll see on construction sites:

• ✅ Prohibition
• ✅ Mandatory
• ✅ Warning
• ✅ Information

UK legal requirements every site must meet.

Best practices for placement, maintenance, and staff training.

Real-life examples showing how the right signs prevent accidents and save lives.

Whether you’re a student revising for exams or a professional on-site, this episode highlights the legal and practical necessity of clear, standardized safety signs across the trades.

🎧 Listen to the full audio podcast here:

👉 https://shows.acast.com/663884554e48ad001264210a/68bd42201af371182a4af644

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqbeXt0SVbA

🎥 TikTok: @copperconnectionpodcast

📺 YouTube: @TheCopperConnectionpodca-sm8zx

🛠️ Online Store: https://thecopperconnectionpodcast.store/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back, builders of tomorrow — to Season 2 of The Copper Connection Podcast! 🎙️

We’re proud to be an award-nominated show, and this year, we’re leveling up even further. Season 2 is all about sharpening your revision skills, breaking down tough topics, and giving you the real-world insights employers are looking for in new starters across the electrical and plumbing trades.

Here’s what you can expect this season:

• Employer expectations uncovered — straight from industry leaders telling us what they want from students and apprentices coming out of college.
• Course-level guides — from Level 1 through T-Levels, Level 3, and all apprenticeship Phases 1–3, we’ll tag each episode so you know exactly what’s relevant to you.
• Two episodes every week — first laying out the foundations, then building up with deeper revision and industry connections.
• A video version — so you can listen on-the-go or watch with diagrams, breakdowns, and practical walk-throughs.

This first episode kicks off Season 2 with everything you need to know: what’s new, how to get the best from the show, and how you can get involved by sending in your own questions and revision challenges.

💡 Whether you’re studying for your exams, revising after class, or learning on-site as an apprentice — this season will give you the confidence, guidance, and inside knowledge to stay ahead.

TikTok – copperconnectionpodcast

YouTube – @TheCopperConnectionpodca-sm8zx

https://thecopperconnectionpodcast.store/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hi, I’m Chris — host of The Copper Connection Podcast, proudly based in Blackpool.

We created this podcast as a revision and support tool for students working toward technical qualifications in construction. No backing, no sponsorship — just a belief that learning should be accessible, real, and relevant.

It started with my students. It’s helped them revise, reflect, and build confidence. And now, The Copper Connection has been nominated for two national podcast awards:

🏆 British Podcast Awards – People’s Choice

🏆 Podcast Awards – Education Podcast Category

These are public votes, and we’ve got just two weeks left before the shortlists are announced.

If you believe in:

✅ Supporting vocational learners

✅ Innovation in education

✅ Giving students more than textbooks

…then please vote and help us bring this project to the next level.

🗳️ Vote here:

👉 https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting

👉 https://www.podcastawards.com (look for "The Copper Connection" under Education)

🔁 Share this with your network — every vote helps.

🎙️ Season 2 is in the works. Until then, dive into Season 1 — available now on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, and all major platforms.

Thank you for supporting something different. Let’s make some noise for technical learners.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ve wrapped up 51 episodes of The Copper Connection — packed with revision tips, real apprentice stories, tutor insights, and everything construction students need to succeed.

Now, while we take a short season break, there’s some BIG news...

The Copper Connection has been long-listed for the Listener’s Choice Award at the British Podcast Awards! 🎉

If this podcast has helped you revise, pass, or feel more confident in your career – we need your vote!

🗳️ Voting is quick and free – https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting

✅ Over the break, we’ll still be sharing:

• Fan-favourite clips 🎙️

• Student shoutouts 💬

• Trade tips and revision boosters 🔧

• Sneak peeks of what’s coming in Season 2 👀

Follow, vote, and stay tuned – Season 2 is loading, and it’s going to be even bigger.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome, builders of tomorrow, to the Copper Connection Podcast – your ultimate revision platform for mastering technical qualifications in construction across the UK! Whether you're shaping skyscrapers or crafting homes, this is your go-to destination for all things construction.

This week It’s time to celebrate! In this special finale of The Copper Connection, we recap all 50 episodes that supported UK construction students through revision, systems learning, and practical knowledge. Hosted by Chris Bailey, this episode reflects on the topics covered—from plumbing, heating, and health & safety to business skills, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re an apprentice, tutor, or trades learner, this episode is packed with motivation, gratitude, and advice for preparing for the next academic year. Plus, hear what’s coming in Season 2, including guest experts, on-site episodes, and video content!

Perfect for: construction students, trade apprentices, plumbing and heating learners, and anyone revising for construction qualifications in the UK.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Check out our Videos

TikTok - copperconnectionpodcast

You Tube - @TheCopperConnectionpodca-sm8zx

Check out our online store

https://thecopperconnectionpodcast.store/

I'm your host Chris Bailey, and together, we'll dive deep into the concrete jungle of knowledge, paving the way for your success in the industry. Each episode, we'll be your compass through the complexities of construction theory, regulations, and tailored specifically for students like you striving for excellence in your studies.

Join us as we connect the dots between theory and practice, guiding you through your qualifications, and career pathways, ensuring you're equipped with the skills and know-how to thrive in the competitive world of construction.

So, grab your hard hat, sharpen your pencils, and get ready to build your future, one podcast episode at a time. Welcome to the Copper Connection Podcast, where the foundation of your success begins! Stay tuned for our first episode, coming soon to revolutionise your construction education!Welcome, builders of tomorrow, to the Copper Connection Podcast – your ultimate revision platform for mastering technical qualifications in construction across the UK! Whether you're shaping skyscrapers or crafting homes, this is your go-to destination for all things construction.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.