plumbing (which comes from the latin word "plumbum", which means lead, as pipes were once made from lead) is the job of working with pipes, tubing and plumbing fixtures for drinking water systems and getting rid of waste. a plumber is someone who fixes or puts in piping systems, plumbing fixtures and equipment such as water heaters. many plumbers are construction workers. the plumbing industry is an important part of every developed economy because people need clean water and safe ways to move and store waste.