Análise da formação e atuação de projetistas de instalações hidrossanitárias no Brasil

Abstract

With the growing demands for quality, performance, and sustainability, designers face significant challenges in the development of hydrosanitary building systems projects. The training of these professionals becomes crucial, ranging from undergraduate education to constant updating in the face of technological changes. In this regard, the overall objective of this research was to analyze the training of designers of hydrosanitary building installations in Brazil. To this end, a study was conducted with professionals from 26 Brazilian states and the Federal District using a 22-question questionnaire, with 7 questions aimed at profiling respondents and 15 addressing aspects impacting the training of designers. These items were classified into categories, with 5 objective items focused on training and experience, and 10 items on a Likert scale for the categories of availability of educational resources, performance in the job market, impact of normative updates, and competencies developed throughout their education. Additionally, responses were collected regarding project errors, difficulties faced in disciplines, and the most used software. As a result, 159 responses were obtained nationwide. With the help of spreadsheets, the results were analyzed, and a higher male participation was observed, mainly with a background in civil engineering, technical courses, and extracurricular courses. The geographical distribution reached all Brazilian states. The main sources are technical standards, manufacturer websites, and books. When evaluating the perception of designers about their education, there was a significant agreement in the development of competencies, but a portion disagrees with the adequacy of the training to market demands. Ambiguities were identified in the perception of updated educational resources. Additionally, many designers need to enhance their skills to keep up with normative updates, with the hot water discipline being the most challenging. Revit, Excel, and Autocad are the most used software, and the change and update of course curricula is a relevant suggestion. Finally, the research revealed that lack of experience in the application of technical standards contributed to project errors among designers, resulting in pathological manifestations.