Class Code 5183
Plumbing/Refrigeration Equip/Heating Or A/C Equipment – Low Wage
Class Code 5183 covers low‑wage workers who install, service or maintain plumbing, refrigeration and heating/A/C equipment in California. The WCIRB approved pure premium is $5.716 per $100 of payroll, which reflects expected claim costs for this specific, higher‑risk trade group.
What Class Code 5183 Covers
This classification applies to hands‑on work on plumbing systems, commercial and residential refrigeration equipment, and heating or air‑conditioning units performed by lower‑paid technicians, helpers, or apprentices. Typical operations include running and joining copper, steel and PVC piping; brazing and soldering refrigerant lines; installing condensers, compressors and evaporators; pressure testing systems; and routing ductwork or mounting furnaces and condensing units. The code is intended for staff who perform physical installation and routine service tasks rather than licensed master plumbers or specialized HVAC mechanics with higher wage brackets. Work performed inside buildings (restaurants, grocery stores, apartments), rooftop A/C installs, and service calls to residential properties are all examples of covered operations.
Who It Applies To
- Entry‑level HVAC helpers and apprentices
- Refrigeration service helpers in grocery or restaurant settings
- Plumbing helpers assisting journeymen on residential/commercial jobs
- Maintenance staff performing routine HVAC or refrigeration service
- Low‑wage A/C installation crews (assistants, laborers)
Common Job Duties
- Cutting, bending and joining copper, steel and PVC pipes and fittings
- Brazing, soldering and using torches to join refrigerant lines
- Pressure testing systems and charging refrigerant under supervision
- Lifting and positioning compressors, condensers and indoor units
- Running wiring for thermostats and basic electrical connections
- Accessing rooftops, attics and crawlspaces for installations and service
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $5.716 Rate
The pure premium rate of $5.716 per $100 of payroll represents the insurer's estimated cost of losses (medical and indemnity) for this class before administrative loading. To calculate the base premium multiply total payroll for employees assigned to 5183 by 0.05716. The final premium you pay is adjusted by the insurer’s expense loadings, your policy’s experience modification, any deductible or retrospective rating plan, and accuracy of payroll reporting at audit.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Employers must follow Cal/OSHA requirements under Title 8 for an effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP), ladder and fall protection when working on roofs, and confined‑space procedures for equipment rooms. Hazard Communication and respiratory protection standards apply when technicians encounter refrigerants, solvents or acid wash chemicals; employers should provide EPA‑approved refrigerant handling training (EPA Section 608) and appropriate PPE. Lockout/tagout procedures and basic electrical safety training are required when working on powered HVAC equipment.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 5183
A PEO like Key HR helps employers in this classification by ensuring correct class code assignment and payroll allocation, implementing targeted safety programs (braze/torch safety, ladder training, refrigerant handling), and managing claims and return‑to‑work to reduce experience modification. Key HR also handles payroll audits, provides OSHA‑style documentation and training, and can bundle loss‑control services that help lower long‑term workers' compensation costs.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I know if an employee belongs in 5183 versus another HVAC/plumbing class?
Assign 5183 to lower‑wage helpers, apprentices or laborers who perform hands‑on installation, brazing, refrigerant charging and routine service under supervision. Fully licensed journeymen or specialized mechanics with higher wage levels should be assigned to the appropriate non‑low wage HVAC or plumbing class. Maintain clear job descriptions and payroll separation to support classification at audit.
Do my technicians need EPA certification to handle refrigerant?
Yes. Technicians who intentionally access and service refrigerant-containing equipment must hold EPA Section 608 certification. In addition, employers must follow refrigerant leak reporting and recovery rules and provide proper PPE and ventilation per Cal/OSHA guidance.
What onsite safety measures most reduce claims and premium for this class?
Focus on brazing and torch safety, refrigerant handling protocols, ladder/roof fall protection, forklift/crane rigging for heavy unit lifts, lockout/tagout, and a formal return‑to‑work program. Documentation of training and consistent incident prevention lowers claim frequency and can improve your experience modification over time.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 5183
- Classification
- Plumbing/Refrigeration Equip/Heating Or A/C Equipment – Low Wage
- Pure Premium Rate
- $5.716 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
Manage Workers' Comp Through a PEO
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