Jan - March 2012

Plumbing Code Issue

W H E N YO U R H I G H - R I S E B U I L D I N GS WAT E R S YS T E M
C A L L S F O R LOW E R CO S T S ,

ZURN LISTENS.
2011- 2012

January - March 2012

Thousands of workers
depend on this buildings
water every day. So when
we updated our restrooms
and water systems, we
needed the most dependable
product with the most value.
Thats why we called Zurn.

2012 by the American Society of Sanitary Engineering, 901 Canterbury Road,

Suite A, Westlake, OH 44145-1480, USA; Tel: 440-835-3040; Fax: 440-8353488; Web: http://www.asse-plumbing.org.
Plumbing Standards is published four (4) times a year: Winter (March),
Spring (June), Summer (Sept.) and Fall (Dec.). This magazine is provided at no
cost to members of ASSE and those who qualify by being engaged in the design,
specification and installation of plumbing systems and regulatory agencies. For
those who do not qualify, the subscription rate is $12 for one year. Change
of address or address corrections should be sent with an old address label to
Plumbing Standards Subscriptions at the address below.
This magazine is the official publication of the American Society of Sanitary
Engineering. ASSE is not responsible for any editorial opinions expressed in
this publication by any of the contributing authors, Board of Directors or
members. Articles and information published in this magazine may not be
reproduced without the written consent of the ASSE.
Plumbing Standards is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art or
photographs unless accompanied by sufficient return postage. The publisher
cannot assume responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

President
Donald R. Summers, Jr.

Plumbing Standards (ISSN 08999-7306) is published quarterly by the

American Society of Sanitary Engineering, 901 Canterbury Rd., Ste. A,
Westlake, OH 44145. Periodicals Postage Paid at Cleveland, OH & additional
mailing offices.

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Plumbing Standards Subscription

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statement of ownership

Statement required by the Act of October 1962, Section 4369, Title 39, United
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Published at 901 Canterbury Rd., Ste. A, Westlake, OH 44145-1480 Cuyahoga
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Publisher, Editor & Graphic Designer: Benjamin Ryan,
901 Canterbury Rd., Ste. A, Westlake, OH 44145-1480
Owner: American Society of Sanitary Engineering,
901 Canterbury Rd., Ste. A, Westlake, OH 44145-1480
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I certify that the statements made above are correct and complete.
Benjamin Ryan, Editor

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1ST VICE PRESIDENT

Steve Silber
Plumbers Local 342
935 Detroit Ave.
Concord, CA 94518

2ND VICE PRESIDENT

SCOTT HAMILTON
Plumbers Local 75
11175 W. Parkland
Milwaukee, WI 53224

3RD VICE PRESIDENT

Douglas A. Marian

PAST PRESIDENT
James Bickford, IPP
City of Pompano Beach
100 W. Atlantic Blvd.
Pompano Beach, FL 33060

TREASURER
John F. FLader
1924 W. Windsor Dr.
Round Lake, IL 60073

Region #1 Director
West
Donald Kool
0247 SW Florida St.
Portland, OR 97219

Region #2 Director
North Central
Matthew Marciniak
IAPMO
4528A W Oklahoma Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53219

Region #3 Director
South Central
Dana Colombo
National ITC
PO Box 8428
Metairie, LA 70011

Region #4 Director
Mid West
STEVE STAHNKE
Stan-Key Plumbing
2763 Tiara Dr.
Arnold, MO 63010

Region #5 Director
South East
JOSEPH KAJAK
Palm Beach County
2008 S Federal Hwy, Ste. #C306
Boynton Beach, FL 33435

Region #6 Director
East
Richard J. Prospal, IPP
Prospal Consulting Services, Inc.
312 Nancy Circle
Brunswick, OH 44212

Region #7 Director
North East
Sean Cleary, IPP
IAPMO
102 Abby Way
Scranton, PA 18504

Region #8 Director
At-Large
Laurence T. Coleman

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January - March 2012

Plumbing Standards

The

Presidents Message

ON THE COVER
06

ASSE 2012 Moving in the Right Direction

A Brief History of Plumbing Codes

Managing Editor / Production

Benjamin Ryan

Circulation
Elaine Mathieson

OF PLUMBING CODES
2012 CODE UPDATES

CODES HARVEST RAINWATER

12

Codes Harvest Rainwater

15

2012 Code Updates

Another month has gone by with me as your International

President. The amount of work accomplished each and every
month is astounding and this could not be done without our office
staff handling many daily issues. I would be remiss if I did not
include and mention our Board of Directors, committee members
and, most importantly, our membership. I know I have said
this before, but it can never be said enough: THANK YOU for
everything you do.

:: by Dave Viola

:: by Lee Clifton (ICC), Dave Viola / Pete DeMarco

(IAPMO), and Chuck White (PHCC)

ASSE, along with the guidance and forethought of your Board

of Directors, continues to participate in any, and all, industry
events we can in order to keep ASSE on the cutting edge of the
happenings in our industry. We are utilizing all of our resources
to attend and participate in these important events.

FEATURES
21

Which Plumbing Code is the Weakest Link?

:: by Matt Marciniak

Photo on page 7 courtesy of American Standard Brands

Photos on pages 12, 14 & 22 courtesy of IAPMO
Studor ChemVent Air Admittance Valve photo on page 16
courtesy of IPS Corporation

ev

ti o

Cu

Pr

re

Photos on pages 16-17 courtesy of ICC

en

n R ath er T ha

ADVERTISERS INDEX
2 23
Wilkins / a Zurn IAPMO
Company
34
11 ASSE Yearbook
Backflow Supply
35
17 Therm-Omega-Tech
EMGS, Inc.
36
19 SureSeal
ASSE Series 5000
4

Plumbing Standards

DONALD R. SUMMERS, JR.

ASSE International President

:: by Ron George, CPD

Plumbing Standards Magazine

Editorial Review Committee
Benjamin Ryan, Chair
James Bickford, IPP, FL
Sean Cleary, IPP, NEPA
Joseph Kajak, FL
Donald Kool, PNW
Kenneth Schneider, MO
Edward J. Lyczko, IPP, NOH
Steve Stahnke, MO
Donald R. Summers, Jr., MO
Robert D. Tesar, NOH

BRIEFInquiries
HISTORY
DirectAAdvertising
to:
Benjamin Ryan, c/o ASSE
901 Canterbury Rd., Suite A
Westlake, Ohio 44145-1480
ben@asse-plumbing.org

January - March 2012

DEPARTMENTS
Advertisers Index
The Presidents Message
Chapter Spotlight
Featured Sustaining Member
2011 ASSE Scholarship Essay
Backflow Industry
ASSE Updates
ASSE News
Industry Buzz

4
5
24
25
26
27
28
29
30

January - March 2012

ASSE is hard at work. We have working groups meeting to

revise some of the existing Professional Qualifications Standards,
including the ASSE Series 6000, Professional Qualifications
Standard for Medical Gas Systems Personnel, and the ASSE
Series 7000, Professional Qualifications Standard for PlumbingBased Residential Fire Protection Systems Installers and
Inspectors. We have other working groups in the process of
writing new PQ Standards, including the ASSE Series 13000,
Professional Qualifications Standard for Service Plumbing, and
the ASSE Series 17000, Mechanical Inspector Professional
Qualifications Standard. There are a number of other PQ
Standards in varying phases of completion.

With our product standards portfolio containing over fifty
different standards, activity is constant in this area. We are
in the revision process at the working group level on several
standards, including ASSE 1010, Performance Requirements
for Water Hammer Arresters, ASSE 1022, Performance
Requirements for Backflow Preventer for Beverage Dispensing
Equipment, and ASSE 1060, Performance Requirements for
Outdoor Enclosures for Fluid Conveying Components. We are
happy to have many manufacturers dedicated to these revisions.
Our Product Standards Committee is currently balloting ASSE
1011, Performance Requirements for Hose Connection Vacuum
Breakers, and ASSE 1044, Performance Requirements for Trap
Seal Primer Devices- Drainage Types and Electronic Design
Types.

January - March 2012

There are so many other things happening

at ASSE; one of the most exciting is that
ASSE has hired a Strategic Planner. I
have spoken with Mr. Dennis Blender, our
Strategic Planner, and have met with him
once thus far. We have put together a
Strategic Planning Team that will meet at
our Mid-Year Meeting in April to start work
on our plan. Once this process begins, we
will be involving everyone, ranging from
the Board of Directors to our membership.
Please watch for information and opportunities to participate as we seek your input.
This is your Society and we want you to be
involved in moving ASSE in the right
direction for the future.
We are also working on updating our
website in hopes of giving it a new and
fresh look. ASSE is also now on Facebook
(http://www.facebook.com/ASSE1906) for
all of you techies. We are trying to be on
the leading edge of technology, not just the
plumbing industry, so you can now keep
up with everything going on by way of the
internet.
ASSE is very busy and we remain
committed to being a top ANSI Accredited
Standards Developer and Product Certification Body. THANK YOU to all who volunteer
to be on our many committees, our Board
of Directors for their direction, our office
staff for their dedication to the Society and
to our membership, without whom we would
not exist.
Good luck to everyone in 2012,

Plumbing Standards

History

by Ron George, CPD

President, Plumb-Tech Design

& Consulting Services, LLC

of PlumbingCodes

The plumbing industry in the United States of America has a long

history of plumbing code and standard development. The oldest code
dates back to the Hammurabi code, where the basic concept was,

If a builder builds a house and that house falls down and kills the owner of the
house, the builder shall be put to death.
The age and beginning of plumbing codes in the United States is not
as important as how plumbing codes have evolved.
The evolution of plumbing codes in the United States follows the
construction booms. Following World War II, a great amount of
construction took place and the industry realized the need for codes.
Prior to the wars, there were widespread unsanitary conditions in the
United States. Rivers were filthy and smelled of sewage, and water
quality was very poor. Many soldiers lost their lives in the Civil War
and World War I; not from war wounds, but from dysentery, poor
sanitation and unclean water. Later on, there was a call for building
water and sewage treatment plants.

Plumbing Standards

Plumbing and sanitary associations like ASSE started not long after
the Civil War. Sanitarians and plumbers would meet to discuss
solving the problems of the poor water supply and sewer conditions.
These associations started writing down basic sanitary concepts to
prevent contamination of drinking water and these concepts were
the principles that became the basis of the early plumbing codes.
In the 1880s, a national plumbing organization was formed to
continue these efforts and to share ideas and information. That
association has had many name changes over the years, but is now
called the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National
Association (PHCC).

January - March 2012

CREDIT: American Standard Brands. An entire section of the American Standard Pro Site is dedicated to plumbers who protect.
(http://americanstandardpro.com/plumber-protects-league/default.aspx)

ABrief

The early plumbing association members worked very long hours in

a noble cause to educate the industry and protect the health of the
nation. A plumbing manufacturer, American Standard Brands, used
the slogan The Plumber Protects the Health of the Nation in their
advertising many years ago and they continue to utilize the mantra
today. Plumbers had figured out simple ways of protecting potable
water from contamination: the use of air gaps, backflow preventers,
separation of water supply sources from waste streams, construction
of water and sewage treatment plants, and public water and sewer
infrastructure.
There is no question that our health has improved spectacularly in
the past century. One thing seems certain: it did not happen because
of medicine, medical science or even the presence of doctors. Lewis
Thomas summed it up in this quote:

Much of the credit should go to the

plumbers and engineers of the western
world. The contamination of drinking
water by human feces was at one time
the greatest cause of human disease and
death for us, but when the plumbers and
sanitary engineers had done their work
in the construction of our cities, these
diseases began to vanish.
The Beginnings of ASSE

In 1906, a group of sanitary professionals gathered in Washington,

D.C., under the direction of Henry B. Davis, and formed an
organization called the American Society of Sanitary Engineering
(ASSE). Davis envisioned a group that could exchange ideas and
try to standardize the different plumbing and sanitary codes
throughout the country. He recognized that plumbing and sanitary
codes, to date, had all been reactionary; ASSE then developed the
motto, Prevention Rather Than Cure. This philosophy was based
upon providing good engineering designs for clean and sanitary
plumbing systems, rather than living with the unsanitary conditions
and trying to cure the illnesses associated with ignoring the
unsanitary problems. I have experienced this personally in my
travels to several third-world countries where hundreds of millions
of people do not have access to clean water for drinking, bathing and
washing. It takes an effort by the government to address the problem
with water and waste treatment facilities. Sadly, many foreign
governments need to adopt ASSEs motto and work toward
prevention. Mr. Davis saw that the plumbing profession was better
equipped to solve a problem before the problem occurred, opposed
to having the medical profession cure the illness.

NFPA

Building regulations were also being implemented throughout the

country in response to major fires and conflagrations in east coast

January - March 2012

cities, where large numbers of wooden structures were built in close

proximity to each other. The first group to address fire protection
concerns was the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA),
which formed in 1896. In 1915, a group of building inspectors
got together in New York City to develop the Building Officials
Conference of America (BOCA); this was the first group to
concentrate on coordinating building code regulations on a
national level. Two other major code organizations would follow:
Southern Building Code Congress in the south and International
Conference of Building Officials on the west coast. The need
for separate organizations was dictated by a lack of adequate
transportation and immediate communication. In the 1920s, a trip
from New York to Los Angeles took three to five days by train.

The Hoover Code

In 1921, President Warren Harding appointed prominent engineer

Herbert Hoover to the position of Secretary of Commerce. Hoover,
as an engineer, saw the Unites States as a vast land where proper
planning could change the course of the nation. Remember, the
1920s were a time of prosperity in the United States. Hoover believed
that with the emergence from World War I and with the wealth of
the nation coming into prominence, the country could improve

Plumbing Standards

its quality of life by applying better engineering concepts. Hoover

wanted electricity in every home, as well as indoor plumbing. At
the time Hoover was Secretary of Commerce, less than one-percent
of the homes in the United States had indoor plumbing. In 1921,
Hoover started the Building Material and Structures Division of the
National Bureau of Standards, today known as the National Institute
of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
Gaithersburg is just a ten-minute drive up from IAPMOs Emerging Technology Symposium, scheduled for May 1-2, 2012 (https://
forms.iapmo.org/ets/).
Work at the National Bureau of Standards by Dr. Roy B. Hunter was
a cornerstone in Herbert Hoovers vision of bringing engineering to
the Commerce Department. Hoover felt the Commerce Department
should control the standardization effort since this would improve
the ability for entrepreneurs to have easy access to the marketplace.
Standards for products were emerging at the same time as plumbing
codes. The great conflagrations, or fires, on the east coast brought
together many fire brigades and fire departments, from near and far,
to fight fires in congested areas with many wooden structures.
They found their hoses could not be connected because each fire
department had a different hose diameter and a different hose
thread type. Soon after the great fire in Baltimore, a call was made
to standardize hose threads and other products, like bolt threads,
weight scales and other critical products, so they could be
consistent and compatible in different parts of the country.

Dr. Roy B. Hunter,

Father of the Plumbing Codes

When Dr. Hunter finished his first research projects, he addressed

many basic principles that needed to be accomplished in order to
have safe plumbing systems. The first plumbing code was developed
in 1928; it was a document titled The Report on Hydraulics and
Pneumatics of Plumbing Systems, authored by Dr. Hunter. Through
the efforts of the National Bureau of Standards, it was nicknamed the
Hoover Code; not because of any effort put forth by Hoover, but to
pay tribute to a man who saw the need to develop such a document.
Hoover was elected President of the United States by one of the
largest margins. Hoover will always be remembered as the person
behind development of the first national plumbing code, but Dr.
Hunters research was the key to the development of the first
nationwide plumbing code.
In 1941, the A40 Committee was reorganized and created various
reports to the extent that in 1949 they received approval for their
work as an American Standard. Shortly after the acceptance of
the 1949 report, still another A40 committee was formed. This
committees work, known as the A-40.8-1955, was completed and
published in 1955, and was for many years known as the National
Plumbing Code. This code was used mostly in government projects.
The BMS 66, 1940, was officially withdrawn as an American
Standard on June 20, 1972.
Three documents (BMS 65, Methods of Estimating Loads in
Plumbing Systems; BMS 66, Plumbing Manual; and BMS 79,
Water Distributing Systems for Buildings) served as the basis for every
up-to-date plumbing code of the time. The federal government did
not see it as their job to mandate the national plumbing code; they
offered it as a suggested document for jurisdictions to adopt.

Plumbing Standards

During this period, the federal government was still of the opinion
that construction projects should be regulated on the local level and
the plumbing code was only mandated for federal projects.

Principle No. 3: Plumbing shall be designed and adjusted to use the

minimum quantity of water consistent with proper performance and
cleaning.

While the basic emphasis of the Hoover Code and BMS 66 was
sanitation, the codes also made a concerted effort to emphasize
low cost housing because it listed the basic principles of good
plumbing. In Dr. Roy B. Hunters paper, BMS 66, 1940, he wrote,
The purpose of this series of papers is to collect, in an organized
form, the mass of information obtained by the author over a number
of years, beginning with the investigation of 1921 of plumbing of
small dwellings, and including the current research (1937-1940)
on plumbing for low-cost housing, together with the results of
intervening experiments related to plumbing requirements, and to
interpret the results of these investigations in a form suitable for
direct and practical application. It is hoped that this series of papers
will supply the logical answer to many of the controversial questions
pertaining to pipe sizes and design of plumbing construction.

Principle No. 4: Devices for heating and storing water shall be so

designed and installed as to prevent dangers from explosion through
overheating.

BMS 66 followed a similar theme, writing, In order to have good

and economical plumbing, it is necessary that there should be
some agreement on the rules governing its design and installation
Particular emphasis is placed upon its usefulness in connection
with low-cost housing where there is special need to take advantage
of legitimate economies. The field of the manual, however, is not
restricted to housing, since the same fundamental principles apply in
any structure.

All other structures for human occupancy or use on premises

abutting on a sewer or with a private sewage-disposal system shall
have adequate sanitary facilities but in no case less than one water
closet and one other fixture for cleaning purposes.
Principle No. 7: Plumbing fixtures shall be made of smooth
nonabsorbent material, shall be free from concealed fouling surfaces,
and shall be located in ventilated enclosures.

Principle No. 21: Plumbing shall be installed with due regard to

preservation of the strength of structural members and prevention of
damage to walls and other surfaces through fixture usage.

Basic Principles for Health

and Safety Were Outlined in
Early Codes.

Principle No. 8: The drainage system shall be designed, constructed

and maintained so as to guard against fouling, deposit of solids and
clogging, and with adequate cleanouts so arranged that the pipes may
be readily cleaned.

Principle No. 22: Sewage or other waste from a plumbing system

which may be deleterious to surface or subsurface waters shall not be
discharged into the ground or into any waterway unless it has first
been rendered innocuous through subjection to some acceptable
form of treatment.

The BMS 66 manual stated that many innovations were added to the
document to allow engineers to design and builders to build, based
on the actual demands of the building. Users of the plumbing code
were encouraged to offer comments on the content of the manual.
There was an acknowledgment that the document would need to
undergo changes to keep it abreast of new technology, however, the
document did state that there are certain principles in plumbing
that would never change, only the ways to achieve the goals of these
principles would change.
The A40.8, containing requirements based on the latest available
technology, was concerned about low cost housing and provided
the minimum necessary protection of public health. Included in
the A40.8 was a list of Basic Principles which were intended to be
guidelines for the deployment of the National Plumbing Code. The
Basic Principles from the 1955 edition of the ASA A40.8 National
Plumbing Code were as following:

Basic Principles

Principle No. 1: All premises intended for human habitation,

occupancy or use shall be provided with a supply of pure and
wholesome water, neither connected with unsafe water supplies
nor subject to the hazards of backflow or back siphonage.
Principle No. 2: Plumbing fixtures, devices, and appurtenances shall
be supplied with water in sufficient volume and at pressures adequate
to enable them to function satisfactorily and without undue noise
under all normal conditions of use.

January - March 2012

Principle No. 5: Every building having plumbing fixtures installed

and intended for human habitation, occupancy, or use on premises
abutting on a street, alley or easement in which there is a public
sewer shall have a connection with the sewer.
Principle No. 6: Each family dwelling unit on premises abutting on a
sewer or with a private sewage-disposal system shall have, at least, one
water closet and one kitchen-type sink. It is further recommended
that a lavatory and bathtub or shower shall be installed to meet the
basic requirements of sanction and personal hygiene.

Principle No. 9: The piping of the plumbing system shall be of

durable material, free from defective workmanship, and so designed
and constructed as to give satisfactory service for its reasonable
expected life.
Principle No. 10: Each fixture directly connected to the drainage
system shall be equipped with a water-seal trap.
Principle No. 11: The drainage system shall be designed to
provide an adequate circulation of air in all pipes with no danger
of siphonage, aspiration or forcing of trap seals under conditions
of ordinary use.
Principle No. 12: Each vent terminal shall extend to the outer air
and be so installed as to minimize the possibilities of clogging and the
return of foul air to the building.
Principle No. 13: The plumbing system shall be subjected to such
tests as will effectively disclose all leaks and defects in the work.
Principle No. 14: No substance which will clog the pipes, produce
explosive mixtures, destroy the pipes or their joints, or interfere
unduly with the sewage-disposal process shall be allowed to enter the
building drainage system.

January - March 2012

Principle No. 15: Proper protection shall be provided to prevent

contamination of food, water, sterile goods and similar materials by
backflow of sewage. When necessary, the fixture, device or appliance
shall be connected indirectly with the building drainage system.
Principle No. 16: No water closet shall be located in a room or
compartment which is not properly lighted and ventilated.
Principle No. 17: If water closets or other plumbing fixtures are
installed in buildings where there is no sewer within a reasonable
distance, suitable provision shall be made for disposing of the
building sewage by some accepted method of sewage treatment
and disposal.
Principle No. 18: Where a plumbing drainage system may be
subjected to backflow of sewage, suitable provision shall be made
to prevent its overflow in the building.
Principle No. 19: Plumbing systems shall be maintained in a sanitary
and serviceable condition.
Principle No. 20: All plumbing fixtures shall be so installed with
regard to spacing as to be reasonably accessible for their intended use.

These basic principles provided engineering guidelines regarding

the intent of the plumbing code. The codes that remained a force
were the BOCA Code, the NAPHCC Code, the SBCCI Standard
Plumbing Code and the IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code. Each
of these regional model code organizations knew that the special
interests wanted to manage the code for their own benefit. Each
organization established policies to prevent the special interests from
controlling the free exchange of ideas and the recognition of new
technology. The model code groups developed slogans to guide them
in promulgating their codes; the basic expression, still used today, is
the code provides the minimum level of protection against public
health, safety, and welfare.
While the model code organizations have attempted to remain pure,
they too have fallen into using the plumbing code for their own
economic gains. The copyright of each code is protected so that only
the model code group can generate revenues from the sale of the
plumbing code. The plumbing codes also specify requirements for the
listing of plumbing products and some codes require every plumbing
product to be listed by a third party agency. Conveniently, the model
code organizations have listing services to list many types of products,
including plumbing products, to meet these requirements in the
code. These listings cost manufacturers millions of dollars each year
and result in financial gains for the listing agencies.

Plumbing Standards

The latest evolution has been a consolidation of code organizations

in the United States. Building Officials and Code Administrators
International (BOCA), the International Conference of Building
Officials ( ICBO), and Southern Building Code Congress
International (SBCCI) have joined forces to promulgate the
International Plumbing Code. IAPMO aligned themselves with
the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to produce the
NFPA Building Code, NFPA Fuel Gas Code, NFPA Electrical
Code, along with the Uniform Plumbing Code and the Uniform
Mechanical Code.

IAPMO, the Early Years

Stephen Smoot was a plumber, contractor and eventually the

chief inspector for the city of Los Angeles. He was also one of the
founding members of the Los Angeles City Plumbing Inspectors
Association. Later, the association was renamed a few times and
eventually became the International Association of Plumbing and
Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). Stephen Smoot once wrote that
there were an estimated 1,600 local plumbing codes and ordinances
adopted across the United States. In his travels in the 1930s, one
observation was that there was not much standardization between
codes of various jurisdictions. Dr. Roy Hunters recommended
practices in Recommended Minimum Requirements for
Plumbing were gradually adopted by major cities, usually after
various major outbreaks of disease or other health issues. The
adopted rules became known as the Code of Practice for the
plumbing industry. Unfortunately, there was no consistency in the
Code of Practice from one city to the next; the political leaders
always thought that their problems were unique when compared to
other cities, so they would tinker with the code. Competition as to
who had the better code for protecting sanitation began early
among the different jurisdictions.

BOCA Basic Plumbing Code /

BOCA National Plumbing Code

The Building Officials and Code Administrators International

(BOCA) was established in 1915 by building officials from nine
states and Canada. Their purpose was to provide a forum for the
exchange of knowledge and ideas about building safety and
construction regulation. In 1950, BOCA published the BOCA
Basic Building Code, the organizations first model code. BOCA
published a series of books called the BOCA National Codes, which
contain detailed standards for all aspects of building construction
of which the BOCA National Plumbing Code was a part of.
At a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Building Officials
Conference of America in May of 1963, action was taken to establish
a Plumbing Code Committee whose function was to prepare and
present a BOCA Basic Plumbing Code for adoption. A Plumbing
Code Committee was subsequently appointed and they held
meetings during each annual meeting in the years of 1964, 1965
and 1966. At its annual meeting on June 9, 1968, the Executive
Committee approved the publication of the Basic Plumbing Code
and directed staff to accept proposed changes to the Basic Plumbing
Code for consideration during the next regular code change cycle.

10

Plumbing Standards

SBCCI Standard Plumbing Code

The Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI)

published the Southern Standard Building Code on November 16,
1945 and before long they would also see the need to produce a
correlated set of codes. In developing the plumbing code, members
and others of the SBCCI recognized the need for safe and adequate
code requirements to protect the public. This code was created
to work in conjunction with the Standard Building, Gas and
Mechanical Codes to provide safe and adequate code requirements
to protect the public.
The Standard Plumbing Code was adopted in November of
1955 by a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Southern
Building Code Congress International. The Standard Plumbing
Code was created from years of experience of many individuals
in many organizations who were thoroughly familiar with safe
installations of plumbing systems.

ICBO / Uniform Plumbing Code

In 1922, the founding purpose of the International Conference of

Building Officials (ICBO) was the development of a code that all
communities could accept and enforce. The goal was reached in 1927
with the publication of the Uniform Building Code. This code not
only addressed the traditional structural and occupancy requirements,
but also provided needed guidance concerning chimneys and heating
apparatuses, along with fire protection installation requirements.
The ICBO Plumbing Code was created based on the memberships
vision of a need for a plumbing code that would be designed to
be compatible with the Uniform Codes and its many related
publications. The Uniform Plumbing Code was first published in
1946. There were also printings in 1948 and 1951, and they have
continued with a 3-year code update cycle since then. The Uniform
Plumbing Code served as the plumbing code for ICBO for many
years, until 1993 when ICBO decided to join with the International
Code Council (ICC) and end their relationship with IAPMO.

The International Plumbing Code

The International Plumbing Code had its first edition published

in 1995. This was a joint effort by the three code groups of the
International Code Council (ICC) at that time, including: BOCA,
ICBO, and SBCCI. The first draft, prepared for review by the
industry, contained only excerpts from the three plumbing codes,
with no new concepts or ideas added. All of the allowable practices
were already permitted and used by one of the model plumbing
codes; the premise was that the code should have its origin based
on the code content of the existing codes.

It was recognized that no one part of the United States had used
all of the plumbing practices that would be permitted in the new
plumbing code. Terminology would also be initially difficult,
since different parts of the country use the same name to describe
different plumbing systems. When the draft was issued, it was
subject to a review process through a series of public hearings and
a committee of plumbing officials was appointed to consider all of
the testimony on the first draft. The hearings were well attended by
plumbing experts from all areas of the industry. New provisions
were proposed for inclusion at the hearings, including a complete
rewrite of the backflow section. The new requirements received
overwhelming support at the public hearings.
January - March 2012

After modifying the draft to include the acceptable changes based

on testimony at the public hearings, the document was forwarded
to the membership of BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI and the three
organizations voted unanimously to accept the new code as a
replacement document for their organizations plumbing codes.
In 1995, the first edition of the International Plumbing Code was
published by the International Code Council. Now a new edition
of the IPC is promulgated every three years.

A Call for One Code

A few years ago, we came very close to combining the plumbing

and mechanical codes into one model plumbing code. A one-code
summit was hosted by the American Society of Plumbing Engineers
(ASPE) and held in Chicago, IL. Shortly afterward a series of
meetings were held between IAPMO and ICC and details were
worked out to develop one plumbing code. The deal fell apart when
it was sent to each organizations membership; politics seemed to
get in the way of having one code.

about
the author
Ron George is President of Plumb-Tech Design & Consulting,
LCC, a company specializing in plumbing, piping, fire
protection and HVAC system design and consulting services.
Ron is a Certified Plumbing Designer through ASPE and he
has over 30 years experience designing plumbing and fire
protection systems. He is a member of the ASSE Product
Standards Committee, the ASSE Seal Control Board and
several working groups. He has served on the International
Plumbing Code Committee and he has served as a member
and Chairman of the International Residential Plumbing &
Mechanical Code Committee. He is active in plumbing code
and plumbing product standard development committees with
ICC, IAPMO, ASSE, ASME, ISEA, NFPA and ASTM.
Website: www.plumb-techllc.com
E-mail: ron@plumb-techllc.com

A Two Code Town

Recently, the city of Marion, Iowa announced that they officially

adopted both model plumbing codes in the United States, the 2012
International Plumbing Code and the 2012 Uniform Plumbing
Code. Im not sure if that is a first, but it is unique.
City ordinance number 12-03 is an ordinance adopting the
International Plumbing Code, 2012 Edition, and the ordinance
provides penalties for code violations. Section 161.01 adopts the
2012 International Plumbing Code by reference and states it shall
be known as the Marion Plumbing Code. Section 161.04 of the
ordinance states: The Marion Plumbing Code is hereby amended by
adding a new section, 105.2.2, to the International Plumbing Code
as follows: 105.2.2, The Uniform Plumbing Code, 2012 Edition, is
hereby approved as an equivalent method for complete plumbing
systems.
Exception: Administrative regulations shall be as provided in the
International Plumbing Code, 2012 Edition, as amended in this
ordinance.

This article on the history of codes was a series of historical events

reported in various papers and publications and gathered here by
Ron George, CPD, President of Plumb-Tech Design and Consulting
Services, LLC. (http://www.Plumb-TechLLC.com) (734) 322-0225

1. A paper, authored by Julius Ballanco, presented at the 4th World

Plumbing Conference and published in the conference booklet.
2. A document contributed by Lee Clifton and Jay Peters of ICC
3. Portions were extracted from a book on the history of IAPMO,
1926 to 2006, Eight Decades of Excellence, by Anne V. Sonner.
4. Internet research.

January - March 2012

Plumbing Standards

11

Rainwater harvesting provisions were introduced in the GPMCS

and the UPC by the IAPMO Green Technical Committee (GTC)
as part of a broader effort to reduce the energy and water
consumption of plumbing and mechanical systems while
ensuring that these systems are safe and reliable. The GTC is
comprised of the broadest group of expert stakeholders ever
assembled to develop sustainable plumbing and mechanical
requirements. ASPE and ARCSA are well represented on the
GTC and played a critical role in the development of the firstever model code provisions for rainwater harvesting. Jeffrey L.
Ingertson, CPD, FASPE, ASPEs Vice President of Membership,
serves as ASPEs official representative, while Bob Boulware,
Immediate Past President of ARCSA (and an ASPE member),
represents ARCSA. Larry N. Oliver, CPD, FASPE, former ASPE
President, and April K. Trafton, President of Donald Dickerson
and Associates, round out the slate of plumbing engineering
members of the GTC. Additionally, more than 20 sustainable
plumbing engineering experts serve among the more than 125
members of the 12 task groups that operate under the GTC.

CODE HISTORY

CODES HARVEST

RAINWATER
by Dave Viola, IAPMO Director of Special Services

As cities around the globe struggle with drought, water quality,

supply constraints and failing infrastructures, the topic of water
shortages is nothing new in our industry. However, the idea of
new plumbing codes and design standards, working together to
assist plumbing engineers in adding harvested rainwater systems
to their design arsenal, has been uncharted territory, until now.

One of the more notable and high-profile examples of these

activities is California Assembly Bill 275: The Rainwater
Catchment Act of 2011, which seeks to permit the capture
and use of rainwater for non-drinking purposes in California (at
the time of the writing of this article, the California Legislature
has passed AB 275 and the bill is awaiting the Governors
signature). AB 275 requires that the installation of systems
for the indoor, nonpotable use of rainwater must comply with
the requirements set forth in the IAPMO Green Supplement.
Additionally, definitions and other bill requirements came
directly from the ARCSA/ASPE Rainwater Catchment
Plumbing Engineering Design Standard. The availability of
these documents ensures that strong and consistent codes
and design practices are in place, and gives legislators the
confidence they need to pass bills like AB 275.

With the publication of the 2010 IAPMO Green Plumbing and

Mechanical Code Supplement (GPMCS), 2012 IAPMO Uniform
Plumbing Code (UPC) and the Rainwater Catchment Plumbing
Engineering Design Standard by the American Rainwater Catchment
Systems Association (ARCSA) and American Society of Plumbing
Engineers (ASPE), the plumbing industry now has authoritative tools
at its disposal to standardize the safe and reliable use of rainwater
for potable and nonpotable applications.

12

Plumbing Standards

Although rainwater harvesting is an ancient practice, it has

never been directly addressed by national plumbing codes. It
appears that rainwater usage began to disappear in many parts
of the world with the rise of urbanization, centralized supply
systems and the need to meet the escalating demand for a safe
and reliable potable water supply. When national codes began
to emerge in the 1900s, rainwater harvesting was not a
common practice in metropolitan areas, and as a result, rainwater harvesting was never specifically addressed. The lack
of direct coverage in the codes has been one of the primary
hindrances to the use of harvested rainwater, until now. The
timing of the completion of the 2010 GPMCS, 2012 UPC and
the ARCSA/ASPE design standard couldnt have been better,
as the escalating stress on our available water supplies has
spurred a flurry of legislative and regulatory efforts across the
United States aimed at permitting the use of rainwater as
a means of offsetting some of the pressures on more
conventional potable water sources.

January - March 2012

January - March 2012

WHAT DO THE CODES AND THE

STANDARD COVER?
Application
To start, the GPMCS and UPC contain identical provisions
establishing that rainwater collected from roofs or other
above-ground, manmade surfaces is permitted to be used
for nonpotable applications, which include toilet and urinal
flushing, trap priming, irrigation, industrial processes, water
features, cooling towers and other applications approved
by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The section
addressing rainwater applications is intentionally broad to
also permit its use in car washes and automatic fire sprinkler
systems. In a separate appendix, the GPMCS and UPC provide
comprehensive requirements for the use of rainwater for
potable water applications in homes and businesses.
In instances where rainwater contacts parking lots, driveways,
pedestrian surfaces and other ground surfaces, the GPMCS
and UPC require more rigorous filtration and treatment methods
before it can be used for plumbing and irrigation applications.
Rainwater contacting these surfaces is handled differently
because the runoff may contain additional contaminants
and health risks (e.g. oils, road salts, debris, hydrocarbons
and pathogens) that require unique or enhanced treatment
strategies. This approach was taken to mirror the scope and
intent of the ARCSA/ASPE design standard, which does not
apply to the collection of rainwater from vehicular and other
similar surfaces.
Maintenance, Testing and Inspection
The GPMCS and UPC require rainwater harvesting systems
to be inspected, tested and maintained regularly, and establish
a minimum frequency for these activities to occur. These
documents assign the responsibility of compliance to the
property owner or a designated appointee. Finally, a maintenance log that includes a record of the inspections, testing
and maintenance is required to be kept up-to-date and on-site
at all times for inspection.
Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control
Because of the heightened cross-connection, public health and
safety concerns associated with the indoor use of rainwater,
the GPMCS and UPC specify very detailed requirements
addressing the protection of the potable water supply against
cross-connection. Rainwater systems are not permitted to
have a direct connection to any potable water supply or
alternate water source system. Potable or reclaimed (recycled)
water is permitted to be used as makeup water for a rainwater
catchment system, provided the potable or reclaimed (recycled)
water supply connection is protected by an air gap or a
reduced-pressure principle backflow preventer. Where any
portion of a rainwater system is installed within a building, a
cross-connection test is required to ensure that an inadvertent
connection between the potable and nonpotable rainwater
systems has not occurred. As a final level of protection,
rainwater piping systems are required to be identified with
the wording, Caution: Nonpotable Rainwater, Do Not Drink,
and have a purple colored background.

Plumbing Standards

13

System Design
The GPMCS and UPC require the pressurized portion of the
rainwater system delivering water to the plumbing distribution
system to be installed in accordance with the water pipe sizing
provisions of the plumbing code. They also require gutters,
roof drains and rainwater conveyance pipe to be sized as storm
drains in accordance with the plumbing code. The GPMCS
and UPC reference the ARCSA/ASPE design standard for
guidance on estimating the potential for harvesting rainwater
at a particular site (determining the maximum amount of rain
that can be collected), estimating demand and properly sizing
storage tanks.
Comprehensive and harmonized provisions addressing aboveand below-grade storage tank locations, supports, materials,
construction, drainage and overflow, access openings and
markings are provided in the GPMCS, UPC and ARCSA/ASPE
design standard.

NON-POTABLE WATER HARVESTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS

A. Catchment Area
B. Gutter
C. Transport
D. First Flush Filter
E. Bleed Valve
F. Secondary Filter
G. Storage Cistern

H. Overflow Pipe
I. Float Valve
J. Pump/Controller
K. Municipal Supply
L. Clothes Washing
M. Toilet Flushing
N. Landscape Irrigation

The GPMCS and UPC also contain provisions addressing algae

control, vermin protection, rainwater discharge into sewer
systems, debris filtering and removal, first flush devices and
roof washers.

2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012-2012
associated design strategies. For potable applications, the
GPMCS, UPC and ARCSA/ASPE design standard have very
specific requirements and installation details for filtration and
system disinfection.
In closing, with code obstacles eliminated, it appears that
rainwater collection and use are poised to become mainstream
as jurisdictions around the world turn to rainwater reuse
to address the intensifying water crises. The IAPMO Green
Plumbing and Mechanical Code Supplement, Uniform
Plumbing Code and ARCSA/ASPE Rainwater Catchment
Plumbing Engineering Design Standard combine to provide
the necessary tools for inspectors, installers and system
designers to safely and confidently embrace and utilize
rainwater.

Water Quality
The most important goal of the GPMCS, UPC and ARCSA/
ASPE design standard is to ensure that the output water
meets a safe level of quality for the intended application.
Numerous treatment devices and strategies that can be used
to accomplish this are available to system designers. Although
the GPMCS and UPC require adherence to minimum water
quality standards for nonpotable application, they provide
flexibility in the use of treatment technologies, such as
flocculation/sedimentation, filtration, chlorination, ozonation,
ion exchange and UV disinfection methods. Again, the GPMCS
and UPC reference the ARCSA/ASPE design standard for
additional guidance on the various treatment technologies and

14

Plumbing Standards

about the author

As IAPMOs Director of Special Services, Dave Viola

oversees the associations green building and sustainable
construction codes initiative and is active in the education,
code development, and promotion of IAPMO programs and
services, including the Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform
Mechanical Code, Green Plumbing and Mechanical Code
Supplement and Uniform Solar Energy Code.

January - March 2012

UPDATES:

2012 National
Standard Plumbing
Code, International
PLumbing Code &
Green Plumbing
and Mechanical
Code Supplement

JanuaryPlumbing
15
- March 2012
Standards

Plumbing
January
Standards
- March 2012
15

Whats New in the

2012 International
Plumbing Code?
by Lee Clifton, Director of Plumbing Programs
International Code Council (ICC)

The IPC continues to emphasize both

prescriptive and performance related
provisions. The code changes have made
many improvements to the 2012 code
that provide clarity of content, resolve
common interpretation issues and gives
plumbing contractors and engineers the
tools necessary to take advantage of
new technology. Air admittance valves
complying with reference standard
ASSE 1049, Performance Requirements
for Individual and Branch-Type Air
Admittance Valves for Chemical Waste
Systems, are now permitted to be used
for venting chemical waste systems.
The single-stack vent system method,
similar to the Philadelphia stack drainage
system, has also been added, which now
complements the most extensive collection
of venting options in the world.
These are just a few of the significant
changes:
Section 901.3, 918.8
Air Admittance Valves for Chemical
Waste Vent System
901.3 Chemical waste vent systems.
The vent system for a chemical waste
system shall be independent of the sanitary
vent system and shall terminate separately
through the roof to the open air outdoors
or to an air admittance valve that complies
with ASSE 1049. Air admittance valves
for chemical waste systems shall be
constructed of materials approved in
accordance with Section 702.5 and shall
be tested for chemical resistance in
accordance with ASTM F1412.

16

Plumbing Standards

917.8 918.8 Prohibited installations.

Air admittance valves shall not be installed
in non-neutralized special waste systems
as described in Chapter 8 except where
such valves are in compliance with
ASSE 1049, are constructed of materials
approved in accordance with Section 702.5
and are tested for chemical resistance in
accordance with ASTM F1412.
Air admittance valves shall not be located
in spaces utilized as supply or return air
plenums.
Section 901.3, 918.8 continues
Chapter 14
ASSE 1049-2009
Performance Requirements for Individual
and Branch Type Air Admittances Valves
for Chemical Waste Systems
ASTM F1412-01
Standard Specification for Polyolefin Pipe
and Fittings for Corrosive Waste Drainage
Systems
Commentary: The American Society
of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) recently
developed ASSE/ANSI Standard 10492009, Performance Requirements for
Individual and Branch Type Air Admittance
Valves for Chemical Waste Systems.
Air admittance valves (AAVs) that are in
compliance with ASSE/ANSI 1049, meet
the materials requirements of Section
702.5 and are tested to ASTM F1412 for
chemical resistance, are now allowed to
serve as the vent for non-neutralized
special waste systems as an option to

chemical waste vent

piping terminating
outdoors. It is quite
common to see
laboratory sinks
that receive chemical
waste located in
islands in the middle
of rooms. To vent the
traps for these sinks
using vent piping that
can only terminate
outdoors requires
extensive labor and
Studor ChemVent
material. Allowing the
Air Admittance Valve
(courtesy of IPS Corporation)
use of the AAVs will
significantly reduce the cost of plumbing
these laboratories and similar facilities.

Section 917
Single Stack Vent System
917.1 Where permitted.
A drainage stack shall serve as a
single stack vent system where sized
and installed in accordance with Sections
917.2 through 917.9. The drainage stack
and branch piping shall be the vents for the
drainage system. The drainage stack shall
have a stack vent. (Additional information
and sizing table provided in section 917
that is not shown here)
Commentary: In a Single Stack Vent
System, the drainage stack serves as both
a single-stack drainage and vent system.
The drainage stack and branch piping
are considered as vents for the drainage
system as a whole. Pipe sizing in a single-

January - March 2012

stack drainage system is larger than in a

conventional one, however, a significant
cost saving is achieved by the reduction
of the vent piping needed. This venting
system serves as a viable alternative to
the more traditional systems being used.

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Figure 917 Single Stack System

For a Six Story Building

January - March 2012

bt

For a more in depth preview of the

significant changes that have occurred
to the 2012 International Plumbing,
Mechanical and Fuel Gas Codes (PMG),
ICC has made a 20 minute video
presentation available on YouTube.
This overview
of changes
for the 2012
International
PMG Codes
will give you a
preview of what
the significant
changes to the
International
Plumbing
Code, International Mechanical Code
and International Fuel Gas Code, 2012
Edition, publication has to offer. The
webinar will inform code users on how
helpful the new book is in identifying the
specific code changes that have occurred
and, more important, in understanding
the reasons behind the changes. Our
publication has been a very valuable
resource for jurisdictions in the code

adoption process in the past. You can

access the video presentation at the
following address: http://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=SAhAKHouDNs.

The International
Code Council is
a member-focused
association
dedicated to helping the building
safety community
and construction
industry provide
safe and
sustainable
construction through the development of
codes and standards used in the design,
build and compliance process. Most U.S.
communities and many global markets
choose the International Codes.
The copyrighted Code sections
reproduced in this article are done so
with the permission of the International
Code Council. All rights reserved.

Plumbing Standards

17

GTC Puts Finishing

Touches on Green
Code Supplement
by Dave Viola, IAPMO Director of Special Services
& Pete DeMarco, IAPMO Director of Special Programs

On December 8-9, 2011, the IAPMO

Green Technical Committee (GTC)
completed its work on the second edition
of the Green Plumbing and Mechanical
Code Supplement. This was no small feat
when considering the number and the
depth of the comments that were received
during the supplements public comment
period. Yet, once again, the GTC came
through with flying colors, ensuring that
the supplement remains the most
comprehensive green construction code
in the country for plumbing and mechanical
applications.
Among the new or revised provisions that
will be contained in the second edition of
the supplement are the following:
Plumbing Design, Fixtures and Fixture
Fittings
Reduces the maximum flush volume
for non-residential from 1.6 gpf to 1.28
gpf. The only remaining caveat is that
1.6 gpm toilets are still permitted where
installed in remote locations without the
benefit of supplemental drain flows to
assist drainline carry.
Reduces the maximum flow rate for
kitchen faucets from 2.2 gpm to 1.8 gpm
and for pre-rinse spray valves from 1.6
gpm to 1.3 gpm.
New provisions for dipper well faucets
to address unnecessary water waste
resulting from the continuous flow of
water at high rates.
Adds provisions for rehabilitating piping
systems with epoxy lining systems.

18

Plumbing Standards

Maximum consumption limits set for trap

primers and requires the use of alternate
water source to prime traps where
available.
Simplifies maximum hot water volume
calculations.
Limits the use of hot water recirculation
pumps to a buildings hours of operation
to prevent energy waste.
Alternate Water Source Systems
Minimum water quality standards added
for nonpotable and potable rainwater
catchment systems.
Incorporates new standards for water
reuse treatment technologies to ensure
that systems properly treat water to safe
quality levels.
Expands and clarifies provisions allowing
gray water, black water, rainwater, storm
water, dry weather runoff, swimming
pool backwash, condensate, cooling
tower blow down, foundation drainage
and commercial kitchen appliance water
discharge to be captured, treated and
reused for toilet and urinal flushing,
irrigation and other approved uses.
Mechanical and HVAC Design
Now requires duct leakage testing for low
pressure systems.
New water efficiency measures for
evaporative coolers limiting water
consumption to 3.5 gallon maximum
per ton of cooling and requiring water
consumption markings on the equipment.
Updates HVAC energy efficiency
provisions to the 2010 edition of
ASHRAE 90.1.

New provisions intended to prevent

HVAC system over-sizing.
All New Requirements for Landscape
Irrigation Systems
Requirement for dedicated water meters
on systems servicing 2,500 square feet
or more.
Requirements for irrigation controls to
respond to climate or soil conditions and
to shut off during rain events.
System performance requirements
to prevent run off and spraying onto
adjacent properties, impervious surfaces
and buildings.
System design requirements pertaining to supply line drainage and sprinkler
head performance.
The provisions listed above only
scratch the surface. Once again, it was
a privilege to be able to work with such
an incredibly knowledgeable and diverse
group of passionate stakeholders that
comprise the GTC. As staff, guests that
attend GTC meetings constantly tell
interested parties and us how productive
and informative these meetings are.
Everyone walks away from GTC meetings
knowing a good deal more than they did
when they walked into the meeting room.
I can think of no higher compliment.
In order to further leverage this gathering of
industry experts, IAPMO has an additional
treat in store for users of the supplement.
Several GTC members have agreed to
co-author papers that will be published in
the appendix of the second edition.

January - March 2012

Our esteemed co-authors include:

Phil Campbell (United Association)
and Gary Klein (Affiliated International
Management, LLC) who will write about
Hot Water Design for Green Buildings;
Rob Zimmerman (Kohler Co.) and John
Koeller (Koeller and Associates) will
discuss The Future of Indoor Water
Efficiency; Brent Mecham (Irrigation
Association) and Thomas Pape (Best
Management Partners) will tackle
Modifying User Behavior on Irrigation
System Use; and Bill Hoffman (Hoffman
and Associates, LLC) and Tom Meyer
(Praxis Green) will address Water Meets
Energy Synergies and Conflict (note:
titles subject to revision).

the Green Plumbing and Mechanical

Supplement than to show off the expertise
of our GTC members.
Finally, we would be remiss if we didnt
mention Bill Erickson, chair of the GTC.
Bill is the glue that makes the GTC work.
His fantastic sense of humor, combined
with a no-nonsense lets get this done
sensibility, is directly related to the success
of the supplement. I know I can speak on
behalf of the entire GTC and IAPMO Staff
when I say that we are indebted to Bill for
the leadership he has provided.

Founded in Los Angeles in 1926, IAPMO

has grown to be recognized the world over
for its Uniform Codes. With offices in 12
U.S. states and 13 countries, IAPMO has
assisted with code development in such
diverse places as Saudi Arabia, China,
India, Jordan, Egypt, Israel, Vietnam,
Indonesia, Philippines, Venezuela,
Colombia and the United Arab Emirates.
For more information, visit:
http://www,IAPMO.org.
IAPMO
4755 E. Philadelphia St.
Ontario, CA 91761 USA
TELEPHONE: 1.909.472.4100
FAX: 1.909.472.4150

These esteemed GTC members will then

present their papers at the International
Emerging Technology Symposium, which
will be co-convened by IAPMO and the
World Plumbing Council on May 1-2 in
Bethesda, MD. I can think of no better
way to continue to grow the influence of

ASSE5000
SERIES

THE ONLY ANSI APPROVED

CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS STANDARD

REFERENCED IN ALL THREE MAJOR MODEL CODES!

Uniform Plumbing Code

International Plumbing Code

National Standard Plumbing Code

The ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 5000-2009 is the Cross-Connection Control Professional Qualifications Standard. It covers the
minimum requirements for an individual to become a Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester, Cross- Connection Control
Surveyor, Backflow Prevention Assembly Repairer, Fire-Sprinkler System Cross-Connection Control Tester and/or Backflow
Protection Program Administrator. The Series 5000 was developed under the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
policy of openness and consensus. ANSI approved June, 2009.

2012 National Standard

PLumbing Code

by Chuck White, Vice President, Technical & Code Services

PHCC - National Association

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors

(PHCC) National Association is proud
to carry on the tradition of the National
Standard Plumbing Code (NSPC). In 1933,
the originally named National Association of Master Plumbers, founded in 1883,
published the Standard Plumbing Code.
As the association has changed over the
years, its commitment to the development
of a plumbing practice, design and
installation code has not changed. The
NSPC has been regularly reviewed
and updated for many years. As an
enhancement, an illustrated version of
the code was developed years ago to
provide comments and diagrams that help
with the understanding of code provisions.
This has proved to be a popular format;
many students and practitioners utilize the
illustrations and comments to assist
in implementation of the code. The
illustrations have also been maintained
and modified as changes in practice
have developed.
The 2012 NSPC has been developed
by parties associated with true industry
experience: contractors, engineers, building
officials and manufacturers, as well as the
public. Proposed changes are accepted
from all interested parties for consideration.
A technical committee of industry volunteers evaluates proposed code changes
to determine relevance and applicability
to the evolving changes in practice,
technology, regulations or efficiency.
Proposed changes are considered in a
public forum, which allows interested
parties to present information to the
committee prior to a vote on the proposal.
The NSPC is updated on a three-year
cycle and a mid-cycle supplement is also
developed and published.

20
January
Plumbing
- March 2012
Standards

There are many changes incorporated in

the 2012 NSPC. For example, language
has been changed to reflect the new
requirements for Lead-Free materials
in potable water applications. Referenced
standards have been included to promote
the health effects of drinking water
components and these changes ensure
that installations will be compliant with the
Safe Drinking Water Act. It has long been
said that The Plumber Protects the Health
of the Nation; the 2012 NSPC strives
to further that industry ideal. Applicable
standards are referenced so components
of potable water systems can be easily
verified by installers, owners and building
officials as to their compliance with potable
requirements.

The 2012 NSPC has undergone a

thorough review process and is in production at this time. Proposed changes for the
next supplement cycle are currently being
accepted and change forms are available
online at: http://www.phccweb.org. PHCC
is committed to the promulgation of this
code and thanks all contributors in this
process for sharing their dedication to the
plumbing industry. Questions or comments
may be directed via e-mail to: Chuck White,
Vice President, Technical & Code Service,
white@naphcc.org. Distribution of the 2012
National Standard Plumbing Code will be
available late in the first quarter of 2012.

Appendix G has also been changed

in the 2012 code. Information pertaining
to graywater is now incorporated in the
body of the code. This allows alternate
sources of water to be considered in certain
applications, promoting water conservation.
The new Appendix G in the 2012 NSPC
includes selected sections from the
International Plumbing and Mechanical
Officials (IAPMO) Green Plumbing and
Mechanical Code Supplement. IAPMO
submitted a proposed change to the code
offering these sections for inclusion in
2012 and this section offers guidance to
designers, contractors and building officials
in several aspects of sustainable construction. The supplement was developed by
the IAPMO Green Technical Committee,
which has contributors from PHCC as well
as other industry members. PHCC and
the NSPC Committee appreciate the
opportunity to include this information
and are committed to supporting industry
cooperation to help preserve our natural
resources.

by

ASSE Region #2 Director

IAPMO Upper Mid-West Regional Manager

NOTE: This information is the opinion of the author and not the official position of IAPMO or ASSE
All plumbing systems are required to be
properly designed in accordance with
plumbing codes to prevent contamination
of drinking water and to provide for the safe
disposal of waste. Even in the present day,
people become ill as a result of improper
plumbing installations. Plumbers who
have been trained through apprenticeship
programs and maintain their skills through
continuing education are the ones
responsible for the installation of these
systems. The ones we rely on to ensure
that these installations are installed per
code are certified plumbing inspectors.
Like a chain, a plumbing system has many
links, and a chain is only as strong as the
weakest link. The Uniform Plumbing Code
(UPC) and the International Plumbing Code
(IPC) are the model codes that regulate how
plumbing systems are designed, installed
and inspected to ensure that the health and

Plumbing
January
Standards
- March 2012
20

January - March 2012

welfare of the public is protected. There are

distinct differences between these codes
and some of them will be pointed out in this
article. However, the one that is superior or
the one that is the weakest link will be left
for you to decide.
The International Association of Plumbing
and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) was
founded in 1926 by a group of plumbing
inspectors who saw the need for uniformity
of installation practices, material specification, design, and inspection in the plumbing
industry. IAPMO has promulgated the UPC
continuously since 1945 and has served
the plumbing industry longer than any other
plumbing code in the United States. The UPC
is the only plumbing code that is accredited
by the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) and designated as an
American National Standard.

The IPC is published by the International Code

Council (ICC), which was established in 1994
by the combination of three separate building
code associations: Building Officials and
Code Administrators International (BOCA),
International Conference of Building
Officials (ICBO) and Southern Building Code
Congress International (SBCCI). The I-Codes
are developed using the governmental
consensus process, in which designated
appointees who are employed by the government are the only eligible voters in the final
stages of their process.
The development process is a very
important consideration when developing a
plumbing code. As mandated by ANSI, the
UPC is a true consensus document. Experts
from all segments of the plumbing industry
are assured due process, openness, balance,
and a voice and a vote in all aspects, from
beginning to end of the development process.

Plumbing Standards

21

These experts include plumbers, inspectors,

engineers, architects, manufacturers, contractors and anyone else who has a stake
in the industry. After all, who would know
the plumbing industry better than those who
are actually dedicated and involved in the
industry itself?

the City of Milwaukee, the thought

of carrying a separate code book for
commercial and residential is
preposterous. In fact, the plumber,
inspector and/or contractor is required
to carry up to six I-Code books to equal
one UPC. This is confusing, to say the least.

The ICC process does not allow for such

balance and input from the industry. Instead,
at the final hearings it is left to public officials,
the overwhelming majority of which are not
plumbing officials, to vote on the changes
to the IPC. Why? Perhaps government
employees know the plumbing industry best,
even though most have not gone through a
plumbing apprenticeship, held a plumbing
license or, at the very least, installed or
designed plumbing systems. If you need
heart surgery, you go to a heart surgeon.
But when it comes to the plumbing code,
the ICCs philosophy is that the government
knows best. There are many differences in
the codes themselves, in addition to the
very contradictory processes that the
two associations utilize and believe in
wholeheartedly.

The UPC maintains the necessary balance

between prescriptive requirements and
allowable performance standards. In other
words, it tells you how to get there so little, if
any, interpretation is necessary. At the same
time, it allows engineered designed systems
to be created by the professional design
community, which provides flexibility when
required. With each three-year code cycle,
the UPC remains current with technology, yet
maintains high and sustainable standards. It
is cost effective, consistent, easy to use, and
promotes the safety of the publics health and
uniformity throughout the industry.

The UPC is a turnkey document,

which simply
means that the
user requires only
one book for the
installation, design
and inspection of
both residential
and commercial
plumbing systems.
The philosophy of
providing every necessary aspect pertaining
to plumbing systems in one book not only
promotes uniform installation, but also
promotes uniform enforcement.
With the IPC, multiple code books are
required to do what the UPC does. A perfect
example is that the IPC is for commercial
plumbing installations and the International
Residential Code (IRC) is for residential
plumbing systems. Now, as a Licensed
Plumber and former Plumbing Inspector for

The IPC is a performance or designer

code with some prescriptive aspects. It offers
broad guidelines and performance criteria,
which leaves it to engineers, designers
and inspectors to interpret exactly how to
meet those requirements, often without
uniformity. A code that is too performance
based may provide an easier avenue for
inconsistency between installation and
enforcement because the specifics are
unclear and some code sections may refer
the user to separate documents. For example:
the UPC provides detailed access requirements for backflow preventers; the IPC simply
states access shall be provided as specified
by the manufacturer. So, if Building A has a
different manufactured backflow preventer
installed than in Building B, the installations
could be vastly different and inconsistent
with each other. In many cases, the
manufacturers literature states that the
installation should be in accordance with
local codes, which leaves the installer and
inspector with little or no guidance. One final
observation is the unsubstantiated rhetoric
that the UPC does not mesh or function
properly with other codes. If this were true,
then most of the United States that use the
International Building Code (IBC), National

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and

the World Plumbing Council invite you to attend

Electrical Code (NEC), UPC

or other codes that are not
I-Codes would be dysfunctional.
The fact is that the UPC, and the
many other codes that are vastly
adopted in America and abroad,
have worked seamlessly together
with all building codes for decades.
If that wasnt true, the same argument should
then be applied to the IPC or any other code
that has been amended locally. When a
code like the IPC, IBC or IRC is adopted, the
majority of the time it is heavily amended
to meet local requirements. Does this mean
that because those codes amended by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction did not utilize
the ICC governmental consensus process, it
makes them incompatible with the family
of codes?
The fact is that model codes are suppose to
provide code language derived from experts,
in this case plumbing, so that a jurisdiction
or state does not have to re-invent the wheel
when writing or re-writing a code to remain
current with technology. Just because a
plumbing code says, See Building Code,
or See Mechanical Code, or Install per
manufacturers recommendations, doesnt
mean that they are harmonized.
So when it comes to choosing a plumbing
code to help protect the health of the nation,
which link would you prefer? A handyman type of link who can do a little bit of
everything? Or a master plumber type of
link who is a well trained, educated and
focused expert with decades of successful
experience?

about the author

Matthew Marciniak is the

Upper Mid-West Regional
Manager for IAPMO and Region
#2 Director for ASSE. Marciniak
is a Licensed Master Plumber
and former Plumbing Inspector for the City of
Milwaukee. Marciniak serves on many ASSE
committees, performs continuous compliance
inspections for IAPMO R&T, and serves as
an instructor for the Plumbers Local 75s
apprenticeship program.

InternatIonal
emergIng technology SympoSIum

May 1 2, 2012 washington dc marriott bethesda north hotel

There is no other occasion where you will be able to meet all at once and in one place- so many well-known experts in the fields
of water and energy efficiency.
These experts will expose you to emerging products and practices and you will witness them exchange views on new trends
in the industry. You will be able to hear ideas and approaches about emerging technologies coming to market; learn about
innovative green plumbing and mechanical concepts; view presentations and engage in timely discussions on how the water utility,
manufacturing, engineering and trade industries have found solutions through emerging technologies in the water efficiency,
plumbing and mechanical industries.
Sponsors, presenters, and panelists participating in this symposium represent a diverse body of knowledge in the fields of water
quality, sanitation and health, water reuse, water and embedded energy, solar, geothermal and other renewable technologies, fat,
oil and grease (FOG) discharge mitigation, and even topics raised by you and other audience participants during the symposium.

If you view the 2010 proceedings, you wont want to miss this one!

This 2012 symposium is a highly anticipated reprise of the 2008 and 2010 symposiums. To view video excerpts from
these symposiums, search IAPMO on www.youtube.com.
There are three ways to SECURE YOUR SEAT RIGHT NOW!
1. Complete this form and FAX it to: IAPMO and WPC 2012 Emerging Technology Symposium.
Fax number: 909-472-4220
2. Complete this form and MAIL it to: IAPMO and WPC 2012 Emerging Technology Symposium.
Address: 4755 E. Philadelphia St. Ontario, CA 91761
3. Complete this form ONLINE: https://forms.iapmo.org/ets
Name:

Representing:

Address:
Telephone:

E-mail:

Early bird registration available until 2/15/2012

IAPMO members US$345
Non-members US$445
After 2/15/2012
o IAPMO members US$395

o Non-members US$495

Method of payment:
o Check
o Credit Card (o Visa o Master o AMEX)
Please mail check to: IAPMO and WPC 2012 Emerging Technology Symposium
4755 E. Philadelphia St., Ontario, CA 91761
Card holder name:
Credit Card #:

Signature:
CVC #:

Exp.date:

Credit Card Billing Address:

Refund policy: Cancellation prior to March 15, 2012 full refund Cancellation on or after March 16 no refund

We are continually seeking new sponsors, supporters, and emerging experts. How to contact us:
Call Maria Sol Alba 708-995-3005 or email: sol.alba@iapmo.org

chapter spotlight

MICHIGAN CHAPTER

by: Esteban Cabello, PE, FASPE, Chapter President

JRED Engineering, Inc., President

featured sustaining member

National Inspection Testing and Certification Corporation (NITC)

The Michigan Chapter of the American Society of Sanitary

Engineering (ASSE) was organized September 16, 1949 at
the Engineering Society of Detroit headquarters. We had
50 members in Michigan at this time, as promised by L.
Glen Shields two years previously in Phoenix, AZ. Over the
years, Michigan has had five members serve as International
Presidents of the Society. In terms of membership, the
Michigan Chapter peaked in the late 1950s, with over 345
members. Three national Annual Meetings have come to
Detroit through the auspices of three International Presidents:
A.R. McGonegal, 1929; Glen Shields, 1951; and William R.
Koenig, 1966. In those early years, ASSE Michigan Chapter
members chaired many important national committees.
The Michigan Chapter continues to stay active in the plumbing
community by having monthly joint-membership meetings
with its sister chapter, the Eastern Michigan Chapter of the
American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE). This local
partnership has been going on for over 15 years. The monthly
meetings provide free dinner to attendees (graciously
subsidized by local manufacturers representatives), timely
instructional topic presentations by local (and sometimes
national) experts in the field, and general networking. We have
approximately eight monthly membership meetings per year;
we find this to be beneficial for both local chapter societies,
as many of ASPEs Board of Directors are also members of
ASSEs Board of Directors.
Our chapter hosts a yearly
dinner awards and installation
banquet that recognizes
individual member achievements, as well as the
installation of our officers.
Our yearly banquet is always
well attended and has been
going on for twenty-plus years
now. We typically have
several ASSE Northern
Ohio Chapter members
attend this annual meeting as well. Our awards cover a wide
spectrum of the plumbing industry, including engineers,
inspectors, manufacturer representatives, cross-connection
control and outstanding people. We also have a college
scholarship committee that awards a $1,500 scholarship to
a deserving junior/senior engineering student.

24

Plumbing Standards

This year (01/28/12),

our newly elected
International President,
Donald R. Summers, Jr.,
swore in our new Board at
the banquet.
Today, the Michigan Chapter
continues to take on tasks
that enhance and promote
ASSE and its motto,
Prevention Rather Than
Cure. We are very proud of
our members who continue
in this effort, as well as our
chapter for promoting such
involvement. Some of the
individuals who are involved
in ASSEs national committees are John Nussbaum,
IPP, FASSE, Barry Pines,
Paul Baker, Ron George,
Cindy Zatto and Paul
Bladdick, FASSE, to name
a few. As our chapter looks
into the future, we will continue to promote education and
awareness for our plumbing professionals. In Michigan, we
are surrounded by Great Lakes and it is my opinion that our
chapter is surrounded by great people.

January - March 2012

National Inspection Testing and

Certification Corporation (NITC) is
a third-party provider of certification
services in the plumbing, piping and
HVAC fields. We have certified over
89,000 people in the United States,
Canada and Puerto Rico since 1992.
NITC administrates test development and
maintenance of certifications. Our quality
management system is ISO 9001:2008
registered. NITC offers many journeyand mastery-level certifications, as
well as Medical Gas, IAPMO Voluntary
Plumbing and Mechanical Inspector, and
other city, county and state government
certifications.
Five NITC certifications are ANSI
Accredited Certificate #0645: Fire
Sprinklerfitter Mastery, HVAC Mastery,
Medical Gas Installer 6010, Medical
Gas Instructor 6050 and Medical Gas
Verifier 6030.
The advantage of using NITC as your
third-party certifier is that NITC provides
a fair, valid and reliable examination that
is legally defensible. Another important
factor when considering a third-party
certifier is that NITC provides a legal and
ethical firewall separating training and

January - March 2012

certification. Since testing is our only

business, we have no temptation to alter
results to favor any particular curriculum
or method. We ensure security by using
only approved proctors and we carefully
safeguard results and other records.
In compliance with federal and state
regulations, NITC is non-discriminatory in
its acceptance, processing and issuance
of certifications. We do not discriminate
against or favor any individual because
of membership, non-membership or
affiliation with any group, union or other
organization. Our only requirement is
that the applicant meets specified
requirements.
Using industry subject matter experts
from varied geographical locations
ensures that NITC examinations are
developed to the highest industry
standards. Ensuring that the exams
and certifications you use will position
you as a leader in the industry, propelling
you to the next level.
A large portion of NITCs business is
generated by the Medical Gas System
Personnel certification. When it comes
to the qualifications and regulations of
the workforce that is designing, installing,
altering or maintaining a medical gas and
vacuum system for health care facilities,
no two documents spell it out better than
the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series 6000,
Professional Qualifications Standard for
Medical Gas Systems Personnel, and
the NFPA 99, Standard for Health Care
Facilities. The foundations for NITCs
medical gas and vacuum system
examinations are generated through
pertinent information collect from the
two most respected standards in the
industry. By offering certification for
individuals involved in the installation,
inspection, instruction or verification of
medical gas systems, end users and

patients alike, are assured that those

credentialed service providers and their
workforce have demonstrated that they
truly have an understanding of the
knowledge, skill level and ability to
execute the procedures required to
ensure that the entire system will
sustain life throughout the life of the
system.
NITC will be proud to be an exhibitor
for the third year at the 2012 ASSE
Annual Meeting, November 13-17, at the
Holiday Inn Philadelphia in Philadelphia,
PA. Our certification requirements can
be viewed on our website at:
www.nationalitc.com.
We look forward to working with any
individual, private firm, organization or
governmental entity. Please feel free to
contact us toll free at (877) 457-6482.

NITC Contact Information:

Telephone: (877) 457-6482
Fax: (262) 251-5817
Web: http://www.nationalitc.com

Plumbing Standards

25

Best
Essays
of the 2011
Scholarship
competition

BACKFLOW INDUSTRY
In each issue of Plumbing Standards Magazine,
we are publishing the top essays submitted
by the 2011 scholarship applicants to recognize
their efforts and to show the quality of their essays.

This essay is the work of Laura Wiebking, daughter-in-law

of Russell Wiebking, a member-at-large from Westminster,
Maryland.

Plumbing and Nursing: A Very Strange Combination

by Laura Wiebking, Carroll Community College

I will expose my initial ignorance. When telling a friend that I

was applying for a scholarship with the American Society of
Sanitary Engineering, she asked what the organization was and
how it was related to nursing. Honestly, I did not know. Now, as I
sit down to write, I am more familiar with ASSE and I am amazed
at how the same basic principles of organization and forethought
can be applied to both fields with a successful outcome.
ASSE was founded in 1906 to nationalize standards for
plumbing codes. They did this in an attempt to educate the
public and plumbing industry on the importance of safe and
correct plumbing installation, and came up with the slogan
Prevention Rather than Cure. ASSE has worked in the past
to diminish the spread of Polio, a waterborne disease. The
Society helped to improve plumbing practices by reducing
cross-connections, which led to backsiphonage, which led to
the spread of this debilitating disease. ASSE has also been a
part of the investigation of Legionnaires disease. This is an
organization that continues to write product and professional
standards for all types of plumbing engineering to help improve
the health and well-being of the general public. ASSE
investigates the causes of a problem, instead of just
treating the problem with a quick fix.

family and meeting their emotional needs. Stress is the

biggest factor in a home where there is a special needs child.
It is important for me to be sensitive to the dynamic of the household. Mom and Dad need to be healthy, get enough sleep, be
working to support the family and working in harmony together.
If any of this is out of sync, the child I am caring for will see the
effects. If a parent is out of work, there may be no money to
pay for medicine. Their child with a seizure disorder will have
increased neurological issues and possibly suffer permanent
brain damage. It is my job to always be assessing my patient
and their family for possible illness, address any issues that
may affect my patient, and help my patient and their families
prevent illness, stress and household pressures. I help the
parents maintain their optimum level of health, keep their child
out of the hospital and promote stability to families. I feel that
Prevention Rather than Cure is the best way to describe my
job and is also the key to being a good nurse.

Part of this organization is Russell Wiebking, my father-In-law.

He has been a certified ASSE Instructor in the state of Maryland
for 9 years and a proud ASSE member for the past 5 years. He
enjoys teaching and passing along the wisdom and knowledge
he has gained in his 50 years as a plumber.

Now, I have the desire to be a better nurse. As I observed my

oldest daughters enthusiasm for classes when she was in her
first year of college, I began to have the desire to go back to
school. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse (RN). I work
full time, so I am very busy with my family of four and my school
work. There are three of us who are currently enrolled in college
and we are striving to pay for our education as we go. We do
not want any college debt for our family. I know in this world of
loans and credit cards it would be easy to sign off on four years
of education, but we have chosen to set the example of debt-free
living for our girls.

In 1996, I graduated from the Johnston School of Practical

Nursing. I have been a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for
almost 15 years and work for Comprehensive Nursing Services.
I work with pediatric patients who are chronically ill. There are
many aspects of home health care; not only caring for the patient
and their physical care, but also interacting with the patients

I thank you for the time and consideration you have put into
reading through this lengthy application. Also, thank you for the
opportunity to learn about ASSE and, most importantly, to learn
more about my father-in-law. This experience has helped me
understand his profession and to see more clearly his passion
for his job.

26

Plumbing Standards

January - March 2012

Whose job is it?

Paul R. Bladdick, M.P., FASSE
LPB Co., Inc.

The debate goes on: who has the right

to install, test and/or repair a backflow
prevention assembly? Everyone you talk
to has an opinion about this controversy,
but nobody can give an answer that will
satisfy everyone.

end, all must agree that it is a give and

take situation where everyone wins a
little and may lose a little. The final result
is a document that provides for the most
safety and protection of the public that
can be achieved.

If you are a licensed plumber, you most

likely believe that since the backflow
assembly is always located in the potable
water system, they should, and must, be
installed, tested or repaired by a licensed
plumber. Now, if you are a licensed fire
protection fitter, you probably believe
that a sprinkler fitter should be the only
person who should be allowed to touch
anything on the fire suppression system,
and that is justifiable. Question: where
does the potable water system stop and
the fire protection system begin? Then,
of course, if you are a licensed irrigation
contractor, you believe that you should
be able to install and work on the valves.
Same question! Possibly the only thing
that all agree on is that one should have
a license of some sort to work on the
backflow prevention system. Oh, Im
sorry, I forgot the building owner, who
just wants it cheap or not installed at all.

Have we created a conundrum (a puzzle

with no answer)? It is hard to argue that
we have not. The local Authority Having
Jurisdiction (AHJ) has the right to
interpret their code and local laws as they
see fit. The guiding principle should, and
must, always be to protect our precious
water supply. As a licensed plumber, I
can give you a litany of reasons why I
believe only a properly trained and
licensed plumber should be allowed to
install, test or repair. Undoubtedly, a
licensed fire protection person will give
a very convincing argument for their
people doing the work, as I am sure will
the irrigation contractor. Perhaps, in my
mind, only the building owner can give
no legitimate reason, as cost should
never override safety.

All of the model codes reference ASSE/

ANSI Series 5000, Cross-Connection
Control Professional Qualifications
Standard, which does not support or
mandate who may install, test or repair;
only that they prove experience and pass
a required course. We must all
understand that the ASSI/ANSI Series
5000 is a consensus standard. I was part
of the committee that wrote the Series
5000, but that does not mean that I
agreed with every word in the standard.
To be consensus means that members
must be balanced from all concerned
parties involved. The members from each
discipline argue for their belief, but in the

January - March 2012

individual will do, or has done, the work

in accordance with all local codes and
requirements.
Now we have come full circle. We
start with training and end with training.
So now we know there is a common
denominator for the entire industry:
training. All who participate in the
process must be properly trained.
In conclusion, let me say that even if we
cannot completely agree on who does
the work, I believe we can all agree
that whoever it may be, if they are
properly trained and the work is properly
permitted and inspected, public safety
will be ensured.
Now you can all go and chew on this
conundrum. Let me know if you can
solve it. Thank you.

This months theme lends very much

to why this article is written. Plumbing
and mechanical systems are so entwined
that in nearly all phases, we have
overlapping, or nearly overlapping,
jurisdiction. We have water, gas and
air in these systems, and depending
on what they are designed and used
for, who will be the one to install them.
There is, however, one very important
item that all must comply with: a permit
is required to do the work. A permit, in
and of itself, is just a piece of paper that
a contractor pays for. It is only when the
properly trained and dedicated inspector
becomes involved that good things begin
to happen. The plan review and required
inspections are to assure the end user
that a properly trained and licensed

Plumbing Standards

27

ASSE UPDATES

Factory Audits UPDATE

The following passed their 2011 audits:
Bradley Corporation
Ho Sing Enterprises
Hunter Industries, Inc.
Hydro Systems
In-Sink-Erator
Moen, Inc.
Oatey Company
Tsangkuo Industrial Co., Ltd.
Wilkins / A Division of Zurn

ASSE Product Listings Update

Bradley Corporation

ASSE Standard #1017-2009, Performance Requirements

for Temperature Actuated Mixing Valves for Hot Water
Distribution Systems
S59-4016 Series Includes: S59-4016D (1/2 NPT/Sweat),
S59-4016N (3/4 NPT), S59-4016S (3/4 Sweat), S59-4016X
(1/2 PEX), S59-4016Y (3/4 PEX)
ASSE Standard #1069-2005, Performance Requirements for
Automatic Temperature Control Mixing Valves
S59-4016 Series Includes: S59-4016D (1/2 NPT/Sweat),
S59-4016N (3/4 NPT), S59-4016S (3/4 Sweat), S59-4016X
(1/2 PEX), S59-4016Y (3/4 PEX)
ASSE Standard #1070-2004, Performance Requirements for
Water Temperature Limiting Devices
S59-4016 Series Includes: S59-4016D (1/2 NPT/Sweat),
S59-4016N (3/4 NPT), S59-4016S (3/4 Sweat), S59-4016X
(1/2 PEX), S59-4016Y (3/4 PEX)

WaterSaver Faucet

ASSE Standard #1001-2008, Performance Requirements for

Atmospheric Type Vacuum Breakers
Models: L100, L101,L102, L112, L115, L115HAM & VR100
L102 Includes: L102WS, L102WSA, L102ADJ, L102ADJ-WS,
L102ADJ-WSA, VR102WSA
L112 Includes: L112WS, L112WSA, L112ADJ, L112ADJ-WS,
L112ADJ-WSA, VR112, VR112WS
ASSE Standard #1024-2004, Performance Requirements for
Dual Check Backflow Preventers
Models: LM108 & LM108PM-WSA
L102 Includes: L108PM, L108PM-WS, L108PM-ADJ,
L108PM-ADJ-WS, L108-ADJ-WSA, VR108PM, VR108PM-WS,
VR108PM-WSA

Watts Regulator Co.

ASSE Standard #1018-2001, Performance Requirements for

Trap Seal Primer Valves- Potable Water Supplied
TP300S & LFTP300S Size:
TP300T & LFTP300T Size:

28

Plumbing Standards

Wilkins / A Division of Zurn

ASSE Standard #1013-2009, Performance Requirements for

Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventers and Reduced
Pressure Principle Fire Protection Backflow Preventers
375AST Sizes: 10, 8 Horizontal w/ Wilkins 48 gate
valves, Wilkins 49 butterfly valves, Victaulic 702, Clow
2638/39/40
ASSE Standard #1015-2009, Performance Requirements for
Double Check Backflow Prevention Assemblies and Double
Check Fire Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies
350AST Sizes: 10, 8 Horizontal - Vertical Up w/ Wilkins
48 gate valves, Wilkins 49 butterfly valves, Victaulic 702, Clow
model 2638/39/40
ASSE Standard #1047-2009, Performance Requirements for
Reduced Pressure Detector Fire Protection Backflow Prevention
Assemblies
375ASTDA Sizes: 10, 8 Horizontal w/ Wilkins model 48
gate valve, Wilkins model 49 butterfly valve, Victaulic model
702 and Clow model 2638/39/40
ASSE Standard #1048-2009, Performance Requirements for
Double Check Detector Fire Protection Backflow Prevention
Assemblies
350ASTDA Sizes: 10, 8 Horizontal - Vertical Up w/
Wilkins 48 gate valves, Wilkins 49 butterfly valves, Victaulic
702, Clow model 2638/39/40 & Bypass of Wiklins model 850

ASSE Draft Standard #1060-2006 Performance

Requirements for Outdoor Enclosures for Fluid Conveying
Components. Scheduling next working group meeting.
ASSE Draft Standard #1066-1997 Performance
Requirements for Individual Pressure Balancing In-Line Valves
for Individual Fixture Fittings. Compiling 2007 comments and
revising Draft F.
ASSE Draft Standard #1071-2008 Performance
Requirements for Temperature Actuated Mixing Valves for
Plumbed Emergency Equipment. Compiling working group
ballot comments.
ASSE Draft Standard #1079-2005 Performance
Requirements for Dielectric Pipe Unions. Product Standards
Committee Chairman is reviewing ballot comments.
Multiple working groups are currently forming:
Please visit http://asse-plumbing.org/standards/stdscom_wg.html
for a complete list of forming working groups.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS STANDARDS

Update
ASSE Standard Series 6000 - Draft Professional

Qualifications Standard for Medical Gas Systems Personnel.

The first working group meeting was held March 7 & 8 in
Westlake, OH.

ASSE Standard Series 7000 - Draft Professional

Product STANDARDS Update

ASSE Draft Standard #1010-2004 Performance

Requirements for Water Hammer Arresters. Task group is

currently drafting changes.

ASSE Draft Standard #1011-2004 Performance

Requirements for Hose Connection Vacuum Breakers. Product
Standards Committee Chairman is reviewing ballot comments.
ASSE Draft Standard #1022-2003 Performance

Requirements for Backflow Preventer for Beverage Dispensing

Equipment. Balloting the working group.

ASSE Draft Standard #1044-2001 Performance

Requirements for Trap Seal Primer Devices - Drainage Types

and Electronic Design Types. Balloting the Product Standards
Committee.

ASSE Draft Standard #1056-2001 Performance

Requirements for Spill Resistant Vacuum Breaker. Creating
Draft B from working group comments.
ASSE Draft Standard #1057-2001 Performance

Requirements for Freeze Resistant Sanitary Yard Hydrant with

Backflow Protection. Balloting the Product Standards Committee.

January - March 2012

Qualifications Standard for Residential Fire Protection Systems

Installers and Inspectors. The draft was balloted to the PQ
Standards Committee. The ballot failed and the comments were
compiled. The draft will be sent back to the working group to
address the issues.

ASSE Draft Standard Series 9000 Firestop Systems and

Smoke-Limiting Materials Professional Qualifications Standard.

The working group will meet again in March. A poll is currently
being taken to determine the date.

ASSE Draft Standard Series 11000 High Purity Water

Professional Qualifications Standard. Comments from the
working group ballot are being addressed.

ASSE Draft Standard Series 12000 Professional

Qualifications Standard for the Health and Safety of Plumbers

and Pipetrade Professionals. The working group members are
working on specific tasks as assigned.

ASSE Draft Standard Series 13000 Professional

Qualifications Standard for Service Plumbing. The first working

group meeting is scheduled for April 19, 2012 in Cleveland, OH.

January - March 2012

ASSE Draft Standard Series 15000 Professional

Qualifications Standard for the Inspection, Testing and

Maintenance of Water Based Fire Protection Systems.
Comments from the working group ballot are being addressed.

ASSE Draft Standard Series 16000 Plumbing Inspector

Professional Qualifications Standard. Additional changes were

made to the Standard and approved by the working group in
February, 2012. The PQ Standards Committee ballot is due on
3/15/2012.

ASSE Draft Standard Series 17000 Mechanical Inspector

Professional Qualifications Standard. The draft was approved by

the working group in February, 2012 and will be sent to the PQ
Standards Committee in March.

ASSE NEWS
2012 ASSE Scholarship Program
The ASSE Scholarship Program is all set to kick-off the 2012 year.
The Scholarship Board met and has made a few changes for this
year. The ASSE Scholarship Program is open to all members, and
relatives of members, who have been members for at least one
year. The applicant must be a full-time student in an undergraduate
degree program at a college or university. To be considered a
full-time student, you must maintain a minimum of 10 credit-hours
per semester.
Application packets will be available after March 15, 2012 at the
ASSE International Office.
ALL REQUESTS MUST BE MADE IN WRITING
E-Mail (preferred) or Letter Mail
Send all requests to:
ASSE International Office
c/o Scholarship Program Chair
901 Canterbury Road, Suite A
Westlake, OH 44145-1480
rjprospal@asse-plumbing.org
216-470-4653
Your request must list the following information: your full name, the
name and relationship to a member of ASSE, your e-mail address,
your phone number and your mailing address for any correspondence that must be mailed.
When completing your application, please follow the instructions
and include all of the necessary information. If you have any
questions, please contact the Chairperson by e-mail or phone.

Plumbing Standards

29

ASSE NEWS (cont.)

The cut-off date for submitting completed applications is August

31, 2012.
Raffle ticket sales and donations are the primary sources of
income for this wonderful program. Tickets are available at the
ASSE International Office, or they can be purchased with your
membership renewal.

INDUSTRY BUZZ
IAPMO BPI and LRWA Announce Schedule of Joint
Backflow Certification Classes
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
Backflow Prevention Institute (IAPMO BPI) and the Louisiana
Rural Water Association (LRWA) have formed a partnership to
conduct backflow training certification classes throughout the state
of Louisiana.
IAPMO BPI is excited about expanding its certification training into
Louisiana and in working with an established industry respected
organization like the LRWA, said Sean Cleary, IAPMO BPI
Director of Training and Education.
LRWA is equally excited to partner with IAPMO BPI and expand
the training programs that LRWA offers across the state of
Louisiana, said Rusty Reeves, LRWA Deputy Director.
IAPMO BPI, a leader in crossconnection training both in the
United States and internationally, has been a provider of the
American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) certification
program for many years. LRWA has been a leader in providing
operator training and technical assistance to water and wastewater
systems across the state of Louisiana since 1978.
IAPMO BPI and LRWA will be conducting the following Backflow
Tester Certification Classes around Louisiana:
Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester 40-Hour Course and Exam
March 26-30, 2012 New Orleans Area
Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester 40-Hour Course and Exam
May 14-18, 2012 Shreveport Area
Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester 40-Hour Course and Exam
Sept. 17-21, 2012 Kinder, LA
Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester 40-Hour Course and Exam
Dec. 3-7, 2012 Monroe Area
Please contact IAPMO BPI for exact locations. IAPMO BPI
can also schedule private classes on location for any group
or company throughout the state of Louisiana. For additional
information, direct your Web browser to:

30

Plumbing Standards

ASSE NEWS (cont.)

http://www.iapmodwbp.org/Pages/TrainingandCertification.aspx
or call (877) 427-6601.

Zurn Industries Celebrates World Plumbing Day

Announces early compliance with impending federal
low-lead standards
On March 11, as members of plumbing organizations across the
world joined together to recognize World Plumbing Day and to
promote the vital role the plumbing industry plays in protecting
public health and safety, Zurn Industries, LCC announced that its
entire line of products will be available lead-free by the close of
2012.
Inspired by their relationship with NSF International (NSF) and their
dedication to offer the highest-quality and safest products available,
Zurn products will comply with NSF low-lead Standard 61: Drinking
Water System Components Health Effects, Annex G requirements
more than a year in advance of the deadline mandated by the
Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act.
Zurn focused resources early to create product solutions and
we are pleased to announce we will be in compliance ahead of
schedule, says David Scelsi, Director of Product Management &
Engineering, Zurn Commercial Brass Operation.
The Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act (S. 3874) requires
that any valve, fitting or fixture coming in contact with potable water
must meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61-G requirements, having
weighted average of less than 0.25 percent lead content. The law
will take nationwide effect on January 4, 2014, but states like
California and Vermont have already begun enforcing it. Other
states may soon follow. With their early compliance, Zurn becomes
the leader in lead-free applications and global awareness of
lead-related health issues.
Weve been working toward this goal since the Act was
passed into law, and World Plumbing Day presents the perfect
opportunity to celebrate this commitment, says Rick Fields, Senior
Director of Marketing and Product Development, Zurn Wilkins.
By making the change early, we hope to set an example and
encourage fellow manufacturers, engineers, contractors, building
owners and water purveyors to do the same in the interest of a
healthier tomorrow.
Children and senior citizens are particularly at risk when exposed
to lead in drinking water. Lead contamination can lead to damage
in the brain and nervous system, behavioral and learning problems,
slowed growth, reproductive problems, high blood pressure and
more. Through studies conducted by the Center for Disease
Control and the PEW Center on the States, Congress discovered
that by reducing lead in the nations drinking water systems, the
U.S. could save an estimated $10.8 - $53.1 million in health care
costs annually.

January - March 2012

Zurn Industries commitment to comply with NSF Annex Gs lead

content requirements in advance of the 2012 deadline reinforces
to their customers that protecting public health is a #1 priority, said
Nasrin Kashefi, General Manager of NSF Internationals Plumbing
Programs. Products that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61-G
requirements appear on NSF Internationals website (http://www.
nsf.org/Certified/PwsComponents) and bear the NSF Annex G
Mark.
Zurn Industries has a standing reputation of producing products
that are in full compliance with federal and state low-lead standards.
In September 2009, Zurn became the first manufacturer in the
industry to provide lead-free, fully approved backflow prevention
assemblies and parts to the market.
Established by the World Plumbing Council (WPC), World
Plumbing Day is dedicated to helping the general public better
understand and appreciate the extent to which the plumbing
industrys compliance with evolving state and federal regulations
can help to improve the quality of potable water and lives of those
who drink it. Zurn is proud to carry out this message through this
announcement. For additional information on World Plumbing Day,
visit http://www.worldplumbingday.org.
For additional information on Zurns lead-free and low-lead products
and certifications, or to learn more about the steps taken to comply
with the impending law, contact Rachael at Rachael.Wiley-Steffen@
zurn.com, Director of Brand Marketing. To learn more about NSF,
visit http://www.nsf.org, or contact Ellen Van Buren at vanburen@
nsf.org.

Anti-Sprinkler Legislation Filed in 2012

State legislatures are in session and opponents of home fire
sprinklers have wasted no time in convincing some lawmakers to
introduce bills in several states that would prohibit jurisdictions from
including one- and two-family dwelling fire sprinkler requirements
in the adopted codes.
Heres how you can help! One of the goals of NFPAs Fire Sprinkler
Initiative is to provide you with the advocacy tools (http://www.
firesprinklerinitiative.org/Take-Action/Advocate.aspx) you need to
get local governments to mandate fire sprinklers in all new one- and
two-family homes. Please contact one of NFPAs Regional Sprinkler
Specialists to let us know how we can help you in your state.
Colorado
SB12-081: Prohibits local jurisdictions from requiring installation
of automatic fire sprinklers in single family dwellings.
Sponsor: Kevin Grantham, District 2
Status: Defeated in committee.
Hawaii
SB2397: Prohibits local jurisdictions from requiring installation or
retrofitting of automatic fire sprinklers in new or existing one- or
two family dwelling units used only for residential purposes.

January - March 2012

Sponsor: Will Espero, 20th Senate District

Status: Referred to Public Safety, Government Operations,
Military Affairs (PGM) and to Water Land and Housing (WLH)
Committees. PGM Committee passed with amendments.
Referred amended version to WLH for consideration.
HB1795: Prohibits local jurisdictions from requiring installation or
retrofitting of automatic fire sprinklers in new or existing one- or
two family dwelling units used only for residential purposes.
Sponsor: Rida Cabanilla, House District 42
Status: Referred to Housing (HSG), Public Safety and Military
Affairs (PBM) and Judiciary (JUD) Committees.
Illinois
HB5847: Prohibits local jurisdictions from requiring installation of
automatic fire sprinklers in single family dwellings. Requires
mandatory option.
Sponsor: Michael Unis, 91st District
Status: Referred to Rules Committee.
Tennessee
HB2639: Prohibits sprinkler requirements in local building codes
in one-family and two-family dwellings.
Sponsor: Eric Watson
Status: Referred to Commerce Subcommittee. Hearing date set
for 2/22/2012..
SB2492: Prohibits sprinkler requirements in local building codes
in one-family and two-family dwellings.
Sponsor: Jim Tracy
Status: Referred to Commerce, Labor and Agriculture
Committee.
Learn about the efforts of The Tennessee Fire Sprinkler Coalition
(http://www.firesprinklerinitiative.org/Legislation/State-initiatives/
Tennessee.aspx), formed to bring the fire service and other
stakeholders together for the purpose of keeping the home fire
sprinkler requirement in the Tennessee code.

IAPMO Releases 2012 Uniform Codes

The 2012 editions of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and
Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), American National Standards
published continuously since 1928 and 1967, respectively, by the
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
(IAPMO), were released, completing a three-year consensus
development cycle accredited by the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI).
Significant changes to the UPC include:
Revised provisions for the minimum number of plumbing fixtures
required per occupancy.
Revised application, water consumption, backflow and material
requirements for plumbing fixtures.

Plumbing Standards

31

INDUSTRY BUZZ (cont.)

New alternate water source requirements that include provisions

for: gray water systems, reclaimed (recycled) water systems,
potable and nonpotable rainwater catchment systems, and on-site
treated water systems.
New sustainable practice requirements that apply to water
consumption and water heating.
Revised fuel gas purging requirements.
Revised vacuum drainage system requirements.
Revised and updated joint and connection requirements based
on applicable standards for water supply and drainage piping
based on pipe material.
Significant changes to the UMC include:
New requirements for piping, tubing, balancing, louvers, protection
of piping, and ductwork.
New provisions for evaporative cooling systems.
Updates were made to Chapter 4 (Ventilation).
Refrigeration port protection requirements.
Revised fuel gas purging requirements.
New requirements for piping, tubing and fittings used in hydronic
systems.
New Appendix A (Residential Plan Examiner Review Form For
HVAC System Design).
New Appendix E (Sustainable Practices). Sustainable practice
requirements that apply to heating, ventilation and air-conditioning
systems and equipment.
New Appendix F (Examples of Venting System Sizing).
New Appendix G (Example for the Calculation of Outdoor Air
Rate).
The Uniform Codes are developed using the ANSI consensus
development procedures. This process brings together volunteers
representing a variety of viewpoints and interests to achieve
consensus on plumbing and mechanical practices.
The codes are designed to provide consumers with safe and
sanitary plumbing and mechanical systems while, at the same time,
allowing latitude for innovation and new technologies. The public
at large is encouraged and invited to participate in IAPMOs open
consensus code development process. A code development
timeline and other relevant information are available at IAPMOs
Website, www.iapmo.org.
For more information on the UPC and/or the ANSI consensus
process, please contact Matt Sigler at (909) 230-5535 or matt.
sigler@iapmo.org. For the UMC, please contact Hugo Aguilar at
(909) 472-4111 or hugo.aguilar@iapmo.org.

32

Plumbing Standards

INDUSTRY BUZZ (cont.)

Sustainability in buildings advances resiliency: USGBC,

U of M
The U.S. Green Building Council and the University of Michigans
Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning released a
landmark report Feb. 29 that describes how green buildings advance
resiliency in disasters. Green Building and Climate Resilience:
Understanding Impacts and Preparing for Changing Conditions
describes potential adaptive strategies available to green building
practitioners. These strategies add an important new dimension to
the green building industrys long-standing focus on reducing
greenhouse gases through energy efficiency and renewable/
low-carbon energy supplies.
Every building is designed for a specific range of conditions, such
as peak temperature, storm surge and average precipitation, said
Dr. Chris Pyke, USBGCs vice president of research. Climate
change has the potential to undermine some of these assumptions
and potentially increase risks to people and property. Fortunately,
there are practical steps we can take to understand and prepare
for the consequences of changing environmental conditions and
reduce potential impacts. This can help green buildings meet and
exceed expectations for comfort and performance long into the
future.
The report was released during the National Leadership Speaker
Series on Resiliency and National Security in the 21st
Century, hosted by USGBC and ICLEI-Local Governments for
Sustainability USA.
Craig Fugate, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency, spoke at the National Press Club as part of the event
and emphasized the importance of green buildings in disaster
preparedness. He urged leaders from major corporations,
government, academia, the scientific community and civil society
to help advance green building as a complementary strategy to
address pre- and post-emergency management situations,
ultimately forging more resilient communities.
In the wake of last years disaster activity, with tornadoes across
the southwest, flooding from Hurricane Irene and even an earthquake on the East Coast, it is important that we develop and enforce
safe and sustainable building codes to make our communities more
resilient, and to protect lives and property in times of disaster,
Fugate said. Green building practices, resiliency of our
communities and emergency management priorities are not
mutually exclusive.
The report, which identifies the deep synergies between green
building and resiliency, advances several firsts in the field, such as:
Examining the implications of climate change for green building
and identifies opportunities for resilience through the design,
construction, and operation of buildings and communities.
Analyzing how individual LEED credits support regional adaptation
needs, such as enhanced water conversation in arid climates and
water-sensitive regions.

January - March 2012

Demonstrating how consideration of climate resilience in buildings

can increase the likelihood of achieving performance goals
throughout the lifetime of a project.
The National Leadership Speaker Series on Resiliency and
National Security in the 21st Century serves as a forum for
promoting a strategic vision for resiliency and features keynote
speakers who are playing a leadership role in creating a safer,
stronger and more sustainable future. This installment was
generously supported by Ingersoll Rand.

NSF Expands Scope of Military Microbiological Water

Purification Device Protocol
NSF International, a global public health organization that develops
American National Standards for the water, food and consumer
products industries, has expanded the scope of the protocol that
addresses military water purification devices (NSF Protocol P248
Military Operations Microbiological Water Purifiers). NSF developed
the protocol with the U.S. Army Public Health Command (US APHC).
The NSF protocol helps protect the health of service members that
use water purification devices and initially covered small individual
water purifiers (IWPs). The expanded scope now includes individual water purifiers and additional systems known as small unit
(e.g. squad or platoon size) water purifiers collectively known as
SWP (small water purifiers), which can be used on planned missions up to seven days in duration or longer under certain situations.
In addition to military use, the water purification devices covered
under the protocol can be used by disaster/emergency response
teams, backpackers and others who do not have ready access to
a treated water supply.
NSF International will conduct a seminar on the military water purification devices protocol at the WQA Aquatech trade show at
4:00pm PST on Tuesday, March 6th in Room N206. NSF International experts will discuss background, requirements and the expanded scope of the protocol with representatives from the U.S.
Army Public Health Command and the U.S. Army Natick Soldier
Research Development and Engineering Center in attendance.
Based on the EPA Guide Standard and Protocols for Testing Microbiological Purifiers, NSF Protocol P248 outlines the requirements
for removing the type of microbiological contaminants from drinking
water likely to be encountered during military operations. Manufacturers whose products are tested and comply with the performance
(Appendix B) criteria of NSF Protocol P248 receive a Government
Review Agency P248 Letter of Compliance, which can be provided
to those who purchase these devices for the military and other
agencies.
Products that also successfully complete material safety, structural integrity, performance and literature and labeling evaluation
earn certification to NSF P248, which allows for the use of the NSF
Mark on the product and promotional materials in addition to the

January - March 2012

Government Review Agency P248 Letter of Compliance.

The goal of the NSF protocol for microbiological water purifiers is
to ensure that military personnel, and others, have access to safe
drinking water from any freshwater source that may be available
to them when deployed or in the field, said Nikki Beetsch, Group
Lead for NSF Internationals Drinking Water Division. For the past
40 years, NSF International has led the development of the American National Standards for products that come into contact with
drinking water.
NSF International is the logical organization to collaborate on the
development of this protocol with the U.S. Army, said Beetsch.
We have the expertise in water treatment systems required to
develop the test protocols and the facility, equipment and people
to implement the protocol by conducting the testing.
For more information about NSF Protocol P248 Military Operations
Microbiological Water Purifiers visit the NSF website or contact
military@nsf.org or 734-913-5718. For more information on NSF
Internationals Drinking Water Testing and Certification Programs
or protocol development, contact Ellen Van Buren at 734-827-3822
or vanburen@nsf.org.

WPC Past Chairman Awarded for Services to Plumbing

Robert Burgon, Immediate Past Chairman of the World Plumbing
Council, has been awarded Honorary Fellowship of the UKs
Society of Public Health Engineers (SoPHE). This award, which
is the highest given by the Society, is in recognition of Roberts
contribution to the plumbing industry for more than 30 years. The
presentation, by SoPHE Chairman Chris Northey, took place at the
SoPHE Dinner in London, England on November 3, 2011.

Share Your Knowledge at the 2012 ASPE Convention

If you are looking to share your knowledge and design experience
with others in the plumbing industry who are eager to learn, then
you need to contact ASPE to be considered for the 2012
Convention and EPE taking place in Charlotte, NC from October
25th October 31st. ASPE is currently taking submissions from
individuals who are interested in presenting technical sessions.
Please send in your contact information at http://aspe.org/
CallForPapers (including your mailing address, email address and
phone number), a brief professional biography about yourself or
the person who would present and a description of the presentation
topic which would be covered and what would be contained in the
presentation. Keep in mind the following:
- Each session will be a minimum of 1.5 hours in length so make
sure the presentations are such that they cover a topic in
detail.

Plumbing Standards

33

INDUSTRY BUZZ (cont.)

These presentations need to remain non-proprietary in nature

as the Convention Education Sessions are about learning
not selling.
The Convention and Education Committee will review all submissions and select the topics they feel are appropriate for the
Convention.

Should you have any questions, please contact ASPE Education

at (847) 296-0002 x229 or aspeeducation@aspe.org. If you wish
to include additional attachments for consideration please do so
by email.

Progress on Drinking Water and Sanitation 2012 Update:

Published by Unicef and the World Health Organization
The world has met the Millennium Development Goal (MDG)
target of halving the proportion of people without sustainable
access to safe drinking water, well in advance of the MDG 2015
deadline, according to a report issued today by UNICEF and WHO.
Between 1990 and 2010, over two billion people gained access
to improved drinking water sources, such as piped supplies and
protected wells.

PMI Welcomes First Certifier Allied Member

The report, Progress on Drinking Water and Sanitation 2012, by the

WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and
Sanitation, says at the end of 2010 89% of the worlds population,
or 6.1 billion people, used improved drinking water sources. This is
one per cent more than the 88% MDG target. The report estimates
that by 2015 92% of the global population will have access to improved
drinking water.

Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) is pleased to announce

that the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical
Officials (IAPMO) has joined PMI as a charter Certifier Allied
Member.

For children this is especially good news, said UNICEF Executive

Director Anthony Lake. Every day more than 3 000 children die from
diarrhoeal diseases. Achieving this goal will go a long way to saving
childrens lives.

Please complete the form below before the April 1, 2012 deadline.

PMI has recently opened its membership to accredited certifier

organizations who are qualified to certify products to plumbing
codes and consensus standards and also to supplier companies
who provide raw materials and sublet processing, e.g., brass
suppliers, steel suppliers or plating services to the plumbing
industry. PMI recognizes the important role certifiers and suppliers
play in the plumbing manufacturing industry and believe the Allied
Member category is the ideal way to include these organizations
in PMIs mission to be the voice of the industry.
Allied Members receive a number of the benefits of PMI membership, including access to PMI publications, attendance at PMIs
semi-annual meetings, invitations to receptions, dinners and other
social events held in conjunction with the PMI semi-annual
conferences and more, all at a special Allied member rate.
IAPMO plays a major role in our industry, said PMI Executive
Director Barbara C. Higgens. Through our Memorandum of Understanding and now with this new relationship, we are continuing
to explore ways to work more closely together. We are pleased and
proud to welcome IAPMO as an affiliate member of PMI.
IAPMO has long recognized the important role PMI plays for not
only its members but as a representative organization for major
plumbing product manufacturers throughout the world. We are
delighted to be the first charter Certifier Allied Member and we are
committed to working closely with PMI and its many members to
further the objectives of our MoU, noted IAPMO Group CEO GP
Russ Chaney.
For more information about Allied Membership in PMI, please
contact Amy Berg-Ferguson, PMI Membership Development at
847-481-5500.

34

Plumbing Standards

YEARBOOK
2011

Hot Water
Where You Want It
Therm-Omega-Techs market leading temperature control valves
help you manage hot water in any building facility.

Circuit Solver TRV NEW!

Guarantees instant hot water to all parts of a building

Automatically balances domestic hot water systems

American Society of
Sanitary Engineering
Business Sessions

ATTN: ASSE MEMBERS

To receive your 2011 ASSE Yearbook,
you must submit a request
You may submit your request by:
filling out the Online 2011 ASSE Yearbook Request
Form at www.asse-plumbing.org
by telephone (440.835.3040)
or email (elaine@asse-plumbing.org)
*please have your Member Number (ID) ready
when submitting your request

January - March 2012

Circuit Solver TRV

Not Where You Dont

DTV Valve

Tempers drains to below allowable temperatures

Guaranteed code compliance
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ASSE Listd: PMG-1070
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primers, yet blocks the emission of noxious sewer gases from
backing-up into living or work areas. SureSeal is cost effective,
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