History of Plumbing Practice in the Philippines

The birth of the plumbing profession in the Philippines is traced back to

the 17th century. The WALLED CITY known as Intramuros was established
by the Spaniards as a model community. The Friar Engineers who built
the government buildings, residential and other structures. incorporated
European standards in their plumbing installations.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Filipino plumbers were assigned
the task of maintaining, repairing and/or remodelling plumbing systems
in all "pueblos" or towns including churches, convents and government
buildings.

The recognized plumbers then were called upon by the '‘ ilustrados " or
the elite group to act as consultants of plumber journeymen on matters
pertaining to plumbing installations in villas and mansions.

PLUMBING took a great leap at the turn of the 20th century with the
arrival of the American soldiers, engineers, Thomasite teachers, doctors
and evangelists. Health and hygiene became priority when epidemics
including cholera, leprosy. Schistosomiasis and other contagious diseases
engulfed the Philippines. Alarmed, Governor General Harrison issued a
letter of instruction on proper waste disposal in all municipalities.

Sometime in 1902, the PLUMBING TRADE was duly recognized by the

government. The City of Manila was the model community. Master
Plumber John F. Hass became the first Chief of the Division of Plumbing
Construction and Inspection.

Through the initiative of the Filipino Master Plumbers, a plumbing code

based on the Plumbing Code of the United States was incorporated into
the Building Code for the City of Manila.
In 1935, Francisco Geronimo, Mariano de Ocampo, lgmidio Suarez,
Eusebio Mina. Jose Rivera, Raymundo Reyes Sr., Roberto Feliciano,
Gregorio Lazaro, Raymundo Gumapac, John Jones, Trinitario Ortiz,
Valentin Casupanan, Catalino Casupanan. Crispin Francisco, Teodoro
Pastor, Cornelio Odvina and Jesus Tanghal Dera organized the
National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines (NAMPAP)
and had it registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Initiated by NAMPAP, the Department of Public Services of the City of

Manila was created by an Act of Congress. City Ordinance 2411,
otherwise known as "the Plumbing Code for the City of Manila" was
enacted in consultation with NAMPAP. The practice of plumbing was
eventually placed under the Department of Public Services, Manila.

The National Government, through the Bureau of Public Works, and

other cities and municipalities adopted the Plumbing Code of Manila.
NAMPAP spearheaded the enactment of a law regulating the practice
of master plumbing in the Philippines.
In 1954, the Third Congress of the Republic of the Philippines in its
Second Session, approved after the third reading House Bill No. 962.
This became Republic Act No. l378. On June 18, 1955, R.A. 1378,
otherwise known as the "PLUMBING LAW OF THE PHILIPINES" was
signed by President Ramon Magsaysay.
On January 28, 1959, the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines
prepared by the NAMPAP was promulgated and approved by
Malacanang. NAMPAP also assisted in the passage of the law creating
the National Waterworks and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA).
In 1966-1969, the Board of Examiners for Master Plumbers and the
NAMPAP prepared a Cubiculum for Plumbing Engineering that was
approved by the Department of Education and was first introduced at
the Feati University. ·

On November 28, 1967, the First Amendment to the National Plumbing

Code was approved, which effected the inclusion of "Asbestos Cement
Pipe" as an approved plumbing material.

Before Martial Law in 1972, Republic Act No. 6541 otherwise known as
the •Building Code of the Philippines" was passed with the "National
Plumbing Code of 1959" as referral code in full text.

In 1996, NAMPAP President JAIME M. CABASE spearheaded the

updating of the Revised National Plumbing Code. Finally, in October
1999, NAMPAP submitted the Draft Code to the Board of Master
Plumbers (BOMP) Chaired by Engr. FORTUNATO H. AMOSCO. After
careful review, the Professional Regulation Commission under
Chairman HERMOGENES POBRE adopted the Revised Plumbing Code of
1999 which His Excellency, President JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA
approved last December 21, 1999 pursuant to Section 4 of R.A. 1378
known as the Plumbing Law.

In order to continuously upgrade the technical expertise of Master

Plumbers and propagate the growth of the plumbing industry; NAMP
AP have caused the holding of regular National Convention as well as
Regional Conferences such as LUZON, VISAYAS and MINDANAO, as well
as the Midyear Forum where manufacturers, dealers and suppliers of
plumbing tools, equipment, materials and services are given the
opportunity to conduct product presentations for the benefit of the
plumbing practitioners.
Revised National Plumbing Code of the Philippines Basic Principles

The basic principles of the 1999 National Plumbing Code of the

Philippines is an update of the tenets established in the "Plumbing
Law of the Philippines" approved on 18 June 1955 as amended on 28
November 1959.

The basic goal of the 1999 National Plumbing Code of the Philippines
is to ensure the unqualified observance of the latest provisions of the
plumbing and environmental laws.

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 hazards of
backflow or back- siphonage.

Principle No. 2
Plumbing fixtures, devices and appurtenances shall be supplied
with water in sufficient volume and at pressure adequate to enable
them to function satisfactorily and without undue noise under all
normal conditions of use.

Principle No.3
Plumbing shall be designed and adjusted to use the minimum
quantity of water consistent with proper performance and cleaning.

Principle No. 4
Devices for heating and storing water shall be so designed and
installed as to prevent dangers from explosion through overheating.
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 where there is a public sewer, shall be connected to
the sewer system.

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. Further, a lavatory and bathtub or shower
shall be installed to meet the basic requirements of sanitation and
personal hygiene .

Principle No.7
Plumbing fixtures shall be made of smooth non - absorbent material,
free from concealed fouling surfaces and shall be located in ventilated
enclosures.

Principle No. 8
The drainage system shall be designed, constructed and maintained
to safeguard against fouling, deposit of solids, clogging and with
adequate cleanouts so arranged that the pipes may be readily cleaned.

Principle No. 9
All piping of plumbing systems shall be of durable NAMPAP APPROVED
materials, free form defective workmanship, designed and constructed
by Registered Master Plumbers to ensure satisfactory service.
Principle No. 10
Each fixture directly connected to the drainage system shall be equipped
with a water-sealed trap.

Principle No. 11
The drainage piping system shall be designed to provide adequate
circulation of air free from siphonage, aspiration or forcing of trap seals
under ordinary use.

Principle No. 12
Vent terminals shall extend to the outer air and installed to pre-empt
clogging and the return of foul air to the building.

Principle No. 13
Plumbing systems shall be subjected to such tests to effectively disclose
all leaks and defects in the workmanship.

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.

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, such as a septic tank.

Principle No. 18
Where a plumbing drainage system may be subject 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 serviceable condition by
Registered Master Plumbers. ·

Principle No. 20
All plumbing fixtures shall be installed properly spaced, to be
accessible for their intended use.

Principle No. 21
Plumbing shall be installed by Registered Master Plumbers with due
regard to the preservation of the strength of structural members and the
prevention of damage to walls and other surfaces through fixture usage.

Principle No. 22
Sewage or other waste from a plumbing system which may be
deleterious to surface or sub- surface waters shall not be discharged into
the ground or into any waterway, unless first rendered innocuous through
subjection to some acceptable form of treatment.
 Filipino Registered Master Plumbers’ Code of Ethics

A REGISTERED MASTFR PLUMBER SHALL MAINTAIN A PROFESSIONAL

BEARING CONSISTENT WITH AN HONORABLE and DIGNIFIED PURSUIT
OF HIS/HER PROFESSION, ADHERING TO A SET 0 CONDUCT BECOMING
OF HIS/HER CALLING, AND SHALL NOT:

1. Act in an unprofessional manner and demand any remuneration other

than his/her original charges except for additional services not covered
in the basic contract;
2. Supplant another Registered Master Plumber after definite steps have
already been taken toward his/her being commissioned to perform the
contract;
3. Underbid another Registered Master Plumber by reducing his/her
professional fees after being informed of the fees charged by the other
Registered Master Plumber;
4. Take the advantage of a salaried government position to compete
unfairly with a practicing Registered Master Plumber;
5. Allow the use of his/her License as Registered Master Plumber for a
fee to an unlicensed Master Plumber in plumbing works without his/her
personal supervision.
6. Injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the reputation of
another Registered Master Plumber by reviewing his/her work for the
same client unless the professional services of the former have been
officially terminated and all professional fees have been fully paid by the
client;
7. Advertise in self-laudatory language, act in any manner and engage in
any practice which tend to bring dishonor to the dignity of the
Registered Master Plumber, the National Master Plumbers Association
of the Philippines (NAMPAP) and the
plumbing profession.
 Chapter- 1 of Revised National Plumbing Code of the Philippines

ADMINISTRATION
• Section 100- PERMIT REQUIRED
To ensure compliance of the provisions of this Code, the professional
services of a Registered and Licensed Master Plumber shall be enlisted in
accordance with Republic Act No. 1378, the "Plumbing Law".

It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation, whether acting as

principal, servant, agent or employee, to do or cause to be done any
plumbing or drainage work for which a permit is required without
securing prior permit from the Office of the Building Official having
jurisdiction under the Department of Public Works 3Ild Highways,
Department of Interior & Local Government or City Mayors.
•• Section 101 -TO WHOM PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED
No permit shall be issued to any person, firm or corporation, to do or
cause to be done any installation of plumbing work regulated by this
Code, except to a Registered and Licensed Master Plumber, holding a
valid, unexpired and unrevoked certificate of registration as required by
Republic Act No. 1378, as amended .
••• Section 102- APPLICATION FOR PERMIT
102. 1 Application - A Registered and Licensed Master Plumber shall file
an application at the Office of the Building Official in behalf of the
building Owner for whom such work shall be done and shall till out the
forms provided for that purpose. Every application shall:

1 02.1.1 Identify and describe the plumbing work to be covered by the

permit for which an application is made;
102.1.2 Describe the land upon which the proposed plumbing work is to
be done, legal description, street address or similar description that will
readily identify and locate the proposed building or work;
• Sec. 148 NPC 1959
•• Sec. 149 NPC 1959
••• Sec. 150 NPC 1959
102.1.3 Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed plumbing
work is intended
1 02.1. 4 Be accompanied by plan, drawings, diagrams, computations,
technical specifications, and other data as required in Subsection 102.2
102.1.5 Give such other data and information as required by the
Administrative Authority;
102.1.6 Be signed by Owner or permittee, who is required to submit
evidence to indicate such authority; and
102.1.7 Be signed and sealed by the Registered and Licensed Master
Plumber.

102.2 Plans and Specifications - All plumbing plans, drawings. diagrams,

design analyses/computations as required, technical specifications, bills
of materials and other required documents for all types of occupancy
shall be prepared, signed and sealed by a Registered and Licensed
Master Plumber. without limitations, pursuant to Republic Act 1378, as
amended. and shall be submitted in six (6) sets of the aforementioned
requirements with each application for a permit.

102.3 Information on Plans and Specifications- shall be drawn to scale

on tracing paper or cloth and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the
location, nature and extent of the work proposed showing in detail,
conformance with the provisions of this Code, relevant laws, ordinances,
rules and regulations.
The technical specifications submitted shall comply with the provisions of
existing standards of the National Building Code and this Code.
Section 103-PERMIT ISSUANCE
I 03 .1.1 The application, plans, technical specifications and other
required documents filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed
by the Administrative Authority. Other concerned departments which
verify compliance with other applicable Jaws may review such plans. If
the Administrative Authority finds that the work described in an
application for permit and the plans, specifications and other documents
filed therewith conform to the requirements of the Plumbing Code and
other pertinent laws and ordinances, and upon payment of the fees
specified in Section I 05, a permit shall then be issued to the Applicant.

103 .1.2 When the Administrative Authority issues the permit he shall
endorse in writing or stamp the plans and specifications as "APPROVED".
Such approved plans and specifications shall not be changed, modified
or altered without authorization from the Administrative Authority and
all works shall be done in accordance with approved plans and
specifications.
103 .1.3 The Administrative Authority may issue a Partial Permit for the
construction of a part of a large and/or complicated plumbing system
before the entire plans and specifications for the whole system have
been submitted or approved, provided adequate information and
detailed statements have been filed, complying with all pertinent
requirements of this Code. The holder of such partial permit may
proceed at his own risk without assurance that the final permit for the
entire building, structure or plumbing system will be granted.
103.2 Retention of Plans- One set of approved plans, specifications,
computations and related data shall be retained by the Administrative
Authority. Two (2) sets of approved plans, specifications and data shall be
returned to the applicant and Owner, one ( 1) set of which shall be kept
at the jobsite at all times while the work is in progress.
103.3 Validity of Permit - The issuance of a permit or approval of plans
and specifications shall not be construed as a permit to violate any
provision of this Plumbing Code or of any other applicable ordinances.
The issuance of a permit based on submitted plans. specifications or
other documents shall not prevent the Administrative Authority from
thereafter requiring the correction of errors on said plans, specifications
and other documents . and from stopping an on-going plumbing
installations violative of this Code or of other pertinent ordinances of
this Jurisdiction.
103.4 Expiration- A plumbing permit issued under the provisions of this
Code shall expire and become null and void if the plumbing work
authorized therein is not commenced within one year from the date of
such permit or if the plumbing work so authorized is suspended or
abandoned at any time after having been commenced for a period of 120
days.
In case of renewal of a plumbing permit, a fee equivalent to one-half the
amount of the original fee shall be paid.
• 103 .5 Suspension or Revocation - The Administrative Authority may,
in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of
this Code whenever issued in error or on the basis of incorrect
information supplied or in violation of pertinent ordinances, rules and
regulations.

• Sec. 153 NPC 1959

Section 104-APPLICATION FOR EXISTING PLUMBING SYSTEM
104.1 Additions, Alterations or Repair- may be made to any existing
plumbing system provided the addition, alteration or repair works
conform to requirements for a new plumbing system. Additions,
alterations or repairs shall not render an existing system unsafe,
unsanitary or overloaded.
104.2 Changes in Building Occupancy- Plumbing systems which are a
part of any building or structure undergoing a change in use or
occupancy, as defined in the National Building Code, shall comply with
all requirements of this Code applicable to the changed use or
occupancy.
104.3 Maintenance - All plumbing systems, materials and
appurtenances, both existing and new, and all parts thereof shall be
maintained in proper operating condition. All devices or safeguards
required by this Code shall be maintained in conformance with the
existing Code edition at the time the plumbing system was installed. The
owner or his designated agent shall be responsible for the maintenance
of plumbing systems. To determine compliance with this subsection, the
Administrative Authority may cause the re-inspection of any plumbing
system.
104.4 Moved Buildings - Plumbing systems, which are part of buildings
or structures in one place and moved into another Jurisdiction. shall
comply with the provisions of this Code for new installation.
Section 105 - INSPECTIONS
105.1 General - All plumbing systems for which permits are required by
this Code shall be inspected by the Administrative Authority. No portion
of any plumbing system shall be concealed until inspected and
approved. The Administrative Authority or his representative shall not
be liable for expenses incurred in the removal and replacement of
materials required to warrant proper inspection. When the installation
of a plumbing system is complete, an additional and final inspection
shall be made. Plumbing systems regulated by this Code shall not be
connected to the water and energy fuel supplies nor to the sewer
system until authorized by the Administrative Authority and other
Agencies concerned.
All Administrative Plumbing Personnel, Plumbing Inspector shall be a
Registered and Licensed Master Plumber in accordance with the
provision of Republic Act 1378, otherwise, known as "Plumbing Law.
105.2 Operation of Plumbing Equipment- The requirements of this
Section do not prohibit the operation or use of any plumbing accessory
installed to replace existing equipment or fixtures serving an occupied
portion of the building when a request for inspection of such
equipment or fixtures has been filed with the Administrative Authority
not more than 72 hours after such replacement work is completed and
before any portion of such plumbing system is concealed by any
permanent portion of the building.
105.3 Testing of Systems - All plumbing systems shall be tested and
approved as required by this Code or the Administrative Authority.
105.4 Inspection Requests - It shall be the duty of the person doing the
plumbing work authorized by a permit to notify the Administrative
Authority that such work is ready for inspection. The Administrative
Authority requires that every request for inspection be filed at least
three (3) working days before such inspection is intended. Such request
shall be in writing and jointly signed by the Owner and the Registered
and Licensed Master Plumber- Contractor.
It shall be the duty of the person requesting inspections required by
this Code to provide access to and means t{)r proper inspection of such
work as well as provide all the equipment. the tools, power and water
required tor the test.
105.5 Other Inspections - ln addition to the inspections required by this
Code, the Administrative Authority may require other inspections of
the plumbing work to comply with the other provisions of this Code,
other pertinent laws and ordinances enforced by the Administrative
Authority.
l05.6 Re-inspections
105.6.1 A fee will be charged on the Applicant for each inspection or re-
inspection when a portion of the plumbing work for inspection is called
for is not completed.
105.6.2 This provision shall not be interpreted as requiring re-inspection
fees for the first time a job is rejected for failure to comply with the
requirements of this Code, but as deterrent on the practice of calling for
inspections before the job is ready for inspection or re-inspection.
105.6.3 Re-inspection fees shall be charged when the approved plans
are not readily available to the Inspector, for failure to provide access
and facility on the date when the inspection is requested, or for
deviating from plans requiring the approval of the Administrative
Authority.
105.6 .4 To obtain re-inspection, the Applicant shall file an application,
in writing, on a form furnished for that purpose and pay the re-
inspection fee.
105.6.5 In instances where re-inspection fees have been assessed, but
pending payment of required fees, no re-inspection of the work will be
performed.

Section 106-CONNECTION APPROVAL

106.1 Permanent Connections - no person shall install connections to
any water supply line, sewer or storm drain systems as required by this
Code and for which other applications and permits are also required
from other Agencies before approval by the Administrative Authority.
106.2 Temporary Connections - Administrative Authority will endorse to
other authorities or government agencies the issuance of temporary
connections of the plumbing equipment to the water supply main,
sewer main, power line and gas main for the purpose of testing the
equipment.
Section 107-SPECIAL PROVISIONS
107.1 All Licensed Master Plumbers registered in accordance with the
provisions of Republic Act No. 1378 shall secure for themselves a seal of
the standard size and type as required. The same shall be used on all
plumbing applications for permit and all plumbing plans prepared by
Registered and Licensed Master Plumbers as well as on all documents
required in the practice of their profession. The seal shall be round in
shape and shall be inscribed with the following:
107. 1. 1 Registered and Licensed Master Plumber at upper portion of the
round seal.
107.1 .2 Name of Registered and Licensed Master Plumber at the upper
center.
107.1.3 The registration number shall appear at the center below the
name.
107.1.4 Philippines, appearing at the lower portion of the round seal

Section 108- PLUMBING FIXTURES REQUIRED

Each building shall be provided with sanitary facilities in accordance with
best practice for mobility of disabled persons as provided in the National
Building Code of the Philippines or by other government departments
having jurisdiction.
Administration (from an American Plumbing Code)
ADM 1.1 TITLE
The regulations contained in the following chapters and sections shall be known as the “
Code" and may be cited as such, and hereinafter referred to as "this Code".

ADM 1.2 SCOPE

The provisions of this Code shall apply to every installation, including the erection, installation, alteration, reloca-
tion, repair, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of the plumbing system as defined within this Code.

ADM 1.3 PURPOSE

This Code establishes the minimum requirements and standards pertaining to the design, installation, use and
maintenance of the plumbing system as defined within this Code.

ADM 1.4 APPLICABILITY

1.4.1 Addition or Repair
Additions, alterations or repairs in compliance to this Code maybe made to any existing plumbing system
without requiring the existing installation to comply with all the requirements of this Code. Additions, alterations or
repairs shall not cause an existing system to become unsafe, insanitary or overloaded.

1.4.2 Existing Plumbing Installation

Plumbing systems that were lawfully installed prior to the adoption of this Code may continue their use, mainte-
nance or repairs, provided the maintenance or repair is in accordance with the original design, location, and no
hazard has been created to life, health or property by such plumbing system.

1.4.3 Existing Use

The lawful use of any plumbing installation, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances may have their use
continued, provided no hazards to life, health or property have been created by their continued use.

1.4.4 Maintenance and Repairs

The maintenance of all plumbing systems, materials, appurtenances, devices or safeguards, both existing and
new, shall be maintained in a safe and proper condition. The owner, or his designated agent, shall be responsible
for the maintenance of the plumbing system.
Minor repairs to or replacement of any existing systems are permitted, provided they are made in the same
manner and arrangement as the original installation and are approved.

1.4.5 Change of Building Use

The plumbing systems of any building or structure that is proposed for a change in use or occupancy shall
comply to all the requirements of this Code for the new use or occupancy-

1.4.6 Moved Buildings or Structures

The plumbing system in any building or structure to be moved into this jurisdiction shall comply with the provi-
sions of this Code for new construction.
 1.4.7 Special Historic Buildings
The provisions of this Code relating to the additions, alterations, repair, replacement or restoration of those
structures designated as historic buildings shall not be mandatory when such work is deemed to be safe and in the
public interest of health, safety and welfare by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

1.4.8 Appendices
The provisions in the appendices are intended to supplement the requirements of this Code and are considered
to be part of this Code when adopted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction

ADM 1.5 APPROVALS

1.5.1 Alternates
The provisions cited in this Code are not intended to prevent the use of any material or method of installation
when it is determined to meet the intent of this Code and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction

1.5.2 Authority Having Jurisdiction

The Authority Having Jurisdiction may approve any such alternate material or method of installation not ex-
pressly conforming to the requirements of this Code, provided it finds the proposed material or method of installa-
tion is at least the equivalent of that required in the Code or that the alternate material or method of installation
conforms to other nationally accepted plumbing standards. A record of such approval shall be kept and shall be
available to the public.

1.5.3 Tests Required

The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall require sufficient evidence to substantiate any claims made regarding the
equivalency of any proposed alternate material or method of installation. When the Authority Having Jurisdiction
determines that there is insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims, it may require tests to substantiate the
claims be made by an approved testing agency at the expense of the applicant.

1.5.4 Test Procedure

The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall require all tests be made in accordance with approved standards; but, in
the absence of such standards, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall specify the test procedure.

1.5.5 Retesting
The Authority Having Jurisdiction may require any tests to be repeated if, at any time, there is reason to believe
that any material or method of installation no longer conforms to the requirements on which the original approval
was based.

ADM 1.6 ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT

1.6.1 Authority Having Jurisdiction
The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be the individual official, board, department or agency duly appointed by
the jurisdiction as having the authority to administer and enforce the provisions of this Code as adopted or
amended.

1.6.2 Deputies
In accordance with the procedures set forth by the j urisdictional authority, the Authority Having Jurisdiction may
appoint such assistants, deputies. inspectors or other designated employees to carry out the administration and
enforcement of this Code.
 1.6.3 Right of Entry
When inspections are required to enforce the provisions of this Code, or there is reasonable cause to believe
there exists in any building, structure or premises, any condition or violation of this Code causing the building,
structure or premises to be unsafe, insanitary, dangerous or hazardous, the Authority Having Jurisdiction or its
designated representative may enter such building, structure or premises at reasonable times to inspect or perform
the duties imposed by this Code. When the building, structure or premises are occupied, proper credentials shall be
presented to the occupant when entry is required. in the event the building, structure or premises is unoccupied,
and entry is required, a reasonable effort shall be made to locate the owner or his agent in charge of such building,
structure or premises. In the event the occupant or owner of such building, structure or premises refuses entry, the
Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have recourse to the remedies provided by law to gain entry.

1.6.4 Stop Work Order

Upon notice from the Authority Having Jurisdiction, work being done on any building, structure or premises
contrary to the provisions of this Code, or in an unsafe and dangerous manner, shall be stopped immediately. The
stop work notice shall be in writing, served on the owner of the property, or his agent, or to the person doing such
work. It shall state the conditions under which the Authority Having Jurisdiction may grant authorization to
proceed with the work.

1.6.5 Authority to Condemn

When the Authority Having Jurisdiction determines that any plumbing system or portion thereof that is regulated
by this Code has become insanitary or hazardous to life, health or property, it shall order in writing that such
plumbing system or portion thereof be repaired, replaced or removed so as to be in code compliance. The written
order shall fix a reasonable time limit for the work to be brought into code compliance, and no person shall use the
condemned plumbing system until such work is complete and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

1.6.6 Authority to Abate

Any plumbing system, or portion thereof that is found to be insanitary or constitute a hazard to life, health or
property is hereby declared to be a nuisance. Where a nuisance exists, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall
require the nuisance to be abated and shall seek such abatement in the manner presc ribed by law.

1.6.7 Liability
The Authority Having Jurisdiction, or any individual duly appointed or authorized by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction to enforce this Code, acting in good faith and without malice, shall not thereby be rendered personally
liable for any damage that may occur to persons or property as a result of any act.-or by reason of any act or
omission in the lawful discharge of his duties. Should a suit be brought against the Authority Having Jurisdiction or
duly appointed representative because of such act or omission, it shall be defended by legal counsel provided by
this jurisdiction until final termination ofthe proceedings.

1.6.8 Work Prior to Permit

Where work for which a permit is required by this Code is started prior to obtaining the prescribed permit, the
applicant shall pay a double fee. In the event of an emergency where it is absolutely necessary to perform the
plumbing work immediately, such as nights, weekends or holidays, said fee shall not be doubled if a permit is
secured at the earliest possible time after the emergency plumbing work has been performed.

ADM 1.7 VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES

1.7.1 Violations
It shall be unlawful for any individual, partnership, firm or corporation to, or cause to, install. construct, erect,
alter, repair, improve, convert, move, use or maintain any plumbing system in violation of this Code.
 1.7.2 Penalties
Any individual, partnership, firm or corporation who shall violate or fail to comply with any of the requirements
of this Code shall be deemed guilty of a , and if convicted, shall be punishable by a fine or imprisonment
or both as established by this jurisdiction. Each day during which a violation occurs or continues, shall constitute a
separate offense.

ADM 1.8 PERMITS

1.8.1 Permits Required

It shall be unlawful for any individual, partnership, firm or corporation to commence, or cause to commence, any
installation, alteration, repair, replacement, conversion or addition to any plumbing system, or part thereof, regulated
by this Code, except as permitted in Section 1.8.2, without first obtaining a plumbing permit for each separate
building or structure, on forms prepared and provided by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

1.8.2 Permits Not Required for the Following

a. Permits shall not be required for the following work:
1 . The stoppage of leaks in drains, soil, waste or vent pipes. However, should the defect necessitate removal
and replacement with new material, it shall constitute new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection
made as required in this Code.
2. The clearing of stoppages.
3. The repairing of leaks in valves or fixtures.
4. The removing and reinstallation of a water closet for a cleanout opening provided the reinstallation does not
require replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or new fixtures.
b. Exemptions from obtaining a permit required by this Code shall not be construed as to authorize any work to
be performed in violation of this Code.

ADM 1.9 PROCESS FOR OBTAINING PERMITS

1.9.1 Application
a. Applications for a permit shall he made in writing by the person, or his agent, proposing to do such work
covered by the permit. The applicant shall file such application in writing on a form prepared and provided by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. Every such permit shall:
1. Describe in detail the work to be done for which the permit was obtained.
2. Describe in detail the parcel of land on which the proposed work is to be done by legal description, street
address or other means to definitely locate the site or building where the work is to be performed.
3. List the type of occupancy or use.
4. Provide plans, drawings, diagrams, calculations or other data as required by Section 1.9.2.
5. Be signed by the person or agent making application.
6. Provide any other information the Authority Having Jurisdiction may require.

1.9.2 Plans
Two or more sets of plans shall be submitted with each pen-nit application. The plans shall contain all the
engineering calculations, drawings, diagrams and other data as required for approval. The Authority Having
Jurisdiction may also require that the plans, drawings, diagrams and calculations be designed by an engineer and/or
architect licensed by the state in which the work is to be performed.
Except that the Authority Having Jurisdiction may waive the submission of plans and otherdata. provided it is
determined that the nature of the work covered by the permit does not require plan review to obtain code compliance.
 1.9.3 Specifications
All specifications required to be on the plans shall be drawn to scale and sufficiently clear to indicate the nature,
location and extent of the proposed work so as to show how it will conform to the requirements of this Code.

1.9.4 Permitlssuance
If, after reviewing the plans and specifications, the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that they are complete
and conform to the requirements of this Code, it shall authorize a permit to be issued upon payment of all the fees
specified in Section 1.10.1.

1.9.5 Approved Plans

When the Authority Having Jurisdiction issues a permit and plans were required, it shall endorse, either in
writing or stamp the plans "APPROVED", and all work shall be done in accordance with the plans without
deviation.

1.9.6 Plans Retention

The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall retain one set of approved plans until final approval of the work con-
tained therein. One set of approved plans shall be returned to the applicant and this set of approved plans shall be
kept on the job site at all times until final approval of the work contained therein. _ .,

1.9.7 Permit Validity

The issuance of a permit by the Authority Having Jurisdiction is not and shall not be construed to be authoriza-
tion or approval of any violation of the requirements of this Code. Any presumption of a permit to be authorization
to violate or cancel any provisions of this Code shall be invalid. The issuance of a permit based on plans submitted
shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from requiring the correction of any errors in the plans or
preventing the progress ofthe construction when it is in violation of any provision of this Code.

1.9.8 Permit Expiration

Every permit issued by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, in accordance with the provisions of this Code, shall
expire by limitation and become null and void when such work authorized by the permit has not commenced within
days from the date of issuance or if such work is suspended or abandoned for a period of _ days after com-
mencement of such work. In order for such work to recommence, a new permit shall be obtained and a fee of
percent of the original permit fee shall be charged, provided no changes have been made or will be made to the
original plans as submitted. The Authority Having Jurisdiction may grant an extension to any permit provided the
request is in writing by the permittee stating the reason or circumstances that prevented him from completing such
work as required by this Code.

1.9.9 Revocation or Suspension

At any time, the Authority Having Jurisdiction may suspend or revoke a permit issued in error or on the basis of
incorrect information submitted or in violation of any section of this Code. The suspension or revocation of such
permit shall be in written form by the Authority Having Jurisdiction stating the reason or purpose of such suspen-
sion or revocation.

ADM 1.10 PERMITS

1.10.1 Fees Schedule
The permit fees for all plumbing work shall be set forth by the Authority Having Jurisdiction of the jurisdiction
having authority.
 1.10.2 Plan Review Fees
When plans are reviewed as a requirement prior to issuance of a permit, the fee shall be equal to ^ percent
of the total permit fee as set forth in Section 1.10.1.

1.10.3 Plan Review Expiration

Permit application and plan review for which no permit is issued shall expire by limitation within _ days
following the date of application. All plan review fees shall be forfeited and the plans may be destroyed by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction or returned to the applicant.

1.10.4 Work Without a Permit

When any plumbing work is commenced without first obtaining a permit from the Authority Having Jurisdiction,
an investigation of such work shall be made before a permit may be issued. The investigation fee shall be collected
whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. Any investigation fee shall equal the amount of the permit
fee, if a permit were to be issued in accordance with this Code. If the investigation fee is collected, it shall not
exempt any person from compliance or penalties set forth in this Code.

1.10.5 Refunding of Fees

Any fee collected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction that was erroneously paid or collected may be refunded,
provided not more than percent of the fee payment shall be refunded when no work has been done. Any
request for the refunding of any fee shall be in writing by the applicant no later than days after the date of fee
payment.

ADM 1.11 INSPECTIONS

1.11.1 Required Inspections
All new plumbing systems, and parts of existing systems that require a permit shall be tested and inspected by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction prior to being covered or concealed. Where any such work has been covered or
concealed, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall require such work exposed for inspection and testing. All
equipment, material and labor required for testing the plumbing system shall be furnished by the permittee. The
Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not be liable for any expense incurred by the removal or replacement of materi-
als required to pen-nit inspection or testing. Such expense is the responsibility of the pennittee. Upon completion of
the rough plumbing installation, prior to covering or concealing any such work, the Authority Having Jurisdiction
shall inspect the work and any such test, as prescribed hereinafter, to disclose any leaks or defects. After comple-
tion of the plumbing system and the plumbing fixtures are set and their traps filled with water, a final inspection
shall be conducted as required by this Code. Additional inspections may be required when alternate materials or
methods of installation are approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

1.11.2 Exception:
For moved-in or relocated structures, minor installations and repairs, the Authority Having Jurisdiction may
make other such inspections or tests as necessary to assure that the work has been performed and is safe for use
in accordance with the intent of this Code.

1.11.3 Use of Existing Plumbing

The operation of any plumbing installation to replace existing systems or fixtures serving an occupied portion of
any building or structure shall not be considered by the requirements of this Code to prohibit such operation,
provided a request for inspection has been made to the Authority Having Jurisdiction within 48 hours of such work
and before any such work is covered or concealed.
 1.11.4 System Testing
All new plumbing systems and parts of existing systems shall be tested and approved as required elsewhere in
this Code.

1.11.5 Requests for Inspection

The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be notified by the person doing the work, authorized by the permit, that
such work is subjected to the required tests and is ready for inspection. The method of request, whether in writing
or by telephone, shall be established by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
It shall be the duty of the permittee doing the work authorized by a permit to provide reasonable access and
means for accomplishing proper inspections.

1.11.6 Other Inspections

The Authority Having Jurisdiction may require other inspections, in addition to those required by this Code, of
any plumbing work in order to ascertain compliance with the requirements of this Code.

1.11.7 Reinspection Fees

a. The assessment of a reinspection fee may be required for any of the following:
1. For any portion of work not completed for which inspection was requested.
2. For any required corrections that have not been completed and for which reinspection was requested.
3. For not having the approved plans on site and readily available to the inspector.
4. Failure to provide access for inspection on the date inspection was requested.
5. Deviation from the approved plans that would require reapproval of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
6. Failure to provide correct address.
b. This provision is intended to control the practice of calling for inspections prior to having work ready for
inspection and not for the first time job rejection for not complying with the installation requirements.
c. Upon the assessment of a reinspection fee, the applicant shall pay the reinspection fee in accordance with
Section 1.10.1 and no additional inspections shall be performed until all fees have been paid.

ADM 1.12 FINAL CONNECTIONS

1.12.1 Energy or Fuel
It shall be unlawful for any person to make, or cause to make, any connection to any source of energy or fuel to
any plumbing system or equipment regulated by this Code prior to the approval of the Authority Having Jurisdic-
tion.

1.12.2 Water and Sewer

It shall be unlawful for any person to make, or cause to make, any connection to any water supply or sewer
system to any plumbing system or equipment regulated by this Code prior to the approval of the Authority Having
Jurisdiction.

1.12.3 Temporary Connection

By authorization of the Authority Having Jurisdiction, a temporary connection maybe made to any plumbing
equipment to a source of energy or fuel for testing purposes only.

ADM 1.13 UNCONSTITUTIONALITY

Should any chapter, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Code be held for any reason as
unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining chapters, sections, subsections, sen-
tences, clause or phrases of this Code.
Blank Page
Basic Principles(from an American Plumbing Code)
This Code is founded upon certain basic principles of environmental sanitation and safety through properly
designed, acceptably installed, and adequately maintained plumbing systems. Sonic of the details ofplumbing
construction may vary but the basic sanitary and safety principles desirable and necessary to protect the health of
the people are the same everywhere.
The establishment oftrade jurisdictional areas is not within the scope of this Code. This inclusion of material,
even though indicated as approved for purposes of this Code, does not infer unqualified endorsement as to its
selection or serviceability in any or every installation.
As interpretations may be required, and as unforeseen situations arise which are not specifically covered in this
Code, the twenty-two principles which follow shall be used to define the intent.

Principle No. 1-ALL OCCUPIED PREMISES SHALL HAVE POTABLE WATER

All premises intended for human habitation, occupancy, or use shall be provided with a supply of potable water.
Such a water supply shall not be connected with unsafe water sources, nor shall it be subject to the hazards of
backflow.

Principle No. 2-ADEQUATE WATER REQUIRED

Plumbing fixtures, devices, and appurtenances shall be supplied with water in sufficient volume and at pressures
adequate to enable them to function properly and without undue noise under normal conditions of use.

Principle No. 3-HOT WATER REQUIRED

Hot water shall be supplied to all plumbing fixtures which normally need or require hot water for their proper use
and function.

PrincipleNo.4-WATER CONSERVATION
Plumbing shall be designed and adjusted to use the minimum quantity of water consistent with proper performance
and cleaning.

Principle No. 5--SAFETY DEVICES

Devices for heating and storing water shall be so designed and installed as to guard against dangers from explosion
or overheating.

PrincipleNo.6-USE PUBLIC SEWER WHERE AVAILABLE

Every building with installed plumbing fixtures and intended for human habitation, occupancy, or use, and located
on premises where a public sewer is on or passes said premises within a reasonable dist ance, shall be connected to
the sewer.

PrincipleNo.7-REQUIRED PLUMBING FIXTURES

Each family dwelling unit shall have at least one water closet, one lavatory, one kitchen-type sink, and one bathtub
or shower to meet the basic requirements of sanitation and personal hygiene.
All other structures for human habitation shall be equipped with sufficient sanitary facilities. Plumbing fixtures shall
be made of durable, smooth, non-absorbent and corrosion resistant material and shall be free from concealed
fouling surfaces.
 Principle No. 8-DRAINAGE SYSTEM
The drainage system shall be designed, constructed, and maintained to guard against fouling, deposit of solids and
clogging, and with adequate cleanouts so arranged that the pipes may be readily cleaned.

Principle No. 9-DURABLE MATERIALS AND GOOD WORKMANSHIP

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. l0FIXTURE TRAPS

Each fixture directly connected to the drainage system shall be equipped with a liquid seal trap.

Principle No. 11-TRAP SEALS SHALL BE PROTECTED

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-EXHAUST FOUL AIR TO OUTSIDE

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-TEST THE PLUMBING SYSTEM

The plumbing system shall be subjected to such tests as will effectively disclose all leaks and defects in the work
or the material.

PrincipleNo. 14-EXCLUDE CERTAIN SUBSTANCES FROM THE PLUMBING SYSTEM

No substance which will clog or accentuate clogging of 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.

Principle No. 15--PREVENT CONTAMINATION

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-LIGHT AND VENTILATION

No water closet or similar fixture shall be located in a room or compartment which is not properly lighted and
ventilated.

Principle No. 17-INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEMS

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 sewage by some accepted method of sewage
treatment and disposal.
 Principle No. 18-PREVENT SEWER FLOODING
Where a plumbing drainage system is subject to backflow of sewage from the public sewer or private disposal
system, suitable provision shall be made to prevent its overflow in the building.

Principle No. 19-PROPER MAINTENANCE

Plumbing systems shall be maintained in a safe and serviceable condition from the standpoint of both mechanics
and health.

Principle No. 20-FIXTURES SHALL BE ACCESSIBLE

All plumbing fixtures shall be so installed with regard to spacing as to be accessible for their intended use and for
cleaning.

PrincipleNo.2l-STRUCTURAL SAFETY
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.

Principle No. 22-PROTECT GROUND AND SURFACE WATER

Sewage or other waste shall not be discharged into surface or sub-surface water unless it has first been subjected
to some acceptable form of treatment.
Blank Page
Plumbing Terminologies with Illustrations (from an American
-
Plumbing code)

1.1 GENERAL
For the purpose of this Code, the following terms shall have the meaning indicated in this chapter. No attempt is
made to define ordinary words that are used in accordance with their established dictionary meaning, except
where it is necessary to define their meaning as used in this Code to avoid misunderstanding.

1.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Accessible and Readily Accessible:

Accessible: access thereto without damaging building surfaces, but that first may require the removal of an
access panel, door or similar obstructions with the use of tools. See Figure 1.2.1

Readily accessible: access without requiring the use of tools for removing or moving any panel, door or
similar obstruction. See Figure 1.2.1

VALVE IS ACCESSIBLE IF LATCH

IS SCREWDRIVER-OPERATED

VALVE IS READILY ACCESSIBLE IF

LATCH IS HANDLE-OPERATED

Figure 1.2.1
AN EXAMPLE OF ACCESSIBLE AND READILY ACCESSIBLE

Acid Waste: See "Special Wastes"

Adopting Agency (See also "Authority Having Jurisdiction") The agency, board or authority having the
duty and power to establish the plumbing code that will govern the installation of all plumbing work to be per-
formed in the jurisdictions.

Air Break (drainage system): A piping arrangement in which a drain from a fixture, appliance, or device
discharges into a fixture, receptor, or interceptor at a point below the flood level rim and above the trap seal of the
receptor. See Figure 1.2.2 and Section 9.1.3
 Comment: Air breaks are permitted where backflow cannot occur due to back- siphonage.

A. AIR BREAK IN FLOOR SINK B. AIR BREAK IN CLOTHES

WASHER STANDPIPE
Figure 1.2.2
AIR BREAKS

Air Chamber: A pressure surge absorbing device operating through the compressibility of air.

Comment: The Code no longer mentions air chambers. Air chambers were usually field fabricated and
were initially filled with air at atmospheric pressure. There was direct contact between the captive air
and water, which permitted the air to be absorbed into the water over a period of time. The Code now
calls for water hammer arrestors, which are pre-charged with compressed air or gas and have bellows or
pistons that separate the air or gas front the water. See Figure 1.2.3.

WATER
SUPPLY

NOTES:
1. For maximum effectiveness, the water hammer arrestor should be oriented so that the direction of
the shock wave caused by the quick-closing valve is into the arrestor. Refer to the manufacturer's
instructions.
2. The number of elbows upstream from the water hammer arrestor should be minimized. Each elbow
represents a point of shock and potential failure.

Figure 1.2.3
A WATER HAMMER ARRESTOR
Air Gap (drainage system): The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the outlet
of the waste pipe and the flood level rim of the receptor into which it is discharging. See Figure 1.2.4

Comment: Air gaps are required where backflow can occur due to back-siphonage.

Figure 1.2.4
AN AIR GAP FOR INDIRECT WASTE PIPING

Air Gap (water distribution system): The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between
the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank, plumbing fixture or other device and the
lfood level rim of the receptor. See Figure 1.2.5

Comment #]: The minimum required air gap distance is based on the effective opening of the water
supply outlet. The air gap must be increased if the outlet is close to walls or other vertical surfaces. See
Section 10.5.2 and Table 10.5.2.

Comment #2: 1f air is being drawn into the tub spout by a vacuum in the water supply piping, waste
water at the flood level rim of the fixture will tend to be lifted upward towards the spout opening by the
flow of air. The water will lift higher if the spout opening is close to a wall.

Figure 1.2.5
AN AIR GAP FOR A POTABLE WATER OUTLET
Anchors: See "Supports." See Chapter 8

Anti-scald Valve: See "Water Temperature Control Valve." See Section 10.15.6

Approved: Accepted or acceptable under an applicable standard stated or cited in this Code, or accepted as
suitable for the proposed use under procedures and powers of the Authority Having Jurisdiction as defined in
Section 3.12. See Sections 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.1.3, and 3.12

Area Drain: A receptor designed to collect surface or storm water from an open area. See Figures 1.2.6 and
13.1.6

Figure 1.2.6
AREA DRAINS IN WINDOW WELLS AND STAIR WELLS

Aspirator: A fitting or device supplied with water or other fluid under positive pressure that passes through an
integral orifice or "constriction" causing a vacuum. See Figure 1.2.7 and Section 14.13

Comment: Buckflow prevention is required where the fluid supply is potable water.

i -

Figure 1.2.7
AN ASPIRATOR FITTING
 Authority Having Jurisdiction (See also "Adopting Agency")
The individual official, board, department or agency established and authorized by a state, county, city or other
political subdivision created by law to administer and enforce the provisions of the plumbing code as adopted or
amended.

Automatic Flushing Device: A device that automatically flushes a fixture after each use without the need for
manual activation.

Auxiliary Floor Drain: A floor drain that does not receive the discharge from any indirect waste pipe. Auxiliary floor
drains have no DFU loading.

Backflow Connection: Any arrangement whereby backflow can occur.

Comment: See "Cross Connection':

Backflow (drainage): A reversal of flow in the drainage system.

Backflow Preventer: A device or means to prevent backflow. See Figures 1.2.5, 1.2.8, 1.2.9, 1.2.23,
1.2.25, 1.2.26, 1.2.27, 1.2.48, 1.2.66, and 1.2.67.

Comment: Refer to the definitions of "backilow (water distribution) "back pressure backflow",
"back-siphonage", "critical level'. "cross connection", "double check valve assembly". "reduced
pressure principle back pressure backflow preventor", "vacuum breaker, atmospheric", "vacuum
breaker, pressure type", and "vacuum breaker, spill-proof.

POTABLE WATER
TO BUILDING

Figure 1.2.8
BACKFLOW CAUSED BY BACK-PRESSURE
 NOTES:
1. Back-pressure backflow is generally caused by water pressure producing equipment within a
building.
2. The hot water heating boiler operates at up to 30 psig and has a chemical shot feeder.
3. The pressure in the public water main can drop below 30 psig due to a shutdown for repair or heavy
demand for fire fighting operations.
4. The check valve and pressure reducing valve in the water makeup to the heating system are not
adequate to prevent back-pressure backflow.
5. The chemical feeder creates a potential "high hazard" that requires a reduced pressure zone
backflow preventor (RPZ). Otherwise, a double check valve assembly would be adequate.
6. An RPZ at Point "A" is required to protect the water distribution system within the building from
backflow of chemically treated boiler water.
7. An RPZ at Point "B" would "contain" the building and prevent it from backflowing any potential
contamination into the public water system.

Figure 1.2.8 (NOTES)

BACKFLOW CAUSED BY BACK-PRESSURE

Figure 1.2.9
BACKFLOW CAUSED BY BACK-SIPHONACE

Backflow (Water Distribution): The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances from any source or
sources into the distribution pipes of a potable water system. Back- siphonage is one type of backflow. See
Figures 1.2.8 and 1.2.9

Backpressure Backflow: Backflow caused by a higher pressure in the non-potable system than in the potable
supply system. See Figure 1.2.8

Back- siphonage: Backflow caused by a greater negative pressure in the potable system than in the non-potable
supply system. See Figure 1.2.9

Backwater Valve: A device installed in a drain pipe to prevent backflow. See Figure 1.2.10
 Comment: Backwater valves are swing-type check valves that are installed in drainage piping to prevent
the reversal of flow in the piping and overflows due to stoppages, flooding, or other abnormal condi-
tions. Refer to Section 5.5.1 for where backwater valves are required.

DIRECTION OF
DRAINAGE FLOW

Figure 1.2.10
A BACKWATER VALVE

Baptistery: A tank or pool for baptizing by total immersion.

Bathroom Group: A group of fixtures in a dwelling unit bathroom consisting of one water closet, one or two
lavatories, and either one bathtub, one combination bath/shower or one shower stall. Other fixtures within the
bathing facility shall be counted separately when determining the water supply and drainage fixture unit loads.

Battery of Fixtures: Any group of two or more similar adjacent fixtures that discharge into a common horizontal
waste or soil branch. See Figure 1.2.11

Comment: Batteries of fixtures can be "battery vented" in groups of up to eight fixtures in accordance
with Section 12.13. Fixtures that are "battery vented" do not have to be the same type.

PLAN VIEW

Figure 1.2.11
A BATTERY OF FIXTURES

Bedpan Steamer: A fixture used for scalding bedpans or urinals by direct application of steam. See Section
14.10

Boiler Blow-off: An outlet on a boiler to permit emptying or discharge of sediment. See Figure 1.2.12
 A BOILER BLOWOFF TANK

Boiler Blow-off Tank: A vessel designed to receive the discharge from a boiler blow-off outlet and to cool the
discharge to a temperature that permits its safe discharge to the drainage system. See Figure 1.2.12

Comment. Boiler blow-off must be cooled to 140°F or less before being discharged into the drainage
system. If potable water is supplied for cooling, the water source must be protected from backflow.
An air break can be provided at the discharge from the blow-off tank into the drainage system if the
makeup water supply to the boiler is protected against backflow.

Branch: Any part of the piping system other than a riser, main or stack. See Figure 1.2.13

Comment: Branch piping can serve more than one fixture or appliance.
 Figure 1.2.13
BRANCH PIPING

Branch, Fixture: See "Fixture Branch"

Branch, Horizontal: See "Horizontal Branch Drain"

Branch Interval: A distance along a soil or waste stack corresponding, in general, to a story height, but in no
case less than 8 feet within which the horizontal branches from one floor or story of a building are connected to
the stack. See Figure 1.2.14

Comment: Branch intervals are used to determine the potential drainage load on stacks for the purpose
of sizing the stacks.

A-B AND B-D ARE

BRANCH INTERVALS
B-C AND C-D ARE
NOT BRANCH
INTERVALS

Figure 1.2.14
BRANCH INTERVALS

Branch Vent: See "Vent, Branch"

Building: A structure having walls and a roof designed and used for the housing, shelter, enclosure, or support
of persons, animals, or property.

Building Classification: The arrangement adopted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for the designation of
buildings in classes according to occupancy. See Table 7.21.1

Comment: The building classifications in Table 7.21.1 for the minimum number of required plumbing
fixtures include assembly, business, education, factory and industrial, institutional, mercantile, residen-
tial, storage, and utility/miscellaneous.

Figure 1.2.15
A COMBINED BUILDING DRAINAGE SYSTEM

Building Drain: The lowest piping in a drainage system that receives the discharge from stacks and horizontal
fixture branches within a building that convey sewage, waste, or other drainage to a building sewer beginning
three (3) feet outside the building wall. Horizontal fixture branches are sized according to Table 11.5. until
they connect to the building drain or a branch of the building drain that serves two or more horizontal fixture
branches. See Figure 1.2.16

Building Drain, Combined: A building drain which conveys both sewage and storm water or other drainage.
See Figure 1.2.15
 Figure 1.2.16
SEPARATE SANITARY AND STORMWATER BUILDING DRAINS AND SEWERS

Building Drain, Sanitary: A building drain that conveys sewage only. See Figure 1.2.16

Building Drain, Storm: A building drain that conveys storm water or other drainage, but no-sewage: See
Figure 1.2.16

Building Sewer: That part of the drainage system which extends from the end of the building drain and conveys
its discharge to a public sewer, private sewer, individual sewage-disposal system or other point of disposal. See
Figure 1.2.16

Building Sewer, Combined: A building sewer that conveys both sewage and storm water or other drainage.
Sec Figure 1.2.15

Building Sewer, Sanitary: A building sewer that conveys sewage only. See Figure 1.2.16

Building Sewer, Storm: A building sewer that conveys storm water or other drainage but no sewage. See
Figure 1.2.16
Building Subdrain: That portion of a drainage system that does not drain by gravity into the building sewer or
building drain. See Figure 1.2.17

Figure 1.2.17
A BUILDING SUBDRAIN

Building Trap: A device, fitting, or assembly of fittings, installed in the building drain to prevent circulation of air
between the drainage system of the building and the building sewer. See Figure 1.2.18

Comment: Building traps are currently installed only when required by the Authority Having Jurisdic-
tion.

Figure 1.2.18
A BUILDING TRAP
 Cesspool: A lined and covered. excavation in the ground that receives the discharge of domestic sewage or other
organic wastes from a drainage system, so designed as to retain the organic matter and solids, but permitting the
liquids to seep through the bottom and sides.

Comment: Chapter 16 does not permit cesspools or cesspits, into which untreated sewage is discharged
and allowed to seep into the ground. Chapter 16 requires septic tanks to retain the sewage until digested
and absorption trenches or seepage pits for underground disposal of the effluent.

Chemical Waste: See "Special Wastes" See Sections 2.10 and 9.4

Circuit Vent: See "Vent, Circuit" See Figure 12.13.1

Clear Water Waste: Effluent in which impurity levels are less than concentrations considered harmful by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction, such as cooling water and condensate drainage from refrigeration and air condition-
ing equipment, cooled condensate from steam heating systems, and residual water from ice making processes.

Comment: Refer to Section 9.1.8 for whether a clear water waste requires an air gap or an air break at
its discharge into the drainage system.

Clinical Sink: A sink designed primarily to receive wastes from bedpans, having a flushing rim, integral trap
with a visible trap seal, and having the same flushing and cleansing characteristics as a water closet. See Sec-
tion 14.8

Code: These regulations, or any emergency rule or regulation that the Authority Having Jurisdiction may lawfully
adopt.

Combination Fixture: A fixture combining one sink and laundry tray, or a two- or three-compartment sink or
laundry tray in one unit. See Figure 1.2.19

Comment: Combination fixtures with waste outlets not more than 30 inches apart can have one trap

Figure 1.2.19
COMBINATION FIXTURES

Combination Thermostatic/Pressure Balancing Valve: See "Thermostatic/Pressure Balancing Valve,

Combined"

Combination Waste and Vent System: A designed system of waste piping embodying the horizontal wet
venting of one or more sinks or floor drains by means of a common waste and vent pipe adequately sized to
provide free movement of air above the flow line of the drain. See Figure 1.2.20 and Section 12.17
 Comment #1: Combination waste and vent piping systems are permitted where conditions preclude the
installation of a conventionally vented system. Such systems are frequently used in exhibition halls and
other spaces where long clear spans are required without partitions or pipe chases.

Comment #2: Only floor drains, floor receptors, sinks, lavatories, and standpipes can be discharged into
a combination waste and vent piping system.

Figure 1.2.20
COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT PIPING

Combined Building Drain: See "Building Drain, Combined"

Combined Building Sewer: See "Building Sewer, Combined"

Common Vent: See "Vent, Common"

Conductor: A pipe within a building that conveys stormwater from a roof to its connection to a building storm
drain or other point of disposal. See Figure 1.2.21

Comment: A vertical storm water drain pipe on the exterior of a building is a leader.

Figure 1.2.21
A STORMWATER CONDUCTOR
Contamination: The impairment of the quality of the potable water that creates an actual hazard to the public health
through poisoning or through the spread of disease by sewage, industrial fluids or waste. (See the definition of
"pollution").

Continuous Vent: See "Vent, Continuous"

Continuous Waste: A drain from two or more fixtures connected to a single trap. See Figure 1.2.22

Comment: Continuous waste piping can connect up to three adjacent sinks or lavatories to a single trap
if the fixture outlets are no more than 30" apart. See Section 5.1.

Figure 1.2.22
CONTINUOUS WASTE PIPING

Critical Level: The marking on a backflow prevention device or vacuum breaker established by the manufac-
turer, and usually stamped on the device by the manufacturer, that determines the minimum elevation above the
flood level rim of the fixture or receptor served at which the device must be installed. When a backflow preven-
tion device does not bear a critical level marking, the bottom of the vacuum breaker, combination valve, or the
bottom of any approved device constitutes the critical level. See Figure 1.2.23 and Sections 10.5.5.b, c, and e

Figure 1.2.23
THE CRITICAL LEVEL (C-L) OF A VACUUM BREAKER
Cross Connection: Any connection or arrangement between two otherwise separate piping systems, one of that
contains potable water and the other either water of questionable safety, steam, gas, or chemical, whereby there
may be a flow from one system to the other, the direction of flow depending on the pressure differential between
the two systems (See "Backflow and Back- Siphonage). See Figures 1.2.8 and 1.2.9

Comment: The backflow of contamination into a potable water system through across connection can
occur by back-siphonage caused by the water system or back-pressure from the source of contamination.

Day Care Center: A facility for the care and/or education of children ranging from 2-1/2 years of age to 5 years
of age.

Day Nursery: A facility for the care of children less than 2-1/2 years of age.

Dead End, Potable Water: A branch line terminating at a developed length of two (2) feet or more from
an active potable water line by means of a plug or cap. See Figure 1.2.24

Comment: An extension of 2 feet or more to make a ckanout accessible is not considered to be a dead
end.

Figure 1.2.24
DEAD ENDS IN DRAIN AND VENT PIPING

Dead End, Soil, Waste, or Vent: A branch leading from a soil, waste or vent pipe, building drain, or
building sewer line and terminating at a developed length of two (2) feet or more by means of a plug, cap,
or other closed fitting.

Developed Length: The length of a pipe line measured along the center line of the pipe and fittings.

Diameter: See "Size of Pipe & Tubing"

Domestic Sewage: The water-borne wastes derived from ordinary living processes.
 Figure 1.2.25
A DOUBLE CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY

Double Check Valve Assembly: A backflow prevention device consisting of two independently acting check
valves, internally force loaded to a normally closed position between two tightly closing shut-off valves, and with
means of testing for tightness. See Figure 1.2.25

Double Offset: See "Offset, Double"

Downspout: See "Leader"

Drain: Any pipe that carries waste or water-borne wastes in a building drainage system.

Drainage Pipe: See "Drainage System"

Drainage, Sump : A liquid and air-tight tank that receives sewage and/or liquid waste, located below the
elevation of a gravity drainage system, that is emptied by pumping.

Drainage System: All the piping within public or private premises that conveys sewage, rain water, or other
liquid wastes to a point of disposal. It does not include the mains of a public sewer system or private or public
sewage-treatment facilities.

Drainage System, Building Gravity: A drainage system that drains by gravity into the building sewer. See
Figure 1.2.16

Drainage System, Sub-building: See "Building Subdrain" See Figure 1.2.17

Dry Vent: See "Vent, Dry"

Dry Well: See "Leaching Well"

Dual Vent: See "Vent, Common"

Dwelling Unit, Multiple: A room, or group of rooms, forming a single habitable unit with facilities that are used,
or intended to be used, for living, sleeping, cooking and eating; and whose sewer connections and water supply,
within its own premise, are shared with one or more other dwelling units. Multiple dwelling units include guest
rooms in hotels and motels.
 Comment: Apartments, condominiums, and guest rooms in hotels and motels are examples of multiple
dwelling units.

Dwelling Unit, Single: A room, or group of rooms, forming a single habitable unit with facilities that are used, or
intended to be used, for living, sleeping, cooking and eating; and whose sewer connections and water supply are,
within its own premise, separate from and completely independent of any other dwelling.

DWV: An acronym for "drain-waste-vent" referring to the combined sanitary drainage and venting systems.
This term is equivalent to "soil-waste-vent" (SWV).

Effective Opening: The minimum cross-sectional area at the point of water supply discharge, measured or
expressed in terms of (1) diameter of a circle, or (2) if the opening is not circular, the diameter of a circle of
equivalent cross-sectional area. See Figures 1.2.26 and 1.2.27

Comment: The required air gap distance for a water supply outlet is based on its effective opening. The
air gap must be increased if the outlet is near a wall or other vertical surface. Refer to Table 10.5.2 for
minimum air gaps for plumbing fixtures.

Figure 1.2.27
AN AIR CAP BETWEEN POTABLE AND NON-POTABLE WATER SYSTEMS

Equivalent Length: The length of straight pipe of a specific diameter that would produce the same frictional
resistances as a particular fitting or line comprised of pipe and fittings. See Tables B.9.7A and B.9.7B

Existing Plumbing System: An existing plumbing system, or any part thereof, installed prior to the effective
date of this Code.

Existing Work: A plumbing system, or any part thereof, installed prior to the effective date of this Code.
Family: One or more individuals living together and sharing the same facilities.

Fixture: See "Plumbing Fixture"

Fixture Branch, Drainage: A drain serving one or more fixtures that discharges into another drain. See
Figure 1.2.28

Comment: See Table]]. S.I.B for the maximum number of drainage fixture units (DFU) permitted on
each size of horizontal fixture branch.

Figure 1.2.28
A FIXTURE DRAIN AND FIXTURE BRANCH

Fixture Branch, Supply: A branch of the water distribution system supplying one fixture. See Figure 1.2.29

Comment: See Table 1014.2.A for minimum supply fixture branch sizes for various fixtures.

Figure 1.2.29
A FIXTURE SUPPLY BRANCH AND FIXTURE SUPPLY TUBE

Fixture Drain: The drain from the trap of a fixture to the junction of that drain with any other drain pipe.
Fixture Unit (Drainage -DFU): An index number that represents the load of a fixture on the drainage system
so that the load of various fixtures in various applications can be combined. The value is based on the volume or
volume rate of drainage discharge from the fixture, the time duration of that discharge, and the average time
between successive uses of the fixture. One DFU was originally equated to a drainage flow rate of one cubic foot
per minute or 7.5 gallons per minute through the fixture outlet. See Table 11.4.1

Fixture Unit (Water Supply WSFU): An index number that represents the load of a fixture on the water
supply system so that the load of various fixtures in various applications can be combined. The value is based on
the volume rate of supply for the fixture, the time duration of a single supply operation, and the average time
between successive uses of the fixture. Water supply fixture units were originally based on a comparison to a
flushometer valve water closet, which was arbitrarily assigned a value of 10 WSFU. See Table 10.14.2A. Also
Tables B.5.2 and B.5.3.

Flexible Water Connector: A connector under continuous pressure in an accessible location that connects a supply
iftting, faucet, dishwasher, cloths washer, water heater, water treatment unit, or other fixture or equipment to a stop
valve or its water supply branch pipe

Flood Level: See "Flood Level Rim"

Flood Level Rim: The edge of the receptor or fixture over which water flows if the fixture is flooded. See
Figure 1.2.30

Comment: Air gaps are measured from above the flood level rim of receptors and fixtures.

WATER URINAL FLOOR SINK LAVATORY BATHTUB

CLOSET DRAIN

Figure 1.2.30
THE FLOOD LEVEL RIM OF FIXTURES

Flooded: The condition that results when the liquid in a receptor or fixture rises to the flood level rim.

Flow Pressure: The pressure in the water supply pipe near the faucet or water outlet while the faucet or water
outlet is fully open and flowing. See Figure 1.2.31

Comment: The minimum required flowing water pressure for most fixtures and appliances is 15 prig.
Blowout water closets and blowout urinals require 25psig minimum. Some one-piece water closets
require 30 psig minimum and 112" supply tubes.
 Figure 1.2.31
THE FLOW PRESSURE OF THE WATER SUPPLY TO AN OUTLET

Flush Pipes and Fittings: The pipe and fittings that connect a flushometer valve or elevated flush tank to a water
closet, urinal, or bed pan washer.

Flushing Type Floor Drain: A floor drain that is equipped with an integral water supply connection, enabling
flushing of the drain receptor and trap. See Figure 1.2.32

I Comment: The water supply to f lushing floor drains must be protected from backlow.

Figure 1.2.32
A FLUSHING TYPE FLOOR DRAIN

Flush Valve: A device located at the bottom of a tank for flushing water closets and similar fixtures. See
Figure 1.2.33
 Figure 1.2.33
A FLUSH VALVE IN A WATER CLOSET FLUSH TANK

Flushometer Tank: A water closet flush tank that uses an air accumulator vessel to discharge a predetermined
quantity of water into the closet bowl for flushing purposes. See Figure 1.2.34

Comment: Flushometer tanks are pressure-assisted flush tanks that store water for flushing water closets
at the inlet water supply pressure, as opposed to gravity tanks. The discharge rate from. Flushometer
tanks is approximately 35 gallons per minute.

Figure 1.2.34
A PRESSURE-ASSISTED WATER CLOSET WITH A FLUSHOMETER TANK

Flushometer Valve: A device that discharges a predetermined quantity of water to fixtures for flushing and is
closed by direct water pressure or other means. See Figure 1.2.35

Comment: Flushometer valves are typically used on public water closets and public urinals. They can
be manually operated or electronically operated.
 Figure 1.2.35
A FLUSHOMETER VALVE

Force Main: A main that delivers waste water under pressure from a sewage ejector or pump to its destina-
tion.

Full-way valve: Full-way valves include gate valves, full port ball valves, and other valves that are identified by their
manufacturer as full port or full bore.

Grade: The fall (slope) of a line of pipe in reference to a horizontal plane. See Figure 1.2.36.

Comment: See Tables 11.53A and 11.5.]B for sizing building drains, building sewers, and horizontal
fixture branches. See Table 13.6.2 for stormwater drains.

Figure 1.2.36
GRADE ON A SLOPING GRAVITY DRAIN

Grease Interceptor: A plumbing appurtenance that is installed in the sanitary drainage system to intercept oily and
greasy wastes from wastewater discharges, typically in commercial kitchens and food processing plants. Such
equipment has the ability to intercept commonly occurring free-floating fats and oils.

Grease Recovery Device (GRD): A plumbing appurtenance that is installed in the sanitary drainage system to
intercept and remove free-floating fats, oils, and grease from wastewater discharges, typically in commercial kitchens
and food processing plants. Such equipment operates on a time or event- controlled basis and has the ability to remove
the entire range of commonly occurring free-floating fats, oils, and grease automatically without intervention from the
user except for maintenance. The removed material is essentially water-free, which allows for recycling of the
removed product.

Grease Trap: See "Interceptor"

Grinder Pump: A pump for sewage that shreds or grinds the solids in the sewage that it pumps.

Ground Water: Subsurface water occupying the zone of saturation. (a) confined ground water a body of ground
water overlaid by material sufficiently impervious to sever free hydraulic connection with overlying ground water. (b)
free ground water ground water in the zone of saturation extending down to the first impervious barrier.

Half-Bath: A room that contains one water closet and one lavatory within a dwelling unit.

Hangers: See "Supports" See Chapter 8

Health Hazard In backflow prevention, an actual or potential threat of contamination of the potable water supply
to the plumbing system of a physical or toxic nature that would be a danger to health. Health hazards include any
contamination that could cause death, illness, or spread of disease.

Horizontal Branch Drain: A drain pipe extending laterally from a soil stack, waste stack or building drain with
or without vertical sections or branches, that receives the waste discharged from one or more fixture drains and
conducts the waste to a soil stack, waste stack, or building drain.

Horizontal Pipe: Any pipe or fitting that makes an angle of less than 451 with the horizontal. See Figure
1.2.37

Commmnent: The sizing of offsets in drainage stacks varies depending on whether the offset is horizontal or
vertical. See Section 11.6.

Figure 1.2.37
THE DEFINITION OF "HORIZONTAL PIPE"

Hot Water: Potable water that is heated to a required temperature for its intended use.

House Drain: See "Building Drain"

House Sewer: See "Building Sewer"

House Trap: See "Building Trap"

Indirect Connection (Waste): The introduction of waste into the drainage system by means of an air gap or air
break.

Indirect Waste Pipe: A waste pipe that does not connect directly with the drainage system, but which dis-
charges into the drainage system through an air break or air gap into a trap, fixture, receptor or interceptor. See
Figure 1.2.38
 Figure 1.2.38
INDIRECT WASTE PIPES

Individual Vent: See "Vent, Individual"

Industrial Wastes: Liquid or liquid-borne wastes resulting from the processes employed in industrial and
commercial establishments.

Comment: Industrial wastes must not be discharged into public sewers if they will damage the sewer or
interfere with the operation of the sewage treatment plant.

Insanitary: Contrary to sanitary principles - injurious to health.

Installed: Altered, changed or a new installation .

Interceptor: A device designed and installed so as to separate and retain deleterious, hazardous, or undesirable
matter from normal wastes while permitting normal sewage or liquid wastes to discharge into the drainage system
by gravity. See Figure 1.2.39

Comment: Interceptors include grease interceptors, oil/waterseparators, sand interceptors, solids

interceptors, and neutralizing or dilution tanks.

Figure 1.2.39
AN INTERCEPTOR
Invert: The lowest portion of the inside of a horizontal pipe. See Figure 1.2.40

Comment: Invert elevations are used to design and install drainage piping at the required grade or
slope.

Figure 1.2.40
THE INVERT OF A DRAIN PIPE

Leaching Well or Pit: A pit or receptor having porous walls that permit the liquid contents to seep into the ground.
See Figure 1.2.41

Comment: Leeching wells or pits are used to disperse the effluent from septic tanks into the ground for
secondarytreaunent. They may supplement or be used in lieu of absorption trenches. Leaching wells or
pits can only be used where there is very deep soil of good permeability and considerable depth to
groundwater.
 Figure 1.2.41
A LEACHING OR SEEPAGE WELL OR PIT

Leader: An exterior vertical drainage pipe for conveying storm water from roof or gutter drains. See Figure
1.2.42

Comment: A stormwater drainpipe on the interior of a building is a conductor.

Figure 1.2.42
A STORMWATER LEADER
Load Factor: The percentage of the total connected fixture unit flow which is likely to occur at any point in the
drainage system.

Local Ventilating Pipe: A pipe on the fixture side of the trap through which vapor or foul air is removed from a
fixture. See Figure 1.2.43

Comment: Local vent piping may be required for clinical sinks, bedpan washers, and sterilizers. Local
vents for sterilizers must not be connected to local vents for clinical sinks and bedpan washers. Refer to
Section 14.9 for clinical sinks and bedpan washers. Refer to Section 14.10 for sterilizers.

Figure 1.2.43
A STERILIZER LOCAL VENTILATING PIPE

Loop Vent: See "Vent, Loop"

Low Hazard: See "Hazard, Low"

Macerating Toilet System: A system that collects drainage from a single water closet, lavatory and/or bathtub
located in the same room. It consists of a receiving container, a grinder pump, and associated level controls. The system
pumps shredded or macerated sewage up to a point of discharge

Main: The principal pipe artery to which branches may be connected.

Main Sewer: See "Public Sewer"

May: The word "may" is a permissive term.

Medical Gas System: The complete system used to convey medical gases for direct application from central
supply systems (bulk tanks, manifolds and medical air compressors) through piping networks with pressure and
operating controls, alarm warning systems, etc., and extending to station outlet valves at use points.

Comment: Medical gas systems must comply with NFPA 99 Standard for Health Care Facilities or
NFPA 99C- Gas and Vacuum Systems. NFPA 99 is the parent document for NFPA 99C. NFPA 99
addresses all safety aspects of health care facilities, whereas NFPA 99C limits itself to the medical gas
and vacuum portions of NFPA 99.

Medical Vacuum Systems: A system consisting of central-vacuum-producing equipment with pressure and
operating controls, shut-off valves, alarm warning systems, gauges and a network of piping extending to and
terminating with suitable station inlets to locations where suction may be required.
 Comment: Refer to the comment under Medical Gas System.

Multiple Dwelling: A building containing two or more dwelling units.

Non-Health Hazard: In backflow prevention, an actual or potential threat to the physical properties or potability
of the water supply to the plumbing system, but which would not constitute a health or system hazard.

Non-potable Water: Water not safe for drinking or for personal or culinary use.

Nominal Size: A standard expression in inches and fractions thereof to denote equal. Existing in name only and
not in actuality.

Nuisance: Public nuisance at common law or in equity jurisprudence; whatever is dangerous to human life or
detrimental to health; whatever building, structure, or premises is not sufficiently ventilated, sewered, drained,
cleaned, or lighted in reference to its intended or actual use; and whatever renders the air, human food, drink or
water supply unwholesome.

Offset: A combination of elbows or bends that brings one section of the pipe out of line but into a line parallel
with the other section. See Figure 1.2.44 - Parts A and B for single offsets

Comment: Offsets can occur in vertical and horizontal piping. Offsets can consist of 90-degree, 45-
degree, or other angle fittings. Single offsets have one change of alignment

Figure 1.2.44
OFFSETS IN PIPING

Offset, Double: Two offsets installed in succession or series in a continuous pipe. See Figure 1.2.44 Parts
E and F

I Comment: Double offsets have two offsets, both away from the original alignment of the pipe.
Offset, Return: A double offset installed so as to return the pipe to its original alignment. See Figure 1.2.44
Parts C and D

Comment: Return offsets have two offsets, both in different directions. The second offset does not
necessarily bring the pipeline back into exact alignment with the first. The alignment of the piping on
both sides of the offset is not necessarily exactly the same laterally.

Oil Interceptor: See "Interceptor"

Person: A natural person, his heirs, executors, administrators or assigns; including a firm, partnership or corpora-
tion, its or their successors or assigns. Singular includes plural; male includes female.
Pitch: See "Grade"

Plenum: An enclosed portion of the building structure, other than an occupiable space being conditioned, that is
designed to allow air movement, and thereby serve as part of an air distribution system.

Plumbing
The practice, materials, and fixtures within or adjacent to any building structure or conveyance, used in the
installation, maintenance, extension, alteration and removal of any piping, plumbing fixtures, plumbing appliances,
and plumbing appurtenances in connection with any of the following:

a.. Sanitary drainage system and its related vent system,

b. Storm water drainage facilities,
c. Public or private potable water supply systems,
d. The initial connection to a potable water supply upstream of any required backflow prevention
devices and the final connection that discharges indirectly into a public or private disposal system,
e. Medical gas and medical vacuum systems,
f. Indirect waste piping including refrigeration and air conditioning drainage,
g. Liquid waste or sewage, and water supply, of any premises to their connection with an approved
water supply system or to an acceptable disposal facility.
NOTE: The following are excluded from the definition:
1. All piping, equipment ormaterial used exclusively for environmental control.
2. Piping used for the incorporation of liquids or gases into any product or process for use in the
manufacturing or storage of any product, including product development.
3. Piping used for the installation, alteration, repair or removal of automatic sprinkler systems
installed for fire protection only.
4. The related appurtenances or standpipes connected to automatic sprinkler systems or overhead or
underground fire lines beginning at a point where water is used exclusively for fire protection.
5. Piping used for lawn sprinkler systems downstream from backflow prevention devices.

Plumbing Appliance: Any one of a special class of plumbing fixture that is intended to perform a special
plumbing function. Its operation and/or control may be dependent upon one or more energized components, such
as motors, controls, heating elements, or pressure or temperature-sensing elements. Such fixtures may operate
automatically through one or more of the following actions: a time cycle, a temperature range, a pressure range, a
measured volume or weight; or the fixture may be manually adjusted or controlled by the user or operator.

Comment: Plumbing appliances include clothes washers, dishwashers, food-waste-disposal and grinder
units, water heaters, water softeners, and similar devices. Refer to Table 3.1.3 Part V11 for fisted
appliances.

Plumbing Appurtenance: A manufactured device, a prefabricated assembly, or an on-the-job assembly of

component parts, that is an adjunct to the basic piping system and plumbing fixtures. An appurtenance demands
no additional water supply, nor does it add any discharge load to a fixture or to the drainage system. It is pre-
sumed that an appurtenance performs some useful function in the operation, maintenance, servicing, economy, or
safety of the plumbing system.

Comment: Some examples ofplumbing appurtenances are water filters, backflow prevention devices,
backwater valves, interceptors, separators, and neutralizing or dilution tanks. Refer to Table 3.1.3 Part
VIII for listed appurtenances. Plumbing appurtenances do not change the load on the water supply or
drainage system.
Plumbing Fixture: A receptacle or device connected to the water distribution system of the premises, and
demands a supply of water there from; or discharges used water, liquid-borne waste materials, or sewage either
directly or indirectly to the drainage system of the premises; or which requires both a water supply connection and
a discharge. to the drainage system of the premises. Plumbing appliances as a special class of fixture are further
defined.

Comment: Plumbing fixtures include water closets, urinals, bidets, lavatories, bathtubs, whirlpool baths,
showers, sinks, floor drains, and receptors. Refer to Table 3.1.3 Part Vfor listed plumbing fixtures.

Plumbing Inspector: See "Authority Having Jurisdiction"

Plumbing System: Includes the water supply and distribution pipes, plumbing fixtures and traps; soil, waste and
vent pipes; sanitary and storm drains and building sewers; including their respective connections, devices and
appurtenances to an approved point of disposal.

Pollution "Potable Water": An impairment of the quality of the potable water to a degree that does not create
a hazard to the public health but that does adversely and unreasonably affect the aesthetic qualities of such
potable water for domestic use. (See the definition of "contamination").

Pool: See "Swimming Pool"

Potable Water: Water free from impurities present in amounts sufficient to cause disease or harmful physiologi-
cal effects and conforming in its bacteriological and chemical quality to the requirements of the Public Health
Service Drinking Water Standards or the regulations of the public health authority having jurisdiction.

Powder Room: See "Half-Bath"

Pressure Assisted Water Closet: See "Water Closet, Pressure Assisted"

Pressure Balancing Valve: A mixing valve which senses incoming hot and cold water pressures and compen-
sates for fluctuations in either to stabilize its outlet temperature.

Comment: Pressure balancing control valves for individual bathing facilities must comply with ANSI/
ASSE 1016, Type P.

Private Sewage Disposal System: A system for disposal of domestic sewage by means of a septic tank or
mechanical treatment, designed for use apart from a public sewer to serve a single establishment or building. See
Chapter 16

Private Sewer: A sewer not directly controlled by public authority.

Comment: A private sewer connects a building to a private sewage disposal system.

Private Use, Public Use:

Private Use Plumbing facilities for the private and restricted use of one or more individuals in dwelling units
(including hotel and motel guest rooms), and other plumbing facilities that are not intended for public use. Refer to
the definition of "Public Use".
Public Use : Plumbing facilities intended for the unrestricted use of more than one individual (including employ-
ees) in assembly occupancies, business occupancies, public buildings, transportation facilities, schools and other
educational facilities, office buildings, restaurants, bars, other food service facilities, mercantile facilities, manufac-
turing facilities, military facilities, and other plumbing installations that are not intended for private use. Refer to
the definition of "Private Use".

Private Water Supply: A supply, other than an approved public water supply, which serves one or more build-
ings. See Figure 1.2.46 and Chapter 17

Figure 1.2.46
A TYPICAL PRIVATE WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

Public Sewer: A common sewer directly controlled by public authority.

Comment: This Code does not cover public sewers. The design and construction of public sewers is
regulated by the sewage authority, a public works department, or other Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Public Toilet Room: A toilet room intended to serve the transient public, such as in, but not limited to the
following examples: service stations, train stations, airports, restaurants, and convention halls.

Public Water Main: A water supply pipe for public use controlled by public authority.

Comment: This Code does not cover public water mains. The design and construction of public water
mains is regulated by the water purveyor, a public works department, or other Authority Having Juris-
diction.

Pump Assisted Water Closet: See "Water Closet, Pump Assisted"

Receptor: A fixture or device which receives the discharge from indirect waste pipes. See Figure 1.2.47

Comment: Receptors include floor drains, standpipes, and certain sinks.

 Figure 1.2.47
AN INDIRECT WASTE RECEPTOR

Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventer Assembly: See Reduced Pressure Zone Backflow Preventer
Assembly

Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly: A reduced pressure zone backflow preventer assembly.

Reduced Pressure Zone Backflow Preventer Assembly: A backflow prevention device consisting of two
independently acting check valves, internally force loaded to a normally closed position and separated by an
intermediate chamber (or zone), in which there is an automatic relief means of venting to atmosphere internally
loaded to a normally open position, and with means for testing for tightness of the checks and opening of the relief
means. See Figure 1.2.48

Comment: Reduced pressure principle backflow preventor assemblies provide the highest level of
protection against backpressure backflow. The shutoff valves on these assemblies are resiliently seated
to assure tight close-off for testing. Provisions must be made to drain any discharge from the relief vent
outlet, which may occur due to normal variations in system pressure.

Figure 1.2.48
A REDUCED PRESSURE BACKFLOW PREVENTER ASSEMBLY

Relief Vent: See "Vent, Relief'

Return Offset: See "Offset, Return"

Revent Pipe: See "Vent, Individual"

Rim: An unobstructed open edge of a fixture. See Figure 1.2.30

Comment: The flood level rim of a fixture or appliance is the level from which it will overflow if its drain
outlet is closed or blocked.

Riser: A water supply pipe that extends vertically one full story or more to convey water to branches or to a
group of fixtures. See Figure 1.2.49

Comment: The term "riser" refers to vertical water supply piping serving one or more fixtures in
buildings having one or more story heights.

Figure 1.2.49
A WATER SUPPLY RISER

Roof Drain: A drain installed to receive water collecting on the surface of a roof and to discharge it into a leader
or a conductor. See Figure 1.2.50

Comment: Roof drains include flat deck drains and scupper drains.

Figure 1.2.50
A GENERAL PURPOSE ROOF DRAIN

Roughing-in: The installation of all parts of the plumbing system that can be completed prior to the installation of
ifxtures. This includes drainage, water supply, and vent piping, and the necessary fixture supports, or any fixtures
that are built into the structure.
Safe Waste: See "Indirect Waste Pipe"

Sand Filter: A treatment device or structure, constructed above or below the surface of the ground, for removing
solid or colloidal material of a type that cannot be removed by sedimentation, from septic tank effluent. See
Figure 1.2.51 and Section 16.12

Comment #1: Sand filters provide additional treatment of septic tank effluent. They are used where the
soil depth is shallow and cannot provide sufficient secondary treatment of the effluent.

Comment #2: Sand interceptors (or sand traps) are associated with oiUwater separators in Chapter 6.

Figure 1.2.51
A SAND FILTER FOR SEPTIC TANK EFFLUENT

Sand Interceptor: See "Interceptor" See Section 6.4

Comment: Sand interceptors (or sand traps) are associated with oiUwater separators in Chapter 6. Sand
filters are associated with the effluent from septic tanks in Chapter 16.

Sand Trap: See "Interceptor"

Comment: The term "sand trap" is used interchangeably with "sand interceptor."

Sanitary Sewer: A sewer that carries sewage and excludes storm, surface and ground water.

SDR: An abbreviation for "standard dimensional ratio" that relates to a specific ratio of the average specified
outside diameter to the minimum'wall thickness for outside controlled diameter plastic pipe-

Seepage Well or Pit: See "Leaching Well"

Septic Tank: A watertight receptacle that receives the discharge of a building sanitary drainage system or part
thereof; and that is designed and constructed so as to separate solids from the liquid, digest organic matter through
a period of detention, and allow the liquids to discharge into the soil outside of the tank through a system of open
joint or perforated piping, or a seepage'pit. See Figure 1.2.52 and Section 16.6

Comment: Figure J.2.52 shows baffles at the inlet and outlet connections with two access covers.
Figure 76.6.6 shows 6" long drop pipes on the inlet and outlet connections with cleanouts and a single
access cover. Both arrangements perform the same functions and either arrangement is acceptable.
 Figure 1.2.52
A TYPICAL SEPTIC TANK

Service Sink: A sink or receptor intended for custodial use that is capable of being used to fill and empty a
janitor's bucket. Included are mop basins, laundry sinks, utility sinks, and similar fixtures. (See Table 7.21. 1)

Sewage: Liquid containing human waste (including fecal matter) and/or animal, vegetable, or chemical waste
matter in suspension or solution_

Sewage Ejector, Pneumatic Type: A unit that uses compressed air to discharge and lift sewage to a gravity
sewage system. See Sections 11.7 and 12.14.3

Sewage Pump or Pump-Type Ejector: A non-clog or grinder-type sewage pump or ejector. Sewage pumps
and pump-type ejectors are either the submersible or vertical type. See Figure 1.2.54 and Section 11.7

Comment: Figure 1.2.54 shows a pedestal-type sewage pump. Sewage pumps can also be submersible
pumps or drypit centrifugal pumps.

Figure 1.2.54
A PEDESTAL TYPE SEWAGE PUMP
Shall: "Shall" is a mandatory term.

Shock Arrestor (mechanical device): A device used to absorb the pressure surge (water hammer) that occurs
when water flow is suddenly stopped. See Figure 10.14.7 and Section 10.14.7 for Water Hammer Arres-
tors. Also Figure 1.2.3

Comment: Water hammer arrestors are either the bellows or piston type and are pre-charged with
compressed air or gas. The Code no longer mentions air chambers, which are subject to losing their
initial captive air charge through absorption into the system water.

Short Term: A period of time not more than 30 minutes.

Side Vent: See "Vent, Side"

Sink, Commercial: A sink other than for a domestic application. Commercial sinks include, but are not limited to:

1. pot sinks
2. scullery sinks
3. sinks used in photographic or other processes
4. laboratorysinks

Size of Pipe and Tubing: The nominal inside diameter in inches as indicated in the material standards in Table
3.1.3. If outside diameter is used, the size will be followed by ` o.d.".

Size of Pipe and Tubing, Incremental: Where relative size requirements are mentioned, the following schedule
of sizes is recognized, even if all sizes may not be available commercially: 1/4,3/8, 1/2, 3/4,1, 1-114,1-1/2,2, 2-1/2,
33 3,, 3-11//22,,44,,44-11//22,,55,,6,7,8,10,12,15,18,21,24.

Slip Joint: A connection in drainage piping consisting of a compression nut and compression washer that permits
drainage tubing to be inserted into the joint and secured by tightening the compression nut. Slip joints are typically
used in trap connections for lavatories, sinks, and bathtubs. They permit the trap to be removed for cleaning or
replacement, and to provide access to the drainage piping.

Slope: See "Grade"

Soil Pipe or Soil Stack: Pipes that convey sewage containing fecal matter to the building drain or building sewer.

Special Wastes: Wastes that require special treatment before entry into the normal plumbing system. See
Figures 1.2.55 and 9.4.1. Also Section 9.4

Comment: Figure 1.2.55 shows a neutralizing tank for acid waste using limestone or marble chips.
Figure 9.4.1 shows an automatic neutralizing tank that could treat either acid or caustic wastes, depend-
ing on the neutralizing solution used.
 Figure 1.2.55
A NEUTRALIZING OR DILUTION TANK FOR SPECIAL WASTE

Special Waste Pipe: Pipes which convey special wastes- See Section 3.11 for acceptable piping materials

Stack: A general term for any vertical line including offsets of soil, waste, vent or inside conductor piping. This
does not include vertical fixture and vent branches that do not extend through the roof or that pass through not
more than two stories before being reconnected to the vent stack or stack vent. See Figure 1.2.56, Section
11.5.2, and Table 11.5.1E

Comment. Stacks include soil stacks, waste stacks, vent stacks, and slack vents. See separate definitions.

Figure 1.2.56
A STACK VENT
Stack Group: A group of fixtures located adjacent to the stack so that by means of proper fittings, vents may be
reduced to a minimum. See Section 12.11 for stack venting groups of fixtures

Stack Vent: The extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain connected to the stack.
See Figure 1.2.56

Stack Venting: A method of venting a fixture or fixtures through the soil or waste stack. See Figure 1.2.57
and Section 12.11

Figure 1.2.57
STACK VENTING

Standpipe (indirect waste receptor): A vertical drain pipe that has an open top inlet that provides an air break
or air gap for indirect waste discharge.

Storm Drain: See `Drain, Storm"

Storm Sewer: A sewer used for conveying rainwater, surface water, condensate, cooling water, or similar liquid
wastes.

Subsoil Drain: A drain that collects subsurface or seepage water and conveys it to a place of disposal. See
Figure 1.2.59 and Section 13.1.5 for foundation drains

Comment: Refer to Table 3.8 for acceptable materials for subsoil drains.
 Figure 1.2.59
SUBSOIL DRAIN PIPING

Suction Line: The inlet pipe to a pump on which a negative pressure may exist under design conditions.

Sump: A tank or pit that receives only liquid wastes, located below the elevation of a gravity discharge, that is
emptied by pumping.

Sump, Drainage (sewage): A liquid and air-tight tank that receives sewage and/or liquid waste, located below
the elevation of a gravity drainage system, that is emptied by pumping. See Figure 1.2.54

Sump Pump: A permanently installed mechanical device for removing clear water or liquid waste from a sump.
See Figure 1.2.60

Figure 1.2.60
DIFFERENT TYPES OF SUMP PUMPS
Supports: Devices for supporting and securing pipe, fixtures and equipment. See Chapter 8

Swimming Pool: Any structure, basin, chamber or tank containing a body of water for swimming, diving, or
recreational bathing. See Section 9.1.11

Tempered Water: A mixture of hot and cold water to reach a desired temperature for its intended use.

Thermostatic/Pressure Balancing Valve, Combination: A mixing valve that senses outlet temperature and
incoming hot and cold water pressure and compenstates for fluctuations in incoming hot and cold water tempera-
tures and/or pressures to stabilize its outlet temperatures.

Comment: Combination thermostatic/pressure balancing control valves are used for individual bathing
facilities and must comply with ASSE 1016, Type PT.

Thermostatic (Temperature Control) Valve: A mixing valve that senses outlet temperature and compensates
for fluctuations in incoming hot or cold water temperatures.

Comment: Thermostatic control valves used for individual bathing facilities must comply with ASSE
1016, Type T. Thermostatic control valves for other point-of-use applications should comply with the
appropriate standard.

Toilet Facility: A room or combination of interconnected spaces in other than a dwelling that contains one or
more water closets and associated lavatories, with signage to identify its intended use.

Trap: A fitting or device that provides a liquid seal to prevent the emission of sewer gasses without materially
affecting the flow of sewage or waste water through it. See Figure 1.2.62 and Sections 5.1, 5.2, and 5.3

Figure 1.2.62
ELEMENTS OF A FIXTURE TRAP

Trap Arm: That portion of a fixture drain between a trap and its vent. See Figure 1.2.63 and Section 12.8.1

Comment: Refer to Table 12.8.1 for the maximum allowable length of trap arms to avoid trap siphonage.
 NOTES:
1. The top of the opening to the vent at the end of the trap arm must not be below the weir of the trap.

Figure 1.2.63
THE LENGTH OF A TRAP ARM
Trap Primer: A device or system of piping to maintain a water seal in a trap. See Figures 1.2.64 and 1.2.65.
Also Section 7.16.2

Figure 1.2.64
A FLOW-ACTIVATED TRAP PRIMER

Figure 1.2.65
CONNECTION OF A TRAP PRIMER TO A TRAP
Trap Seal: The maximum vertical depth of liquid that a trap will retain, measured between the crown weir and
the top of the dip of the trap. See Figure 1.2.62 and Section 5.3.2

Vacuum: Any pressure less than that exerted by the atmosphere.

Vacuum Assisted Water Closet: See "Water Closet, Vacuum Assisted"

Vacuum Breaker: See "Backflow Preventer"

Vacuum Breaker, Atmospheric Type: A vacuum breaker that is not designed to be subject to static line
pressure. See Figure 1.2.66

Figure 1.2.66
TYPES OF ATMOSPHERIC VACUUM BREAKERS

Vacuum Breaker, Pressure Type: A vacuum breaker designed to operate under conditions of static line
pressure. See Figure 1.2.67

Figure 1.2.67
A PRESSURE TYPE VACUUM BREAKER

Vacuum Breaker, Spill-resistant (SVB): A pressure-type vacuum breaker specifically designed to avoid
spillage during operation, consisting of one check valve force-loaded closed and an air inlet vent valve force-loaded
open to atmosphere, positioned downstream of the check valve, and located between and including two tightly
closing shut-off valves and a means for testing.
 Comment. SVB vacuum breakers are spill-resistant, not spill proof.

Vacuum Relief Valve: A device to prevent vacuum in a pressure vessel. See Figure 1.2.69 and Section
10.16.7

Comment: Vacuum relief valves are required on storage-type hot water heaters that are located above
the fixtures that they serve to prevent the tank from being siphoned dry and damaged by dry-firing.

Figure 1.2.69
A VACUUM RELIEF VALVE

Vent, Branch: A vent connecting one or more individual vents with a vent stack or stack vent. See Figure
1.2.70

Figure 1.2.70
A BRANCH VENT

Vent, Circuit: A vent that connects to a horizontal drainage branch and vents from two to eight traps or trapped
fixtures connected in a battery. See Figure 1.2.71

Comment: Circuit vents connect to vent stacks. Loop vents connect to stack vents.
 Figure 1.2.71
A CIRCUIT VENT
Vent, Common: A vent connected at the common connection of two fixture drains and serving as a vent for
both fixtures. See Figure 1.2.72

Figure 1.2.72
A COMMON VENT
Vent, Continuous: A vertical vent that is a continuation of the drain to which it connects. See Figure 1.2.73

Figure 1.2.73
A CONTINUOUS VENT

Vent, Dry: A vent that does not receive the discharge of any sewage or waste.

Vent, Individual: A pipe installed to vent a single fixture drain. See Figure 1.2.74
 Figure 1.2.74
AN INDIVIDUAL VENT

Vent, Loop: A circuit vent that loops back to connect with a stack vent instead of a vent stack. See Figure
1.2.75

Comment: Loop vents connect to stack vents. Circuit vents connect to vent stacks.

Figure 1.2.75
A LOOP VENT

Vent, Relief: An auxiliary vent that permits additional circulation of air in or between a drainage and vent
system. See Figures 123.1, 12.3.2, 12.3.3-A, 12.3.3-8, 12.13.1, 12.15.1, and 12.16.2

Comment: Relief vents are required at points in some vertical drainage stacks, at horizontal offsets in
some drainage stacks, at the base ofsome stacks, and at some battery vented branch connections to
stacks. Refer to Chapter 12.

Vent, Side: A vent connecting to a drain pipe through a fitting at an angle not greater than 45° to the vertical.
See Figure 1.2.76
 Figure 1.2.76
SIDE VENTS

Vent, Sterilizer: A separate pipe or stack, indirectly connected to the building drainage system at the lower
terminal, that receives the vapors from non-pressure sterilizers, or the exhaust vapors from pressure sterilizers, and
conducts the vapors directly to the outer air. Sometimes called vapor, steam, atmosphere or exhaust vent. See
Section 14.11

Vent, Wet: A vent that receives the discharge of wastes from fixtures other than water closets or kitchen sinks.
See Figure 1.2.77. Refer to Section 12.10 for other arrangements of wet venting.

Figure 1.2.77
A WET VENT

Vent, Yoke: A pipe connecting upward from a soil or waste stack to a vent stack for the purpose of equalizing
the pressures in the stacks. See Figure 1.2.78

Comment: A yoke vent is vertical No portion of a yoke vent can be horizontal.

 Figure 1.2.78
A YOKE VENT

Vent Pipe: Part of the vent system.

Vent Stack: A vertical vent pipe that extends through one or more stories and that is intended to provide circula-
tion of air to and from the drainage system. See Figures 1.2.71. and 12.3.1

Vent System: A pipe, or pipes, installed to provide a flow of air to or from a drainage system or to provide a
circulation of air within such system to protect trap seals from siphonage and back pressure. See Figure 1.2.79

Figure 1.2.79
THE DEFINITION OF "VERTICAL PIPE"
Vertical Pipe: Any pipe or fitting that makes an angle of 45° or more with the horizontal. See Figure 1.2.79

Wall Hung Water Closet: A water closet installed in such a way that no part of it touches the floor. See
Figure 1.2.80

Figure 1.2.80
A WALL HUNG WATER CLOSET

Waste: Any remaining liquid, or liquid-borne material or residue intended to be discharged to the drainage system
after any activity or process, but not including any such materials that contain animal or human fecal matter.

Waste Pipe: A pipe that conveys only waste.

Waste Stack, Pipe or Piping: Pipes that convey the discharge from fixtures (other than water closets), appli-
lances, areas, or appurtenances, that do not contain fecal matter.

Water Closet, Pressure Assisted: A low consumption water closet with an air accumulator vessel in the tank
that stores water and air under pressure, using the water supply pressure. When flushed, the air produces a high
velocity jet of water and air that forces the contents out of the bowl.
Water Closet, Pump Assisted: A low consumption water closet with a fractional horsepower pump in the tank
that produces a high velocity jet in the trap way that assists the flushing action.

Water Closet, Vacuum Assisted: A low consumption water closet that uses the falling water level in the tank
to induce a vacuum near the outlet of the trap way that assists the flushing action.

Water Distribution Piping: Piping within the building or on the premises that conveys water from the water-
service pipe to the point of use. See Figure 1.2.81
 Figure 1.2.81
WATER DISTRIBUTION PIPING

Water Lifts: See "Sewage Ejector"

Water Main: A water supply pipe for public use. See "Public Water Main"

Water Outlet: A discharge opening through which water is supplied to a fixture, into the atmosphere (except
into an open tank that is part of the water supply system), to a boiler or heating system, to any devices or equip-
ment requiring water to operate but that are not part of the plumbing system.
Water Riser Pipe: See "Riser"

Water Serving Pipe: The pipe from the water main, or other source of potable water supply, to the water
distribution system of the building served. See Figure 1.2.82 and Section 10.6

Figure 1.2.82
THE WATER SERVICE PIPE IN A PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY

Water Supply System: The water service pipe, the water distribution pipes, and the necessary connecting pipes,
fittings, control valves, and appurtenances in or adjacent to the building or premises.

Water Temperature Control Valve: A valve of the pressure balance, thermostatic mixing, or combination
pressure balance/thermostatic mixing type that is designed to control water temperature to reduce the risk of
scalding.

Wet Vent: See "Vent, Wet"

Whirlpool Bathtub: A plumbing appliance consisting of a bathtub fixture that is equipped and fitted with a
circulation piping system, pump, and other appurtenances and is so designed to accept,. circulate, and discharge
bathtub water upon each use. See Figure 1.2.83

Figure 1.2.83
A WHIRLPOOL BATH
Weir (trap or crown) Discharge overflow of the trap outlet.

Yoke Vent See "Vent, Yoke:

 Chapter -2 of Revised National Plumbing Code of the Philippines

DEFINITIONS
Section 201 – GENERAL

For the purpose of this Code, the following terms shall bear the
meanings indicated in this Chapter.
No attempt is made to define ordinary words, used in accordance with
their established dictionary meanings except where a word has been
used loosely, that it becomes necessary to define its meaning as
adopted in this Code to avoid misunderstanding.
Since the primary purpose is to define terms in general rather than
nouns, the definitions are arranged alphabetically according to the first
word of the term rather than the noun.

Section 202
"'A"
ABS - Acrylonitrile-Butadiene·Styrene
ALLEY - any public space. public park or thoroughfare less than three (3)
meters but not less than two (2) meters in width dedicated or deeded
for public use.
ALTER or ALTERATION - any change, addition or modification in
construction or occupancy.
ACCESSIBLE - when applied to a fixture, connection, appliance or
equipment, shall mean having access thereto, but which may require
prior removal of an access panel, door or similar obstruction. "Readily
accessible" shall mean direct access without the necessity of removing
any panel, door or similar obstruction.
AIRBREAK_ a physical separation. which may be a low inlet into the
indirect waste receptor from the fixture, appliance or device indirectly
connected.
AIR GAP, DRAINAGE - the unobstructed vertical distance through the free
atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe, plumbing fixture,
appliance or appurtenance conveying waste to the flood level rim Of the
receptor.
AIR GAP, WATER DISTRIBUTION- an unobstructed vertical distance through
the free atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet
conveying potable water to the flood-level rim of any tank or fixture.
APPROVED - accepted or acceptable under an applicable specifications or
standard stated or cited in this Code., or accepted as suitable for any
proposed use under procedures and powers of the Administrative
Authority.
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY - an organization primarily established for
purposes of testing to approve standards and approved by the Administrative
Authority.
AUTHORITY, ADMINISTRATIVE - The Administrative Authority including the
Building Official, the Commission, the Board and such other department or
agency established and authorized to administer and enforce the provisions
of Republic Act 13 78 - The Plumbing Code of the Philippines, Presidential
Decree No. 223 as amended by P.D. 657 - creating the Professional
Regulation Commission and prescribing its powers and functions, and Letter
of Instruction No. 1000 - ordering and directing the Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC), the former Ministry of Human Settlements, the
Departments of Foreign Affairs, Education and Culture, Public Works and
Highways, Tourism, Transportation and Communication all SOOT agencies
concerned, to authorize and support PRC Accredited bonafide Professional
Organizations only, and their members to organize, host, sponsor or
represent the Filipino Professionals in national, regional and international
fora, conventions where the concerned professions arc involved; and further
orders and directs that all government agencies and instrumentalities shall
give priority to bonafide members of the accredited professional
organizations in the hiring of its employees and engagement of professional
services.
 Section 203
“B''
BACKFLOW- the flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances
into the distributing pipes of a potable supply of water from any source
other than from its intended source.
BACKFLOW CONNECTION - condition or any arrangement whereby
reverse flow can occur.
BACKPRESSURE BACKFLOW - occurs due to an increased reverse
pressure above the supply pressure. This may be due to pumps, boilers,
gravity or other sources of pressure.
BACKFLOW PREVENTER - device or means to prevent flow of liquid
from returning to the source of supply. Also called vacuum breaker .
BACK- SIPHONAGE - the flowing back of used, contaminated or polluted
water from a plumbing fixture or vessel into a water supply pipe due to
a negative pressure in such pipe. See backflow.
BACKWATER VALVE - a device installed in a drainage system to prevent
reverse flow .
BACKVENT PIPE - the part of a vent line, which connects directly with
an individual trap underneath or behind the fixture and extends to the
branch or main vent pipe at any point higher than the fixture or fixture
traps it serves. This is sometimes called an individual vent. See Revent
pipe.
BALL COCK - a valve opened and closed by the fall and rise, respectively
of an attached ball floating on the surface of the liquid.
BALL JOINT- a type of pipe connection in which a ball-shaped end is
held in a cuplike shell and allows movements in every direction.
BATHROOM-a room equipped with a shower stall or bathtub.
BATTERY OF FIXTURES- any of two or more similar adjacent fixtures
which discharge into a common horizontal soil or waste branch.
BELL OR HUB - that portion of a pipe which, for a short distance, is
sufficiently enlarged to receive the end of another pipe of the same
diameter for the purpose of making it caulked or push-on joint.
BENDING PIN (or IRON)- a tool for straightening or bending lead pipe.
BIBB- synonymous with faucet, cock, tap, plug, etc. The word "faucet" is
preferred.
BIDET - A plumbing fixtures used for washing the middle private part of
the body, especially the genitals. Also called a "sitz" bath.
BLANK FLANGE- A pipe flange that is not drilled for bolt holes.
BLIND FLANGE- a flange that closes the end of a pipe. There is no
opening for the passage of liquid or gas.
BLOW·OFF - a controlled outlet of a pipeline to discharge liquid or
detritus.
BOARD - the Licensure Board for Master Plumbers
BOILER BLOW-OFF- a valved outlet of a boiler that permits discharge of
accumulated sediment.
BRANCH - any part of the piping system other than a main, riser or stack

BRANCH INTERVAL- a length of soil or waste stack corresponding in

general to a story height, but in no case less than 2.43 meters within
which the horizontal branches from one floor or story of a building are
connected to the stack
BRANCH, FIXTURE- see Fixture Branch
BRANCH, HORIZONTAL- see Horizontal Branch
BRANCH VENT- a horizontal vent connecting one or more individual
vertical back vents with the vent stack or stack vent.
BRAZED JOINT - any joint obtained by joining of metal parts with
alloys which melt at temperatures higher than 449 degrees centigrade,
but lower than the melting temperature of the parts to be joined.
B & S- Brown and Sharpe (Specification) or Bell and Spigot (Ends of
Pipes)
BUILDING -a structure built, erected and framed of component
structural parts designed for the housing, shelter, enclosure or support
of persons, animals or property of any kind.
BUILDING DRAIN - that part of the lowest horizontal piping of a
drainage system which receives the discharge from soil, waste and
other drainage pipes inside the walls of the building and conveys it to
the building sewer beginning 0.6 meter outside the building wall.
BUILDING SEWER - that part of the horizontal piping of a drainage
system which starts from the end of the building drain and which
receives the discharge of the building drain and conveys it to a public
sewer, private sewer, individual sewage disposal system or other point
of disposal.
BUILDING SUBDRAIN - that portion of an underground system, which
cannot drain by gravity into the building sewer.
BUILDING SUPPLY - the pipe carrying potable water from the water
meter or other source of water supply to a building or other point of
use or distribution on the lot. Building supply shall also mean water
service connection.
Section 204
"C"
CAULKING - plugging an opening with oakum, lead or other materials
that are pounded into the annular space. Also, the material pounded
into the annular opening .
CAP- a fitting, screwed or caulked over the end of a pipe for closing the
pipe end.
CATCH BASIN - a receptacle in which liquids are retained for a sufficient
period of time to allow settleable material to deposit.
CERTIFIED BACKFLOW ASSEMBLY TESTER - a person who has shown
competence to test and maintain backflow assemblies to the
satisfaction of the Administrative Authority having jurisdiction.
CESSPOOL - a non-watertight lined excavation in the ground which
receives the discharge of a sanitary drainage system or part thereof,
designed to retain the organic matter and solids discharging there from,
0ut permitting the liquid to seep through the bottom and sides of the
cesspool.
CHASE-a vertical shaft for installation of different pipe stacks.
CHECK VALVE- a valve that automatically closes to prevent the flow of
liquid or gas in a reverse direction.
CIRCUIT VENT - a group vent pipe which starts in front of the extreme
fixture connection on a horizontal branch and connects to the vent stack.
See loop vent, also.
CLARIFIER- Sec Interceptor.
CODE -The word ''Code" or "this Code," when used alone, shall mean
these regulations, subsequent amendments thereto or any emergency
rule or regulation which the Administrative Authority having jurisdiction
may lawfully adopt .
COMMON VENT- see unit vent and dual vent.
COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT SYSTEM - a specially designed system
of waste piping embodying the horizontal wet venting of one or more
sinks or floor drains by means of a common horizontal waste and vent
pipe. adequately sized to provide free movement of air above the flow
line of the drain.
COMBUSTIBLE CONSTRUCTION - a structure which any part of its
structural framework will ignite and burn at a temperature of 756
degrees centigrade or less.
COMMISSION -The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
COMMON - that part of a plumbing system designed and installed to
serve more than one ( 1) appliance, fixture, building or system.
CONFINED SPACE- a room or space having a volume less than I4 cu. m.
with 250 kilogram calorie of the aggregate input rating of all fuel burning
appliances installed in that space.
CONTAMINATION - an impairment of the quality of the potable water
which creates an actual hazard to the public health through poisoning or
spread of disease by sewage, industrial fluids or waste. Also, defined as
High Hazard.
CONTINUOUS VENT - a continuous vent is vertical vent that is a
continuation of the drain to which the vent connects.
CONTINUOUS WASTE - a drain connecting the compartments of a set
of fixtures to a trap or connecting other permitted fixtures to a common
trap.
CONDUCTOR OR DOWNSPOUT-a vertical pipe to convey rainwater .
CORPORATION COCK - a stop valve placed at the connection of the
water service pipe to the water main.
COURT- an open, unoccupied space, bounded on two (2) or more sides
by the walls of the building. An inner court is a court entirely within the
exterior walls of a building. All other courts are outer courts.
CRITICAL LEVEL- C-L or C/L marking on a backflow prevention device or
vacuum breaker is a point conforming to approved standards and
established by the testing laboratory (usually stamped on the device by
the manufacturer) which determines the minimum elevation above the
flood level rim of the fixture or receptacle served where the device may
be installed. When a backflow prevention device does not bear a critical
level marking, the bottom of the vacuum breaker, combination valve or
the bottom of any such approved device shall constitute the critical
level.
CROSS- CONNECTION- any connection or arrangement, physical or
otherwise, between a potable water supply system and any plumbing
fixture or any tank. receptacle, equipment or device, through which
enables non-potable, used, unclean, polluted, contaminated water or
other substances to enter into any part of such potable water system
under any condition.
 Section 205
"D"
DEAD-END - the extended portion of a pipe that is closed at one end to
which no connections arc made on the extended portion, thus permitting
the stagnation of liquid or air therein.
DEPARTMENT HAVING JURISDICTION - the Administrative Authority and
includes any other law enforcement agency concerned by any provision
of this Code, whether Such agency is specifically named or not.
DEVELOPED LENGTH - the length of a pipe along its centerline and
fittings.
DIAMETER - unless specifically stated, the term "diameter'' is the
nominal
diameter as designated commercially. I. D. denotes inside diameter of
pipe and O.D. denotes outside diameter of tube.
DOMESTIC SEWAGE- the liquid and water-home wastes derived from
the ordinary living processes, free from industrial wastes and of such
character that permit satisfactory disposal without special treatment. It is
discharged into the public sewer or into a private sewage disposal
system.
DOUBLE-BEND FITTING - a pipe fitting with adjacent reverse bends and
shaped like the letter "S''
DOUBLE OFFSET- two offsets in succession or in series such that the
centerlines of the outside ends are in the same straight line .
DOWNSPOUT -the vertical portion of a rainwater conductor .
DRAIN - a pipe, which carries ground and surface waters, storm water or
wastewater into a building drainage system .
DRAINAGE SYSTEM - includes all the piping within public or private
premises which convey sewage or other liquid wastes to a legal point of
disposal but does not include the mains of a public sewer system or a
public sewage treatment or disposal plant.
DRY VENT - a vent that does not carry liquid or water-borne wastes.
DUAL VENT see Unit Vent.
DURHAM SYSTEM- a term used to describe soil or waste system where
all piping are of threaded pipe, tubing or other such rigid construction
using recessed drainage fittings to correspond to the types of piping.

Section 206
"E"
EFFECTIVE OPENING -is the minimum cross-sectional area at the point
of water supply discharge measured or expressed in terms of: ( 1)
diameter of a circle; (2) if the opening is not circular, the diameter of a
circle of equivalent cross-sectional area. (This is applicable also to air gap
installation.)
EXISTING WORK - the on-going installation of the plumbing system or
any part thereof which has been installed prior to the affectivity of this
Code.
Section 207
“F”
FAMILY - one person living alone or a group Jiving together, whether
related to each other by birth or not.
FAUCET- a valve located at the end of a water pipe through of which
water can be drawn from or held within the pipe .
FERRULE -a metallic sleeve, caulked or joined to an opening in a pipe,
into which a plug is screwed that can be removed for cleaning or
3xamining the interior of the pipe.
FIXTURE - a receptacle other than a trap attached to a plumbing system
in which water or wastes may be collected or retained for ultimate
discharge into the plumbing system.
FIXTURE BRANCH -the water supply pipe between the fixture supply
pipe and the water-distributing pipe .
FIXTURE DRAIN - the drainpipe from the trap of a fixture to the junction
of that drain with any other drainpipe.
FIXTURE SUPPLY - a water supply pipe connecting the fixture with the
fixture branch.
FIXTURE UNIT - is an arbitrary quantity in terms of which the load
producing effects or water requirements on the plumbing system of
different kinds of plumbing fixtures are express in some arbitrarily
chosen scale. One fixture unit is equivalent to a rate of flow at 28.3
liters per minute ( 1 cu. ft./minute).
FLOOD LEVFEL - the level in a fixture at which water begins to overflow
over the top or rim of the fixture.
FLOOD LEVEL RIM -is the top edge of a receptacle from where water
overflows.
FLOODED - a fixture is flooded when the liquid therein rises to the flood
level rim.
FLOOR AREA - the area included within surrounding walls of a building
(or portion thereof), exclusive of vent shafts and courts, a tank located
above or integral with water closet, urinal or similar fixtures for flushing
or removing excrements in the fixture.
FLUSH VALVE - is a device located at the bottom of the tank for the
purpose of flushing waster closet and similar fixtures.
FLUSHOMETER TANK- is integrated within an air accumulator vessel
which is designed to discharge a predetermined quantity of water into
fixtures for flushing purposes.
FLUSHOMETER VALVE- is a device, which discharges a predetermined
quantity of water into fixtures for flushing purposes and is actuated by
direct water pressure.
Section 208
''G"
GATE VALVE- a valve in which the flow of water is cut off by means
of a circular disc fitted against machine-smoothed faces, at right angles
to the direction of flow. The disk is raised or lowered by means of a
threaded stern connected to the handle of the valve. The opening in
the valve is usually as large as the full bore of the pipe.
GLOBE VALVE-a valve in which the flow of fluid is cut off by means of a
circular disc that fits over and against the horizontal valve seat. The
movement of the plane of disc is parallel to the normal direction of flow
of water through the orifice resulting to a tortuous passage which offers
a high pressure loss.
GOOSENECK - a return bend of small-sized pipe, one end of which is
about 30 cm. long and the other end is about 7. 5 cm. long. It is
commonly used as a faucet for a pantry sink. Also, the term means the
flexible tubing connection between a service pipe and a water main.
GRADE - is the slope or fall of a line of pipe with reference to a horizontal
plane. In drainage, it is usually expressed as the fall in centimeters per
meter or percentage slope of pipe.
GREASE INTERCEPTOR - an interceptor of at least 3 cubic meters capacity
to serve one or more fixtures and which is remotely located.
GREASE TRAP - a device designed to retain grease from one to a
maximum of tour fixtures .
GROUND WATER - the water that stands in or passes through the ground
GROUP VENT- a branch vent that performs its functions for two (2) or
more traps.
Section 209
“H”
HANGERS - see Supports.
HEIGHT OF BUILDING - the vertical distance from the "Grade Line" to
the highest point of the coping of a flat roof or to the top line of
measured roof or to the average height of the highest gable of a pitch or
hip-roof.
HIGH HAZARD - see Contamination.
HORIZONTAL BRANCH - is a drain pipe extending laterally from a soil or
waste stack or building drain with or without vertical sections or
branches, which receives the discharge from one or more fixture drains
and conducts it to the soil or waste stack or to the building drain.
HORIZONTAL PIPE - is any pipe or fitting installed in a horizontal
position or which forms an angle of not more than forty-five (45)
degrees with the horizontal plane.
HOUSE DRAIN- is that part of the lowest horizontal piping of a
plumbing
system which receives the discharges from soil, waste and other
drainage pipes inside of a building and conveys it to the house sewer
outside of the building.
HOUSE SEWER- is that part of a plumbing system extending from the
house drain at a point 0.60 meters from the outside face of the
foundation wall of a building to the junction with the street sewer or to
any point of discharge, and conveying the drainage of one building site.
HOUSE STORM SEWER- is the pipeline from the building to the public
or street storm drainage system.
HUBLESS PIPES - are cast iron soil pipes with plain ends connected
together with bolted stainless steel bands and neoprene gaskets.
Section 210
''l"
INDIRECT WASTE PIPE - is a pipe that does not connect directly with
the drainage system but conveys liquid wastes by discharging into a
plumbing fixture, interceptor or receptacle directly connected to the
drainage system .
INDIVIDUAL VENT- is a pipe installed to vent a fixture trap and which
collects with the vent system above the fixture se1ved or terminates in
the open air.
INDUSTRIAL WASTE - any and all liquid or water-borne waste from
industrial or commercial processes, except domestic sewage.
I.P.S. - means Iron Pipe Size.
INSANITARY -a condition contrary to sanitary principles or injurious to
Health Conditions where the word "insanitary" shall apply include the
following:
1.Any trap which does not maintain a proper trap seal;
2.Any opening in a drainage system. except where lawful, which is not
provided with an approved water-sealed trap;
3.Any plumbing fixture or other waste-discharging receptacle or device.
Not supplied with water sufficient to flush it and maintain it in a clean
condition;
4.Any defective fixture, trap, pipe or fitting;
5.Any trap, except where exempted in this Code, directly connected to a
drainage system, the seal of which is not protected against siphonage
and backpressure by a vent pipes
6.Any connection, cross-connection, construction or condition,
temporary or permanent, which permit or make possible, by any means
whatsoever, for any unapproved foreign matter to enter into a water
distribution system used for domestic purposes; and
7.The foregoing enumeration of conditions which the term "insanitary"
applies, shall not preclude the application of that term to conditions
that are, in fact, insanitary.
INTERCEPTOR (CLARIFIER) - is a device designed and installed to
separate and retain deleterious, hazardous or undesirable matters from
normal wastes and permits normal sewage or liquid wastes to discharge
into the disposal terminal by gravity.
INVERT - The lowest portion of the interior part of any pipe or conduit
that is not vertical.
Section :Z 11
"J"
JURISDICTION - the Administrative Authority under the Department of
Health, the Department of Public Works & Highways, the Department of
Interior and Local Government, the City Mayors of Chartered Cities,
Environmental Management Bureau (D.E.N.R) and other government:
entities that regulate the practice of Registered & Licensed Master
Plumbers.
 Section 212
"K"
No Definitions:
Section 213
“L"
LABELED - equipment or materials bearing a label of a listing agency.
AH labels shall be embossed, stamped or indelibly marked with stickers,
glued on the finished product indicating the weight, specifications and
logo of the manufacturer.
LATERAL - in plumbing, a secondary pipeline. In sewerage, a common
sewer to which no other branch sewer is connected. It receives sewage
from building sewer service connections only.
LATRINE - a water closet consisting of a continuous trough containing
water. The trough extends under two or more adjacent seats.
Prohibited by health authorities for permanent installations.
LAVATORY - a fixture designed for the washing of the hands or face.
Sometimes called a wash basin.
LEACHING CESSPOOL- a cesspool that is not watertight.
LEADER - (See Conductor) - a pipe connected from building gutter to
the downspout or conductor.
LENGTH OF PIPE - is measured along its centerline.
LIQUID WASTE - is the discharge from any fixture, appliance or
appurtenance in connection with a plumbing system which does not
receive fecal matter.
LISTED - equipment or materials included in a LIST published by a listing
agency that maintain periodic inspection on current production of
listed equipment or materials and whose listing state either that the
equipment or materials complied with approved standards or have
been tested and found suitable for use in specified manners.
LISTING AGENCY - is an agency accepted by the Administrative
Authority in the business of listing nr labelling and which maintains a
periodic inspection program on current produc1ion of listed models,
and makes available a published repot1 of such listing where specific
information is included tint the product has been tested against
approved standards and found safe for use in a specific manner.
LOCAL VENT - a pipe or shaft to convey foul air from a plumbing fixture
or a room to the outer air.
LOOP OR CIRCUIT VENT - a vertical vent connection on a horizontal soil or
waste pipe branch at a point downstream of the last fixture connection
and turning to a horizontal line above the highest overflow level of the
highest fixture connected thereat; the terminus connected to the stack
vent in the case of loop venting or to the vent stack nearby in the case of
circuit venting.
LOT - a single area of land legally recorded or validated by other means
acceptable to the Administrative Authority where a building is situated or
site of any work regulated by this Code, together with the yard, court, and
unoccupied space legally required for the building or works; and which it
owned by or in the lawful possession of the owner of the building or
works.
LOW HAZARD - see Pollution.
Section 214
"M"
MAIN - any system of continuous piping, which is the principal artery of
the system where branches are connected.
MAIN SEWER - see Public Sewer.
MAIN VENT - the principal artery of the venting system to which vent
branches are connected .
MANHOLE - a large opening in a sewer line or part of a plumbing system
constructed with sufficient size for a man to gain access therein for
maintenance purposes and facility for changes of line and/or grade of
pipeline .
MASTER PLUMBER - a person technically and legally qualified and
licensed to practice the profession of Master Plumbing without limitations
in accordance with Republic Act 13 78. having passed the examination
conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission, has received a
Certificate of Registration from the Board of Master Plumbing and
possesses the current license to practice.
MAY-the word "may" is a permissive term.
MOBILE HOME PARK SEWER- that part of the horizontal piping of
sanitary drainage system which measures 0.6 meter downstream from
the last mobile home site and conveys sewage to a public sewer, private
sewer, individual sewage disposal system or other points of disposal.
Section 215
"N”
NAMPAP- National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines.
NUISANCE - includes, but is not limited to the following:
Any public nuisance known in common law or in equity jurisprudence~
Whenever any work regulated by this Code is dangerous to human life
or detrimental to health and property and Inadequate or unsafe water
supply and or sewage disposal system.
Section 216
"0"
OAKUM - hemp or old hemp rope soaked in oil or tar to make it
waterproof.
OCCUPANCY- the purpose for which a building is used or intended to
be used. The term shall also include the building or room housing used.
Change of occupancy is not interpreted to mean change of tenants or
proprietors.
OFFSET - in a line of piping is a combination of elbows or bends, which
brings one section of the pipe out of line but into a line parallel with
the original section.
Section 217
"'P"
PERSON - a natural person, his heirs, executors, administrators or
assigns; and also includes a firm, partnership or corporation, its or their
successors or assigns or agents of any of the aforesaid
PB - Polybutylene. Tube made of plastic material and colored black. The
cross-sectional shape is normally oval and is denoted by its outside
diameter or 0.D. Normally used as water service connection from main
to meter.
PE - Polyethylene. Tube made of plastic material and colored black. The
cross-sectional shape is circular and is denoted by its outside diameter
or O.D.
PIPE - a cylindrical conduit or conductor conforming to the particular
dimensions commonly known as .. pipe size, and is denoted by its
interior diameter or l.D.
PITCH - see Grade .
PLUMBING- the act and technique of installing pipes, fixtures and other
apparatuses in buildings for bringing in the supply, liquids, substances
and/or ingredients and removing them and such water, liquid and other
carried wastes hazardous to health, sanitation, life) property also the
pipes and fixtures after installation i.e., the plumbing system.
PLUMBING APPLIANCE - any one of a special class of device or
equipment intended to perform a special plumbing function. Its
operation and/or control may be dependent upon one or more energy
components, such as motors, controls, heating elements and pressure-
temperature-sensing elements. Such device or equipment may operate
automatically through one or more of the following actions: a time
cycle, a temperature range, a pressure range, a measured volume or
weight or the device or equipment may be manually adjusted or
controlled by the user or operator.
PLUMBING APPURTENANCE - a manufactured device or a prefabricated
assembly or an on-the-job assembly of component parts, and serves as
adjunct to the basic piping system and plumbing fixtures. An
appurtenance demands no additional water supply nor does it add any
discharge load to a fixture or the drainage system. It performs some
useful functions in the operation, maintenance, servicing, economy or
Safety of the plumbing system.
PLUMBING FIRM- a sole proprietorship or corporation composed of
Registered and Licensed Master Plumbers together with allied
professionals, with the Master Plumbers composing the majority of the
membership, incorporators, directors and/or executive officers and
Licensed Master Plumber only render work and services within the
cognizance of a Registered Master Plumber and members of the allied
professions also only render work and services within the cognizance of
their respective professions.
PLUMBING FIXTURES- are approved-type installed receptacles. devices
or appliances supplied with water or receive liquid or liquid-borne wastes
and discharge such wastes into the drainage system to which they may
be directly or indirectly connected. Industrial or commercial tanks, vats
and similar processing equipment are not plumbing fixtures, but may be
connected to or discharged into approved traps or plumbing fixtures as
provided for in this Code.
PLUMBING OFFICIAL - the Administrative Authority or the officer
charged with the administration and enforcement of the National
Plumbing Code, or his regularly authorized deputy.
PLUMBING SYSTEM - includes all potable water supply and distribution
pipes, all plumbing fixtures and traps; all sanitary and storm drainage
systems, vent pipes, roof drains, leaders and downspouts; and all
building drains and sewers, including their respective joints and
connections; devices, receptacles, and appurtenances within the
property water lines in the premises: potable, tap, hot and chilled water
piping potable water treating or using equipment; fuel gas piping; water
heaters and vents for same.
PLUMBING UNIT - a minimum standard quantity of plumbing fixtures
that discharge wastes into a plumbing installation including: one (I) water
meter, one (I) water closet, one (I) lavatory, one ( l) shower head and
drain for a bathtub or shower stall, one ( 1) kitchen sink, one ( 1) Laundry
tray and three ( 3) floor drains and four (4) faucets / hose bibb.
POLLUTION- an impairment of the quality of the water to a degree which
creates hazard to the public health and adversely affects the aesthetic
and potable qualities of waters for domestic use .
POTABLE WATER -- water satisfactory for drinking, culinary and domestic
purposes and meets the requirements of the Philippine National
Standards for Drinking Water.
PRESSURE- the normal force exerted by a homogeneous liquid or gas,
per unit of area on the wall of the container
STATIC PRESSURE -- the pressure existing without any flow
motion.
RESlDUAL PRESSURE -- the pressure available at the fixture or water
outlet; allowance is made for pressure drop due to friction loss, head,
meter and other losses in the system during maximum demand period.
PRIMARY BRANCH - of the building drain is the single sloping drain
from the base of a stack to its junction with the main building drain.
PRIVATE OR PRIVATE USE- In classification of plumbing fixtures,
"private" applies to plumbing fixtures in residences and apartments, to
private bathrooms in hotels and hospital s, to rest rooms in commercial
establishments for restricted use, single fixture or group of single
fixtures and to similar installations where the fixtures are intended for
the use of a family or an individual.
PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM - a septic tank with the effluent
discharging into a subsurface disposal field, into one or more seepage
pits or into a combination of subsurface disposal field and seepage pit
or of such other facilities as may be permitted under the procedures set
forth elsewhere in this Code.
PRIVATE SEWER - a building sewer, which receives the discharge from
more than one building drain and conveys it to a public sewer, private
sewage disposal system, or other points of disposal
PRIVY - an outhouse or structure used for the deposition of excrement.
PRIVY VAULT- a pit beneath a privy where excrement collects .
PUBLIC OR PUBLIC USE - In the classification of plumbing fixtures,
"public" or "public use" shall mean all buildings or structures that are
not defined as private or private use .
PUBLIC SEWER - a common sewer directly controlled by public
authority to which all abutters have equal rights of connections.
PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride. Potable water piping are color-coded BLUE.
Drainpipes are manufactured with toxic components and are color-
coded gray, orange or brown.
 Section 218
"Q"
QUALITY OF MATERIALS- all plumbing fixtures and materials used in any
discharge or plumbing system or pa11s thereof shall be free from defects.
Section 219
“R"
RECEPTOR - an approved plumbing fixture or device of such materials,
shape and capacity to Adequately receive the discharge from indirect
waste pipes, constructed and located to be readily cleaned.
REGULATING EQUIPMENT - include all valves and controls used in
plumbing systems which are accessible.
RELIEF VENT- a vertical vent line, the primary function of which is to
provide additional circulation of air between the drainage and vent
systems or to act as an auxiliary vent on a specially designed system such
as a ''yoke vent" connection between the soil and vent stacks.
REPAIR- the reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing building
for its maintenance. The word "repair" or "repairs" shall not apply to any
change of construction or occupancy.
RETURN BEND - an open return bend usually made up two 90° bends
with inside and outside threads, flanged or welded fittings and applied
also to a one hundred eighty degrees bend in copper tubing.
REVENT PIPE- see back-vent pipe .
RIM - an unobstructed top open edge of a fixture.
RISER - a water supply pipe, which extends vertically to one full story or
more to convey water into pipe branches or plumbing fixtures.
ROUGHING- lN - the installation of all piping and fitting parts of the
plumbing system, which can be completed prior to the installation of
fixtures and accessories. These include sanitary and storm drainage, tap,
hot and chilled water supplies, gas piping, vent piping and the necessary
fixture supports.
 Section 220
"S"
SAND INTERCEPTOR - see Interceptor.
SANITARY SEWAGE- the wastewater containing human excrements and
liquid household waste. Also called domestic sewage.
SANITARY SEWER - a sewer intended to receive sanitary sewage with or
without pre-treated industrial wastes and without the admixture of rain
or ground water.
SEAL- the vertical distance between the dip and the crown weir of a trap.
Also, the water in the trap between the dip and the crown weir .
SECONDARY BRANCH - any branch in a building drain other than the
primary branch.
SEEPAGE PIT- a loosely lined excavation in the ground. which receives
the discharge of a septic tank and designed to permit the effluent from
the septic tank to seep through pit bottom and sides .
SEPTIC TANK- a water-tight receptacle which receives the discharge of a
sanitary plumbing system or part thereof, designed and constructed to
retain solids, digest organic matter through a period of detention and to
allow the liquids to discharge into the soil outside of the tank through a
system of open-jointed sub-surface piping or a seepage pit meeting the
requirements of this Code .
SERVICE PIPE - the pipe from the street water main or other source of
water supply to the building served .
SEWAGE - any wastewater containing animal or vegetable matter in
suspension or solution and may include liquids containing chemicals in
solution .
SEWER- a pipe or conduit for carrying sewage and wastewater .
SEWERAGE OR SEWERAGE WORKS - a comprehensive term,
including all constructions for collection, transportation. pumping.
treatment
and. final disposition of sewage .
SHAFT- a vertical opening through a building for elevators, dumbwaiters,
lights. ventilation or similar purposes.
SIAMESE CONNECTION - a hose fitting with clapper valves for combining
the flow from two or more lines of hose into a single stream. The inlet
fitting of a fire standpipe located above ground level.
SIPHONAGE - a suction created by the flow of liquids m pipes. A pressure
less than atmospheric.
SHALL - the word "shall" denotes mandatory acceptation.
SHIELDED COUPLING- an approved elastomeric sealing gasket with an
approved outer shield and a tightening mechanism.
SINGLE FAMILY DWELLJNG- a building designed as a home by the owner of
such building, and shall be the only dwelling located on a parcel of ground
with the usual accessory building.
SIZE AND TYPE OF TUBING - see Diameter.
SLIP JOINT - an adjustable tubing connection, consisting of a compression
nut, a friction ring, and a compression washer. designed to fit a threaded
adapter fitting or a standard taper pipe thread.
SLOPE - see Grade .
SOIL STACK PIPE - a vertical soil pipe conveying fecal matter and
wastewater.
SOIL PIPE - any pipe, which conveys the discharge of water closet, urinal or
fixtures having similar functions, with or without the discharges from other
fixtures to the building drain or building sewer.
SOLDERED JOINT - a pipe joint obtained by joining metal parts with
metallic mixtures or alloys which melt at a temperature below 427 degrees
centigrade and above 149 degrees centigrade .
SPIGOT - the end of a pipe which fits into a bell. Also a word used
synonymously with faucet.
SPECIAL WASTES - wastes which require some special methods of handling
such as the use of indirect waste piping and receptors; corrosion resistant
piping sand, oil or grease interceptors, condensers or other pre- treatment
facilities.
STACK - the vertical main of a system of soil, waste or vent piping
extending through one or more stories and extended thru the roof
STANDPIPE- a vertical pipe, or a reservoir, into which water is pumped
to give it at a head, classified as:
l. Wet Standpipe - water pressure is maintained at all times
2. Automatic Standpipe System - operates automatically by
opening a hose valve
3. Manually-Operated Standpipe System - remote control device al each
hose station; and
4. Dry Standpipe - having no permanent water inside the pipe.
STORM WATER -that portion of the rainfall or other precipitation which
runs off over the earth surface after a storm .
STOREY - that portion of a building included between the upper surface
of any floor and the upper surface of the floor next above .
SUBSOIL DRAIN - an underground drainpipe that receives only
subsurface or seepage water and convey it to a sump for disposal by
gravity flow or by lift pump.
STACK VENT - the. extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest
horizontal drain connected to the stack. The uppermost end above the
roof is called stack vent through roof (SVTR) .
SUMP - an approved tank or pit which receives sewage or wastewater
and is located below the normal grade of the gravity system and must
be emptied by mechanical means .
SUPPORTS - supports, hangers, anchors, brackets, cradles are devices for
holding and securing pipes and fixtures to walls, ceiling, floors or
structural members.
SURFACE WATER - that portion of rainfall or other precipitation which
runs off over the surface of the ground .
SWIMMING POOL - a water basin used for swimming designed to
accommodate many bathers at a time and properly connected to a
disposal system, fills and draws water supply or provided with approved
water purification and recirculation system.
 Section 221
“T'"
TAILPIECE -the pipe or tubing that connects the outlet of a plumbing
fixture to the trap.
TAPPED TEE - a tee with the branch tapped to receive a threaded pipe or
fittings .
TRAP - a fitting or device designed and constructed to provide, when
properly vented, a liquid seal which prevents the backflow of foul air or
methane gas without materially affecting the flow of sewage or
wastewater through it.
TRAP ARM -that portion of a fixture drain between a trap and the vent.
TRAP SEAL - the maximum vertical depth of liquid that a trap will retain
measured between the crown weir and the top of the dip of the trap.
TUBE - a cylindrical conduit or conductor conforming to the particular
dimensions known as "tube sizes" and denoted by its outside diameter
or O. D.
Section 222
"U"
UNCONFINED SPACE- a room space having a volume equal to at least
1.4 cu . m. of the aggregate input rating of the fuel-burning appliance
installed in that space. Rooms adjacent and open to the space where the
appliance is installed, through openings not furnished with doors, are
considered a part of the unconfined space .
UNIT VENT- an arrangement of venting so installed that one vent pipe
will serve two (2) traps.
Section 223
"V"
VACUUM -an air pressure less than atmospheric. Also, implies siphonage
in piping system.
VACUUM BREAKER- sec Backflow Preventer.
VENT PIPE - a pipe or opening used for ensuring the circulation of air in a
plumbing system and for relieving the negative pressure exerted on trap
seals.
VENT STACK -the vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing
circulation of air to and from any part of the soil, waste of the drainage
system.
VENT SYSTEM - pipes installed to provide flow of air to or from a
drainage system or to provide a circulation of air within such system to
protect traps seals from siphonage and back pressure.
VERTICAL PIPE - any pipe or fitting installed in a vertical position or
which forms an angle of not more than forty-five (45) degrees with the
vertical line.
Section 224
“W"
WASTE - see Liquid Waste and Industrial Waste.
WASTE PIPE - A pipe, which conveys only wastewater or liquid waste,
free of fecal matter.
WATER TREATMENT - a device which conditions or treats water supply to
improve water quality, remove suspended solids by filtration.
WATER- DISTRIBUTING PIPE - a pipe which conveys potable water from
the building supply pipe to the plumbing fixtures and other water
outlets.
WATER MAIN - or street main is the water-supply pipe for public or
community use.
WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM - of a building or premises consists of the water
service pipe, water supply line, water distributing pipe and the
necessary branch pipes, fittings, valves and all appurtenances required
for the supply of potable water.
WET VENT - that portion of a vent pipe through where wastewater also
flows through.
WELDED JOINT OR SEAM -any joint or seam obtained by the joining
of metal parts in a plastic molten state.
WELDER, PIPELINE - a person who specializes in the welding of pipes and
holds a valid certificate of competency from a recognized testing agency,
based on the requirements of the regulating authority.
WYE - a hose connection with two- gated outlets permitting two
connections of the same or smaller coupling diameter to be taken from a
single supply line. Also, a pipe fitting of three branches that form the
letter “ Y “
Section 225
“ X”
No definitions.
Section 226
"Y''
YARD - an open, unoccupied space, other than a court, unobstructed
from the ground to the sky, except where specifically provided in this
code.
YOKE VENT - a pipe connecting upward from a soil or waste stack below
the floor and below horizontal connection to an adjacent vent stack at a
point above the floor and higher than highest spill level of fixtures for
preventing pressure changes in the stacks.
Section 227
“Z”
No definitions