2018

‫دليل كود التمديدات الصحية وشبكات المياه‬

GUIDE TO THE SAUDI
SANITARY CODE
Plumbing 701
GUIDE TO THE SAUDI SANITARY Project Manager: Ali Al-Zaid, Al-Zaid Engineering Consultants
CODE—PLUMBING:
Project Coordinator: Mark A. Johnson
Based on the 2018 Saudi Sanitary
Code—Plumbing (SBC 701) Publications Manager: Anne F. Kerr
Series Editor: Rory Cleveland
Production Technician: Emily Sargent
Cover Design: Ricky Razo

COPYRIGHT © 2021
by SAUDI ARABIA MINISTRY OF MUNICIPAL RURAL AFFAIRS & HOUSING and
INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This publication is a copyrighted work owned by the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Municipal
Rural Affairs & Housing (MOMRA) and the International Code Council, Inc. (“ICC”).
Without advance written permission from the ICC, no part of this publication may
be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including,
without limitation, electronic, optical or mechanical means (by way of example,
and not limitation, photocopying or recording by or in an information storage and
retrieval system). For information on use rights and permissions, please contact:
ICC Publications, 4051 Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, Illinois 60478; phone:
Washington D.C. 202-370-1800: Dubai +9714 5163035
The information contained in this document is believed to be accurate; however, it is
being provided for informational purposes only and is intended for use only as a guide.
Publication of this document by MOMRA and the ICC should not be construed as
MOMRA or the ICC engaging in or rendering engineering, legal or other professional
services. Use of the information contained in this guide should not be considered by
the user as a substitute for the advice of a registered professional engineer, attorney or
other professional. If such advice is required, it should be sought through the services
of a registered professional engineer, licensed attorney or other professional.
Trademarks: “International Code Council,” the “International Code Council” logo, “ICC,”
the “ICC” logo, “International Plumbing Code,” “IPC” and other names and trademarks
appearing in this guide are registered trademarks of the International Code Council,
Inc., and/or its licensors (as applicable), and may not be used without permission.
Errata on various ICC publications may be available at www.iccsafe.org/errata.
First Publication: June 2021
Contents Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
About the Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing (SBC 701) . . . . viii
Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
About the Author . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
About Saudi Arabia Ministry of Municipal
Rural Affairs & Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . x
About the Saudi Building Code
National Committee (SBCNC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . x
About Al-Zaid Engineering Consultants (ZEC) . . . . . . . . . . . xi
About the International Code Council® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii

PART I: CODE ADMINISTRATION AND

ENFORCEMENT 1
Chapter 1: Introduction to Building Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Construction Codes: Scope and Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Saudi Building Code Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
SBC 701 Arrangement and Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Chapter 2: Legal Aspects, Permits and Inspections . . . . . . . . . . 13
Code Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Codes versus standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Standards used in the Saudi Sanitary Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Alternative materials and methods of construction . . . . . . . . . 15
Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Submittal requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Plan review process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Under-floor inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Rough-in inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Final inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Board of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

PART II: LAYOUT AND PLANNING 25

Chapter 3: Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Water and Sewer Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Materials and Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Protection of the Plumbing System and Structure . . . . . . 29
Interceptors and Separators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
General requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Grease interceptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Oil separators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Chemical Wastes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
iii
i v    C o n t e n t s

Chapter 4: Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Minimum Plumbing Fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Hot Water Requirements and Temperature Limiting . . . . 42
Water Heaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Safety devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Relief valve discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Drain pan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Fixture Clearances and Space Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
General Fixture Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Approved fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Water closets, urinals, lavatories and bidets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Bathtubs and showers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Kitchen sinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Food waste disposers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Dishwashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Clothes washers and laundry trays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Shampoo sinks and footbaths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Floor drains, standpipes and other waste receptors . . . . . . . . . 59
Food Preparation and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Protection from contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Indirect waste piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

PART III: DRAIN, WASTE AND VENT 63

Chapter 5: Sanitary Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Connection to Sewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Offsets in Drainage Stacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Drainage below the sewer level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Cleanouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Sizing of drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Joints and connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Chapter 6: Venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Vent connections and grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Vent termination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Sizing of vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Relief vents in multiple-story buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Vents for horizontal stack offsets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Venting of island fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Air admittance valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
 Contents v

Venting Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Common vent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Vertical and horizontal wet venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Circuit venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Combination waste and vent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Waste stack venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Single-stack venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Chapter 7: Storm Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Design Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Roof Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Design and sizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Siphonic roof drain systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Subsoil (Foundation/Footing) Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

PART IV: WATER DISTRIBUTION 113

Chapter 8: Water Piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Joints and connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Testing and disinfection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Design and installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Sizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Chapter 9: Backflow Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Identification of Nonpotable Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Backflow Assemblies, Devices and Methods . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Protection of Potable Water Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Hose connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Carbonated beverage dispensers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Coffee machines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Boilers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Heat exchangers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Fire sprinklers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Lawn irrigation systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Chemical dispensers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Required Testing and Inspection
of Backflow Preventers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
v i    C o n t e n t s

Chapter 10: Water Reuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

General Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Water quality and treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Protection of potable water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
Protection of the water reuse system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
System abandonment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Quiz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Quiz Answers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Preface
P
lumbing design and installation routinely consists of conven-
tional practices, those tried-and-true methods that have per-
formed well over the years and have long been recognized by
the plumbing code. With the introduction of new technology, materials
and methods, improved understanding of safe and sanitary plumbing
systems, and innovation in designs, plumbing technology and the code
that regulates it have become increasingly complex. Such complexity is
necessary to afford flexibility in design and construction. Reference pub-
lications intending to explain the provisions regulating plumbing design
and installation may overwhelm the reader with a broad range of topics
and alternatives, may provide superficial coverage of all requirements or
may focus on the details of a limited number of provisions.
Guide to the Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing (SBC 701): Based on the
Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing (SBC 701) was developed to address the
need for an illustrated text explaining the basics of the plumbing code—
those provisions necessary to understanding the application of the code
to the most commonly encountered plumbing practices. The text is
presented and organized in a user-friendly manner with an emphasis on
technical accuracy and clear non-code language.
Guide to the Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing features full-color illus-
trations to assist the reader in visualizing the application of the code
requirements. Practical examples, simplified tables and highlights of
particularly useful information also aid in understanding the provisions
and determining code compliance. References to the applicable sections
of the codes are helpful in locating the corresponding code language and
related topics in the code. A glossary of code and plumbing terms clari-
fies the meaning of the technical provisions.
Anyone involved in the design, installation or inspection of plumbing
systems will benefit from this book. Beginning and experienced inspec-
tors, plan reviewers, installers, contractors, architects, designers and
students of plumbing technology or related fields will gain understand-
ing and learn the practical application of the frequently used provisions
of SBC 701.
The content of Guide to the Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing is orga-
nized to correspond to the order of construction, beginning with lay-
out and planning, highlighting things one needs to identify during the
design. For instance, the planning phase must consider the minimum
number of required fixtures, the potable water source, interceptors or
separators needed before connecting to the sewer, safety provisions that
may apply to the hot water temperature at its source and fixture outlets.
This is followed by the design of the drain, waste and vent (DWV) system
as well as roof drains and subsoil drainage. Also discussed is the design
and installation of the water supply and distribution system, including
requirements necessary for protecting the potable water by means of
appropriate backflow preventers. In addition, with the increased need
for water conservation, the book will review important details with
regard to water reuse, such as rainwater harvesting and graywater reuse.
vii
v i i i    P r e f a c e

Correct and reasonable application of the code provisions is enhanced

by a basic understanding of the code development process, the scope,
intent and correlation of the family of codes, and the proper administra-
tion of those codes. Such fundamental information is provided in the
opening chapters of this publication. The book also explains the interac-
tion of a plumbing code with other regulations.
This book does not intend to cover all provisions of SBC 701 or all
of the accepted materials and methods of plumbing design and installa-
tion. Focusing in some detail on the most common plumbing provisions
affords an opportunity to fully understand the essentials without explor-
ing every variable and alternative. This is not to say that information
not covered is any less important or valid. This book is best used as a
companion to SBC 701, which should be referenced for more complete
information.
This Guide also includes an added benefit in the form of an annex
chapter that was developed to briefly address, where necessary, some
subjects that needed further elaboration or certain subjects that were
not covered in the body of the Guide. Where specific sections of the
related Saudi Building Code are included in the annex chapter, the code
section number has also been included for easy reference back to the
original code text.

ABOUT THE SAUDI SANITARY CODE—

PLUMBING (SBC 701)
SBC 701 is a comprehensive plumbing code that establishes minimum
regulations for the design and installation of plumbing systems in all
types of construction and occupancies. SBC 701 incorporates prescrip-
tive provisions for conventional design as well as performance criteria
that allow the use of new materials and new design methods. The impact
of the SBC 701 extends well beyond the regulatory arena, as it is used in
a variety of nonregulatory settings, including:
• Voluntary compliance programs such as those promoting sustain-
ability, energy efficiency and disaster resistance.
• The insurance industry, to estimate and manage risk, and as a tool
in underwriting and rate decisions.
• Certification and credentialing of individuals involved in the fields
of building design, construction and safety.
• Certification of building and construction-related products.
• Facilities management.
• “Best practices” benchmarks for designers and builders, including
those who are engaged in projects in jurisdictions that do not
have a formal regulatory system or a governmental enforcement
mechanism.
• College, university and professional school textbooks and curricula.
• Reference works related to building design and construction.
 P r e f a c e    i x

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The author would like to thank the Washington Association of Build-
ing Officials (WABO), who supported his involvement in technical code
development over the past two decades, and both WABO and ICC staff
and members, who have always been a great resource of knowledge and
expertise.
The author would also like to dedicate this book to all building safety
professionals, architects and engineers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
and in the United States for their tireless efforts to design and construct
safe and usable buildings for the citizens of their respective countries.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dave Cantrell has been actively involved in the plumbing industry for
over 45 years, having received his journeyman plumber certification in
the state of Washington in 1978 after completing his apprenticeship.
Over 30 years of his career in the state have been in the public sector,
first with Snohomish County Planning & Development Services, and
then with Public Health—Seattle and King County. He began as a plumb-
ing inspector in Snohomish County, then became a senior inspector; and
later, as a building inspection specialist, he worked in code development
at the local, state and national level. As the chief plumbing inspector for
Seattle and King County from May 2004 until his retirement on Decem-
ber 31, 2016, he continued his involvement in code development. He was
the recipient of the 2013 Code Official of the Year from the Washington
Association of Building Officials (WABO). Dave has been a member of
the Plumbing Code Technical Advisory Group for the Washington State
Building Code Council since 1994 and is a member of WABO’s Technical
Code Development Committee. He has conducted many plumbing and
fuel gas code seminars over the years on behalf of WABO. He has served
on a number of ICC committees since the mid-1990s and was chair of the
International Plumbing/Private Sewage Disposal Code Committee for
the development of the 2015 and 2018 Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing
(SBC 701). Most recently he served on the Rainwater Collection System
Design and Installation Consensus Committee that developed the joint
ICC/CSA standard for rainwater harvesting systems.
x    P r e f a c e

ABOUT SAUDI ARABIA MINISTRY OF

MUNICIPAL RURAL AFFAIRS & HOUSING
The Ministry of Municipal Rural Affairs & Housing was established in
1395 AH / 1975 AD by Royal Decree No. (A / 266) dated 8/10/1395
AH and was assigned the responsibility of urban planning for the cities
of the Kingdom, and the implication of this in terms of providing roads
and basic equipment, improving and beautifying cities, developing mu-
nicipal and rural areas in addition to managing the services needed to
maintain the cleanliness and health of the environment in the Kingdom.

Our vision
Excellence in providing municipal services and achieving urban sustain-
ability in all regions of the Kingdom

Our message
Improving the quality of life and prosperity in Saudi cities to respond to
the aspirations and needs of current and future generations and achieve
the happiness of residents

+966114569999
https://www.momra.gov.sa/

ABOUT THE SAUDI BUILDING CODE

NATIONAL COMMITTEE (SBCNC)
The National Committee was formed as per the fifth Article of the Saudi
Building Code National Committee, which was issued by the Council of
Ministers #174 dated 15/06/1422 Hijri, amended by the Council of Min-
isters #459 dated 02/11/1436 Hijri, and issued by the Cabinet decision
#372 dated 12/07/1439 Hijri which states of by adding a representative
from the Ministry of Energy, Industry, and Mineral Resources to the
membership of the Saudi Building Code National Committee. The Com-
mittee’s strategic objectives were:
• Continue to update the Saudi Building Code periodically for all
specialties.
• Continue to implement the general plan of the Saudi Building Code
National Committee and prepare a plan to evaluate and implement
the latest technological advances and innovations of earthquake ef-
ficiency for existing buildings at active earthquake places.
• Suggest laws that require public and private entities to apply the
principles and standards of earthquake resistant buildings and facili-
ties in the kingdom.
 P r e f a c e    x i

The Committee has members from the following entities:

• A representative from the Ministry of Interior
• A representative from the Ministry of Municipality and Rural Affairs
• A representative from the Ministry of Housing
• A representative from the Ministry of Transport
• A representative from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and
Agriculture
• A representative from the Ministry of Energy, Industry, and Mineral
Resources
• A representative from King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology
• A representative from the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality
Organization
• A representative from the Royal Commission for Jubayl and Yanbu
• A representative from the Saudi Council of Engineers
• A representative from the Saudi Geological Survey
• A representative from Saudi Aramco
• Four specialists from Saudi universities
• A member from the private sector who is elected by the Council of
Saudi Chambers

ABOUT AL-ZAID ENGINEERING

CONSULTANTS (ZEC)
Al-Zaid Engineering Consultants (ZEC) is a Saudi consultancy group.
The company provides a wide range of services in the fields of water and
irrigation, engineering and energy as well as planning and community
development and project management. In addition, the company has
completed demand forecasting and economic feasibility studies and
identified funding options and implementation strategies for sites,
neighborhoods, cities and regions, especially in Saudi Arabia and the
Gulf countries. In addition, the company has established an industrial
engineering group to provide engineering and business planning ser-
vices to the petroleum and petrochemicals industries as well as profes-
sional design and supervisory services covering all branches of electrical
and environmental engineering.

Prince Muhammed bin Abdulaziz St. (Tahlia) Building No.290

Second floor
P.O. Box 20179, Riyadh 11455, KSA
T +966 (0)11 4633330
x i i    P r e f a c e

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL CODE

COUNCIL®
The International Code Council is a nonprofit association that provides
a wide range of building safety solutions including product evaluation,
accreditation, certification, codification and training. It develops model
codes and standards used worldwide to construct safe, sustainable, af-
fordable and resilient structures. ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) is the
industry leader in performing technical evaluations for code compliance
fostering safe and sustainable design and construction.

Washington DC Headquarters:
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001

Regional Offices:
Eastern Regional Office (BIR)
Central Regional Office (CH)
Western Regional Office (LA)

Distribution Center (Lenexa, KS)

Washington D.C. 202-370-1800; Dubai +9714 5163035

www.iccsafe.org

Family of Solutions:
PART
Code
I Administration
and Enforcement
Chapter 1: Introduction to Building Codes
Chapter 2: Legal Aspects, Permits and
Inspections

1
 CHAPTER
Introduction to
1 Building Codes

B
uilding codes are regulations adopted by governments to promote
safety in the built environment. People expect that when they
enter a building, they will be safe from inherent dangers caused
by natural or man-made disasters. We expect if a storm passes through our
area, the building will keep us dry and withstand the wind and heavy rain
forces created by the storm. When the earth shakes during an earthquake,
we expect the building to resist the forces and remain standing until we can
escape. When a fire occurs in a building, the occupants need a protected
and expedient way out. Building codes provide these safeguards by limit-
ing a building’s potential hazards and requiring certain features to provide
the occupants with a safe environment in which to live and work. The
18-volume Saudi Building Code (SBC) provides design guidelines to provide
occupant safety.

2
2
 C o n s t r u c t i o n C o d e s : S c o p e a n d L i m i t a t i o n s    3

CONSTRUCTION CODES: SCOPE AND

LIMITATIONS
All Saudi building codes begin with scope and intent statements
for each specific code. The scope outlines the code limits, explaining
the specific subject it covers. It also provides a foundation for the
code requirements in the specific volume. For example, one would
not expect structural seismic resistance rules in SBC 401 Electrical
Requirements because structural engineering is not within the scope
of the building’s electrical service and safety rules.
The code’s intent section outlines the code’s overall intent relat-
ed to buildings. It summarizes what the code is trying to achieve
through its regulations. The SBC 801 fire code intent, for example,
is to “establish the minimum requirements consistent with nation-
ally recognized good practice for providing a reasonable level of life
safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or
dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and
premises, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to fire fighters
and emergency responders during emergency operations.”
It is important to read and become familiar with the code scope
and intent as well as the specific technical requirements. The goal of
construction codes is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the
people who occupy and use buildings. Each code provides this protec-
tion in different ways, but they work together seamlessly. To provide
a full set of codes, the Saudi Building Code National Committee pub-
lishes several different volumes to address other aspects of building
construction (Figure 1-1).

FIGURE 1-1 The Saudi Building Code

4    C h a p t e r 1 I n t r o d u c t i o n t o B u i l d i n g C o d e s

SAUDI BUILDING CODE INTRODUCTION

Generally, all facilities and structures require building code compli-
ance that establishes safety, comfort and security through a build-
ing’s effective life span. These factors are significant in the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia due to its geography and regional climate differences.
The interior desert climate is hot and dry, while areas near the sea
have high humidity that deteriorates some building materials. Coast-
al soil contains high percentages of detrimental salts that corrode
many metals. Some coastal areas are susceptible to earthquakes that
threaten a building’s structural integrity.
These natural hazards combined with man-made or technological
threats such as fires, explosions or terrorist attacks emphasize the
importance of building construction and maintenance codes to pro-
tect Saudi citizens and visitors while maintaining the Saudi economy.
The Saudi Building Code started with the issuance of the Royal
Decree No. 7/B/3230 dated 11 June 2000 to form a national com-
mittee composed of representatives from Saudi universities, gov-
ernment and private sector. In September 2001, the Council of
Ministers approved the general plan of the National Committee to
prepare a unified Kingdom of Saudi Arabia building code.
The SBC is a set of legal, administrative and technical require-
ments that regulate Kingdom-wide building construction using
scientific and engineering principles to set minimum public safety
and health requirements in the built environment. Other aims are to
improve building efficiency, strength and sustainability, and increase
building life span. The code set includes regulations for building con-
struction and many facilities’ subsystems, such as structural protec-
tion, electrical, plumbing and gas utilities, fire safety, sanitation and
energy conservation. Each topic is included in one or more of the
18 documents that constitute the entire SBC.
Rather than writing an entirely new set of rules and regulations,
the National Committee studied construction safety codes from a
variety of other sources. It reviewed historical Arab and interna-
tional disastrous events, building standards, regulations, and plans
of the various governmental departments and authorities. The
National Committee reviewed the results of national research and
other international codes, such as the regulations of the USA-based
International Code Council (ICC), European Code (EC), Arab Codes
and the Canadian National Building Code. It obtained opinions from
specialists at relevant Saudi universities, government and private
sectors through a questionnaire, symposium and specialized work-
shops. As a result, the ICC’s group of codes was chosen to provide
the SBC’s foundation. The National Committee also endorsed the use
of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) regarding
electrotechnical regulations and requirements, American Concrete
Institute (ACI) codes for concrete and masonry structures, American
 S a u d i B u i l d i n g C o d e I n t r o d u c t i o n    5

Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) codes for loading and forces, and
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) codes for steel struc-
tures.
The SBC code requirements have been developed with the per-
mission of the ICC, ACI, ASCE and IEC. These organizations are not
responsible for any changes that the SBC has made to accommodate
local conditions or Saudi law. The Saudi National Building Code
Committee is responsible for Kingdom-wide modifications.
The technical committees and subcommittees started their work
to adapt the documents to Saudi needs in April 2003. They elected to
prepare the general framework for the SBC that aligns the base docu-
ments with the social and cultural environment, natural and climatic
conditions, soil types, and construction material properties common
in the Kingdom. The framework was approved by the Council of
Ministers Decree No. 279 dated 19 December 2004. Following that
approval, the technical committees and the subcommittees started
preparing the technical requirements for each of the specific 18 SBC
volumes.
The first version of the SBC was issued in 2007 and employed a
framework of two basic categories. First is “terms,” which are repre-
sented by the letters (‫)ك ب س‬. These include the minimum limits of
engineering standards required in design, construction, operation
and maintenance. The second part of the framework is “require-
ments,” which are represented by the letters SBC and include details
of design and methods of construction.
The original 2007 SBC scope can be summarized as follows:
• Administrative and legal terms that prescribe codes’ scope and
intent while classifying buildings and facilities according to their
use and occupancy. The administrative section identifies respon-
sible parties concerned in building planning and code applica-
tion, including design professionals and code officials. Other
administrative features include code-related definitions, code
official duties and responsibilities, and how to resolve disputes.
• Architectural terms and requirements that relate to architec-
tural works, type and use of building construction methods and
materials. These include special detailed requirements based on
use and occupancy (such as high-rise or underground buildings),
maximum building areas and heights, egress systems to help oc-
cupants escape, interior wall and ceiling finishes, fire resistance
for interior and exterior walls and ceilings, requirements for
people with special needs, and design against rodents and other
environmental hazards.
• Structural terms and requirements pertaining to structural de-
sign for wind, seismic and load restrictions, testing and struc-
tural investigation for soils, foundations and supporting walls,
concrete facilities, building using bricks and blocks, and steel
facilities.
6    C h a p t e r 1 I n t r o d u c t i o n t o B u i l d i n g C o d e s

• Electrical terms and requirements for design, installation, com-

missioning, maintenance and safety of systems, devices and elec-
tric service to and within buildings and including electric service
delivery to a site, internal and external lighting, control panels,
grounding and bonding systems, fire alarm devices, lightning
protection systems, and standby and emergency power.
• Mechanical terms and requirements for design, construction,
installation, commissioning, maintenance and safety of systems
and equipment for ventilation and exhaust, cooling and heating,
water heaters and boilers, solar energy systems, lifts, ladders,
moving belts and cranes.
• Energy conservation terms and requirements that relate to de-
sign consideration regarding water and power rationing.
• Sanitary terms and requirements for design, construction, in-
stallation, commissioning, maintenance and safety of plumbing
and sanitary systems for potable water, sewage systems, rainwa-
ter collection systems, and sewage and wastewater disposal.
• Fire protection terms and requirements for design, construc-
tion, installation and maintenance of fire protection features
such as fire-resistant construction, fire protection and detection
systems, egress, and the storage and handling of materials that
might cause or contribute to fires and explosions or create acute
health hazards.
The second SBC version was issued in 2018 and is an improved,
revised and updated edition of SBC 2007. It has employed the same
framework of categories: terms and requirements. The 2018 SBC ver-
sion is summarized as follows.
• Saudi Building Code—General (SBC 201). This volume con-
tains general requirements on the following topics: the use and
classification of buildings and facilities; building maximum ar-
eas and heights; construction methods; egress paths; interior
and exterior walls; ceiling and floor construction methods and
materials; roofs and rooftop structures; building interior envi-
ronment, including light, cooling and sanitation; construction
materials, such as wood, steel, masonry, plaster, gypsum board,
glass and plastic; infringements on public and private property;
protection during construction; signals and signs; and animal
and other vector controls.
• Saudi Loading Code (SBC 301). This volume addresses structural
loading and strength, joint forces, static forces, live or active forces,
FIGURE 1-2 The Saudi Building
Code (SBC 201) strong soil and water static and flood loads, strong winds, design
and building site rating steps in terms of seismic design, quality
control and associated work. SBC 302 through 306 include addi-
tional details pertaining to structural requirements. They are:
 S a u d i B u i l d i n g C o d e I n t r o d u c t i o n    7

FIGURE 1-3 The second version of the SBC

• Saudi Construction Code (SBC 302). This volume contains re-

quirements for tests and structural inspections of those features
designed to maintain structural integrity during disasters such
as windstorms, flooding, earthquakes, fires or explosion. Tests
and inspections are standardized to ensure critical elements are
evaluated by qualified persons.
• Saudi Soil and Foundation Code (SBC 303). This volume ad-
dresses site investigation and evaluation, excavation, soil settle-
ment, ability to extend foundations, bearing walls, retaining
walls, footing and foundations, seismic force designs, moisture
protection, and structural column, beam and pedestal construc-
tion.
• Saudi Concrete Structures Code (SBC 304). This volume pre-
scribes materials, construction systems and design loads, load
and resistance and service paths, sustainability and constructa-
bility, analytical considerations, tensile force requirements, de- FIGURE 1-4 The Saudi Loading
sign placement and pivot loads. Code (SBC 301)
8    C h a p t e r 1 I n t r o d u c t i o n t o B u i l d i n g C o d e s

• Saudi Masonry Code (SBC 305). This volume addresses con-

struction materials, construction, quality assurance and seismic
design.
• Saudi Steel Structures Code (SBC 306). This volume includes
design and material requirements, tensile members, columns
and other compression members, other members correspond-
ing to bending, bridges, beams and slabs, double twisting forc-
es, ligaments, joints, and concentrated forces, connectivity and
stresses.
• Saudi Electrical Code (SBC 401). This volume contains the fol-
lowing requirements: electrical wiring, internal and external
lighting, bonding and grounding methods, fire and security
alarms, lightning protection systems, solar photovoltaic sys-
tems, power and controls for elevators, escalators and moving
FIGURE 1-5 The Saudi Electrical belts, and standby and emergency energy power systems.
Code (SBC 401) • Saudi Mechanical Code (SBC 501). This volume addresses ex-
haust and ventilation, steam disposal methods, combustion air,
chimneys and ventilation, ducts and air-handling equipment,
boilers, heaters and pressure vessels, refrigeration, plumbing,
fuel oil pipelines and storage, solar systems, lifts and lift sys-
tems, and mechanical maintenance requirements.
• Saudi Energy Conservation Code for Buildings Except Low-
Rise Residential Buildings (SBC 601). This volume provides
nonresidential and commercial building energy conservation de-
sign through analysis of building systems and renewable energy
sources.
• Saudi Energy Conservation Code—Low-Rise (Residential)
Buildings (SBC 602). This Code is like SBC 601 but focuses on
low-rise apartment buildings. Contents include energy conserva-
tion requirements for all aspects of energy used in residential con-
FIGURE 1-6 The Saudi struction, including heating and ventilation, lighting, water heat-
Mechanical Code (SBC 501)
ing, and power usage for appliances and building systems. It sets
forth minimum requirements for exterior envelope insulation,
window and door U-factors and SHGC ratings, duct insulation,
lighting and power efficiency, and water distribution insulation.
• Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing (SBC 701). This volume in-
cludes internal water and sewage distribution systems, faucet
and other fixture installation, drainage and ventilation systems
for sanitation, safe drinking water systems, water storage sys-
tems, special drainage gutters, and other wastewater and sub-
surface irrigation systems.

FIGURE 1-7 The Saudi Energy

Conservation Code (SBC 601)
 S a u d i B u i l d i n g C o d e I n t r o d u c t i o n    9

• Saudi Sanitary Code—Private Sewage Disposal (SBC 702).

This Code provides minimum requirements for the installation
of new or the alteration of existing private sewage disposal sys-
tems. It addresses site evaluations, materials, various soil ab-
sorption systems, holding tanks, cesspools and on-site wastewa-
ter treatment systems.
• Saudi Fire Code (SBC 801). This volume aligns closely with SBC
201 and contains requirements for use and occupancy classifica-
tion, building construction and fire and life safety features, fire-
resistive construction maintenance, general precautions against
fire, planning and emergency equipment, fire services land-
marks, interior, decor and furnishing, fire protection systems,
means of escape, and hazardous operations and materials.
• Saudi Existing Building Code (SBC 901). This volume contains FIGURE 1-8 The Saudi Plumbing
information related to work in existing buildings such as repairs, Code (SBC 701)
alterations and additions. Other topics included are change of
use or occupancy, historic buildings and relocatable or portable
buildings. The 2015 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
is the basis for this volume of the Saudi Building Code.
• Saudi Green Construction Code (SBC 1001). This volume is in-
tended to safeguard the environment, public health, safety and
welfare by establishing provisions to reduce the negative impact
and increase the positive impact of the built environment on the
natural environment and building occupants. This volume of the
building code is an overlay document to be used in conjunction
with the other Saudi Codes, and not as an independent construc-
tion code, as such permits are not to be issued under this code.
This code is not intended to abridge or supersede safety, health
or environmental requirements under other applicable codes or
ordinances. The 2015 International Green Construction Code
(IgCC) is the basis for this volume of the Saudi Building Code. FIGURE 1-9 The Saudi Fire Code
• Saudi Residential Building Code (SBC 1101). This volume of (SBC 801)
the Saudi Building Code addresses construction of single-family
villas and other similar buildings. This volume of the Saudi Build-
ing Code is currently under development.
• Saudi Fuel Gas Code (SBC 1201). This volume of the Saudi
Building Code establishes minimum requirements for fuel-gas
systems and gas-fired appliances using prescriptive and per-
formance-related provisions. This volume of the Saudi Building
Code is currently under development.
1 0    C h a p t e r 1 I n t r o d u c t i o n t o B u i l d i n g C o d e s

FIGURE 1-10 The 2018 Saudi Requirement Set

TABLE 1-1 Key List of the Saudi Codes: Designations and Brief Titles
Title Code Req.1 Code &Com.2 Arabic Prov.3
The General Building Code SBC 201-CR SBC 201-CC SBC 201-AR
Structural – Loading and Forces SBC 301-CR SBC 301-CC SBC 301-AR
Structural – Construction SBC 302-CR SBC 302-AR
Structural – Soil and Foundations SBC 303-CR SBC 303-CC SBC 303-AR
Structural – Concrete Structures SBC 304-CR SBC 304-CC SBC 304-AR
Structural – Masonry Structures SBC 305-CR SBC 305-CC SBC 305-AR
Structural – Steel Structures SBC 306-CR SBC 306_AR
Electrical Code SBC 401-CR SBC 401-AR
Mechanical Code SBC 501-CR SBC 501-CC SBC 501-AR
Energy Conservation-Nonresidential SBC 601-CR SBC 601-CC SBC 601-AR
Energy Conservation-Residential SBC 602-CR SBC 602-CC SBC 602-AR
Plumbing Code SBC 701-CR SBC 701-CC SBC 701-AR
Private Sewage Code SBC 702-CR SBC 702-AR
Fire Code SBC 801-CR SBC 801-CC SBC 801-AR
Existing Buildings Code SBC 901-CR SBC 901-CC SBC 901-AR
Green Construction Code SBC 1001-CR SBC 1001-CC SBC 1001-AR
Residential Building Code* SBC 1101-CR SBC 1101-CC SBC 1101-AR
Fuel Gas Code* SBC 1201-CR SBC 1201-CC SBC 1201-AR

1. CR: Code Requirements without Commentary; 2. CC: Code Requirements with Commentary; 3. AR: Arabic Code Provisions
* Under Development
 S B C 7 0 1 A r r a n g e m e n t a n d F o r m a t    11

SBC 701 ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT

Before applying the SBC 701 requirements, it is beneficial to under-
stand their arrangement, format and correlation. SBC 701, like other
codes published by Saudi Building Code National Committee, is ar-
ranged to follow sequential steps that generally occur during a plan
review or inspection. Table 1-2 illustrates how SBC 701 is arranged.

TABLE 1-2 SBC 701 Arrangement

Chapters Subjects
1–2 Administration and definitions
3 General regulations
4 Fixtures, faucets and fixture fittings
5 Water heaters
6 Water supply and distribution
7 Sanitary drainage
8 Indirect/special waste
9 Vents
10 Traps, interceptors and separators
11 Storm drainage
12 Special piping and storage systems
13 Nonpotable water systems
14 Subsurface landscape irrigation systems
15 Referenced standards
Appendices A–E Appendices

TABLE 1-3 Reserved. See SBC 201 and 801 Guides for some examples of correlation between SBC volumes.

TABLE 1-4 Reserved. See SBC 201, 501 and 801 Guides for some examples of correlation between SBC volumes.
1 2    C h a p t e r 1 I n t r o d u c t i o n t o B u i l d i n g C o d e s
CHAPTER
Legal Aspects,
2 Permits and
Inspections

T
he Saudi Sanitary Code—Plumbing (SBC 701) is effective across the
county and enforced by local government. This chapter describes
the process and how the code is enforced through the review of
construction plans and the inspection of work. The building department’s
authority and code administration responsibilities are discussed.

13
1 4    C h a p t e r 2 L e g a l A s p e c t s , P e r m i t s a n d I n s p e c t i o n s

CODE DEVELOPMENT
Codes versus standards
SBC 701 is generally a performance-oriented code. In some cases, the
code references specific documents that regulate materials and meth-
ods of construction to enhance the requirements. These documents
are called referenced standards. Referenced standards are typically
developed by standards development organizations other than the
International Code Council. However, the International Code Council
does publish several standards. When the standards are referenced in
the code, they are considered to be a part of the code. Therefore, all of
the standards listed in Chapter 15 are also considered to be adopted
and enforceable, to the extent that specific portions of the adopted
standard apply to specific code provisions.
Many types of standards are referenced in SBC 701. They include
structural engineering standards, material standards, installation
standards, and testing standards. The standards are referenced in
different sections of the code.
Standards used in the Saudi Sanitary Code
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 15]
Chapter 15 of SBC 701 lists all of the referenced standards. They are
organized by the promulgating agency and initials. Each standard is
listed with the document’s publication designation, edition year, title
and the section of the code where the document is referenced. (Figure
2-1) It is important that the correct edition of the standard is used
because the revision dates of the standards do not always coincide
with the revision of SBC 701. The referenced codes and standards
are considered part of the requirements of SBC 701. Where there are

Agency’s Title and

Agency’s Address
Acronym

National Fire Protection Association

NFPA 1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02169-7471
Standard Referenced
Reference in code
Number Title section number
13—13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems 708.2, 903.3.1.1, 903.3.2, 903.3.8.2, 903.3.8.5
904.11, 905.3.4, 907.6.4, 1019.3

Publication Edition Standard Title Code Sections

Designation Year
FIGURE 2-1
 A u t h o r i t y    1 5

conflicts between the code provisions and the referenced document,

the provisions of the code will apply.

AUTHORITY
[Ref. SBC 701 - 103]
To provide for enforcement of SBC 701, the local jurisdiction’s De-
partment of Building and Safety is managed by the building official
under the authority of the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs.
This person is appointed by the appointing authority of the jurisdic-
tion. The building official has the authority to enforce the code. This
person also appoints deputies—building inspectors, plans examiners
and permit technicians—to assist in the enforcement of the code.
Building departments can range from a one-person office to dozens
of employees in an agency. [Ref. SBC 701 - 103]
Because the sanitary code is adopted as a law in a region, it must
be enforced just like any law. A department enforces the code by
reviewing building plans prior to construction and issuing build-
ing permits authorizing the work. The project is then inspected by
building inspectors trained and certified in their area of expertise.
Inspections are also conducted by experts in specialized subjects.
The inspection process is discussed further in this chapter. After
the inspections are complete and the building complies with the
applicable codes, a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, permitting the
building to be occupied by the public.
Even though the code is enforced as a law, there are many provi-
sions that are not designed to be specific. The building official must
understand the underlying intent and purpose of the code provisions
to reasonably enforce the code, including interpretations.
As technology improves and new products are developed, the
building code falls behind because it is only updated when necessary.
Therefore, the code gives the jurisdiction the authority to approve
alternate materials, designs, and methods of construction. Although
many parts of the code are prescriptive in nature, it allows a perfor-
mance-based process in complying with its requirements. A prescrip-
tive code is a requirement that must be specifically met. A perfor-
mance code requirement describes the intent of a section and allows
the architect to come up with a design to comply with the code.
Alternative materials and methods of
construction [Ref. SBC 701 - 105.1, 105.2]
The building official reviews alternative designs and products to de-
termine if they comply with the purpose and intent of the code. The
official must determine if the alternate is at least the equivalent to
the code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability
and safety. This is accomplished by reviewing testing information
and research reports provided by the manufacturer of the product.
1 6    C h a p t e r 2 L e g a l A s p e c t s , P e r m i t s a n d I n s p e c t i o n s

To assist the building official in this process, the ICC Evaluation

Code Service (ICC-ES) was created. This organization develops acceptance
Essentials criteria for different types of construction products. It then evaluates
the products to the standard acceptance criteria to determine if the
Code official duties:
product complies with the intent of the particular code. [Ref. SBC
• Enforce the code
701 - 105.2]
• Review plans, diagrams
An evaluation report includes specific information about the
and calculations
product being reviewed (Figure 2-2). It provides manufacturer infor-
• Issue permits
mation, installation requirements and details, and specific conditions
• Issue notices and orders
for the approval. The report is issued for a specific time period and
• Conduct inspections
renewed as required. It is also approved based on specific editions of
• Maintain records
the code. Because the code is revised at times, it is important for the
Code official authority:
current report to be used in evaluating the product for use in a proj-
• Make interpretations
ect. [Ref. SBC 701 - 107.2.5.1]
• Adopt policies and
Occasionally there are instances when there is a practical dif-
procedures
ficulty with complying with the building code. Therefore, SBC 701
• Approve modifications
allows a modification to be approved for individual cases by the build-
and alternatives
ing official. The owners or their authorized agent must apply for the
Limits on authority:
modification and explain why there is a practical difficulty in comply-
• Cannot waive code
ing with the strict letter of the code. They must also provide docu-
requirements
mentation that their proposed fix or modification is in compliance
• Cannot require more
with the intent and purpose of the code and that such modification
than the code l
does not lessen the health, accessibility, life and fire safety or struc-
tural requirements. The building official reviews this information
and then determines whether the modification should be granted.
The official then records the decision in the building department
files. [Ref. SBC 701 - 105.1]

PERMITS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 106]
Permits are issued after the building department reviews the build-
ing plans for compliance with the applicable codes. When a property
owner wants to build a new building, remodel a building or build an
addition onto an existing building, he or she must obtain a permit
from the building department. A set of plans drawn by an architect or
engineer is submitted to the building department, showing the type
of work that will be done on the project.
 P e r m i t s    1 7

You Should
Know
Desirable outcomes for a
department of plumbing
inspection:
• Effectiveness
• Consistency
• Fairness
• Credibility
• Public trust
• Safe plumbing
systems l

You Should
Know
Prescriptive versus
Performance in the
SBC 701

Prescriptive code
example:

“Handrail height, mea-

sured above stair tread
nosings, or finish surface
of ramp slope shall be
uniform, not less than
850 mm and not more
than 950 mm.”

Performance code
example:
FIGURE 2-2 ICC-ES Evaluation Report
“Fire walls shall have suf-
ficient structural stability
under fire conditions to
allow collapse of con-
struction on either side
without collapse of the
wall for the duration of
time indicated by the
required fire-resistance
rating.”l
1 8    C h a p t e r 2 L e g a l A s p e c t s , P e r m i t s a n d I n s p e c t i o n s

The building department then reviews the drawings to determine

You Should whether the plans comply with the SBC in the jurisdiction (Figure
Know 2-3). If the plans are not in compliance with the codes, a plan review
Alternative methods and
report is created by the plans examiner and returned to the applicant.
materials:
The drawings are required to be revised to correct the areas noted
• The code official
in the plan review report. Once it is determined that the drawings
approves alternatives
comply with the minimum codes, a permit is issued to the owner or
that comply with the
contractor (Figure 2-4). The contractor is then authorized to start
intent of the code.
the work outlined in the plans. The contractor is required to keep the
ICC Evaluation Service
permit on the job site for the inspectors as the job progresses.
(ES) Reports:
It is important that owners of a building, as well as the architect or
• ES Reports are
contractor, obtain a permit from their local building department. The
valuable tools for
permit ensures that the work is completed properly and the building
verifying that
is constructed to the minimum standards of the code. Occupants of
alternative methods
a building expect a building to be safe when they enter. Working on
and materials perform
a building without a permit and assistance from the building depart-
satisfactorily and are
ment may create an unsafe condition for the occupants of the build-
equivalent to those
ing. If someone does construction without the proper permits, that
prescribed by the
individual may be subject to criminal prosecution and the work may
code. l
need to be removed. The individual also risks the chance of additional
liability if someone is injured in the building and it is determined that
a building permit and the required inspections were not obtained.

Plumbing Plan Review Checklist

2018 International Plumbing Code

Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings—Chapter 4 Section

Minimum plumbing fixtures

• Classification and description of occupancy Table 403.1
• Separate facilities required? Yes/ No 403.2
• Number of male / female water closets required Table 403.1
• Urinal substitution 424.2
• Drinking fountains and water dispensers 410

Water closets for public / employee use 425.2 / 425.3

Clearances for water closets, urinals and lavatories 405.3.1 / 405.3.5

Water temperatures limitations

• Bathtubs 412.5
• Showers—Control valves and gang showers 412.3 / 412.4
• Public lavatories 419.5

Water Supply and Distribution—Chapter 6

Registered design professional required? Yes / No 106.3.1 / 202

Pipe sizing and calculations 604

Type of material and joining methods 605

Required valves 606.1 / 606.2

Hot water distribution 607.1 / 607.2

Backflow protection—type of device and what the outlet is serving 608

FIGURE 2-3 Sample of portion of a plan review checklist

 P e r m i t s    1 9

Not every little bit of work in a building requires a permit. The

code exempts small repairs or maintenance or other minor construc- Code Essentials
tion. Although a permit may not be required, the work that is done Plumbing work exempt
must comply with the code. No inspections are required on this work, from permit:
but the owner is obligated to do the work properly and in accordance • Stopping of leaks,
with the code. except where repairs
Submittal requirements [Ref. SBC 701 - 106.3] require removal and
replacement with new
To obtain a permit from a jurisdiction, an applicant must submit material
a permit application, a set of drawings and specifications showing • Clearing of stoppages,
what type of work will be done (unless such is not required by the lo- including removal and
cal jurisdiction). The drawings should give enough information that reinstallation of water
anyone could take the plans and perform the work without knowing closets, provided that
anything about the project. The code requires that a minimum of such work does not
two sets of documents be submitted. Once a permit is issued, one involve replacement or
set is kept on the job site and the other is kept on file in the building rearrangement of valves,
department. [Ref. SBC 701 - 106.3] pipes or fixtures l
In most cases, construction documents are required to be pre-
pared by a licensed architect and/or engineer. SBC 701 requires an
owner to engage and designate a registered design professional to be
in charge of the project. If the owner changes the design professional,

Ci
ty of - - - - -

Code Essentials
Notice Permit-holder responsibili-
Building Department
City Of
Plumbing Permit ties:
Permit No. 00-0000 • Permit on job site
Has been issued to • Approve plans on job
Owner site
Contractor • Call for inspection
For (Work Description) • Provide access for
inspection l

At (Project Address)

(Date) (Code Official Signature)

Issue Date Code Official

The issuance or granting of a permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any
violation of any of the provisions of the city plumbing code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction.

A copy of this plumbing permit shall be kept on the site of the work until the completion of the project.

The permit holder or authorized agent is responsible for calling for all required inspections before work
is covered and for providing access to the work. Do not occupy this building, or portion of building as
described, until final inspection, approval and issuance of the certificate of occupancy.

This permit expires ___/___/___

City Building Department

(000) 000-0000

FIGURE 2-4 Sample of plumbing permit card

2 0    C h a p t e r 2 L e g a l A s p e c t s , P e r m i t s a n d I n s p e c t i o n s

he or she must notify the building official in writing. The registered

You Should design professional is responsible for reviewing and coordinating any
Know documents submitted by other people involved in the project and
Definitions for consider-
must ensure that the information is compatible with the design of
ation (see Glossary):
the system.
• Construction Plan review process [Ref. SBC 701 - 104.2]
documents
When construction documents are submitted to the building depart-
• Registered design
ment, the code requires that the plans be reviewed for compliance.
professional l
It also requires that the review include other applicable laws of the
jurisdiction. If the plans are found to be in compliance with the ap-
plicable codes, a permit can be issued for the work. If the plans have
discrepancies and do not comply with the codes, a plan review re-
port is generated and provided to the applicant. The applicant then
makes corrections to the plans and resubmits them to the building
department for review and a permit. After the permit is issued, any
changes that are made to the plans must be submitted for review.
This includes changes that are made in the field. In some cases, in-
formation is not available when the original construction documents
are submitted. Therefore, the code allows this information to be pro-
vided as deferred submittals. The use of deferred submittals must be
approved by the building official at the time of the original submittal.
The registered design professional must review the deferred submit-
tals prior to submitting them to the building official.
Inspections [Ref. SBC 701 - 107]
As work progresses on a project that has been issued a permit, the
building department conducts inspections to confirm compliance
with the plans and SBC 701 (Table 2-1). The owner or contractor is
responsible for contacting the building department and requesting
the appropriate inspection. Work is not permitted to be covered until
an inspection has been completed. The code requires the following
specific inspections be done to ensure the building complies with the
applicable provisions of the code. [Ref. SBC 701 - 107]

TABLE 2-1 Required inspections

Inspection Conducted when Inspect
Plumbing When underground work is completed • Materials, fittings and methods
underground • Work properly supported and protected
• Pressure testing of piping systems
Plumbing Rough-in stage complete prior to rough framing • Materials, fittings and methods
rough-in inspection • Work properly supported and protected
Water service connection • Pressure testing of piping systems
Plumbing final After building complete, ready for occupancy • Fixtures and appliances properly installed
Fixtures installed and connected • Sealed at walls, floors and counters
• Backflow preventer test completed
 P e r m i t s    2 1

Under-floor inspection [Ref. SBC 701 - 107.2]

Where a portion of the plumbing system will be covered by a concrete
slab, that portion of the system must be tested and inspected prior
to cover (Figure 2-5).
Rough-in inspection [Ref. SBC 701 - 107.2]
The plumbing system must be tested and inspected prior to wall,
ceiling or floor covering. This inspection is necessary before framing
approval can be granted.
Final inspection [Ref. SBC 701 - 107.2]
After all fixtures and appliances have been installed and are operat-
ing, an inspection is required in order to verify that they are func-
tioning properly. This inspection must be completed before final
building occupancy can be granted.

FIGURE 2-5 Underground plumbing must be inspected prior to the

placement of concrete.
2 2    C h a p t e r 2 L e g a l A s p e c t s , P e r m i t s a n d I n s p e c t i o n s

BOARD OF APPEALS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 109]
The SBCNC is responsible for the interpretation of the regulations in
SBC 201. Occasionally, an architect or contractor may disagree with
the decisions or determinations made by the building official rela-
tive to the application and interpretation of this code. In this case,
the architect or contractor can request a hearing before the Board of
Appeals.
The Board of Appeals shall be appointed by the Minister as
defined by the government regulation and shall hold office at his
pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting
its business. The members appointed to the board are familiar with
construction and understand the building process, and they shall not
be members of the jurisdiction. [Ref. SBC 701 - 109]
An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true
intent of the code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been
incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of the code do not fully apply,
or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The
board shall not have authority to waive requirements of the code.

DEFINITIONS
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 2]
Many terms in the SBC are specific to the code. Therefore, the code
includes definitions for different terms in the regulations. When a
term is not specified in the code, the normal use of the term can be
applied to the code. The definitions listed in the SBC are very impor-
tant to the use of the code. When a user sees these terms, they should
reference Chapter 2 of the SBC to determine the specific use of the
term in the code. It provides important clarification to the other sec-
tions of the code. All of the definitions are contained in Chapter 2
of the SBC. Cross references in specific chapters are provided in the
first part of many chapters. Some of the SBC-specific definitions have
been provided in the glossary of this book. [Ref. SBC 701 - 202]
 Q u i z    2 3

QUIZ
1. Where there are conflicts between the code provisions and refer-
enced documents, such as a referenced standard, the provisions
of the code shall apply.
a. True
b. False

2. In instances where there is practical difficulty in complying with

the code, the owner or authorized agent may submit a request for
__________________ to the code official.
a. an exemption from permit and inspection
b. a modification
c. an appeal

3. When work is done that does not require a permit, the work
______________________________.
a. must be done properly and in accordance with the code
b. shall be subject to inspection anyway
c. does not have to be code compliant
2 4    C h a p t e r 2 L e g a l A s p e c t s , P e r m i t s a n d I n s p e c t i o n s
PART
Layout and
II Planning

Chapter 3: Installation
Chapter 4: Design

25
 CHAPTER
Installation
3

D
uring the design phases of a building construction project, one
must give attention to general plumbing code requirements
that will apply to the type of occupancy and use of the struc-
ture, as well as the type of preferred or mandated materials that are to
be used for installation purposes. This chapter addresses items such as
general requirements, protection of plumbing systems, materials and
standards, and water/sewer requirements.

26
26
 W a t e r a n d S e w e r R e q u i r e d    2 7

WATER AND SEWER REQUIRED

[Ref. SBC 701 - 301.3, 301.4] You Should
Chapter 4 of SBC 701 establishes the minimum number of required Know
plumbing fixtures for the various group occupancies described in The code official should
SBC 201. This will be discussed in further detail in Chapter 5 of this work with the local
publication. Where plumbing fixtures are mandated, an approved authority overseeing
means of waste discharge is required to which the fixtures shall be public sewers and on-
connected. Sanitary drainage systems shall be connected to a public site sewage disposal
sewer. Where a public sewer is not available, sanitary drainage shall systems, such as a pub-
be connected to a private sewage disposal system. The provisions of lic utility or a health
SBC 702 will apply where adopted locally. There is an exception that department when it
allows wastewater from bathing and laundry facilities to discharge comes to identifying dis-
to a subsurface landscape irrigation system or to an on-site nonpo- charges that may be det-
table water reuse system. In both cases, you will want to verify that rimental to the disposal
these options, although included in the code, are acceptable to local systems. Such agencies
health regulations. On-site nonpotable water reuse systems will be may also control haz-
addressed in Chapter 10 of this publication. [Ref. SBC 701 - 301.1, ardous waste disposal
701.2] operations. l
Wastes that are dangerous or damaging to the building drainage
system or the public or private sewage disposal system shall not be
discharged into such systems. While some items that can be detri- Code
mental or dangerous are identified in the code, it is good to coordi- Essentials
nate with the authority having jurisdiction for the public or private SBC 702 contains provi-
sewage disposal system, as well as for the handling and disposal sions for on-site sewage
of hazardous materials and fluids, should there be any questions. disposal systems, and
Certain wastes can be removed or captured by means of interceptors Chapter 14 of SBC 701 con-
and separators, such as greases, oils and sand, and some chemical tains provisions graywater
wastes can be further diluted prior to entry into the drainage system. discharge to subsurface
[Ref. SBC 701 - 302] irrigation use. Always verify
Plumbing fixtures, devices and appliances that require the use local regulations that may
of water for proper operation are required to be connected to the apply. l
water distribution system of the structure, which is then connected
to an approved source of water, either a public or private source.
Generally, approved water sources will be by means of a public water
utility. However, where a potable public water supply is not available,
individual sources of potable water shall be used. Quite often an
individual source of potable water is a private or community well that
may be regulated by agencies or departments outside of the typical
building department. Such regulations may include mandatory sup-
ply and storage volumes for private or independent potable water
sources. Although the plumbing inspector may have no authority
over potable water sources, it is imperative that an approved potable
water source is properly identified for the intended use before grant-
ing approval for construction. [Ref. SBC 701 - 301.4, 602.3]
2 8    C h a p t e r 3 I n s t a l l a t i o n

You Should MATERIALS AND STANDARDS

[Ref. SBC 701 - 303, Chapter 15]
Know Adherence to SBC 701 will result in a plumbing installation of good
Definitions for consider- quality. But quality goes beyond the skill of the installer. Quality con-
ation (see Glossary): struction depends also on materials of good quality. SBC 701 includes
• Third-party certified a chapter that lists the various product standards for plumbing ma-
• Third-party terials that are identified in the code and includes a reference to the
certification agencyl code section(s) where the use and installation of such materials are
addressed. Additionally, you will note that many code sections also
include the applicable product or material standards. This provides
a quick and easy means for identifying the appropriate standard for
products and materials. [Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 15]
How can you know for sure that the materials used conform to
the applicable standard identified in the code? Here is where third-
party certification comes into play. Such identification is most com-
monly referred to as a listing. That a product or material is listed
provides confirmation that the product or material has been evalu-
ated by a third-party certification agency. To better explain what a
FIGURE 3-1 ICC-ES PMG mark third-party certification agency is, let’s consider one such agency,
the ICC Evaluation Services (ICC-ES PMG) program as it pertains
to plumbing, mechanical and gas materials and products (Figure
Code 3-1). The PMG listing mark indicates that the product complies with
Essentials applicable standards and codes, and that ongoing inspections at the
Where there are con- manufacturer’s site are conducted to ensure that the quality of the
flicts between the code, product remains consistent. [Ref. SBC 701 - 303]
manufacturer’s installation It is equally important that the product or material be installed
instructions, referenced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the code.
standards or other regula- Keep in mind that there may be rare occasions where a conflict
tions: exists between the manufacturer’s installation instructions and the
• The minimum provisions code. The code specifically states that where conflicts occur between
of the code apply over the code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions, the more
requirements in restrictive provisions shall apply. As an example, consider temper-
referenced standards ature-actuated, flow reduction (TARF) devices that conform to the
and manufacturer’s ASSE 1062 product standard, which is an approved standard recog-
instructions [Ref. SBC nized by the code. Such devices can be an effective means for reduc-
701 - 302.2] ing the possibility of injury due to exposure to hot water discharge in
• The provisions of the excess of 49°C. However, the code clearly states that such valves are
code are not deemed to not to be used alone as a substitute for balanced-pressure, thermo-
nullify any provisions of static or combination shower valves. In this case, the code prevails
any law [Ref. SBC 701 regardless of what might be indicated in the manufacturer’s installa-
- 102.10] l tion instructions. [Ref. SBC 701 - 301.7, 424.3, 427.7]
 P r o t e c t i o n o f t h e P l u m b i n g S y s t e m a n d S t r u c t u r e    2 9

PROTECTION OF THE PLUMBING SYSTEM

AND STRUCTURE
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 3]
During the installation of the plumbing system, attention must be
given to protecting both the plumbing system itself as well as the
structure. In this section we will cover some specific code require-
ments that address this. We will first consider protection of the
structural integrity of the building during the plumbing installation,
and then we will look at requirements for protection of the plumbing
components.
The code states that plumbing is to be installed with due regard
to protecting the structural integrity of the structural members.
Proper installation of the plumbing fixtures themselves is also nec-
essary for protection of floor and wall surfaces. For now, let’s focus
on the structural integrity, primarily the foundation and the framing
members.
One of the things that can undermine the foundation is the
placement of piping underground, near the structural foundation.
This is especially so when the excavation and piping are installed
parallel to the foundation. Trenches that are parallel and next to the
foundation cannot extend below the 45-degree bearing plane of the
footing wall (Figure 3-2).
Attention must also be given to the necessary boring and notch-
ing of framing members, such as vertical studs and horizontal joists.
For the benefit of the plumbing installer, SBC 701 includes an appen-

EXCAVATING AND
PIPING PROHIBITED

45
LINE OF LOAD-BEARING
PIPING ACCEPTABLE DISTRIBUTION PLANE

FIGURE 3-2 Excavation in relation to footing

3 0    C h a p t e r 3 I n s t a l l a t i o n

dix chapter which details the location and

End notch D maximum allowances for cutting, notching
D/4 maximum
and boring of wood framing members as
required in SBC 201 (Figures 3-3 through
3-5 and Table 3-1).
Span L Boring, cutting or notching of trusses
L/3 L/3 L/3
and other engineered wood products is pro-
No notches permitted hibited except as specifically permitted by
in center L/3
D/3 maximum the manufacturer. Otherwise, a registered
D
D/6 maximum
design professional must consider any alter-
50 mm ations in the design of the engineered com-
minimum
Boring and notching ponent. Wherever piping penetrates floors,
in solid sawn lumber 50 mm minimum
beams, floor joists ceilings or walls that are required to have
D/3 maximum
and ceiling joists
a fire-resistance rating, such penetrations
FIGURE 3-3 Boring and notching in solid sawn beams, floor joists
must be protected in accordance with SBC
and ceiling joists 201 in order to maintain the fire-resistance
rating. Even where a fire-resistance rating is
not required, approved sealing or caulking
of the annular space between the pipe and
the sides of the opening is needed in order
to prevent the entrance of rodents, which
can be damaging to both the structure and
Notch
25% of stud
the plumbing system in addition to being a
depth maximum
Bored holes in single studs
health hazard.
Maximum diameter 40% of stud depth Consideration must also be given to
protection of the piping system itself. This
Maximum diameter 60% of stud depth
mainly involves providing proper support
Studs must be doubled
No more than two successive doubled studs so bored of the piping and installing safeguards to
16 mm minimum
from edge of stud
protect the piping from damage once it is
installed. Let’s first address support and
FIGURE 3-4 Boring and notching of studs in exterior wall or protection of piping buried below grade.
bearing interior wall

Bored holes may not be in the

same cross section as notches. Minimum
16 mm from
edge of stud

Notch
40% of stud
depth maximum

Maximum diameter of
bored holes is 60% of
stud depth

FIGURE 3-5 Boring and notching of studs in nonbearing interior

wall
 P r o t e c t i o n o f t h e P l u m b i n g S y s t e m a n d S t r u c t u r e    3 1

TABLE 3-1 Boring and notching limits for wood beams, joists, rafters and studs
converted to inches
Code
Sawn lumber beams, floor joists, Approximate notch and hole
ceiling joists and rafters limitations in inches
Essentials
Nominal size Approximate depth ‘D’ D/3 D/4 D/6 Appendix C in SBC 701
2x4 88.9 mm 30.17 mm 22.4 mm 12.7 mm contains provisions regard-
2x6 139.7 mm 40.07 mm 35 mm 23.85 mm ing notching, boring and
2x8 184.2 mm 60.4 mm 46.07 mm 30.17 mm cutting wood framing
2 x 10 235 mm 77.79 mm 58.75 mm 38.1 mm members that are con-
2 x 12 285.8 mm 95.4 mm 71.47 mm 47.8 mm sistent with SBC 201 and
provided to the user of
Wood studs 60% 40% 25%
SBC 701 for convenience.
2x4 88.9 mm 54 mm 35 mm 22.4 mm
One must still look to SBC
2x6 139.7 mm 84.15 mm 55.57 mm 35 mm
201 for notching, boring
and cutting limitations as
When installing piping in a trench, the entire length of the pip- they apply to other materi-
ing must be supported, including the fittings. This is not merely to als such as cold-formed
maintain proper slope of the piping, but to protect the joints of the steel and engineered wood
pipe and fittings from sagging, which can result in failure of the products. l
joint. SBC 701 provides some basic guidelines for maintaining solid
and continuous support along the bottom of the trench with clean,
smooth backfill material. Where material must be added to bring the
bottom of the trench to the appropriate level to support the instal-
lation, sand or fine gravel shall be placed in adequately compacted
layers not to exceed 150 mm in depth. When backfilling to cover
the installation, clean fill shall be placed and tamped in maximum
150 mm layers to a depth of 300 mm before completing the fill pro-
cess (Figure 3-6).
Always follow the manu-
facturer’s installation instruc-
tions first and foremost, which
may be more restrictive than
the code provisions.
Support is also necessary
for piping installed above FILL
grade, and this applies to both
horizontal and vertical piping
installations. It’s not just the CLEAN FILL, TAMPED 150 mm
type and weight of the piping
material that matters, but also
CLEAN FILL, TAMPED 150 mm

COMPACTED SAND OR
CLEAN EARTH 150 mm FINE GRAVEL

FIGURE 3-6 Underground piping placement

3 2    C h a p t e r 3 I n s t a l l a t i o n

the weight and velocity of the contents within the piping. SBC 701,
Table 308.5 provides both horizontal and vertical spacing intervals
for support of various piping and tubing material (Table 3-2).
TABLE 3-2 Hanger spacing
Maximum horizontal Maximum vertical
Piping material spacing (m) spacing (m)
ABS pipe 1.2 3.0b
Cast-iron pipe 1.5a 4.5
Copper tubing 1.8 3.0
(32 mm or smaller)
Copper tubing 3
(38 mm or larger) 3.0

PEX 0.8 3.0

PVC 1.2 3.0b
a. The maximum horizontal spacing of cast-iron pipe hangers shall be increased to 3.0 m where
3.0-m lengths of pipe are installed.
b. For sizes 50 mm and smaller, a guide shall be installed midway between required vertical
supports. Such guides shall prevent pipe movement in a direction perpendicular to the axis of
the pipe.

The hangers must also be of approved material that is properly

attached to the building construction to support the installation.
Here too, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s installation
instructions for the piping or tubing and the hanger.
Properly supporting the pipe whether underground or suspended
above ground will prevent imposed stresses and strains on the joints.
Such strains may also occur where the pipe passes through a founda-
tion. A primary way to protect the pipe is to install a pipe sleeve in the
foundation through which the pipe can pass. The pipe sleeve is to be
two-pipe sizes larger than the pipe passing through (e.g., a 100-mm
pipe will require a minimum 150-mm sleeve) (Figure 3-7).
Where the pipe extends through a foundation from within the
structure to the exterior, the
opening must be sealed to pre-
vent water and moisture intru-
sion.
PIPE SLEEVE
Plastic and copper mate-
rial are extremely vulnerable to
damage due to sheetrock nails
P 2 PIPE SIZES LARGER THAN P
and screws. For this reason,
such material that is installed
CAULKING REQUIRED within 40 mm from the edge of
framing members must be pro-
tected by means of steel shield
plates, typically known as nail
FIGURE 3-7 Foundation pipe sleeve
 I n t e r c e p t o r s a n d S e p a r a t o r s    3 3

plates, having a minimum thickness 16-gage steel shield plates

required to protect against
fastener penetration
of No. 16 gage (Figure 3-8).
Where a structure is located 50 mm
in a flood hazard area, portions of Plastic or
Drywall

copper DWV
the plumbing system may need to pipe
< 32 mm
be located above the flood eleva- < 32 mm
≥ 32 mm

tion level unless protected from the Fastener

Steel
shield
effects of flooding by preventing shield
plates not
plates
required
water from entering or accumulating this side

within any components, and protec-

tion from damage as a result of buoy- Drywall

Stud
ance. This could include portions of Plastic or copper
water pipe Bottom
the plumbing system such as drains plate ≥ 50 mm

and vents, fixtures, faucets and appli- 50 mm

ances. [Ref. SBC 701 - 301.2, 306, Wall

section

307, 308, 309, 315, Appendix C] FIGURE 3-8 Physical protection of concealed piping

INTERCEPTORS AND You Should

SEPARATORS Know
[Ref. SBC 701 - 1003] Definition for consider-
ation (see Glossary):
General requirements [Ref. SBC 701 - 1003.1] • Interceptor l
It is important to protect both the plumbing system of the structure,
as well as the public or private sewer. For this reason, one needs
to identify any wastes that might be detrimental to these systems.
There are some wastes that can be diluted or otherwise captured by
means of approved interceptors or separators that are identified in
the code. Provisions regarding grease and sand interceptors along
with oil separators are addressed.
As with all materials and products, it is important to follow the
manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions. The lack
of maintenance will eventually result in the interceptor or separator
to cease functioning. Since these units are designed for a specific
purpose, other wastes that do not contain grease, oil or sand shall
not discharge into an interceptor or separator.
Grease interceptors [Ref. SBC 701 - 1003.3]
Grease interception is required where grease-laden wastes are dis-
charged from fixtures and equipment in other than dwelling units.
This would apply to food preparation areas in commercial use appli-
cations such as restaurants and school kitchens (Figure 3-9).
The terms fixtures and equipment would include such things as
pot sinks, prerinse sinks, floor drains or floor sinks into which ket-
tles are drained and automatic hood wash units that allow fats, oils
or grease to be discharged.
3 4    C h a p t e r 3 I n s t a l l a t i o n

You Should
Know
Definitions for consider-
ation (see Glossary):
• Grease-laden waste
• Grease interceptor—
gravity
• Grease interceptor—
hydromechanical
• Grease removal
device; automatic
(GRD) l

FIGURE 3-9 Commercial kitchen

Gravity-type grease interceptors are generally large and most

often will be installed outside of a structure below ground (Figure
3-10).
Hydromechanical grease interceptors are typically smaller than
most gravity grease interceptors and may involve a series of baffles
that reduce the amount of time needed for separation by the gravity
type, but that means increased periodic maintenance (Figure 3-11).
Depending on the layout or site limitations of a commercial
food preparation area, it may be necessary to install more than one
grease interceptor. Interceptors may also include an automatic grease
removal device, and here too you will need to follow the manufactur-
er’s installation instructions for both the interceptor and the grease
removal device (Figure 3-12).
All grease interceptors must be
150 mm
designed, sized and installed in accor-
dance with the code and the man-
ufacturer’s instructions. SBC 701,
Table 1003.3.4.1 is used for sizing
925 mm gravity-type grease interceptors. It
identifies the grease retention capac-
180 mm
250 mm ity in pounds corresponding with
the total flow-through rating of the
610 mm interceptor (Table 3-3).
The flow into a grease intercep-
300 mm 200 mm tor is often controlled by a flow-con-
trol device that must be installed in
CAST IRON
LONG SWEEP
accordance with the manufacturer’s
1
/4 BEND FITTING
installation instructions. The vent
FIGURE 3-10 Typical gravity-type grease interceptor for the flow control must terminate
 I n t e r c e p t o r s a n d S e p a r a t o r s    3 5

You Should
Know
Manufacturer’s installa-
tion instructions are an
important part of not only
performing the installation
of a grease interceptor,
but also the plan review
and inspection of the
design and installation.
The installer must follow
the instructions and pro-
vide them to the code
FIGURE 3-11 Typical hydromechanical grease interceptor official during the review
and inspection process. l
STRAINER WIPER BLADE
ACCESS DOOR GREASE OUTLET
TROUGH LATCHED ACCESS COVER
SOLIDS STRAINER
INTERNAL GAS
TRAP

INLET OUTLET

STATIC LIQUID
COALESCING LEVEL
INLET BAFFLE
OUTLET BAFFLE

THERMOSTATICALLY
CONTROLLED SKIMMER
HEATER WHEEL

FIGURE 3-12 Timer-controlled grease recovery device

at least 150 mm above the flood rim level or per the manufacturer’s
instructions. Gravity grease interceptors are sized by multiplying the
peak liters per minute drain flow into the interceptor by a retention
time of 30 minutes. In any case, following the manufacturer’s instal-
lation instructions and verifying that the unit is sized in accordance
with the code is necessary. Many grease interceptor manufacturers
have sizing criteria available that can be compared with the code
requirements in order to verify compliance with the code prior to
installation.
Where food waste disposers discharge to a grease interceptor,
they must discharge through a solids interceptor before connecting
to the grease interceptor. Emulsifiers, chemicals or enzymes shall not
discharge into the food waste disposer. [Ref. SBC 701 - 1003.3]
3 6    C h a p t e r 3 I n s t a l l a t i o n

TABLE 3-3 Capacity of grease interceptors

You Should Total flow-through rating (Lpm) Grease retention capacity (kg)
Know 15 3.6
The local public sewer 23 5.5
utility or agency may 34 8
have specific regulations 57 14
or restrictions on the 23
95
use of interceptor per-
284 68
formance additives. The
code official will want 380 91
to work with such agen- For total flow-through ratings greater than 380 (Lpm), double the flow-through rating to determine
cies or utility districts the grease retention capacity (pounds)
to coordinate review,
inspection and mainte- Oil separators [Ref. SBC 701 - 103.4]
nance requirements for
An oil separator is required in vehicle service and repair garages
grease interceptors. l
where floor or trench drains are provided, as well as car-washing fa-
cilities (Figure 3-13). Areas within such garages that are used only for
storage of vehicles, and parking garages where servicing, repair and
washing are not conducted, are not required to drain to the separator.
Oil separators shall be designed with a minimum depth of
600 mm below the invert of the discharge drain and must provide a
minimum 500 mm water seal. Sizing the separator is rather simple
in that the separator must have not less than 0.18 m³ of area for the
first 10 m² of area being drained, and an additional 0.03 m³ of area
for each 10 m² thereafter (Figure 3-14). [Ref. SBC 701 - 1003.4]

CHEMICAL WASTES
[Ref. SBC 701 - 803, 901.3]
Chemical wastes may include acids or other corrosive liquids that
must be diluted prior to discharging to the sanitary drainage sys-
tem. Such chemicals could even create noxious or toxic fumes. An
approved dilution or neutralizing device that automatically supplies
sufficient amounts of water for this purpose may be necessary. The
drainage system conveying the wastes to the approved dilution or
neutralizing device shall be installed in accordance with the code for
drainage systems. Since the wastes can be corrosive, the types of ma-
terials chosen for the drainage system must be resistant to corrosion.
The chemical waste vent system must be independent of the
sanitary vent system and shall terminate through the roof to the out-
doors, or to an air admittance valve that conforms to ASSE 1049 and
has been tested for chemical resistance. [Ref. SBC 701 - 803, 901.3]
 C h e m i c a l W a s t e s    3 7

FIGURE 3-13 Vehicle repair garage

30 480 mm

Tool and storage area not 3048 mm

required to have floor drainage.

Bay 1 Bay 2 Bay 3 Bay 4 Bay 5

6096 mm

This 278.7 m2 repair garage contains 5 vehicle repair bays with floor drains discharging to the oil separator.
The floor area of the bays is 185.8 m², which requires an oil separator of at least 0.7 m3 in size in accordance
with Section 1003.4.2.2.

FIGURE 3-14 Repair garage drainage

3 8    C h a p t e r 3 I n s t a l l a t i o n

QUIZ
1. Trenches that are parallel and next to the foundation ___________.
a. are not allowed by the code
b. shall be a minimum of 1500 mm horizontally from the edge
of the footing
c. cannot extend below the 45-degree bearing plane of the
footing wall

2. When backfilling to cover piping installed in a trench, clean fill

shall be placed and tamped in maximum 150 mm layers to a depth
of 300 mm before completing the fill process.
a. True
b. False

3. Grease interception is required ____________________________.

a. in Group A-2 occupancies only
b. for food service establishments equipped with deep fryers
c. where grease-laden wastes are discharged from fixtures and
equipment in other than dwelling units
CHAPTER
Design
4

A
n important part of the planning stage is determining what
plumbing fixtures are required based on the occupancy or use
of the building, as well as the number of such fixtures based on
the number of occupants. Once that has been determined, the layout of
the rooms containing the fixtures can be finalized by considering the
minimum spacing and access required for each fixture. This chapter cov-
ers various elements of plumbing systems that must be considered in
design, such as fixture clearances, water heaters, food preparations and
many other related topics.

39
4 0    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

MINIMUM PLUMBING FIXTURES

You Should [Ref. SBC 701 - 403, 404, 405, 410]
Know The minimum fixture requirements of SBC 701, Section 403 are
Definitions for consider- included in Chapter 29 of SBC 201 for use by the designer of the
ation (see Glossary): structure. Nonetheless, it would be good to look at some of the ba-
• Dwelling unit sic provisions regarding what plumbing fixtures and facilities are
• Private required.
• Public or public A detached single-family home as well as individual dwelling
utilization l units in multifamily structures such as townhouses, apartments
and condominiums will require at least one water closet, one lava-
tory, either a bathtub or shower, and a kitchen sink. SBC 701, Table
403.1 provides the minimum number of required plumbing fixtures
for different types of occupancies or uses. The required fixtures are
Code based on (1) the classification of the structure or use, (2) the specific
Essentials description within the classification, and (3) the occupant load of the
space or structure. Chapter 3 of SBC 201 outlines the various group
The minimum plumbing occupancy classifications and provides descriptions of the uses that
facilities provisions of may fall within those classifications. For instance, an office would
Section 403 are also con- typically fall within a Group B occupancy. This could include more
tained in Chapter 29 of SBC than just a business office. It could also include a canine kennel, an
201. Other necessary provi- animal hospital or a car wash. The code official must determine the
sions in SBC 201 that must occupancy type in cases where the exact description is not clearly
be considered regarding identified. Chapter 10 of SBC 201 is used for calculating the occupant
minimum plumbing facili- load of a structure or space. Always refer to the detailed plans that
ties are: have been approved by the local jurisdiction for the group occupancy
• Chapter 3 – Occupancy classification, the occupant load, and the number and location of
classification and use the required plumbing fixtures and facilities. Note also that seasonal
• Chapter 10, Section outdoor seating and entertainment areas are to be included in the
1004 – Occupant load total occupant load.
• Chapter 11 – One of the considerations SBC 701, Table 403.1 addresses is the
Accessibility number of toilet facilities for male and female use in certain occu-
pancies. A theater or a stadium where the attendees tend to use the
restrooms during an intermission will require more toilet facilities
for female use than for male use, but such would not be necessary
for a restaurant where restroom use is intermittent for both sexes.
As an example, a church with an occupant load of 300 (150 male, 150
female) will require 2 water closets for men and 4 water closets for
women, a slight increase for female use since restroom use is more
common during, before or after services or during an intermission.
Yet, a restaurant will not require more water closets for female use
than male use due to intermittent use (Table 4-1).
Additionally, urinals may be used in place of required water clos-
ets, provided that not more than 67 percent of the required water
closets are substituted with urinals in assembly and educational
occupancies, and not more than 50 percent in all other occupancies.
 M i n i m u m P l u m b i n g F i x t u r e s    4 1

TABLE 4-1 Minimum fixtures

Classification Description Water closets Lavatories
Assembly Group Male: 1 per 150 Male: 1 per 200
Church
A-3 Female: 1 per 75 Female: 1 per 200
Assembly Group Movie Theater Male: 1 per 125 Male: 1 per 200
A-1 Female: 1 per 65 Female: 1 per 200
Assembly Group Male: 1 per 75 Male: 1 per 200
Restaurant
A-2 Female: 1 per 75 Female: 1 per 200
Mercantile Male: 1 per 500 Male: 1 per 750
Retail Store
Group M Female: 1 per 500 Female: 1 per 750

Separate restrooms are required for male and female use except
for individual dwelling units and sleeping units. Keep in mind that
occupant load includes employees and customers. SBC 201 provides
details as to when family or assisted use toilet and bathing facilities
are required along with accessibility requirements. Required lavato-
ries are to be located in the same room as the required water closet(s)
where the plumbing facilities are provided for public or employee use.
Drinking fountains are required where the occupant load exceeds
15. Where drinking fountains are required, two drinking fountains
are to be installed; one at a level for people who use a wheelchair and
one for standing persons. A single drinking fountain with two sepa-
rate spouts at the two required levels will meet this provision (Figure
4-1). Here again, one must refer to SBC 201 as to the proper location
of drinking fountains, especially with regard to travel distance, mul-
tistory occupancies and accessibility requirements. [Ref. SBC 701
- 403.1, 403.1.1, 403.1.2, 403.2, 404.1, 405.3.2, 410.2, 410.3]

FIGURE 4-1 Accessible drinking fountain

4 2    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

HOT WATER REQUIREMENTS AND

TEMPERATURE LIMITING
[Ref. SBC 701 - 607]
You Should Certain fixtures are required to have hot or tempered water depend-
Know ing on the use of the fixture and whether it is in a residential or
Definitions for consider- nonresidential occupancy. Hot water is to be provided to fixtures
ation (see Glossary): and equipment utilized for bathing, washing, culinary purposes,
• Hot water cleansing, laundry or building maintenance in all occupancies with
• Tempered water l the following exceptions: (1) in nonresidential occupancies, fixtures
and equipment utilized for bathing or washing may be served by ei-
ther hot or tempered water, and (2) tempered water is required for
lavatories and group wash fixtures in public toilet facilities provided
to customers, patrons and visitors. Since the temperature of water
for domestic use is not to exceed 60°C from the water heating source,
the temperature must be limited at the fixture. The appropriate
temperature-limiting devices will be discussed as it applies to specific
fixtures later in this chapter.
Of course, the further the distance from the water heating source
to the outlet, the more likely that the temperature of the water will
decrease along the way. There are a few provisions to keep in mind
with regard to maintaining the temperature and reducing the wait
time for hot or tempered water at the fixture. Hot or tempered water
piping cannot exceed 15 m from the heating source to the fixture.
Hot water Cold water
However, circulation sys-
tems or heat trace sys-
tems are commonly used
15 m to furthest fixture
in larger occupancies.
Water heater
These are considered the
heat source, so the 15 m
length can be measured
from the branch connec-
tion to the circulation
system or heat trace sys-
tem (Figure 4-2).
15m to furthest fixture Hot water Cold water A means for control-
ling thermal expansion
is required for water dis-
Water
Heater
tribution systems served
Water heater
Circulation pump by a storage-type water
heater that is supplied
Check valve with cold water that pass-
es through a check valve,
pressure reducing valve

FIGURE 4-2 Hot water branch length

 H o t W a t e r R e q u i r e m e n t s a n d Te m p e r a t u r e L i m i t i n g    4 3

or backflow preventer. Such

Hot water Cold water
expansion control prevents
Backflow preventor,
reverse flow due to expand- check valve or
ing pressure of water during pressure reducing valve
the water heating process. In
many locations, water meters Thermal Expansion Tank

include a check valve. The most

Water heater
common means for controlling
thermal expansion is a thermal
expansion tank. It is important
to follow the manufacturer’s
installation instructions, espe-
cially with regard to sizing of
the expansion tank. SBC 701
requires the expansion tank to
be installed on the cold water
supply pipe to the water heater
(Figures 4-3 and 4-4).
With regard to the flow of FIGURE 4-3 Thermal expansion tank
hot or tempered water at the
fixture, faucets shall be con-
nected to the water distribution system such that the flow of hot or
tempered water corresponds to the left-hand side and the flow of cold
water corresponds to the right-hand side (Figure 4-5).
The exception is for individual balanced-pressure, thermostatic or
combination balanced-pressure/thermostatic shower control valves
where the flow of hot or cold water corresponds to the markings on
the device (Figure 4-6). [Ref. SBC 701 - 607]

FIGURE 4-4 Thermal expansion

control device

FIGURE 4-5 Two-handle faucet FIGURE 4-6 Shower control valve

 4 4    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

WATER HEATERS
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 5]

Installation [Ref. SBC 701 - 502]

Water heaters require periodic servicing and maintenance. For this
reason water heaters need to be installed such that they can be ob-
served and accessed when necessary without removing permanent
construction. This also applies to removal and replacement of the
water heater. This is especially important where a water heater is
located in an attic. The access opening into the attic must be large
enough to remove the water heater, but in no case less than 550
mm by 750 mm. A passageway of not more than 6000 mm is to be
provided with solid flooring at least 610 mm in width, as well as a
You Should
Know
Definition for consideration
(see Glossary): Plan view of attic access

• Water heater l

Minimum
Water Minimum 550 mm x 750 mm
750 mm x 750 mm Minimum 610 mm
Heater access opening
service platform

Maximum 6,000 mm

FIGURE 4-7 Attic installation

minimum of 550 mm in height. The flooring must include a mini-

mum 750 mm by 750 mm level service space (Figure 4-7).
Support of the water heater is very important. One hundred
ninety liters of water alone will weigh some 181.6 kg, and a standard
storage-type water heater of 151.4 L, 189.25 L, or 227.1 L capacity
will be much taller than it is wide—even more so if the water heater
is elevated on a stand where required in accordance with SBC 501
or SBC 1201. Thus, where subject to seismic activity, water heaters
must be secured in accordance with SBC 201. In most cases, a manu-
factured water heater seismic bracing kit will be sufficient (Figure
4-8). It is also important to protect the water heater from damage.
For instance, where installed in a garage of a residence, it must be
located out of the path of the vehicle or otherwise protected from
FIGURE 4-8 Water heater bracing vehicle impact.
Since water heaters come in many types, shapes and sizes, it is
important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 501.4, 502.1, 502.1.1, 502.3, 502.4]
 W a t e r H e a t e r s    4 5

Safety devices [Ref. SBC 701 - 504] A vacuum relief valve is

required here if the dip tube
does not have a hole at the
Often, the water heater is located at an eleva- top. Vacuum relief valve
tion above the outlet of one or more of the
fixtures it serves. The vacuum created should Water Water
Heater
Heater
the contents be drained from a lower eleva-
tion without allowing incoming air into the Dip Cold water
supply
tube
tank can cause damage to the water heater.
A vacuum relief valve is required for water
heaters that do not include a “dip” tube with
a hole at the top. The “dip” tube is common
with most water heaters having the cold-
Top-fed Water Heater Bottom-fed Water Heater
water supply connected at the top of the
tank. Bottom-fed water heaters do not have FIGURE 4-9 Vacuum relief
the “dip” tube, so they do require the vacuum
relief valve (Figure 4-9).
Pressure in a closed water distribution system will increase dur- Code
ing the heating process of a storage type water heater. For this reason Essentials
storage water heaters require the installation of a self-closing relief SBC 701 addresses hot
valve that will open to relieve the pressure if necessary. Most com- water temperature storage
mon are the combination temperature and pressure relief valves that and distribution or delivery
are set to open at a temperature of 99°C or at a pressure of 1,035 kPa. with the goal of reducing
The relief valve is to be installed in the designated opening of the hazards to occupants from:
water heater shell in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation • Hot water scald injury
instructions. This opening will be located at the top portion of the • The spread of Legionella
tank so that the relief valve is placed where it will be in contact with bacteria
the top 150 mm of stored water within the tank (Figure 4-10). • Slip or fall injury due to
Where a water heater serves both the potable hot water distri- thermal shock l
bution system to the fix-
tures and for space heating,
and where the temperature
needed for space heating is
higher than 60°C, a master
150 mm
thermostatic mixing valve
that conforms to ASSE Water
1017 is required to limit Heater
the temperature of the
potable hot water system
to a maximum 60°C. The
potability of the hot water
distribution system serv-
ing fixtures must be main-
tained. For instance, tubing
used in a radiant heating FIGURE 4-10 Temperature- and pressure-relief valve installation
system that is served by the
same water heater would need to be of material approved for potable
water as well as the possible need to circulate the water in order
to prevent stagnation during non-heating seasons. It is important
4 6    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

to remember that the ASSE 1017 mas-

Hot
ter thermostatic mixing valve does not
Cold
supersede the requirement for install-
ing the point-of-use thermostatic mix-
ing valves for certain fixtures, such as
showers and bathtubs. [Ref. SBC 701
Storage-type
Water heater - 501.2, 504.1, 504.2, 504.4, 504.4.1,
504.5]

Relief valve
Relief valve discharge [Ref.
discharge
to pan
SBC 701 - 504.6]
The discharge line for the relief valve
Pan of galvanized steel, aluminum, plastic
or approved material
Drain to discharge to
waste receptor (floor
must be at least the diameter of the re-
drain) or to exterior
Drain not required for
Materials subject to lief valve outlet and shall not be reduced
water damage
replacement water
heater if there is no
in size downstream of the valve or have
existing drain a check valve or any other type of valve
that could prevent the release of the
FIGURE 4-11 Pan required for storage-type water heaters discharge. It cannot terminate with a
where leaks will cause damage
threaded connection. Where the tubing
utilizes insert-type fittings, the tubing
You Should must be increased one pipe-size to meet the minimum diameter re-
quirement. The termination can be to the exterior of the structure,
Know to a waste receptor, to the water heater’s drain pan, or to the floor.
Question: Can a relief However, where the relief line discharges outside of the room where
discharge terminate to a the water heater is located, it must be provided with an air gap. All
garage floor that is sloped portions of the relief line are to drain by means of gravity (Figures
toward the exterior at the 4-11 and 4-12).
garage door? SBC 701
states that the relief valve Water
Heater

may discharge to the floor.

Water
It also states that it cannot Heater Relief valve
discharge in a way that will Air gap
not cause structural dam- Drain pan
age. So, terminating to a
floor that is sloped to a
floor drain is acceptable.
SBC 701 does not speak
to personal property dam-
age, such as items that may First story

be located on a garage
floor. The code official
must determine whether 150 mm–610 mm
termination to a sloped Ground level

garage floor is acceptable,

provided that no structural
damage will occur. l

FIGURE 4-12 Relief valve and pan drain termination

 F i x t u r e C l e a r a n c e s a n d S p a c e R e q u i r e m e n t s    4 7

The termination must be at a point where readily visible to the

building occupants and shall serve only that one relief valve. The
termination point must not be more than 150 mm above the floor or
flood level rim of the receptor, and one must be careful to maintain
the required air gap when discharging to a receptor. Air gap require-
ments will be discussed in Chapter 9. [Ref. SBC 701 - 504.6]
Drain pan [Ref. SBC 701 - 504.7]
Storage-type water heaters shall be installed in a drain pan where
leakage from the tank can cause damage (Figure 4-11). The pan must
be of approved materials, most often these being plastic, galvanized
steel or aluminum. However, a plastic drain pan shall not be installed
beneath a gas-fired water heater. The drain pan must be of sufficient
size and shape to capture leaking water or condensation from the
tank. The minimum depth of the drain pan is 40 mm and must have
a minimum 20-mm drain and indirect waste piping terminating to a
waste receptor, a floor drain or the exterior of the structure. Where
the drain extends to the exterior, it must terminate at least 150 mm,
but not more than 610 mm above the adjacent ground (Figure 4-12).
When replacing an existing water heater, a drain pan is not
required. It may well be that a drain pan was not in place with the
existing water heater, and the installation of a drain pan and its drain
pipe in existing construction may not be feasible. [Ref. SBC 701 -
504.7]

FIXTURE CLEARANCES AND SPACE

REQUIREMENTS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 303, 403, 405, 410, 417]
SBC 201 and SBC 501 outline the requirements for lighting, ventila-
tion and finished surfaces in rooms containing plumbing fixtures,
such as bathrooms and restrooms. SBC 701 also requires floors and
walls for showers, including bathtub-shower enclosures, to be con-
structed of smooth, nonabsorbent waterproof materials, and such
wall surface is to extend to at least 1.8 m above the tub or shower
drain. The shower access and egress opening shall not be less than
600 mm in width, except for such fixtures that are required to
comply with the accessibility provisions of SBC 201. Along with an
understanding of those requirements, during the planning stage of
a construction project the designer must take into consideration the
dimensions required for certain fixtures and appliances as well as the
access to them. Plumbing fixtures and the piping serving them must
be installed in such a manner that affords access for use and for clean-
ing of and around the fixture and are to be set level and in proper
alignment with adjacent walls.
Water closets, urinals, lavatories and bidets require a minimum
clearance of 375 mm from center to the side and 750 mm in front
4 8    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

from obstructions, such as walls, partitions, vani-

ties or doors (Figure 4-13). The space for a floor-
mounted water closet compartment must be a
minimum 750 mm by 1500 mm, or 750 mm by

minimum

minimum
375 mm

375 mm
1400 mm for a wall-hung water closet (Figure
4-14).
Where multiple water closets are installed in
a restroom designed for the public or employees,
each such fixture shall be enclosed in a separate
Vanity compartment with walls or partitions, and a door
WC to ensure privacy. The minimum space require-
ments will apply to each compartment. Also, public
or employee restrooms containing multiple uri-
minimum

minimum
375 mm

375 mm

CL
750 mm
CL
750 mm
CL nals shall include partitions between urinals. The
minimum minimum partition must extend at least 150 mm beyond
the front lip of the urinal, but not less than
525 mm
LAV
500 mm overall, and shall be not less than 300
minimum
WC Bidet
mm above the floor at its lowest point to a
525 mm 525 mm
height not less than 1500 mm. Note that each
minimum minimum partition for a water closet or urinal must main-
tain the minimum 750-mm width (Figure 4-15).
The required lavatories serving water closets
Installation of fixtures
and urinals in public and employee restrooms
FIGURE 4-13 Bathroom fixture clearances

1500 mm - Floor mounted 500 mm

1400 mm - Wall hung 150 mm

750 mm
500 mm 150 mm

FIGURE 4-14 Water closet compartment

1500 mm

375 mm 300 mm

FIGURE 4-15 Urinal partitions

 F i x t u r e C l e a r a n c e s a n d S p a c e R e q u i r e m e n t s    4 9

must be located in the same room as the required water closet.

Keep in mind that these dimensions may not apply to fixtures Code
required to meet the accessibility provisions of SBC 201. Where Essentials
multiple lavatories are installed, they shall not be closer than
Minimum fixture clearances:
750 mm from center to center. One more thing to note is that drink-
1. For water closets, uri-
ing fountains, water coolers and water dispensers are not to be
nals, lavatories and
installed in public restrooms.
bidets,
Shower compartments and enclosures that are not required to
• 375 mm from center
meet accessibility provisions shall be a minimum interior area of
to any side wall,
0.60 m² with the least dimension of 0.75 m being maintained, and
partition or cabinet
this interior area dimension shall be maintained to a height of not
• 750 mm center-to-
less than 1.8 m above the shower drain. There is an exception for a
center for side-by-
shower enclosure to have a minimum width of 650 mm, but the over-
side fixtures without
all interior cross-sectional area must be at least 0.84 m² (Figure 4-16).
partitions between
[Ref. SBC 701 - 310, 403.3.2, 403.3.4, 403.3.5, 410.5, 417.4]
them
• 525 mm in front of
the fixture
2. 750 mm x 1500 mm for
635 mm 0.75 m water closet compart-
ments (floor mounted)
3. 750 mm x 1400 mm for
water closet compart-
0.60 m2
minimum
0.75 m ments (wall hung type)
interior area
0.84 m2 4. Minimum shower interior
(with a minimum
dimension area is 0.60 m² with a
of not less 600 mm
than 650 mm) minimum width of 0.75 m
l
600 mm

General rule minimum

Alternate minimum shower shower dimensions
dimensions (approximate finish
dimensions of bathtub)
FIGURE 4-16 Minimum shower dimensions
5 0    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

GENERAL FIXTURE PROVISIONS

[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 4, 401, 402]

Approved fixtures [Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 4]

The applicable product standards for various types of fixtures and
appliances are included in SBC 701, Chapter 15 and are also identi-
fied in the particular code sections where the fixture or appliance is
addressed. Health and safety are enhanced by means of both cleaning
and proper function of plumbing fixtures. So, being manufactured of
FIGURE 4-17 Lavatory with
smooth, impervious surface approved materials that have smooth, impervious surfaces and are
designed in such a way to facilitate cleaning of the fixture is impor-
tant to a healthy environment (Figure 4-17). Specialty fixtures may
also be made of other materials, such as stainless steel and soap-
stone. Faucets shall conform to the ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1
product standard, and where used for the supply of drinking water
for human ingestion, they must also conform to NSF 61, Section 9.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 401.2, 401.3, 402, 419.1]
Installation [Ref. SBC 701 - 405]
Fixtures and faucets must be installed
Water
Closet
in accordance with the manufacturer’s
installation instructions and shall not
be installed in a way that interferes with
Shower
the operation of doors and windows. As
Lavatory an example, the minimum egress into a
shower enclosure is 600 mm. Care must
be exercised when installing a water
Obstruction results in
closet or lavatory vanity near a shower
shower egress being
less than the required
600 mm
to make sure the minimum egress is
maintained (Figure 4-18). Where fix-
tures come in contact with floor, wall
FIGURE 4-18 Shower egress or counter surfaces, such joints are to
be sealed water-tight to prevent wa-
ter intrusion during use
or when cleaning (Figure
4-19). [Ref. SBC 701 -
405.3.3, 405.5]

FIGURE 4-19 Joints between fixtures and walls or floors

 G e n e r a l F i x t u r e P r o v i s i o n s    5 1

Water closets, urinals, lavatories and bidets

[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 4,
607.1]
Water closet fixture
The most common water clos-
ets are the floor-mount type
Closet screws to be
where the fixture is secured of copper alloy
to a floor flange fitting. The
flange is itself a drainage fit-
ting that must be properly
connected to the drainage pip-
ing, but it also needs to be se-
cured to the floor construction. Corrosion-resistant
Where the flange is mounted screws or bolts
Closet flange
to wood constructed floor
decking, corrosion-resistant
screws or bolts are to be used. FIGURE 4-20 Securing water closet and flange
Then, the fixture itself is se-
cured to the flange with copper
allow closet screws bolts (Fig-
ure 4-20). With the fixture se-
curely fastened it can be sealed
watertight at the joint between
the fixture and the floor. Wall-
hung water closet connections
require an approved metal car-
rier that is properly connected
to the drainage system and se-
cured to the building structural
members (Figure 4-21). Once
secured, the joint between the
FIGURE 4-21 Wall-hung toilet carrier
fixture and the wall must be
sealed watertight. For both
floor-mounted and wall-hung
water closets, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s installa-
tion instructions.
Water closets for public or employee use shall be of the elongated
bowl type with open-front seats (Figure 4-22). This is not required
for private use where the fixture is intended to be used by an indi-
vidual or a family, such as in a residence or private hotel rooms. For
instance, if a small business includes a single-occupant restroom for
employees, because it is not limited to an individual or a family, the
water closet must be of the elongated bowl type with an open-front
seat.
Water closets and urinals are designed to be self-siphoning, thus
they must be provided with flushing devices that will not only provide
a sufficient volume and flow of water to flush and rinse the bowl, but
also replenish enough water within the bowl to maintain a trap seal FIGURE 4-22 Elongated bowl with
open-front seat
5 2    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

when the flushing process is completed. Here again it is important

to adhere to the manufacturer’s installation instructions for either
the flush-tank type of water closet or those equipped with a flush-
ometer valve. These approved fixtures and devices (i.e., the ballcock
assembly for a tank-type water closet and flushometer valves serving
water closets and urinals) are designed for both the proper flushing
process and to prevent backflow into the potable water distribution
system (Figure 4-23).
Proper securing of urinals, lavatories and bidets is equally
important, as is the proper installation of the valves. As is the
case with a wall-hung water closet, an approved carrier is required
for wall-hung urinals and lavatories (Figure 4-24). Here again, it
is absolutely necessary to follow the manufacturer’s installation
instructions for the fixture and the valves, and to properly seal the
FIGURE 4-23 Flushometer valve
joints at walls, counters and floors. Water temperature to a bidet
must be limited to a maximum temperature of
43°C by means of a temperature-limiting device
conforming to ASSE 1070 or CSA B125.3 (Figure
4-25 and Table 4-2). Hot water is required for
lavatories (hand wash sinks or group wash fix-
tures). However, tempered water is required for
lavatories and group wash fixtures in public toilet
facilities provided to customers, patrons and visi-
tors. The hot water temperature must be limited
to meet the tempered water range by means of a
temperature-limiting device conforming to ASSE
1070 or CSA B125.3 (Figure 4-25 and Table 4-2).

FIGURE 4-24 Wall-hung lavatories

Temperature of the
water supplied is
reduced

Hot water supply

Cold water supply

Temperature mixing valve

FIGURE 4-25 Mixing valve installation

 G e n e r a l F i x t u r e P r o v i s i o n s    5 3

TABLE 4-2 Hot water temperature limiting requirements

Maximum
You Should
Type of Fixture
Temperature
Required Device Know
Individual shower control valve conforming to SBC 701 requires the hot
ASSE 1016/ASME A112.1016/CSA B125.16
Shower 50°C water to be limited to cer-
or
ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 tain fixtures by means of a
Thermostatic mixing valve conforming to temperature limiting device
Bathtub or whirlpool ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70 conforming to ASSE 1070
50°C
bathtub filler or
CSA B125.3
or CSA B125.3. A term
often used in referring to
Thermostatic mixing valve conforming to
ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70 these devices is point of
Bidet 43°C
or use. It is common that the
CSA B125.3 device will be located at
Thermostatic mixing valve conforming to or near the fixture or fix-
ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70
Head shampoo sink 49°C
or
tures, the term point of use
CSA B125.3 is not used or defined in
Footbath/Pedicure Thermostatic mixing valve conforming to the code. A strict applica-
bath
49°C
ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70 tion of that term should
or not be applied in this
CSA B125.3
case. Some temperature
limiting valves conform to
both the ASSE 1070 stan-
dard as well as the ASSE
1017 standard that applies
Neither tempered water nor hot water temperature limitation is
to such valves located at
required for lavatories in other locations, such as medical exam
the water heating source
rooms, hand wash sinks in commercial kitchens, lavatories in toilet
as discussed in SBC 701,
rooms serving employees only, etc. Hot water temperature limita-
Section 501.2.
tions is discussed further in the Water Heaters section. [Ref. SBC
Therefore, it is important to
701 - 405.4, 408, 416, 420, 425, 607.1]
verify that the temperature
Bathtubs and showers [Ref. SBC 701 - 417, 421, 424] mixing valve being installed
Bathtubs shall have a minimum drain outlet, fixture drain and trap of conforms to the appli-
not less than 40 mm and must be equipped with a water-tight stop- cable standard for the use
per. It is common to have a combination bathtub/shower enclosure, intended and is installed
and the control valve for this combination fixture must be that ap- in accordance with the
proved for a shower control (see the discussion on showers). Where manufacturer’s installation
the bathtub is supplied by a bathtub fill valve (Figure 4-26), the hot instructions which will
water temperature to the valve must be limited to not more than 50°C likely include sizing and
by means of a temperature-limiting device conforming to ASSE 1070 maximum distance of the
or CSA B125.3 (Figure 4-25 and Table 4-2). Bathtub fill valves may valve from the fixture(s)
also include a hand-held shower attachment. Since the hand-held being served. l
shower wand can be submerged below the flood-rim of the fixture,
the device must meet the backflow protection requirements of ASME
A112.18.3. However, where the bathtub fill valve comes with the
5 4    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

hand-held shower attachment

as a unit and conforms to the
ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1
product standard, it will have
been tested in accordance with
ASME A112.18.3 for backflow
protection.
Whirlpool bathtub circu-
lation pumps must be acces-
sible for servicing. Here again
it is important to follow the
manufacturer’s installation
instructions as to the location
of the pump as well as the
pump access opening. Where
such instructions are not spec-
FIGURE 4-26 Bathtub fill valve ified, a minimum 300 mm by
300 mm access shall be provid-
ed. Where the pump is located
more than 600 mm from the
access opening, the opening must be at least 450 mm by 450 mm.
In either case, the opening needs to be large enough to permit
unobstructed access to the circulation pump for service or removal
and replacement. A door or panel is permitted to close the opening
(Figure 4-27).
Showers shall also be provided with a drain outlet, fixture drain
and trap of not less than 40 mm. Individual control valves, including
individual combination tub-shower control valves, are required to
be of the balanced-pressure, thermostatic or combination balanced-
pressure/thermostat-
ic valves, and must be
equipped with a means
Pump to limit the maximum
≤ 600 mm motor One unobstructed access
opening required setting of the valve to
Minimum
300 mm x 300 mm
50°C. The control valve
Opening size per manufacturer
opening Whirlpool or based on distance from
must conform to ASSE
tub access to pump 1016/ASME A112.1016/
CSA B125.16 or ASME
> 600 mm Opening size must allow
removal of pump
A112.18.1/CSA B125.1
Door or (Figure 4-28 and Table
removable Minimum 4-2). Basically, this type
panel 450 mm x 450 mm of approved control
opening

FIGURE 4-27 Two options for access to whirlpool pump

 G e n e r a l F i x t u r e P r o v i s i o n s    5 5

valve will not be the basic two-handle control valve that supplies hot
water on the left side and cold water on the right side. So, you can- You Should
not use an in-line temperature limiting device to limit the hot water Know
temperature to a shower outlet. The shower control
Since the shower riser outlet is typically installed by means of a valve must be of the
threaded goose-neck fitting to the rough-in piping outlet within the balanced-pressure, ther-
shower wall cavity, it stands to reason that the shower riser piping in mostatic or combination
the wall cavity needs to be secured sufficiently to prevent damage due balanced-pressure/ther-
to the twisting action when installing the goose-neck fitting (Figure mostatic type due to the
4-29). [Ref. SBC 701 - 417.2, 417.3, 421.5, 424.3, 424.4] risk of injury to users as
a result of slips or falls
resulting from sudden
temperature changes,
either hot or cold – ther-
mal shock. A bathtub
with a hand-held shower
wand does not present
the same risk because
the user can quickly turn
the wand in the event of
a sudden temperature
change as opposed to
a bather facing a fixed
shower head. l

FIGURE 4-28 Shower control valve

5 6    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

FIGURE 4-29 Securing shower riser

Kitchen sinks [Ref. SBC 701 - 418, 424]

Typical residential use kitchen sinks require a minimum 40-mm
drain outlet, fixture drain and trap, even though they may contain
more than one compartment. Still, the outlets can be connected to
a single tailpiece, fixture drain and trap of not less than 40 mm. It is
common to have a hand-held spray attachment on a kitchen sink fau-
cet. Similar to what was discussed regarding bathtub fill valves with
a hand-held shower attachment, kitchen sink faucets also must meet
the ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 product standard. Such faucets
that include the spray attachment
will have been tested as conform-
ing to the ASME A112.18.3 stan-
dard for protection from backflow
(Figure 4-30). [Ref. SBC 701 -
418.2, 424.1]
Food waste disposers
[Ref. SBC 701 - 413, 1003]
Food waste disposers, whether
domestic or commercial, require
a minimum 40-mm drain. While
a domestic food waste disposer
can be connected to a sink com-
partment, commercial food waste
disposers must be connected and
trapped separately from fixtures or
FIGURE 4-30 Faucet with spray attachment sink compartments. All food waste
 G e n e r a l F i x t u r e P r o v i s i o n s    5 7

disposers must be supplied with cold water.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s
installation instructions. One thing to keep in
mind when it comes to commercial food waste
disposers is that they cannot discharge to a
grease interceptor (Figure 4-31). [Ref. SBC
701 - 413, 1003.3.2]
Dishwashers [Ref. SBC 701 - 409, 802]
A minimum 40-mm drain and trap is required
Commercial food
for a domestic dishwasher. Commercial dish- waste disposer
washers may require a larger fixture drain and
trap if the fixture unit value exceeds 2 drain-
age fixture units as determined in accordance
with Section 709. The drain from a domestic FIGURE 4-31 Commercial food waste disposer
dishwasher may connect to a wye fitting in the
sink tailpiece or to the domestic food waste
disposer. The drain tubing from the dishwasher must rise to the
underside of the counter and be fastened to stay in place. Care is in
order to make sure the drain tubing radius does not cause the tubing
to kink or otherwise restrict the flow (Figure 4-32). Since commercial
dishwashers do not connect to the sink, they must discharge indi-
rectly to a waste receptor, thus providing an air break at a minimum.
In most cases, dishwashers will include backflow protection that is
integral to the machine itself. If such protection is not integral to the
dishwasher, a backflow preventer must be installed. [Ref. SBC 701
- 409.2, 802.1.6, 802.1.7]

Single- or double- Drain line looped up Single- or double- Drain line looped up
compartment to underside of counter compartment to underside of counter
kitchen sink kitchen sink

Food-waste Dishwashing Dishwashing

disposer machine machine
with integral with integral
air gap air gap

Min. 40 mm drain and trap Min. 40 mm drain and trap

Dishwasher drain connected Dishwasher drain connected

directly to food-waste disposer to sink tail piece through
WYE fitting

FIGURE 4-32 Dishwasher drain

5 8    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

Clothes washers and laundry trays [Ref. SBC 701 -

406, 412, 418, 802]
The waste from residential clothes washers will typically be by means
of a pump that discharges indirectly into a standpipe, thus providing
an air break. A minimum fixture drain, trap and standpipe for a resi-
dential clothes washer is 50 mm. However, the residential automatic
clothes washer drain
Air break may also discharge into
a laundry tray. Because
Air break
the laundry tray com-
50 mm partment is quite large,
Clothes
Washer
Clothes
Washer
Laundry
tray
there is no requirement
in the code to increase
the size of the fixture
40 mm drain and trap for the
FIGURE 4-33 Laundry drainage laundry sink, which is
a minimum 40-mm fix-
ture drain and trap for one and two com-
partment laundry sinks (Figure 4-33).
Commercial clothes washers require a
minimum 75-mm fixture drain and trap.
Commercial clothes washers are more likely
to drain by gravity, discharging into a floor
sink or trench drain. As with dishwashers,
in most cases automatic clothes washers
will include backflow protection that is
integral to the machine itself. If such pro-
tection is not integral to the clothes wash-
er, a backflow preventer must be installed.
Note also that in public, coin-operat-
ed laundry facilities and central washing
FIGURE 4-34 Shampoo sinks facilities of multiple-family dwellings, such
rooms are to be provided with floor drains
for the purpose of readily draining the
entire floor area. Floor drains for this pur-
pose shall have an outlet of not less than
75 mm. [Ref. SBC 701 - 406, 412.4, 418,
802.3.3]
Shampoo sinks and
footbaths [Ref. SBC 701 - 423]
Head shampoo sinks (Figure 4-34), foot-
baths and pedicure baths (Figure 4-35) are
fixtures where one must be cautious due to
the use of hot water. For this reason, these
types of fixtures must have the hot water
FIGURE 4-35 Footbaths temperature to the valve limited to not
 G e n e r a l F i x t u r e P r o v i s i o n s    5 9

more than 49°C by means of a temperature-limiting device conform-

ing to ASSE 1070 or CSA B125.3 (Figure 4-25 and Table 4-2). As with
the spray attachment on a kitchen sink, the faucet for a shampoo
sink meeting the ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 product standard will
include the spray attachment that will have been tested as conform-
ing to the ASME A112.18.3 standard for protection from backflow.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 423.3]
Floor drains, standpipes and other waste
receptors [Ref. SBC 701 - 412, 802, 1002]
Floor drains, trench drains, floor sinks, hub drains and standpipes
are waste receptors that receive wastes from fixtures and appliances
that discharge by means of an indirect waste pipe. Floor drains are
often installed for emergency purposes, such as flooding caused by a
fixture overflow or appliance failure. They are prohibited from being
installed in plenums, crawl spaces, attics, or interstitial spaces above
ceilings and below floors. They must also be provided with ready
access, which means being directly reached with-
out the removal or movement of a panel, door or
similar obstruction. Where more than one indirect
waste pipe discharges to a waste receptor, the size
of the fixture drain and trap shall be determined
by the drainage fixture unit value of the fixtures
and appliances it serves. Care must be exercised to
prevent splashing or flooding.
Where such drains are subject to evaporation
of the trap contents, a means for maintaining
the liquid trap seal must be provided. A trap seal
primer valve conforming to ASSE 1018 may be
used (Figure 4-36). Such valves quite often are FIGURE 4-36 Trap primer for floor drains
supplied with potable water. However, in the inter-
est of water conservation, such valves may also
be supplied with reclaimed water or treated gray-
Sink Drainage-type trap
water. You will need to follow the manufacturer’s
seal primer
installation instructions with regard to the quality
of the reclaimed or treated graywater to be used. A
waste-water-supplied trap primer device conform-
ing to ASSE 1044 is another water conservation
option (Figure 4-37). A barrier-type trap seal pro- Floor drain
tection device conforming to ASSE 1072 may be
used in a floor drain. For all of these methods and
devices for trap seal protection, it is vital to follow
the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance FIGURE 4-37 Drainage-type trap primer
instructions.
6 0    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

Standpipes are required to be at least 450 mm

above the trap weir, but not more than 1050 mm
(Figure 4-38). The standpipe must be accessible for
rodding and cleaning. [Ref. SBC 701 - 412.2, 412.3,
Vent 802.4, 1002.4.1]

Minimum 450 mm and

maximum 1050 mm Standpipe

FOOD PREPARATION AND

above trap weir

STORAGE
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapters 4 and 8]

Protection from contamination [Ref.

SBC 701 - 403, 801]
Food preparation in other than dwelling units, such
as a restaurant (Figure 4-39) is generally subject to
local health regulations for the health and safety of
the public. Just as important are the plumbing code
FIGURE 4-38 Standpipe requirements pertaining to the installation of fixtures,
appliances and equipment used in food preparation,
storage of food or ice, and for the washing of dishes, pots, pans and
utensils. Such fixtures and equipment cannot connect directly to the
drainage system.
Rather, they must be discharged by means of an indirect waste
pipe through an air gap or air break, depending on the use of the
fixture or equipment. For instance, fixtures and equipment utilized
for the storage, preparation and handling of food must discharge
through an air gap, this being an indirect waste pipe that discharges
into a waste receptor such that there is free atmosphere between the
outlet of the waste pipe and the flood level rim of the receptor.
The distance between the waste pipe outlet and the flood level
FIGURE 4-39 Restaurant rim of the receptor must be at least twice the effective opening (the
diameter) of the indirect waste pipe (Figure 4-40). However, fixtures
and equipment used for cleaning dishes, pots, pans and utensils,
including commercial dishwashers, may discharge through an air
break, this being an indirect waste pipe that discharges into a recep-
You Should tor at a point below the flood level rim (Figure 4-40). Both air gaps
Know and air breaks in a drainage application are considered to be indirect-
Definitions for consider- ly connected to prevent the backup of the drainage system into the
ation (see Glossary): fixture or equipment. An air gap, however, will prevent the backup of
• Air gap (drainage the drainage system from coming into contact with the indirect waste
system) pipe for added protection.
• Air break (drainage Protection from contamination can also be achieved through
system) proper location of required fixtures. For instance, a food service
• Indirect waste pipe l establishment will require toilet facilities for the employees, but such
toilet rooms are prohibited from opening directly into a room used
for the preparation of food. [Ref. SBC 701 - 403.3.2, 801.2, 802.1,
802.1.1, 802.1.7, 802.1.8, 802.2.1, 802.2.2]
 F o o d P r e p a r a t i o n a n d S t o r a g e    6 1

Indirect waste piping [Ref. SBC 701 - 802]

Fixtures that discharge through indirect waste pipes to a receptor
Code
are not required to be trapped, except where the indirect waste pipe Essentials
exceeds 750 mm of horizontal piping, or the total developed length SBC 701, Section 102.10
of both horizontal and vertical piping exceeds 1350 mm (Figure states that the provisions
4-41). of the code shall not be
Indirect waste piping receiving only clear-water waste does not deemed to nullify any pro-
require a trap regardless of the developed length, such as an indirect visions of any law. Thus, it
drain from an ice maker. [Ref. SBC 701 - 802.2] is important for the code
official to be aware of reg-
ulations that may apply to
food service, preparation
or distribution services that
may be under the author-
ity of another agency or
department. l

FIGURE 4-40 Air gap and air break

A trap is required because the total

Sink developed length of the indirect waste
pipe exceeds the maximum1350 mm,
even though the horizontal portion
Indirect waste pipe does not exceed 750 mm.
A trap is required because the horizontal 300 mm
developed length (both horizontal
portions) of the indirect waste pipe 750 mm
exceeds the maximum 750 mm, even though
the total developed length is under the
maximum 1350 mm. 380 mm

A trap is not required because the

Sink
Sink indirect waste pipe does not exceed a
Indirect waste pipe Receptor developed length of 1350 mm, and the
horizontal developed length does not
exceed 750 mm.
150 mm
610 mm
300 mm
150 mm
Indirect waste pipe

300 mm
700 mm

Receptor A trap is required because the

Receptor
Sink horizontal developed length exceeds
the maximum 750 mm, even though the
Indirect waste pipe total developed length is under the
maximum 1350 mm.
1000 mm

Receptor

FIGURE 4-41 Indirect drains

6 2    C h a p t e r 4 D e s i g n

QUIZ
1. When installing the discharge drain from the outlet of a relief
valve, the code requires which of the following?
a. It shall be at least the diameter of the relief valve outlet and
shall not be reduced in size downstream of the outlet.
b. It shall not terminate with a threaded connection.
c. It can rise vertically due to structural conditions, but the
lower portion of the vertical riser must be equipped with a
drain valve.
d. It can terminate to the exterior of the structure, to a waste
receptor or to the water heater’s drain pan.
e. All of the above
f. a, b and d only

2. In commercial kitchens, fixtures and equipment utilized for the

storage, preparation and handling of food __________________.
a. shall discharge indirectly through a drainage air gap
b. may be directly connected to the drainage system, provided a
floor drain is connected to the drainage branch serving the
fixture or equipment
c. shall be served with hot water that is at least 60°C
d. shall discharge indirectly through a drainage air break

3. A thermal expansion tank is required wherever a water heater is

installed.
a. True
b. False
PART
Drain, Waste and
III Vent

Chapter 5: Sanitary Drainage

Chapter 6: Venting
Chapter 7: Storm Drainage

63
 CHAPTER
Sanitary Drainage
5

A
major factor in protecting the health and safety of the public is
proper sanitation. This includes proper disposal of wastes. The
purpose of Chapter 5 is to address the code provisions appli-
cable to sanitary drainage. The sanitary drainage system of the building
and premises must be designed in such a way as to allow for flow of
wastes through adequately sized piping that will not unduly hinder the
flow of the drains. This involves joints and fittings that not only direct
the drainage flow, but will also improve periodic maintenance, such as
drain cleaning and rodding. This chapter addresses the materials, testing
and connection of building drainage systems to sewers, including sizing
of drains.

64
64
 M a t e r i a l s    6 5

CONNECTION TO SEWER
[Ref. SBC 701 - 701, 703]
It is important to verify connection to the appropriate sewer.
Where a storm sewer and a sanitary sewer are provided, care must be
taken to make sure the sanitary drainage goes to the sanitary sewer
and the roof and storm drainage goes to the storm sewer. Where a
combination sanitary and storm sewer exists, the sanitary drainage
system shall be independent of the storm drainage system within
the structure. The two systems can then be connected outside of
the structure to the combined sewer system (Figure 5-1). This will
accommodate proper connection at a future time should the util-
ity server provide independent sanitary and storm sewers without
the need for renovation of the drainage systems within the existing
structure.

Storm drainage from roof

The storm drainage shall not connect to the sanitary

drainage inside of the structure where the property
is served by a combination sanitary/storm sewer.

Combined sanitary/storm sewer Sanitary drainage

FIGURE 5-1 Combined sanitary-storm sewer

When renovating a structure, especially when this involves add-
ing or relocating fixtures, one must give attention to the existing
building drain and branches. Internal examination of the existing
piping is in order to verify that such piping is sloped properly, is not
broken or otherwise creating an obstruction to the flow, and is sized
properly to accommodate the drainage load. [Ref. SBC 701 - 701.2,
701.3, 703.4, 703.6]

MATERIALS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 702]
While many types of drainage pipe and fittings can be used both
inside and outside of a structure, and either above or below ground,
some materials are not approved for use in all locations. For instance,
6 6    C h a p t e r 5 S a n i t a r y D r a i n a g e

typical ABS/DWV and PVC/DWV is acceptable for above- and below-

ground installation, as is cast iron. Stainless steel type 304 can only
be installed above ground, whereas type 316L as approved for both
above and below ground (Table 5-1). Tables 702.1, 702.2 and 702.4
of the code also show the specific material standards that apply
to the different types of pipe, tubing and fittings. SBC 701, Table
702.3 includes materials acceptable for the building sewer, which
is the piping outside of the structure that connects to the build-
ing drain and conveys the discharge to the public or private sewer.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 702.1, 702.2, 702.3, 702.4]

TABLE 5-1 Drainage materials

Material Above ground Below ground
ABS X X
PVC X X
Cast Iron X X

Stainless Steel 304 X

Stainless Steel 316L X X

TESTING
[Ref. SBC 701 - 312, 701, 901]
The drain, waste and vents (DWV) system must be tested for
leaks. All portions of the system must be tested prior to cover.
Generally, this will involve a test of the roughed-in installation prior
to enclosing the wall and floor construction, which may require being
You Should tested in phases of construction. This can be a standing water test or
Know an air test, keeping in mind that air testing is not allowed for plastic
SBC 701 prohibits testing pipe. Once construction of the building is completed and the plumb-
plastic pipe, tubing and ing fixtures are installed, a final inspection is required, this being a
fittings with air pressure visual inspection of the DWV system sufficient to verify compliance.
due to the risk of injury The standing water test involves closing all openings except the
from pipe bursting and highest opening. This will usually be the highest vent opening to the
shattering. Even though atmosphere, or in the case of a groundwork installation it will be a
a test of only 34.5 kPa is drain or vent stack extended at least 3 m above the portion to be
required for DWV sys- tested. The system is then filled with water to the highest point for
tems, over-pressuring not less than 15 minutes to verify that the system is watertight at all
the system could occur points.
where pumps and A minimum 34.5 kPa air test is another method that can be used
compressors are used. on material other than plastic. Again, this test must be conducted for
Manufacturers of plastic not less than 15 minutes to verify that the system is airtight. This
materials specifically will require the use of a test gauge to verify the accuracy of the test.
prohibit such testing. l Since the required test pressure is under 69 kPa, the gauge must show
pressure increments of 0.69 kPa or less. [Ref. SBC 701 - 312.1,
312.1.1, 312.2, 312.3, 312.4, 701.6, 901.5]
 I n s t a l l a t i o n    6 7

INSTALLATION You Should

[Ref. SBC 701 - 704]
It is important to maintain a uniform slope to the drain pipe. It is
Know
most common for horizontal drains of all sizes in a structure to be Definitions for consider-
sloped at 2-percent slope. However, at times it may be necessary to ation (see Glossary):
reduce the slope, especially with larger structures where horizontal • Horizontal pipe
piping may extend for some distance and where the depth of the pip- • Vertical pipe
ing may be an issue. 75 mm and larger diameter piping may be run at • Stack l
a slope less than 2 percent (Table 5-2). The exception is that horizon-
tal drains discharging to a grease interceptor shall not be installed
with less than 2-percent slope. Code
TABLE 5-2 SBC 701, Table 704.1 Slope of horizontal drain pipe
Essentials
SBC 701 prohibits the con-
Size Minimum Slope
(mm) (%) nection of branches and
65 2 fixture drains within 10
80 to 150 1 pipe diameters down-
stream of a drainage stack
200 or larger 0.5
due to what is termed
hydraulic jump, a rise or
Horizontal branches must connect downstream of the base of a stack
wave of liquid waste in the
a minimum of 10 pipe diameters. Basically, multiplying the diam-
horizontal pipe due to the
eter of the stack by 10 provides the minimum horizontal distance
vertical downward gravity
in millimeters downstream of the stack where a horizontal drain
flow in the stack as it hits
branch may connect. For instance, the horizontal distance required
the horizontal pipe. The
downstream of a 75 mm stack would be 750 mm, and 1000 mm for a
subsequent rise of liquid
100 mm stack. A drain stack is the vertical line of soil or waste piping
waste blocks or restricts
that extends through not fewer than one story with or without off-
the air flow in the horizon-
sets. The same required distance applies to horizontal connections in
tal drain, thus pushing air
a stack offset (Figure 5-2). [Ref. SBC 701 - 704.1, 704.3]
downstream. This action
Drain stack serving a 3rd story can result in excessive
pressures begin exerted on
75 mm fixture traps downstream of
Horizontal drain branch
the stack. Connections to
the horizontal drain must
be far enough downstream
2nd Floor of the stack where the
Minimum distance of 750 mm
(10 x 75 mm = 750 mm) hydraulic jump has dissi-
Drain stack pated. l
100 mm

1st Floor

Minimum distance of 1000 mm

(10 x 100 mm = 1000 mm)
Horizontal drain branch

FIGURE 5-2 Connections near stack

6 8    C h a p t e r 5 S a n i t a r y D r a i n a g e

You Should OFFSETS IN DRAINAGE STACKS

[Ref. SBC 701 - 710, 711]
Know Offsets in drainage stacks will create pressure fluctuations in the
Definitions for consider- stack due to turbulence, thus there is a need to provide sufficient air
ation (see Glossary): into the stack to avoid affecting the trap seal of fixtures discharging
• Branch interval l to the stack. How to provide sufficient air is dependent on whether
it is a vertical offset or a horizontal offset (Figure 5-3). Where there
is a need to provide an offset in a drainage stack, it is necessary to
provide sufficient air into the stack by means of venting the offset or
increasing the size of the stack.
As previously discussed, horizontal
branches shall not connect downstream
of a drainage stack within 10 pipe diam-
eters of the stack size (Figure 5-2). Such
True Horizontal connections are allowed to connect with-
in 600 mm above or below a vertical
stack offset, except where there are more
90˚
than 4 branch intervals above the verti-
cal offset. In that case the offset must
Piping within these be vented in accordance with SBC 701,
45˚
angles are defined Section 907, or the stack and its offset
as horizontal 46˚ True Vertical can be sized as a building drain per SBC
701, Section 710, which results in an
increase in size of the stack and offset.
Horizontal stack offsets must be
vented in accordance with SBC 701,
Piping within these Section 907 where there are more than
angles are defined 4 branch intervals below the top of the
as vertical
stack. The following applies also: (1) The
portion of the stack above the offset
must be sized for a vertical stack based
on the drainage fixture unit load above
FIGURE 5-3 Horizontal and vertical piping
the offset, (2) the offset must be sized
as a building drain (Table 5-3), and (3)
the portion of the stack below the offset
must be the same size as the offset or based on the total number of
drainage fixture units on the entire stack, whichever is larger (Table
5-4, far right column). The venting of a horizontal stack offset may
be omitted where the stack and its offset are oversized in accordance
with SBC 701, Section 711.2.1.
Horizontal stack offsets below the lowest horizontal branch con-
necting to the stack must be sized as a building drain (Table 5-3) and
the continuation of the stack downstream of the offset shall not be
decreased. No such increase in size is required for vertical stack off-
sets that are located below the lowest horizontal branch connecting
to the stack. [Ref. SBC 701 - 710, 711]
 O f f s e t s i n D r a i n a g e S t a c k s    6 9

TABLE 5-3 Size of building drain

Maximum number of drainage fixture units connected to
any portion of the building drain or the building sewer,
Diameter of including branches of the building draina
pipe (mm)
Slope mm per meter
5 mm 10 mm 20 mm 40 mm
40 — — 3 3
50 — — 21 26
65 — — 24 31
75 — 36 42 50
100 — 180 216 250
125 — 390 480 575
150 — 700 840 1,000
200 1,400 1,600 1,920 2,300
a. The minimum size of any building drain serving a water closet shall be 75 mm.

TABLE 5-4 Horizontal drain branches and stacks

Maximum number of drainage fixture units (dfu)
Stacksb
Total Total for Total for stack
Diameter of Total for discharge stack of greater than
pipe (mm) horizontal into one three branch three branch
branch branch intervals or intervals
interval less

40 3 2 4 8
50 6 6 10 24
65 12 9 20 42
80 20 20 48 72
100 160 90 240 500 You Should
125 360 200 540 1,100 Know
150 620 350 960 1,900 Definitions for consider-
a. Does not include branches of the building drain (refer to Table 5-3). ation (see Glossary):
b. Stacks shall be sized based on the total accumulated connected load at each story or branch • Building drain
interval. As the total accumulated connected load decreases, stacks are permitted to be reduced • Building subdrain l
in size. Stack diameters shall not be reduced to less than one-half of the diameter of the largest.

Drainage below the sewer level [Ref. SBC 701 -

712, 715]
Building subdrains that cannot be drained by gravity to the sewer
shall be discharged to a sump that is gastight and vented. A pump can
then be used to lift the contents to the gravity drain. Drains that can
discharge by gravity shall not discharge to the sump. The sump must
have a removable gastight lid, and such lid shall not be lower than
the floor or grade level. The sump shall not be less than a minimum
450 mm wide and 610 mm deep (Figure 5-4).
 7 0    C h a p t e r 5 S a n i t a r y D r a i n a g e

The minimum diameter of the discharge piping

from sewage pumps and ejectors is based on the
liters per minute capacity of the pump (Table
Full-open valve Vent
5-5), except that grinder pumps and ejectors
can be discharged through a minimum 32-mm
diameter pipe and macerating toilet assemblies
Check valve
serving a single water closet can be discharged
Floor or grade level through a minimum 20-mm diameter pipe. In all
cases one must follow the manufacturer’s instal-
Gastight removable cover
lation instructions.
Ejector
discharge TABLE 5-5 SBC 701, Table 712.4.2 Minimum capacity of
sewage pump or sewage ejector
Minimum 610 mm deep Capacity of Pump
Diameter of the Discharge
or ejector
Pipe (mm)
(L/min)
SUMP
50 80
65 115
Minimum 450 mm wide
80 175

FIGURE 5-4 Sump and ejector

The pump discharge pipe must be
equipped with a check valve along with
a full-open valve on the discharge side
Connection must be at least 10 pipe size diameters
downstream of the base of the stack of the check valve to facilitate main-
(750 mm for a 75 mm stack, 1000 mm for a 100 mm stack)
tenance of the pump, sump and check
Stack
valve. The pump discharge pipe can
then tie into the gravity drainage sys-
tem. When connecting the discharge
pipe to a horizontal drain, the point of
connection shall be into the top of the
horizontal drain pipe through a wye
fitting and downstream of the base
When connecting to a horizontal
of a stack at least 10 pipe diameters,
drain line, the pump discharge shall as required for any horizontal branch
connect into the top of the horizontal
drain line through a wye fitting.
connection downstream of the base of
a stack (Figure 5-5).
Where the building drain con-
nects to a public sewer, yet the next
upstream manhole serving the pub-
lic sewer is above the building drain
floor level, a backwater valve must
be installed to prevent any backup
Sump
of sewer contents into the building.
Except for existing structures, drains
from fixtures on floor levels above
the next upstream manhole shall not
FIGURE 5-5 Ejector discharge connection discharge through the backwater valve.
The backwater valve must be installed
so that access is provided to the work-
 O f f s e t s i n D r a i n a g e S t a c k s    7 1

ing parts of the valve (Figure 5-6).

[Ref. SBC 701 - 712.1, 712.2,
712.3.2, 712.3.5, 712.4.2,
715.1, 715.5]
Cleanouts [Ref. SBC 701 -
Next upstream
708] manhole

Cleanouts are required at a mini- Floor level

mum of each 30 m for 203-mm

diameter and smaller drain lines Building drain Backwater valve

and for each change of direction in Public sewer

excess of 45 degrees, with the al-
lowance for the cleanout at that di- FIGURE 5-6 Backwater valve
rectional change to serve the next
12 m of drain piping, including
any changes of direction within that 12 m section. A cleanout is also
required at the junction of the building drain and the building sewer,
and this can be either at the junction or not more than 3000 mm
upstream of the junction (Figure 5-7). The cleanout opening is to be
the same size as the piping served, except that cleanouts on a stack
can be one pipe size smaller than the stack. A removable P-trap with
slip or ground joint connections can serve as a cleanout for drain pip-
ing that is one pipe size smaller than the P-trap. Cleanout openings
in vertical stacks can be served by a sanitary tee or a test tee, but
drainage pattern fittings shall be used
for cleanout extensions on horizontal
drains (Figure 5-7). Cleanouts cannot
Required
be concealed. They can be located in Horizontal drain cleanout
a crawlspace, provided that the unob- 1200 mm
structed height along the pathway to 90°
90°
CO 60
00
mm
the cleanout is not less than 600 mm. Change in direction:
The opening of cleanouts 150 mm and cleanout at fitting > 45°
only one CO required 90°
smaller shall have a clear space not in each 12 m of developed
length
less than 500 mm. [Ref. SBC 701 - 90°
00
mm
50
708.1.1, 708.1.3, 708.1.4, 708.1.5,
Two-way
708.1.8, 708.1.9, 708.1.10] cleanout permitted
Option for Inside Outside
Sizing of drains [Ref. SBC a cleanout
at the base
Grade

701 - 709, 710] of a stack

At first glance it may seem that sizing Foundation

the drainage system is difficult. Actu- Sleeve

ally, it is quite simple as long as you
remember what the building drain is Building
drain Building drain Building
and what a branch interval is. Once sewer
750 mm
you have determined the number of
drainage fixture units for each hori- Cleanout required near building
drain/sewer connection
zontal branch in accordance with SBC
701, Table 709.1 (Table 5-6) and SBC FIGURE 5-7 Cleanout locations
701, Table 710.1(1), you can then
7 2    C h a p t e r 5 S a n i t a r y D r a i n a g e

determine the total loading allowed for the drainage stack based on
You Should the number of branch intervals discharging into the stack per SBC
Know 701, Table 710.1(2) (Tables 5-3 and 5-4). Based on the total drainage
Definitions for consider- fixture units discharging into the stack, you can then size the build-
ation (see Glossary): ing drain per SBC 701, Table 710.1(1) (Figures 5-8 and 5-9).
• Bathroom group Although most fixtures are identified in SBC 701, Table 709.1, at
• Building drain times you may find a fixture or an appliance that may not be specifi-
• Branch interval l cally identified in the table. In such cases, SBC 701, Table 709.2 can
be used to assign drainage fixture units based on the fixture drain or
trap size (Table 5-7). The code recognizes 0.06 L/s being equal to two
drainage fixture units.
Horizontal offsets in the stack shall be sized in accordance with SBC
701, Table 710.1(1), and vertical offsets shall be sized in accordance
with SBC 701, Table 710.1(2) (Figure 5-3 and Tables 5-3 and 5-4).
[Ref. SBC 701 - 709.1, 709.2, 709.3, 710.1, 710.1.1, 710.1.2]
TABLE 5-6 Drainage fixture units (dfu) for fixtures and groups
SBC
Fixture or Group Type 701
DFU
Automatic clothes washer, residential 2
Bathroom group (6 Lpf water closet) 5
Bathtub (with or without overhead shower) 2
Dishwashing machine, domestic 2
Kitchen sink, domestic 2
Kitchen sink, domestic with food waste disposer and 2
dishwasher
Laundry tray (1 or 2 compartments) 2
Lavatory 1
Shower (flow rate of 22 Lpm or less) 2
Water closet, private (6 Lpf) 3

Lavatories Shower
50 mm
Kitchen sink w/dishwasher 75 mm
Bathtub
75 mm
Water closets Clothes washer
75 mm standpipe
Laundry tray
This drain is serving two
bathroom groups for a total 50 mm
of 10 drainage fixture units
75 mm
40 mm
40 mm
Bathtub

40 mm Water closet 75 mm SBC 701, Section 406.2 requires

Lavatory the clothes washer fixture drain
to connect to a minimum 75 mm
75 mm branch or stack.

75 mm
This drain is serving one 75 mm
bathroom group for a total
of 5 drainage fixture units

The total drainage fixture unit value at “A” is as follows:

75 mm IPC: 3 Bathroom groups 15
1 Kitchen sink/dishwasher 2
A 1 Clothes washer 2
1 Laundry tray 2
TOTAL: 21

FIGURE 5-8 Drain sizing

 O f f s e t s i n D r a i n a g e S t a c k s    7 3

SIZING

Building drains shall be sized in accordance with Table 710.1(1)

Branches and stacks shall be sized in accordance with Table 710.1(2) by first
determining the total number of branches discharging into the stack, and then
determining the number of branch intervals within the stack.
Bathroom
A branch interval is the vertical measurement of distance, 2400 mm or more Fixtures
in developed length, between the connections of horizontal branches to a
drainage stack. Measurements are taken down the stack from the highest Bathroom
horizontal branch connection. Fixtures Bathroom
Fixtures

Bathroom Branch Interval

Bathroom
Fixtures Fixtures Branch Interval

Bathroom
Bathroom Stack Bathroom Stack
Fixtures Fixtures Fixtures

Branch Interval Bathroom

Bathroom Bathroom
Fixtures Stack Fixtures Fixtures
Grade Level Grade Level
To Sewer To Sewer To Sewer
Building Drain Building Drain Building Drain
Basement - Basement - Basement -
no fixtures no fixtures no fixtures

Building #1 Building #2 Building #3

(1 Branch Interval) (3 Branch Interval) (4 Branch Interval)

FIGURE 5-9 Sizing drain stacks and branches

TABLE 5-7 Drainage fixture units for fixture drains or traps

Fixture drain or trap size Drainage fixture unit
(mm) value
40 2
50 3
65 4
80 5
100 6

Joints and connections [Ref. SBC 701 - 705, 706]

Gravity flow in drains can be impeded significantly by anything that
causes excessive friction. Therefore, it is imperative that joints create
a smooth interior surface free of ledges or reductions that can ob-
struct the flow. Additionally, fittings that properly direct the flow are
necessary. SBC 701, Table 706.3 lists the various types of directional
pattern fittings and their proper use for changes in direction (Table
5-8). Horizontal-to-horizontal and horizontal-to-vertical changes in
direction require fittings with a larger turning radius. These are gen-
erally referred to as long sweep bends, wye, and combination wye and
eighth bend fittings. Note that a short sweep may be used in vertical
to horizontal changes of direction in 80 mm or larger diameter, and
both the quarter bend and the short sweep may be used for 50 mm or
smaller fixture drains (Figures 5-10 and 5-11). When using SBC 701,
Table 706.3, note that both plastic and cast-iron drainage fittings
have a long sweep and a quarter bend, but cast iron also has a short
7 4    C h a p t e r 5 S a n i t a r y D r a i n a g e

sweep, which is a shorter radius than its quarter bend. Do not com-
Code pare the radius of bend for one type of material to another. A good
Essentials rule of thumb is to consider the radius of joining two 45-degree bends
of material to be equivalent to a long sweep of the same material.
Proper drainage pattern fit-
Double sanitary tee fittings cannot be used to connect back-to-
tings are necessary for:
back water closets and fixtures, or appliances with pump discharge,
• Proper directional flow
except for back-to-back water closets where the horizontal developed
of wastes
length between the water closet and the connection to the double
• Reducing the possibility
sanitary tee is 450 mm or more (Figure 5-12).
of blockages
SBC 701, Section 705 addresses the various types of DWV mate-
• Maintaining air flow in
rials and includes the applicable material or product standards.
the drainage system
This includes the fittings to be used for changes in direction and
• Effectively using drain
for the joining methods to be used to join the pipe to the fitting.
rodding equipment l
It is extremely important to follow the manufacturer’s installation
instructions in the joining process. Approved adapter fittings are
required when connecting different types of material (Figure 5-13).
One example of such a connection would be from a building drain to
a building sewer, where both the piping materials and their outside
diameters could be different. [Ref. SBC 701 - 705, 706.1, 706.2,
706.3]

TABLE 5-8 Fittings for change in direction (based on SBC 701, Table 706.3)
Change in direction
Type of fitting
pattern Horizontal to Vertical to Horizontal to
vertical horizontal horizontal

Sixteenth bend X X X

Eighth bend X X X

Sixth bend X X X

Quarter bend X Xa Xa

Short sweep X Xa,b Xa

Long sweep X X X

Sanitary tee Xc — —

Wye X X X

Combination wye X X X
and eighth bend

a. The fittings shall only be permitted for a 50 mm or smaller fixture drain.

b. 80 mm or larger.
c. For a limitation on double sanitary tees, see Section 706.3.
 O f f s e t s i n D r a i n a g e S t a c k s    7 5

Horizontal to horizontal
Horizontal to vertical
change in direction
or vertical to horizontal
change in direction
You Should
Know
Do not compare the
Prohibited
radius of a 45-degree
bend of one type of
material to another. A
good rule of thumb in
Sanitary tee determining what would
constitute a long-sweep
Approved
bend is to join two
Sanitary tee 45-degree bends of the
same material together
to determine the proper
Combination WYE and eighth bend
radius. l

Combination WYE WYE WYE

and eighth bend

FIGURE 5-10 DWV fittings for change in direction

Clothes Washer

Sanitary Tee 50 mm
Quarter Bend or Short Sweep
Floor Drain This fitting can be installed in the To a bathroom
opposite position for drainage The code is silent on whether a
50 mm 50 mm
because the vent is to be graded vent-type 90-degree bend can be
back to the drainage system.
used in this configuration for a vent. 75 mm
50 mm Sanitary Tee

Sanitary Tee
Long Sweep
If the vent is serving as a
Quarter bend can 75 mm
drain for a fixture also, this
fitting would need to be a be used if the drain Sanitary Tee
combination wye & eighth bend. is 75 mm or larger
Drinking Fountain

50 mm
40 mm
Long Sweep
40 mm
Long Sweep
75 mm

75 mm

75 mm Combination Wye & Eighth Bend

FIGURE 5-11 Fittings for vent connections

7 6    C h a p t e r 5 S a n i t a r y D r a i n a g e

450 mm

FIGURE 5-12 Back-to-back fixtures

FIGURE 5-13 Adapter

QUIZ
1. Horizontal drain branches may connect ____________________.
a. upstream of the base of a stack a minimum of 10 pipe
diameters
b. downstream of the base of a stack a minimum of 10 pipe
diameters, except where connecting through a wye-branch
fitting
c. downstream of the base of a stack a minimum of 10 pipe
diameters

2. The discharge pipe from a sewage ejector must be equipped with

a check valve along with a ________________________ on the
_______________________ of the check valve to facilitate main-
tenance of the pump, sump and check valve.
a. full-open valve / discharge side
b. globe valve / discharge side
c. full-open valve / upstream side

3. Horizontal-to-horizontal and vertical-to-horizontal changes in

direction in a drain line shall be made with long sweep bends,
wyes, and combination wye and eighth bend fittings.
a. True
b. False
CHAPTER
Venting
6

T
he drainage system relies on the introduction of sufficient air
into the system to enhance the flow of wastes. Air is introduced
through a venting system. A number of venting methods can
be used, some based on designer preference and others dictated by the
construction. This chapter addresses general venting requirements and
various venting methods, such as common vent, horizontal wet venting
and several others.

77
7 8    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Code [Ref. SBC 701 - 901, 909]
Essentials In order to fully understand the various venting methods contained
SBC 701, Section 901.2 in SBC 701, it is imperative that one understands the definitions of
states that fixture traps the terms used in the code. Please give special attention to the defini-
shall not be subjected to tions as you continue in this discussion.
a pressure differential of The venting provisions of SBC 701 are designed to provide suffi-
more than 249 Pa of water cient air to offset pressure differentials that can affect the water seal
column. Proper venting of fixture traps. There are a number of venting methods that can be
of the drainage system is used to meet this need. No matter which venting method is utilized,
required for this purpose, it is especially important to maintain the proper distance and slope
and SBC 701 recognizes of the fixture drain from the trap to its vent in accordance with SBC
many proven venting meth- 701, Table 909.1. An exception to this is for self-siphoning fixtures,
ods, including: such as water closets, in which case the distance is not limited (Table
• Conventional venting 6-1 and Figure 6-1).
based on drainage
TABLE 6-1 Maximum distance of fixture trap from vent
fixture units
• Common vent Size of trap Slope Distance from trap
• Relief venting in high- (mm) (%) (m)
rise structures 32 2 1.5
• Venting for stack offsets 40 2 1.8
• Horizontal and vertical 50 2 2.4
wet venting 75 1 3.6
• Waste stack venting 100 1 4.8
• Circuit venting
• Combination waste and
vent systems Maximum 2438 mm
Minimum 100 mm (two pipe diameters)
• Island fixture venting
• Single stack venting Vent
Top of vent
• Use of air admittance Sanitary tee
opening Trap
50 mm fixture drain
valves weir Water seal
(trap seal)
• Engineered vent systems ≤ 50 mm
2% slope 50 mm to 100 mm
that are shown to meet
the provisions of SBC Trap
701, Section 901.2 and
are acceptable to the
Trap weir below top of vent opening
code official l no more than one pipe diameter

FIGURE 6-1 Fixture vent

It is important to understand the terms applicable to portions of

a vent system, especially so when considering the maximum distance
that a vent can run (the developed length) for the vent in question.
Every vent system for a structure must have at least one dry vent
extended from the building drain to the atmosphere. This includes
wet vent systems that will be discussed later in this section. However,
an island fixture vent cannot serve as the required dry vent.
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    7 9

The vent system is to be tested in the same manner as the drain-

age system as part of testing the DWV installation in its entirety
or in sections. Vents for a chemical waste system must be separate
from the sanitary venting system. Do not connect the two systems.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 901.2, 901.2.1, 901.3, 901.4, 901.5, 909]
Vent connections and grades [Ref. SBC 701 - 905]
Vents are not to be installed level or flat when installed in the hori-
zontal position. They are to be sloped toward the drainage system You Should
such that accumulated moisture in the vent system will drain back by Know
gravity to the drain. Standing water in the vent will adversely affect Definition for consider-
the flow of air. Dry vents that connect to a horizontal drain shall con- ation (see Glossary):
nect above the centerline of the drain. Dry vents, which supply only • Flood level rim l
air to a drain line and do not convey the discharge of other fixtures,
must rise vertically to a point at least 150 mm above the flood level
rim of the highest fixture being served before connecting with any
other vent (Figure 6-2). [Ref. SBC 701 - 905]

Vent connections to
Vents can connect together at a horizontal drains shall be
point at least 150 mm above the made above the centerline
flood level rim of the highest of the drain pipe.
fixture. In this case the lavatory
Centerline of horizontal drain pipe
is the highest fixture.
Vents sloped down
toward the drain
Offsets are allowed on individual
vents only when at least 150 mm
above the flood level rim of the
fixture served
150 mm
Flood level rim of lavatory
Lavatory
Shower
Water Closet
Flood level rim of water closet
150 mm

Flood level rim of shower

FIGURE 6-2 Vent connections

8 0    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

Vent termination [Ref. SBC 701 - 903]

The most common termination of vents is through the roof. Ap-
proved flashing material is required in order to prevent water intru-
sion. Vents must terminate not less than 300 mm above the roof.
Vents may also terminate with an air admittance valve.
Vents terminating to the free atmosphere must maintain ade-
quate distance from openings into a building. They shall not termi-
nate below such openings and shall be at least 3000 mm horizontally
from openings or 1000 mm above such openings. Where a roof is
also used as a deck for general access to the public or occupants, such
as for an observation deck, vents shall terminate a minimum of 2 m
above the deck (Figure 6-3).
There is also an option for terminating a vent through the side
wall of a structure. When this option is used, the termination can-
not be located below a roof overhang with soffit vents, and the vent
termination must be at least 3 m above the average ground level adja-
cent to the building and not closer than 3 m to a property line (Figure
6-3). The opening must be screened to prevent birds or rodents
from entering and possibly blocking the air passage of the vent.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 903.1, 903.3, 903.5, 903.6]

Vent through roof

Minimum 3000 mm from opening into buildings

unless at least 1000 mm above such openings

Side wall vent

Connect with Minimum 2 m

another vent Openable above deck
window

Access
Observation deck
door to
open to public
deck

Air admittance valve

Minimum 3 m

Ground

FIGURE 6-3 Vent termination

 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    8 1

Sizing of vents [Ref. SBC 701 - 904, 906]

You Should
Here again, it is important to be familiar with the definitions that
apply to different types of vents in order to navigate the sizing provi-
Know
sions of the code. Definitions for consider-
Once the drainage fixture units are determined for the drain, ation (see Glossary):
individual vents and branch vents must be at least one-half the • Individual vent
diameter of the drain served but not less than 32 mm, and they can- • Branch vent
not exceed a developed length of 12 m (Figure 6-4). The same sizing • Circuit vent
requirement applies to circuit vents and relief vents unless specifi- • Relief vent
cally required to be sized differently, such as relief vents in multiple • Common vent
story buildings. • Stack vent
• Vent stack
• Vent header l

Vents terminate outdoors through the roof

Individual Vent

Branch Vent

Bathtub
Floor Drain
A
Lavatory Water Closet Kitchen Sink

The vent shall be at least one-half the diameter of the drain to

which it connects, but not less than 32 mm. The developed length is
measured from Point A to Point B. If the developed length exceeds
12 m, the vent pipe must be increased by one pipe size.

FIGURE 6-4 Vent descriptions

8 2    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

A vent that connects two or more branch vents together is called

a common branch vent. The developed length requirement does not
pertain to common branch vents. Rather, they are to be sized based
on the size of the common horizontal drainage branch that is or
would be required to serve the total drainage fixture unit load being
vented in accordance with SBC 701, Section 906.4. SBC 701, Sections
709 and 710 are used for determining drainage fixture unit loads
(Figure 6-5).

Sinks Sinks Sinks

Branch Vent Branch Vent Branch Vent

Common Branch Vent

A vent pipe that connects multiple branch vents is called a “Common Branch Vent.” While individual vents and
branch vents are sized in accordance with SBC 701, Section 906.2, the size of the common branch vent is
based on the size of the common horizontal drainage branch that is, or would be, required to serve the total
drainage fixture until load being vented is in accordance with SBC 701, Section 906.4.

FIGURE 6-5 Branch vents

Stack vents and vent stacks are sized based on the developed
length and the total drainage fixture units connected thereto. Again,
SBC 701, Sections 709 and 710 are used for determining drainage fix-
ture unit loads. Once the drainage fixture unit load is known, use SBC
701, Table 906.1 to determine the minimum diameter (Figure 6-6).
The vent must be at least one-half the diameter of the drain served
but in no case less than 32 mm diameter. Vent stacks are required for
drainage stacks that have five or more branch intervals, except that a
waste stack vent system conforming to SBC 701, Section 913 requires
a stack vent regardless of the number of branch intervals.
 Vent terminates to the
outdoors through the roof

NOTE: Branch vents shall be sized in accoradance with Section 906.1, 906.2 and 906.3 Branch Vent

20 dfu
108 dfu

88 dfu
Branch Vent

20 dfu 72 dfu

52 dfu
Branch Vent Branch Vent

20 dfu
36 dfu

16 dfu
Branch Vent

Branch Vent NOTE: Sizing of the common branch vent shall be in accoradance with Section 906.4,
The vent piping from the connection but is not subject to teh developed length requirements of Section 906.3
of the first two branch vents to the 16 dfu
vent termination to the outdoors is
defined as a “common branch vent”

For the purpose of this illustration, each branch vent is serving a public restroom in a single-story building.
16 dfu

FIGURE 6-6 Vent sizing

G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    8 3
8 4    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

Stack vents and vent stacks can be connected together into a com-
mon vent at the top of the stacks and extended to the vent termina-
tion. This portion of the vent system is known as a vent header. The
vent header is to be sized in accordance with SBC 701, Table 906.1,
applying the drainage fixture unit load of all stacks and calculating
the developed length from the intersection at the base of the farthest
stack to the vent termination. A vent stack must connect at the base
of the drainage stack below the lowest horizontal branch (Figure 6-7).
Where it connects to the horizontal drain extending downstream of
the stack, the point of connection must be at least 10 pipe diameters
downstream of the stack.
Vents serving fixtures that connect to a building subdrain and
connect to a building subdrain that discharge to a sump and sew-
age ejector shall be installed as one would for the gravity drainage
system. The vent for the sump must be sized in accordance with SBC
701, Table 906.5.1. However, if the pump is pneumatic, the vent
must be independent of all other vents and shall extend through the
roof, and it must be sized to relieve the air pressure inside the ejector
to atmospheric pressure, but not less than 32 mm in diameter. Follow
the manufacturer’s installation instructions for the installation of
sumps and sewage ejectors. [Ref. SBC 701 - 904.2, 904.4, 904.5,
906]
DIAMETER TOTAL MAXIMUM DEVELOPED LENGTH OF VENT (m) a DIAMETER TOTAL MAXIMUM DEVELOPED LENGTH OF VENT (m) a
OF SOIL OR FIXTURE DIAMETER OF VENT (mm) OF SOIL OR FIXTURE DIAMETER OF VENT (mm)
WASTE UNITS BEING WASTE UNITS BEING
b STACKb (mm) VENTED (dfu) 32 40 50 65 75 100 125 150 200 250 300
STACK (mm) VENTED (dfu) 32 40 50 65 75 100 125 150 200 250 300
40 8 15 45 · · · · · · · · · 40 8 15 45 · · · · · · · · ·
40 10 9 30 40 10 9 30
50 12 23 60 50 12 23 60 Vent Header
75 mm
50 10 9 15 45 · · · · · · 50 10 9 15 45 · · · · · · (15 m to termination)
65 42 8 9 30 90 65 42 8 9 30 90
75 10 13 45 110 317 75 10 13 45 110 317
75 21 · 10 36 82 247 · · · · · · 75 21 · 10 36 82 247 · · · · · ·
75 53 8 29 70 207 75 53 8 29 70 207
75 102 8 64 189 75 102 8 64 189
100 43 · 26 26 76 299 · · · · · 100 43 · 26 26 76 299 · · · · ·
100 140 50 mm Stack Vent (6 m)
100 140 11.8 110 60 229 11.8 110 60 229
100 320 7 17 52 195 100 320 7 17 52 195

35 dfu

100 mm
DIAMETER TOTAL MAXIMUM DEVELOPED LENGTH OF VENT (m) a
OF SOIL OR FIXTURE DIAMETER OF VENT (mm) 45 dfu
WASTE UNITS BEING
STACKb (mm) VENTED (dfu) 32 40 50 65 75 100 125 150 200 250 300
40 8 15 45 · · · · · · · · ·
40 10 9 30 75 mm
50 12 23 60 35 dfu
50 10 9 15 45 · · · · · · Vent Stack (33m)
65 42 8 9 30 90
75 10 13 45 110 317
75 21 · 10 36 82 247 · · · · · · 35 dfu
75 53 8 29 70 207
75 102 8 64 189
100 43 · 26 26 76 299 · · · · ·
100 140 11.8 110 60 229 35 dfu
100 320 7 17 52 195

50 dfu
VENT STACK: The vent stack is serving a 100 mm drain stack with 285 drainage fixture units (dfu). Since this is more than 140 dfu, go to the next row down (320 dfu). The developed length of
the vent is 33 mm. Since a 65 mm vent will only allow a developed length of 17 m, go the next right column that indicates that a 75 mm vent will accommodate up to 52 m of developed length.
—100 mm
STACK VENT: The vent stack is also serving a 75 mm drain stack with 285 drainage fixture units (dfu). Assume that the fixtures on each horizontal branch are vented by
other means. The vent stack cannot be less than one-half the diameter of the drain, which would be a minimum of 50 mm. Using the same row as used for the vent stack,
we find that the 50 mm stack vent is under the maximum 7 m developed length allowed. 50 dfu
100 mm - total of 285 drainage fixure units
VENT HEADER: The vent header is serving 285 dfu with a total developed length of 48 m from the vent stack connection to the drain and the termination of the vent header.
The table indicates that a 75 mm vent, not exceeding 52 m developed length, can be used.

FIGURE 6-7 Sizing of vent stacks

G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    8 5
8 6    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

Relief vents in multiple-story buildings [Ref. SBC

You Should 701 - 908]
Know
Relief vents are required for drainage stacks serving more than 10
Definitions for consider-
branch intervals. The relief vent must be connected to the drain-
ation (see Glossary):
age stack at each 10th branch interval counting down from the top
• Relief vent
floor. The lower end of the relief vent connects through a wye fitting
• Yoke vent l
to the drainage stack below the horizontal branch serving the floor
and connects with a wye fitting to the vent stack at a point not less
than 900 mm above the floor. The relief vent shall be the same size
as the drainage stack to which it connects (Figure 6-8). [Ref. SBC
701 - 908]

Stack vent

Vent stack
1
Floor level of
the top story 2
3
4
5
6
Vent stack
7
Drainage
8
stack
9
Branch 10 Floor level Connection shall be at
intervals least 900 mm above
11
the floor level
12
13
14
15 Horizontal drain branch
16
17
18 Relief vent to be the same
19 size as the drainage stack
to which it connects
20
21
22
23

24
25

FIGURE 6-8 Multistory venting

 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    8 7

Vents for horizontal stack offsets [Ref. SBC 701 -

907]
You Should
Know
Horizontal offsets in drainage stacks shall be vented where there are
5 or more branch intervals above the offset. Both the upper and the Definitions for consider-
lower section of the offset must be vented. This vent, referred to as a ation (see Glossary):
yoke vent, shall be vertical and must be the same size as the required • Horizontal pipe
vent stack (Figure 6-9). [Ref. SBC 701 - 907] • Vertical pipe l

Vent Stack Drain Stack

FIGURE 6-9 Venting stack offsets

8 8    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

Venting of island fixtures [Ref. SBC 701 - 916]

You Should
Island fixture venting is limited to sinks and lavatories, which can
Know include a residential kitchen sink with a connection for a dishwasher
Definition for consider- and a food waste disposer. The vent from the fixture drain shall rise
ation (see Glossary): vertically to above the sink drain outlet and then return down verti-
• Branch interval l cally to connect with either the horizontal drain branch downstream
of the fixture drain or on the vertical portion of the fixture drain
(Figure 6-10). [Ref. SBC 701 - 916]
Vent rise above bottom
of fixture

Flood-level rim

Cleanout Bottom of fixture

for vent

Low point of vent connects

to drain downstream of
fixture drain

Island fixture vent

FIGURE 6-10 Island fixture vent

Air admittance valves [Ref. SBC 701 - 918]

Air admittance valves (AAVs) conforming to ASSE 1051 (individual
and branch type) may be used to terminate individual vents, branch
vents and circuit vents. These must be located at least 100 mm above
the horizontal branch drain or fixture drain being vented and may
only serve fixtures that are on the same floor level and connected to
a horizontal branch drain. AAVs conforming to ASSE 1050 (stack-
type) may be used to terminate stack vents and vent stacks serving
drainage stacks having not more than six branch intervals, and shall
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    8 9

be located at least 150 mm above the flood level rim of the high-
est fixture being vented. As with other materials and products, it is
important to adhere to the manufacturer’s installation instructions
and the code. Plumbing systems that utilize AAVs must have at least
one vent stack or stack vent extending to the outdoors (Figure 6-11).
If used on a chemical waste system, the AAV must conform to ASSE
1049 or be made of materials tested for chemical resistance in accor-
dance with the code.
Since AAVs provide air intake to the vent system, they must be
installed in locations that allow air to enter, such as within a sink
cabinet, behind a screened or louvered cover in a wall, or an attic.
They must be accessible for inspection, repair or replacement if
needed (Figures 6-12 and 6-13). When installed in an attic or simi-
lar insulated space, they must be located at least 150 mm above the
insulation. They cannot be used on exterior vent terminations for
the purpose of reducing clearance to air intakes. Generally, they can-
not serve as a vent termination for sumps or tank except where the
vent system is designed by an engineer.

The drainage system must have at least

one vent extending to the outdoors.

40 mm

Air admittance valves Kitchen Sink

Air admittance valve (individual and branch type)
Bathtub
(individual and branch type)
50 mm
WC

Lavatory

75 mm Clothes Washer
50 mm

75 mm
(see SBC 701, Section 406.2)

75 mm

FIGURE 6-11 Air admittance valve venting

9 0    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

FIGURE 6-12 Air admittance valve in recessed box with ventilation

Flood-level rim

Air admittance valve

100 mm
minimum

FIGURE 6-13 Air admittance valve

Due to positive and negative pressure fluctuations in the drain-

age system, AAVs will open to allow air into the piping system and
close to prevent air from escaping. Because AAVs cannot be subject to
excessive presure fluctuations, relief venting is required where AAVs
are used on horizontal branch drains connecting to drainage stacks
with more than four branch intervals above (Figure 6-14). The relief
vent must connect to the horizontal branch drain downstream of
the first fixture drain being served by an AAV and before connecting
to the drainage stack. The relief vent may also serve as the vent for
other fixtures. [Ref. SBC 701 - 918]
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    9 1

Vent stack

Relief vent

Air admittance Relief vent AAV

1
valve
Air admittance valve

3 Branch intervals

5
Where relief vents are required, the vent must
connect to the horizontal branch drain
downstream of the last fixture drain being
served by the air admittance valve and before
connecting to the drainage stack.

Relief vents are required where more

than 4 branch intervals discharge
into the drainage stack above the
horizontal branch drain with fixtures
served by air admittance valves.

FIGURE 6-14 Relief venting air admittance valves

9 2    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

You Should VENTING METHODS

[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 9]
Know
Definition for consider- Common vent [Ref. SBC 701 - 911]
ation (see Glossary): Common venting is a simple method of allowing an individual vent to
• Common vent l serve as the vent for two fixtures. The two fixtures must be located
on the same floor level and can be connected to the drain and vent at
the same level or at different levels (Figure 6-15). Where connected
at different levels, the size of the pipe between the two fixture drain
connections shall be sized per SBC 701, Table 911.3 (Table 6-2) [Ref.
SBC 701 - 911]

40 mm

32 mm
Laundry Tray 40 mm
Lavatory
40 mm
Clothes Washer
Lavatory 32 mm Bathtub
32 mm
40 mm Cleanout
50 mm 50 mm

50 mm Bathtub
40 mm
50 mm

75 mm

SBC 701, Section 406.2 requires the

clothes washer drain to connect
to a minimum 75 mm branch.
FIGURE 6-15 Common vent

You Should
TABLE 6-2 Common vent sizes
Know
Wet venting systems Pipe size Maximum discharge from upper
where the drain also (mm) fixture drain (dfu)
serves as the vent are 40 1
considered by many in 50 4
the plumbing industry
to be among the best 65 - 80 6
designs for plumbing
systems due to their
self-scouring function.
It also can result in a
reduction in cost of
materials and labor. l
 Ve n t i n g M e t h o d s    9 3

Vertical and horizontal wet venting [Ref. SBC 701

- 912] Code
Wet venting can serve any combination of fixtures within two bath-
Essentials
room groups and can be used in either a vertical or horizontal con- A bathroom group is
figuration (Figures 6-16 and 6-17). Fixtures that are not part of a defined as:
bathroom group must connect downstream of the wet vent. In both • A group of fixtures
the horizontal and vertical configuration, the wet vent begins at the consisting of a water
connection of the dry vent serving the most upstream fixture drain closet, lavatory, bathtub
and continues downstream to the farthest fixture drain being served or shower, including or
by the wet vent. Since the wet-vented portion of the system serves excluding a bidet, and
as the vent for the fixture traps, the fixture drains shall not exceed emergency floor drain or
the maximum distance allowed per SBC 701, Table 909.1 (Table 6-1), both. Such fixtures are
and the trap cannot be located above the wet vent unless it is sepa- located together on the
rately vented (Figure 6-18). The dry vent can be the vent serving any same floor. l
fixture within the bathroom group except an emergency floor drain.
Both vertical and horizontal wet vents shall be sized in accordance
with SBC 701, Table 912.3 (Table 6-3). [Ref. SBC 701 - 912]

Only the fixtures within the bathroom group are served

by the horizontal wet vent. The kitchen sink and bar sink
are connected downstream of the wet vent.

Dry Vent

HORIZONTAL WET VENT 40 mm

Floor Drain Bathtub Kitchen

Sink
Lavatory
Water
m
Closet 50 m
Lavatory Bar 5 0 mm
Sink
40 mm
80 mm
32 mm

Wet vent begins at the Lavatory

dry vent and ends at the
water closet fixture drain
40 mm
VERTICAL WET VENT
40 mm
Wet vent begins at the
lavatory fixture drain
Although the two lavatories are part of the Water Closet
Bathtub
and ends at the water
bathroom groups, they are served by the
closet fixture drain
common vent because the fixture traps are
above the height of the horizontal wet vent.
80 mm

FIGURE 6-16 Horizontal wet vent

9 4    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

Lavatory Shower

Size per SBC 701,Table

911.3 as a common vent
Lavatory
Lavatory

Size per SBC 701, Table

912.3 as a wet vent Side-inlet sanitary tee
Water Closet

See SBC 701, Section 706.3 for the

Water Closet proper type of fitting to use for
connecting back-to-back water closets.
Water Closet
Bathtub

FIGURE 6-17 Vertical wet vent

Dry Vent

Code Shower
Essentials
• Only fixtures that are
part of the bathroom Bathtub
group can connect to
the wet-vented drain.
Water Closet
Fixtures that are not part
of the bathroom group The water closet and bathtub are served by the
must connect horizontal wet vent. However, because the shower
fixture drain rises vertically above the horizontal
downstream of the wet wet-vented branch, it must be provided with a vent.
vent section. l
FIGURE 6-18 Additional vent required

TABLE 6-3 Wet vent size

Wet vent pipe size Drainage fixture unit load

(mm) (dfu)
40 1

50 4

65 6

80 12
 Ve n t i n g M e t h o d s    9 5

Circuit venting [Ref. SBC 701 - 914]

You Should
Circuit venting is a method of horizontal wet venting that is not
limited to bathroom group fixtures. The horizontal circuit-vented
Know
section can serve as the vent for up to 8 fixture drains. Since the Definition for consider-
horizontal circuit-vented section serves as the vent for the fixture ation (see Glossary):
drains and fixture traps, each fixture drain being served by the circuit • Circuit vent l
vent must not exceed the maximum distance allowed per SBC 701,
Table 909.1 (Table 6-1), and the trap cannot be located above the
horizontal circuit vented branch unless it is separately trapped. Other
fixtures being separately vented may connect to the circuit-vented
horizontal branch, provided that such fixtures are located on the
same floor level as the circuit-vented horizontal branch. The dry vent Code
(called the circuit vent) serving the circuit-vented horizontal branch
section must be taken off the top of the horizontal drain downstream
Essentials
of the uppermost fixture drain in the circuit-vented horizontal sec- • Because the entire
tion and before the next downstream fixture drain also being served length of the circuit
by the circuit-vented section (Figure 6-19). This vent must be sized vented branch serving
in accordance with SBC 701, Section 906.2 and cannot serve as a up to 8 fixture drains is
drain for a fixture. It is truly a dry vent. The horizontal circuit-vented sized based on the total
branch shall be sloped not more than 8 percent. drainage fixture unit
value, the result is an
oversized horizontal
drain that maximizes air
flow for venting the
fixture traps.
• Unlike wet venting
systems serving up to 2
Individual Vent
bathroom groups, circuit
Circuit Vent
venting allows the
Individual Vent connection of other
40 mm
Common Vent fixtures and fixture
Floor Drain Kitchen
Bathtub
Sink drains that are not part
Lavatory 40 mm
Water 50 mm of a bathroom group,
Closet
provided that they are
Lavatory Bar 75 mm
Sink
75mm located on the same
floor level. l
Circuit vented section

The water closet, floor drain and bathtub traps and fixture drains are connected to a
horizontal branch drain, a portion of which is serving as a circuit vent. The air for the
circuit-vented section is being delivered by a dry vent that is called a “circuit vent.”
The circuit-vented section of the horizontal branch from the bathtub fixture drain to
the water closet fixture drain must be the same size as that required at the point
where the water closet fixture drain connects to the horizontal branch based on the
drainage fixture unit loading. Unlike horizontal wet venting for bathroom groups, the
kitchen sink does not need to connect downstream of the bathroom groups.

FIGURE 6-19 Circuit vent

 9 6    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

Circuit-vented sections can be connected in series (Figure 6-20).

Each circuit-vented horizontal section must be sized for its entirety
based on the total drainage fixture unit loading at the most down-
stream point of the circuit vent. This would include not only the
fixture drains and traps being served by that circuit vent, but also
the drainage fixture units of other fixtures and branches connected
within or upstream of the circuit vent.

Branch vent

Circuit vent

Circuit vent DF
Circuit vent
Drainage stack
2 1
recieving the DF 3
4
discharge of Relief vent 6
fixtures on an 8 7
2 1
upper floor 3 5
EFD
6 5
7
1 8 4
2
4 A
5
B
3
EFD C

Circuit vented branch

Section A has 7 water closets, 1 drinking fountain and 1 emergency floor drain totaling 29 drainage fixture units (dfu).
Section B has 7 water closets and 1 emergency floor drain totaling 28 dfu, plus 29 dfu discharging upstream for a total of 57 dfu.
Section C has 4 water closets, 1 drinking fountain and 1 emergency floor drain totaling 17 dfu, plus 57 dfu discharging from upstream for a total of 74 dfu.

This shows 3 circuit vents connected in series serving 6 Lpf water closets and emergency floor
drains. Each circuit vented section serves as the vent for no more than 8 fixtures. The circuit vent
itself must connect downstream of the first fixture drain being served by that circuit vented
section. Other vented fixture drains may connect within the circuit vented section as shown by the
2 drinking fountains. Each circuit vented section must be sized for its full length based on the total
discharge into the branch, including the upstream fixtures discharging into the branch.

FIGURE 6-20 Circuit vent in series

Where circuit-vented horizontal branches connect to a drainage

stack, a relief vent is required where both of the following conditions
exist: four or more water closets are connected to the horizontal
branch, and the drain stack serves fixtures from one or more upper
floors. The relief vent must connect to the horizontal drain between
its connection to the drainage stack and after the most downstream
fixture drain of the horizontal circuit-vented section. The relief vent
may also serve as the vent for one or more fixtures located on the
same floor level, but not more than 4 drainage fixture units total,
and it is to be sized in accordance with SBC 701, Section 906.2
(Figure 6-21). [Ref. SBC 701 - 914]
 Ve n t i n g M e t h o d s    9 7

Air Admittance Valves

Circuit vent

Floor drain Shower Lavatories

Water Closet
Water Closet

The relief vent is required

because both of the following
conditions exist: Shower
1. Horizontal branch is serving
Floor drain
4 or more water closets.
Water Closet
2. The drainage stack serves
fixtures on an upper floor. Water Closet Circuit-vented branch serving 4 water closets,
Note that the horizontal drain on 2 showers and 2 emergency floor drains.
the top floor also is serving 4 or
more water closets, but it does
Relief Vent
not connect to a drainage stack Circuit Vent
serving fixtures on an upper
floor. Therefore, a relief vent is Air Admittance Valves
not required. Floor drain
Water Closet Shower

Water Closet

Lavatories
Shower

Water Closet Floor drain

Water Closet
Circuit-vented branch serving 4 water closets,
2 showers and 2 emergency floor drains.

FIGURE 6-21 Circuit vents connecting to a stack

Combination waste and vent [Ref. SBC 701 - 915]

The combination waste and vent system is another type of horizon-
tal wet vent system that is best suited for large facilities, such as a
grocery store. It can only serve floor drains, sinks, lavatories and
drinking fountains, and cannot receive the discharge of a food waste
disposer or a clinical sink. Basically, it is an oversized horizontal
drain that is served by a dry vent so that the horizontal drain can
You Should
then serve as both the drain and the vent for the fixture traps. The Know
only vertical portion of the system other than the dry vent is the Definition for consider-
drain pipe extending upward from the horizontal drain to a fixture ation (see Glossary):
drain, and again this vertical pipe is oversized like the rest of the • Combination waste
system in order to serve as a vent to provide air to the fixture trap. and vent system l
This vertical extension cannot exceed 2.5 m. As with horizontal wet
venting for bathroom groups and circuit venting, the fixture drains
connecting to the combination waste and vent pipe system must
not exceed the maximum distance allowed per SBC 701, Table 909.1
(Table 6-1).
The size of the combination waste and vent system shall be in
accordance with SBC 701, Table 915.2.2 (Table 6-4). As you can
see from the table, the amount of drainage fixture units allowed is
increased where the combination waste and vent system is located at
9 8    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

the building drain or building subdrain level and connecting thereto,

as opposed to connecting to a drainage stack on a floor level above
the building drain. Keep in mind that the minimum size includes the
vertical portion of the combination waste and vent system. The hori-
zontal slope cannot exceed 4 percent. There is no limit as to how long
the combination waste and vent system can be.
TABLE 6-4 Size of combination waste and vent pipe

Maximum number of drainage fixture units (dfu)

Diameter pipe Connecting to a horizontal Connecting to a building
(mm) branch or stack drain or building subdrain
50 3 4

65 6 26

80 12 31

100 20 50

A dry vent is required unless the combination waste and vent

system is connected to a horizontal drain that serves vented fixtures
located on the same floor (Figure 6-22). The dry vent can connect
anywhere within the system and must rise vertically to a point at
least 150 mm above the flood level rim of the highest fixture being
served by the combination waste and vent system, and it must be
sized for the total drainage fixture units being served in accordance
with SBC 701, Section 906.2. [Ref. SBC 701 - 915]
Waste stack venting [Ref. SBC 701 - 913]
Waste stack venting is basically a vertical wet vent whereby the over-
sized drainage stack also serves as the vent for the fixture drains.
Neither vertical or horizontal offsets are allowed in the stack between
the lowest fixture drain connection and the highest fixture drain con-
nection. The drainage stack cannot serve water closets or urinals. In
this application, each fixture drain must connect separately to the
drainage stack while maintaining the allowed distance from the vent
(in this case the oversized drainage stack) to the trap as required in
SBC 701, Section 909 (Figure 6-23). The size of the drainage stack
shall be in accordance with SBC 701, Table 913.4 for its entire length
(Table 6-5).
A stack vent is required to extend from the top of the drainage
stack and shall be of the same diameter as the drainage stack. The
vent can include offsets located at least 150 mm above the flood level
rim of the highest fixture served, and it can interconnect with other
stack vents and vent stacks (Figure 6-23). [Ref. SBC 701 - 913]
 This vent is required because there are no
other fixtures on the branch being vented,
Hand Wash Sink
and it is not connected at the building drain Vertical distance
level that is serving fixtures that are
vented. Note that this vent can be located cannot exceed 2.5 m
Floor Sink
anywhere within the combined waste
EXAMPLE #1 and vent system.
Combination waste and vent
system connecting to a vent Floor drain
stack

Drainage stack
Fixture drains shall be Floor drain
sized in accordance
This combination waste and vent system connects to a Floor Sink with SBC 701, Table 909.1.
drainage stack. The system shall be sized in accordance
with SBC 701, Table 915.2.2 under the column titles
“Connection to a horizontal branch or stack.”
Note that this vent is not
necessary because the
EXAMPLE #2 combination waste and vent
Combination waste and vent system connects to a building Hand Wash Sink Vertical distance
drain that is already vented.
system connecting to a cannot exceed 2.5 m
building drain Floor Sink

Floor drain

Building Drain
Floor drain

Floor Sink
This combination waste and vent system connects to the
building drain. The system shall be sized in accordance
with SBC 701, Table 915.2.2, under the column titles
“Connection to a horizontal building drain or building subdrain.”

FIGURE 6-22 Combination waste and vent

Ve n t i n g M e t h o d s    9 9
1 0 0    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

TABLE 6-5 Waste stack vent size

Maximum number of drainage fixture units (dfu)

Total discharge into one branch Total discharge
Stack size (mm) interval for stack
40 1 2
50 2 4
65 No limit 8
80 No limit 24
100 No limit 50
125 No limit 75
150 No limit 100

Offsets allowed on
vent stack at least
Stack vent to be same
150 mm above flood
80 mm diameter as the stack
rim of fixture
80 mm

80 mm

No offsets allowed

No offsets allowed

80 mm
80 mm

Waste stack vent of kitchen sinkste stack vent of kitchen sinks

FIGURE 6-23 Waste stack venting

Single-stack venting [Ref. SBC 701 - 917]

Much like the waste stack vent system, a single-stack vent system
is an oversized drainage stack that serves as both a drain and a vent
for the fixtures connecting to it, except that the horizontal branches
connecting to the stack are also oversized and limited as to their
length in order to serve as the vent for water closets and urinals
(Figure 6-24). The drainage stack must be sized for its entire length
based on the drainage fixture unit load as determined in SBC 701,
Table 917.3 (Table 6-6).
 Ve n t i n g M e t h o d s    1 0 1

The drainage stack shall be equipped with a stack vent of the

same size as the drainage stack. The drainage stack is treated as Code
a typical drainage stack in that offsets are allowed, provided that Essentials
they are installed in accordance with SBC 701, Sections 710.1.1 and
The waste stack vent:
710.1.2, and vented as required in SBC 701, Sections 907 and 908.
• Cannot serve water
Additionally, stacks with more than two branch intervals cannot
closets or urinals
receive the discharge of horizontal branches on the lower two floors
• Shall not have vertical or
or horizontally downstream of the base of the stack within 10 pipe
horizontal offsets
diameters of the stack. [Ref. SBC 701 - 917]
between the uppermost
and lowest fixture drain
TABLE 6-6 Single-stack size connection
Maximum connected drainage fixture units (dfu) • Must have an
Stacks 25 meters Stacks 50 meters independent connection
Stack size Stacks less than 75 to less than 50 and greater in from each fixture drain l
(mm) meters in height meters in height height
75 24 NP NP
100 225 24 NP
125 480 225 24
150 1,015 480 225

VRT

Urinal
Water Closets
Shower

Plan View

Shower Urinal

Water Closets

FIGURE 6-24 Single-stack venting

1 0 2    C h a p t e r 6 Ve n t i n g

QUIZ
1. Vents may be installed level or flat when installed in the horizon-
tal position.
a. True
b. False

2. Wet venting can serve __________________________________

and can be used in __________________________________.
a. two bathroom groups / horizontal configuration only
b. a bathroom group / either a vertical or horizontal
configuration
c. any combination of fixtures within two bathroom groups /
either a vertical or horizontal configuration

3. Which of the following apply to circuit venting?

a. The horizontal circuit-vented section can serve as the vent
for up to eight fixture drains.
b. The fixture trap cannot be located above the horizontal
circuit-vented branch unless it is separately trapped.
c. Other fixtures being separately vented may connect to the
horizontal circuit-vented section, provided that such fixtures
are located on the same floor level as the horizontal circuit-
vented branch.
d. The circuit vent may serve as a fixture drain for a drinking
fountain.
e. All of the above
f. a, b and c only
CHAPTER
Storm Drainage
7

P
roper storm drainage is another very important factor in protect-
ing the health and safety of the public. Understandably, water
intrusion can wreak havoc on the structural integrity of a build-
ing, and create moisture and mold problems. Therefore, it is necessary to
provide adequate drainage to prevent water intrusion at the foundation
level and remove rainwater from the roof. This chapter addresses roof
drain materials, sizing, design and installation. Subsoil conditions that
relate to foundation and footing drains are also discussed.

103
1 0 4    C h a p t e r 7 S t o r m D r a i n a g e

You Should DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 11]
Know Rainwater from roofs must be discharged to an approved location.
Definitions for consider- This includes stormwater from other paved areas on the property.
ation (see Glossary): For one- and two-family dwellings an approved location could be to
• Rainwater flat areas, such as the lawn or street, provided that the drainage flows
• Storm water away from the building. Of course, each local jurisdiction will likely
• Conductor l dictate what is an approved location. The storm sewer and sanitary
sewer are to remain separate. While there may be some areas with
combined stormwater and sewer systems, always follow the local ju-
risdiction’s requirements for such discharge locations. Nonetheless,
the sanitary and storm systems within the structure shall remain
separate until outside of the structure, thus allowing for future sepa-
ration without major renovation of the systems within the structure.
For this reason the conductors within the structure cannot serve as a
drain or vent for the sanitary system, nor can a drain or vent pipe of
the sanitary system be used to convey rainwater (Figure 7-1).
Roof drains

Roof-ceiling assembly

Storm drainage stack

Sanitary drainage - Serving a bathroom

Sanitary drainage piping

Storm drainage, such as piping serving roof drains, must be separate from the
Combined sanitary - Storm sewer sanitary drainage system. However, where the building is served by a
combination sanitary-storm sewer, the storm drainage and sanitary drainage
may connect together, provided the connection of the two systems is made
outside of the structure.

FIGURE 7-1 Combined sanitary-storm sewer

 R o o f D r a i n s    1 0 5

In some areas storm sewer systems may become overloaded

due to heavy rainfall amounts. In fact, this can be more likely with
combined sanitary and storm systems. Therefore, SBC 701 requires
the installation of a backwater valve to protect the structure from
such backflow in the storm system. Additionally, traps are required
for the conductors and leaders to prevent sanitary sewer gasses
from entering the structure. Always check with the local jurisdic-
tion to determine when and where this may be a local requirement.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 1101.2, 1101.3, 1101.9, 1103.1, 1104.1,
1109.1]

ROOF DRAINS You Should

[Ref. SBC 701 - 1101] Know
Materials [Ref. SBC 701 - 1102] Definition for consider-
ation (see Glossary):
Storm drain piping materials within a structure are the same as the
• Roof drain l
material requirements for the drain, waste and vent system as identi-
fied in SBC 701, Sections 702.1 and 702.2 (Table 7-1). The approved
fittings would also be those approved for the type of material used
in accordance with SBC 701, Table 1102.7. Once outside of the struc-
ture and underground, building storm sewer pipe may be of materi-
als identified in SBC 701, Table 1102.4. Here again, the fittings used
to connect the pipe must be those approved for the type of material
identified in SBC 701, Table 1102.7.
Roof drains must conform to ASME A112.6.4 or ASME A112.3.1
as applicable to the type of piping material being used. These will
also be provided with a dome or grate strainer to prevent leaves and
debris from entering the storm drainage system. [Ref. SBC 701 -
1102.1, 1102.2, 1102.3, 1102.4, 1102.6, 1102.7]
TABLE 7-1 Drainage materials
Material Above ground Below ground
ABS X X
PVC X X
Cast Iron X X

Stainless Steel 304 X —

Stainless Steel 316L X X
1 0 6    C h a p t e r 7 S t o r m D r a i n a g e

Installation [Ref. SBC 701 - 1101]

The installation requirements for the sanitary system also apply to
the storm drainage system. These include connecting the appropriate
fittings necessary for changes in direction (Table 7-2) in such a man-
ner as to prevent obstructions or ledges, not decreasing the size of
the drain in the direction of flow, and providing cleanouts for proper
piping system maintenance. Note that cleanouts are not required for
subsurface drainage systems such as foundation drains. [Ref. SBC
701 - 1101.5, 1101.6, 1101.8]
TABLE 7-2 SBC 701, Table 706.3 Fittings for change in direction

Change in direction
Type of fitting Horizontal to Vertical to Horizontal to
pattern vertical horizontal horizontal
Sixteenth bend X X X
Eighth bend X X X
Sixth bend X X X
Quarter bend X X a
Xa
Short sweep X Xa,b Xa
Long sweep X X X
Sanitary tee X c
— —
Wye X X X
Combination wye
X X X
and eighth bend

a. The fittings shall only be permitted for a 50 mm or smaller fixture drain.

b. 80 mm or larger.
c. For a limitation on double sanitary tees, see Section 706.3.

You Should Design and sizing [Ref. SBC 701 - 1101, 1106, 1108]
Know Typically, there are three methods used for directing rainwater from
the roof to a proper point of discharge: roof drains, scuppers, and
Definitions for consider-
gutters.
ation (see Glossary):
SBC 201 addresses the proper design and structural requirements
• Conductor
for roofs, including any ponding or storage of rainwater. Typically,
• Leader l
roofs will be designed to handle 50 mm of ponding water should
primary roof drainage be blocked, at which point overflow drainage
will prevent any further ponding should the roof be surrounded by
parapet or side walls. Where roof drains are to be placed will depend
on the design of the roof. When determining the roof area, one must
also take into consideration any vertical side walls that may drain
water from its surface onto a roof by counting 50 percent of the wall
area as roof area to be added to the roof surface to which it drains
(Figure 7-2). With this information and knowing the 100-year hourly
rainfall rate as determined in accordance with SBC 701, Section
1106.1, the size of horizontal storm water piping and conductors
 R o o f D r a i n s    1 0 7

can be identified in SBC 701, Table 1106.2 (Table 7-3). Leaders will
be sized as shown in SBC 701, Section 1106.3 (Table 7-4 and Figure
7-3). Scupper openings cannot be less than 4 inches in height and
must have a width that is equal to or greater than the circumference
of a roof drain sized for the same area. Exterior horizontal gutters
are sized in accordance with SBC 701, Table 1106.6(1) and the lead-
ers, often referred to as downspouts, will be sized as indicated in SBC
701, Table 1106.3 (Figures 7-4 and 7-5, Table 7-5).

Where a vertical wall diverts rainwater to

the roof, one-half of the wall area shall
be added to the projected roof area
when calculating storm drain piping.

Overflow
Scupper Prim
Ro ary
of
Dra
in

FIGURE 7-2 Side wall area

TABLE 7-3 Storm drain pipe sizing

Capacity (Liters per minute)
Pipe size Slope of horizontal drain
(mm) Vertical
drain 5 mm per 10 mm per 20 mm per 40 mm per
meter meter meter meter

50 130 60 80 120 170

80 330 150 210 300 420
100 680 310 440 620 870

TABLE 7-4 Vertical leader sizing

Size of leader Capacity
(mm) (Liters per minute)
50 110
50 x 50 110
40 x 65 110
65 200
65 x 65 200
75 350
50 x 100 350
65 x 75 350
100 730
1 0 8    C h a p t e r 7 S t o r m D r a i n a g e

Scupper Scupper
(secondary drain) (secondary drain)

The vertical leader is to be sized in

accordance with Table 1106.3 based
on the design flow rate in Lpm.

FIGURE 7-4 Gutter and

downspout

The quantity, size, location and inlet elevation of both primary and secondary
scuppers must be designed to prevent the depth of ponding water on the roof
from exceeding the structural integrity as determined by SBC 701. However the
minimum height of scuppers shall not be less than 100 mm and shall have
a width that is equal to or greater than the circumference of a roof drain sized.

FIGURE 7-3 Scuppers

Horizontal gutters to be
sized in accordance
with SBC 701, Table 1106.6(1)
Roof

Downspout (vertical
leader) is to be sized
in accordance with
SBC 701, Table 1106.3

Terminate to an
approved location

FIGURE 7-5 Gutters and downspouts

TABLE 7-5 Horizontal gutter sizing

Gutter dimensionsa Slope Capacity
(mm) (mm per meter) (Liters per minute)
40 × 65 21 98
40 × 65 42 151
100 10 147
56 × 80 21 208
56 × 80 42 330
125 10 280
100 × 65 21 400
a. Dimensions are width by depth for rectangular shapes. Single dimensions are diameters of a
semicircle.
 R o o f D r a i n s    1 0 9

As discussed previously, it is important to provide some method

of emergency drainage should the primary roof drainage serving
a roof area surrounded by parapet walls be blocked. This can be
accomplished by adding a secondary roof drain or scupper to prevent
the ponding of water beyond what the roof is designed to handle.
Typically, this will be a limit of 50 mm of ponding water. The size
of the secondary system, including horizontal drains, conductors,
leaders and scuppers, will be the same as required for the primary
roof drain system. This secondary drainage method must be sepa-
rate from the primary drains and the point of discharge needs to be
observable, thus indicating to occupants that the primary roof drain
is blocked (Figures 7-6 and 7-7). [Ref. SBC 701 - 1101.7, 1106,
1108]

Roof Drain

Primary
Secondary
Roof Drain
Roof Drain

Discharge of secondary Sized in accordance

drain to be above grade with SBC 701,
and observable Table1106.2

To storm sewer

FIGURE 7-6 Secondary roof drain

Roof Drain
Scupper Scupper
(secondary drain) (secondary drain)

Primary Roof Drain

Sized in accordance
with SBC 701, Table
1106.2

To storm sewer

FIGURE 7-7 Secondary roof scuppers

11 0    C h a p t e r 7 S t o r m D r a i n a g e

Testing [Ref. SBC 701 - 312, 1101.4]

Testing is required for the roof drain system within the structure. It is
not required for storm drainage outside of the structure. The testing
of the system is the same as that required for the roughed-in portions
of the DWV. This will involve a test of the roughed-in installation
prior to enclosing the wall, floor and ceiling construction, which may
require being tested in phases of construction. This can be a stand-
ing water test or an air test, keeping in mind that air testing is not
allowed for plastic pipe.
The standing water test involves closing all openings except the
highest opening. The system is then filled with water to the highest
point for not less than 15 minutes to verify that the system is water-
tight at all points.
A minimum 34.5 kPa air test is another method that can be used
on material other than plastic. Again, this test must be conducted for
not less than 15 minutes to verify that the system is airtight. This
will require the use of a test gauge to verify the accuracy of the test.
Since the required test pressure is under 69 kPa, the gauge must show
pressure increments of 0.69 kPa or less. [Ref. SBC 701 - 312.1,
Code 312.1.1, 312.2, 312.3, 312.8, 1101.4]
Essentials
While SBC 701 contains
Siphonic roof drain systems [Ref. SBC 701 - 1107]
provisions addressing roof SBC 701 recognizes siphonic roof drain systems as an acceptable
drains and subsoil drains, alternative to the prescriptive design criteria outlined in SBC 701,
additional provisions nec- Chapter 11. These systems are well suited for large open-area build-
essary for proper installa- ings, such as major home stores and warehouses, where the design
tion of these systems are calls for a reduced number of interior support walls or columns, these
found in SBC 201, Chapter being where typical roof drain conductors would be located. Siphonic
18 (for subsoil drains) roof drain systems are especially suited for geographical regions sub-
and Chapter 15 (for roof ject to storms producing extreme hourly rainfall amounts.
drains). ⦁ Because these systems create a siphonic action, they can signifi-
cantly increase the liters per minute flow while minimizing the diam-
eter of storm drain piping, yet at the same time allowing the horizon-
tal drain piping to be installed level. In order to accomplish this, one
must adhere strictly to the engineered design. Siphonic roof drains
and siphonic roof drain systems must be designed in accordance with
ASME A112.6.9 and ASPE 45. [Ref. SBC 701 - 1107]

SUBSOIL (FOUNDATION/FOOTING)
DRAINS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 1102.7, 1111, 1112, 1113]
SBC 201 dictates when subsoil drainage is required. This includes
foundation/footing drains (Figure 7-8). These codes also outline
the location of the drain pipe, the depth of the pipe in relation to
the foundation footing, and the type and extent of gravel, rock
and membrane material required for the installation of the subsoil
 S u b s o i l ( F o u n d a t i o n / F o o t i n g ) D r a i n s    111

drainage system (Figure 7-9). SBC 701 addresses the pipe and fitting
installation.
Subsoil drains shall be not less than 100 mm in diameter. The
type of pipe acceptable for subsoil drains is identified in SBC 701,
Table 1102.5, and the fittings used must be approved for the type of
piping material selected in accordance with SBC 701, Table 1102.7.
Where subsoil drainage is subject to backup from the storm system
as might be more common when connecting to a combination sani- FIGURE 7-8 Foundation drainage
tary-storm sewer, a backwater valve is required.
Where building subdrains are below the public sewer level, or
where it is necessary to pump the contents to an elevated point of
approved discharge, a sump and pump are required. The sump must You Should
be at least 450 mm in diameter and not less than 610 mm in depth. Know
The sump or pit is not required to have a gastight cover or vent as Definition for consider-
is required for a sewage ejector sump in a sanitary drainage system. ation (see Glossary):
However, this should be considered if discharging to a combined • Subsoil drain l
sanitary-storm sewer. The discharge piping shall be equipped with
a check valve with a full-open valve on the downstream side of the
check valve. Note that only the check valve is required for one- and
two-family dwellings. [Ref. SBC 701 - 1102.7, 1111.1, 1112.1,
1113.1.2, 1113.1.4]

rade
sh g
Fini

Dampproofing
Alternative
location for filter
membrane Basement

Minimum
150 mm
Concrete floor
Minimum Gravel base
50 mm
Optional keyway
Washed gravel
base and cover Continuous filter membrane
Perforated pipe (“sock”) over perforated pipe
drain
FIGURE 7-9 Foundation drain installation
11 2    C h a p t e r 7 S t o r m D r a i n a g e

QUIZ
1. A secondary roof drain or scupper is necessary to ____________.
a. prevent the ponding of water beyond what the roof is designed
to handle
b. limit the ponding of water to no more than 50 mm
c. minimize liability on the part of the building owner

2. The secondary drainage method must be separate from the pri-

mary drains and the point of discharge must be observable, thus
indicating to occupants that the primary roof drain is blocked.
a. True
b. False

3. Siphonic roof drain systems must be designed in accordance with

ASME A112.6.9 and ASPE 45, and the installation must adhere
strictly to the engineered design.
a. True
b. False
PART
Water Distribution
IV
Chapter 8: Water Piping
Chapter 9: Backflow Protection
Chapter 10: Water Reuse

11 3
 CHAPTER
Water Piping
8

E
ssential to the protection of public health, safety and welfare is
providing clean water for drinking, bathing and culinary pur-
poses. In many locations, public water utilities, usually under
the authority of local health codes, will treat and distribute potable
water to residential and nonresidential properties. In more rural loca-
tions it is common to find individual well systems that may serve one
or more individual properties, and these too may be regulated by local
health codes.
However, once the potable water is distributed to a property, SBC
701 contains provisions necessary for distributing the potable water
throughout the property and structure or occupancy such that adequate
water pressure and volume of water is provided to fixtures and equip-
ment for proper functioning. This chapter discusses the water piping
system for water distribution and covers piping materials, connections,
valves and pipe sizing.
11 4
114
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    11 5

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS You Should

[Ref. SBC 701 - 601, 602]
Potable water shall be provided to residential and nonresidential
Know
structures equipped with plumbing fixtures utilized for human occu- Definition for consider-
pancy or habitation, unless otherwise stated in the code. The quality ation (see Glossary):
of the water is determined by the authority having jurisdiction. Of- • Potable water l
ten, this will be a local health department rather than the code offi-
cial. The minimum volume (usually identified as liters per minute, or
Lpm) and the water pressure necessary to ensure proper functioning
of the fixtures is addressed in the code. However, some fixtures may
require increased volume or pressure, so it is important to follow the
manufacturer’s installation instructions. [Ref. SBC 701 - 602.1,
602.2, 602.3.2, 602.3.3]
Materials [Ref. SBC 701 - 601, 605]
Water service piping is commonly installed underground from the You Should
water source to a structure, so there is a need to ensure that the soil Know
or ground water is not contaminated with fuels, solvents or other Definitions for consider-
substances that can cause corrosion or permeation. All pipes, tubing, ation (see Glossary):
fittings, valves and faucets used in the water supply system must • Water distribution
conform to NSF 61 and shall contain not more than 8 percent lead pipe
content. If utilized to supply water for drinking or culinary purposes • Water service pipe
they must comply with NSF 372 and have a weighted average lead • Water supply
content of 0.25 percent or less. Some piping materials are approved system l
for both water service (typically outside of the structure and under-
ground) and water distribution (typically inside a structure above
and below ground). Such piping is defined as either a water service
or water distribution by where it is located. Water service material
that is not approved for water distribution may terminate inside of a
structure at or before the main shutoff valve located at its entrance
to the structure (Figure 8-1).

Transition to Water
Service Material

Full-open Valve

Grade Under-floor Crawl space Grade

Concrete Slab Floor

Transition to Water Pipe Sleeve (typical)

Full-open Valve Service Material Water Service Material
Water Service Material

Pipe Sleeve (typical)

FIGURE 8-1 Water service termination

11 6    C h a p t e r 8 W a t e r P i p i n g

SBC 701, Table 605.3 lists the types of pipe and tubing approved
You Should for water service and identifies the applicable material standards
Know (Table 8-1). Where used as the water service, the pipe or tubing must
SBC 701 mandates not have a working pressure rating of 1100 kPa or more, but not less
more than 8 percent than the highest available pressure. Keep in mind that the highest
lead content in materi- available pressure may well occur during the overnight periods due
als used for the dis- to decreased use of water in residences or businesses. A word of cau-
tribution of potable tion is in order regarding replacing existing metallic water service
water. A small amount with plastic pipe or tubing. Metallic pipe is often used for electrical
of lead is necessary grounding. If the water pipe is replaced with plastic material, you
in order to form brass need to make sure that another approved means of electrical ground-
in the manufacturing ing is provided.
process. However, the TABLE 8-1 Materials for water service
wetted surfaces where Material Standard
the potable water is in ASTM F876; ASTM F877; AWWA C904; CSA
PEX pipe and tubing
contact with the interior B137.5
surface of the pipe, fit- Ductile iron water pipe AWWA C151/A21.51; AWWA C115/A21.15
ting, valve or faucet, will PE plastic tubing ASTM D2737; AWWA C901; CSA B137.1
meet the requirement Stainless steel pipe (type 304/304L) and
ASTM A312; ASTM A778
of having not more than (Type 316/316L)
a weighted average of ASTM D1785; ASTM D2241; ASTM D2672; CSA
PVC plastic pipe
0.25 percent. l B137.3

SBC 701, Table 605.4 lists the types of pipe and tubing approved
for water distribution (Table 8-2). Hot water pipe and tubing must
have a pressure rating of at least 690 kPa at 82°C. SBC 701, Table
605.5 identifies the fittings approved for use (Table 8-3). The fittings
must be compatible with the pipe or tubing material, and it is impera-
tive that you follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions in
this regard. The same is true with valves installed within the water
supply system. The approved types of valves are shown in SBC 701,
Table 605.7. [Ref. SBC 701 - 601.3, 605.1, 605.2, 605.2.1, 605.3,
605.4, 605.5, 605.7]

TABLE 8-2 Materials for water distribution

Material Standard
CPVC ASTM D2846; ASTM F441; ASTM F442; CSA
B137.6
Copper tubing (Types K, WK, L, WL, M or ASTM B75; ASTM B88; ASTM B251; ASTM
WM) B447
PEX plastic tubing ASTM F876; ASTM F877; CSA B137.5
PEX-AL-PEX pipe ASTM F1281; ASTM F2262; CSA B137.10
PP plastic pipe or tubing ASTM F2389; CSA B137.11
Stainless steel pipe (Type 304/304L) and ASTM A312; ASTM A778
(Type 316/316L)
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    11 7

TABLE 8-3 Pipe fittings

Material Standard
ASSE 1061; ASTM F877; ASTM F1807; ASTM F1960; ASTM
PEX plastic tubing F2080; ASTM F2098; ASTM F2159; ASTM F2434; ASTM
F2735; CSA B137.5
ASTM D2609; ASTM D2683; ASTM D3261; ASTM F1055;
PE plastic pipe
CSA B137.1
Stainless steel pipe (Type 304/304L) and (Type 316/316L) ASTM A312; ASTM A778; ASTM F1476; ASTM F1548
PVC plastic ASTM D2464; ASTM D2466; ASTM D2467; CSA B137.2; CSA
B137.3
CPVC plastic ASSE 1061; ASTM D2846; ASTM F437; ASTM F438; ASTM
F439; CSA B137.6
PP plastic pipe or tubing ASTM F2389; CSA B137.11
Metal (brass) insert fittings for PEX-AL-PEX ASTM F1974
Copper or copper alloy ASME B16.15; ASME B16.18; ASME B16.22; ASME B16.26;
ASME B16.51; ASSE 1061; ASTM F1476; ASTM F1548

Joints and connections [Ref. SBC 701 - 605]

SBC 701, Sections 605.10 through 605.24 address the various types
of materials used in the water supply system and include the ap-
plicable material or product standards. It is extremely important
to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions in the joining
process. Approved adapter or transition fittings are required where
connecting different types of material. Where connecting copper
or copper-alloy tubing to galvanized pipe, the joint must be made
with a copper-alloy fitting or a dielectric fitting or dielectric union.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 605.10 through 605.24]
Testing and disinfection
[Ref. SBC 701 - 312, 601.4, 610]
The water supply system must be tested for leaks. When testing with
water, such water must be obtained from a potable source, such as
the source of potable water serving the property or a neighboring
property’s potable water supply system. When tested this way, the
pressure test shall not be less than the working pressure of the sys-
tem when connected to the property’s water source. The duration of
the test shall not be less than 15 minutes.
An air test of not less than 344 kPa may be used on piping sys-
tems other than plastic. Again, the test duration must be at least
15 minutes. The test gauge used must have increments of 7 kPa or
less for tests between 344 kPa and 690 kPa. If the test pressure is
greater than 690 kPa, the test gauge increments shall be of 14 kPa
or less.
Check with the local health department or water purveyor to see
if there are any requirements for disinfection of the water supply
system prior to use, and if so, what is required for proper disinfec-
tion. Where disinfection is required, the code outlines a disinfection
11 8    C h a p t e r 8 W a t e r P i p i n g

procedure that may be acceptable to these authorities. The process

involves purging the new water supply system of deleterious matter
by flushing the system with clean, potable water until observed as
clean at all outlets. Then the system is filled with a water/chlorine
solution as outlined in SBC 701, Section 610.1, after which the system
is flushed with clean, potable water to remove the chlorine solution.
The sample of the clean, potable water left in the system can then be
subjected to a bacteriological examination. Note that it is common
practice to purge the new water supply system of deleterious matter
by flushing the system with clean, potable water until observed as
clean at all outlets. [Ref. SBC 701 - 312.1.1, 312.5, 601.4, 610]
Design and installation [Ref. SBC 701 - 604]
Since occupancies are generally provided with both hot and cold
You Should water, it is important to make sure that the two systems, where in-
terconnected as needed, are installed such that flow between the two
Know systems is prevented. For instance, where both hot and cold water are
Definitions for consider- connected to a service (mop) sink, installing a shutoff downstream
ation (see Glossary): of the faucet outlet and then leaving the hot and cold controls at
• Quick-closing valve the faucet in the “on” position will create an interconnection that
• Water-hammer will allow the hot water to flow into the cold water. This can create a
arrestor l potential for injury due to unexpected hot water at another fixture.
Where the water pressure provided to the property exceeds
550 kPa, the water pressure within the building must be reduced to
no more than 550 kPa by means of an approved pressure reducing
valve. There is an exception that will allow higher pressure to service
sinks, sill cocks and outside hydrants, provided that the pressure is
reduced to not more than 550 kPa to the remaining fixtures.
Where quick-closing valves are installed, approved water-hammer
arrestors that conform to ASSE 1010 must be installed in order to
reduce or control anticipated water hammer in the system when the
valves close automatically, and often
Pressurized air quite suddenly (Figure 8-2). This is gen-
Diaphragm
erally the case with the hot water con-
Water
nection to a dishwasher, and both the
hot and cold water connection to an
automatic clothes washer. These devices
Pressurized air
must be installed in accordance with the
O-ring sealed piston
Pressurized air
manufacturer’s installation instructions
as to the location and connection to the
Water

Compression element

FIGURE 8-2 Water-hammer arrestors

 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    11 9

water system in relation to the quick-closing valve. [Ref. SBC 701 -

604.2, 604.8, 604.9] You Should
Valves [Ref. SBC 701 - 604, 606] Know
Definitions for consider-
The code requires valves to be placed at certain locations for mainte-
ation (see Glossary):
nance purposes. Some locations where full-open valves are required
• Access (to)
are: (1) on the water distribution supply pipe at the entrance to a
• Ready access
structure; (2) at the base of every water riser pipe, except in one- and
• Fixture supply
two-family residential occupancies and multiple-family residential
• Water pipe, riser
occupancies that are not more than two stories in height; (3) at the
• Full-open valve l

Office Building Full-open valve on the water

supply pipe to every water heater

Second
Full-open valve on the Story
top of every water Hot water out Cold water in
down-feed pipe

First
Story
Water Heater
Full-open valve on the base
of every water riser pipe

Full-open valve on the

Water Service
water distribution pipe
at the entrance into the
structure

FIGURE 8-3 Required valves

entrance of the water supply pipe to

a dwelling unit; and (4) on the wa-
ter supply pipe to the water heater
(Figure 8-3). Full-open valves are re-
quired to have access.
Shutoff valves, such as an angle-
stop shutoff valve, are required on
the fixture supply to each fixture
or appliance, except for bathtubs
and showers in one- and two-family
residential occupancies (Figure 8-4).
Access shall be provided to all shutoff
valves.
The shutoff valve for fixtures and
appliances is allowed to be located at
a manifold. The shutoff valves must
be integral factory- or field-installed FIGURE 8-4 Angle stop and FIGURE 8-5 Manifold with fixture
supply shutoff valves
1 2 0    C h a p t e r 8 W a t e r P i p i n g

valves, and they must be provided with access (Figure 8-5). [Ref. SBC
You Should 701 - 604.10.2, 604.10.3, 606.1, 606.2, 606.3]
Know Sizing [Ref. SBC 701 - 603, 604, Appendix E]
Definitions for consider-
There are some basic sizing requirements outlined in the code that
ation (see Glossary):
apply to any sizing method used. For instance, the size of the water
• Accepted
service is determined by the demand load of the fixtures, but in no
engineering practice
case shall the water service be less than 65 mm diameter. The code
• Private
prescribes the minimum liters per minute (L/min) flow rate and flow
• Public or public
pressure for fixtures in SBC 701, Table 604.3, as well as the maximum
utilization l
flow rate for certain fixtures in SBC Table 604.4 for the purpose of
water conservation. The minimum size of the water supply pipe serv-
ing the fixture is identified in SBC 701, Table 604.5; this minimum
pipe size is the individual fixture branch that terminates with the fix-
ture shutoff valve (Table 8-4). The water supply pipe must terminate
not more than 750 mm from the point of connection with the fixture,
at which point an approved, reduced-size flexible water connector
TABLE 8-4 Sizing requirements for fixtures

Fixture Minimum flow rate Maximum flow rate Minimum flow Minimum pipe size
(L/min) (kPa) pressure (mm)
Bathtub (standard size) 15 N/A 138 13
Shower (balanced pressure) 9.5 a
9.5 L/min @ 550 kPa 138 13
Lavatory (private) 3.0 6 L/min @ 415 kPa 55 10
Water closet 12 3.0 + 0.5 L p/flush cycle 138 10
(tank type close-coupled)
Kitchen sink (residential) 6.5 6 L/min @ 415 kPa 55 13
Dishwasher (residential) 10 N/A 55 13
Hose bibb 20 N/A 55 13

a. Where the shower mixing valve manufacturer indicates a lower flow rating for the mixing valve, the lower value shall be applied.

may be installed from the fixture shutoff valve to the fixture in ac-
cordance with SBC 701, Section 605.6.
There is an exception for gridded and parallel water distribution
systems. The fixture shutoff valves in these types of systems are
located at a manifold, and each individual supply line extends from
the fixture shutoff valve to the fixture served wherever it may be
located in the occupancy (Figure 8-5). The manifold is sized in accor-
dance with SBC 701, Table 604.10.1, which is based on the maximum
L/min demand allowed per pipe diameter at 1.2 m/sec and 2.4 m/sec.
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    1 2 1

The minimum water supply pipe from the fixture shutoff valve at the
manifold to the fixture must comply with SBC 701, Table 604.5. Code
The method for sizing the water supply system is not specified Essentials
in SBC 701, Chapter 6 since it is left to the designer of the system to Sizing the water supply
make that determination. However, the method used must conform and distribution system—
to accepted engineering practice and also requires the approval of the prescriptive design versus
code official. SBC 701, Appendix E provides two sizing methods that performance design:
have been standard engineering practice for many years. Both meth- • SBC 701 establishes the
ods take into consideration the peak demand on the system and the minimum requirements.
expected pressure losses. • While prescriptive sizing
The first method is found in SBC 701, Section E103 and includes tables may be
instructions along with an example showing how to calculate pipe somewhat easier or
sizes. Charts and tables are provided that reflect the expected pres- expedient for the
sure loss due to the flow through meters, valves and fittings, as well designer, it most often
as friction in the flow of water through different types of pipe or results in a slightly
tubing. Pressure will decrease when the water service rises in eleva- oversized system.
tion from the source to the point of delivery, and the pressure will • Performance-based
increase where the point of delivery is lower than the source due design may require
to the weight of water. These factors are used in determining the additional expertise or
residual water pressure, which is then used to further calculate the time to develop, but it
flow rates to outlets and fixtures. The distance from the water source will result in the
to the furthest outlet, which in many cases may be through the water minimum size required.
heater to the furthest hot water outlet, must be taken into consider- • The reality is that the
ation. This is referred to as the developed length. Friction loss charts term performance
for different types of piping material are provided by pipe and tubing applies to both
manufacturers for the designer to use in determining the anticipated prescriptive and
L/min flow for pipe diameters based on the velocity of flow in feet performance design in
per second. SBC 701, Table E103.3(2) is used to determine the water that the system must be
supply fixture units for fixtures based on the type of fixture and tested not just for leaks,
whether it is serving a private or public occupancy use (Table 8-5), but also for
after which SBC 701, Table E103.3(3) (Table 8-6) is used for convert- performance. l
ing the water supply fixture unit values to liters per minute based on
whether the system serves flush tanks (Figure 8-6) or flushometer
valves (Figure 8-7).

FIGURE 8-6 Flush tank FIGURE 8-7 Flushometer valves

1 2 2    C h a p t e r 8 W a t e r P i p i n g

The second method in SBC 701, Appendix E provides more of a

prescriptive design approach, although still taking into consideration
the developed length. Rather than calculating friction losses for dif-
ferent fittings and valves, the developed length is adjusted by multi-
plying the distance by a factor of 1.2 to compensate for pressure loss
through fittings. SBC 701, Table E201.1 (Table 8-7) is then used to
determine the appropriate size of the meter, water service and distri-
bution pipes or branches using the water supply fixture unit values
for the fixtures as shown in SBC 701, Appendix E, Table E103.3(2).
Instructions are included to assist the designer in using this method.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 603.1, 604.1, 604.3, 604.4, 604.5, 604.10.1,
Appendix E]

TABLE 8-5 Load values assigned to fixtures

Load values, in water supply fixture
Type of supply units (wsfu)
Fixtureª Occupancy
control
Cold Hot Total
Bathroom group Private Flush tank 2.7 1.5 3.6
Bathroom group Private Flushometer valve 6.0 3.0 8.0
Bathtub Private Faucet 1.0 1.0 1.4
Bathtub Public Faucet 3.0 3.0 4.0
Bidet Private Faucet 1.5 1.5 2.0
Combination fixture Private Faucet 2.25 2.25 3.0
Dishwashing machine Private Automatic — 1.4 1.4
Drinking fountain Offices, etc. 10 mm valve 0.25 — 0.25
Kitchen sink Private Faucet 1.0 1.0 1.4
Kitchen sink Hotel, restaurant Faucet 3.0 3.0 4.0
Laundry trays (1 to 3) Private Faucet 1.0 1.0 1.4
Lavatory Private Faucet 0.5 0.5 0.7
Lavatory Public Faucet 1.5 1.5 2.0
Service sink Offices, etc. Faucet 2.25 2.25 3.0
Shower head Public Mixing valve 3.0 3.0 4.0
Shower head Private Mixing valve 1.0 1.0 1.4
Urinal Public 25 mm flushometer 10.0 — 10.0
valve
Urinal Public 20 mm flushometer 5.0 — 5.0
valve
Urinal Public Flush tank 3.0 — 3.0
Washing machine (4 kg) Private Automatic 1.0 1.0 1.4
Washing machine (4 kg) Public Automatic 2.25 2.25 3.0
Washing machine (7 kg) Public Automatic 3.0 3.0 4.0
Water closet Private Flushometer valve 6.0 — 6.0
Water closet Private Flush tank 2.2 — 2.2
Water closet Public Flushometer valve 10.0 — 10.0
Water closet Public Flush tank 5.0 — 5.0
Water closet Public or private Flushometer tank 2.0 — 2.0

a. For fixtures not listed, loads should be assumed by comparing the fixture to one listed using water in similar quantities and at
similar rates. The assigned loads for fixtures with both hot and cold water supplies are given for separate hot and cold water loads
and for total load. The separate hot and cold water loads are three-fourths of the total load for the fixture in each case.
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    1 2 3

TABLE 8-6 Table for estimating demand

SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR
FOR FLUSH TANKS FLUSHOMETER VALVES
Load Demand Load Demand
(Water (Water
(Cubic (Cubic
supply (Liter per supply (Liter per
meter per meter per
fixture minute) fixture minute)
second) second)
units) units)
1 11.4 0.000189 — — —
2 18.9 0.000315 — — —
3 24.6 0.000410 — — —
4 30.3 0.000505 — — —
5 35.6 0.000593 5 56.8 0.000946
6 40.5 0.000675 6 65.9 0.001098
7 44.7 0.000744 7 74.9 0.001249
8 48.4 0.000807 8 84.0 0.001400
9 51.9 0.000864 9 93.1 0.001552
10 55.3 0.000921 10 102.2 0.001703
11 58.3 0.000971 11 105.2 0.001754
12 60.6 0.001009 12 108.3 0.001804
13 62.5 0.001041 13 111.3 0.001855
14 64.3 0.001072 14 114.3 0.001905
15 66.2 0.001104 15 117.3 0.001956
16 68.1 0.001136 16 120.4 0.002006
17 69.6 0.001161 17 123.4 0.002057
18 71.2 0.001186 18 126.4 0.002107
19 72.7 0.001211 19 129.4 0.002157
20 74.2 0.001236 20 132.5 0.002208
25 81.4 0.001356 25 143.8 0.002397
30 88.2 0.001470 30 159.0 0.002650
35 94.2 0.001571 35 166.5 0.002776
40 99.5 0.001659 40 174.1 0.002902
45 104.8 0.001747 45 181.7 0.003028
50 110.1 0.001836 50 189.3 0.003154
60 121.1 0.002019 60 204.4 0.003407
70 132.5 0.002208 70 219.5 0.003659
80 143.8 0.002397 80 231.6 0.003861
90 155.2 0.002586 90 243.4 0.004056
100 164.6 0.002744 100 255.5 0.004258
120 181.7 0.003028 120 276.3 0.004605
140 198.7 0.003312 140 291.4 0.004857
160 215.7 0.003596 160 306.6 0.005110
180 230.9 0.003848 180 323.6 0.005394
200 246.0 0.004100 200 340.7 0.005678
225 265.0 0.004416 225 361.5 0.006024
250 283.9 0.004731 250 382.3 0.006371
275 302.8 0.005047 275 395.5 0.006592
300 321.7 0.005362 300 408.8 0.006813
400 397.4 0.006624 400 480.7 0.008012
500 469.3 0.007822 500 541.3 0.009021
750 643.5 0.010724 750 669.9 0.011166
1,000 787.3 0.013121 1,000 787.3 0.013121
1,250 904.6 0.015077 1,250 904.6 0.015077
1,500 1018.2 0.016969 1,500 1018.2 0.016969
1,750 1124.1 0.018736 1,750 1124.1 0.018736
2,000 1230.1 0.020502 2,000 1230.1 0.020502
2,500 1438.3 0.023972 2,500 1438.3 0.023972
3,000 1638.9 0.027315 3,000 1638.9 0.027315
4,000 1987.1 0.033119 4,000 1987.1 0.033119
5,000 2244.5 0.037408 5,000 2244.5 0.037408
1 2 4    C h a p t e r 8 W a t e r P i p i n g

TABLE 8-7 Minimum size of water meters, mains and distribution piping based on fixture units
METER AND
DISTRIBUTION PIPE
SERVICE PIPE MAXIMUM DEVELOPMENT LENGTH (meter)
(mm)
(mm)
Pressure Range 200 to 269 kPa 40 60 80 100 150 200 250 300 400 500
20 15 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.5 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0
20 20 2.9 2.3 1.8 1.7 1.2 1.1 0.9 0.8 0.6 0.5
20 25 9.8 7.6 6.1 5.0 3.4 2.7 2.4 2.0 1.7 1.4
25 25 9.8 9.8 8.2 6.4 4.1 3.0 2.4 2.1 1.7 1.5
20 32 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.1 7.3 6.1 5.2 4.0 3.2
25 32 24.4 24.4 21.3 18.6 13.7 10.4 8.2 6.7 4.9 3.7
40 32 24.4 24.4 24.4 22.9 16.5 12.2 9.4 7.6 5.3 4.0
25 40 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 25.6 22.3 19.5 17.1 13.7 11.0
40 40 46.0 46.0 46.0 46.0 35.7 28.0 24.1 21.0 16.5 13.1
50 40 46.0 46.0 46.0 46.0 39.0 30.2 25.3 21.9 17.1 13.7
25 50 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5
40 50 83.8 83.8 83.8 83.8 78.6 68.0 59.7 53.0 43.9 37.2
50 50 111.3 111.3 111.3 11.3 96.9 81.1 69.8 61.3 48.8 40.8
50 65 162.5 162.5 162.5 162.5 162.5 150.9 136.6 124.7 107.6 94.8
Pressure Range 270 to 339 kPa 40 60 80 100 150 200 250 300 400 500
20 15 0.9 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.5 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2
20 20 2.9 2.9 2.6 2.1 1.7 1.4 1.1 0.9 0.8 0.6
20 25 9.8 9.8 9.8 7.9 5.5 4.1 3.2 2.7 2.3 1.8
25 25 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.8 6.4 4.6 3.5 2.9 2.3 2.0
20 32 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.8 9.8 8.2 6.4 5.0
25 32 24.4 24.4 24.4 24.4 19.8 15.8 12.8 10.7 7.9 6.1
40 32 24.4 24.4 24.4 24.4 22.9 18.0 14.6 11.9 8.5 6.4
25 40 36.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 23.8 19.8 16.8
40 40 46.0 46.0 46.0 46.0 46.0 39.6 33.2 28.3 22.9 19.2
50 40 46.0 46.0 46.0 46.0 46.0 42.4 35.1 29.9 23.5 19.5
25 50 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5 26.5
40 50 83.8 83.8 83.8 83.8 83.8 83.8 80.5 72.5 60.4 51.5
50 50 111.3 111.3 111.3 111.3 111.3 106.4 92.7 82.3 67.1 56.4
50 65 162.5 162.5 162.5 162.5 162.5 162.5 162.5 160.9 139.0 122.8
 Q u i z    1 2 5

QUIZ
1. Approved water hammer arrestors are required _______________.
a. where the water pressure in the distribution system exceeds
550 kPa
b. on supply branches serving single-handle faucets
c. where quick-closing valves are installed, such as automatic
clothes washers and dishwashers

2. An accessible full-open valve is not required on the water distribu-

tion supply pipe to a structure where each dwelling unit within the
structure is equipped with its own individual shutoff valve.
a. True
b. False

3. The method for sizing the water supply system is left to the
designer of the system to determine. However, the method used
must conform to accepted engineering practice, which includes the
two sizing methods provided in Appendix E of SBC 701.
a. True
b. False
1 2 6    C h a p t e r 8 W a t e r P i p i n g
CHAPTER
Backflow Protection
9

W
here potable water is distributed to various fixtures within
a building or structure, it is imperative that its potability be
protected from contamination from improper connections
or distribution. Without proper backflow protection, disease and other
pollution and contamination will be transmitted to occupants and no
one will be safe. This chapter covers identification of nonpotable water,
backflow assemblies and devices, and protection of potable water out-
lets.

127
1 2 8    C h a p t e r 9 B a c k f l o w P r o t e c t i o n

IDENTIFICATION OF NONPOTABLE WATER

Code [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.10]
Essentials Standardized identification and labeling of nonpotable water lines
Identification of nonpo- and outlets is an effective means for protecting the public. SBC 701,
table water components Section 608.10.1 requires nonpotable water outlets to be clearly
includes: identified with lettering explaining what the nonpotable water is
• Pipe and tubing to be used for and specifically stating, “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WA-
purple in color TER—DO NOT DRINK.” It also requires a pictograph that makes the
• Labeling of contents cautionary message more likely to be understood by those who read
• Pictograph indicating or speak a foreign language (Figure 9-1).
“DO NOT DRINK” Nonpotable piping must also be identified. SBC 701, Section
• The color purple and 608.10.2 outlines the labeling and marking requirements, including
the pictograph are the coloring, lettering and spacing of the lettering. All nonpotable
readily identified piping is to be identified with the color purple, this too making it
regardless of language more likely to be understood by those who read or speak a foreign
barriers l language. [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.10]

You Should
Know
Definitions for consider-
ation (see Glossary):
• Potable water
• Nonpotable water
Nonpotable water is utilized for .
• Pollution CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER. DO NOT DRINK
• Contamination
• Backflow FIGURE 9-1 “DO NOT DRINK”
pictograph
• Backflow connection
• Cross connection l

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 603, 608]
Protection of the potable water starts with protecting the incom-
ing water service from coming in contact with pollutants or con-
taminants. Therefore, the water service needs to be separated from
sources of contamination, such as sewer lines and septic systems.
The water service is allowed to be in the same ditch with the building
sewer, provided that the building sewer material is approved for use
underground inside of a structure per SBC 701, Table 702.2. Other-
wise, separation is required as outlined in SBC 701, Section 603.2
(Figure 9-2). The code mandates that water lines shall not be located
in, under or above septic tanks and drain fields, but always check
with local health codes regarding separation requirements that may
apply (Figure 9-3).
 G e n e r a l R e q u i r e m e n t s    1 2 9

Building
Sewer
Water
Service
Building Water
Sewer Service Code
Essentials
SBC 701, Table 608.17.1
addresses minimum sepa-
300 mm ration distance from areas
or uses to potable ground
1500 mm water sources (wells):
• 8 meters from a septic
tank
• 15 meters from drain
These dimensions apply where the building sewer material is not approved
for use underground inside of a structure as shown in SBC 701, Table 702.2.
fields
• 30 meters from a
Water Water pasture or barnyard
Service Service
Pipe sleeve of material approved for water service • 8 meters from a farm
silo
1500 mm 1500 mm
Building Sewer
In many jurisdictions the
installation and location
FIGURE 9-2 Water-sewer separation of potable water wells are
regulated by local health
codes that may be more
restrictive. SBC 701, Section
102.10 states that the pro-
visions of the code are not
deemed to nullify any pro-
visions of any law. l

FIGURE 9-3 Septic tank

Fixture fittings, commonly referred to as faucets, are required to

conform to ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1. Portions of this ASME/
CSA standard apply to devices and configurations within the fixture
fitting that serve to protect against backflow. For instance, a kitchen
sink faucet with a hand-held spray can easily be submerged below the
flood level rim of the sink, but the attachment will include a diverter
that closes automatically to prevent backflow. The key is to make
1 3 0    C h a p t e r 9 B a c k f l o w P r o t e c t i o n

sure that fixture fittings installed conform to the standard and are
You Should installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instruc-
Know tions (Figures 9-4 and 9-5).
Fixture fittings and fau-
Never take piping material that has been used for nonpotable
cets are required to con-
purposes and discarded, such as old HVAC lines. It may look fine on
form to ASME A112.18.1/
the outside, but the inside has been contaminated and rendered unfit
CSA B125.1, including
for use in potable water systems. [Ref. SBC 701 - 603.2, 603.2.1,
faucets that have a spray
608.2, 608.11]
attachment, such as a
kitchen sink or a bath fill
valve with a hand-held
BACKFLOW ASSEMBLIES, DEVICES AND
shower wand, which METHODS
may have a diverter-type
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.1, 608.16]
mechanism to prevent The ultimate protection against backflow is to not have a connection
backflow of the sink or between the potable water system and any source of contamination,
bathtub contents should and the best method for accomplishing that is to provide an air gap,
the spray attachment be which is a vertical separation between the outlet discharge from the
submerged below the potable system to, among others, the flood level rim of a fixture,
flood level rim of the reservoir, or tank (Figure 9-6). The physical air gap is basically two
fixture. Since this back-
flow protection device
will have been tested
in order to comply with
the product standard,
no additional backflow
protection is required. l

You Should
Know
FIGURE 9-4 Faucet with spray attachment
Definitions for consider-
ation (see Glossary):
• Backsiphonage
• Backpressure, low
head
• Air gap (water
distribution system)
• Effective opening
• Backflow preventer l

FIGURE 9-5 Bathtub fill valve with hand-held shower

 B a c k f l o w A s s e m b l i e s , D e v i c e s a n d M e t h o d s    1 3 1

Air Gap

Flood Level Rim

Effective Opening

Water Storage Tank

FIGURE 9-6 Air gap—water distribution

TABLE 9-1 Minimum required air gaps

MINIMUM AIR GAP

FIXTURE Away from a walla Close to a wall
(mm) (mm)
Lavatories and other fixtures with effective openings not
25 38
greater than 12 mm in diameter

Sinks, laundry trays, gooseneck back faucets and other

fixtures with effective openings not greater than 20 mm 38 65
in diameter

Over-rim bath fillers and other fixtures with effective

50 75
openings not greater than 25 mm in diameter

Drinking water fountains, single orfice not greater than 12

mm in diameter or multiple orifices with a total area of 25 38
100 mm2 (area of circle 12 mm in diameter)

Three times
Two times the
the diameter
Effective openings greater than 25 mm diameter of the
of the effective
effective opening
opening

a. Applicable where walls or obstructions are spaced from the nearest inside edge of the spout
opening a distance greater than three times the diameter of the effective opening for a single
wall, or a distance greater than four times the diameter of the effective opening for two
intersecting walls.
Note: The minimum required air gap is increased where the effective opening is adjacent to one or
more walls as specified in SBC 701, Table 608.16.1.

times the diameter of the effective opening, but in no case less than
25 mm (Table 9-1). Some fixtures, appliances and products may have
the air gap built-in with an air gap complying with ASME A112.1.2 or
an air gap fitting complying with ASME A112.1.3. Where the product
is listed as complying with either of these standards, it is considered
to be code compliant.
Where it is necessary to connect appliances, fixtures, appurte-
nances and other systems, backflow protection must be provided by
means of appropriate backflow assemblies, devices or methods. The
different types of backflow preventers are listed in SBC 701, Table
608.1, along with the degree of hazard that they are equipped to
handle. The applicable product standard for each is also identified in
the table (Table 9-2). According to the table footnotes, connection to
1 3 2    C h a p t e r 9 B a c k f l o w P r o t e c t i o n

TABLE 9-2 Application of backflow preventers

DEVICE DEGREE OF APPLICATIONb APPLICABLE
HAZARDa STANDARDS
Backflow prevention assemblies:
Double check backflow prevention
Backpressure or backsiphonage ASSE 1015, AWWA C510,
assembly and double check fire Low hazard
Sizes 10 mm – 400 mm CSA B64.5, CSA B64.5.1
protection backflow prevention assembly
Double check detector fire protection Backpressure or backsiphonage
Low hazard ASSE 1048
backflow prevention assemblies Sizes 50 mm – 400 mm
Backsiphonage only
Pressure vacuum breaker assembly High or low hazard ASSE 1020, CSA B64.1.2
Sizes 13 – 25 mm
Reduced pressure principle backflow
prevention assembly and reduced Backpressure or backsiphonage ASSE 1013, AWWA C511,
High or low hazard
pressure principle fire protection Sizes 10 mm – 400 mm CSA B64.4, CSA B64.4.1
backflow assembly
Reduced pressure detector fire protection Backsiphonage or backpressure
High or low hazard ASSE 1047
backflow prevention assemblies (Fire sprinkler systems)
Backsiphonage only
Spill-resistant vacuum breaker assembly High or low hazard ASSE 1056
Sizes 6 mm – 50 mm
Backflow preventer plumbing devices:
Antisiphon-type fill valves for gravity
High hazard Backsiphonage only ASSE 1002, CSA B125.3
water closet flush tanks
Backflow preventer for carbonated Backpressure or backsiphonage
Low hazard ASSE 1022
beverage machines Sizes 6 mm – 10 mm
Backflow preventer with intermediate Backpressure or backsiphonage
Low hazard ASSE 1012, CSA B64.3
atmospheric vents Sizes 6 mm – 20 mm
Backpressure or backsiphonage
Dual-check-valve-type backflow preventer Low hazard ASSE 1024, CSA B64.6
Sizes 6 mm – 25 mm
Low head backpressure, rated
working pressure, backpressure ASME A112.21.3, ASSE
Hose connection backflow preventer High or low hazard
or backsiphonage 1052, CSA B64.2.1.1
Sizes 13 mm – 25 mm
Low head backpressure or ASME A112.21.3, ASSE
Hose connection vacuum breaker High or low hazard backsiphonage 1011, CSA B64.2, CSA
Sizes 13 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm B64.2.1
Low head backpressure and
Laboratory faucet backflow preventer High or low hazard ASSE 1035, CSA B64.7
backsiphonage
Pipe-applied atmospheric-type vacuum Backsiphonage only
High or low hazard ASSE 1001, CSA B64.1.1
breaker Sizes 6 mm – 100 mm
Low head backpressure or
Vacuum breaker wall hydrants, ASME A112.21.3, ASSE
High or low hazard backsiphonage
frost-resistant, automatic-draining type 1019, CSA B64.2.2
Sizes 20 mm – 25 mm
Other means or methods
Air gap High or low hazard Backsiphonage or backpressure ASME A112.1.2
Air gap fittings for use with plumbing
High or low hazard Backsiphonage or backpressure ASME A112.1.3
fixtures, appliances and appurtenances
Barometric loop High or low hazard Backsiphonage only (See Section 608.13.4)

a. Low hazard—See Pollution (Section 202), High hazard—See Contamination (Section 202).
b. See Backpressure, low head (Section 202).
 P r o t e c t i o n o f P o t a b l e W a t e r O u t l e t s    1 3 3

something that contains what would be defined as “contamination”

is deemed a high hazard, whereas substances defined as “pollution” You Should
are deemed a low hazard. This leads you to the applicable backflow Know
preventer required for the backflow protection. Additionally, the Most public water util-
third column, “Application,” in the table identifies whether the ity purveyors have cross
backflow preventer can be used for protection from backpressure or connection control
backsiphonage. requirements that apply
Whatever backflow preventer is used, it is imperative that it be to the protection of the
installed in accordance with the code and the manufacturer’s instal- public water system.
lation instructions. [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.1, 608.16] Therefore, it is important
for the code official and

PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER the public water utility

agency to review local
OUTLETS regulations and proce-
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.1] dures in a cooperative
There are numerous types of fixtures, appliances, equipment, sys- manner for the benefit of
tems and uses that require some level of backflow protection. In this the public they serve. l
section we will review a few of the more common connections that
require backflow protection.
Hose connections
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.17.4.1, 608.17.4.2]
Outlets with a hose connection, such as hose bibbs and wall hydrants
(Figure 9-7), must be protected by means of an atmospheric-type or
pressure-type vacuum breaker. Most wall hydrants in today’s market
include a permanently attached hose connection vacuum breaker
(Figures 9-8 and 9-9). This requirement does not apply to water
heater and boiler drain valves or to the water supply connections
serving a clothes washer. [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.17.4.1]

FIGURE 9-7 Hose

FIGURE 9-8 Hose connection protection

FIGURE 9-9 Hose bibb

1 3 4    C h a p t e r 9 B a c k f l o w P r o t e c t i o n

Carbonated beverage dispensers

[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.1]
A backflow preventer conforming to ASSE 1022 is required
for connections serving a carbonated beverage dispenser
(Figure 9-10). Since each dispenser requires the backflow
preventer, the code does not allow a single backflow pre-
venter to serve more than one dispenser (Figure 9-11).
FIGURE 9-10 Carbonated beverage dispenser The code is very specific in stating that the “portion
Cold water supply
of the backflow preventer device
�
downstream of the second check
valve of the device and the pip-
ing downstream therefrom shall
not be affected by carbon dioxide
gas.” [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.1]
V
ASSE 1022
device

Noncarbonated Carbonated Carbonated

drink dispenser drink dispenser drink dispenser

PLAN VIEW

FIGURE 9-11 Beverage dispenser protection

Coffee machines [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.10]

Noncarbonated beverage dispensers and cof-
fee machines (Figure 9-12) require backflow
protection by means of an air gap, or a backflow
preventer conforming to ASSE 1022 (Figure 9-11).
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.10]

FIGURE 9-12 Coffee maker

Boilers [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.2]
There are two things to consider regarding backflow
protection for a boiler (Figure 9-13). First, if the
boiler system does not include the introduction of
conditioning chemicals (low hazard), the protection
can be by means of a backflow preventer with an
intermediate atmospheric vent that complies with
either ASSE 1012 or CSA B64.3. Where chemicals are
introduced (high hazard), the protection must be by
means of an air gap or a reduced pressure principle
backflow preventer complying with ASSE 1013, CSA
FIGURE 9-13 Boilers B64.4 or AWWA C511. [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.2]
 P r o t e c t i o n o f P o t a b l e W a t e r O u t l e t s    1 3 5

Heat exchangers
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.3]
As with a boiler, if the heat exchanger utilizes
an essentially toxic transfer fluid, it is deemed
a high hazard. In this case, the heat exchange
must be a double-wall type where the interme-
diate area is open to the atmosphere, thus pro-
viding an air gap (Figure 9-14). If the transfer
fluid is essentially nontoxic (having a Gosselin
Rating of 1) a single-wall type heat exchanger
can be used and no further protection is re-
quired. [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.3]

FIGURE 9-14 Double-wall heat exchanger

Fire sprinklers
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.4]
The first thing to determine is whether the
fire sprinkler system (Figure 9-15) contains
chemicals, such as some type of antifreeze, or
if it is connected to a nonpotable secondary
water supply. If this is the case, and the system
is under continuous pressure, a reduced pres-
sure principle backflow prevention assembly or
reduced pressure principle fire protection back-
flow prevention assembly is required due to the
system being classified as a high hazard. If not
under continuous pressure, an air gap or an at-
mospheric vacuum breaker conforming to ASSE
FIGURE 9-15 Fire sprinklers
1001 or CSA B64.1.1 may be used.
For systems that do not contain any chemi-
cals, protection can be by means of a double
check backflow prevention assembly, a double check fire protection
backflow prevention assembly or a reduced pressure principle fire
protection backflow prevention assembly.
Flow-through fire sprinkler systems are becoming more com-
mon, especially in single-family construction, where the fire sprin-
kler system is interconnected with the potable water distribution
system. For these systems, no protection is required, provided
that the system is not provided with a fire department connection.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.4, 608.18.4.1]
1 3 6    C h a p t e r 9 B a c k f l o w P r o t e c t i o n

Lawn irrigation
systems [Ref. SBC 701 -
608.18.5, 608.18.6]
An atmospheric vacuum breaker,
a pressure vacuum breaker as-
sembly or a reduced pressure
principle backflow prevention
assembly may be used for protec-
tion. For systems where chemi-
cals are introduced, the method
of protection shall be by means
FIGURE 9-16 Lawn irrigation of a reduced pressure principle
backflow prevention assembly.
[Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.5,
608.18.6]
Chemical dispensers [Ref. SBC 701 - 608.18.7]
You Should The code lists a number of approved methods and devices for back-
Know flow protection since there are many different types of chemical
Residential lawn irriga- dispensing equipment on the market (Figure 9-17). Rather than try
tion systems are often to cover every possible type, let’s focus on one of the most common,
purchased and installed the chemical (soap)
on existing properties, dispensers often used
without the benefit of in commercial kitch-
review or inspection by ens and for janitorial
the local jurisdiction. uses at service (mop)
And, such occurrences sinks.
are not limited to just One of the most
residential lawn irrigation common means of
systems. This highlights protection is by an
the importance of pro- air gap. Recall that
viding instructive and an air gap may be in
educational information the form of an air gap
for the public, perhaps complying with ASME FIGURE 9-17 Soap dispenser
through website infor- A112.1.2 or an air gap
mation and department fitting complying with ASME A112.1.3, and the code states that
handouts. Education and products listed to either of those standards are considered code com-
awareness, along with pliant. A chemical dispenser that complies with ASSE 1055 is also
permitting and inspec- code compliant for the required backflow protection. [Ref. SBC 701
tion, are necessary and - 608.18.7, Chapter 15]
valuable in maintaining
an effective cross con-
nection control program.
l
 Q u i z    1 3 7

REQUIRED TESTING AND INSPECTION OF

BACKFLOW PREVENTERS
[Ref. SBC 701 - 312.10]
Testing is required for backflow preventers having test cocks pro-
vided for connecting test equipment. For instance, reduced pressure
principle backflow prevention assemblies and double check valve as-
semblies are designed to allow connection to test equipment. Testing
procedures are to be in accordance with the standards identified in
SBC 701, Section 312.10.2, and it is important to follow the manu-
facturer’s instructions in this regard. Testing is also required for hose
connection backflow preventers.
The testing is required at the time of installation, when repairs
are made, when the assembly is relocated and at least annu-
ally. Additionally, backflow prevention assemblies and air gaps are
required to be inspected annually. [Ref. SBC 701 - 312.10]

QUIZ
1. Backflow protection is not required for connecting
_________________________ or _________________________
to the potable water distribution system of a structure.
a. carbonated beverage dispensers / double-wall heat
exchangers
b. boilers / automatic lawn irrigation systems
c. noncarbonated beverage dispensers / boilers
d. double-wall heat exchangers / chemical (soap) dispensers
conforming to ASSE 1055

2. Backflow assemblies are required to be tested

__________________________.
a. when repairs are made to the assembly
b. when the assembly is relocated
c. at least annually
d. at the time of installation
e. All of the above
f. a and b only

3. Manufactured fixture fittings (faucets) that are equipped with a

hand-held spray attachment do not require additional backflow
protection, provided they are listed as conforming to ASME
A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 and are installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
a. True
b. False
1 3 8    C h a p t e r 9 B a c k f l o w P r o t e c t i o n
CHAPTER
Water Reuse
10

W
ith the ever-increasing need to minimize water consumption,
alternative water sources are becoming more common. This
includes employing nonpotable water for uses that do not
involve human consumption, bathing or culinary purposes, or require it
to be treated to meet potable water standards. This chapter addresses top-
ics such as water quality and treatment, protection of water reuse systems
and water reuse system abandonment.

139
1 4 0    C h a p t e r 1 0 W a t e r R e u s e

You Should
GENERAL PROVISIONS
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 13]
Know The code addresses three types of nonpotable water systems: on-site
Definitions for consider- nonpotable water reuse systems; nonpotable rainwater collection and
ation (see Glossary): distribution systems; and reclaimed water systems. Let us consider
• Alternate on-site on-site nonpotable water reuse systems and nonpotable rainwater
nonpotable water collection and distribution systems.
• On-site nonpotable On-site nonpotable water reuse systems collect waste water from
water reuse system bathing and laundry drainage, often referred to as light graywater
• Rainwater (Figure 10-1). Discharge from water closets, kitchen sinks, dishwash-
• Reclaimed water l ers, water softeners or reverse osmosis units is prohibited. Always
check with the local authority to determine if such systems are
allowed or if there are additional regulations that apply to graywater
reuse, such as local health codes.

Shower
Water Closet
Lavatory

Graywater from lavatory and shower

To sewer

Graywater storage
and treatment Nonpotable water feed to water closet

FIGURE 10-1 Graywater reuse

Nonpotable rainwater collection and distribution

systems are becoming more common with water conser-
vation measures (Figure 10-2). Again, it is important to
verify what local regulations may apply to these systems.
Water Figure 10-3 identifies some of the components in a non-
Closet
potable rainwater collection and distribution system that
are addressed in the SBC 701.

Nonpotable rainwater
feed to water closet

Rainwater storage tank

FIGURE 10-2 Rainwater reuse

 G e n e r a l P r o v i s i o n s    1 4 1

Collection
Surface
Debris
(Roof)
Excluder

Gutter

Vent System
Overflow

Collection
Pipe

Roof
Washer/First- Storage
Flush Tank
Diverter

FIGURE 10-3 Rainwater system components

It is important that current and potential future owners main-

tain these systems for continued operation. So, the code requires an
operation and maintenance manual for the system that must include
detailed operation and maintenance procedures, schematics and a
listing of all systems and components, including the manufacturer
and model numbers. [Ref. SBC 701 - 1301.1, 1302.2, 1302.13,
Code
1303.16] Essentials
Regarding graywater reuse:
Water quality and treatment • Graywater cannot be
[Ref. SBC 701 - 1301, 1302] stored untreated in
Typically, nonpotable rainwater is not required to be treated beyond excess of 24 hours.
filtration, protection from storage in direct sunlight and circulation • When used for flushing
to prevent stagnation, and reclaimed water has already been treated water closets and
before being returned to the site. Yet, when it comes to other alter- urinals, graywater must
nate on-site nonpotable water, such as graywater, it is extremely be treated by means of
important to make sure the nonpotable water is treated to the level an on-site treatment
intended for the application. The code does provide minimum re- system that complies
quirements for residual disinfection and filtering in SBC 701, Section with NSF 350.
1301.2. However, local laws, ordinances and regulations will likely • Untreated graywater may
apply, perhaps through local health codes and public health authori- be discharged to a
ties. The local jurisdiction may require initial testing or ongoing test- subsurface landscape
ing and monitoring, perhaps by an approved testing agency. Further, irrigation system in
even though these systems are addressed in the code, they may not accordance with SBC
be approved for use locally. 701, Chapter 14.
• Always check with local
rules and regulations
that may apply. l
1 4 2    C h a p t e r 1 0 W a t e r R e u s e

Graywater used for flushing water closets and urinals shall be

treated by means of an on-site treatment system that complies with
NSF 350. Graywater shall not be stored for more than 24 hours.
While the code does not address collecting rainwater for the
purpose of treating it to potable water standards, such systems do
exist and come under the authority of local jurisdictions. The treat-
ment must be in accordance with local requirements. In the absence
of such requirements, and where acceptable to the local jurisdiction,
the International Code Council in conjunction with the Canadian
Standards Association has developed the CSA B805-18/ICC 805-
2018, Rainwater Harvesting Systems, an ANSI standard, which will
no doubt prove useful to jurisdictions as they meet the challenges of
water conservation and the safe use of collected rainwater and storm
water. [Ref. SBC 701 - 1301.1, 1301.2, 1302.5, 1302.6]
Protection of potable water
You Should [Ref. SBC 701 - 1301.3, 1301.5]
Know
Basically, the signage for nonpotable water outlets and labeling of
The International Code nonpotable water distribution systems shall be as required in SBC
Council® (ICC®) and 701, Chapter 6. For the convenience of the user, these requirements
the Canadian Standards are included again in SBC 701, Chapter 13. Storage tanks also need
Association (CSA) to be identified as nonpotable. Necessary connections for refill or
formed a joint stan- backup purposes, such as a bypass connection from the potable wa-
dards committee and ter system to a nonpotable rainwater system as makeup water, must
have developed CSA be protected in accordance with SBC 701, Section 608. A physical air
B805-18/ICC 805-2018, gap is the best protection, and if a physical connection is necessary,
Rainwater Harvesting a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly would be
Systems, an ANSI stan- the appropriate method of protection.
dard for rainwater and Separation of water reuse piping and potable water piping under-
storm water catchment, ground shall also meet the provisions as stated in SBC 701, Chapter
storage, treatment and 6. These are restated in SBC 701, Section 1301.11. [Ref. SBC 701 -
distribution. This stan- 1301.3, 1301.5, 1301.9.9, 1301.11]
dard includes provisions
necessary for treating
rainwater for potable
use. l
 G e n e r a l P r o v i s i o n s    1 4 3

Protection of the water

reuse system
[Ref. SBC 701 - 1301.7,
1307.8, 1307.9]
Piping and components must be in-
stalled in accordance with the code as
would be required for water distribu-
tion and for DWV systems, and in
accordance with the manufacturer’s
installation instructions. Foundation
and support of both above- and be-
low-ground storage tanks must be
installed in accordance with SBC 201.
Where storage tanks are located above FIGURE 10-4 Graywater storage tank

ground (Figures 10-5 and 10-6), they

must be of material that is UV-resis-
tant or otherwise protected by sun
barriers or located away from direct
exposure to sunlight.
Protection from freezing condi-
tions and screening of necessary open-
ings to prevent the entrance of insects
and vermin is also required. [Ref. SBC
701 - 1301.7, 1301.8, 1301.9.1,
1301.9.3, 1301.9.4]
System abandonment
[Ref. SBC 701 - 1301.10]
When a system is no longer in use and
is not intended to be used again, the FIGURE 10-5 Rainwater storage tank
storage tank must be secured from
accidental access by sealing or locking
all inlets, or it can be filled with sand or an equivalent material. The
latter option may be best in protecting from any possible collapse of
the tank in the ground.
Where fixtures and outlets that were supplied with nonpotable
water are now intended to be supplied with potable water, the distri-
bution piping must be replaced with new piping approved for potable
use in accordance with SBC 701, Section 608.12. [Ref. SBC 701 -
608.12, 1301.10]
1 4 4  
4    C h a p t e r 1 0 W a t e r R e u s e

QUIZ
1. On-site water reuse systems may collect wastewater from which
of the following?
a. bathtubs, showers and lavatories
b. water closets
c. kitchen sinks
d. laundry drainage
e. a, c and d only
f. a and d only

2. The code requires water reuse systems to be provided with an

operation and maintenance manual that includes detailed opera-
tion and maintenance procedures, schematics, and a listing of all
systems and components, including the manufacturer and model
numbers.
a. True
b. False

3. Graywater used for flushing water closets and urinals shall be

treated by _________________________, and collected graywa-
ter _________________________.
a. sand filtration / shall not be stored for more than 24 hours
b. an on-site treatment system that complies with NSF 350 /
shall not be stored for more than 24 hours
c. removable and replaceable filters / shall not be stored for
more than 48 hours
d. None of the above
Quiz
Answers
Chapter 2 Chapter 9
1. True 1. d
2. b 2. e
3. a 3. True

Chapter 3 Chapter 10
1. c 1. f
2. True 2. True
3. c 3. b

Chapter 4
1. f
2. a
3. False

Chapter 5
1. c
2. a
3. True

Chapter 6
1. False
2. c
3. f

Chapter 7
1. a
2. True
3. True

Chapter 8
1. c
2. False
3. True

145
146  Q u i z A n s w e r s
Glossary

Glossary
A B
accepted engineering practice – That which con- backflow – Pressure created by any means in the water
forms to accepted principles, tests or standards of nation- distribution system, which by being in excess of the pres-
ally recognized technical or scientific authorities. sure in the water supply mains causes a potential back-
flow condition.
access (to) – That which enables a fixture, appliance
or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means backpressure, low head – A pressure less than or
that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, equal to 30 kPa or the pressure exerted by a 3000 mm
door or similar obstruction (see “ready access”). column of water.
air break (drainage system) – A piping arrange- backsiphonage – The backflow of potentially con-
ment in which a drain from a fixture, appliance or device taminated water into the potable water system as a
discharges indirectly into another fixture, receptacle or result of the pressure in the potable water system
interceptor at a point below the flood level rim and above falling below atmospheric pressure of the plumbing
the trap seal. fixtures, pools, tanks or vats connected to the potable
water distribution piping.
air gap (drainage system) – The unobstructed verti-
cal distance through the free atmosphere between the backflow connection – Any arrangement whereby
outlet of the waste pipe and the flood level rim of the backflow is possible.
receptacle into which the waste pipe is discharging.
backflow preventer – A backflow prevention assem-
air gap (water distribution system) – The unob- bly, a backflow prevention device or other means or
structed vertical distance through the free atmosphere method to prevent backflow into the potable water sup-
between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet sup- ply.
plying water to a tank, plumbing fixture or other device
bathroom group – A group of fixtures consisting of
and the flood level rim of the receptacle.
a water closet, lavatory, bathtub or shower, including or
alternate on-site nonpotable water – Non- excluding a bidet, an emergency floor drain or both. Such
potable water from other than public utilities, on-site sur- fixtures are located together on the same floor level.
face sources and subsurface natural freshwater sources.
branch interval – A vertical measurement of distance,
Examples of such water are graywater, on-site reclaimed
2400 mm or more in developed length, between the
water, collected rainwater, captured condensate and
connections of horizontal branches to a drainage stack.
rejected water from reverse osmosis systems.
Measurements are taken down the stack from the highest
alternative engineered design – A plumbing sys- horizontal branch connection.
tem that performs in accordance with the intent of
branch vent – A vent connecting one or more indi-
Chapters 3 through 12 and provides an equivalent level
vidual vents with a vent stack or stack vent.
of performance for the protection of public health, safety
and welfare. The system design is not specifically regu- building drain – That part of the lowest piping of a
lated by Chapters 3 through 12. drainage system that receives the discharge from soil,
waste and other drainage pipes inside and that extends
approved – Acceptable to the code official or other
750 mm in developed length of pipe beyond the exterior
authority having jurisdiction.
walls of the building and conveys the drainage to the
approved agency – An established and recognized building sewer.
agency that is regularly engaged in conducting tests or
building subdrain – That portion of a drainage system
furnishing inspection services, where such agency has
that does not drain by gravity into the building sewer.
been approved by the code official.

147
1 4 8    G l o s s a r y

C E
circuit vent – A vent that connects to a horizontal effective opening – The minimum cross-sectional
drainage branch and vents two traps to a maximum of area at the point of water supply discharge, measured
eight traps or trapped fixtures connected into a battery. or expressed in terms of the diameter of a circle or, if
the opening is not circular, the diameter of a circle of
code – These regulations, subsequent amendments
equivalent cross-sectional area. For faucets and similar
thereto, or any emergency rule or regulation that the
fittings, the effective opening shall be measured at the
administrative authority having jurisdiction has lawfully
smallest orifice in the fitting body or in the supply piping
adopted.
to the fitting.
code official – The officer or other designated author-
ity charged with the administration and enforcement of F
this code, or a duly authorized representative.
combination waste and vent system – A specially fixture drain – The drain from the trap of a fixture to
a junction with any other drain pipe.
designed system of waste piping embodying the horizon-
tal wet venting of one or more sinks, lavatories, drinking fixture supply – The water supply pipe connecting
fountains or floor drains by means of a common waste a fixture to a branch water supply pipe or directly to a
and vent pipe adequately sized to provide free movement main water supply pipe.
of air above the flow line of the drain.
flood level rim – The edge of the receptacle from
common vent – A vent connecting at the junction of which water overflows.
two fixture drains or to a fixture branch and serving as a
vent for both fixtures. G
conductor – A pipe inside the building that conveys
storm water from the roof to a storm or combined build- graywater – Waste discharged from lavatories, bath-
ing drain. tubs, showers, clothes washers and laundry trays.

construction document – All of the written, graphic grease interceptor – Fats, oils and greases (FOG)
and pictorial documents prepared or assembled for disposal system. A plumbing appurtenance that reduces
describing the design, location and physical characteris- nonpetroleum fats, oils and greases in effluent by sepa-
tics of the elements of the project necessary for obtain- ration or mass and volume reduction.
ing a building permit. The construction drawings shall be gravity – Plumbing appurtenances of not less than
drawn to an appropriate scale. 1900 L capacity that are installed in the sanitary
contamination – An impairment of the quality of the drainage system to intercept free-floating fats, oils
potable water that creates an actual hazard to the public and grease from waste water discharge. Separation is
health through poisoning or the spread of disease by accomplished by gravity during a retention time of not
sewage, industrial fluids or waste. less than 30 minutes.

cross connection – Any physical connection or hydromechanical – Plumbing appurtenances that

arrangement between two otherwise separate piping are installed in the sanitary drainage system to inter-
systems, one containing potable water and the other cept free floating fats, oils and grease from waste water
containing water of unknown safety, steam, gas or discharge. Continuous separation is accomplished by
chemicals whereby there exists the possibility for flow air entrainment, buoyancy and interior baffling
from one system to the other, with the direction of flow grease removal device, automatic (GRD) – A
depending on the pressure differential between the two plumbing appurtenance that is installed in the sanitary
systems (see “backflow”). drainage system to intercept free-floating fats, oils and
grease from waste water discharge. Such a device oper-
D ates on a time- or event-controlled basis and has the
ability to remove free-floating fats, oils and grease auto-
developed length – The length of a pipeline mea- matically without intervention from the user except for
sured along the centerline of the pipe and fittings. maintenance.
grease-laden waste – Effluent discharge that is pro-
duced from food processing, food preparation or other
sources where grease, fats and oils enter automatic dish-
water prerinse stations, sinks or other appurtenances.
 G l o s s a r y    1 4 9

H O
horizontal branch drain – A drainage branch pipe occupancy – The purpose for which a building or por-
extending laterally from a soil or waste stack or building tion thereof is utilized or occupied.
drain, with or without vertical sections or branches, that
on-site nonpotable water reuse system – A
receives the discharge from two or more fixture drains or
water system for the collection, treatment, storage,
branches and conducts the discharge to the soil or waste
distribution and reuse of nonpotable water generated
stack or to the building drain.
on site, including but not limited to a graywater system.
horizontal pipe – Any pipe or fitting that makes an This definition does not include a rainwater harvesting
angle of less than 45 degrees with a horizontal plane. system.
hot water – Water at a temperature greater than or
equal to 43°C. A waste pipe that does not connect direct- P
ly with the drainage system, but that discharges into the
drainage system through an air break or air gap into a pollution – An impairment of the quality of the
potable water to a degree that does not create a hazard
trap, fixture, receptor or interceptor.
to public health but that does adversely and unreason-
ably affect the aesthetic qualities of such potable water
I for domestic use.
individual vent – A pipe installed to vent a fixture potable water – Water free from impurities present
trap and that connects with the vent system above the in amounts sufficient to cause disease or harmful physi-
fixture served or terminates in the open air ological effects and conforming to the bacteriological
and chemical quality requirements of the Public Health
individual water supply – A water supply that serves
Service Drinking Water Standards or the regulations of
one or more families, and that is not an approved public
the public health authority having jurisdiction.
water supply.
private – In the classification of plumbing fixtures,
interceptor – A device designed and installed to
“private” applies to fixtures in residences and apart-
separate and retain for removal, by automatic or manual
ments, and to fixtures in nonpublic toilet rooms of
means, deleterious, hazardous or undesirable matter
hotels and motels and similar installations in buildings
from normal wastes, while permitting normal sewage or
where the plumbing fixtures are intended for utilization
wastes to discharge into the drainage system by gravity.
by a family or an individual.
Interceptors may also be referred to as “separators.”
public or public utilization – In the classifica-
L tion of plumbing fixtures, “public” applies to fixtures
in general toilet rooms of schools, gymnasiums, hotels,
leader – An exterior drainage pipe for conveying storm airports, bus and railroad stations, public buildings, pub-
water from roof or gutter drains to an approved means lic comfort stations, office buildings, stadiums, stores,
of disposal. restaurants and other installations where a number of
fixtures are installed so that their utilization is similarly
N unrestricted.
public water main – A water supply pipe for public
nonpotable water – Water not safe for drinking, utilization controlled by public authority.
personal or culinary utilization.
nuisance – Public nuisance as known in common law Q
or in equity jurisprudence; whatever is dangerous to
human life or detrimental to health; whatever struc- quick-closing valve – A valve or faucet that closes
ture or premises is not sufficiently ventilated, sewered, automatically when released manually or that is con-
drained, cleaned or lighted, with respect to its intended trolled by a mechanical means for fast-action closing.
occupancy; and whatever renders the air, or human food,
drink or water supply unwholesome.
1 5 0    G l o s s a r y

R T
rainwater – Water from natural precipitation. tempered water – Water having a temperature range
between 29°C and 43°C.
ready access – That which enables a fixture, appliance
or equipment to be directly reached without requiring third-party certification agency – An approved
the removal or movement of any panel, door or similar agency operating a product or material certification sys-
obstruction and without the use of a portable ladder, tem that incorporates initial product testing, assessment
step stool or similar device. and surveillance of a manufacturer’s quality control
system.
reclaimed water – Nonpotable water that has been
derived from the treatment of wastewater by a facility or third-party certified – Certification obtained by the
system licensed or permitted to produce water meeting manufacturer indicating that the function and perfor-
the jurisdiction’s water requirements for its intended mance characteristics of a product or material have been
uses. Also known as “recycled water.” determined by testing and ongoing surveillance by an
approved third-party certification agency. Assertion of
registered design professional – An individual
certification is in the form of identification in accordance
who is registered or licensed to practice professional
with the requirements of the third-party certification
architecture or engineering as defined by the statutory
agency.
requirements of the professional registration laws of the
jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed.
V
relief vent – A vent whose primary function is to
provide circulation of air between drainage and vent vent stack – A vertical vent pipe installed primarily for
systems. the purpose of providing circulation of air to and from
any part of the drainage system.
roof drain – A drain installed to receive water collect-
ing on the surface of a roof and to discharge such water vertical pipe – Any pipe or fitting that makes an angle
into a leader or a conductor. of 45 degrees or more with the horizontal.

S W
separator – See definition of “interceptor.” water heater – Any heating appliance or equipment
that heats potable water and supplies such water to the
stack – A general term for any vertical line of soil,
potable hot water distribution system.
waste, vent or inside conductor piping that extends
through at least one story with or without offsets. water main – A water supply pipe or system of pipes,
installed and maintained by a city, township, county,
stack vent – The extension of a soil or waste stack
public utility company or other public entity, on public
above the highest horizontal drain connected to the
property, in the street or in an approved dedicated ease-
stack.
ment of public or community use.
storm water – Natural precipitation, including snow-
melt, that has contacted a surface at or below grade. water pipe –

subsoil drain – A drain that collects subsurface water riser – A water supply pipe that extends one full story
or more to convey water to branches or to a group of
or seepage water and conveys such water to a place of
fixtures.
disposal.
water distribution pipe – A pipe within the struc-
ture or on the premises that conveys water from the
water service pipe, or from the meter when the meter
is at the structure, to the points of utilization.
water service pipe – The pipe from the water main
or other source of potable water supply, or from the
meter when the meter is at the public right of way, to
the water distribution system of the building served.
 G l o s s a r y    1 5 1

water supply system – The water service pipe, water

distribution pipes, and the necessary connecting pipes,
fittings, control valves and all appurtenances in or adja-
cent to the structure or premises.
water-hammer arrestor – A device utilized to absorb
the pressure surge (water hammer) that occurs when
water flow is suddenly stopped in a water supply system.

Y
yoke vent – A pipe connecting upward from a soil or
waste stack to a vent stack for the purpose of preventing
pressure changes in the stacks.
1 5 2    G l o s s a r y
Checklist

SANITARY CODE CHECKLIST – SBC 701

JOB SITE

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Public or private sewage disposal system has been approved for 701.2
connection.
Public or private water system available and approved for connection. 602.1
Permit and approved construction plans are available on site. 106.5.8

DRAINS

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Public or private sewage disposal system has been approved for 701.2
connection.
Sanitary and storm drain systems are independent to the point of 1109.1
connection with the proper sewer system outside of the structure.
Drain lines are sized properly. 710
Proper pipe and fitting materials are used. 702
Drainage pattern fittings are properly installed. 706
Horizontal drain lines properly sloped. 704.1
Branch connections to horizontal drains are a minimum 10 pipe diameters 704.3
downstream of the base of a stack.
Approved adapter fittings used for connection of different piping materials. 705.16
Required cleanouts are installed and accessible. 708
Piping in trenches properly bedded and backfilled with clean material. 306
Trenches parallel to footings are above a 45-degree bearing plane of the 307.5
footing.
Horizontal and vertical piping properly supported. 308
Pipe sleeves through foundation properly sized and sealed to prevent 305.3
moisture intrusion.
Traps protected from freezing. 305.4
Ejector sump sized correctly, properly vented, gas-tight sealed lid, check 712
valve and gate valve installed on the discharge line.
Backwater valve, where required, is installed correctly and accessible for 715
service.
Code compliant notching and boring of framing members. 307.2
Appendix C
Nail plate protection installed where required. 305.6

153
154  C h e c k l i s t s

DRAINS—continued

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

DWV system is properly tested for leaks. 701.6
Standpipes properly sized and installed. 802.3.3
Water closet flanges properly secured to the structure. 405.4.1
Wall-hung fixture carriers secured to the structure in accordance with 405.4
manufacturer’s instructions.
Drainage air gaps and air breaks properly installed where required. 802.2.1, 802.2.2
Indirect waste lines properly sized and installed. 802.2

VENTS

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Vents are sized properly. 906
Proper pipe and fitting materials are used. 702
Drainage pattern fittings are properly installed where required. 706
Approved adapter fittings used for connection of different piping materials. 706.16
Horizontal vent lines properly sloped where required. 905.2
Proper distances maintained between vent terminals and structure openings 903
or uses.
Horizontal and vertical piping properly supported. 308
Nail plate protection installed where required. 305.6
Maximum distance between the trap and its vent are maintained. 909.1
DWV system is properly tested for leaks. 901.5
Approved air admittance valves properly installed. 918
Common vents properly sized. 911
Island fixture vent installed correctly 916
Vertical and horizontal wet vents properly sized and installed. 912
Circuit vent systems properly sized and installed. 914
Horizontal offsets properly vented where required. 907
Relief vents properly installed where required. 908
Combination waste and vent systems properly sized and installed. 915
Waste stack vent systems properly sized and installed. 913
Single stack vent systems properly sized and installed. 917
 Sanitary Code Checklist – SBC 701   155

STORM DRAINAGE

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Sanitary and storm drain systems are independent to the point of 1109.1
connection with the proper sewer system outside of the structure.
Drain lines are sized properly. 1106
Proper pipe and fitting materials are used. 1101.6, 1102
Approved adapter fittings used for connection of different piping materials. 705.16
Piping in trenches properly bedded and backfilled with clean material. 306
Trenches parallel to footings are above a 45-degree bearing plane of the 307.5
footing.
Pipe sleeves through foundation properly sized and sealed to prevent 305.3
moisture intrusion.
Horizontal and vertical piping properly supported. 308
Horizontal drain lines properly sloped. 704.1
Code compliant notching and boring of framing members. 307.2, Appendix C
Nail plate protection installed where required. 305.6
Secondary roof drains provided where required and properly discharged. 1108
Storm drain system properly tested for leaks. 1101.4

WATER SERVICE

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Public or private water system available and approved for connection. 602.1, 602.3
Water service sized properly. 603.1
Proper pipe and fitting materials are used. 605.3
Piping in trenches properly bedded and backfilled with clean material. 306
Trenches parallel to footings are above a 45-degree bearing plane of the 307.5
footing.
Pipe sleeves through foundation properly sized and sealed to prevent 305.3
moisture intrusion.
Buried potable water lines are properly separated from drain lines, sewers 603.2, 603.2.1
and septic systems
Water service buried deep enough to protect from freezing. 305.4
Water service properly tested for leaks. 601.4
156  C h e c k l i s t s

WATER DISTRIBUTION

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Water lines are sized properly. 604
Proper pipe and fitting materials are used. 605
Approved adapter fittings used for connection of different piping materials. 605.24
Piping in trenches properly bedded and backfilled with clean material. 306
Trenches parallel to footings are above a 45-degree bearing plane of the 307.5
footing.
Buried potable water lines are properly separated from drain lines, sewers 603.2
and septic systems.
603.2.1
Pipe sleeves through foundation properly sized and sealed to prevent 305.3
moisture intrusion.
Horizontal and vertical piping properly supported. 308
Code compliant notching and boring of framing members. 307.2
Appendix C
Nail plate protection installed where required. 305.6
Piping adequately insulated and installed to protect from freezing. 305.4
Water hammer arrestors installed near quick-closing valves (such as near 604.9
automatic clothes washers and dishwashers).
Distribution manifolds properly installed and shutoff valves identified for 604.10
service.
Main shutoff valve installed correctly, and fixture and appliance shutoff 606
valves provided.
Pressure reducing valve properly installed when required. 604.8
Hose bibbs equipped with approved vacuum breakers or hose connection 608.17.4.2
backflow preventers.
Proper backflow prevention provided where required (such as beverage 608.17
dispensers, fire sprinklers systems, irrigation systems, boilers and chemical
dispensers).
Water distribution system properly tested for leaks. 601.4
Backflow preventers tested as required. 312.10
 Sanitary Code Checklist – SBC 701   157

BATHROOM FIXTURES

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Required clearance around fixtures maintained. 405.3.1
Shower compartment required dimensions are maintained. 417.4
Required egress opening to the shower compartment is maintained. 417.4.2
Hot-water on the left and cold-water on the right for 2-handle faucets. 607.4
Fixtures properly secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 303.2
Shower control valve is an approved balanced-pressure, temperature, or 424.3
combination balanced-pressure/thermostatic type, and properly adjusted
to required temperature limits.
Fixtures adequately sealed where in contact with floor and wall surfaces. 405.5
Temperature mixing valves properly installed where required and operating 408.3, 416.5, 424.5
at allowable temperature requirements.
Water closets for public or employee use are elongated type with open- 420.2
front seat.
Proper access provided for whirlpool pump. 421.5

KITCHEN FIXTURES

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Hot-water on the left and cold-water on the right for 2-handle faucets. 607.4
Fixtures properly secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 303.2
Fixtures adequately sealed where in contact with floor and wall surfaces. 405.5
Dishwasher drain properly connected and secured. 409.3
Water hammer arrestor properly installed on water feed to the dishwasher. 604.9

LAUNDRY FIXTURES

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Hot-water on the left and cold-water on the right for 2-handle faucets. 607.4
Fixtures properly secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 303.2
Fixtures adequately sealed where in contact with floor and wall surfaces. 405.5
Water hammer arrestors properly installed on both hot and cold-water feed 604.9
to the automatic clothes washer.
Standpipe properly sized and installed. 802.3.3
158  C h e c k l i s t s

OTHER FIXTURES

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Hot-water on the left and cold-water on the right for 2-handle faucets. 607.4
Fixtures properly secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. 303.2
Fixtures adequately sealed where in contact with floor and wall surfaces. 405.5
Water hammer arrestors installed near quick-closing valves. 604.9
Temperature mixing valves properly installed where required and operating 423.3
at allowable temperature requirements.
Approved automatic trap priming devices installed where required. 1002.4.1
Standpipes and receptors properly sized and installed. 802.3.3
Drains serving fixtures and equipment utilized for the storage, preparation 802.1.1
and handling of food are discharged through a drainage air gap.
Indirect waste lines properly sized and installed. 802.2
In other than residential dwelling units, grease laden wastes discharge 1003.3
through an approved, adequately sized grease interceptor.

WATER HEATERS

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Proper location and access provided for inspection and service. 501.4, 502.5
Drain pan installed where required. 504.7
Required seismic bracing properly installed. 502.4
Listed temperature/pressure relief valve installed and properly drained to 504.4, 504.5, 504.6
approved point of discharge.
Properly sized and installed provision to control thermal expansion where 607.3
required.
Vacuum relief valve properly installed when required. 504.2
Full-open valve installed on the cold-water feed line to the water heater. 606.1

SPECIAL SYSTEMS

YES NO N/A CHECKLIST ITEM SBC 701 Reference

Were nonflammable medical gas systems (if included as part of this project) 1201.1, 1202.1
reviewed by the department for compliance with SBC 801 and NFPA 99?
Were nonflammable oxygen systems (if included as part of this project) 1201.1, 1203.1
reviewed by the department for compliance with SBC 801, NFPA 51 and
NFPA 55?
Were the design, material and tests for the subsurface landscape irrigation Chapter 14
systems connected to nonpotable water from the on-site water reuse
system (if included as part of this project) reviewed and evaluated by the
department?
Annex

This annex chapter is intended to provide certain additional summary information related to this SBC
Guide for coverage of sections not specifically addressed in the body of the Guide. It is not intended to
cover subjects in detail, it is to serve only as supplementary information.

APPLICABILITY
[Ref. SBC 701 - 102]
One important subject that comes up in the application of the code is the interpretation of the code where
there might be conflicting provisions. In Section 102.1, SBC 701 requires that the most restrictive provi-
sion would apply if two specific provisions are in conflict. However, if a general provision and a specific
provision conflict, then the specific provision will control, even if the specific provision is less restrictive.
As an example, wet venting in SBC 701 is not allowed as a general rule; however, in certain settings and
under certain conditions, wet venting is allowed. In this case, the specific situation and conditions apply
and wet venting would be allowed.

DEFINITIONS: APPROVED
[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 2]
Chapter 2 provides the definitions for use with SBC 701. One such important definition is the definition
for the term “approved.” Approved is defined as “acceptable to the code official or other authority having
jurisdiction.” Accordingly, code officials can use their judgment in approving systems, designs and alterna-
tive materials and methods, but this authority cannot be applied arbitrarily. The code official’s judgment
must be based on certain findings, tests or experience and the judgment that whatever is being approved
is generally equivalent to what the code intended.

CONDENSATE DISPOSAL
[Ref. SBC 701 - 314]
Certain appliances produce condensation when operating, such as appliances with cooling coils and evapo-
rators. The condensation from operation of these appliances must be collected and discharged to an ap-
proved plumbing fixture or other approved disposal areas. Condensation from appliances, if not disposed
of properly, can create health issues or slippery surfaces that can create the danger of falling.

159
1 6 0    A n n e x

ALTERNATIVE ENGINEERED DESIGN

[Ref. SBC 701 - 316]
SBC 701, and indeed all the volumes of the Saudi Building Code, do not intend to limit the flexibility
of alternative designs and thereby limit innovation. SBC 701, Section 316 specifically addresses engi-
neered design so that plumbing systems that might not comply with certain prescriptive aspects of the
code may be allowed if proper test results, data and engineering analysis can show that the proposed
engineered design provides an equivalent level of quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, du-
rability and safety.

SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS

[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 12]
Chapter 12 is very short and primarily references SBC 801, the Saudi Fire Code, and NFPA standards.
This chapter covers design, installation and storage systems for nonflammable medical gas and non-
medical oxygen systems. Nonmedical gas systems are used in welding and other such operations.
These systems are required to comply with SBC 801 as well as NFPA 99, Health Care Facilities Code.
There are two exceptions to this section: Exception 1 is for portable systems or cylinder storage and
Exception 2 makes reference to SBC 501, the Saudi Mechanical Code, for vacuum system exhaust termi-
nations. Compliance of nonmedical oxygen systems is referenced to NFPA 51, Standard for the Design
and Installation of Oxygen-Fuel Gas Systems for Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes, and NFPA 55,
Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code.
 A n n e x    1 6 1

SUBSURFACE LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

[Ref. SBC 701 - Chapter 14]
Chapter 14 is for landscape irrigation systems that are connected to and use nonpotable water from
on-site water reuse systems. The material used, tests and inspection of these systems are the same
as required for similar plumbing systems and Sections 1401.2, 1401.3 and 1401.4 refer back to previ-
ous chapters of SBC 701 for compliance. Sections 1401.5 and 1401.6 make it clear that disinfection
and coloring (dyeing) of such systems are not required. The location of subsurface irrigation systems,
design load rate and distribution piping material standards are shown in Tables 1403.1.1, 1403.2 and
1403.3.

TABLE 1403.1.1 Design loading rate

Percolation rate (minutes per mm) Design Loading Factor (Liters per
square meter per day)
0 to less than 0.4 49
0.4 to less than 1.2 33
1.2 to less than 1.8 29
1.8 to 2.4 16

TABLE 1403.2 Distribution pipe

Material Standard
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe ASTM F 405
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe ASTM D 2729

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe

with a 88-mm O.D. and solid cellular ASTM F 1488
core or composite wall

TABLE 1403.3 Location of subsurface irrigation system

Element Minimum Horizontal Distance
Storage tank (m) Irrigation disposal field
(m)
Buildings 1.5 0.6
Lot line adjoining private 1.5 1.5
property
Water wells 15 30
Streams and lakes 15 15
Seepage pits 1.5 1.5
Septic tanks 0 1.5
Water service 1.5 1.5
Public water main 3.0 3.0
1 6 2    A n n e x

APPENDIX CHAPTERS
SBC 701 contains five appendix chapters, A through E. Appendix A provides a table with various ele-
ments in a plumbing system that should be considered in arriving at a permit fee. This appendix is
not mandatory unless the adopting jurisdiction specifically adopts in their law. Appendix B gives the
rates of rainfall for various cities and explains that rainfall rates in millimeters per hour are based on
a storm of 1-hour duration and a 100-year return period. Appendix C covers structural safety for cut-
ting and notching of wood and steel framing members in the process of plumbing installation. Cutting
and notching have been addressed in Chapter 3 of this Guide. Appendix D is reserved for discussion
of degree days and design temperatures and is currently blank in SBC 701. Appendix E covers sizing
of water piping systems and contains calculation procedures and a series of tables for water pipe siz-
ing. This appendix is not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the jurisdiction’s plumbing code
adopting law.