The start of plumbing codes, local enforcement officials determined they would be better off using a “model code” rather than writing their own for every jurisdiction in the country.
Model codes are just that: a comprehensive model. A model code, like a product standard, is not self-existing but must be adopted by a governmental jurisdiction to become “law”. Model codes are usually written, published and maintained by membership organizations comprised of code enforcement officials.
Organizations were formed to write model codes, which were largely “regionalized”:
- International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) – developed the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) – used mostly in the Western United States;
- Building Officials and Code Administrators International (BOCA) – developed the National Plumbing Code (NPC) and National Building Code (NBC) – used primarily in the Northeastern United States;
- Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI) – developed the Standard Plumbing Code (SPC) and the Standard Building Code (SBC) – used primarily in the Southeastern United States;
- International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) – developed the Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC, originally a joint project with IAPMO) and the Uniform Building Code (UBC), which served as a complement to IAPMO’s UPC in the Western United States.
Plumbing codes are the basis for acceptance of materials for specific plumbing installations and for the methods of installation.
While many jurisdictions adopt model codes as they are published, these jurisdictions also have the power to amend codes when they are adopted. The following organizations and their model plumbing codes accept the use of plastic for piping applications:
NATIONAL PLUMBING CODE
Building Officials and Code Administrators International (BOCA)
UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE (ICC)
International Codes Council
STANDARD PLUMBING CODE
Southern Building Code Congress international (SBCCI)
ONE AND TWO FAMILY DWELLING CODE
Council of American Building Officials
NATIONAL STANDARD PLUMBING CODE
Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors – National Association
ANSI A40, SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR PLUMBING
Accredited Standards Committee A40
American National Standards Institute
NFPA 501, STANDARD FOR MANUFACTURED HOUSING
National Fire Protection Association
ICC/ANSI 2.0-1998
(Formerly CABO Manufactured Housing Construction Safety Standard)
International Codes Council
As a professional plumber one must know not only the plumbing codes but the local accepted plumbing codes to pass inspection. The required Continue Education has helped keep licensed plumbers updated but a professional has to continue all year keeping up with the trade.
Excerpts from ppfahome.org