Materials and equipment (7.2): BCIN Plumbing

Last updated October 22, 2026

Values this chapter turns on

minimum trap seal depth, general rule: 38 mm; minimum trap seal depth, general rule
max flow from a public lavatory supply fitting: 1.9 L/min; max flow from a public lavatory supply fitting
max shower heads served by one shower drain: 6 heads; max shower heads served by one shower drain
min spacing of heads in a shower battery: 750 mm; min spacing of heads in a shower battery

Section 7.2. is the longest section of Part 7, and much of it is a list of standards. The exam rarely asks for a standard number. It asks where a material may be used, what a fixture in a public washroom must look like, which trap is banned, and what is special about a fire service main. Learn the "may only be used" and "shall not be used" rules; look up the standards when needed.

General rules for materials

Where soil, water or wastes are excessively corrosive, only suitable materials may be used (OBC Div. B 7.2.1.1.).
Material once used for anything other than potable water may never go into a potable water system; other used items, including fixtures, may be reused only if they meet the rules for new material (OBC Div. B 7.2.1.2.).
Pipe and fittings must carry the maker's mark and class, visible after installation. No certification mark is treated as proof of no certification unless shown otherwise, and certification must come from an agency accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (OBC Div. B 7.2.1.3.).
Piping in a pressure sewer, forcemain or sump pump discharge must withstand at least 1.5 times the maximum potential pressure (OBC Div. B 7.2.1.5.). A pump that can develop 200 kPa needs piping good for at least 300 kPa.
A water service pipe's working pressure rating must be at least the maximum water main pressure set by the water supply authority (OBC Div. B 7.2.1.6.).

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Fixtures, including public washrooms

Fixture rule	Article
Smooth, hard, corrosion-resistant surface	7.2.2.1.
No more than 6 shower heads on one shower drain; floor sloped so one head's water does not cross another's area; heads in a battery at least 750 mm apart (column showers excepted)	7.2.2.3.
No concealed overflow on a dishwashing sink or food preparation sink	7.2.2.4.
Water closet in a washroom for public use: elongated bowl with an open front seat (Eastern-Style toilets excepted)	7.2.2.5.
Lavatory with no overflow: centre outlet waste fitting	7.2.2.6.
Trough urinals: not permitted at all	7.2.2.7.

"Public use" is a defined term: fixtures in general washrooms of schools, gymnasiums, hotels, bars, public comfort stations and similar places where use is unrestricted (def.).

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Traps and interceptors

Traps need a seal of at least 38 mm, or 50 mm for fixtures draining to an acid waste system (OBC Div. B 7.2.3.1.). The seal must not rely on moving parts. Lavatory, sink and laundry tray traps (not a floor-mounted service sink) need a cleanout plug at the low point or a removable part. Bell traps and drum traps are banned. Bottle traps are banned except on a laboratory sink or other fixture with corrosion resistant fittings. A running trap needs an accessible handhole, or a cleanout if too small for one.

Interceptors must be readily cleanable; grease interceptors must not become air bound and are selected and installed under CSA B481.0 and B481.3. Where 7.4.4.3.(1) requires a grease interceptor, it must also be tested and rated under B481.1 (lard) or B481.2 (oil) (OBC Div. B 7.2.3.2.). Tubular traps are only for accessible locations (7.2.3.3.).

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Fittings

A T fitting in drainage only to connect a vent pipe; a cross fitting never (OBC Div. B 7.2.4.1.).
A double sanitary T may not join the fixture drains of two urinals unless a cleanout fitting is above the connection. No fitting may reduce flow by more than 10 percent (7.2.4.2.).
Short-radius 90° elbows (NPS 4 or less) only for horizontal to vertical in the direction of flow, where a trap arm enters a wall, or to connect trap arms under 7.5.6.3.(2) (7.2.4.3.).
No double Y, double TY, double T or double waste fitting in a nominally horizontal soil or waste pipe (7.2.4.4.).

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Where each pipe may go

Material	Restriction	Article
Concrete pipe	not above ground inside a building; no site-made fittings	7.2.5.2.
Vitrified clay	underground drainage only	7.2.5.3.
Polyethylene (PE)	water service pipe only, Series 160 or higher	7.2.5.4.
PVC pressure pipe	at least 1,100 kPa rating; not for hot water	7.2.5.7.
Cellular core PVC	only in residential buildings permitted to be of combustible construction	7.2.5.16.
Cast-iron soil pipe	never in a water system	7.2.6.1.
Galvanized steel	drainage or venting above ground inside; water distribution only in industrial occupancies or repairs	7.2.6.7.
Corrugated steel	underground outside a building, storm drainage only	7.2.6.8.
Sheet metal leader	above ground outside a building only	7.2.6.9.
Stainless steel	grade 304/304L or 316/316L only	7.2.6.10.
Lead waste pipe	never in a water system or as a building sewer	7.2.7.8.

Plastic drainage pipe used underground outside or under a building must have a stiffness of at least 320 kPa, except PVC pressure pipe and gasketed fittings (7.2.5.9.). Transition solvent cement is only for joining ABS drainage to PVC drainage (7.2.5.10.).

Reading the use tables

Table 7.2.7.4. gives P or N for each copper type in seven locations. K and L hard are the only types allowed for a building sewer or underground drainage; DWV tube is for above-ground drainage and venting only. Copper may not be used for a urinal fixture drain or the vent below the urinal's flood level rim (7.2.7.4.(3)). Table 7.2.6.15. is simpler: stainless steel pipe is permitted everywhere, stainless steel tube only for water distribution.

Acid and corrosive waste piping must be high-silicon iron, borosilicate glass or polyolefin/PVDF laboratory drainage (OBC Div. B 7.2.8.1.). Cement mortar may not be used for jointing, and solder or flux over 0.2% lead is banned in potable water (7.2.9.).

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Miscellaneous equipment

Saddle hubs are banned, except on an in-service building drain or sewer of at least 8 in. where the branch is at least two pipe sizes smaller than the run (OBC Div. B 7.2.10.5.).
Removable cleanout parts on ferrous fittings must be non-ferrous; a screw cap or test cap is not a cleanout plug (7.2.10.3.).
Flow limits (Table 7.2.10.6.): a public lavatory supply fitting is limited to 1.9 L/min, far below the private lavatory figure. Healthcare lavatories, emergency eye washes and emergency showers are exempt, and so are fixtures in heritage buildings.
Hot water temperature: shower and bathtub water may not exceed 49°C; in healthcare facilities and retirement homes the limit is 43°C, adjusted at the controls (7.2.10.7.). Where patients or residents of a Group B, Division 2 or 3 occupancy (and listed homes and child care facilities) can reach a tub, shower or hand basin, the temperature gauges and controls must be accessible only to supervisory staff and able to hold 43°C (7.2.10.7A.).
Direct flush valves must open fully and close positively, cycle automatically, have volume regulation and a vacuum breaker unless back-siphonage cannot occur (7.2.10.8.).
Drinking fountain bubblers: shielded orifice, water directed upward at about 45°, with flow regulation (7.2.10.9.).
Water storage tank linings outside a dwelling unit or secondary suite: NSF/ANSI 61 (7.2.10.7C.).

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Water service pipes and fire service mains

Fire service mains, and water service pipes combined with them, are designed, built, installed and tested to NFPA 24, except where 7.2.11.2. to 7.2.11.4. and 7.3.7.2. say otherwise (OBC Div. B 7.2.11.1.). Materials must meet Table 7.2.11.2.; for example PVC needs a rated working pressure of 1,100 kPa or more, and ductile iron needs a cement-mortar lining. A non-metallic service or fire main needs a light-coloured plastic coated tracer wire (14 gauge solid copper or 12 gauge copper clad steel) unless it is detectable without one (7.2.11.3.). A fire service main fed from more than one source needs a check valve at each source connection (7.2.11.4.).

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Common traps

Treating trough urinals as allowed in some occupancies. They are banned outright.
Using 49°C as the limit in a retirement home (it is 43°C).
Allowing a saddle hub on an NPS 6 building drain (minimum is 8 in.).
Picking cellular core PVC for an office building.

Chapter review

Chapter at a glance

One line per section: the idea to carry into the exam. Then the answers that most often catch candidates out.

Chapter at a glance: the key idea in each section
Section	Key idea
Fixtures, including public washrooms	"Public use" is a defined term: fixtures in general washrooms of schools, gymnasiums, hotels, bars, public comfort stations and similar places where use is unrestricted.
Traps and interceptors	Traps need a seal of at least 38 mm, or 50 mm for fixtures draining to an acid waste system.
Where each pipe may go	Plastic drainage pipe used underground outside or under a building must have a stiffness of at least 320 kPa, except PVC pressure pipe and gasketed fittings.
Water service pipes and fire service mains	Fire service mains, and water service pipes combined with them, are designed, built, installed and tested to NFPA 24, except where 7.2.11.2. to 7.2.11.4. and 7.3.7.2. say…

Fixtures, including public washrooms
"Public use" is a defined term: fixtures in general washrooms of schools, gymnasiums, hotels, bars, public comfort stations and similar places where use is unrestricted.
Traps and interceptors
Traps need a seal of at least 38 mm, or 50 mm for fixtures draining to an acid waste system.
Where each pipe may go
Plastic drainage pipe used underground outside or under a building must have a stiffness of at least 320 kPa, except PVC pressure pipe and gasketed fittings.
Water service pipes and fire service mains
Fire service mains, and water service pipes combined with them, are designed, built, installed and tested to NFPA 24, except where 7.2.11.2. to 7.2.11.4. and 7.3.7.2. say…

Usual exam traps

Treating trough urinals as allowed in some occupancies. They are banned outright.
Using 49°C as the limit in a retirement home (it is 43°C).
Allowing a saddle hub on an NPS 6 building drain (minimum is 8 in.).
Picking cellular core PVC for an office building.

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Questions on Materials and equipment (7.2), in the exam format, every answer explained and cited to its article. Sign in to start; a free account gets the free questions.

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Code cited in this chapter

Based on the official 2024 Building Code Compendium on ontario.ca.

OBC Div. B 7.2.1.1. Exposure of Materials
(1)Where unusual conditions exist such as excessively corrosive soil or water, only materials suited for use in such locations shall be used.
(2)Materials and equipment used in a drainage system where excessively corrosive wastes are present shall be suitable for the purpose.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.1.2. Restrictions on Re-Use
(1)Materials and equipment that have been used for a purpose other than the distribution of potable water shall not be subsequently used in a potable water system.
(2)Used materials and equipment, including fixtures, shall not be reused unless they meet the requirements of this Part for new materials and equipment and are otherwise satisfactory for their intended use.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.1.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.1.3. Identification
(1)Every length of pipe and every fitting shall
(a)have cast, stamped or indelibly marked on it the maker's name or mark and the weight or class or quality of the product, or
(b)be marked in accordance with the relevant standard.
(2)Markings required in Sentence (1) shall be visible after installation.
(3)The lack of certification markings on a product or plumbing component shall be regarded as proof, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that no certification exists.
(4)If a component of a plumbing system is required to be certified to a standard, the certification shall be made by a testing agency accredited for that purpose by the Standards Council of Canada.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.1.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.1.5. Withstanding Pressure
(1)Piping, fittings and joints used in pressure sewer, forcemain or sump pump discharge applications shall be capable of withstanding at least one and one-half times the maximum potential pressure.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.1.5. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.1.6. Working Pressure of a Water Service Pipe
(1)The working pressure rating of a water service pipe shall not be less than the maximum water main pressure at their point of connection as established by the water supply authority.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.1.6. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.2.1. Surface Requirements
(1)Every fixture shall have a smooth, hard, corrosion-resistant surface free of flaws and blemishes that may interfere with cleaning.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.2.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.2.3. Showers
(1)Shower receptors shall be constructed and arranged so that water cannot leak through the walls or floor. (See Note A-7.2.2.3.(1))
(2)Not more than 6 shower heads shall be served by a single shower drain.
(3)Where 2 or more shower heads are served by a shower drain, the floor shall be sloped and the drain located so that water from one head cannot flow over the area that serves another head.
(4)Except for column showers, when a battery of shower heads is installed, the horizontal distance between 2 adjacent shower heads shall be not less than 750 mm.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.2.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.2.4. Concealed Overflows
(1)A dishwashing sink and a food preparation sink shall not have concealed overflows. (See Note A-7.2.2.4.(1))
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.2.4. in the code viewer

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OBC Div. B 7.2.2.5. Water Closets in Public Washrooms
(1)Except for Eastern-Style toilets, where a water closet is installed in a washroom for public use it shall be of the elongated type and provided with a seat of the open front type.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.2.5. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.2.6. Lavatories
(1)A lavatory that does not have an overflow shall be equipped with a centre outlet waste fitting. (See Note A-7.2.2.6.(1))
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.2.6. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.2.7. Trough Urinals
(1)No trough urinal shall be used as part of a plumbing system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.2.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Public use
Public use means, when applied to plumbing fixtures, fixtures in general washrooms of schools, gymnasiums, hotels, bars, public comfort stations and other installations in which fixtures are installed so that their use is unrestricted.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.3.1. Traps
(1)Except as provided for in Sentence (2), traps shall
(a)have a trap seal depth of not less than 38 mm,
(b)be so designed that failure of the seal walls will cause exterior leakage, and
(c)have a water seal that does not depend on the action of moving parts. (See Note A-7.2.3.1.(1) and (3))
(2)The trap seal depth on fixtures draining to an acid waste system shall be a minimum of 50 mm.
(3)Except for a floor-mounted service sink, every trap that serves a lavatory, a sink or a laundry tray shall
(a)be provided with a cleanout plug located at the lowest point of the trap and of the same material as the trap, except that a cast iron trap shall be provided with a brass cleanout plug, or
(b)be designed so that part of the trap can be removed for cleaning purposes. (See Note A-7.2.3.1.(1) and (3))
(4)A bell trap shall not be installed in a drainage system.
(5)A drum trap shall not be installed in a drainage system.
(6)Except as permitted in Sentence (7), no bottle trap shall be used in a plumbing system.
(7)A bottle trap may be used on a laboratory sink or other fixture equipped with corrosion resistant fittings.
(8)No running trap shall be installed in a plumbing system unless an accessible handhole is provided for cleaning of the trap, and where the trap is too small to accommodate a handhole, a cleanout shall be provided.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.3.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.3.2. Interceptors
(1)Interceptors shall be designed so that they can be readily cleaned.
(2)Grease interceptors shall be designed so that they do not become air bound.
(3)Grease interceptors shall be selected and installed in conformance with
(a)CSA B481.0, "Material, design, and construction requirements for grease interceptors," and
(b)CSA B481.3, "Sizing, selection, location, and installation of grease interceptors." (See Note A-7.2.3.2.(3))
(4)Where a grease interceptor is required by Sentence 7.4.4.3.(1), the interceptor shall conform to
(a)CSA B481.1, "Testing and rating of grease interceptors using lard," or
(b)CSA B481.2, "Testing and rating of grease interceptors using oil."
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.3.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.3.3. Tubular Traps
(1)Tubular metal or plastic traps that conform to ASME A112.18.2 / CSA B125.2, "Plumbing Waste Fittings" shall be used only in accessible locations.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.3.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.4.1. T and Cross Fittings
(1)A T fitting shall not be used in a drainage system except to connect a vent pipe.
(2)A cross fitting shall not be used in a drainage system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.4.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.4.2. Sanitary T Fittings
(1)A double sanitary T fitting shall not be used to connect the fixture drains of two urinals where no cleanout fitting is provided above the connection.
(2)No pipe fitting, joint or connection that would tend to intercept solids or reduce the flow through a pipe by more than 10 percent shall be used in a plumbing system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.4.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.4.3. 90° Elbows
(1)Except as permitted in Sentences (2) and (3), 90° elbows of NPS 4 or less whose centre-line radius that is less than the NPS of the pipe shall not be used to join 2 sanitary drainage pipes.
(2)For sanitary drainage systems of NPS 4 or less, 90° elbows described in Sentence (1) shall only be permitted
(a)to change the direction of piping from horizontal to vertical, in the direction of flow,
(b)where a trap arm enters a wall, or
(c)to connect trap arms as permitted by Sentence 7.5.6.3.(2).
(3)A 90° elbow that is part of the pre-engineered wastewater heat recovery system is permitted to have a centre-line radius that is less than the size of the pipe.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.4.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.4.4. Fittings Restricted in Use
(1)No double Y, double TY, double T or double waste fitting shall be installed in a nominally horizontal soil or waste pipe.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.4.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.2. Concrete Pipe and Fittings
(1)Concrete pipe shall conform to
(a)CSA A257.1, "Non-reinforced circular concrete culvert, storm drain, sewer pipe, and fittings," or
(b)CSA A257.2, "Reinforced circular concrete culvert, storm drain, sewer pipe, and fittings."
(2)Joints with internal elastomeric gaskets shall conform to CSA A257.3, "Joints for circular concrete sewer and culvert pipe, manhole sections, and fittings using rubber gaskets."
(3)Concrete fittings fabricated on the site from lengths of pipe shall not be used. (See Note A-7.2.5.2.(3))
(4)Concrete pipe shall not be used above ground inside a building.
(5)Precast reinforced circular concrete manhole sections, catch basins and fittings shall conform to CSA A257.4, "Precast reinforced circular concrete manhole sections, catch basins, and fittings."
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.3. Vitrified Clay Pipe and Fittings
(1)Vitrified clay pipe and fittings shall be certified to CSA A60.1-M, "Vitrified Clay Pipe."
(2)Couplings and joints for vitrified clay pipe shall be certified to CSA A60.3-M, "Vitrified Clay Pipe Joints."
(3)Vitrified clay pipe and fittings shall not be used except for an underground part of a drainage system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.4. Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings
(1)Polyethylene water pipe, tubing and fittings shall conform to, and have a pressure rating meeting the requirements of, Series 160 or a higher series of CSA B137.1, "Polyethylene (pe) pipe, tubing and fittings for cold water pressure services."
(2)Except as permitted in Sentence 7.2.5.6.(1), polyethylene water pipe shall not be used except for a water service pipe.
(3)Butt fusion fittings for polyethylene pipe shall conform to ASTM D3261, "Standard Specification for Butt Heat Fusion Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Fittings for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe and Tubing."
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.7. PVC Pipe and Fittings
(1)PVC water pipe, fittings and solvent cement shall
(a)conform to CSA B137.3, "Rigid Polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe and fittings for pressure applications" or CSA B137.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) injection-moulded gasketed fittings for pressure applications," and
(b)a pressure rating of not less than 1,100 kPa.
(2)PVC water pipe fittings shall conform to
(a)ASTM D2466, "Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40," or
(b)ASTM D2467, "Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80."
(3)PVC water pipe and fittings in Sentences (1) and (2) shall not be used in a hot water system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.16. Cellular Core PVC Pipe and Fittings
(1)Cellular core PVC pipe shall
(a)conform to ASTM F3128, "Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Schedule 40 Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe with a Cellular Core," and
(b)be light grey, as specified in CSA B181.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) drain, waste, and vent pipe and pipe fittings."
(2)Fittings and solvent cements for cellular core PVC pipe shall conform to CSA B181.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) drain, waste, and vent pipe and pipe fittings."
(3)Cellular core PVC pipe shall only be used in a buildings of residential occupancy permitted to be of combustible construction.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.16. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.6.1. Cast-Iron Drainage and Vent Pipe and Fittings
(1)Drainage piping, vent piping and fittings made of cast iron shall conform to CSA B70, "Cast iron soil pipe, fittings, and means of joining."
(2)Cast-iron soil pipe and fittings shall not be used in a water system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.6.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.6.7. Steel Pipe
(1)Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), welded and seamless steel pipe shall not be used in a plumbing system.
(2)Galvanized steel pipe is permitted to be used in a drainage system or a venting system above ground inside a building.
(3)Galvanized steel pipe and fittings shall not be used in a water distribution system except
(a)in buildings of industrial occupancy, or
(b)for the repair of existing galvanized steel piping systems. (See Note A-7.2.6.7.(3))
(4)Galvanized steel pipe and fittings shall conform to ASTM A53 / A53 M, "Standard Specification for Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot Dipped, Zinc-Coated Welded and Seamless."
(5)Where galvanized steel pipe is used in a drainage system, it shall be used with drainage fittings.
(6)All steel pipe of NPS 4 and smaller shall be Schedule 40 or heavier and fittings of less than NPS 2 shall be galvanized screw fittings.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.6.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.6.8. Corrugated Steel Pipe and Couplings
(1)Corrugated steel pipe and couplings shall conform to CAN/CSA-G401, "Corrugated steel pipe products".
(2)Corrugated steel pipe shall only be used underground outside a building in a storm drainage system.
(3)Couplings for corrugated steel pipe shall be constructed so that when installed they shall
(a)maintain the pipe alignment,
(b)resist the separation of adjoining lengths of pipe,
(c)prevent root penetration, and
(d)prevent the infiltration of surrounding material.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.6.8. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.6.9. Sheet Metal Leaders
(1)A sheet metal leader shall not be used except above ground outside a building.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.6.9. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.6.10. Stainless Steel Pipe
(1)Stainless steel pipe shall conform to
(a)ASME B36.19 M, "Stainless Steel Pipe," and
(b)ASTM A312 / A312 M, "Standard Specification for Seamless, Welded, and Heavily Cold Worked Stainless Steel Pipes."
(2)Only grade 304/304 L or 316/316 L stainless steel pipe shall be used.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.6.10. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.7.8. Lead Waste Pipe and Fittings
(1)Lead waste pipe and fittings shall not be used in a water system or as a building sewer.
(2)When there is a change in nominal pipe size (NPS) of a lead water closet bend, the change shall be in the vertical section of the bend or made in a manner that prevents the retention of liquid in the bend.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.7.8. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.9. Plastic Pipe, Fittings and Solvent Cement Used Underground
(See Note A-7.2.5.9. to 7.2.5.11.)
(1)Plastic pipe, fittings and solvent cement used underground outside a building or under a building in a drainage system shall conform to
(a)ASTM F628, "Standard Specification for Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Schedule 40 Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe With a Cellular Core,"
(b)CSA B181.1, "Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) drain, waste, and vent pipe and pipe fittings,"
(c)CSA B181.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) drain, waste, and vent pipe and pipe fittings,"
(d)CSA B182.1, "Plastic drain and sewer pipe and pipe fittings,"
(e)CSA B182.2, "PSM type polyvinylchloride (PVC) sewer pipe and fittings,"
(f)CSA B182.4, "Profile polyvinylchloride (PVC) sewer pipe and fittings,"
(g)CSA B182.6, "Profile polyethylene (PE) sewer pipe and fittings for leak-proof sewer applications," or
(h)CSA B182.8, "Profile polyethylene (PE) storm sewer and drainage pipe and fittings," for Type 1 joints and non-perforated pipes,"
(i)CSA B137.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) injection-moulded gasketed fittings for pressure applications", or
(j)CSA B137.3, "Rigid polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe and fittings for pressure applications".
(2)Except as permitted in Clauses (i) and (j), plastic pipe used as described in Sentence (1) shall have a stiffness equal or greater than 320 kPa.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.9. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 7.2.5.10. Transition Solvent Cement
(1)Solvent cement for transition joints shall conform to
(a)CSA B181.1, "Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) drain, waste, and vent pipe and pipe fittings," or
(b)CSA B181.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) drain, waste, and vent pipe and pipe fittings."
(2)Transition solvent cement shall only be used for joining an ABS drainage system to a PVC drainage system.
Open OBC Div. B 7.2.5.10. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B Table 7.2.7.4. Permitted Use of Copper Tube and Pipe
Table 7.2.7.4. — Permitted Use of Copper Tube and Pipe Forming Part of Sentences 7.2.7.1.(1) and 7.2.7.4.(2) Type of Copper Tube or Pipe | Underground Water Distribution System | Above-groundWater Distribution System | Building Sewer | Underground Drainage System | Above-groundDrainage System | Underground Venting System | Above-groundVenting System K & L hard temper | N | P | P | P | P | P | P K & L soft temper | P | P | N | N | N | N | N M hard temper | N | P | N | N | P | N | P M soft temper | N | N | N | N | N | N | N DWV | N | N | N | N | P | N | P Notes to Table 7.2.7.4.: (1) P = Permitted and N = Not Permitted.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.7.4. Copper Tube
(1)Copper tube shall conform to,
(a)ASTM B88, "Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube," or
(b)ASTM B306, "Standard Specification for Copper Drainage Tube (DWV)."
(2)Except as provided in Sentence (3), the use of copper tube shall conform to Table 7.2.7.4.
(3)Copper tube shall not be used for the fixture drain or the portion of the vent pipe below the flood level rim of a urinal.
(4)Copper tube used in a plumbing appliance shall conform to
(a)ASTM B88, "Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube," or
(b)ASTM B68 / B68 M, "Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube, Bright Annealed."
(5)Type K or L copper tube shall be used for the potable water side of a heat exchanger in a pre-engineered wastewater heat recovery system.
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OBC Div. B Table 7.2.6.15. Plumbing Purposes[1]
Table 7.2.6.15. — Plumbing Purposes[1] Forming Part of Sentence 7.2.6.15.(1) Stainless Steel Pipe or Tube | Water Distribution System: Underground | Water Distribution System: Aboveground | Building Sewer | Drainage System: Underground | Drainage System: Aboveground | Venting System: Underground | Venting System: Aboveground Stainless steel pipe | P | P | P | P | P | P | P Stainless steel tube | P | P | N | N | N | N | N Notes to Table 7.2.6.15.: (1) P = Permitted and N = Not Permitted
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OBC Div. B Table 7.2.5.8. Maximum Permitted Pressure for CPVC Piping at Various Temperatures
Table 7.2.5.8. — Maximum Permitted Pressure for CPVC Piping at Various Temperatures Forming Part of Sentence 7.2.5.8.(2) Maximum Temperature of Water (°C) | Maximum Permitted Pressures (kPa) 10 | 3,150 20 | 2,900 30 | 2,500 40 | 2,100 50 | 1,700 60 | 1,300 70 | 1,000 82 | 690
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OBC Div. B 7.2.8.1. Pipe and Fittings
(1)Pipes and fittings to be used for drainage and venting of acid and corrosive wastes shall conform to
(a)ASTM A518 / A518 M, "Standard Specification for Corrosion-Resistant High-Silicon Iron Castings,"
(b)ASTM C1053, "Standard Specification for Borosilicate Glass Pipe and Fittings for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Applications," or
(c)CSA B181.3, "Polyolefin and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) laboratory drainage systems."
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OBC Div. B 7.2.9.2. Solder and Fluxes
(1)Solders for solder joint fittings shall conform to ASTM B32, "Standard Specification for Solder Metal."
(2)Solders and fluxes having a lead content in excess of 0.2% shall not be used in a potable water system.
(3)Fluxes for soldered joints shall conform to ASTM B813, "Standard Specification for Liquid and Paste Fluxes for Soldering of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube."
(4)Brazing alloys shall conform to ANSI/AWS A5.8 M / A5.8, "Specification for Filler Metals for Brazing and Brazed Welding," BCuP range.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.5. Saddle Hubs
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), a saddle hub or fitting shall not be installed in drainage, venting or water systems. (See Note A-7.2.10.5.(1))
(2)A saddle hub or saddle clamp may be installed in a building drain or building sewer of nominal diameter not less than 8 in. and that is in service provided that the connecting branch is at least two pipe sizes smaller than the run of the building drain or building sewer to which it is connected.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.3. Cleanout Fittings
(1)Every plug, cap, nut or bolt that is intended to be removable from a ferrous fitting shall be of a non-ferrous material.
(2)A cleanout fitting that as a result of normal maintenance operations cannot withstand the physical stresses of removal and reinstallation or cannot ensure a gas-tight seal shall not be installed.
(3)A screw cap or test cap shall not be used as a cleanout plug or cover.
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OBC Div. B Table 7.2.10.6. Water Flow Rates from Supply Fittings
Table 7.2.10.6. — Water Flow Rates from Supply Fittings Forming Part of Sentence 7.2.10.6.(2) Supply Fittings | Maximum Water Flow Rate, LPM Private Lavatory supply fittings | 5.7 Public Lavatory supply fittings | 1.9 Kitchen supply fittings (except those in industrial, commercial or institutional kitchens) | 8.3 Shower heads | 7.6 (2.1) Sentence (2) does not apply to a fixture located in a heritage building.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.7. Water Temperature Control
(1)Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), water supplied to shower heads or bathtubs shall be controlled by an automatic compensating valve conforming to
(a)ASME A112.18.1 / CSA B125.1, "Plumbing Supply Fittings," or
(b)ASSE 1016 / ASME A112.1016 / CSA B125.16, "Performance Requirements for Automatic Compensating Valves for Individual Showers and Tub/Shower Combinations."
(2)The requirement in Sentence (1) is permitted to be waived where hot water supplied only to bathtubs is controlled by
(a)an automatic compensating valve conforming to CSA B125.3, "Plumbing fittings," or
(b)a temperature-limiting device conforming to ASSE 1070 / ASME A112.1070 / CSA B125.70, "Performance requirements for water temperature limiting devices."
(3)The requirement in Sentence (1) is permitted to be waived where the water is supplied by a single tempered water line controlled by an automatic compensating valve conforming to CSA B125.3, "Plumbing fittings."
(4)Except as provided in Sentences (5) and (6) and 7.2.10.7A.(1), the temperature of water discharging from a shower head or into a bathtub shall not exceed 49°C.
(5)In healthcare facilities and retirement homes, the temperature of water discharging from a shower head or into a bathtub shall
(a)not exceed 43°C, and
(b)be adjusted at the shower or bathtub controls.
(6)Sentence (4) does not apply to hot water supplied to installed dishwashers or clothes washers.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.7A. Temperature Control Devices
(1)A water distribution system supplying hot water to any bathtub, shower or hand basin that is accessible to a patient or resident in a Group B, Division 2 or 3 occupancy or a resident of a group home, home for special care or residence for adults with developmental disabilities, or children within child care facilities shall have one or more temperature gauges and control devices that are
(a)accessible only to supervisory staff, and
(b)capable of being adjusted to ensure that the temperature of the water supplied to the fixtures does not exceed 43°C.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.8. Direct Flush Valves
(1)Every direct flush valve shall
(a)open fully and close positively under service pressure,
(b)complete their cycle of operation automatically,
(c)be provided with a means of regulating the volume of water that they discharge, and
(d)be provided with a vacuum breaker unless the fixture is designed so that back-siphonage cannot occur, and
(e)conform to ASSE 1037 / ASME A112.1037 / CSA B125.37, "Performance requirements for pressurized flushing devices for plumbing fixtures."
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.9. Drinking Fountain Bubblers
(1)The orifice of drinking fountain bubblers shall
(a)be of the shielded type, and
(b)direct the water upward to an angle of approximately 45°.
(2)Drinking fountain bubblers shall include a means of regulating the flow to the orifice.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.10.7C. Linings and Coatings of Water Storage Tanks
(1)Linings and coatings of water storage tanks that come into contact with potable water and are not within a secondary suite or an individual dwelling unit shall conform to NSF/ANSI 61, "Drinking Water System Components - Health Effects."
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OBC Div. B 7.2.11.1. Design, Construction, Installation and Testing
(1)Except as provided in Articles 7.2.11.2. to 7.2.11.4., and 7.3.7.2, the design, construction, installation and testing of fire service mains and water service pipe combined with fire service mains shall be in conformance with NFPA 24, "Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances."
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OBC Div. B Table 7.2.11.2. Water Service Pipe and Fire Service Main Materials
Table 7.2.11.2. Water Service Pipe and Fire Service Main Materials Forming Part of Sentence 7.2.11.2.(1) Material | Standard | Limitations Polyethylene pipe and fittings | Conform to Series 160 or a higher series of CSA B137.1, "Polyethylene (PE) Pipe, tubing and fittings for cold water pressure services" | N/A Crosslinked polyethylene pressure pipe or tube and fittings | Conform to CSA B137.5, "Crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing systems for pressure applications" | N/A PVC pipe and fittings | Conform to CSA B137.3, "Rigid polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe and fittings for pressure applications", or certified to CSA B137.2, "Polyvinylchloride (PVC) injection-moulded gasketed fittings for pressure applications" | Pipe and fittings must have a rated working pressure of 1,100 kPa or more CPVC pipe and fittings | Conform to CSA B137.6, "Chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) pipe, tubing and fittings for hot and cold water distribution systems" | The design temperature and pressure shall conform to the requirements of the CSA B137.6, "Chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) pipe, tubing and fittings for hot and cold water distribution systems" Cast-iron water pipe | Conform to ANSI/AWWA C151 / A21.51, "Ductile-Iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast" | Pipe shall have a cement-mortar lining conforming to ANSI/AWWA C104 / A21.4, "Cement-Mortar Lining for Ductile-Iron Pipe and Fittings" Iron fittings for cast-iron or ductile-iron water pipes | Conform to ANSI/AWWA C110 / A21.10, "Ductile-Iron and Gray-Iron Fittings" | Pipe shall have a cement-mortar lining conforming to ANSI/AWWA C104 / A21.4, "Cement-Mortar Lining for Ductile-Iron Pipe and Fittings" Rubber gasket joints for cast-iron and ductile-iron water pipes | Conform to ANSI/AWWA C111 / A21.11, "Rubber Gasket Joints for Ductile-Iron Pressure Pipe and Fittings" | N/A Screwed cast-iron water fittings | Conform to ASME B16.4, "Gray Iron Threaded Fittings: Classes 125 and 250" | Screwed cast-iron water fittings shall be cement-mortar lined or galvanized Type K soft copper tube | Certified to ASTM B88, "Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube" | N/A Solder-joint fittings for copper water systems | Conform to ASME B16.18, "Cast Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings", or conform to ASME B16.22, "Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder-Joint Pressure Fittings" | Solder-joint fittings not made by casting or the wrought process shall conform to the applicable requirements of ASME B16.18, "Cast Copper Alloy Solder-Joint Pressure Fittings" Flared-joint fittings for copper water systems | Conform to ASME B16.26, "Cast Copper Alloy Fittings for Flared Copper Tubes" | Flared-joint fittings not made by casting shall conform to ASME B16.26, "Cast Copper Alloy Fittings for Flared Copper Tubes" PE/AL/PE pipe and fittings | Conform to CSA B137.9, "Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) composite pressure-pipe systems" | N/A PEX/AL/PEX pipe and fittings | Conform to CSA B137.10, "Crosslinked polyethylene/aluminum/crosslinked polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) composite pressure-pipe systems" | N/A
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OBC Div. B 7.2.11.3. Tracer Wire
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), every non-metallic water service pipe or fire service main shall have attached to
(a)a 14 gauge TW solid copper light coloured plastic coated tracer wire, or
(b)a 12 gauge copper clad steel light coloured plastic coated tracer wire.
(2)Where a water service pipe or fire service main is detectable without the tracer wire referenced in Sentence (1), the tracer wire may be omitted.
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OBC Div. B 7.2.11.4. Required Check Valve
(1)Where a water service pipe is supplied with water by more than one drinking water system, a check valve shall be installed at each connection with a drinking water system.
(2)Where a fire service main is supplied with water by more than one source, a check valve shall be installed at each connection with a source of water.
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