REVISED NATIONAL PLUMBING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

I. History of Plumbing Practice

17th Century
- Birth of Plumbing Profession in the Philippines.
- First incorporated by Friar Engineers using European Standards
Friar – a member of any of certain religious orders of men.
18th Century – 19th Century
- Filipino Plumbers Starts maintaining, repairing and modelling plumbing systems in
all “pueblos”
20th Century
- Plumbing took a great leap with the arrival of the Americans.
1902
- PLUMBING TRADE becomes duly recognize by the government.
- Master Plumber John F. Hass became the first Chief of the Division of Plumbing
Construction and Inspection.
- Through the Initiative of Filipino Master Plumbers, a plumbing code based on the
Plumbing Code of the United States was Incorporated into the Building Code for the
City of Manila.
1935
- A group of Filipino organized the National Master Plumbers Association of the
Philippines (NAMPAP) and had it registered with the Security Exchange
Commission.
- The National Government adopted the Plumbing Code of Manila.
- City Ordinance 2411, otherwise known as “The Plumbing Code for the City of
Manila” was enacted in consultation with NAMPAP.
1954
- House Bill No. 962 has been approved (Later Become R.A. 1378).
June 18,1955
- Republic Act 1378 “PLUMBING LAW OF THE PHLIPPINES” was signed.
January 28, 1959
- The NATIONAL PLUMBING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES (NPC) has been
approved by Malacañang.
~
- National Water Works and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA) has been established.

1966-1969
- A Plumbing Curriculum was been approved by DepEd and was first introduced at
the Feati University
November 28, 1967
- First amendment of the NPC has been approved, which effected the inclusion of
“Asbestos-Cement Pipe” as an approve plumbing material.
1972
- R.A. 6541 “Building Code of the Philippines” was passed with the NPC of 1959 as
referral code.

1996
- NAMPAP President Jaime M. Cabase spearheaded the updating of the Revise
National Plumbing Code.
December 21, 1999
- President Joseph Ejercito Estrada approved the Revised National Plumbing Code of
the Philippines.
II. Basic Principles

Principle No. 1 – All premises intended for human habitation, occupancy or use shall be
provided with a supply of pure and wholesome water, neither connected with unsafe water
supplies nor subject to hazards of backflow or back-siphonage.
Principle No. 2 – Plumbing Fixtures, devices and appurtenances shall be supplied with water
in sufficient volume and at pressure adequate to enable them to function satisfactory and
without undue noise under all normal condition of use.
Principle No. 3 – Plumbing shall be designed and adjusted to use the minimum quantity of
water consistent with proper performance and cleaning.
Principle No. 4 – Devices for heating and storing water shall be so designed and installed as
to prevent dangers from explosion through overheating.
Principle No. 5 – Every building having plumbing fixtures installed and intended for human
habitation, occupancy or use on premises abutting on a street, alley or easement where there
is a public sewer, shall be connected to the sewer system.
Principle No. 6 – Each family dwelling unit or premises abutting on a sewer or with a private
sewage-disposal system shall have at least one water closet and one kitchen-type sink.
Further, a lavatory and bathtub or shower shall be installed to meet the basic requirement of
sanitation and personal hygiene.
Principle No. 7 – Plumbing fixtures shall be made of smooth non-absorbent material, free
from concealed fouling surfaces and shall be located in ventilated enclosures.
Principle No. 8 – The drainage system shall be designed, constructed and maintained to
safeguard against fouling, deposit of solids, clogging and with adequate cleanouts so arrange
that the pipes may be readily cleaned.
Principle No. 9 – All piping of plumbing system shall be of durable NAMPAP approve
materials, free from defective workmanship, designed and constructed by Registered Master
Plumbers to ensure satisfactory service.
Principle No. 10 – Each fixture directly connected to the drainage system shall be equipped
with a water-sealed trap.
Principle No. 11 – The drainage piping system shall be designed to provide adequate
circulation of air free from siphonage, aspiration or forcing of trap seals under ordinary use.
Principle No. 12 – Vent terminals shall be extend to the outer air and installed to preempt
clogging and the return of foul air to the building.
Principle No. 13 – Plumbing systems shall be subjected to such tests to effectively disclose
all leaks and defects in the workmanship.
Principle No. 14 – No substance which will clog the pipes, produce explosive mixtures,
destroy the pipes or their joints or interfere unduly with the sewage-disposal process shall be
allowed to enter the building drainage system.
Principle No. 15 – Proper protection shall be provided to prevent contamination of food,
water, sterile goods and similar materials by backflow of sewage. When necessary, the
fixture, device or appliance shall be connected indirectly with the building drainage system.
Principle No. 16 – No water closed shall be located in a room or compartment which is not
properly lighted and ventilated.
Principle No. 17 – If water closets or other plumbing fixtures are installed in buildings where
there is no sewer within a reasonable distance, suitable provision shall be made for disposing
of the building sewage by some accepted method of sewage treatment and disposal, such as
septic tank.
Principle No. 18 – Where plumbing drainage system may be subject to a backflow of
sewage, suitable provision shall be made to prevent its overflowing in the building.
Principle No. 19 – Plumbing system shall be maintained in serviceable condition by
Registered Master Plumber.
Principle No. 20 – All plumbing fixtures shall be installed properly spaced, to be accessible
for their intended use.
Principle No. 21 – Plumbing shall be installed by Registered Master Plumbers with due
regard to the preservation of the strength of structural members and the prevention of damage
to walls and other surfaces through fixture usage.
Principle No. 22 – Sewage or other waste from a plumbing system which may be deleterious
to surface or sub-surface waters shall not be discharged into the ground or into any waterway,
unless first rendered innocuous through subjection to some acceptable form of treatment.

III. Master Plumbers Code of Ethics

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

Section 100 – Permit Required

- To be secure at the office of the Building Official having jurisdiction under
the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Interior and
Local Government or City Mayors.

Section 101 – To Whom Permits May be Issued

- To a Registered and License Master Plumber.

Section 102 – Application for Permit

102.1 Application – The application shall be file by a Registered and License
Master Plumber on behalf of the building owner. Every application shall:
102.1.1 – Identify and describe the plumbing work to be covered by
the permit.
102.1.2 – Describe the land upon which the proposed plumbing work
is to be done.
102.1.3 – Indicate the use or occupancy.
102.1.4 – Be accompanied by plans, drawings, diagrams,
computations, technical specification and other data as required in
section 102.2.
102.1.5 – Give such other data and information as required by the
Administrative Authority.
102.1.6 – Be signed by Owner or permittee, who is required to submit
evidence to indicate such authority.
102.1.7 – Be signed and sealed by the Registered and License Master
Plumber.
Section 103 – Permit Issuance
103.1.1 – The application and other required documents filed by an applicant for a
permit shall be reviewed by Administrative Authority or other concern departments. If
the submitted documents conform to the requirements of the Plumbing Code and
other pertinent law ordinances, and upon payment of the fees specified in Section 105,
a permit shall then be issued to the Applicant.
103.1.2 – When the Administrative Authority issues the permit he shall endorse in
writing or stamp the plans and specification as “APPROVED’’.
103.1.3 – The Administrative Authority may issue a partial permit for the construction
of a part of a large and/or complicated plumbing system. The holder of such permit
may proceed work at his own risk without assurance that the final permit for the entire
building, structure or plumbing system will be granted.
103.2 Retention of Plans – One set of approved plans, specifications, computations
and related data shall be retained by the Administrative Authority. Two (2) sets of
approved plans, specification and data shall be returned to the applicant and owner.
One (1) set of which shall be kept at the jobsite at all times while the work is in
progress.
103.3 Validity of Permit – The issuance of permit or approval of plans and
specifications shall not be construed as a permit to violate and provision of this
Plumbing Code or of any other applicable ordinances. The issuance of a permit based
on submitted plans, specifications or other documents shall not prevent the
Administrative Authority from thereafter requiring the correction of errors on said
plans, specifications and other documents and from stopping an on-going plumbing
installation violative of this Code or of other pertinent ordinances of this Jurisdiction.
103.4 Expiration – In case of renewal or plumbing permit, a fee equivalent to ½ the
amount of the original fee shall be paid.
 a. A plumbing permit will be expired and become null and void if the
plumbing work is not commenced within 1 year from the date of issuance.
b. A plumbing work is suspended or abandoned at any time after having been
commenced for a period of 120 days.
103.5 Suspension or Revocation – The Administrative Authority may in writing,
suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provision of this Code whenever issued
in error or on basis of incorrect information supplied or in violation of pertinent
ordinances, rules and regulations.
SECTION 104 – Application for Existing Plumbing System.
104.1 Additions, Alterations or Repairs – May be made to any existing plumbing
system conform to requirements for a new plumbing system. Additions, alterations or
repairs shall not render and existing system unsafe, unsanitary or overloaded.
104.2 Changes in Building Occupancy – Plumbing System shall comply with all the
requirements of this Code applicable to the changed use or occupancy.
104.3 Maintenance – All plumbing systems, materials and appurtenances, both
existing and new, and all parts thereof shall be maintained in proper operating
condition. The owner or his designated agent shall be responsible for the maintenance
of plumbing systems. To determine compliance, the Administrative Authority may
cause the re-inspection of any plumbing system.
104.4 Moved Buildings – Plumbing systems, which are part of buildings or structures
in one place and moved into another Jurisdiction, shall comply with the provisions of
this Code for new installation.
SECTION 105 – Inspections
105.1 General – All plumbing system for which permits are required by this Code
shall be inspected by the Administrative Authority.
105.2 Operation of Plumbing Equipment – The requirements of this section do not
prohibit the operation or use of any plumbing accessory installed to replace existing
equipment or fixtures serving an occupied portion of the building when a request for
inspection of such equipment or fixture has been filed with the Administrative
Authority not more than 72 hours after such replacement work is completed and
before any portion of such plumbing system is concealed by any permanent portion of
the building.
105.3 Testing of System – All plumbing system shall be tested and approved as
required by this Code or the Administrative Authority.

105.4 Inspection Request – The Administrative Authority requires that every request
for inspection shall be filed at least three (3) days before such inspection is intended.
Such request shall be in writing and jointly signed by the Owner and the Registered
License Master Plumber – Contractor.
105.5 Other Inspection – In addition to the inspections required by this Code, the
Administrative Authority may require other inspections of the plumbing work to
comply with the other provisions of this Code, other pertinent laws and ordinances
enforced by the Administrative Authority.
105.6 Reinspection
105.6.1 A fee will be charged on the Applicant for each inspection or re-
inspection when a portion of the plumbing work for inspection is called for is
not completed.
105.6.2 This provision shall not be interpreted as requiring re-inspection fees
for the first time a job is rejected for failure to comply with the requirements
of this Code, but as deterrent on the practice of calling for inspections before
the job is ready for inspection or re-inspection.
105.6.3 Re-inspection fees shall be charged when the approved plans are not
readily available to the Inspector, for failure to provide access and facility on
 the date when the inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring
the approval of Administrative Authority.
105.6.4 To obtain re-inspection, the Applicant shall file an application, in
writing, on a form furnished for that purposed and pay the re-inspection fee.
105.6.5 In instances where re-inspection fees have been assessed, but pending
payment of required fees, no re-inspection of the work will be performed.
SECTION 106 – Connection Approval
106.1 Permanent Connection – No person shall install connection to any water
supply line, sewer or storm drain systems before the approval of the Administrative
Authority.
106.2 Temporary Connection – Administrative Authority will endorse to other
authorities or government agencies the issuance of temporary connections of the
plumbing equipment to the water supply main, sewer main, power line and gas main
for the purpose of testing equipment.
SECTION 107 – SPECIAL PROVISIONS
107.1 All Licensed Master Plumber shall secure for themselves a seal of the standard
size type as required. The same shall be used on all plumbing applications for permits
and all plumbing plans prepared by Registered and Licensed Master Plumbers as well
as on all documents required in the practice of their profession. The seal shall be
round in shape and shall be inscribed with the following:
107.1.1 Registered and Licensed Master Plumber at upper portion of the round
seal.
107.1.2 Name of Registered and Licensed Master Plumber at the upper center.
107.1.3 The registration number shall appear at the center below the name.
107.1.4 Philippines, appearing at the lower portion of the round seal.
SECTION 108 – Plumbing Fixtures Required
Each building shall be provided with sanitary facilities in accordance with best
practice for mobility of disabled persons as provided in the National Building Code of the
Philippines or by other Government departments having jurisdiction.
 CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS

ABS – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene.

ALLEY – any public space, public park or thoroughfare less than three (3) meters but not
less than two (2) meters in width dedicated or deeded for public use.

ALTER or ALTERATION – any change, addition or modification in construction or

occupancy.

ACCESSIBLE – when applied to a fixture, connection appliance or equipment, shall mean

having access thereto, but which may require prior removal of an access panel, door or
similar obstruction. “Readily Accessible” shall mean direct access without the necessity of
removing any panel, door or similar obstruction.

AIRBREAK – a physical separation, which may be a low inlet into the indirect waste
receptor from the fixture, appliance or device indirectly connected.

AIR GAP, DRAINAGE – The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere
between the lowest opening from any pipe, plumbing fixture, appliance or appurtenance
conveying waste to the flood level rim of the receptor.

AIR GAP, WATER DISTRIBUTION – an unobstructed vertical distance through the free
atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet conveying potable water to
the flood-level rim of any tank, vat or fixture.

APPROVED – Accepted or acceptable under an applicable specification or standard stated

or cited in this Code, or accepted as suitable for any proposed use under procedures and
powers of the Administrative Authority.

APPROVED TESTING AGENCY – an organization primarily established for purposes of

testing to approved standards and approved by the Administrative Authority.

AUTHORITY, ADMINISTRATIVE – The Administrative Authority including the

Building Official, the Commission, the Board and such other department or agency
established and authorized to administer and enforced the provisions of R.A. 1378.

BACKFLOW – The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances into the
distributing pipes of a potable supply of water from any source other than from its intended
source.

BACKFLOW CONNECTION – Condition or any arrangement whereby reverse flow can

occur.

BACKPRESSURE BACKFLOW – Occurs due to an increased reversed pressure above the

supply pressure. This may be due to pumps, boilers, gravity or other sources or pressure.

BACKFLOW PREVENTER – Devised or means to prevent flow of liquid from returning

to the source of supply. Also called vacuum breaker.

BACK-SIPHONAGE – The flowing back of used, contaminated or polluted water from a

plumbing fixture or vessel into a water supply pipe due to a negative pressure in such pipe.
See backflow.
BACKWATER VALVE – A devised installed in a drainage system to prevent reverse flow.

BACKVENT PIPE – The part of a vent line, which connects directly with an individual trap
underneath or behind the fixture and extends to the branch or main vent pipe at any point
higher than the fixture or fixture traps it serves. This is sometimes called an individual vent.
See Revent Pipe.

BALL COCK – A valve opened and closed by the fall and rise, respectively, of an attached
ball floating on the surface of the liquid.

BALL JOINT – A type of pipe connection in which a ball-shaped end is held in a cuplike
shell and allows movements in every direction.

BATHROOM – A room equipped with a shower stall or bathtub.

BATHTUB – A container which you fill with water and sit in while you wash your body.

BATTERY OF FIXTURES – Any of two or more similar adjacent fixtures which discharge
into a common horizontal soil or waste branch.

BELL OR HUB – That portion of a pipe which, for a short distance, is sufficiently enlarge to
receive the end of another pipe of the same diameter for the purpose of making a caulked or
push-on joint.

BENDING PIN (or Iron) – A tool for straightening or bending lead pipe.

BIBB – synonyms with faucet, cock, tap, plug, etc. The work “Faucet” is preferred.

BIDET – Used for cleaning private parts. Sometimes referred to as “Female Urinals”. Also
called a “sitz” bath.

BLANK FLANGE – A pipe flange that is not drilled for bolt holes.

BLIND FLANGE – A flange that closes the end of a pipe. There is no opening for the
passage of liquid or gas.

BLOW-OFF – A controlled outlet of a pipeline to discharge liquid or detritus.

BOARD – The licensure board for Master Plumbers.

BOILER BLOW-OFF – A valve outlet of a boiler that permits discharge or accumulated

sediment.

BRANCH – Any part of the piping system other than a main, riser or stack.

BRANCH INTERVAL – A length of soil or waste stack corresponding in general to a story

height, but in no case less than 2.43meters within which the horizontal branches from one
floor or story of a building are connected to the stack.

BRANCH, FIXTURE – See Fixture Branch.

BRANCH, HORIZONTAL – See Horizontal Branch.

BRANCH VENT – A horizontal vent connecting one or more individual vertical back vents
with the vent stack or stack vent.

BRAZED JOINT – Any joint obtained by joining of metal parts with alloys which melt at
temperatures higher than 499 degrees centigrade, but lower than the melting temperature of
the parts to be joined.

B & S – Brown and Sharpe (Specification) or Bell and Spigot (Ends of Pipes)

BUILDING – A structure built, erected and framed of component structural parts designed
for the housing, shelter, enclosure or support of persons, animals, or property of any kind.

BUILDING DRAIN – That part of the lowest horizontal piping of a drainage system which
receives the discharge from soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside the walls of the
building and conveys it to the building sewer beginning 0.6meters outside the building wall.

BUILDING SEWER – That part of the horizontal piping of a drainage system which starts
from the end of the building drain and which receives the discharge of the building drain and
conveys it to the public sewer, private sewer, individual sewage disposal system or other
point of disposal.

BUILDING SUBDRAIN – That portion of an underground system, which cannot drain by

gravity into the building sewer.

BUILDING SUPPLY – The pipe carrying potable water from the water meter or other
source of water supply to a building or other point of use or distribution on the lot. Building
supply shall also mean water service connection.

CAULKING – Plugging an opening with oakum, lead or other materials that are pounded
into the annular space. Also, the material pounded into the annular opening.

CAP – A fitting, screwed or caulked over the end of a pipe for closing the pipe end.

CATCH BASIN – a receptacle in which liquids are retained for a sufficient period of time to
allow settable material to deposit.

CERTIFIED BACKFLOW ASSEMBLY TESTER – A person who has shown

competence to test and maintain backflow assemblies to the satisfaction of the Administrative
Authority having jurisdiction.

CESSPOOL – A non-watertight lined excavation in the ground which receives the discharge
of a sanitary drainage system or part thereof, designed to retain the organic matter and solids
discharging therefrom, but permitting liquid to seep through the bottom and sides of the
cesspool.

CHASE – A vertical shaft for installation of different pipe stacks.

CHECK VALVE – A valve that automatically closes to prevent the flow of liquid or gas in
reverse direction.

CIRCUIT VENT – A group vent pipe which starts in front of the extreme fixture connection
on a horizontal branch and connects to the vent stack. See loop vent also.

CLARIFIER – See interceptor

CODE – The word “Code” or “This Code” when used alone, shall mean regulations,
subsequent amendments thereto or any emergency rule or regulation which the
Administrative Authority having jurisdiction may lawfully adopt.

COMMON VENT – See unit vent or dual vent.

COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT SYSTEM – A specially designed system of waste

piping embodying the horizontal wet venting of one or more sinks or floor drains by means of
a common horizontal waste and vent pipe, adequately sized to provide free movement of air
above the flow line of the drain.

COMBUSTIBLE CONSTRUCTION – A structure which any part of its structural

framework will ignite and burn at a temperature of 756 degrees centigrade or less.

COMMISSION – The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)

COMMON – That part of a plumbing system designed and installed to serve more than one
(1) appliance, fixture, building or system.

CONFINED SPACE – A room or space having a volume less than 14cu.m. with
250kilogram calorie of the aggregate input rating of all fuel burning appliance installed in
that space.

CONTAMINATION – An impairment of the quality of the potable water which creates an

actual hazard to the public health through poisoning or spread of disease by sewage,
industrial fluids or waste. Also, defined as High Hazard.

CONTINUOUS VENT – A continuous vent is vertical vent that is a continuation of the

drain to which the vent connects.

CONTINUOUS WASTE – A drain connecting the compartments of a set of fixtures to a

trap or connecting other permitted fixtures to a common trap.

CONDENSATION – Change of the physical state of matter from gas phase into liquid
phase, and is the reverse of evaporation.

CONDUCTOR OR DOWNSPOUT – A vertical pipe to convey rainwater.

CORPORATION COCK / CORPORATION STOP – A stop valve placed at the

connection of the water service pipe to the water main.

COURT – An open, unoccupied space, bounded on two (2) or more sides by the walls of the
building. An inner court is a court entirely within the exterior walls of a building. All other
courts are outer courts.

CRITICAL LEVEL – C-L or C/L marking on a backflow prevention device or vacuum

breaker is a point conforming to approved standards and established by the testing laboratory
(usually stamped on the device by the manufacturer) which determines the minimum
elevation above the flood level rim of the fixture or receptacle served where the device may
be installed. When a backflow prevention device does not bear a critical level marking, the
bottom of the vacuum breaker, combination valve or the bottom of any such approved device
shall constitute the critical level.
CROSS CONNECTION – Any connection or arrangement, physical or otherwise, between
a potable water supply system and any plumbing fixture or any tank, receptacle, equipment or
device, through which enables non-potable, used, unclean, polluted, contaminated water or
other substances to enter into any part of such potable water system under any condition.

CURB BOX / VALVE BOX / BUFALLO BOX / B-BOX – A vertical cast iron sleeve,
accessible from the public way, housing the shut-off valve (curb cock / curb stop) for a
property’s water service line.

CURB COCK / CURB STOP – A water service shut off valve located in a water service
pipe near the curb and between the watermain and the building. The valve is usually operated
by a wrench or valve key and is used to start or stop flows in the water service line to a
building.

DEAD-END – The extended portion of a pipe that is closed at on end to which no connection
are made on the extended portion, thus permitting the stagnation of liquid or air therein.

DEPARTMENT HAVING JURISDICTION – The Administrative Authority and includes

any other law enforcement agency concerned by any provision of this Code, whether such
agency is specifically named or not.

DEVELOPED LENGTH – The length of a pipe along its centerline and fittings.

DIAMETER – Unless specifically stated, the term “diameter” is the nominal diameter as
designated commercially. I.D. denotes inside diameter of pipe and O.D. denotes outside
diameter of tube.

DOMESTIC SEWAGE – The liquid and water-borne waste derived from the ordinary
living processes, free from industrial waste and of such character that permit satisfactory
disposal without special treatment. It is discharge into the public sewer or into a private
sewage disposal system.

DOUBLE-BEND FITTING – A pipe fitting with adjacent reverse bends and shaped like the
letter “S”.

DOUBLE OFFSET – Two offsets in successions or in series such that the centerlines of the
outside ends are in the same straight line.

DOWNSPOUT – The vertical portion of rainwater conductor.

DRAIN – A pipe, which carries ground and surface waters, storm water or wastewater into a
building drainage system.

DRAINAGE SYSTEM – Includes all the pipings within public or private premises which
conveys sewage or other liquid wastes to a legal point of disposal but does not include the
mains of a public sewer system or a public sewage treatment or disposal plant.

DRY VENT – A vent that does not carry liquid of water-borne wastes.

DUAL VENT – See unit vent.

DURHAM SYSTEM – A term used to describe soil or waste system where all pipings are of
threaded pipe, tubing or other such rigid construction using recessed drainage fittings to
correspond to the types of piping.
EFFECTIVE OPENING – Is the minimum cross-sectional area at the point of water supply
discharge measured or expressed in terms of (1) diameter of a circle; (2) if the opening is not
circular, the diameter of a circle of equivalent cross-sectional area. (This is applicable also to
air gap installation).

EXISTING WORK – The on-going installation of the plumbing system or any part thereof
which has been installed prior to the effectivity of this Code.

EVAPORATION – Liquid that occurs from the surface of a liquid into gaseous phase that is
not saturated with the evaporating substance.

FAMILY – One person living alone or a group living together, weather related to each other
by birth or not.

FAUCET – A valve located at the end of a water pipe through of which water can be drawn
from or held within the pipe.

FERRULE – A metallic sleeve, caulked or joined to an opening in a pipe, into which a plug
is screwed that can be removed for cleaning or examining the interior of the pipe.

FIXTURE – A receptacle other than a trap attached to a plumbing system which are used to
provide, receive and discharge water, liquid and water-carried wastes into a drainage system
which they are connected to.

FIXTURE BRANCH – The water supply pipe between the fixture supply pipe and the
water-distributing pipe.

FIXTURE DRAIN – The drainpipe from the trap of a fixture to the junction of that drain
with any other drainpipe.

FIXTURE SUPPLY – A water supply pipe connecting the fixture with the fixture branch.

FIXTURE UNIT – is an arbitrary quantity in terms of which the load producing effects of
water requirements on the plumbing system of different kind of plumbing fixtures are
expressed in some arbitrarily chosen scale. One (1) Fixture Unit is equivalent to a rate flow of
28.3liters per minute (1cu.ft./min)

FLOOD LEVEL – The level in a fixture at which water begins to overflow over the top or
rim of the fixture.

FLOOD LEVEL RIM – Is the top edge of a receptacle from where water overflows.

FLOODED – A fixture is flooded when the liquid therein rises to the flood level rim.

FLOOR AREA – The area included within the surrounding walls of a building (or portion
thereof), exclusively of vent shafts and courts.

FLOOR DRAIN – A fixture that is installed in the floor of a structure, mainly design to
remove any standing water near it.

FLUSH TANK – A tank located above or integral with water closet, urinal or similar
fixtures for flushing or removing excrements in the fixture.
FLUSH VALVE – Is a device located at the bottom of the tank for the purpose of flushing
water closet and similar fixtures.

FLUSHOMETER TANK – Is integrated within an air accumulator vessel which is designed

to discharge a predetermined quantity of water into fixtures for flushing purposes.

FLUSHOMETER VALVE – Is a device which discharges a predetermined quantity of

water into fixtures for flushing purposes and is actuated by direct water pressure.

GATE VALVE – A valve in which the flow of water is cut off by means of a circular disc
fitted against machine-smooth faces, at right angles to the direction of flow. The disk is raised
or lowered by means of a threaded stem connected to the handle of the valve. The opening in
the valve is usually as large as the full bore of the pipe.

GLOBE VALVE – A valve in which the flow of fluid is cut off by means of a circular disc
that fits over and against the horizontal valve seat. The movement of the plane of disc is
parallel to the normal direction of flow of water through the orifice resulting to a tortuous
passage which offers a high-pressure loss.

GOOSENECK – A return bend of small-sized pipe, one end of which is about 30cm long
and the other end is about 7.5cm long. It is commonly used as a faucet for a pantry sink.
Also, the term means the flexible tubing connection between a service pipe and water main.

GRADE – Is the slope or fall of a line of pipe with reference to a horizontal plane. In
drainage, it is usually expressed as the fall in centimeters per meter or percentage slope of
pipe.

GREASE INTERCEPTOR – An interceptor of at least 3cu.m. capacity to serve one or

more fixtures and which is remotely located.

GREASE TRAP – A device designed to retain grease from one to a maximum of four
fixtures.

GROUND WATER – The water that stands in or passes through the ground.

GROUP VENT – A branch vent that performs its functions for two (2) or more traps.

HANGERS – See supports.

HEIGHT OF BUILDING – The vertical distance from the “Grade Line” to the highest point
of the coping of a flat roof or to the top line of a mansard roof or to the average height of the
highest gable of a pitch or hip-roof.

HIGH HAZARD – See Contamination

HORIZONRAL BRANCH – Is a drainpipe extending laterally from a soil or waste stack or

building drain with or without vertical sections or branches, which receives the discharge
from one or more fixture drains and conducts it to the soil or waste stack or to the building
drain.

HORIZONTAL PIPE – Is any pipe or fitting installed in a horizontal position or which

forms an angle of not more than forty-five (45) degrees with the horizontal plane.
HOUSE DRAIN – Is that part of the lowest horizontal piping of a plumbing system which
receives the discharge from soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside of a building and
conveys it to the house sewer outside of the building.
HOUSE SEWER – Is that part of a plumbing system extending from the house drain at a
point 0.60meters from the outside face of the foundation wall of a building to the junction
with the street sewer or to any point of discharge, and conveying the drainage of one building
site.

HOUSE STORM SEWER – Is the pipeline from the building to the public or street storm
drainage system.

HUBLESS PIPES – Are cast iron soil pipes with plain ends connected together with bolted
stainless-steel bands and neoprene gaskets.

INDIRECT WASTE PIPE – Is a pipe that does not connect directly with the drainage
system but conveys liquid wastes by discharging into a plumbing fixture, interceptor or
receptacle directly connected to the drainage system.

INDIVIDUAL VENT – Is a pipe installed to vent a fixture trap and which connect with the
vent system above the fixture served or terminates in the open air.

INDUSTRIAL WASTE – Any and all liquid or water-borne waste from industrial or
commercial processes, except domestic sewage.

I.P.S. – Iron Pipe Size

INSANITARY – A condition contrary to sanitary principles or injurious to health.

INTERCEPTOR (CLARIFIER) – Is a device designed and installed to separate and retain

deleterious, hazardous, or undesirable matters from normal wastes and permits normal
sewage or liquid wastes to discharge into the disposal terminal by gravity.

INVERT – The lowest portion of the interior part of any pipe or conduit that is not vertical.

JURISDICTION – The administrative Authority under the Department of Health,

Department of Public Works & Highways, Department of Interior and Local Government, the
City Mayors or Chartered Cities, Environmental Management Bureau (D.E.N.R.) and other
government entities that regulate the practice of Registered and Licensed Master Plumbers.

LABELED – Equipment or materials bearing a label of listing agency. All labels shall be
embossed, stamped or indelibly marked with stickers, glued on the finished product
indicating the weight, specification and logo of the manufacturer.

LATERAL – In plumbing, a secondary pipeline. In sewage, a common sewer to which no

other branch sewer is connected. It receives sewage from building sewer service connections
only.

LATRINE – A water closet consisting of a continuous trough containing water. The through
extends under two or more adjacent seats. Prohibited by health authorities for permanent
installations.

LAVATORY – A fixture designed for the washing of the hands or face. Sometimes call a
wash basin.
LEACHING CESSPOOL – A cesspool that is not watertight.

LEADER – (See Conductor). A pipe connected from building gutter to the downspout or
conductor.

LENGTH OF PIPE – Is measured along its centerline.

LIQUID WASTE – Is the discharge from any fixture, appliance or appurtenance in

connection with a plumbing system which does not receive fecal matter.

LISTED – Equipment or materials included in a LIST published by a listing agency that

maintain periodic inspection on current production of listed equipment or materials and
whose listing state either that the equipment or materials complied with approved standards
or have been tested and found suitable for use in specified manners.

LISTING AGENCY – Is an agency accepted by the Administrative Authority in the

business of listing or labeling and which maintains a periodic inspection program on current
production of listed models, and makes available published report of such listing where
specific information is included that the product has been tested against approved standards
and found safe for use in a specific manner.

LOCAL VENT – A pipe or shaft to convey foul air from a plumbing fixture or a room to the
outer air.

LOOP OR CIRCUIT VENT – A vertical vent connection on a horizontal soil or waste pipe
branch at a point downstream of the last fixture connection and turning to a horizontal line
above the highest overflow level of the highest fixture connected thereat; the terminus
connected to the stack vent in the case of loop venting or to the vent stack nearby in case of
circuit venting.

LOT – A single area of land legally recorded or validated by other means acceptable to the
Administrative Authority where a building is situated or site of any work regulated by this
Code, together with the yard, court, and unoccupied space legally required for the building or
works, and which is owned by or in the lawful possession of the owner of the building works.

LOW HAZARD – See pollution.

MAIN – any system of continuous piping, which is the principal artery of the system where
branches are connected.

MAIN SEWER – See Public Sewer

MAIN VENT – the principal artery of the venting system to which vent branches are
connected.

MANHOLE – a large opening in a sewer line or part of a plumbing system constructed with
sufficient size for a man to gain access therein for maintenance purposes and facility for
changes of line and/or grade of pipeline.

MASTER PLUMBER – a person technically and legally qualified and licensed to practice
the profession of Master Plumbing without limitation in accordance with Republic Act 1378,
having passed the examinations conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission, has
received a Certificate of Registration from the Board of Master Plumbing and possesses the
current license to practice.
METER STOP – A valve installed in a water service pipe for control of the flow of water to
a building.

MOBILE HOME PARK SEWER – that part of the horizontal piping of sanitary drainage
system which measures 0.6meters downstream from the last mobile home site and conveys
sewage to a public sewer, private sewer, individual sewage disposal system or other points of
disposal.

NAMPAP – National Master Plumber Association of the Philippines.

OAKUM – Hemp or old hemp rope soaked in oil or tar to make it waterproof.

OCCUPANCY – The purpose for which a building is used or intended to be used. The term
also includes the building or room housing used. Change of occupancy is not interpreted to
mean change of tenants or proprietors.

OFFSET – in a line of piping is a combination of elbows or bends, which brings one section
of the pipe out of line but into a line parallel with the original section.

OVERFLOW – Plumbing feature that is added to prevent your sink, bathtub or other similar
fixtures from overflowing with water in case of clog.

PERSON – a natural person, his heirs, executors, administrators or assigns; and also includes
a firm, partnership or corporation, its or their successors or assign or agents of any of the
aforesaid.

PB – Polybutylene. Tube made of plastic material and colored black. The cross-sectional
shape is normally oval and is denoted by its outside diameter or O.D. Normally used as water
service connection from main to meter.

PE – Polyethylene. Tube made of plastic material and colored black. The cross-sectional
shape is circular and is denoted by its outside diameter or O.D.

PIPE – a cylindrical conduit or conductor conforming to the particular dimensions

commonly known as “pipe size” and is denoted by its interior diameter or I.D.

PITCH – See grade.

PLUMBING – the art and technique of installing pipes, fixtures and other apparatuses in
buildings for bringing in the supply, liquids, substances, and/or ingredients and removing
them; and such water, liquid and other carried-wastes hazardous to health, sanitation, life,
property; also, the pipes and fixtures after installation i.e., the plumbing system.

PLUMBING APPLIACE – any one of a special class of device or equipment intended to

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

PLUMBING APPURTENANCE – a manufactured device or a prefabricated assembly or

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

PLUMBING FIRM – a sole proprietorship or corporation composed of Registered and

Licensed Master Plumber together with allied professionals, incorporators, directors and/or
executive officer and Licensed Master Plumber only render work and services within the
cognizance of a Registered Master Plumber and members of the allied professions also only
render work and services within the cognizance of their respective professions.

PLUMBING FIXTURES – are approved-type installed receptacles, devices or appliances

supplied with water or receive liquid or liquid-borne wastes and discharge such wastes into
the drainage system to which they may be directly or indirectly connected. Industrial or
commercial tanks, vats and similar processing equipment are not plumbing fixtures, but may
be connected to or discharge into approved traps or plumbing fixtures as provided for in this
Code.

PLUMBING OFFICIAL – the Administrative Authority or the officer charge with the
administration and enforcement of the National Plumbing Code, or his regularly authorized
deputy.

PLUMBING SYSTEM – includes all potable water supply and distribution pipes, all
plumbing fixtures and traps; all sanitary and storm drainage systems; vent pipes, roof drains,
leaders and downspouts; and all building drains and sewers, including their respective joints
and connections; devices, receptacles, and appurtenances within the property; water lines in
the premises: potable, tap, hot, and chilled water pipings; potable water treating or using
equipment; fuel gas piping; water heaters and vent for same.

PLUMBING UNIT – a minimum standard quantity of plumbing fixtures that discharges

waste into a plumbing installation including: one (1) water meter, one (1) water closet, one
(1) lavatory, one (1) shower head and drain for a bathtub or shower stall, one (1) kitchen sink,
one (1) laundry tray and three (3) floor drains and four (4) faucets/hose bibbs.

POLLUTION – an impairment of the quality of the water to a degree which creates hazard
to the public health and adversely affects the aesthetics and potable qualities of waters for
domestic use.

POTABLE WATER – water satisfactory for drinking, culinary and domestic purposes and
meets the requirements of the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.

PRECIPITATION – Any product of the condensation of atmospheric water vapor that falls
under gravity.

PRESSURE – The normal force exerted by a homogeneous liquid or gas, per unit of area on
the wall of the container.

STATIC PRESSURE – The pressure existing without any flow motion.

RESIDUAL PRESSURE – The pressure available at the fixture or water outlet;
allowance is made for pressure drop due to friction loss, head, meter and other loses
in the system during maximum demand period.

PRIMARY BRANCH – of the building drain is the single sloping drain from the base of a
stack to its junction with the main building drain.
PRIVATE OR PRIVATE USE – In classification of plumbing fixtures, “private” applies to
plumbing fixtures in residences and apartments, to private bathrooms in hotels and hospitals,
to rest rooms in commercial establishment for restricted use, single fixture or group of single
fixtures and to similar installations where the fixtures are intended for the use of a family or
an individual.

PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM – A septic tank with the effluent discharging
into a subsurface disposal field, into one ore more seepage pits, or into a combination of
subsurface disposal field and seepage pit or of such other facilities as may be permitted under
the procedures set forth elsewhere in this Code.

PRIVATE SEWER – a building sewer, which receives the discharge from more than one
building drain and conveys it to a public sewer, private sewage disposal system, or other
points of disposal.

PRIVY – an outhouse or structure used for the deposition of excrement.

PRIVY VAULT – a pit beneath a privy where excrement collects.

PUBLIC OR PUBLIC USE – In the classification of plumbing fixtures, “public” or “public

use” shall mean all buildings or structures that are not defined as private or private use.

PUBLIC SEWER – a common sewer directly controlled by public authority to which all
abutters have equal rights of connection.

PUMP – A device use to moved fluids, such as liquids and slurries. A pump displaces a
volume by physical or mechanical action.

PVC – Polyvinyl Chloride. Potable water pipings are color-code BLUE. Drain pipes are
manufactured with toxic components and are color-coded gray, orange or brown.

QUALITY OF MATERIALS – all plumbing fixtures and materials used in any discharge or
plumbing system or parts thereof shall be free from defects.

RECEPTOR – an approved plumbing fixture or device such materials, shape and capacity to
adequately receive the discharge from indirect waste pipes, constructed and located to be
readily cleaned.

REGULATING EQUIPMENT – include all valves and controls used in plumbing systems
which are accessible.

RELIEF VENT – a vertical vent line, the primary function of which is to provide additional
circulation of air between the drainage and vent systems or to act as an auxiliary vent on a
specially designed system such as a “yoke vent” connection between the soil and vent stacks.

REPAIR – the reconstruction or renewal or any part of an existing building for its
maintenance. The word “repair” or “repairs” shall not apply to any change of construction or
occupancy.

RETURN BEND – an open return bend usually made up two 90˚ bends with inside and
outside threads, flange or welded fittings; and applied also to a one hundred eighty degrees
bend in copper tubings.

REVENT PIPE – See back vent pipe.

RIM – an unobstructed top open edge of a fixture.

RISER – a water supply pipe, which extends vertically to one full story or more to convey
water into pipe branches or plumbing fixtures.

ROUGHIN-IN – the installation of all pipings and fitting parts of the plumbing system,
which can be completed prior to the installation of fixtures and accessories. These include
sanitary and storm drainage, tap, hot and chilled water supplies, gas pipings, vent pipings and
necessary fixture supports.

SAND INTERCEPTOR – See interceptor.

SANITARY SEWAGE – the wastewater containing human excrements and liquid

household waste. Also called domestic sewage.

SANITARY SEWER – a sewer intended to receive sanitary sewage with or without pre-
treated industrial wastes and without the admixture of rain or ground water.

SCULLERY – A small kitchen or room at the back of a house used for washing dishes and
other dirty household work.

SEAL – The vertical distance between the dip and the crown weir of a trap. Also, the water
in the trap between the dip and the crown weir.

SECONDARY BRANCH – any branch in a building drain other than the primary branch.

SEEPAGE PIT – a loosely line excavation in the ground, which receives the discharge of a
septic tank and designed to permit the effluent from the septic tank to seep through pit
bottoms and sides.

SEPTIC TANK – a water-tight receptacle which receives the discharge of a sanitary

plumbing system or part thereof, designed and constructed to retain solids, digest organic
matter through a period of detention and allow the liquids to discharge into the soil outside of
the tank through a system of open-jointed sub-surface pipings or a seepage pit meeting the
requirements of this Code.

SERVICE PIPE – the pipe from the street water main or other source of water supply to the
building served.

SEWAGE – any wastewater containing animal or vegetable matter in suspension or solution

and may include liquids containing chemicals in solution.

SEWER – a pipe or conduit for carrying sewage and wastewater.

SEWERAGE OR SEWERAGE WORKS – a comprehensive term, including all

construction for collection, transportation, pumping, treatment and final disposition of
sewage.

SHAFT – a vertical opening through a building for elevators, dumbwaiters, lights, ventilation
or similar purposes.
SIAMESE CONNECTION – a hose fitting with clapper valves for combining the flow from
two or more lines of hose into a single stream. The inlet fitting of a fire standpipe located
above ground level.

SINK – Also known as Sinker, Washbowl, Hand Basin, Wash Basin and simply Basin is a
bowl-shaped plumbing fixture used for washing hands, dishwashing, and other purposes.

SIPHON – a way that allows liquid to travel upward, above the surface of the origin
reservoir, then downwards to a lower level without using a pump.

SIPHONAGE – a suction created by the flow of liquid in pipes. A pressure less than
atmospheric.

SHALL – the words “shall” denote mandatory acceptation.

SHIELDED COUPLING – an approved elastomeric sealing gasket with an approved outer

shield and a tightening mechanism.

SHOWER BATHS COMPARTMENTS – A enclose compartment containing a shower

head, valves and faucets.

SHOWER RECEPTOR – A one-piece base (floor) unit used as a shower area to catch
water coming from the shower and direct it to a certain drain.

SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING – a building designed as a home by the owner of such

building, and shall be the only dwelling located on a parcel of ground with the usual
accessory building.

SIZE AND TYPE OF TUBING – See diameter.

SLIP JOINT – an adjustable tubing connection, consisting of a compression nut, a friction

ring, and a compression washer, designed to fit a threaded adapter fitting or a standard taper
pipe thread.

SLOPE – See grade.

SOIL – Refers to waste discharge from water closet, urinals or other fixtures having similar
functions.

SOIL PIPE – any pipe, which conveys the discharge of water close, urinal or fixtures having
similar functions, with or without the discharges from other fixtures to the building drain or
building sewer.

SOIL STACK PIPE – a vertical soil pipe conveying fecal matter and wastewater.

SOLDERED JOINT – a pipe joint obtained by joining metal parts with metallic mixtures or
alloys which melt at a temperature below 427 degrees centigrade and above 149 degrees
centigrade.

SPIGOT – the end of a pipe which fits into a bell. Also, a word used synonymously with
faucet.
SPECIAL WASTES – wastes which require some special methods of handling such as the
use of indirect waste piping and receptors; corrosion-resistant piping, sand, oil or grease
interceptors; condensers or other pretreatment facilities.

STACK – the vertical main of a system of soil, waste or vent pipings extending through one
or more stories and extended thru the roof.

STANDPIPE – a vertical pipe, or a reservoir, into which water is pumped to give it at a

head, classified as:

1. Wet Standpipe – water pressure is maintained at all times;

2. Automatic Standpipe System – Operates automatically by opening a hose valve;
3. Manually-Operated Standpipe System – Remote Control device at each hose
station; and
4. Dry Standpipe – Having no permanent water inside the pipe.

STRAINER – Pipe fitting through which liquid is passed for purification, filtering or
separation from solid matter.

STORM WATER – That portion of the rainfall or other precipitation which runs off over
the earth surface after a storm.

STOREY – That portion of a building included between the upper surface of any floor and
the upper surface of the floor next above.

SUBSOIL DRAIN – an underground drainpipe that receives only sub-surface or seepage

water and convey it to a sump for disposal by gravity flow or by lift pump.

STACK VENT – the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain
connected to the stack. The uppermost end above the roof is called Stack Vent Through Roof
(SVTR).

SUMPS – an approved tank or pit which receives sewage or wastewater and is located below
the normal grade of the gravity system and must be emptied by mechanical means.

SUPPORTS – supports, hangers, anchors, brackets, cradles are devices for holding and
securing pipes and fixtures to walls, ceiling, floors or structural members.

SURFACE WATERS – that portion of rainfall or other precipitation which runs off over the
surface of the ground.

SWIMMING POOL – a water basin used for swimming designed to accommodate many
bathers at a time and properly connected to a disposal system, fills and draws water supply or
provided with approved water purification and recirculation system.

TAILPIECE – the pipe or tubing that connects the outlet of a plumbing fixture to the trap.

TAPED TEE – a tee with the branch tapped to received a threaded pipe or fittings.

TRAP – a fitting or device designed and constructed to provide, when properly vented, a
liquid seal which prevents the backflow of foul air or methane gas without materially
affecting the flow of sewage or wastewater through it.
TRAP ARM – that portion of a fixture drain between a trap and the vent.

TRAP SEAL – the maximum vertical depth of liquid trat a trap will retain. Measured
between the crown weir and the top of the dip of the trap.

TUB – Is a container for holding water in which a person or animal may bathe.

TUBE – A cylindrical conduit or conductor conforming to the particular dimension know as

“tube sizes” and denoted by its outside diameter or O.D.

UNCONFINED SPACE – a room spaced having a volume equal to at least 1.4cu.m. of the
aggregate input rating of the fuel-burning appliance installed in that space. Rooms adjacent
and open to the space where the appliance is installed, through openings not furnished with
doors, are considered a part of unconfined space.

UNIT VENT – an arrangement of venting so installed that one vent pipe will serve two (2)
traps.

URINAL – A sanitary plumbing fixture design for urination only.

VACUUM – an air pressure less than the atmospheric. Also, implies siphonage in piping
system.

VACUUM BREAKER – A threaded device that attaches to a faucet or similar fixtures. It

prevents water from flowing backward into the plumbing.

VALVE – A device for controlling the passage of fluid or air through a pipe, duct, etc.,
especially an automatic device allowing movement in one direction only

VENT PIPE – a pipe or opening used for ensuring the circulation of air in a plumbing
system and for relieving the negative pressure exerted on trap seals.

VENT STACK – The vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing circulation of air to
and from any part of the soil, waste of the drainage system.

VENT SYSTEM – pipes installed to provide flow of air to or from a drainage system or to
provide a circulation or air within such system to protect trap seals from siphonage and
backpressure.

VERTICAL VENT PIPE – any pipe or fitting installed in a vertical position or which forms
an angle of not more than forty-five (45) degrees with the vertical line.

WASTE – See Liquid Waste and Industrial Waste.

WASTE PIPE – a pipe, which conveys only wastewater or liquid waste, free of fecal matter.

WATER CLOSET – A water-flushed plumbing fixture designed to received human

excrement directly from the user of fixture.

WATER CYCLE – The cycle of processes by which water circulates between the earth’s
ocean, atmosphere, and land, involving precipitation as rain and snow, drainage in streams
and rivers, and return to the atmosphere by evaporation and transpiration.
WATER-DISTRIBUTING PIPE – A pipe which conveys potable water from the building
supply pipe to the plumbing fixtures and other water outlets.

WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM – A system to deliver water to consumer with

appropriate quality, quantity and pressure. Used to describe collectively the facilities used to
supply water from its source to the point of usage.

WATER MAIN – or street main is the water-supply pipe for public or community use.

WATER METER – Measures the quantity (volume) of water that passes through a pipe or
other outlet.

WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM – of a building or premises consist of the water service pipe,
water supply line, water distributing pipe and the necessary branch pipes, fittings, valves and
all appurtenances required for the supply of potable water.

WATER TREATMENT – a device which conditions or treats water supply to improve

water quality, remove suspended solids by filtration.

WET VENT – That portion of a vent pipe through where waste water also flows through.

WELDED JOINT OR SEAM – any joint or seam obtained by the joining of metal parts in a
plastic molten state.

WELDER, PIPELINE – a person who specializes in the welding of pipes and holds a valid
certificate of competency from a recognized testing agency, based on the requirements of the
regulating authority.

WELL – 1A hole sunk into the ground as a source of water, oil, natural gas or other fluids.
2
Hole which has been dug, bored, driven or drilled into the ground for the purpose of
extracting water is a well.

WYE – a hose connection with two-gated outlets permitting two connections of the same or
smaller coupling diameter to be taken from a single supply line. Also, a pipe fitting of three
branches that for the letter “Wye”.

YARD – an open, unoccupied space, other than a court, unobstructed from the ground to the
sky, except where specifically provided in this Code.

YOKE VENT – a pipe connecting upward from a soil or waste stack below the floor and
below horizontal connection to adjacent vent stack at a point above the floor and higher than
highest spill level of fixtures for preventing pressure changes in the stacks.
 CHAPTER 3
GENERAL REGULATION

SECTION 301 – DISPOSAL OF WASTEWATER

Disposal of sewage, human excrement or other waste waters should only be through
and by means of an approved Excreta and Storm Drainage System.

SECTION 302 – GRADE OF HORIZONTAL DRAINAGE PIPING

Horizontal drainage pipes = 2% : 20mm/m : ¼’’ per foot
If pipe ≥ 102mm it can be = 1% : 10mm/m : 1⁄8’’ per foot

SECTION 303 – CHANGES IN DIRECTION OF DRAINAGE FLOW

303.1 Change in direction of drainage piping shall be made by the use of approved
pipe fittings and shall be of the angles presented by a 22.5˚ bend, 45˚, 60˚ or
other approved fittings of longer sweeps
303.2 Horizontal drainage lines connecting to a vertical stack shall enter through 45˚
or 60˚ wye branches, combination wye and 1/8 bend branches, sanitary tee or
other approved fittings of longer sweeps. No fitting having more than one inlet
at the same level shall be used unless such fitting is constructed so that the
discharge from one inlet cannot readily enter into the other inlet. Vertical
installation of double sanitary tees may be used when the barrel of the fitting is
at least two (2) pipe sizes larger than the largest side inlet. Nominal pipe sizes
recognized for these purposes are: 51, 63, 76, 89, 102, 114, 127 & 152mm
diameters.
303.3 Horizontal drainage lines connecting to other horizontal drainage lines shall
enter through 45˚ wye branches, combination wye and 1/8 bend branches or
other approved fittings of longer sweeps.
303.4 Vertical drainage lines connecting to horizontal drainage line shall enter
through 45˚branches, or other approved fittings or longer sweep. Sixty (60)
degree branches or offsets may be used only when installed in a true vertical
position.

SECTION 304 – CONNECTION TO PLUMBING SYSTEM REQUIRED

All plumbing fixtures, drains, appurtenances and appliances used to receive or
discharge liquid wastes or sewage, shall be connected properly to the drainage system
of the building and premises, in accordance with the requirement of this Code.

SECTION 305 – SEWER REQUIRED

305.1 Every building where plumbing fixtures are installed shall have a sewer
service connection to a public or private sewer system except as provided in
Subsection 305.2 of this section.
305.2 When a Public or Private Sewer is not available for use, excreta drainage
piping from buildings and premises shall be connected to an approved Private
Sewage Disposal System.
SECTION 306 – DAMAGE TO DRAINAGE SYSTEM OR PUBLIC SEWER
306.1 It shall be unlawful for any person to deposit, by whatever means into any
plumbing fixture, floor drain, interceptor, sump, receptacle or device,
connected to the excreta and storm drainage system, public sewer, private
sewer, septic tank or cesspool, any ashes, cinders, solids, rags, flammable,
poisonous or explosive liquids or gases; oils, greases or other things which
would or could cause damage to the drainage system or public sewer.
306.2 Roofs, inner courts, vent shafts, light wells or similar areas having rainwater
drains shall discharge outside of the building or to the gutter, and shall not be
connected to the soil and waste pipe systems.
SECTION 307 – INDUSTRIAL WASTES
307.1 Waste detrimental to the public sewer system or to the functioning of the
sewage treatment plant shall be treated and disposed of as found necessary and
as directed by the Administrative Authority or other authorities having
jurisdiction.
307.2 Sewage or other waste from a plumbing system which may be deleterious to
surface or subsurface waters, shall not be discharged into the ground or into
any waterway unless first rendered innocuous through subjection to some
acceptable form of treatment.
SECTION 308 – LOCATION
308.1 Except as otherwise provided in this Code, no excreta plumbing system, storm
drainage system, building drain, building sewer, private sewage disposal
system or parts thereof, shall be located in any lot other than the lot where the
site of the building, structure or premises are served by such facilities.
308.2 No subdivision, sale, or transfer of ownership of existing property shall be
made in such a manner the area, clearance, and access requirements of this
Code are decreased or impaired.
SECTION 309 – IMPROPER LOCATION
Piping, fixtures or equipment shall not be so located to interfere with the
normal function or use thereof or with the normal operation and use of
windows, doors or other required facilities.
SECTION 310 – WORKMANSHIP
310.1 All designs, construction and workmanships shall be in conformity with
accepted engineering practices and shall be of such character as to secure the
results sought to be obtained by this Code.
310.2 It shall be unlawful to conceal cracks, holes, or other imperfection in materials
by welding, brazing or soldering the defects or by using therein or thereon any
paint, wax, tar or other sealing or repair agents.
310.3 Burred ends of all pipes and tubing shall be reamed to the full bore of the pipe
or tubing and all chips left inside the pipe or tubing shall be removed.
SECTION 311 – PROHIBITED FITTINGS AND PRACTICES
311.1 No double hub fittings for lead-caulked joint in vertical position, single or
double tee branch; single or double tapped tee branch, side inlet quarter bend,
running thread, band or saddle shall be used as a drainage fitting, except that a
double hub sanitary tapped tee may be used on vertical lines as a fixture
connection. (Approved stainless steel bands with neoprene gaskets for jointing
of hub less cast iron soil pipes are acceptable for use).
 PLUMBING FIXTURES
(CHAPTER 4)

CLASSIFICATION
SOIL SCULLERY BATHING
Bathtubs
Water Closets Kitchen Bidets
Foot/Silt Tub
Lavatories
Slop Sinks Sink
Shower Compartments
Shower Receptors
Urinals Laundry Tubs
Shower Tub

Section 401 Materials General Requirement: Plumbing Fixtures shall be manufactured of

dense, durable non-absorbent materials and must have smooth, impervious surfaces, free
from unnecessary concealed fouling surfaces (Principle No. 7). All porcelain enamel surfaces
on plumbing fixtures shall be acid resistant.

Section 402 Material Alternatives: 1 Special-use may be made of soapstone, chemical

stoneware or may be lined with lead, copper base alloy, nickel-copper alloy, corrosion-
resisting steel or other materials specially suited for the use which the fixture is intended. 2
Restaurant kitchen and other special-use sinks may be made of approved-type bonderized and
galvanized sheet steel of not less than Gauge No. 16 U.S. B&S or 1.6mm thick.

Section 403 Overflows: When any fixture is provided with an overflow outlet, the waste
shall be so arranged that the standing water inside the fixture cannot rise inside the overflow
way when the stopper is closed nor remain inside the overflow way when the fixture is
empty. The overflow pipe from a fixture shall be connected to the house or inlet side of the
fixture trap. Water closet or Urinal flush tank shall discharge into the bowls or wares served
by them, but it shall be unlawful to connect such overflows with any other part of the
drainage system.
Section 404 Strainers and Connections:
404.1 Strainers – All plumbing fixtures other than water closets and siphon action
washdown or blowout urinals, shall be equipped with approved strainers having an
approved waterway area. The strainer serving shower drains shall have waterway
equivalent to the area of the tailpiece.
404.2 Connections – Fixtures having concealed slip joint connection shall be
provided with an access panel or utility at least 0.3m in its least dimension and
arranged so that the connections are readily accessible for inspection and repair.
404.3 (Tailpiece) – Continuous waste and fixture tailpiece shall be constructed from
the materials specified on Table 14-4 of this Code for drainage piping, provided
however, that such connections were exposed or accessible may be of seamless drawn
brass not less than Gauge No. 20 B&S or 0.8mm in thickness. Each such tailpiece,
continuous waste or waste and overflow shall not be less than 38mm O.D. for sinks,
dishwashers, laundry tubs, bathtubs, urinals and similar fixtures, and not less than
32mm O.D. for lavatories, drinking fountains, and similar small fixtures. Brass or
copper shall not be used for urinal tailpiece or trap.
404.4 Approve wye or other directional-type branch fittings shall be installed in all
continuous wastes connecting or receiving the discharge from food waste disposal
units, dishwashers, clothes washers or other forced-discharge fixture or appliances.
No dishwasher drain shall be connected to a sink tailpiece, continuous waste or trap
on the discharge side of a food waste disposal unit.

Section 406 Special Fixtures and Specialties:

406.1 Water Connections – Baptistries, ornamental and lily ponds, aquaria,
ornamental fountain basins and similar constructions when provided with water
supplies connected to potable water supply lines shall be protected from back
siphonage.
406.2 Wastewater Drain – for “Sacrarium” cup sink at church altar and Baptistries
font outlet shall discharge direct to the ground and not connected to the sanitary
drainage system.
406.3 Approved – Specialties requiring water supply and waste discharge
connections shall be submitted for approval of the Administrative Authority.

Section 407 Installation:

407.1 Cleaning – Plumbing fixture shall be installed in a manner to provide easy
access for repair and cleaning. Where practical, all pipes from fixtures shall be run
parallel and close to the nearest wall or building line.
407.2 Joints – Where a fixture comes in contact with the wall or floor, the joint
between the fixture and wall or floor shall be made watertight.
407.3 Securing Fixtures – Floor outlet or floor mounted fixture shall be rigidly
secured on the drainage connection and floor when so designed with the use of
adequately-sized screws or expansion bolts of copper, brass or other equally
corrosion-resistant material.
407.4 Wall-Hung Fixtures – Wall-hung fixtures shall be rigidly supported by metal
supporting members or chairs so that no bending or pullout strain is transmitted to the
wall. Approved non-corrosive screws or bolts shall secure water closet and urinal
flash tanks and similar appurtenances.
407.5 Setting – Fixtures shall be set level in proper alignment with reference to
adjacent walls
407.6 Supply Fittings – The supply lines or fittings for every plumbing fixture shall
be installed to prevent backflow.
Section 408 Urinals: An approved type vacuum breaker shall protect every water supply to a
urinal or other approved backflow prevention device as describe in Table 14-4.

408.1 Automatic Flushing Tanks – Tanks flushing more than one urinal shall be
automatic in operation and of sufficient capacity to provide the necessary volume of
water to flush and properly cleanse all urinals simultaneously. Automatically
controlled flushometer valves may be substituted for automatic flush tanks.
408.2 Flushometer Valves – No manually controlled flushometer valve shall be used
to flush more than one urinal and each such urinal flushometer valve shall be
approved, self-closing type discharging a predetermined quantity of water.

FLUSHOMETER

407.5 Setting
Urinal Center to Side Wall = 0.3m
Urinal center to Center = 0.6m
 I. Types of Urinals

WALL HUNG STALL

PEDESTAL THROUGH

WATER CLOSET

Section 401: Water closet bowls for public use shall be the elongated bowl types equipped
with open-front seats. Water closet seats shall be of smooth non-absorbent material and
properly sized for the water closet bowl used.
Section 405.1: Use of Water Closets having invisible seals or unventilated space or having
walls, which are not thoroughly wash out at each discharge, shall be prohibited. Any water
closet which might permit siphonage of the contents of the bowl back into the water tank,
shall be prohibited as well as trough urinals. Drinking fountains shall not be installed inside
public toilet rooms.

Section 407.5 Setting

Water closet center to side wall: minimum of 0.375m
Water closet center to center: minimum of 0.75m

I. Types of Water Closet

Wash Down – The water from the tank pours into the bowl through the open rim and washes
the material down the outlet. It is a “pushing” action only, and does not evacuate the bowl.
Waste is simply “pushed” by free flowing water out of the trapway (usually 4” in diameter).
These water closets have small (4”x5”) water surface areas in the bowls that are deep down in
the bowl. This is the least efficient and most noisy type but lowest in cost.
Reverse Trap – Water enters through a rim punchings and through a jet that fills the rear
trapway completely, creating a siphon action and resulting in quick withdrawal of water from
the bowl. A water jet is located at the inlet of the trapway. Most of the bowl surface is
covered with water. This model is efficient but moderately noisy. Its cost is reasonably low.

Siphon Jet – Water enters through rim punchings and jets placed in an up-leg of the rear trap,
filling the trapway and creating an instant siphon action without rise of water level. The result
is quick water withdrawal. Large water surface provides an efficient and clean operation.
With quiet flushing action and moderate cost, this is the most popular residential model.

Siphon Vortex – Water enters through diagonal punching around the rim of the bowl,
creating a vortex that draws the water down into the rear trap with a swirling action that
scours the walls of the bowl. Water strikes two parallel ridges and folds over forming a jet,
producing siphonic action. Large water surface provides a very efficient and clean process,
and the flushing is extremely quiet. This model is mostly of one-piece construction with a
low profile. Expensive.
Direct Flush Valve – Flushing action is obtained directly from a flush valve connected into
the bowl.

Pressure/Tankless – Strong flushing action is created by a jet of water directed into the rim
and jet. The force of the jet draws the bowl contents into the rear trap. It doesn’t use siphonic
action but relies on the driving force of jet action. A flush valve 25psi is needed with 1.5”
inlet spud. Large water surface and large trapway size make the model efficient and suitable
for commercial use. Flushing is very noise. Expensive.

Pressure/Tank – A steel tank is located inside the china tank. Uses pressure from the water
supply system. A 1.5” water supply line provides 25psi pressure, compressing trapped air in
the tank. When flushed the compressed air forces that water run out. The bowl is designed to
accept the torrent of water. The crest of the surging water empties the bowl through the
enlarge trap. Large water surface makes this model efficient. Design features make it suitable
for residential use. Flushing is very noisy. Low water consumption (1.5gpf) helps conserve
water. Expensive.
II. Types of Flush Tank for Water Closet

1. Close Couple Flush Tank – The flush tank and the bowl are closely coupled
together where the ceramic cistern (flush tank) sits directly upon the toilet pan itself.

2. High Flush Tank – The flush tank is located above the bowl.

3. Integral Flush tank – The tank is integrated with the bowl.

4. Low Flush Tank – A flush tank that uses less water than traditional tanks. A full
flush typically uses 1.6 US gallons and 1.28 US gallons for a reduce flush.
III. Parts of Water Closet
SINK

I. TYPES OF SINK

Kitchen Sink – Used for washing dishes and preparing food.

a. Single

b. Double

c. Triple

d. Shallow and Deep

Laundry Tub (Utility Sink) – a rugged, large-capacity sink used primarily for
cleaning or soaking clothing.

Scrub Sink – usually located in the operating room in a hospital.

Slop Sink – Specifically design for messy task. This is where janitor clean and leaves
their mops.

Bar Sink (Island Sink/ Prep Sink/ Entertainment Sink) – Offers a place for
convenient hand washing or rising to occur during food preparation and can
streamline the workflow in the kitchen.

Lavatories – A fixed bowl or basin with running water and drainpipe for washing.
a. Pedestal

b. Wall Hung
BIDETS

Section 407.5 Setting

Water closet center to side wall: minimum of 0.375m
Water closet center to center: minimum of 0.75m

SECTION 409 Floor Drains and Shower Stalls

FLOOR DRAINS

409.1 Floor drains shall be considered plumbing fixture and each drain shall be
provided with an approved-type and hinge strainer plate having the sum of the areas
of the small holes of the strainer plate or gross waterway is equivalent to the cross-
sectional area of the tailpiece. Floor drains, floor receptors and shower drains shall be
of an approved-type, the body provided with integrally-cast water-stop outside flange
around the body at mid depth and with an inside caulk outlet to provide a watertight
joint in the floor.
409.6 Floors of public shower rooms shall have a non-skid surface and shall be
drained in such a manner that wastewater from one bather will not pass over areas
occupied by other bathers. Gutters in public or gang shower rooms shall have rounded
corners for easy cleaning and shall be sloped not less than two (2) percent towards the
drain. Drains in gutters shall be spaced not more than 4.9 meters apart.
SHOWER RECEPTORS

409.2 Shower receptors are plumbing fixtures and shall conform to the general
requirements therefore contained in Table 14-4. Each shower receptor shall be
constructed of vitrified china or earthenware, ceramic tile, porcelain-enameled metal
or of such other material as may be acceptable to the Administrative Authority. No
shower receptors shall be installed unless it conforms to acceptable standards as
required by Chapter 14 of this code or until a specification or a prototype or both of
such receptor is first submitted to the Administrative Authority for approval.
409.3 Each shower receptor shall be of an approved type and be constructed to have a
finished dam, curb or threshold which is at least 25.4mm lower than the outside floor
at the sides and back of such receptor. In no case shall any dam or threshold be less
than 51mm nor more than 228mm in depth in depth when measured from the top of
the dam or threshold to the drain. The finished floor of the receptor shall slope
uniformly from the sides towards the drain not less than 2% or 20mm/m or more than
4% or 40mm/m. Thresholds shall be of sufficient width to accommodate a minimum
559mm wide door.
Exception: Special shower compartments for wheelchair use may eliminate
the curb or threshold. The required slope and depth shall be maintained from the door
entry to the drain opening. The minimum distance between the door or entry to the
drain opening shall be 1.2meters.
409.5 When the construction of on-site built-up shower receptors is permitted by the
Administrative Authority, one of the following means shall be employed:
409.5.1 Shower Receptors built directly on the ground:
Shower receptors built directly on the ground shall be watertight and
shall be constructed from approved-type dense, non-absorbent and
non-corrosive materials. Each receptor shall be adequately reinforced,
provided with an approved flanged floor drain designed to make a
watertight joint in the floor, and shall have smooth, impervious and
durable surfaces.
409.5.2 Shower Receptors built above ground:
When shower receptors are built above ground the sub-floor and rough
side of walls to a height of no less than 76mm above the top of the
finished dam or threshold shall be first lined with sheet lead or copper
or with other durable and watertight materials.
SHOWER BATH COMPARTMENTS

409.4 All shower compartments, regardless of shape, shall have a minimum finished
interior area of 0.6sq.m., and shall also be capable of encompassing a 762mm
diameter circle. The minimum area and dimension shall be maintained from a point
above the shower drain outlet to a height of 1.78 meters with no protrusions other than
the fixture valve or valves, shower head and safety grab bars or rails.
409.7 In the absence of local regulations, shower occupancies other than dwelling unit
served by individual water heaters shall be provided with an individual shower control
valves of the pressure balance or the thermostatic mixing valve type. Multiple or gang
showers may be controlled by a master thermostatic mixing valve in lieu of
individually controlled pressure balance or thermostatic mixing valves. Limit stops
shall be provided on such valves and shall be adjusted to deliver hot water with a
maximum temperature of 48.88˚C.

Section 410 Plumbing Fixtures Required

Each building shall be provided with sanitary facilities as prescribe by the National
Building Code or other Authorities having jurisdiction. In the absence of local
requirements, a recommended list of minimum facilities for various occupancies is
given on Table 4-1 of this Code.
Section 411 Whirlpool Bathtubs
Unless otherwise listed, all whirlpool bathtubs shall comply with the following
requirements:

a. A removable panel of sufficient dimension shall be provided for access to the

pump.
b. The circulation pump shall be located above the crown weir of the trap.
c. The pump and the circulation piping shall be self-draining to minimize water
retention.
d. Suction fittings on whirlpool bathtubs shall comply with the listed standards.

I. Typical Bathtub Parts

II. Whirlpool Bathtub Diagram

 TABLE 4-1
MINIMUM PLUMBING FACILITIES

Bathtubs
or
Urinals
Water Closet Lavatories (Fixture per Showers Drinking
Type of Building or Occupancy (Fixture per
(Fixture per Person) Person) (Fixture Fountains
Person)
per
Person)
Male Female Male Person

1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 0: 1 – 9 1: 1 – 40
2: 16 – 35 3: 16 – 35 1: 10 – 50
3: 36 – 55 4: 36 – 55
Assembly Places (Theaters,
Auditoriums, Convention Halls,
Add one (1)
Etc.) for permanent employee use
fixture for
Over 55, add 1 fixture for
each
each additional 40 persons
additional 50
males

Male Female Male Person Person

3: 1 – 50 1: 1 – 100 1: 1 – 200 1 per 75

1: 1 – 100
4: 51 – 100 2: 101 – 200 2: 201 – 400
Assembly Places (Theaters, 2: 101 – 200
8: 101 – 200 3: 201 – 400 3: 401 – 750
Auditoriums, Convention Halls, 3: 201 – 400
11: 201 – 400 4: 401 – 600
Etc.) for public use
Over 600,
Over 400, add 1 fixture for Over 750, add 1 fixture for
add 1 fixture
each additional 500 males each additional 500 person
for each
 and 2 for each additional 300 additional
females 500 males
Male Female Male Persons Persons

1 per 10 1 per 8 1 per 25 1 per 12 1 per 8

Dormitories
Over 150, Over 150, add 1 fixture for
School or Labor Add 1 fixture for each
add 1 fixture each additional 20 males and
additional 25 males over 10
for each 1 fixture for each 15
and 1 for each additional 20
additional 50 additional females
females over 8
males
Male Female Male Persons Persons

1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 1 per 50 1 per 40 1 per 8

2: 16 – 35 3: 16 – 35
Dormitories for staff use
3: 36 – 55 4: 36 – 55

Over 55, add 1 fixture for

each additional 40 persons

1 per dwelling 1 per dwelling 1 per

1 per dwelling or apartment 1 per dwelling or apartment dwelling
Dwellings
unit unit 1 per
Single Dwelling
dwelling
Multiple Dwelling or
or
Department
apartment
unit

Hospital Waiting Rooms 1 per room 1 per room 1 per 75

Hospital for employee use Male Female Male Male Female

 1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 0: 1 – 9 1 per 40 1 per 40 1 per 75
2: 16 – 35 2: 16 – 35 1: 10 – 50
3: 36 – 55 3: 36 – 55

Add 1 fixture Over 150, add 1 fixture for

Over 55, add 1 fixture for for each each additional 20 males and
each additional 40 persons additional 50 1 for each additional 15
males females
Hospitals
Individual room 1 per person 1 per room 1 per room
1 per 10 patients 1 per 20 1 per 75
Ward room 1 per 8 patients patients

Male Female Male Male Female Persons

1 per 25 1 per 20 0: 1 – 9 1 per 10 1 per 10 1 per 8 1 per 75

Industrial other than Hospitals or 1: 10 – 50
Penal Institutions (on each
occupied floor) Add 1 fixture
for each
additional 50
males
Male Female Male Male Female Persons

1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 0: 1 – 9 1 per 40 1 per 40 1 per 8 1 per 75

Industrial other than Hospitals or
2: 16 – 35 3: 16 – 35 1: 10 – 50
Penal Institutions (on each
3: 36 – 55 4: 36 – 55
occupied floor) for employee use
Over 55, add 1 fixture for Add 1 fixture
each additional 40 persons for each
 additional 50
males
Male Female Male Male Female

1: 1 – 100 1: 1 – 200 1: 1 – 100 1: 1 – 200 1: 1 – 200 1 per 75

2: 101 – 200 2: 201 – 400 2: 101 – 200 2: 201 – 400 2: 201 – 400
3: 201 – 400 3: 401 – 750 3: 201 – 400 3: 401 – 750 3: 401 - 750
4: 401 – 600
Office or Public Buildings
Over 600,
Over 55, add 1 fixture for add 1 fixture
Over 750, add 1 fixture for
each additional 500 males for each
each additional 500 persons
and 2 for each 55 females additional
300 males
Male Female Male Male Female

1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 0: 1 – 9 1 per 40 1 per 40 1 per 75

Office or Public Buildings 2: 16 – 35 3: 16 – 35 1: 10 – 50
(For Employee use) 3: 36 – 55 4: 36 – 55
Add 1 fixture
for each
Over 55, add 1 fixture for additional 50
each additional 40 persons males
Male Female Male Male Female

1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 0: 1 – 9 1 per 40 1 per 40 1 per 75

2: 16 – 35 3: 16 – 35 1: 10 – 50
Penal Institutions – For employee 3: 36 – 55 4: 36 – 55
use
Add 1 fixture
Over 55, add 1 fixture for for each
each additional 40 persons additional 50
males
Penal Institutions – For prison use
1 per cell 1 per cell
Cell 1 per cell
block floor
1 per exercise 1 per exercise room 1 per
room exercise
Exercise Room 1 per exercise room
room

Male Female Male Male Female

1: 1 – 50 1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 50 1: 1 – 150 1: 1 – 150
2: 51 – 150 3: 16 – 35 2: 151 – 200 2: 151 – 200
Restaurants, Pubs and Lounges 3: 150 – 300 4: 36 – 55 Over 150, 3: 201 – 400 3: 201 – 400
add 1 fixture
for each
Over 300, add 1 fixture for Over 400, add 1 fixture for
additional
each additional 200 persons each additional 400 persons
150 males
Male Female Male Male Female

1: 1 – 15 1: 1 – 15 1 per 50 1 per 40 1 per 40

Schools – For staff use 2: 16 – 35 3: 16 – 35
All schools 3: 36 – 55 4: 36 – 55

Over 55, add 1 fixture for

each additional 40 persons
Schools – For student use Male Female Male Male Female

1: 1 – 20 1: 1 – 20 1: 1 – 150 1: 1 – 25
2: 21 – 50 2: 21 – 50 2: 26 – 50 2: 26 – 50 1 per 75
Nursery
Over 50, add 1 fixture for Over 50, add 1 fixture for
each additional 50 persons each additional 50 persons
Elementary
 1 per 30 1 per 25 1 per 75 1 per 35 1 per 35 1 per 75

Secondary 1 per 40 1 per 30 1 per 35 1 per 40 1 per 30 1 per 75

Others (Colleges, Universities,

1 per 40 1 per 30 1 per 35 1 per 40 1 per 30 1 per 75
Adult Centers, Etc.)
Male Female Male
Worship places
1 per 75 1 per 25 1 per 2 water closets 1 per 75
Educational and 1 per 125
2: 76 – 125
Activities Unit 2: 126 – 250
3: 126 – 250

Male Female Male

Worship places
Principal
1 per 150 1 per 75 1 per 150 1 per 2 water closets 1 per 75

Note: Whenever urinals are provided, one (1) water closet is subtracted from the number specified on the table, except that the number of water
closets in such cases shall not be reduced to less than two-thirds (2/3) of the minimum specified.
 INSPECTION AND TEST
(CHAPTER 5)

Section 501 Inspection and Testing

501.1 Inspection
501.1.1 Scope – All new plumbing work should be inspected in accordance
with approved plans and specification.
501.1.2 Advance Notice – Notification not less than 3 days should be given
prior to inspection.
501.1.3 Responsibility – It shall be the duty of the holder of a permit to make
sure that the work will stand the tests prescribe before giving notification and
provide all the testing equipment and facilities required.
501.1.4 Re-testing – if the Administrative Authority finds that the work will
not pass the test, necessary correction shall be made, and the work shall then
be resubmitted for another test or inspection. The Permittee shall be assessed
an appropriate fee appearance.
501.1.5 Test – Test shall be conducted in the presence of the Administrative
Authority or of his duly appointed representative.
501.1.6 Corrections – Notices of correction or violation shall be given to the
Permittee or Permitee’s authorized representative.
501.1.7 Approval – Upon successful final test of the work, a certificate of
approval should be given to the Permittee.
501.1.8 Covering or Use – No plumbing or drainage system, building sewer,
private sewer disposal system or part thereof, shall be covered, concealed or
put into use until it has been inspected, tested and approved as prescribe in the
Code.
501.1.9 Uncovering – All plumbing works covered before the installation is
inspection, should be uncovered.
501.2 Testing
501.2.1 Responsibility – All things necessary for inspection should be
provided by the Permittee.
501.2.2 Media – The piping of plumbing, drainage and venting system shall
be tested with water or air.
501.2.3 Water Test – All openings in the piping shall be tightly closed, except
the highest opening, and the system filled with water to the point of overflow.
No section shall be tested with less than a 3m head of water. The water shall
be kept for at least 15 minutes before the inspection starts. The system shall be
tight at all joints.
501.2.4 Air Test – Is made by attaching an air compressor testing apparatus to
any suitable opening, and after closing all other inlets and outlets of the
system. Air is forced into the pipe system until there is a uniform gauge
pressure of 34.5Kpa or sufficient to balance a column of mercury 254mm in
height. The pressure should be held without introduction of additional air for a
period of at least fifteen (15) minutes.
501.2.5 Building Sewer Test – Building sewers shall be tested by plugging
the end of the building sewer at its point of connection with the public sewer
or private sewage disposal system and completely filling the building sewer
with water from the lowest to the highest point thereof, or by approve
equivalent low pressure air test. The building sewer shall be watertight at all
points.
501.2.6 Water Piping – Upon completion of a section or of the entire hot and
cold water supply systems, it shall be tested and proved tight under a water
pressure not less than the working pressure under which it is to be used plus
50%. The water used for test shall be obtained from a potable source of
 supply. A 34.5Kpa air pressure may be substituted for the water test. In either
method of test, the piping shall withstand the test without leaking for a period
of not less than fifteen (15) minutes.
501.2.7 Defective System – An air test shall be used in testing the condition of
the drainage or plumbing system that has a reason to believe that it has
become defective.
501.2.8 Moved Structures – All parts of the plumbing system of any building
or part thereof that are moved from one location to another, shall be
completely tested as prescribe for new work as described.
501.2.9 Protectively Coated Pipe – Inspection and repair shall conform to
Section 501 with special care to avoid damage on the outside coating of the
pipe and the proper restoration of damaged portions.
501.2.10 Test for Shower Receptors – Shower receptors shall be tested for
water-tightness by filling water to the level of the rough threshold. The test
plug shall be so placed that both upper and under sides of the sub-pan shall be
subjected to the test at the point where it is clamped to the drain.

Section 502 Maintenance: The owner or his agent shall maintain the plumbing and drainage
system of his premises under the jurisdiction of the plumbing authority in a sanitary and safe
operating condition.

Section 503 Existing Construction: No provision of this Code shall be deemed to require a
change in any portion of a plumbing or drainage system or any other work regulated by this
Code in or on existing building or lot when such work was installed and is maintained in
accordance with law in effect prior to the effective date of this Code, except when any such
plumbing or drainage system or other work regulated by this Code is determined by the
Administrative Authority to be in fact dangerous, unsafe, insanitary, or a nuisance and a
menace to life, health or property.

Section 504 Health and Safety: Whenever compliance with all the provision of this Code
fails to eliminate or alleviate a nuisance, or other dangerous or insanitary condition which
involve public or safety hazard, the Owner or his agent shall install such additional plumbing
and drainage facilities or shall make such repairs or alteration as may be ordered by the
plumbing authority.
 WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
(CHAPTER 6)

Water Distribution System – A system to deliver water to consumer with appropriate

quality, quantity and pressure. Used to describe collectively the facilities used to supply water
from its source to the point of usage.

I. Defects in Water Distribution System

Friction Head Loss – Friction occurs when liquid flowing through the pipes make
contact with the pipe enclosures, thus reducing the speed of water flow. Greater
friction head loss with longer pipes, small diameter pipes and high number of valves
and fittings.
Water Hammer (Hydraulic Transients) – A knocking in the pipes cause when
faucets in the lower levels are shut off. The force decelerating water is caused the
pipes to shake and rattle.
Expansion/Contraction – Pipes expand and contracts due to continuous changes in
temperature.
Back Siphonage – Contaminated or polluted water from plumbing fixtures or vessel
to water supply pipe due to a negative pressure.

II. Types of Public Water Distribution

Indirect Pressure Distribution – Water is taken from a drilled well or underground
water.
Direct Pressure Distribution – Water is obtained through a large intake installed on the
lake basin and extended into deep water.

III. Water Supply System

1. Cold Water System
Purpose:
- Drinking Purpose
- Cooking Purpose
- Sanitary Purpose
- Washing Purpose
- Gardening
1.1 Types of Cold Distribution
a. Direct System (Upfeed System) – Water is provided by the city
water companies using normal pressure from public water main.
Advantages:
- Eliminates extra cost of pumps and tanks.
Disadvantages:
- Pressure from water main is inadequate to supply tall
buildings.
- Water supply is affected during peak load hours.
b. Air Pressure System (Hydro Pneumatic System) – When
pressure supplied by city water supply is not strong enough.
Compressed air is used to raise and push water into the system.
Advantages:
- With compact pumping unit.
- Sanitary due to air tight water chamber.
- Economical (smaller pipe diameter)
- Less initial construction & maintenance cost
Disadvantages:
- Water supply is affected by loss of pressure inside the tank in
case of power interruptions.

c. Downfeed (Overhead Feed) or Gravity System – Water is

pumped into a large tank on top of the building and is distributed to
the fixtures by means of gravity.
Advantages:
- Water is not affected by peak load hour.
- Not affected by power interruptions.
- Time needed to replace broken parts does not affect water
supply.
Disadvantages:
- Water is subject to contamination
- High maintenance cost.
- Occupies valuable space.
- Requires stronger foundation and other structure to carry
additional load of tank and water.
1.2 Parts of Cold Water Distribution System
a. Service Pipe – pipe from street water main or other source of water supply
to the building served.
b. Control and Valve – Used for control, isolation, and repair of the water
distribution system.
c. Water Meter – Device used to measure in liters or gallons the amount of
water that passes through the water service.
d. Horizontal Supply Main – The principal water distribution pipe running
from the water meter from which the various branches and risers to the
fixtures are taken.
e. Fixture Branch – The water supply pipe between the fixture supply pipe
and the water distributing pipe.
f. Fixture Supply – The water supply pipe connecting the fixture with the
fixture branch.
g. Riser – A water supply pipe extending vertically to one full story or more
to convey water into pipe branches or plumbing fixtures.
h. Storage Tank – Storage of water.
2. Hot Water System
2.1 Types of Hot Water Distribution
a. Upfeed and Gravity Return System – With a continuing network of
pipes to provide constant circulation of water. Hot water rises
on its own and does not need any pump for circulation. Large
pipe is installed at the top of the riser and the
diminishing sizes passes through the lower floors of the building.

b. Downfeed and Gravity Return System – Hot water rises on to the

highest point of the plumbing system and travels to the fixtures via
gravity (closes pipe system). Larger pipe is installed at the bottom of
the riser and the diminishing sizes passes through the upper floors of
the building.
 c. Pump Circuit System – For a more efficient circulation of hot water
to the upper floor levels of multi-storey buildings.

2.2 Hot Water Consumption

Gallons per Person per Hour

Kind of Building
(gal/person/hr)
School Building 2 to 3
Office Building 4 to 5
Factories 4 to 6
Apartment Buildings 8
Hotels 8 to 10
Residentials 10

2.3 Working Load of Hot Water System

Working Load of Hot Water System Average Working Load

School, Office and Industrial Types 25%
Apartment and Residences 35%
Hotels and Restaurants 50%

2.4 Types of Water Heating System

a. Hot Water Space Heating System – Water is confined within a
system at low temperature
b. Hot Water Supply System – Not a closed system which operate
on much higher temperature.
WATER TANK

I. Types of Domestic Tanks

Cistern Tank – Made in concrete, underground and connected with pump

Gravity Supply Tanks / Overhead Tanks – Relies on gravity to supply water to

fixture below. Usually made of galvanized steel, stainless steel, or reinforced
concrete, it can come in various shape and sizes.
Main Components
a. Supply Pipe
b. Inlet
c. Overflow Pipe
d. Drip Pan
e. Gate Valve
 Pneumatic Water Tank / Pressure Tank – 1Creates water pressure by using
compressed air to bear down on the water. When a valve is opened, water is pushed out by
the compressed air in the tank. 2 Used in the air pressure system, often used with a pump and
also makes use of a pressure relief valve, which relieves pressure automatically if necessary.

Hot Water Tanks

Range Boiler – Small hot water tank (30cm-60cm diameter; 180cm max
length). Made of galvanized steel sheet, copper or stainless steel. Standard
working pressure limit is 85 to 150 psi.
 Storage Boiler – Large hot water tank (60-130cm diameter; 5m max length).
Made of heavy-duty material sheets applied with rust proof paint. Standard
working pressure limit is 65 to 100psi.

WATER CYCLE

Water Cycle – The cycle of processes by which water circulates between the earth’s ocean,
atmosphere, and land, involving precipitation as rain and snow, drainage in streams and
rivers, and return to the atmosphere by evaporation and transpiration.

I. Sources of Water
Rain Water – Collected from roofs or buildings and special water sheds and
stored in cistern or ponds.
Advantage:
- Water is soft and pure and is suitable for the hot water supply system.
Disadvantage:
- Only a source during the wet season.
- Storage become a breeding place for mosquitoes.
- Roofs may not be clean.
 Natural Surface Water – Obtained from ponds, lakes and rivers.
Advantage:
- Usually has an abundant supply.
- Requires less treatment because of natural filtering.
Disadvantage:
- May have an organic matter and chemical elements, usually treatment
is suggested.
Ground Water – From springs and wells and is the principal source of
water for domestic used in most rural areas.
Advantage:
- Usually easy to acquire in large quantities.
- Used for irrigation, industrial purpose and when treated for
community supply.
Disadvantage:
- Contains a large number of bacteria, organic and
inorganic substances
- Purification and treatment is necessary.

II. Physical Properties of Water

a. Surface Tension – The ability to stick itself together and pull itself
together.
b. Heat Absorption Capacity – The ability to absorb the heat without
becoming warmer.
c. Capillarity – The ability to climb up a surface against the pull of gravity.
d. Dissolving Ability – Known as the “universal solvent”

III. WATER QUALITY PROBLEMS AND THEIR CORRECTION

PROBLEMS CAUSE EFFECTS CORRECTION

Passing the water
Corrosion of non- through a bed of
Entrance of Carbon ferrous pipes. crushed limestone to
Acidity
dioxide and Oxygen. Rusting and clogging achieve alkalinity.
of steel pipes. Adding sodium
silicate.
Boiling
Presence of Clogging of pipes.
Introduction of water
Hardness magnesium and Impaired laundry and
softeners made up of
calcium salts. cooking.
zeolite.
Silt or mud in surface Discoloration.
Turbidity Filtration.
of water. Bad Taste.
Chlorination.
Presence of Iron and Discoloration of
Color Oxidizing filter.
manganese. fixtures and laundry.
Contamination by
Pollution organic matter or Disease. Chlorination.
sewage.
 IV. Water Treatment and Purification

OBJECTIONABLE ELEMENT REASONS FOR TREATMENT

Calcium, Magnesium Produces hardness
Sulfur Bad Taste and odor, highly corrosive to
plumbing, stains clothing, etc.
Salt Bad taste, highly corrosive
Iron Stain Clothing and Plumbing fixtures,
interferes with water softeners, iron bacteria
clogs pipes.
Pathogenic germs Unhealthy; may cause poliomyelitis.
Acid Highly corrosive, picks up lead, stains
clothing.
Algae Bad taste and odor.
Carbon Dioxide, Hydrogen Sulfide Aeration
Suspended Material Coagulation and Settling Process
Bacteria Chemical and Sand filtration
Calcium and Magnesium Addition of water softeners
Iron Iron filters
Sulfur Chlorination
Pathogenic Germs Disinfection
Acid Marble or limestone filtration

Aeration – Spraying the water into the atmosphere through jets or passing it
over rough surfaces to absorb additional oxygen for better taste and remove
entrained noxious gases such as carbon dioxide or hydrogen sulfide.
Coagulation and Precipitation – Addition of coagulants, such as ferrous
sulfate and lime, to the water which cause the larger suspended particles to
form a gelatinous mass which precipitates readily. The precipitate is gathered
in large dumps and disposed.

Flocculation – Process by which small sediments particles which do not settle

will combine together to form a larger particles which can be
removed by sedimentation.

Filtration – Water is passed through layers of sand and gravel in concrete

basin in order to remove the finer suspended particles.

Sedimentation – Water is pass through basins so sediments can settle through

a period of time.
 Chlorination – Water is injected with hypo-chlorite or chlorine gas to kill the
harmful bacteria.

V. Water Treatment Diagram

VALVE

I. Different Types of Valves

Gate Valve/Full Way Valve – Use mainly to completely close or completely open
the water line (does not control flow of water). Best suited to the main supply pump
and pump lines wherein operation is infrequent.

Ball Valve – Ball valves have a ball with a hole. Operated through a lever handle,
when the ball valve is closed it forms an excellent seal, although no water control can
be obtained when using ball valves.

Globe Valve / Stop Valve – Controls the flow of water with a movable spindle. Can
reduce water pressure (throttling). Only one side of the valve is an inlet.
Check Valve – Main function is to prevent reversal flow (backflow) in the line
Swing Check Valve

Lift Check Valve

Vertical Check Valve

 Horizontal Check Valve

Angle Valve – Used to make a 90° turn in a line to reduces number of joints.

Foot Valve/ Retention Valve – Located at the lower ends of the pumps. Used mainly
to prevent loss of priming of the pumps.

Safety Valve – Used in water system, heating system, compressed air lines and other
pipe lines with excessive pressure.
Butterfly Valve – Have a disc allowing the flow of water to be regulated.
Butterfly valves will normally reduce the pressure after the valve. When the
butterfly valve is open, the disc is parallel to the pipe and when closed the disc
is perpendicular to the pipe.

Pressure Reducing Valves – Used to reduce the water pressure to the desired
or accepted limits. They normally have a spring and diaphragm that is adjusted
to certain limits depending on the pressure of the water being served.

Air Release Valve – Air release valve are installed at each high point of a
pressure pipeline. Air release valves are installed to eliminate or mitigate the
water hammer issues.
Section 605 - Valves
Section 605.1 – Valves up to and including 51mm in size shall be brass or other approved
materials. Sizes over 51mm may have cast iron or brass bodies. Each gate valve shall be a
full way type with working parts of non-corrosive materials.
Section 605.2 – A full way gate valve controlling all outlets shall be installed on the
discharge side of each water meter and on each unmetered water supply.
Section 605.3 – A valve use to control two (2) or more openings shall be a full way gate
valve.
Section 605.4 – Control gate valves shall be installed before each water-supplied appliance
slip joint, supply piping for non-metallic fixture and appliance.

FAUCET / BIBBS

I. Type of Faucet / Bibbs

Compression Cock – Operates by the compression of a soft packing upon a metal
sheet.

Hose Bibb – has grooves fit for a hose.

Ball Faucet – Constructed with a ball connected to the handle.

Key Cock – Operates with a round tapering plug ground to fit a metal sheet.
WELL

I. Types of Well

Dug Well / Shallow Well – A well that is less than 50ft (15m) deep.

Deep Well – A well in which the water level is at a depth exceeding 22ft (6.71m)
beyond which the ordinary suction pump does not operate satisfactorily.

Jetted Well – Use of extreme water pressure so as not to affect existing foundations
in the vicinity. Used only where ground is relatively soft, hence sometimes referred to
as “Sand-Point Wells”.

Driven Well – Dug with a sharp pointed hollow slotted iron rod and well screen.
Depths at 10-15m.

Bored Well – Constructed using an auger driven in by hand or with power tools.
Seldom hand driven below 15m, but can reach 40+ meters with power tools.

Drilled Well – Used for drilling oil and mining. Can reach up to 1000m.

II. Locating a Well

a. Location must not be less than 100ft away from such pollution sources.
b. Locate on higher ground.
c. The deeper the well, the better for natural filtration.

III. Common Source of Contamination

a. Septic Tank/Leaching Field.
b. Livestock feedlots.
PUMPS

I. Classification of Pumps
1. Positive Displacement Pump – Makes a fluid move by trapping a fixed amount
and forcing (displacing) that trapped volume into the discharge pipe. It produces
high head, low flow rate and suitable for high viscosity application.
1.1 Reciprocating Pumps – A class of positive-displacement pumps that
includes the piston pump, plunger pump and diaphragm pump.
Advantages:
- It creates large pressure than a centrifugal pump.
- It is best for high-pressure requirement application.
- Has an easy operation.
- Has a self-priming capability.
- Has a high efficiency
- Can also use for air compression.
Disadvantages:
- These pumps are not best for high flow applications because it produces
a low flow rate.
- It has a high initial cost because it uses a large number of components.
- It can’t deliver a continuous supply of water or other fluids.
- Due to large number of components, it has a high weight.
- The friction between the piston and cylinder is high; therefore, a
reciprocating pump has high wear and tear.
- Has a high maintenance cost.
1.1.1 Piston Pump – A type of Positive Displacement Pump where
the high-pressure seal reciprocates with the piston (water is
sucked into a sealed vacuum by use of a piston). Piston pumps
can be used to moved liquids or compress gases.
1.1.1.1 Single Action (Water is drawn in with only one action)

1.1.1.2 Double Action (Water is drawn in with either stroke)

 1.1.1.3 Duplex or Twin Piston Pump

1.1.2 Plunger Pump – A type of positive-displacement pump where

the high-pressure seal is stationary and a smooth cylindrical
plunger slides through the seal.

1.1.3 Diaphragm Pump (Membrane Pump) – Uses a combination of

the reciprocating action of a rubber, thermoplastic or Teflon
diaphragm and suitable valves on either side of the diaphragm
(check valve, butterfly valve, flap valves, or any other form of
shut-off valves) to pump a fluid. It is design for pumping sludge,
slurries and liquids.
1.2 Rotary Pumps – Rotate or replaces the fluid by orbiting and rotatory
movement. There are self-priming pumps and offer an almost constant
delivery rate regardless of the pressure. They are manufactured with a
minimum clearance between the stationary and rotating components for
minimizing the leakage from the pressure side to the suction side. These
pumps work at low speeds to sustain these clearances. Can discharge from
900 to 1200 GPM. More efficient for viscous fluids.

1.2.1 Rotary Lobe – The rotor of this type of pump does not touch the
housing during its working. They are frequently utilized in the
applications such as biopharmaceutical manufacturing, beverage
and food processing, and hygienic processing industries.

1.2.2 Screw Pumps – A singular kind of positive displacement rotary

pump in which liquid flow through the pump element is axial.
 1.2.3 Progressive Cavity Pump – These types of pumps are specially
designed for the transportation of viscous and abrasive liquids
with a high content of air, fibers, and solids.

1.3 Pneumatic Pumps – This pump provides a stable flow for mixing and
measuring. It also has the capacity of pumping various liquids such as
toothpaste and multiple chemicals. In these pumps, pressurized air is used
to move the fluid.

2. Dynamic Pumps – A pump in which kinetic energy is added to the fluid by

increasing the flow of velocity. This increase in energy is converted to gain in
potential energy (pressure) when the velocity is reduced prior to or as the flow
exits pump into discharge pipe. It uses centrifugal force for the pumping of fluid.
2.1 Centrifugal Pump – Used to transport fluids by the conversion of
rotational kinetic energy to the hydrodynamic energy of the fluid flow.
Water is drawn into the pump and discharged with a centrifugal force.
2.1.1 Radial Flow Pumps – A centrifugal pumps in which the fluid
handled leaves the impeller in a radial direction. The radial
outward movement of the flow in the impeller causes higher
centrifugal forces, which translate into higher discharge pressure
but typically smaller volume flow rates.

2.1.2 Axial Flow Pump – or AFP, is a common type of pump that

essentially consist of a propeller in a pipe. The propeller can be
driven directly by a sealed motor in the pipe or by electric motor
or petrol/diesel engines mounted to the pipe from the outside or
by a right-angle drive shaft that pierces the pipe.
2.1.3 Mixed Flow Pump – Centrifugal pump with a mixed flow
impeller. The impellers of mixed flow pumps with a low specific
speed are combined with an annular or volute casing; those of
mixed flow pumps with a higher specific speed are combined
with a diffuser and a tubular casing.

2.1.4 Jet pumps – Are centrifugal pumps typically used for drawing
water up from a well.

2.1.4.1 Types of Jet Pumps

a. Miniature Jet Pump – Use for small application.
b. Shallow Well Jet Pump – Are used in residential well.
c. Deep Well Jet Pump – Are used in high volume
application.
d. Convertible Jet Pump – Can be used in deep well and
shallow well.
 2.1.5 Turbine Pumps – Are centrifugal pumps used for large
application because of their multiple impellers. Turbine pumps
can discharge up to 2000 GPM

2.2 Vertical Centrifugal Pumps – single stage centrifugal pumps that are
specifically design for vertical installation. Used for low viscosity fluids.
 2.2.1 Submersible Pumps – Submersible pumps are designed to be
fully immersible within a tank or other media storage receptacle.
Many common types of pumps can be designed by
manufacturers to be submersible.

2.2.2 Sump Pumps – are used in application where excess water must
be pumped away from a particular area. Category the
encompasses a number of styles of pumps that are used to pump
out collected fluid.

Section 601 – Running Water Required

1. All plumbing fixtures shall be provided with adequate supply of potable running
water without danger of backflow or cross-connection.
2. Water closets and Urinals shall be flushed by means of an approved flush tank or
flushometer valve.
3. Faucets and diverters shall be connected to the hot and cold-water distribution
supplies so that the hot water supply is located at left side of the combination
fittings.
Section 602 – Unlawful Connections
- No installation of potable water supply piping shall be made in such manner that it
will be possible for contaminated water to enter any fixture by reason of back
siphonage.
- No person shall make a connection or allow one to exist between pipes or conduits
carrying domestic water supplied by any public or private water service system unless
there is an approved backflow prevention device.
- No water piping supplied by any private water supply system shall be interconnected
to an approved city water supply system with approval.
Section 603.2 Backflow Prevention Devices, Assemblies and Methods
Air Gap - an unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the
lowest opening from any pipe or faucet conveying potable water to the flood-level rim
of any tank, vat or fixture.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) – Consist of a body, a checking member and
an atmospheric opening.
Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assembly (DC) – Consist of two
independently acting internally or externally loaded check valves, four properly
located test cocks with connectors and two isolation gate valves.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker Backflow Prevention Assembly (PVB) – Consist of a
loaded air inlet valve, an internally loaded check valve, two properly located test
cocks and two isolation gate valves.
Reduce Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly (RP) – Consist of two
independently acting internally loaded check valves, a differential pressure relief
valve, four properly located test cocks and two isolation gate valves.

Table 6-1
Minimum Air Gaps for Water Distribution

Item When not affected When affected by

Fixtures
No. by side walls (mm) side walls (mm)
Lavatories and other fixtures with
1 effective openings not greater than 25 (1”) 38 (1.5”)
13mm (1//2’’) in diameter.
Sinks, laundry trays, gooseneck bath
faucets and other fixtures with
2 38 (1.5”) 57 (2.25”)
effective openings not greater than
19mm (3/4”) in diameter.
Over rim bath fillers and other
3 fixtures with effective opening not 51 (2”) 76 (3”)
greater than 25mm (1”) in diameter
Two (2) times Three (3) times
Effective Openings not greater than
4 diameter of effective diameter of effective
25mm in diameter
opening opening

Section 604 – Materials

Water Pressure Pipes
- Brass - Copper
- Centrifugal Cast Iron (CCI) - B & S and F & F ends
- Ductile Cast Iron (DCI) - Galvanized Wrought Iron
- Galvanized Steel - Other approved PE & PVC
- CPVC
Note: Water pipes and fittings with a lead content that exceed eight (8) percent
shall be prohibited and not used in potable piping system.

Section 607 – Water Pressure, Pressure Regulators and Pressure Relief Valves
Inadequate Water Pressure = < 103Kpa
Excessive Water Pressure = > 551Kpa
Note: Pressure Relief Valve should be set at a pressure of not more than
1033Kpa.
Section 608 – Installation, Inspection and Testing
Section 608.1 Installation – Burred ends shall be reamed to the full bore of the pipe or tube.
All water service yard piping shall be at least 0.3m below the finish ground level.
Section 608.2 Water pipes shall not be run or laid in the same trench as building sewer or
storm drainage pipings constructed of clay materials not approved for use withing the
building unless both of the following conditions are met:
608.2.1 The bottom of the water pipe at all points shall be at least 0.3m above the top
of the sewer or drain line;
608.2.2 The water pipe shall be placed on a solid shelf excavated at one side of the
common trench with a minimum clear horizontal distance between the sides of at least
0.3m from the side of the sewer or drain line and the water line.
608.2.3 Water pipes crossing sewer or drainage piping constructed of clay or
materials, not approved for use within building, shall be laid a minimum of 0.3m
above the sewer or drain pipe.
 SANITARY DRAINAGE SYSTEM

I. General Rules in Designing the Drainage System

- The pipes should take the shortest possible route to the house sewer or the
terminating point of the sanitary system.
- Control components such as clean-outs, traps and vents, should be located
strategically so as to ensure efficient circulation.

II. Subsystem of the Sanitary System

1. Waste Collection System
2. Ventilation System

III. Parts of the Sanitary Drainage System

Waste Pipe – Conveys only wastewater or liquid waste free of fecal matter.
Vent Pipe – Used for ensuring the circulation of air in a plumbing system and for
relieving the negative pressure exerted on trap seals.
Trap – A fitting or devise design to and constructed to provide, when properly
vented, a liquid seal which prevents the backflow of foul air and methane gas without
materially affecting the flow of sewage or wastewater through it.
Stack – The vertical main of a system of soil, waste or vent piping extending through
one or more stories and extended thru the roof.
Branch – Any part of the piping system other than a main, riser or stack.
House/Building Drain – Part of the lowest horizontal piping of a plumbing system
which receives the discharges from the soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside of a
building and conveys it to the house sewer outside of the building.
House Sewer – Extend from the house drain at a point 0.6m from the outside face of
the foundation wall of a building to the junction with the street sewer or to any point
of discharge, and conveying the drainage of one building site.

IV. Change in Direction of Sanitary Drainage Line

Horizontal to Horizontal Change in Direction

- Use 45° wye branches, combination type wye – 1/8” bend branches, or other
approved fittings of longer sweep.

Wye and 1/8 Bend Branches 45˚ Wye Branch Combination Wye and 1/8 Bend
Branches
Vertical to Horizontal Change in Direction
- Used 45° wye branches or other approved fittings of longer sweep. Sixty-degree
(60˚) branches or offsets may be used only when installed in a true vertical position.

45˚ Wye Branch

Horizontal to Vertical Change in Direction

- Used 45° or 60° wye branches, combination wye – 1/8” bend branches, sanitary
tapped tee branches, or other approved fitting of equivalent sweep. Double Sanitary
Tees may be used when the barrel of the fitting is at least two pipe (2) sizes largen
than the largest inlet (pipe sizes recognized for this purpose are 51, 64, 76, 89, 102,
114, 127 and 152mm dia.)
V. Unit of Measurements of Sizes of Sanitary Drainage Lines
- The size of waste pipes or soil pipes depend on the amount of waste it carries.
- A lavatory discharges 0.47 lit/sec or 28.3 lit/min (7.5 gallons per min or 1
cu.ft./min), which is equivalent to the Fixture Unit (F.U.)
- The F.U. rating of plumbing fixture is based on the size of required trap.

VI. Maximum Trap Loading

ITEM NO. PIPE SIZE FIXTURE UNIT

1 32mm (1.25”) 1
2 38mm (1.5”) 3
3 51mm (2”) 4
4 76mm (3”) 6
5 102mm (4”) 8
Exception: On self-service laundries
Notes:
1. Capacity over 3.15 L/s shall be determined by the Administrative Authority.
2. For a continuous flow into a drainage system, such as from sump pump or ejector,
air-conditioning equipment or similar devices, two (2) fixture units shall be
allowed for every 0.063 L/s of flow.
3. 1 gpm = 0.063 L/s

VII. Discharge Capacity

Item No. Liters/Sec (GPM) Fixture Unit

1 Up to 0.47 L/s (Up to 7.5 1
gpm)
2 0.50 to 0.95 L/s (8 – 15 gpm) 2
3 1 to 1.89 L/s (16 to 30 gpm) 4
4 1.95o 3.15 (31 to 6
50gpm)

VIII. Minimum Slope of Sanitary Drainage Lines

IX. Types of Permissible Traps

Common P-Trap – Used for lavatories, kitchen sinks, laundry tubs and urinals.
Materials commonly used for the P-Trap: Nickel, Chrome plated brass, Galvanized
malleable copper and PVC.

Deep Seal P-Trap – Water seal is about twice the

size of the common P-trap. Used for extreme conditions because resealing quality is
greater.
 Stand Trap – Used for fixtures such as slop sinks that are usually built in low in the
ground, leaving a very little space for a foundation and a trap. Serves as a water seal
and structural support for the fixture.

Running Trap – Used within the line of the house drain.

Drum Trap – Has a large diameter (around 0.16m). Used for fixtures that discharge
large amount of water (bathtubs, shower or floor drains).

X. Types of Prohibited Traps

a. Traps with movable parts or concealed interior partitions.
 b. No fixture shall be double trapped.
c. The S – Trap.
d. Used before traps.
e. Had to connect to a ventilation line.

XI. Minimum Size of traps for Common Plumbing Fixtures

Item No. Fixture Trap and Trap Arm Drainage Fixture

Size Units
1 Lavatory / Wash
32mm 1
Basin (single)
2 Bathtubs 38mm 2
3 Bidets 38mm 2
4 Sink (Residential) 38mm 2
5 Floor Drains 51mm 2
6 Shower, Single Stall 51mm 2
7 Urinal, Wall
mounted, integral 51mm 3
gap
8 Water Closet (private
76mm 4
installation)
9 Water Closet (Public
76mm 6
installation)

XII. Horizontal Distance of Trap Arms

Trap Arm Diameter Distance to Vent

32mm 0.76m
38mm 1.07m
51mm 1.52m
76mm 1.83m
102mm and larger 3.05m
Note:
- In no case shall the trap distance be less than 2 times the diameter of the trap arm
- The developed length of the trap arm (measured from the top of closet ring to inner
edge of vent) of a water closet or similar fixture shall not exceed 1.8m
- For trap arm 76mm diameter or larger, a cleanout is required for a change of
direction of greater than 22.5°

XIII. INDUSTRIAL INTERCEPTORS (CLARIFIERS) AND SEPARATORS

Interceptors – (a device designed and installed to separate and retain deleterious,
hazardous or undesirable matter form normal wastes and permits normal sewage or
liquid wastes to discharge into the disposal terminal by gravity) shall have a water
seal of not less than 152mm deep.
- Each interceptor shall be properly vented.
- Slaughter houses, packing establishment, and any establishment which discharges
wastewater with considerable amount of grease, hairs, feathers, etc. shall drain
through a screening device and thence into a grease interceptor.
- Auto was racks and/or floor or slabs used for cleaning machinery or machine parts
shall be adequately protected against storm or surface water and shall drain into an
interceptor which will separate oil and grease before the effluent reaches the public
stream.
XIV. Clean-outs Required
- At the upper terminal of every horizontal sewer or waste line.
- At every run of piping more than 15 meter (50ft) in total developed length.
- At every 15m (50ft) of total developed length or a fraction thereof.
- Additional clean-out shall be provided on a horizontal line with an aggregate offset
angle exceeding 135°.
- Inside the building near connection between the building drain and the building
sewer or installed out the building at the lower end of the building drain and extended
to grade.
XV. Clean-outs not required
- On a horizontal drain less than 1.5m in length unless such lines is serving sinks or
urinals.
- On short horizontal drainage pipe installed at a slope of 72 deg or less from the
vertical line (or at an angle of 1/5 bend).

XVI. Sized of Clean-outs

Size of Pipe Size of Cleanout Threads per 25.4mm

38mm 38mm 11-1/2
51mm 38mm 11-1/2
64mm 64mm 8
76mm 64mm 8
102mm and larger 89mm 8

XVII. Installation of Clean-outs

- Each clean-out shall be installed so it opens with the direction of flow or at right angles to
the direction of flow except in the case of a wye branch.
- Each 90° clean-out extensions shall be constructed from a wye fitting or an approved fitting
of equivalent sweep.
- Each clean-out 51mm or less shall have a front clearance of not less than 305mm; those
51mm or more shall have a front clearance of 450mm.
- Clean-outs in underfloor piping shall be extended to or above finish floor or shall be
extended outside the building when there is less than 450mm vertical clearance or 750mm
horizontal clearance to the means of access.
- No underfloor clean-out for residential occupancies shall be located more than 6.1m from
an access door, trap door or crawl hole.

XVIII. Maximum Number of Drainage Fixture Units for Horizontal Fixture Branches
and Stacks

Total Total for stack Total for stack

Total for
discharge into of three branch greater than
Pipe Dia. horizontal
one branch intervals or three branch
branch
interval less intervals
38mm (1.5”) 3 2 4 8
51mm (2”) 6 6 10 24
63mm (2.5”) 12 9 20 42
75mm (3”) 20 20 48 72
101mm (4”) 160 90 240 500
126mm (5”) 360 200 540 1,100
152mm (6”) 620 350 960 1,900
203mm (8”) 1,400 600 2,200 3,600
254mm (10”) 2,500 1,000 3,800 5,600
305mm (12”) 3,900 1,500 6,000 8,400
381mm (15”)3 7,000 Note C Note C Note C

XIX. Sanitary System Problems

1. Trap Seal Loss – Direct effect of the minus and plus pressure inside the system
due to inadequate ventilation of traps. Attributed the following conditions
 Siphonage – This is caused by a moving plug or charge of water running out
of a steep-sided sanitary appliance such as wash basin.
How to Prevent: Ventilation in the system.

Back Pressure / Compression – Cause by plus or positive pressure.

How to Prevent: By not fitting small or sharp radius bends or having branch
discharge pipes connected near to the base of a discharge stack.
Capillary Attraction – Occurs when a piece of porous material such as threads or
string from a mop or dishcloth are deposited into the water seal and over the outlet
invert of a trap. This is mostly commonly happened to appliances such as kitchen or
cleaners sink.
How to Prevent: By regular cleaning or by laying a loose mesh strainer into the
waste fitting of the appliance.

Evaporation – Cause by extreme temperature (idleness). When trap is not being used,
the rate of water evaporation depends upon the relative humidity of the air in the
room. The rate is approximately 2.55mm per week so a 25mm seal would only last for
10 week.
How to Prevent: By using the trap frequently.

Wind Effect / Wavering Out – The effect of a high-velocity fluctuating wind

passing over the top of an exposed discharge stack ventilating pipe will create varying
air pressure and draughts within the pipework system which may cause trap seals to
fluctuate or waver, resulting in loss of water from the seal.
How to Prevent: By locating the vent terminal position away from exposed locations
and ensuring that a terminal grating is fitted to all ventilating pipe work
 2. Retardation of Flow – Due to the effect of atmospheric pressure and/or gravity.
3. Deterioration of Materials – Due to the formation of acids.

XX. House Drain Appliances

Grease Traps – Used for fixture where grease may be introduced into the drainage or
sewer system in quantities that can affect line stoppage or hinder sewage treatment or
private sewage disposal.

Grease Trap Capacity

Total Number of Fixture Required Rate of Flow Grease retention Capacity

Connected
1 76 L/min 18kg
2 95 L/min 23kg
3 132 L/min 32kg
4 189 L/min 45kg

House Traps – Placed in the house drain immediately inside the foundation of the
wall building.

Drain Tiles – Used to prevent groundwater from seeping through the basement wall
and foundation. Hollow tiles are placed around the perimeter of the foundation where
water is collected; drain tiles are connected to the house drain or sump pit.
Garage Traps / Garage Catch Basin – Operating Principles; trap is filled with water
and located at the lowest point of the garage so it can collect all wastes.

Back Flow / Backwater Valves – Used in house drain to prevent the unlikely
occurrence of back flows. Similar to check valves
Sewage Ejectors – Pumps the waste up from the sump pit to the sewers (which are
usually higher than basement level)
 VENT AND VENTING SYSTEM

Ventilation – Portion of the drainage pipe installation intended to maintain a balanced

atmospheric pressure inside the system
Vent Pipe – a pipe or opening used for ensuring the circulation of air in a plumbing system
and for relieving the negative pressure exerted on trap seals.

I. Type of Vents

a. Main soil and waste vent

- The “backbone” of the entire sanitary system.
- Connected to the main soil and waste stack.
- Continues to the roof, the portion penetrating the roof is call the vent stack through
roof (VSTR)

b. Main Vent/Collecting Vent Line

- The principal artery of the venting system which vent branches are connected.
- Serves as support to the Main Soil and Waste Vent.
c. Individual Vent/ Back Vent
- A pipe installed to vent a fixture trap, that connects with the vent system above the
fixture served or terminates in the open air.

d. Unit, Common or Dual Vent

- An arrangement of venting so installed that one vent pipe serve two (2) traps.

e. Relief Vent
- A vertical line that provides additional circulation of air between the drainage and
vent system or to act as an auxiliary vent on a specially designed system such as a
“yoke vent” connection between the soil and vent stacks.
f. Yoke or By-pass vent
- A pipe connecting upward from a soil or waste stack below the floor and below
horizontal connection to an adjacent vent stack at a point above the floor and higher
than the highest spill level of fixtures for preventing pressure changes in the stack.

g. Circuit Vent / Loop Vent

- A group vent pipe which starts in front of the extreme (highest) fixture connection
on horizontal branch and connects to the vent stack.
- Serves as battery of fixtures.
h. Looped Vent
- A vertical vent connection on a horizontal soil or waste pipe branch at a point
downstream of the last fixture connection and turning to a horizontal line at above the
highest overflow level of the highest fixture connected.
- Used in spaces without partitions.

i. Wet Vent
- That portion of a vent pipe through which waste water also flows through.
 j. Local Vent
- A pipe or shaft to convey foul air from a plumbing fixture or a room to outer air.

k. Dry Vent
- A vent that does not carry liquid waste or water-borne waste.

l. Stack Vent
- The extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain connected
to the stack.

m. Vent Stack
- The vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing circulation of air to and from
any part of the soil, waste of the drainage system. The uppermost end above the roof
has traditionally been referred to as vent stack through roof (VSTR).

n. Stack Vent
- Is the extension of the waste stack to provide venting.

II. Vents Required

- Each trap shall be protected against siphonage and back-pressure through venting.

III. Vents Not Required

- on a primary settling tank interceptor which discharge through a horizontal indirect
waste pipe into a secondary interceptor. The secondary interceptor shall be properly
trapped and vented.
- Traps serving sinks in an island bar counter. Such sink shall discharge by means of
approved indirect waste pipe into a floor sink or other approve type receptor.

IV. Size of Vents

- The sizes of vent piping shall be determined from its length and the total number of
fixture units connected thereto.
- The diameter of an individual vent shall not be less than 32mm (1-1/4”) nor less in
size than one-half (1/2) the diameter of the drain to which it is connected.
V. Grades and Connections of Vents
- All horizontal or branch vents shall be free from drops or sags and shall be graded
and connected to drip back by gravity to the drainage pipe it serves.
- Each vent shall rise vertically 152mm above the highest point level rim of the fixture
served before offsetting horizontally.
- All vent pipes shall extend undiminished in size above the roof or shall be
reconnected to the soil or waste stack vent at a point below the roof. The “vent stack
through roof” (VSTR) shall be increased one (1) pipe size above the connection
between the stack vent and horizontal vent.
- Two (2) fixtures having same level inlet openings, may be served by a common
vertical vent pipe connected to an approved double branch fitting.

VI. Vent Termination

VSTR shall terminate vertically not less than 150mm above the roof nor less than 3
00mm from and vertical surface nearby.
Each vent opening shall terminate
-Not less than 3.0m from any openable window.
- Not less than 0.90m above any openable window
- Not less than 0.90m away from any lot line, alley and street boundary lines.
- Vertical Vent pipes shall extend 3.0m distant from any part of the roof that is used
for human activities and shall extend not less than 2.10m above such roof.

VII. Stack Vent and Relief Vent Required

- Each soil or waste stack extending ten (10) or more storeys above the building drain
shall be served by a parallel vent stack which shall extend undiminished in size from
its upper terminal at the roof and connect to the soil or waste stack at ground level and
at every fifth-floor level with a “yoke vent” at a point below the horizontal soil or
waste branch connection to the stack and at the nearby vent stack above the same
floor to provide relief vent.
- The size of yoke vent shall not be less than in diameter than either the soil stack or
the vent stack whichever is smaller.
- The yoke vent connection at the vent stack shall be placed 1.0m above the floor
level and, by means of a wye branch at the soil stack, shall be placed below the fixture
branch serving that floor.
 SEPTIC TANK

A watertight cover receptacle designed and constructed to receive the discharge of

sewage from a building sewer, separate solids from the liquid, digest organic matter and store
digested solids through a period of detention, and allow the clarified liquids to discharge for
the final disposal.

Sludge – Solid organic matter that are denser than water and settle at the bottom of
the septic tank.
Scum – Lighter organic material that rise to the surface of water.
Effluent – Liquid content of sewage.

I. Bacteria in Septic Tank (Encourage Decomposition)

Aerobic Bacteria – Relies in oxygen to survive.
Anaerobic Bacteria – Can survive in places without oxygen.

II. Minimum Dimension of Septic Tank

Length = 1500mm
Width = 900mm
Depth = 1200mm

III. Minimum Size of Manhole = 500mm x 500mm

IV. Design Criteria of Septic Tank

Plans – Should show all dimensions, reinforcing, structural calculations, and such
other pertinent data as needed.
Quality of Design – Shall be able to produce a clarified effluent of acceptable
standards and shall provide adequate space for sludge and scum accumulations.
Materials – Constructed of durable materials, not subject to excessive corrosion or
decay, shall be water tight. Materials: Cement (Most common) or pre-fabricated cast
iron.
Compartments
First Compartment – Not less than 2/3 capacity of the total capacity of tank;
not less than 2 cu.m. liquid capacity; shall be at least 0.90m width and 1.5m
long; Liquid depth not less than 0.6m nor more than 1.80m.
Secondary Compartment – Maximum capacity of 1/3 of total capacity of
tank; minimum of 1 cu.m. liquid capacity.
Note: In septic tanks, having over 6 cu.m. capacity, the secondary
compartment should be not less than 1.5m in length. Maintain a slope of 1:10
at the bottom of the digestion chamber to collect the sludge and make it easily
accessible from the manhole.
Manholes – With at least two (2) manholes, 508mm in min dimension; one over inlet,
another over outlet. Wherever first compartment exceeds 3.7m in length, an additional
manhole required over the baffle wall.
Size of Pipe inlet and outlet – Diameter size not less than sewer size.
Vertical Legs of Inlet and Outlet – Diameter size not less than sewer pipe nor less
than 104.6mm
Length of Inlet and Outlet – Shall extend 101.6mm above and at least 304.8mm
below the water surface.
Vent Diameter – Equal to the cross-section area of the house sewer.
Air Space – Side walls shall extend 228.6mm above liquid depth. Cover of septic
tank shall be at least 50.8mm above the back vent openings.
Partition (Between Compartments) – An inverted fitting equivalent in size to the
tank inlet but in no case be less than 104.6mm in diameter, shall be installed in the
inlet compartment side of the baffle with the bottom of the fitting placed midway in
the depth of the liquid. Wooden baffles are prohibited.
Structure – Shall be capable of supporting an earth load of not less than 14.4Kpa.
Capacity – The capacity of septic tank is determined by the number of bedrooms or
apartments units in dwelling occupancies; by the estimated waste/sewage design floor
rate for various building occupancies; or by the number of fixture units of all
plumbing fixture; whichever is greater. The capacity of any one septic tank and its
drainage system shall also be limited by soil structure classification in its drainage
field.
Location – Should not be located underneath the house. At least 15m from water
distribution sytem.
 SEWERS

I. 3 Degrees of Grades of Waste Water

Grey Water (or Area Water) – Waste from laundries, wash basins, tub sink and etc.
Black Water – Solid and liquid of human waste.
Storm Rain – Rainwater.

II. Classification of Sewers

Combination Public Sewer – Carries both storm and sanitary wastes.

Storm Sewer – a system designed to carry rainfall runoff and other drainage but not sewage.
Sanitary Sewer – Carries sanitary waste only. Terminates in a modern sewage disposal plant
for treatment. Built at a depth of 3 meter (tributaries).
Types of Sanitary Sewer
1. Tributary Sewer – Termination points of individual units or structures. Usually
round shaped, with diameters between 0.60m to 1.2 meters. Made of vitrified clay
or cement pipes; often installed by the curb line, before the street.
2. Intercepting Sewers/Collecting Sewer – Termination points of tributary sewers.
Placed much lower in the ground, from 4 to 30 meters in depth. Varies in shape
but have a diameter or effective opening ranging from 0.60 to 3 meters. Sloped at
an angle of 1:50 or 2%.
Circular

Ovoid

Oval
III. Sewers Required
- Drainage pipes of all building shall be connected to the public sewer. When not available,
they shall be connected to an approved private sewage disposal system. Public sewer may be
considered as not being available if it is more than 61 meters from any proposed building or
exterior drainage facility.
Exception: Single family dwellings with an existing private sewage disposal system may not
be connected to a new public sewer when no hazard, nuisance or unsanitary condition is
evident and when there is no sufficient grade or fall existing to permit proper drainage flor by
gravity to the public sewer.

IV. Damage to Public/Private Sewage Disposal System

- It is unlawful to discharge any ashes, cinders, solids, rags, flammable, poisonous, explosive
liquids or gases, oils, grease, and other things whatsoever which would cause damage to the
public sewer or private disposal system.
- No rain, surface or subsurface waters shall discharge into any excreta drainage system.
No cesspool and septic tank effluents, seepage pit or under drain system shall be connected to
the excreta building sewer leading to a public sewer main.
- No commercial food waste grinder shall be connected to a private or public sewage disposal
system.

V. Size of Sewer
The minimum size of any building sewer shall be determined on the basis of the total number
of fixture units drained by such sewer. No building sewer shall be smaller than 150mm
diameter nor less in size than the building drain.

VI. Installation of Sewer

- Building sewers shall be run in practical alignment at a uniform slope of not less than 2% or
20mm/m toward the point of disposal.
Exception: When impractical due to depth of street sewer, structural features or to adverse
arrangement of building, to obtain a slope of 2%, sewers 102mm and 152mm in diameter
may have a slope of not less than 1% (10mm/m) and those 203mm diameter and larger may
have a slope of not less than 0.5% (5mm/m)
- No building sewer shall be installed less than 0.6m from the outer face any building
foundation, nor less than 0.30m below the finish surface of the ground.
Location of building sewer in relation to other service is shown below.
- 0.60m from and building or structure.
- 15.2m from water supply and wells.
- 15.2m from streams.
- 0.30m from domestic supply pipes.
- 0.30 m from public water main.
Note: Building sewer or drainage pipe of clay or materials which are not approve for
use within a building shall not be laid in the same trench as water pipes unless:
- The bottom of the water pipe is 0.30m above the top of the sewer pipe.
- The waterpipe is placed on a solid shelf excavated at one side of the common trench
with a minimum horizontal distance of at least 0.3m from the sewer or drain pipe.
- Water pipes crossing sewer or drainage pipe of clay or materials which are not
approved for use within a building shall be laid a minimum of 0.3m clear above the
sewer or drain pipe. Water pipe joint shall be installed not less than 3 meters away
from sewer line in both directions.
 DISPOSAL FIELD

Private sewage disposal system common in rural areas for structures with large adjacent open
fields.

Area – Dependent on the required septic tank capacity or estimated sewage flow rate,
whichever is greater and the type of soil found in the excavation.
Distance from Water Table – No excavation for leach bed shall extend withing 1.5m of the
water table.
With Seepage Pit – Filter material in the trenches shall terminate 1.5m from pit excavation
and the pipe extending from such points to the seepage pit shall be water tight.
Seepage Pit – A loosely lined excavation in the ground, which receives the discharge
of a septic tank; design to permit effluent to seep through pit bottom and sides.
Capacity – Based on the quantity of liquid waste and on the character and porosity of
the surrounding soil.
Size of Seepage Pit – Circular in shape with excavated diameter of not less than 2.2m
and to be lined with clay or concrete brick.
Strength – Brick lining shall have a minimum compressive strength of 17,225 KPa.
Multiple Seepage Pit – Serve through a distribution box or shall be connected in series by
means of a watertight connection. The outlet shall have a vented leg fitting extending
304.8mm below the inlet fitting.
Cesspool
A non-watertight lined excavation in the ground which receives the discharge of a
sanitary drainage system, designed to retain the organic matter but permitting the liquid to
seep through the pit bottom and sides.

Temporary Permits – Temporary expedients pending the construction of a public sewer, so

long as it is established that a public sewer will be available in less than 2 years and the soil
ground water conditions are favorable; As an overflow facility when installed in conjunction
with an existing cesspool; As a means of sewage disposal for limited, minor, or temporary
uses.

Privy (Outside Privy)

Oldest form of disposal organic waste. Consist of a vault constructed of concrete for
the collection of raw sewage and a wooden shelter.

Commercial/Industrial Special Liquid Waste Disposal

Requirements – When liquid waste containing excessive amounts of grease, garbage,
flammable wastes, sand, or other ingredients which may affect the operation of a private
sewage disposal system, an interceptor for such waste shall be installed.
Disposal – Waste from interceptors may be discharge to a septic tank or other primary
system or into a separate disposal system.
Guidelines for Private Sewage Disposal System
1. Location of Sewage Disposal System

Min. Horizontal Building Sewer Septic Tank Disposal Field Seepage Pit or
Distance in Cesspool
Clear Required
From
1. Building or 0.6m 1.5m 2.4m 2.4m
Structures
2. Property Line Clear 1.5m 1.5m 2.4m
Adjoining
Private Property
3. Water Supply 15.2m 15.2m 30.5m 45.7m
Wells
4. Stream 15.2 15.2m 15.2m 30.5m
5. Trees - 3m - 3m
6. Seepage Pits - 1.5m 1.5m 3.7m
or cesspool
7. Disposal 1.5m 1.2m 1.5m
Field
8. On site 0.30m 1.5m 1.5m 1.5m
domestic water
service line
9. Pressure 3m 3m 3m 3m
public water
main

Some Features of STP (Sewage Treatment Plant)

- An aeration system within the tank.
- A submersible mixer to mix the waste.
- A sludge waste pump that aids in clarifying.
- A decanter
- Blowers
- A fully electronic control system and etc.

Two Most Common Types of Municipal Sewage Treatment

1. Activated Sludge Process - Involves a series of stations where the raw sewage must pass
through;
First Phase – get rid of heave materials with the use of three different filter houses.
Second Phase – Clarifies effluent.
Third Phase – Hardens the sludge and converts it to fertilizers.
Produces water with 99-99.5% purity.
 STORM DRAINAGE SYSTEM
I. Rainwater Piping
- Rainwater piping shall not be used as soil, waste and vent pipes.
- Downspout and gutter sizes are based upon the maximum depth of rainfall per hour falling
upon a given roof area in square meters. An average of 102mm/hr rainfall intensity is used
around Metro Manila.
- Downspouts for high-rise buildings shall be stronger pipe materials to resist the high
hydrostatic pressure, they shall be installed within a pipe chase, and have no intermediate
branch from the roof to the ground level.

II. Roof Drains

- Roof drains shall be equipped with dome-type strainers extending 102mm above the surface
of the roof surface. With a minimum total net inlet area of 1.5 times the area of the outlet pipe
to which it is connected.
- Roof deck strainers shall be approved flat-surface type, with a total inlet area not less than 2
times the area of the outlet pipe to which the drain is connected.
- Roof drains passing through building interiors shall be made watertight by the use of C.I.
drain with integrally-cast water stop ring around the outside of the body and placed at mid-
depth of the concrete roof slab and the installation of a clamped suitable flashing material
around the drain.

III. 3 Major System or Collecting Storm Water

1. Independent System/ Separate System
- Brings collected water directly to the sewer reservoirs
2. Combined System
- Combines storm water with sanitary waste
3. Natural System
- Without using any roof gutters or down spout.
- Also when rainwater is collected in cisterns.
IV. Roofing Elements to Collecting Rainwater
Gutter – Usually located along the entire perimeter of the roof.

Downspout – Located every 8 to 10 meters and at every corner of the roof (but to avoid
clogging of pipes it is best to locate them every 4 – 6 meters).

Strainer/Roof Drain – Drain designed to receive water collecting on the surface of a roof
and to discharge it into a downspout. Designed to prevent clogging.

Shoe – At the bottom of the roof leader to direct rain-water towards the nearest catch basin.
Catch Basin – Downspouts should terminate in a catch basin (can serve more than on
downspout). Delivers water to the sewers in the street via gravity.

Storm Line – Connects to each catch basin.

Storm Sewers – Carries only rainwater collected from the storm drain or from the streets.
Require manholes to serve as clean-out and to make sewers accessible for inspection and
repair built at depths of about 2 to 3 meters; diameter ranging from 0.6m to 1.2m

V. Storm Drain Pipe Sizing Formula

Sizing of Downspout
D = 1.86 (A x l)3/8
Sizing of Horizontal Rainwater Pipe
1% D = 1.86√2 (A x l)3/8
𝑙
2% D = 1.86√2 (A x )3/8
√2
𝑙
4% D = 1.86√2 (A x 2)3/8
Sizing Gutter
0.5% D = 4.25 (A x l x √2)3/8
1% D = 4.25 (A x l)3/8
𝑙
2% D = 4.25 (A x )3/8
√2
𝑙 3/8
4% D = 4.25 (A x 2)
Size of Vertical Rain Water Pipe
D = 2.04 (A x l)3/8
Rainwater Harvester (Water Tank Computation)
V = 0.125 x Catchment Area x 25%

VI. Vertical Wall Areas

- Where Vertical walls project above a roof so as to permit storm water to drain to
adjacent roof area below, the total roof area considered may be computer from as
follows:
a. For one (1) wall – add 50% of area of the wall to the roof area.
b. For two (2) adjacent walls – add 35% of the total wall areas to the roof area.
c. Two (2) walls opposite and same height – add no additional area to the roof area.
d. Two (2) wall opposite in different heights – add 50% of wall area above top of
lower wall to the roof area.
e. Three (3) side walls – add 50% of area of the inner wall below the top of the lowest
wall, plus allowance for area of wall above top of the lowest wall.
f. Four (4) side walls – No allowance for wall area below top of lowest wall, add for
areas above top lowest wall.
g. The area of the side of a tall building exposed to rain is taken as one-half of the
gross area.
 TYPES OF PIPES

Cast Iron Soil Pipe (CIS) – Most popular material for drainage systems.

Material: Made from Gray Cast Iron. Produce by smelting iron-carbon alloys that
have a carbon content of more than 2%.
Types:
Standard Pipe – Used for well-fitted hub and spigot connection.
Single Hub Pipe – Recommended when the length of a pipe needed is more than
1.5m long wherein cutting is not necessary.
Double Hub Pipe – Preferred when a piece of pipe needed is shorter than 1.5m long.
When the pipe is cut, both ends have hubs to serve as joint connectors.
Hubless Pipe – Used in lieu if the single hub to do away with caulking if joints.
Color: Varies but Mostly Black
Uses: Non pressurized application such as DWV installation and Storm Drainage.
Connection: Caulked Joints, Compression Gasket (Rubber Gasket) and Shielded
Coupling.
Diameter: 2” to 6” (50mm to 150mm)
Length: 5ft to 10ft (1.5m to 3m)
Standards: ASTM A74-05, CISP Standard 301, AWWA C106-62, BS 78
Rating:
- SV = Service Pipe (for building installation)
- XV = Extra Heavy Pipe (for underground installations)
Support:
- Horizontal Piping (Suspended) = Support each length of pipe by an approved hanger
not more than 18” from the joint.
Advantages:
- Less expensive than copper.
- Durable, conveniently installed (<25 storey).
Disadvantages:
- Heavy
- Affected to some extent by corrosion by acid formed by Carbon Dioxide, Sulphur
Oxide, and Methane Gases that create rust.

Acid Resistant Cast Iron (ARCI)

Material: A cast iron pipe containing between 14.25% – 15% silicon.
Uses: Widely use in chemical laboratories, industries and other installations where
acid wastes are being discharge.
Support: Approved hanger to be place at every joint but not more than 1.5m interval.
Disadvantages:
- Brittle and cracks easily.
Ductile Iron Pipe
Material: Made from cast iron that has been treated while molten to increase its
relatively malleability, making it less brittle and more resistant to fracture than
traditional cast iron.
Color: Varies but Mostly Black
Uses: For underground water and sewer system.
- Raw and Potable Water
- Sewer
- Slurries
- Process chemicals
Connection: Various Mechanical Joints.
Diameter: 3” to 64”
Length: 18ft or 20ft
Standards: ANSI C151, AWWA A21.51
Rating:
Standard Pressure Classes = 150, 200, 250, 300 and 350 psi.
Special Thickness Classes = 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 and 56

Asbestos Cement Pipe (Transite Pipe)

Material: Made of Asbestos fibers and Portland Cement. Thickness of pipe is twice
of that standard cast iron pipe.
Types:
- Non pressure pipes (for sanitary sewers)
- Storm drain pipes
- Transmission pipes (use as water mains)
Color: Concrete Color (Light Gray)
Uses: Water Distribution (main pipes), Soil, waste, ventilation and downspout.
Connection: Collar Joints (Cast Iron Detachable Joints and Coupling Joints)
Diameter: 3” to 13” (76mm to 330mm)
Length: 3m to 4m
Standards: ASTM C428/C428M, AWWA C400-65
Ratings: Classified as Class 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 (kg / cm2).
Advantages: Suited for concrete embedment because of similar properties.
Disadvantages: Soft and Brittle
Bituminous Fiber Sewer (BFS) / Orangeburg Pipe
Material: Bituminized fiber pipe made from layers of ground wood pulp fibers
compressed with and bound by a water-resistant adhesive then impregnated with
liquified coal tar pitch.
Color: Pale Black
Uses: Recommended for house sewer, mostly use in Septic Tanks.
Connection:
Diameter: 2” – 18”
Length: Often sold at 10ft lengths.
Standard:
Advantages:
- Cheapest of all type of pipes.
- Light in weight, slightly flexible and can take slight soil movement without danger
of cracking or pulling out of its joints. It is thus suited for house sewer and septic tank
installations.
Disadvantages:
- May be softened/damage by excessive hot water or chemical flow.

Vitrified Clay Pipe – One of the oldest materials used for sewer lines.

Material: Made from a blend of clay and shale that has been subjected to high
temperature to achieve vitrification, which results in a hard, inert ceramic.
Type:
- Bell & Spigot Pipe (w/ factory applied compression joints)
- Band-Seal Pipe (with rubber compression couplings)
- NO-DIG(R) Pipe (with an elastomeric gasket and stainless-steel collar for a low-
profile compression joint).
Color: Brown
Uses: Sewer and Storm Drains.
Connection: B & S Compression Joints Coupling or Gaskets
Diameter: 4” – 12”
Length: Made in short lengths of 750mm.
Standard: ASTM C700
Advantages:
- Highly resistant to most acids.
- Durable Material for underground installation.
Disadvantages:
- Because it is made of clay, it is brittle and cracks easily when laid on unstable
ground.
Lead Pipes – Oldest pipe used in Plumbing System.
Advantages:
- Highly resistant to acid.
- Suitable for underground installation.
Disadvantages:
- Poisonous and injurious, is therefore not recommended to convey water for human
consumption.

Galvanized Steel
Material: Made from mild carbon steel dipped in molten zinc to prevent aging and
rusting.
Color: Silver / Light Gray
Uses: Overground Installation
- Hot & Cold supply distribution
- Certain drainage application.
- Vent Installation
Connection: Threaded (Screwed) Joints.
Diameter: 10(3/8”), 13(1/2”), 20(3/4”), 25(1”), 32 (1.25”), 38(1.5”), 50(2”), 75(3”)
and 100 (4”) or 15mm to 150mm Nominal Bore.
Length: 3m (10ft) to 12m (40ft)
Standards: ASTM A53, ASME/ANSI B36, BS 1387
Rating:
STD = Standard (Schedule 40)
XS / XH = Extra Strong (Schedule 80)
XSS / XXH = Double Extra Strong
Advantages:
- Inexpensive and Durable
Disadvantages:
- Subject to deposits of salt and lime which can cause FHI.
- Cannot be used in underground applications.

Galvanized Wrought Iron

Advantages:
- Better than steel pipes for plumbing installation.
- More Resistant to acid waste.
Copper Pipe
Type:
- Type K
Material: The heaviest and has thick walls. Can be Rigid or Flexible.
Color: Green Printed
Uses: Can use in underground installations.
- Water supply distribution.
- Fire Protection
- Oil
- HVAC system
Connection: Flared and Compression Connection.
Diameter: ¼” to 12”
Length: 20ft length or 100ft coils.
- Type L
Material: Lighter than Type K and has medium walls. Can be Rigid or
Flexible.
Color: Blue Printed.
Uses:
- Residential water supply lines.
- Radiant heating installations.
- Some HVAC.
Connection: Flared and Compression Connection.
Diameter: ¼” to 12”
Length: 20ft length or 100ft coils.
- Type M
Material: Lighter than Type M and has thin walls. Only Available in Rigid
form.
Color: Red Printed.
Uses:
- Residential water supply lines.
- Radiant heating installations.
Connection: Flared, Compression and Soldered (Sweat) Connection.
Diameter: ¼” to 12”
Length: 20ft length
- Type DWV
Material: Lightest and has thinnest walls. Only Available in Rigid form.
Color: Yellow Printed.
Uses: Only for overground installations.
- DWV Installation.
Connection: Soldered (Sweat) Connection.
Diameter: 1 ¼” to 8”
Length: 10ft or 20ft length
Standard: ASTM B42
Advantages:
- Lightweight
- Durable and extremely corrosive resistant.
- Easy to install.
- Smooth interior surface.
Disadvantages:
- Cost little more than steel pipes.
Brass Pipe – Most expensive pipe.

Materials: Made from an alloy or zinc (15%) and copper (85%).

Color: Bronze
Uses: Superior material for waste and water supply installations.
Connections: Soldered (Sweat) Joints.
Diameter: NB 15mm – 150mm
Length:
Standard: ASTM B135
Rating: C230, C260, C330
Advantages:
- Resistant to acid and has a smooth interior surface.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive

Plastic / Synthetic Pipe – Develop in Germany in 1935.

Material: Made from synthetic resins. Can be Rigid or Flexible.
Rigid Type:
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Can be used up to 140˚F
Color: Mostly Cream or White
Blue (Potable Water)
Red (Fire System)
Yellow (Gas, Oil, Petroleum and Steam)
Purple (Reclaimed Water System)
Green (Sewage and Drain Lines)
Orange (Telecommunications)
Gray (Electrical)
Uses: Vast applications in piping system.
Connection: Solvent Cement, threaded (Screwed) Connection and
Mechanical joints.
Diameter: ½” to 6”
Length: 10ft to 20ft
Standard: ASTM D1785
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40, 80 and 120.
- CL 125, 160, 200 and 315 (psi).
- Series 600 & 1000 PVC
Advantages:
- Less expensive than copper and iron
Disadvantages:
- Easily Crack.
- Not good in higher temperatures.
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (cPVC) – Can be used up to 200˚F
Color: *same as PVC
Uses: Suitable for Hot & Cold-water distribution pipes.
Connection: Solvent Cement, threaded (Screwed) Connections.
Diameter: 1/4” to 12”
Length: 10ft
Standard: ASTM F441
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40 and 80.

Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) – More rigid than PVC

Color:
Artic Blue (Residential)
Dark Grey (Chemical Products in factories)
Yellow (Electrical Wiring and Telephone Cable)
Grey (Agricultural)
Uses: House hold water supply and DWV
Connection: Solvent Cement, threaded (Screwed) and Mechanical
Connections.
Diameter: ½” to 6”
Length: 10ft and 20ft
Standard: ASTM D1785, PNS 65, TS
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40 and 80.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) – A bit stronger than PVC.

Color: Black or Gray
Uses: DWV and sewer applications (overground and underground).
Connection: ABS cement glue (Solvent Cement)
Diameter: 1/4” to 6”
Length: 10ft and 20ft
Standard: ASTM D4673
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40 and 80.
Disadvantages: Will melt on direct sunlight.

Polypropylene (PP) – Has a lower density than ABS. Can be used up to 180˚F.
Material: Lightest weight piping material.
Type:
Type I – Most common. Has better rigidity and strength but lower impact
resistance than type II.
Type II – Has improved toughness than type I.
Color:
Purple (Non-Potable Water)
Uses:
- Use extensively in HVAC applications.
- Chemical Drainage Applications.
- Industrial processes
- High purity water
- Gravity sewer system
Connection: Heat fusion and Mechanical connection.
Diameter: ½” to 40”
Length: 20ft lengths
Standard: ASTM F2389
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40 and 80.
Styrene Rubber Plastic (SR)
Material: A plastic-rubber mixture consisting of at least 50% of a styrene
plastic combined with rubber and various compounding ingredients,
Color:
Uses: Drainage and Septic fields.
Connection: Solvent Cement, Transition Fittings and Elastomeric Seal.
Diameter: 2” to 6”
Length:
Standard: ASTM D2852-16
Rating:

Flexible Type (Tubing)

Polyethylene (PE) – Most popular plastic resin in the world. Second most widely use
thermoplastic piping material.
Material: Can be use in low temperatures without risk of brittle failures.
Color: Varies
Uses:
- Natural Gas Distribution
- Slip-lining
- Power Plant Piping
Connection: Heat fusion, Mechanical Joints and Flange connections.
Diameter: 1/2” to 120”
Length: 20ft length or coils up to 500ft.
Standard: ASTM F714
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40 and 80.

Polybutylene (PB)
Material: Can be use in low temperatures without risk of brittle failures.
Good performance at high temperatures.
Color: Mostly grey but can be white, silver, black or blue.
Uses:
- Hot & Cold-Water lines
- Gas
- Irrigation
Connection: Heat fusion, Crimp Joints and Compression Connection.
Diameter: 1/8” to 2”
Length: 30m – 150m coil
Standard: ASTM D3309-92
Rating: Most Common is Schedule 40 and 80.

Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX / XPE / XLPE) – Has a “strong memory”.

Material: A thermoset material made from medium or high density, cross-
linkable polyethylene.
Types:
- PEX A (most flexible)
- PEX B (A bit stiffer than PEX C)
- PEX C (less flexible than PEX A)
Color: Varies
Uses: Hot & Cold supply connections.
Connection: Need special tools.
Diameter: 1/4” to 6”
Length: 20ft length or up to 1000ft coils.
Standard: ASTM F876
 Rating: Standard Dimension Ratio 9
Advantages:
-Resistant to high-temperatures.
- Resistant to Freeze cracking.
- Water flow silently.
Disadvantages:
- UV rays will degrade PEX
- Not suitable for outdoor use.
- Cannot be recycle.

Consideration in Choosing Materials

1. Quality and Durability.
2. Resistance to external and internal contact with foreign matters.
3. Resistance to acid waste and other chemical elements that will pass into it.
4. Cost of materials and labor.
TYPES OF FITTINGS
Adaptor – Mainly used for extending pipe run in the forward direction with the same or
different diameter. By using an adaptor where we can connect two dissimilar pipes in the
same run. Adaptors function is generally similar to pipe couplings, with the difference that
they connect pipe of different types, one of which is an IPS (Iron Pipe Size). It may have
female or male IPS or threads on one end of the opposite gender on the other end, which
needs to be welded or soldered onto a smaller pipe. Adapters can be used for various utilities,
but they are typically used to connect different pipes to fixture.

Male Adaptors

Female Adaptor

Barb – Generally used to connect hoses to pipes. It is essential has a male end and on the
other end has a barbed tube, which is ridged and tapered cone. Plastic barbs are used when it
needs to carry cold water and brass barbs if they will carry hot water.
Coupling – It is mainly used to connect the two pipes of the same diameter. Couplings can
also be used to fix pile leakage or broken problem. Couplings have two main types named as
compression coupling and slip coupling. Compression coupling is mostly used to connect two
pipes and it is able to prevent leakage by the arrangement of gaskets or rubber seal on both
sides, otherwise, glue is provided. Slip coupling has two pipes that are arranged as one into
other. It is made up such that the inner pipe can slide up to some length. So we can solve the
problem of long length damage pipe by slip coupling.

Cross Type – has 4 vents or opening in all for directions and they are perpendicular to each
other. This type of fitting is used when there are 4 pipes that are meeting at the same point.
These types of fitting must be made from strong material as it has to bear more stress. Theses
stresses come from the point where all 4 pipes connect from different directions. These
types of pipe fitting are majorly used in the sprinkler system.
Double Tapped Bushing – The double tapped bushing is one type of nipple itself, but it has to
thread on both the inside and the outside. It is named as double tapped bushing because of its
center hole is threaded (tapped) from both top and bottom. It has only a female end.

Elbow – It is generally used to change the direction of the pipe run. Elbows are available in
different angle (22.5°, 45° and 90°). Normal types of elbow are used for a pipe of the same
diameter and reducer type of elbows are used when diversion is to be done for a pipe of
different diameters. They are made of from different materials. Elbows are mostly available
with female threads and we can fix them by butt or socket welding also.

Mechanical Sleeve – are generally used to connect two pipes by a screw or other fixtures.
This arrangement makes it easy to fix and repair. The mechanical sleeves are mostly
manufactured from a rubber material that in inserted inside a metal jacket (Stainless steel
clamp). As we tight the mechanical sleeves claim, it compresses the rubber inside to make a
tight seal.
Nipple – It is the most useful pipe fittings in the plumbing system. The nipple is not
connected to two pipes, but it connects two pipe fittings together. It is a small pipe fitting that
can be made of metals such as copper, brass, steel, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC).
A nipple with continuous threading is called a closed nipple. The nipple is available in males
and comes in varying lengths.

Reducer – The fitting to used

to make a larger flow area to
smaller area. It has two types,
one is concentric reducer that joins two pipes on the same axis, and the eccentric reducer is
used to join pipes of different diameters. The concentric reducer mostly has the cone shape
while eccentric reducer look somewhat like bells with offset center lines. They prevent air
bubbles in the pipes.

Tee – It is shaped like the letter “T”. It has an inlet and outlet. Tees are available in different
sizes and are considered sturdier than the cross fitting. A diverter type of Tee is used in
heating system that use water. This tees has the directional marking and needs to be installed
correctly for the system to operate.
Union – It can have both male and female threads. Union somehow similar to couplings, but
the difference is unions are easy to remove making them convenient for maintenance or a
planned future replacement. A coupling nature is more permanent and needs to be cut out.
Generally, it has three parts; nut, male end, and female end. It mainly utilized to join the male
and female ends.

Valve – allow mainly to used to regulate or stop the flow of fluid in a pipe.

Wye – Pipe fitting that resembles the letter “Y”, this fitting is made to connect three pipes.
Wye fittings permit the pipes to change their elevations and to branch out into fresh water
lines or drains. Wye fittings are somehow similar to Tee but the smoother angling reduces
friction and turbulence in water. It is mainly used to connect a vertical drainpipe to a
horizontal one.
Cap – It has almost similar function like a plug. But the main difference is that plug contains
male threads and cap contains female threads which are screws on the male thread of pipe.
They are manufactured from different materials like rubber, copper, steel, plastic, and etc.

Olet – Olet type of pipe fitting are generally utilized where there are standard sizes of fittings
that are not suitable for our requirement. If there is inlet pipe size is larger compared to outlet
pipes in T-sections then also olets are used. There are different types of olets available. Some
important types of olets are:
Butt-Weld Olet
Socket Weld Olet
Threaded Olet
Elbow Olet

Plug – The plug is one of the most important accessories of a plumbing system which is
generally used to close pipe opening during inspections and repairs. Plug mostly has male
threads.
 WATER SERVICE FITTING AND DEVICE
Corporate Stop Cock – A valve which is placed in water or gas service pipe of a building near
its junction with the public water or gas main.

Curb Stop

Curb Stop Box

JOINTS AND CONNECTION
Caulked Joints
- Align pipes.
- Packing Oakum – Wrap an oakum or hemp around the spigot neck: Drive the oakum into
the bottom of the hub using a yarning iron; compress firmly (make a 20-25mm clearance
from the top of bell).
- Ladle Lead – Seal joint with lead (3mm above bell).
- Packing with Caulking Iron.

Threaded Joints
- For Iron Pipe Size (IPS), pipe and fitting shall be standard taper pipe threads.
- Threads on plastic pipe shall be factory cut or molded.
- Lubricate clean-out plugs and cups with water-soluble, non-hardening material.
- Tape is acceptable for use on threads.

Solder and Sweat Joints

- For joints in copper tubing.
- Solders and fluxes with lead content which exceeds 0.002 are prohibited in piping system
used to convey potable water.
- Soldering of joints; 1. Clean pipe with emery cloth (or fine sand paper). 2. Apply (non-
corrosive) flux or soldering paste. 3. Heat the fitting with a propane torch. 4. Apply (non-
corrosive flux or soldering paste. 5. Wrap soldered joints with wet rags.
Wiped Joints
- Joints in lead pipe or fittings, between lead pipe or fittings and brass copper pipe, ferrules,
solder nipples or traps.
- Joints between lead pipe and cast iron, steel or wrought iron pipe shall be made by means of
a caulking ferrule or soldering nipple.

Asbestos Cement Sewer Pipe Joints

- Shall be a sleeve coupling of the same composition as the pipe or of the other approved
materials and sealed with neoprene rubber rings or joined by an approved type of
compression coupling.
Flared Joints
- For soft copper, water tubing shall be expanded with a proper flaring tool.

Burned Lead Joints

- Shall be lapped and the assembly shall be fused together to form a uniform weld at least as
thick as the lead sheets being joined.
Copper Water Tube
- Joints shall be made by the use of approved brass fitting soldered, or by brass compression
type fitting.

Solvent Cement Plastic Pipe Joints

- Shall comply with appropriate IAMPO installation standard.
- Method; 1. Measure the face to face distance of the fittings. 2. Cut with sharp
knife/hacksaw/handsaw. 3. Clean pipe end with Methyl Ethyl Keton (MEK) or Acetone. 4.
Insert Pipe into the fittings. 5. When bending plastic pipes, pack pipe with sand then beat
using flame torch or hot water, gradually applying pressure.

SPECIAL JOINTS AND CONNECTION

Copper Tubing or Screw Pipe Joints

- Joints shall be made by use of brass adaptor fittings.
- Joints shall be properly sweated or soldered.

Slip Joints
- Used in fixture traps (exposed fir maintenance) and drains.

Expansion Joints
- Used in soil and waste stack joints shall be free and accessible.
Unions
- May be used in drainage work when accessibly located in the trap seal or between a fixture
and its trap.

Plastic Pipe Connection to other materials

- Use only approve types of fittings and adapters designed for the specific transition intended.

Flanged Fixture Connections

- Fixture connections between drainage pipes and water closets, floor outlet service sinks,
pedestal urinals, and earthenware trap standards shall be by means of approve brass, hard
lead, ABS, PVC or iron flanges caulked, soldered, solvent cemented or screwed to the
drainage pipe.
- Closet bends or stubs must be cut off square.
- Wall-mounted water closet fixture shall be securely bolted to an approved carrier fitting;
Gasket material shall be graphite -impregnated asbestos felt, or similar approved types.

Prohibited Joints and Connections.

- For Drainage System – Any fitting or connection which has an enlargement, chamber or
recess with a ledge, shoulder or reduction of pipe area, that offers any obstruction to flow
through the drain.
- An enlargement of 76mm to 102mm closet bend or stub shall be considered an obstruction.

INSPECTION AND TEST

Perform pressure test on joints and connections of pipes and fittings to ensure gastight and
watertight connections.
Water Testing – Testing of water supply piping is conducted by closing all outlet and filling
the system with water from the main to locate leaks and other potential problems.
Air Pressure Testing – Used in detecting leaks by filling the piping system with compressed
air (use of soap suds in locating escaping air).

HANGERS AND SUPPORTS

VERTICAL PIPING

Cast Iron Soil Pipes – Bell and Spigot and hub less pipe shall be supported at every storey or
closer.
Screwed Pipe – Iron pipe Size (IPS) shall be supported at not less than every other storey
height.
Copper Tubing – Shall be supported at each storey or at maximum intervals of 3meters on
center.
Lead Pipe – Shall be supported at intervals not exceeding 1.20meters at centers with a rigid
vertical back-up.
Plastic Pipe – Shall be supported at every one (1) meter interval.

HORIZONTAL PIPING

Cast Iron Soil Pipes – Where joints occur, suspended cast iron soil pipe shall be supported at
not more than 1.5meters interval; except that pipe exceeding 1.5 meters length, may be
supported at not more than 3 meters intervals. Supports shall be adequate to maintain
alignment and to prevent sagging and shall be placed within 0.45meters of the hub or joint.
Hubless or compression gasket joints must be supported at least at every other joint except
that when the developed length between supports exceeds 1.20meters, they shall be provided
at each joint. Support shall also be provided at each horizontal branch connection, placed on
or immediately adjacent to the coupling. Suspended lines shall be suitably braced to prevent
horizontal movement.
Screwed Pipe – IPS shall be supported at approximately 3.0m intervals for piping 19mm
diameter and smaller and 3.6m intervals for piping 25mm and larger in diameter.
Copper Tubing – shall be supported at approximately 1.8m intervals for piping 38mm
diameter and smaller and 3.0m interval for piping 51mm and larger in diameter.
Lead Pipe – shall be supported by stiff metal or wooden backing for its entire length with
hangers properly spaced.
In Ground – Piping buried in the ground shall be laid on a firm bed for its entire length,
except where concrete cradle support is provided.
Plastic Tube – Shall be supported by stiff metal or wood backing with hangers in its entire
length for small-size tubings up to 38mm diameter and without backings but with spaced
metal hangers at approved spacing for larger size tubings.

Supporting Cast Iron Pipe

- Supports shall be placed at every joint on horizontal runs unless distance between joints is
less than 4ft.
- Use strap iron or special pipe hangers for this purpose.
- Vertical runs of cast iron pipe can be attached to the building structures with wire staples,
vertical pipe brackets or pipe straps.
- Friction clamps should support the weight of cast-iron pipe at each floor level.

PIPE STRAP

PIPE HANGER

WIRE STAPLE PIPE BRACKET

 FRICTION CLAMP
Masonry Anchors and Fasteners
Lag Shields – (made from lead) are commonly used to attach pipe hangers or fixtures to
concrete masonry.

Caulking Anchors –
Provides a fastener which
is permanently attached to
the concrete or masonry; it
is internally threaded to accept machine screws and bolts.

Toggle Bolts – Are used when attaching pipes to hollow masonry units; with spring-operated
wigs.
Plastic Anchors – Can be installed in smaller holes.

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

Water Supply for Fire Protection System

Elevated Water Tank
Underground Water Reservoir
Types of Fire Protection System
Dry Standpipe System
- No longer being utilized in new buildings, provided other systems are employed (otherwise
must be installed in buildings 4 levels or more.)
- The standpipe is a pipe installed in buildings not as part of the water supply or waste
disposal system but primarily for use as water conveyor in case of fire.
- How it works; a standpipe is connected to the building exterior (max height = 1.20m) for
connection to fire department.
- As much as possible, standpipes should be located in stairway landing.

Wet Standpipe System

- How it works; a piping network (line is directly connected to the main water line) connects
to all levels of a building (at least 1 standpipe on each level).
- Wet standpipes shall be constructed of wrought iron or galvanized steel.
- The number of wet standpipes shall be determined so that all portions of the buildings are
within 6.00 meters of a nozzle attached to a hose 23 meters long.
- The minimum diameter for a wet standpipe is 51mm for those less than 15meters from the
fire service connection. For those more than 15 meters from the fire service connection, the
minimum diameter is 63mm.

Wet Standpipe System with Siamese Connection

- How it works: a piping network directly connected to the main water line. Connects to all
levels of a building; additionally, a Siamese connection is located outside the building for
additional water supply.

Automatic / Sprinkler System

- There are two general types of Automatic Sprinkler Systems: the Automatic Wet and
Automatic Dry (Spacing - 3 to 6m, circle effective area – 10 to 20 sq.m.).

Fire Hydrant
- In rural areas where municipal water system is not available, hydrants are used to supply
water for fighting fires. A dry hydrant is analogous to a standpipe. A dry hydrant is usually an
unpressurized, permanently installed pipe that has one end below the water level of a lake or
pond.

SMOKE DETECTORS AND SPRINKLER HEADS

Spacing of Sprinkler Heads
KIND OF BUILDING COVERAGE OF ONE SPRINKLER
HEAD
Light Hazard Occupancy 20 square meters
Extra Hazard Occupancy 10 square meters

Special Installation Requirements

At least one fire department connection on each frontage.
A master alarm system valve control for all water supplies other than fire department
connections.
Special fire walls between protected areas.
Sloping water proof floors with drains or scupper to carry away waste water.

Types of Sprinkler Heads

Upright – used above piping when piping is exposed.
Pendent – Projects through a finished ceiling when piping is exposed.