The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is a proven, comprehensive model plumbing code that works seamlessly with ICC's family of building codes. It sets minimum regulations for plumbing systems and components to protect life, health and safety of building occupants and the public. The IPC is available for adoption by jurisdictions ranging from states to towns, and is currently adopted on the state or local level in 37 states in the U.S, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
Development of the 2024 International Plumbing Code is nearing completion (see the code development schedule for details). The 2021 Group A Online Governmental Consensus Vote was conducted October 15th through November 1st and the preliminary results are available through cdpACCESS. The 2021 Group A Final Action results, including vote tallies from both the Public Comment Hearing and OGCV, will be posted following certification in accordance with Section 10.4 of CP 28.
As a model code, the IPC is intended to be adopted in accordance with the laws and procedures of a governmental jurisdiction. When adopting a model code like the IPC, some jurisdictions amend the code in the process to reflect local practices and laws. Click here for additional code adoption resources and for sample adoption ordinances.PublicationsBooks on the IPCICC produces a wide range of support products and materials to help users and enforcers of the IPC to improve their knowledge and understanding of the code. Several key publications are provided below, click here for the full list on the ICC Bookstore.
The ICC-ES PMG Listing Program assists code enforcement professionals to determine whether plumbing products comply with codes and applicable standards. The ICC-ES program provides comprehensive coverage of codes and standards as well as compliance with the IgCC (International Green Construction Code), green rating systems, WaterSense, ICC-ES Evaluation Guidelines and even Canadian accreditation.
Staff Code Opinions and Committee Interpretations are intended to provide technical support and clarification of code text for adopting jurisdictions, design professionals, and members of the construction industry. Technical Opinions on codes and standards are an exclusive benefit of ICC Membership.TrainingTraining and Education for the IPCICC provides a full suite of training courses geared specifically for the IPC. ICC instructors provide hands-on, practical problem-solving training and are available to teach on-site single- or multiday courses. For more information click here or call 888-ICC-SAFE (888-422-7233), ext. 33818.
ICC operates a number of committees and councils related to the development and maintenance of codes and standards. There are several that relate specifically to the IPC. Click here for information on the full range of current technical committees.
PMG Membership Council (PMGMC). A group that serves as a forum for discussion, networking, and feedback to Council leadership on issues of importance to the plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, and swimming pool community within ICC. It also takes on projects and initiatives to advance and support these disciplines. Open to all ICC members who may join at any time.
PMG Code Action Committee (PMGCAC). Discipline-specific body that acts as a forum for complex technical issues ahead of the Code Development Process. The PMGCAC identifies emerging issues or drafts proposed code changes of importance to ICC Members relating to the plumbing, mechanical or fuel gas disciplines. Open to participation by any member, voting members of the CAC must apply during open calls for applicants.
International Plumbing/Private Sewage Code Committee (IPC-IPSDC). Technical committee responsible for hearing proposed changes to the International Plumbing Code and International Private Sewage Code during the Committee Action Hearing phase of the code development process. Prospective members of the IPC-IPSDC must apply during open calls for applicants.
The International Plumbing Code is a plumbing code and standard that sets minimum requirements for plumbing systems in their design and function, and which sets out rules for the acceptance of new plumbing-related technologies. It is published by the International Code Council based in Washington, D.C., through the governmental consensus process and updated on a three-year cycle to include the latest advances in technology and safest plumbing practices. The current version of this code is the 2021 edition.[1] The IPC protects public health and safety in buildings for all water and wastewater related design, installation and inspection by providing minimum safeguards for plumbers and people at homes, schools and workplaces. Water heaters, anti-scalding devices, back-flow prevention methods, water pipe sizing and many other such issues are addressed in the IPC.
The IPC is the most widely used plumbing code in the United States and is also used as the basis for the plumbing code of several other countries[citation needed]. Wide adoptions are important as they help reduce manufacturer and end-user costs by allowing the use of materials across a wide user base, thus allowing economies of scale in the production of materials used in construction.
Uniformity in the codes adopted across many areas also allows a broader sharing of best building practices and techniques and improves the transferability of experts such as architects, engineers, code officials, building inspectors, and other building professionals among those different areas. More adoptions also invite broader participation in the formulation the codes, which lends to the incorporation of the latest and best building techniques that enhance the safety of citizens in the areas using the codes.
International Plumbing Code, are used in a variety of ways in both the public and private sectors. Most industry professionals are familiar with International Building Codes as the basis of laws and regulations in communities across the U.S. and in other countries.[1]
PURCHASE THE PDF/REDLINE DOWNLOAD VERSION AND GET IMMEDIATE ACCESS!!! The PDF/Redline Download option contains PDF files of both the base I-Code and a Redline version of the I-Code which shows changes from the previous edition marked in the color red. With the Redline you can quickly spot changed sections and tell specifically what has been changed from the previous edition, saving time and confusion. This convenient option is a searchable PDF download that requires a PDF Reader. This option is mobile friendly and compatible with all devices, including mobile tablets and smart phones. The PDF Download is licensed per individual in which the individual can place on up to four electronic devices for their personal use. Distribution of the PDF is not permitted. For a volume license the PDF is licensed to the person in which it is assigned. Use on a local area network or other network is not permitted.
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The 2021 IPC provides minimum regulations for plumbing facilities and provides for the acceptance of new and innovative products, materials, and systems. In October 2019, the Code Council released an independent study comparing model plumbing codes.
The International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials community of plumbing experts plays a vital public health role in assuring access to clean water and sanitation.
We like to say we live by the code. A code that says that water is safe, that plumbing systems are strong and that our association is even stronger.
The strength of our association brings all sectors of the plumbing industry together -- contractors, engineers, manufacturers and researchers -- rooted in a common belief that access to clean water is a fundamental right.
Our consensus-based model code development process opens ourselves up to the genius of the entire community--and to the sunlight of the communities we serve through our open and transparent process.
Because safety belongs to everyone.
The IAPMO Group is a cohesive organization of unique business units, providing code development assistance; industry-leading education; personnel certification; plumbing, electro-plumbing, and mechanical product testing and certification; building product evaluation; supply chain services; and a manufacturer-preferred quality assurance program. Each component of The IAPMO Group works toward playing an integral role in protecting the health of people everywhere.
Contractors recognize the International Plumbing Code (IPC) as the gold standard in providing prescriptive and performance-related code provisions for potable water supply and distribution piping, sanitary drainage and venting, backflow prevention and more. They understand the importance of the IPC in creating safe, sustainable and reliable buildings for all occupants.
Typically, the egress door for a multiple-user toilet facility is not allowed to be lockable from inside the room. This is a precautionary measure to prevent people from accidentally locking themselves in, to mitigate pranks performed by mischief-makers, and to minimize the risk of any other issue that could occur if the toilet facility was locked from the inside. It does not, however, apply to family or assisted-use toilet facilities.
New requirements are particularly important and should not be overlooked. One of them applies to expansive soil in IPC Section 305.8. This new requirement specifically pertains to the protection of piping, fittings, hangers and supports from the effects of expansive soils.
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