Lastname, Firstname 2004-06-22 2004-06-22 2005-06-30 Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Safety and Buildings Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Safety and Buildings, Commerce, Safety and Buildings, Comm, Credentials, Certifications, Buildings Codes, Registrations, Construction, Public Safety, Licenses, Permits, License application forms, Trades, Administrative codes, Regulations, Statutes, Administrative rules, Cities, City, Towns, County, Counties, Municipal, Ordinances, Hygiene, Hazardous, Diseases, Design, Engineering, Continuing education, Audits, Grants, POWTS, Private wastewater treatment systems, Septic field, Septic tanks, Sewage treatment, Sewage disposal, Accessibility, Accessible, Disability, Disabilities, Clean air, Clean water, Air quality, Public sector employees, Applications, Plan review, State, Bureau of Program Development, Bureau of Field Operations, Bureau of Integrated Services, Environmental assessments, Environmental impact statement, Soil erosion, Drinking water, Appliances, Plumbing Products, Fire prevention and protection, Firefighter safety, Fire Sprinklers, Rental unit energy efficiency, Rental weatherization, Commercial buildings, Forms, Publications, Plumbing, Inspection, Inspectors, Consultants, Waste disposal, Historic buildings, Occupational and industrial safety, Occupational health, One and two family dwellings, Houses, Housing, Homes, Multifamily dwellings, Mine Safety, Mining, Mines, Open pits, Quarries, Blasters, Plumbers, Electricians, Boilers, Wastewater, Elevators, Lighting, Energy, Mobile homes, Manufactured homes, Welding, Structural systems, Gas systems, HVAC, Refrigeration, Public swimming pools, Wisconsin Fund, Explosives, Amusement rides and attractions, Tramways lifts and tows, Government facts figures and statistics Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, Division of Safety and Buildings, Commerce, Safety and Buildings, Building, Wisconsin, Safety, Construction, License. Safety and Buildings Division - WPCR, January 2001 You may choose the number of one of the articles or scroll down: 1. Patching or repairing plumbing systems - When can you do what?; 2. Meeting Calendar; 3. Changes in plan review process for off-lot and multi-structure systems; 4. Placing a POWTS in a floodplain; 5. 2001 Safety and Buildings Division Credential Exam Dates; 6. Multipurpose Piping Systems - Only installed by plumbers
1. Patching or repairing plumbing systems - When can you do what?
by Lynita Docken, S&B Plumbing Program Manager, 608-785-9349, Ldocken@commerce.state.wi.us
It's a Friday afternoon in January. The temperature is 10 degrees and you've just found a leak in a water service. Because the sun's almost down and it's getting colder by the minute, it's easiest to repair the pipe with a clamp.
This is one of the emergency situations plumbers across Wisconsin run into every winter. How does the code address the circumstance? The code language for repairs is in Comm 82.21(2)(f): "All repairs to fixtures or piping shall be done in conformance with the provisions of this chapter, except repair clamps or bands may be used for emergency situations."
In past years this repair included limited options. The repair coupling was frequently used for repairs. Recently, options have expanded to kits that include epoxy agents, fabric wraps, and even pipe liners that are forced inside pipe because the original piping material is cracked and expanded.
How can the different repair kits, liners, clamps and bands be used? The code language is clear that "clamps or bands may be used for emergency situations." However, the exact repair materials or pipe liners aren't addressed in the text. Since the purpose of the repair kit is identical to that of the repair clamp, S&B acknowledges the use of patches such as fabric wrap kits, epoxy and other kits sold for plumbing repair. (For the purpose of definition, a repair clamp or a wrapping kit are both "patches.") will not harm the downstream treatment system and will not release toxic substances into the wastewater stream (Comm 82.10(1) and Comm 83.32(1)(c)), unless those substances are intercepted or treated prior to discharge.
If a patch is safe for a water supply, safe for the environment, and is temporary, it may be used in emergency situations. These patches, clamps, bands, or liners do not need product approval and you will not find them listed in the Wisconsin Plumbing Products Register. Patches include bands, clamps, liners, and any other repair kit designed to be used in the plumbing system.
How long can a patch stay in place? The code isn't specific as to how long an emergency repair band or clamp can remain in place. Usually the patch is intended to get someone through a weekend or a hard piece of winter. Because the code doesn't address the length of time, an inspector's orders or individual circumstances will determine the time length. If an inspector's orders are to permanently repair a piping system within 90 days, the patch would be required to be replaced with code compliant material within that 90 days. Otherwise, it makes sense to get back to replace the patched material as soon as possible.
Can a patch be used on a new plumbing system? No. Clamps, bands, and repair kits aren't code compliant to repair leaks in new installations. These products are meant for emergency repairs. A patch will not be permitted prior to a plumbing system passing a final test (where required), or until after a system has been existing for an initial period.
Materials that permanently replace building sewer pipe must meet one of the standards listed in Table 84.30-3 (Comm 84.30(2)(c)), so if a liner is installed to permanently serve as a sewer, the liner would be required to meet one of the listed standards or have received alternate approval. The same criteria would hold true for any patch or repair kit. If it is to remain permanently as a part of the plumbing piping system, it must be of a material listed in Comm 84.
If you have questions regarding patches or repairs, contact a plumbing consultant, plan reviewer, or product reviewer listed in contacts.
2. Meeting Calendar
Feb. 7, 2001, Wednesday, Pool Advisory Code Council, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Thompson Commerce Center, Rm. 3B, 201 W Washington Ave, Madison, Jean MacCubbin, jmaccubbin@commerce.state.wi.us, 608-266-0955
February 7, 2001, Wednesday, Uniform Dwelling Code Council, 9:30 a.m-2:30 p.m., Wisconsin Builders Association, 4868 High Crossing Blvd, Madison, Duane Hubeler, dhubeler@commerce.state.wi.us, 608-266-1390
February 8, 2001, Thursday, Fire Safety Code Council, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Thompson Commerce Center, Rm 3C, 201 W Washington Ave, Madison, Duane Hubeler, dhubeler@commerce.state.wi.us, 608-266-1390
February 8, 2001, Thursday, Plumbing Advisory Code Council, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.Thompson Commerce Center, 1st Floor, Human Resources Conference Rm., 201 W Washington Ave, Madison, Jean MacCubbin, jmaccubbin@commerce.state.wi.us, 608-266-0955
March 8, 2001, Thursday, Commercial Building Code Council, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., UW-Madison Agricultural Research Station, 8502 Mineral Point Rd, Verona, Sam Rockweiler, srockweiler@commerce.state.wi.us, 608-266-0797
March 21, 2001, Wednesday, Multifamily Dwelling Code Council, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Wisconsin Builders Association, 4868 High Crossing Blvd, Madison, Sam Rockweiler, srockweiler@commerce.state.wi.us, 608-266-0797
3. Changes in plan review process for off-lot and multi-structure systems
by Roman Kaminski, S&B POWTS Program Manager, 715-345-5334, rkaminski@commerce.state.wi.us
The implementation of the new Comm 83 code has changed some POWTS plan review procedures. For example, the new code does not require that all off-lot systems automatically be submitted to the Safety and Buildings Division for review.
If a county receives an application for a POWTS system that can be reviewed under the provisions of Table 83.22-3, but it happens to be located "off-lot," the county can complete the design review. That type of submittal does not have to be reviewed by S&B prior to Sanitary Permit issuance. Make sure you check with the county in which your project is located to see what local administrative provisions, such as recording of easement documentation, may be required.
On occasion, we receive an inquiry on how to handle a situation where a property owner decides to install plumbing fixtures in a detached structure on their property.
Typically, there are two scenarios associated with this type of project: 1. The plumbing will be connected to the building sewer or private main interceptor, resulting in two structures served by a common POWTS system, or; 2. The plumbing in the detached structure is served by its own POWTS system.
Under the new code, these types of designs cannot be submitted to the county under the provisions of Table 83.22-3 because this table limits county plan review authority to "POWTS that will serve a single one-or two-family dwelling… and using gravity distribution of the effluent to an in-ground distribution cell." (A gravity-flow septic tank/soil absorption system.)
However, a county may request designated agent status under the provisions of Comm 83.23 that allow the county to review POWTS listed in Table 83.22-2. If the designated agent status is granted, a county may then review designs which could include POWTS that serve other than a one- or two-family dwellings.
S&B recently contacted the counties reminding them that, under the new code, they are able to request designated agent status for POWTS plan review. Preliminary responses seem to me to indicate interest in this code provision. We expect that a number of counties will be granted designated agent status for POWTS plan review before the start of the next construction season. As it happens, the information will be printed in the WPCR.
4. Placing a POWTS in a floodplain
by Roman Kaminski, S&B POWTS Program Manager, 715-345-5334, rkaminski@commerce.state.wi.us
One of the Safety and Buildings Division's Wastewater Specialists was recently asked by several counties how applications for placement of a POWTS in a designated floodplain area are handled under the provisions of the new Comm 83 POWTS code.
Reviews by the S&B or designated agents are outlined in Tables 83.22-1 and 83.22-2. Reviews that may be handled by local governmental units are outlined in Table 83.22-3. Systems located in the floodplain are not specifically identified in any of the tables. An "Application for Development of a Flood Plain" (SBD-6698 form, formerly known as a Plb. 89 form) is no longer required by S&B for development within the floodplain.
When a system is to be located in a floodplain area, the following code sections need to be considered:
1. Comm 83.32(3)(c) states that no part of a POWTS may be installed in a floodway, except as provided in NR 116, in a Department of Natural Resources code.
2. Comm 83.43(8)(g) requires POWTS treatment and holding components installed in areas subject to soil saturation to be anchored to prevent flotation.
3. Comm 83.45(6)(a) requires POWTS treatment and holding tanks to be watertight. And (6)(b) requires vent and observation pipes to terminate 2 feet above the regional flood elevation.
4. Comm 85.40(3)(a)5e requires the site report to include the floodplain elevation and the surface elevation of any adjacent navigable waters or reservoir.
If a POWTS system is proposed to be installed in a floodplain area, it does not automatically mean that the design must be submitted to S&B for review. A county may review and approve a POWTS design that will be located in a floodplain area, as long as the design meets the plan submission criteria identified in Tables 83.22-2 and/or 83.22-3. Most counties have access to detailed floodplain maps and are in the best position to make an accurate determination of acceptability based on that information.
I strongly recommend that soil testers and designers/installers check with the county where the project is located, and the local DNR office, for any applications or permits that may be required for disturbances such as excavation and/or filling in a floodplain area prior to POWTS plan submittal to the county or S&B.
5. 2001 Safety and Buildings Division
6. Multipurpose piping systems - Only installed by plumbers
By John Lippitt, S&B Fire Safety Program Manager, 608-266-1036, jlippitt@commerce.state.wi.us
I received a telephone call from a plumbing contractor who has a shop on the first floor and his residence on the second floor of a building in the City of Milwaukee. For his own safety, and as a demonstration to potential customers, he is contemplating installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in the building. Under the state Building Code, the residence is considered a Uniform Dwelling Code occupancy because there is only one residential unit with the commercial below.
The plumber had a couple of clear questions, and was also getting at the fundamental definitions of "Automatic Fire Sprinkler System" and "Multipurpose Piping System."
Question 1. Given that the second floor residence is a UDC unit, would the state building code consider an NFPA 13D sprinkler system acceptable in the residential unit?
Answer 1. Yes. The UDC is silent on sprinkler fire protection in one- and two-family dwellings. The state does not have any regulations for the design and installation of an "automatic fire sprinkler system" installed in a one- or two-family dwelling. I recommend that sprinkler contractors install an automatic fire sprinkler system in the home in accordance with NFPA 13D, but this is a recommendation only. Also interesting is that the UDC is a uniform state code, meaning local jurisdictions may not have additional regulations. Final result - other than licensing, the installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system in a one- or two-family home in Wisconsin is not regulated.
Question 2. Who, other than a licensed automatic fire sprinkler contractor, may install automatic fire sprinkler systems in one-and two-family residences?
Answer 2. There are three credential options for installing an "automatic fire sprinkler system" in a one- or two-family home: an Automatic Fire Sprinkler Contractor, a Journeyman Sprinkler Fitter, and an Automatic Fire Sprinkler System Apprentice. There are no other options.
If the plumber asking the questions wants an automatic fire sprinkler system in his building, he would be required to hire an automatic fire sprinkler contractor to install the system.
However, a master plumber who has completed an approved course as described in Comm 5.91(6)(b)1 may install a multipurpose piping system in a one- or two-family dwelling, as specified in Comm 82.40(3)(f). The installation must comply with NFPA 13D and the exceptions listed in the plumbing code. A journeyman plumber and an apprentice plumber working under the supervision of a master plumber that has attended an approved course may install a multipurpose piping system. As the plumber's dwelling is located above his shop, it is considered a single-family residence. He may install a multipurpose piping system in the dwelling portion of the building.
The scope of our conversation is limited to one- and two-family dwellings, because that is the scope of NFPA 13D. There is a definition in Comm 5.003(30m) which states "multipurpose piping system" means a type of water distribution system conveying water to plumbing fixtures and appliances and automatic fire sprinklers with the intention of servicing both domestic water needs and fire protection needs within a one- or two-family dwelling or manufactured dwelling. The installation of multipurpose piping systems by anyone is limited to one- and two-family dwellings.
Let me repeat, in different words, to try to be clear. An "automatic fire sprinkler system" is defined in 145.01(1), Stats. A plumber may not install an automatic fire sprinkler system in any building. "Plumbing" is defined in 145.01(10), Stats. A "multipurpose piping system" supplies water to plumbing fixtures and to residential sprinklers in one- or two-family dwellings. By definition, that is a water distribution system, which is included in the definition of plumbing. A sprinkler fitter may not install a multipurpose piping system in any building.
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