What is the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme Equivalent for US Plumbers?
Unlike the UK’s Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS), the USA regulates drinking water protection through a combination of federal law, state codes, and local enforcement. Here’s what US plumbers need to know.
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)
The federal Safe Drinking Water Act sets minimum standards for public water systems. For plumbers, the most relevant provisions cover: – Lead-free requirements: All plumbing materials in contact with drinking water must be “lead-free” (≤0.25% lead content under the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act) – NSF/ANSI certifications: Plumbing products used in potable water systems must meet NSF/ANSI 61 (materials) and NSF/ANSI 372 (lead content) standards
Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention
Cross-connection – any connection between a potable water system and a potential contamination source – is regulated at the state and local level.
Backflow prevention devices are required wherever cross-connection risk exists: – Irrigation systems (atmospheric vacuum breaker or pressure vacuum breaker) – Commercial dishwashers, commercial kitchen connections – Chemical injection systems – Swimming pools and spas
Many jurisdictions require annual backflow preventer testing by a certified tester. Backflow prevention testing certification (obtained through the American Backflow Prevention Association) is a valuable credential for US plumbers.
Plumbing Codes That Apply
US plumbing work must comply with the local adopted code: – IPC (International Plumbing Code): Most states – UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code): California, Oregon, Washington, and others – Local amendments: Many jurisdictions add amendments on top of the base code
FAQs
Do US plumbers need to be certified for backflow preventer installation? Installation: not separately certified in most states (covered by plumbing license). Testing and certification of installed backflow preventers: yes – most jurisdictions require annual testing by a certified backflow tester, separate from the plumbing license.
What is NSF/ANSI 61 and why does it matter? NSF/ANSI 61 is the standard for drinking water system components – pipes, fittings, valves. Using non-certified materials in potable water systems is a code violation and creates liability. Look for the NSF-61 mark on all drinking water products.
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