BOABC Plumbing Level I key terms

A unit of measure that expresses the probable load a plumbing fixture places on the drainage system, based on its discharge rate and time of use. Values are summed to size pipes.

A unit value assigned to a fixture reflecting its rate of wastewater discharge and how long it flows. Used to compute the total drainage load for sizing building drains and sewers.

A unit value reflecting the demand a fixture places on the water distribution system, accounting for flow rate and probability of simultaneous use. Used to size supply piping.

The lowest piping of a drainage system that receives waste from inside the building and conveys it to the building sewer, typically ending at the exterior wall.

The pipe carrying sewage from the building drain to a public sewer, private disposal system, or other point of disposal. It begins outside the building foundation.

A pipe that carries the discharge of water closets and similar fixtures containing fecal matter. Soil stacks are sized separately from waste stacks in some codes.

A vertical pipe that conveys sewage from water closets to the building drain. It must be sized and vented to prevent pressure imbalances in the drainage system.

A pipe that carries liquid waste from fixtures other than water closets, such as sinks, lavatories, and showers. Waste pipes connect to the drainage system and require venting.

A vertical pipe providing air to the drainage system so traps maintain their water seals and waste flows freely. It extends through the roof or connects to an approved vent terminal.

The open end of a vent pipe that admits air into the plumbing system and releases gases outdoors. It must be located at an approved height and distance from openings.

The portion of a fixture drain between the trap weir and the vent connection. Its length and slope are limited by code to prevent self-siphonage of the trap seal.

The depth of water in a trap that blocks sewer gas from entering a building. Codes require a minimum seal depth, and the seal must be protected by proper venting.

An unobstructed vertical distance between a water supply outlet and the flood level rim of a fixture or receptacle. It provides the highest level of backflow protection.

A device or assembly installed to stop contaminated water from reversing flow into the potable water supply. Selection depends on the degree of hazard present.

Any actual or potential link between the potable water system and a source of contamination or pollution. Cross-connections must be eliminated or protected against.

The edge of a fixture or receptacle from which water would overflow onto the floor. It is the reference point for measuring air gaps and backflow protection.

The pipe from the water main or other source of supply to the building, ending at the point where it enters the building or at the meter. It must be sized for peak demand.

A device that measures the volume of water delivered to a building. Its location and the piping around it affect service sizing and backflow protection requirements.

The portion of the building sewer that connects to the public sewer main. It is often owned and maintained by the property owner up to the main.

An accessible fitting with a removable plug that allows the drainage system to be cleared of blockages. Codes specify required locations, spacing, and accessibility.

The process of examining submitted construction documents for compliance with applicable codes and regulations before a permit is issued. It may include plumbing, mechanical, and structural checks.

Construction documents that have been reviewed and stamped by the authority having jurisdiction. Work must conform to these plans, and changes require re-approval.

A formal request to the authority having jurisdiction for authorization to perform plumbing work. It includes plans, fees, and details of the proposed installation.

A document issued by the building official confirming that a structure complies with applicable codes and may be legally occupied. It is typically issued after final inspection.

A written requirement describing materials, methods, and workmanship for a project. Specifications supplement drawings and are reviewed together with them.

A schematic drawing showing the vertical arrangement of plumbing stacks, vents, and fixtures in a building. It helps reviewers verify pipe sizes and venting.

A three-dimensional representation of a plumbing system showing pipe routing, fittings, and fixture connections. Reviewers use it to check slopes, sizes, and venting arrangements.

The organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing code requirements and approving materials, installations, and procedures. Often abbreviated AHJ.

An inspection performed after piping is installed but before it is concealed by walls, floors, or ceilings. It verifies pipe sizes, slopes, supports, and venting.

The last inspection of completed plumbing work, verifying that fixtures, connections, and testing are complete and comply with approved plans and codes.

Plumbing installations hidden from view after construction, such as pipes inside walls or under slabs. It must be inspected and approved before being covered.

A pressure test in which a piping system is filled with water and pressurized to detect leaks. It is commonly required for drainage and water supply systems before concealment.

A procedure that subjects piping to internal pressure, often using water or air, to verify joints and connections are leak-free. Test pressures and durations are set by code.

A written directive from the authority having jurisdiction requiring work to halt because it is unsafe or not compliant. Work may not resume until the issue is resolved.

A formal written notice issued by a code official identifying a code violation and specifying corrective action and deadlines. Failure to correct may lead to penalties.

Conformity with applicable codes, regulations, and approved plans. Demonstrating compliance is the central obligation of the contractor and the purpose of inspections.

A situation where a professional's personal, financial, or other interest could improperly influence official judgment or duties. Such conflicts must be disclosed and avoided.

A set of principles governing professional behavior, including honesty, integrity, competence, and fair dealing. It guides decisions when rules alone do not resolve an issue.

Behavior expected of a licensed or certified plumbing professional, including competence, honesty, respect for the public, and adherence to laws and codes.