This report reveals critical factors that architects, engineers, & contractors must evaluate when considering value engineering of plumbing systems. Using research, industry data, & case examples, they explain the factors design & construction teams should use to select pipe materials that will perform safely and reliably… more
Using research, case examples, & industry data, this webinar explains how design & construction teams should balance cost & performance for plumbing systems. … more
One year after a train derailment contaminated the town of East Palestine, Ohio, with over a million pounds of toxic vinyl chloride, consequences of the disaster continue to impact the community of over 4,500 residents… more
Research identifies plastic pipes as a significant source of microplastics & nanoplastics in potable water systems. Both PVC and PE pipes crack and peel “relatively quickly” as they age, releasing plastic particles. When people ingest the particles flaking from plastic pipes, it increases their exposure to plastic pollution… more
Safe Piping Matters recently spoke with Anjanette Green, Senior Director of Product Transformation for the Healthy Building Network, about Informed, an impressive new platform to help project teams identify healthier building products, including the design and specification of plumbing systems… more
In February 2023, over 1 million pounds of carcinogenic vinyl chloride fouled the air, soil, & water of East Palestine OH. Contamination remains a serious concern despite declarations of safety. Safe Piping Matters calls for officials to recommend that families take measures to protect themselves… more
This report reviews issues related to firestopping assemblies for various plastic piping materials including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polyethylene (PE), & crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) plastic, as well as non-combustible piping materials such as copper, iron, & steel… more
Based on the findings from our Plumbing Specification Guide, this AIA course explains how the characteristics of materials used for drinking water, wastewater, and fire-suppression systems impact the health, safety, and sustainability of buildings. eligible for HSW credit. … more
Engineers and architects use plastic pipe for many critical systems – including drain, waste, and vent (DWV), water distribution, fire suppression sprinklers, and other applications – across a wide variety of building types. These systems are installed throughout structures, making it essential to understand how they will perform during fire incidents. This report examines fire safety aspects of plastic piping materials, including one of the most commonly used, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), through a review of relevant research… more
Part 2 of our recap of the presentation & discussions at the BSS conference. We focus on fire safety issues like combustibility, toxic releases, & firestopping. … more