Significant changes were made to the UPC and UMC, IAPMO says.

The 2009 editions of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, have been tentatively scheduled for release March 1, 2009, completing a three-year consensus development cycle accredited by the American National Standards Institute.

Significant changes to the UPC include:

• New requirements for the installation of nonwater urinals
• Specific prescriptive requirements for the installation of temperature limiting devices for various fixtures
• New requirements for the distribution of hot water for bathing, washing, laundry, cooking, dishwashing, etc.
• Updates and revises the identification of potable and nonpotable water systems
• New requirements for sizing Hydromechanical grease interceptors and gravity grease interceptors
• Complete modification and new requirements for greywater and reclaimed water systems
• Three new tables for ease of use, including approved materials, devices and their respective referenced standards for water supply and distribution piping and drain, waste and vent piping and backflow prevention devices, assemblies and methods

Significant changes to the UMC include:

• New requirements for outdoor air ventilation updated in accordance with ASHRAE 62.1-2007
• New requirements for the protection of mechanical equipment against flood damage
• 69 new refrigerants added to Table 11-1, Refrigerants Groups, Properties and Allowable Quantities
• For hydronic systems, three approved referenced standards for piping materials and installation
• New joining method for fuel gas tubing utilizing press-connect fittings in accordance with CSA LC-4
• New prescriptive and performance-based requirements for listed and unlisted open flame decorative appliances

The Uniform Codes are developed using the American National Standard Institute's consensus development procedures. This process brings together volunteers representing a variety of viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus on plumbing and mechanical practices.

The codes are designed to provide consumers with safe and sanitary plumbing and mechanical systems while, at the same time, allowing latitude for innovation and new technologies. The public at large is encouraged and invited to participate in IAPMO’s open consensus code development process. A code development timeline and other relevant information are available at IAPMO’s Website, www.iapmo.org.

Source: IAPMO