Plumbing Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Section 613.5 require the flow of hot water to be stopped when the hot water temperature exceeds 125°F and the high temperature alarm is activated?#

No. Due to the possibility of patients receiving thermal shock from cold water, HCAI discourages the use of any device, such as solenoid valve, to stop the flow of hot water when the high temperature alarm is activated. If the design professional or facility wishes to stop the flow of hot water, the flow of cold water must also be stopped to prevent the patient from receiving thermal shock from the cold water.

2. Are “roof drains” allowed over operating rooms?#

Drainage piping over operating rooms should be avoided as this is a potential infection source. Section 310.9 states that drainage piping over operating rooms shall be kept to a minimum. Drainage piping includes roof drains. For additional information please refer to Code Application Notice (CAN) 5-310.9.