Proposed Change 2007

Sentence 3.7.2.3.(4) of Division B of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) allows for the manual operation of lavatories as well as their automatic operation. However, Sentence 2.2.10.6.(5) of Division B of the National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC) requires lavatories in a public washroom to be equipped with a device capable of automatically shutting off the flow of water when the lavatory is not in use.

The NBC’s permission of manual operation may lead to confusion for Code users who refer to the NPC and the NBC for applicable requirements for lavatories.

Justification

NBC Sentence 3.7.2.3.(4) is intended to limit the probability that persons will not be able to wash their hands in a lavatory by ensuring that the faucet is operable without the assistance of another person. NPC Sentence 2.2.10.6.(5) is meant to limit the probability that the faucet will be left on after handwashing is complete, leading to excessive water use.

Adding an explanatory Note to NBC Sentence 3.7.2.3.(4) to direct Code users to NPC Article 2.2.10.6. would reduce the risk of confusion for Code users who refer to both the NBC and the NPC for applicable lavatory requirements.

The addition of the Note would ensure that the requirements in both the NBC and the NPC are met, by ensuring that Code users are aware of the requirements for both the operation of the faucet and the automatic shut-off of water flow.

PROPOSED CHANGE

[3.7.2.3.] 3.7.2.3.Lavatories

[1] 1)Except as permitted by Sentence (2), at least one lavatory shall be provided in a room containing one or 2 water closets or urinals, and at least one additional lavatory shall be provided for each additional 2 water closets or urinals.

[2] 2)Wash fountains in circular form are permitted to be provided in lieu of lavatories required by Sentence (1) provided each 500 mm of circumference is considered to be the equivalent of one lavatory.

[4] 4)Lavatories required by Sentence (1) shall be equipped with faucets that

[a] a)operate automatically, or

[b] b) have a manual control that

[i] i)complies with Clause 3.8.3.8.(1)(b),

[ii] ii)does not require the application of continuous force to maintain water flow, and

[iii] iii)where metered, provides at least 10 s of water flow.

(See Note A-3.7.2.3.(4).)

Note A-3.7.2.3.(4) Lavatory Supply Fittings in Public Washrooms.

Article 2.2.10.6. of Division B of the NPC contains requirements for lavatory supply fittings in public washrooms. The designer must ensure that the plumbing installation complies with both the NPC and the NBC.

Impact analysis

There is no cost impact, as the proposed change is not a change to requirements. The new Note is meant to prevent confusion for Code users who refer to both the NBC and the NPC for lavatory supply fitting requirements.

Enforcement implications

Directing Code users to the NPC requirements for lavatory supply fittings would lead to consistency in Code compliance and guide the authorities having jurisdiction when enforcing these requirements across multiple disciplines.