Regulations For Sanitary Installations

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA
MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT
CODE FOR
BUILDING WORKS
SANITARY INSTALLATIONS
IN BUILDINGS
(DRAFT)
B3
August 2012
FOREWORD
The mission of the Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT) is to promote an
adequate, safe and well maintained works and transport infrastructure and
services so as to effectively contribute to the socio-economic development of
the country.
In exercising this mission and in discharging its responsibilities, the Ministry is

issuing a series of Design Manuals, Guidelines, Codes and Standards, of
which the “Code for Sanitary Installations In Buildings” is one part thereof.
The Code for Sanitary Installations In Buildings will be a nationally recognized

document which will serve as a standard reference for the regulation of design
and installation of sanitary systems in buildings.
The major benefits to be gained in applying this document are the

harmonization of professional practice in the building construction in Uganda
and curtailment of informal developments so as to ensure well-planned, well-
maintained, safe, cost effective and decent building developments and human
settlements throughout the country.
The Regulations will be periodically updated and new editions issued to cater
for the dynamic technological developments in the construction industry
Abraham Byandala
Minister of Works and Transport
August 2012
Regulations for Sanitary Installations ln Buildings Section 1
TABLES OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: SCOPE AND INTERPRETATIONS .................................................. 1.1

1.1 SCOPE ............................................................................................................ 1.1
1.2 INTERPRETATIONS ....................................................................................... 1.1
i
Ministry of Works and Transport
Regulations for Sanitary Installations ln Buildings
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
SECTION 1 : SCOPE AND INTERPRETATIONS .......................................................................... 1.1

1.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 1.1
1.2 INTERPRETATIONS ........................................................................................................... 1.1
SECTION 2 : GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................... 2.1
2.1 ADMINISTRATION .............................................................................................................. 2.1
2.1.1 Scope ...................................................................................................................... 2.1
2.1.2 Approval .................................................................................................................. 2.1
2.1.3 Application for Approval .......................................................................................... 2.1
2.1.4 Plans and Specifications ......................................................................................... 2.1
2.1.5 Duration of Approval ............................................................................................... 2.2
2.1.6 Responsibility .......................................................................................................... 2.2
2.2 UNITS OF MEASUREMENTS ............................................................................................ 2.2
2.3 WORKMANSHIP ................................................................................................................. 2.2
2.4 EXISTING BUILDINGS ....................................................................................................... 2.2
2.5 CONNECTION TO SEWERAGE SYSTEM ......................................................................... 2.2
2.6 CHANGES IN DIRECTION ................................................................................................. 2.2
2.6.1 General ................................................................................................................... 2.2
2.6.2 Soil/waste pipes ....................................................................................................... 2.3
2.6.3 Vent/water pipes ...................................................................................................... 2.3
2.7 PROHIBITED FITTINGS AND CONNECTIONS ................................................................. 2.3
2.8 DEAD ENDS ........................................................................................................................ 2.4
2.9 SUPPORTS AND HANGERS ............................................................................................. 2.4
2.9.1 Supports for Vertical Piping .................................................................................... 2.4
2.9.2 Supports for Horizontal Piping ................................................................................ 2.4
2.9.3 Hangers .................................................................................................................. 2.5
2.9.4 Supports for Drains ................................................................................................... 2.5
2.10 INSPECTION AND TESTING ............................................................................................. 2.5
2.10.1 Notice of Inspection and Testing .......................................................................... 2.5
2.10.2 New Work .............................................................................................................. 2.5
2.10.3 Existing Plumbing ................................................................................................. 2.6
2.10.4 Re-Testing ............................................................................................................ 2.6
2.10.5 Tests ..................................................................................................................... 2.6
2.10.6 Violations .............................................................................................................. 2.6
2.10.7 Materials and Labour for Tests ............................................................................. 2.6
2.10.8 Coverage of Work ................................................................................................ 2.6
2.10.9 Method of Testing of Plumbing and Drainage System .......................................... 2.6
2.10.10 Testing of Building Drains ..................................................................................... 2.8
i
2.10.11 Testing of Water Supply Systems ......................................................................... 2.8

2.10.12 Inspections and Tests not Required ..................................................................... 2.8
2.10.13 Certificates of Approval ......................................................................................... 2.8
SECTION : 3 PLUMBING FIXTURES ............................................................................................. 3.1
3.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................. 3.1
3.2 MATERIALS ........................................................................................................................ 3.1
3.2.1 Quality .................................................................................................................. 3.1
3.2.2 Standards to be Compiled with ............................................................................ 3.1
3.3 DELIVERY AND STORAGE ............................................................................................... 3.1
3.4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................. 3.1
3.4.1 Sanitary Accommodation ..................................................................................... 3.2
3.4.2 Fixtures ................................................................................................................. 3.2
3.4.3 Hygiene ................................................................................................................. 3.2
3.4.4 Support ................................................................................................................. 3.2
3.4.5 Installations .......................................................................................................... 3.3
3.5 SELECTION AND INSTALLATION OF FIXTURES ........................................................... 3.3
3.5.1 General .................................................................................................................. 3.3
3.5.2 Bath-Tubs .............................................................................................................. 3.3
3.5.3 Shower Units ......................................................................................................... 3.4
3.5.4 Bidets ................................................................................................................... 3.4
3.5.5 Sinks ...................................................................................................................... 3.5
3.5.6 Water Closet (WC) Pans ....................................................................................... 3.5
3.5.7 WC Seats and Covers .......................................................................................... 3.6
3.5.8 Water Closet Flushing Cisterns ............................................................................ 3.6
3.5.9 Urinals .................................................................................................................. 3.7
3.5.10 Wash Basins ........................................................................................................ 3.8
3.5.11 Laundry Trays ...................................................................................................... 3.9
3.5.12 Drinking Fountains ............................................................................................... 3.9
3.5.13 Special Fixtures Including Laboratories ............................................................... 3.10
3.5.14 Used Plumbing Fixtures ........................................................................................ 3.10
3.5.15 Fixture Over Flows ............................................................................................... 3.10
3.5.16 Fixture Strainers ................................................................................................... 3.10
3.5.17 Floor Drains (Floor Waste Gullies) ....................................................................... 3.10
3.6 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................................. 3.10
3.6.1 Inspection ............................................................................................................. 3.10
3.6.2 Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 3.10
ii
SECTION 4: DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY .................................................................................... 4.1

4.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 4.1
4.2 MATERIALS ........................................................................................................................ 4.1
4.2.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.1
4.2.2 Used Materials ..................................................................................................... 4.1
4.2.3 Choice of Material ................................................................................................ 4.1
4.2.4 Pipes and Fittings ................................................................................................. 4.2
4.3 JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS ........................................................................................... 4.3
4.3.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.3
4.3.2 Jointing of Pipes ................................................................................................... 4.3
4.3.3 Connections Between Different Materials ............................................................ 4.5
4.3.4 Jointing Pipes to Cisterns ..................................................................................... 4.5
4.4 QUALITY OF WATER SUPPLY ......................................................................................... 4.6
4.4.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.6
4.4.2 Potable Water ....................................................................................................... 4.6
4.4.3 Non-Potable Supply ............................................................................................. 4.7
4.5 PRESERVATION OF WATER QUALITY ........................................................................... 4.7
4.5.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.7
4.5.2 Prevention of Unsuitable Materials in Contact With Water ................................... 4.8
4.5.3 Prevention of Backflow ......................................................................................... 4.9
4.5.4 Prevention of Contamination of Water by Cross Connection ............................... 4.11
4.6 COLD WATER SUPPLY ..................................................................................................... 4.12
4.6.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.12
4.6.2 Types of Systems ................................................................................................. 4.12
4.6.3 Storage Cisterns (Tanks) ..................................................................................... 4.12
4.6.4 Stopcocks and Valves .......................................................................................... 4.17
4.6.5 Isolating Valves .................................................................................................... 4.19
4.6.6 Pumps and Equipment ......................................................................................... 4.19
4.6.7 Water Meters ......................................................................................................... 4.21
4.7 HOT WATER SUPPLY ........................................................................................................ 4.21
4.7.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.21
4.7.2 Types of System ................................................................................................... 4.21
4.7.3 Cold Feed and Hot Water Distribution Pipes ....................................................... 4.22
4.7.4 Re-Circulation System .......................................................................................... 4.23
4.7.5 Hot Water Storage Capacity ................................................................................. 4.23
4.7.6 Water Storage Temperature ................................................................................. 4.24
4.7.7 Energy Conservation ............................................................................................ 4.24
4.7.8 Installation of Hot Water Storage Heaters ............................................................ 4.24
4.7.9 Safety Devices ..................................................................................................... 4.25
iii
4.8 PIPE SIZING ........................................................................................................................ 4.27

4.8.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.27
4.8.2 Flows of Appliances, Loading Units and Design Flows ........................................ 4.27
4.8.3 Water Service Pipe ............................................................................................... 4.28
4.8.4 Distribution and Branch Supply Pipes .................................................................. 4.29
4.8.5 Water Supply to Fixtures ...................................................................................... 4.29
4.8.6 Minimum Pressure ............................................................................................... 4.30
4.8.7 Water Hammer ..................................................................................................... 4.30
4.9 ACCESSIBILITY OF PIPES AND WATER FITTINGS ....................................................... 4.31
4.9.1 General ................................................................................................................. 4.31
4.9.2 Pipes Passing Through Walls and Floors ............................................................ 4.31
4.9.3 Pipe in Walls and Floors ....................................................................................... 4.32
4.9.4 Pipes in Ceilings ................................................................................................... 4.32
4.9.5 Under Ground Stop Valves .................................................................................. 4.32
4.9.6 Above Ground Valves .......................................................................................... 4.33
4.9.7 Cisterns ................................................................................................................ 4.33
4.10 INSTALLATION OF PIPE WORK ........................................................................................ 4.33
4.10.1 Handling of Materials ............................................................................................ 4.33
4.10.2 Pipework in Buildings ........................................................................................... 4.33
4.10.3 Underground Pipe Laying ..................................................................................... 4.33
4.10.4 Cleaning and Disinfection of the Supply System .................................................. 4.33
4.10.5 Identifying and Recording Piping Locations ......................................................... 4.33
4.11 INSPECTION, TESTING AND COMMISSIONING ............................................................. 4.42
4.11.1 General .......................................................................................................... 4.42
4.11.2 Procedure .......................................................................................................... 4.42
4.11.3 Inspection .......................................................................................................... 4.43
4.11.4 Leakage Testing ................................................................................................... 4.43
4.11.5 Testing of Installations within Buildings ................................................................ 4.43
4.11.6 Testing of Under Ground Pipelines ...................................................................... 4.43
4.12 MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................................. 4.44
4.12.1 General .......................................................................................................... 4.44
4.12.2 Pipework .......................................................................................................... 4.44
4.12.3 Terminal Fittings and Valves ................................................................................ 4.44
4.12.4 Cisterns ......................................................................................................... 4.45
4.12.5 Ducts .......................................................................................................... 4.45
4.12.6 Vessels Under Pressure ....................................................................................... 4.45
4.12.7 Disconnection of unused Pipes and Fittings ........................................................ 4.46
4.12.8 Pumps ......................................................................................................... 4.46
iv
SECTION 5 : FIRE FIGHTING WATER SUPPLY ........................................................................... 5.1

5.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 5.1
5.2 MATERIALS ........................................................................................................................ 5.1
5.2.1 Selection and use ................................................................................................. 5.1
5.2.2. Standards to be Complied .................................................................................... 5.1
5.3 JOINTS ................................................................................................................................ 5.1
5.4 FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEMS ................................................................................................ 5.1
5.4.1 General .......................................................................................................... 5.1
5.4.2 Sprinkler Systems ................................................................................................ 5.1
5.4.3 Hose Reel Systems .............................................................................................. 5.2
5.4.4 Fire Hydrant Systems ........................................................................................... 5.4
SECTION 6 : INTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM OF BUILDINGS .................................................. 6.1

6.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 6.1
6.2 PERFORMANCE ................................................................................................................. 6.1
6.3 MATERIALS ......................................................................................................................... 6.1
6.3.1 Quality of Materials ................................................................................................ 6.1
6.3.2 Floor Flanges ....................................................................................................... 6.1
6.3.3 Galvanizing ........................................................................................................... 6.2
6.3.4 Identification of Materials ...................................................................................... 6.2
6.3.5 Used Materials ..................................................................................................... 6.2
6.4 DESIGN ............................................................................................................................... 6.2
6.4.1 General .......................................................................................................... 6.2
6.4.2 Traps .......................................................................................................... 6.2
6.4.3 Discharge Pipes and Stacks ................................................................................ 6.11
6.4.4 Drains .......................................................................................................... 6.25
6.4.5 Floor Waste Quills ................................................................................................ 6.36
6.5 GENERAL INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK ..................................................................... 6.39
6.5.1 Support and Fixing of Pipework ........................................................................... 6.39
6.5.2 Location ................................................................................................................ 6.41
6.5.3 Concealment of Pipes and Fittings ....................................................................... 6.42
6.5.4 Inspection and Testing of Installations ................................................................. 6.42
6.5.5 Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 6.42
SECTION 7 : EXTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM FOR BUILDINGS ............................................... 7.1
7.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 7.1
7.2 GENERAL ........................................................................................................................... 7.1
7.3 MATERIALS ........................................................................................................................ 7.2
7.4 FOUL DRAINAGE ............................................................................................................... 7.2
7.4.1 General .......................................................................................................... 7.2
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7.4.2 Determination of Pipe Size and Gradient ............................................................. 7.2

7.4.3 Connections to Foul Drains .................................................................................. 7.6
7.5 GROUND WATER DRAINAGE .......................................................................................... 7.6
7.5.1 General .......................................................................................................... 7.6
7.5.2 Groundwater Drains Under Buildings ................................................................... 7.7
7.5.3 Disposal of Groundwater Discharge ..................................................................... 7.7
7.5.4 Ground Water Flow .............................................................................................. 7.7
7.5.5 Drain Pipe Sizes ................................................................................................... 7.7
7.6 LAYING OF DRAIN PIPES ................................................................................................. 7.7
7.6.1 General .......................................................................................................... 7.7
7.6.2 Proximity to Other Services .................................................................................. 7.7
7.6.3 Depth of Cover ..................................................................................................... 7.7
7.7 EXCAVATION, BEDDING, SUPPORT AND BACKFILING ............................................... 7.10
7.7.1 Excavation of Trenches ........................................................................................ 7.10
7.7.2 Bedding pf Drains ................................................................................................. 7.11
7.7.3 Side Support, Overlay and Backfill Over Drains ................................................... 7.13
7.8 INSPECTION CHAMBERS AND MANHOLES ................................................................... 7.13
7.8.1 General ................................................................................................................. 7.13
7.8.2 Dimensions ........................................................................................................... 7.15
7.8.3 Materials of Construction for Inspection Chambers and Manholes ...................... 7.15
7.8.4 Channels and Benching ....................................................................................... 7.16
7.8.5 Access to Manholes Step Irons ............................................................................ 7.16
7.8.6 Drop-Pipe Manholes ............................................................................................. 7.17
7.8.7 Inspection Chamber and Manhole Covers and Slabs .......................................... 7.17
7.9 INTERCEPTORS, SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL UNITS ................................ 7.18
7.9.1 Interceptors .......................................................................................................... 7.18
7.9.2 Septic tanks .......................................................................................................... 7.20
7.9.3 Cesspools .......................................................................................................... 7.23
7.9.4 Effluent Disposal .................................................................................................. 7.24
7.10 INSPECTION, TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE OF DRAINAGE WORKS ....................... 7.25
7.10.1 Inspection and Testing of Drainage Works .......................................................... 7.25
7.10.2 Maintenance and Periodic Inspection .................................................................. 7.28
SECTION 8 : STROM WATER DRAINAGE .................................................................................... 8.1
8.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 8.1
8.2 MATERIALS ........................................................................................................................ 8.1
8.2.1 Selection and use .................................................................................................. 8.1
8.2.2 Standards to be Complied with ............................................................................ 8.1
8.3 JOINTS ................................................................................................................................ 8.1
8.4 DESIGN ................................................................................................................................ 8.1
8.4.1 General ......................................................................................................... 8.1
vi
8.4.2 Run-off .......................................................................................................... 8.2

8.4.3 Roof Drainage ...................................................................................................... 8.5
8.4.4 Surface Water Drainage ....................................................................................... 8.16
8.5 INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................. 8.18
8.5.1 Gutters .......................................................................................................... 8.18
8.5.2 Down pipes .......................................................................................................... 8.18
8.5.3 Storm water Drains ............................................................................................... 8.18
8.5.4 Storm Water Pits and Inlet Pits ............................................................................ 8.19
8.5.5 Inlets .......................................................................................................... 8.19
8.6 INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE ................................................................. 8.19
8.6.1 Inspection .......................................................................................................... 8.19
8.6.2 Testing .......................................................................................................... 8.19
8.6.3 Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 8.19
SECTION 9 : GAS SYSTEMS ........................................................................................................ 9.1
9.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................. 9.1
9.2 PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN .................................................................................................. 9.1
9.3 PIPE SIZING ........................................................................................................................ 9.2
9.4 PIPING ................................................................................................................................. 9.3
vii
SECTION 1
SCOPE AND INTERPRETATIONS
1.1 SCOPE
This Regulations lays down requirements for and gives recommendations on the
design, installation, testing and maintenance and materials of plumbing fixtures, water
supply for domestic and fire-fighting systems, internal drainage, venting and disposal
systems for water-borne domestic wastes and storm-water drainage system within
premises.
1.2 INTERPRETATIONS
In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires:
Air Gap : means the unobstructed vertical distance between the outlet of any
faucet or pipe and flood level rim of the water supply or receptacle.
Anti-flood valve: means the valve installed in a building drain or sewer to prevent
sewage from flowing back into the building.
Appliance : means a receptacle with necessary appurtenances designed for a

specific purpose the use or operation of which results in a discharge
into the sanitary drainage system.
Authority : means any body authorised by the Government to enforce these

Regulations or part thereof.
Back-flow : means such flow of water from any source other than the public
water supply system of potable water or any solid, liquid or gaseous
substance, or any combination thereof, into potable water
distribution pipe as may make the water in that pipe non-potable.
Branch : means that part of a pipe system which extends from a water
distribution pipe, or from a main soil or waste pipe, to one or more
fixtures, or the pipe connecting one or more individual vents with the
main stack or stack vent.
Building drain : means that part of the lowest piping of a drainage system which
receives the discharge from stacks and conveys it to the building
sewer via a manhole located at not more than 2.0m away from the
external building wall.
Building drainage: means a drainage system consisting of appliances, their traps and
discharge pipes, a soil or/and waste stack, graded discharge branch
pipes, a building drain and a building sewer with external drains,
manholes and other appurtenances.
Building sewer : means that part of the horizontal piping of a drainage system which
extends from the end of the building drain to a public sewer, a
treatment unit or cesspool or Septic Tank.
Cesspool : means a covered watertight tank used for receiving and storing
sewage from premises which cannot be connected to a public
1.1
sewer and where ground conditions prevent the use of an on site

treatment works including a septic tank.
Clean-out : means a device that has a removable cap or plug securely attached
to it and in a pipe so that the cap or plug may be removed to permit
pipe cleaning apparatus to be inserted into the pipe.
Collecting : Sewer means the public sewer outside the cartilage of the individual
plot or within a reserved way leave which crosses a part of the plot.
Crown weir : means the highest portion of the inside lower surface of the outlet
end of a trap.
Cross vent : means a vent interconnecting a stack and its relief vent.
Dead end : means leading from drainage piping or vent pipe that ends in a
cap, Plug or other closed fittings.
Developed length: means the total length along the centreline of a pipe and fittings
including all bends.
Discharge pipe : means a pipe for carrying sewage or waste water from any
fixture/ appliance to a stack, gully trap or drain.
Distribution Pipe: means any pipe (other than an overflow pipe or a flush pipe)
conveying water from a storage cistern or from any other pressure
source (apart from main's pressure) to one or more fixtures or
appliances (see Figure 1).
Drainage Trap : means a trap installed in the building to prevent circulation of air
between the drainage system inside the building and the sewer.
Drain : means any drain, together with its appurtenances, used for the
drainage of one building only, or of premises within the same
curtilage and made for the purpose of communicating there from
with a cesspool or other receptacle for drainage, or with a sewer
into which drainage, or two or more buildings or premises
occupied by different person is conveyed and includes any pipe or
channel, whether opened or closed. used or intended to be used
for drainage of land.
Drop pipe : means vertical section of drain joining the drains at different levels.
Duct : means an enclosure designed to accommodate water pipes and

fittings and other services if required and constructed so that access
to the interior can be obtained either through its length or at
specified points by removal of a cover or covers.
Dwelling : means a building constructed and adopted or designed to be used

as a residence.
Effective
opening : means the cross-sectional area of a faucet. fitting or pipe, at the
point of discharge.
Effluent : means liquid discharged from a wastewater treatment unit

(process).
1.2
Fire fighting water

supply system : means the water service pipe, a storage cistern, pumps, distribution
pipes, fittings and connecting pipes, control valves and devices
intended for the purpose of fire fighting.
Fire hose reel : means a length of fire fighting hose which is connected to a valved
water supply and is wound on a reel.
Fire hydrant : means a fitting installed in a water pipeline which provides a valved
outlet (above or below ground )to permit a controlled supply of water
to be taken from the pipeline for fire fighting.
Fixture : Refer to Appliance.
Fixture discharge
unit : means a design factor by which the hydraulic load produced by
fixtures may be expressed as multiples of that factor; and is usually
regarded as the amount of water discharged in one minute from a
lavatory basin with a standard 35mm waste, flowing full bore.
Flood level : means when used with reference to fixture. the level at which water
begins to overflow the top or rim of the fixtures
Floor drain : means a drain to receive water from a floor or section of a floor of a
building, especially the water used for washing the floor.
Flushing cistern : means a cistern provided with a device for discharging the stored
water rapidly into a water closet pan or urinal.
Flushing siphon : means a device, manual or automatic, actuated by siphonic action.
Flush valve : means a device located at the bottom of the tank for the purpose of
flushing water closets and similar fixtures.
Foul drainage : means the drainage of foul water with a given gradient.
Foul water : means any water contaminated by soil or any domestic wastewater.
Gradient : means when used with reference to a pipe, its slope with reference
to the true horizontal.
Grease trap : means a trap designed to intercept and prevent the passage of
grease into the drainage piping.
Gully trap : means an assembly used in a wastewater system which provides a

water seal to prevent odours and gases from external drain from
escaping into a building or into the atmosphere in the proximity of
the assembly.
Hydrant valve : means a valve controlling flow of water from the fire hydrant outlet
with provision for attachment of a fire hose.
Indirect waste : means waste that is not discharged directly into drainage piping.
Indirect waste
pipe : means a waste pipe that connects indirectly to drainage piping through
a gully trap.
1.3
Industrial wastes : means liquid wastes resulting from the processes employed in
industrial establishments and which are free from faecal matter.
Inspection
chamber : means a covered chamber constructed on a drain or sewer so
as to provide access thereto, for inspecting, testing or clearance
and removal of obstructions, and usually situated in areas
subjected to light loading only.
Intercepting trap : means a devise designed and installed so as to separate and

retain deleterious, hazardous, or undesirable matter from normal
sewage or liquid wastes to discharge into the disposal terminal
by gravity.
Interceptor : means an appurtenance or device designed and installed so as

to separate and retain deleterious, hazardous, or undesirable
matter (liquid or solid) from normal wastewater and permit
normal wastewater or liquid waste to discharge into the disposal
terminal by gravity.
Junction : means a plumbing fitting used to connect a branch pipe or

channel to a main pipe or channel.
Load factor : means a percentage of the total connected fixture unit flow rate
which is likely to occur at any point in the drainage system: and
varies with the type of occupancy, the total flow unit above this
point being considered, and with the probability factor of
simultaneous use.
Manhole : Refer to Inspection Chamber.
Nominal size : means a numerical designation of the size of a pipe, bend or

branch (DN) fitting, which is a convenient round number
approximately equal to a manufactured dimension.
Offset : means when used with reference to piping, a pipe with double
bends running parallel.
Peak flow : means the maximum rate of a fluctuating flow.
Pipework : means an installation of piping with its fittings.
Plumber : means a person who is technically qualified and certified by the

appropriate authority to practice the plumbing works.
Plumbing
inspector : means a person appointed by the appropriate authority to
enforce regulations.
Plumbing system : means the arrangement of fixtures, pipes, drains and other
appurtenances, including venting system, for conveying water,
sewage, or other liquid wastes to, in or from a building and its
associated premises; and does not include arrangements
outside the property boundary.
Potable water : means water which is satisfactory for human consumption and
meets the requirements of the Ministry responsible for public
health.
Potable water
system : means the plumbing system that conveys potable water.
1.4
Private sewerage
disposal : means any approved privately owned and operated system of
sewage disposal.
Relief vent : means a vent installed in a stack below the lowest fixture.
Riser : means a water supply pipe which extends vertically one full
storey or more to convey water to branches and to sanitary
fixtures if it is a direct system or to storage cisterns/tanks for
distribution by gravity.
Roding : means a system of rods which are progressively joined to clear

drainage lines.
Roughing work : means the installation of all parts of the plumbing system which
is completed prior to the installation of fixtures.
Sanitary unit : Refer to Appliance.
Self-cleansing
velocity : means the velocity of a flowing liquid in a pipe or channel
necessary to prevent the deposition of solids in suspension.
Septic tank : means a water-tight receptacle which receives the discharge of

a drainage system or part thereof, designed and constructed so
as to retain solids, digest organic matter through a period of
retention and allow the effluents to be discharged to percolation
trenches or soak away pits.
Service pipe : means so much of any pipe for supplying water from a main to
any premises as is subject to water pressure from that main.
Sewage : means any liquid waste containing animal, vegetable, or mineral

matter, in suspension or solution and includes household wastes
and wastes from commercial and industrial establishments.
Sewer : means a conduit for the carriage of sewage which is usually

vested in the local sewerage authority.
Sewerage system: means drainage piping, main sewers and private or public
sewage treatment plants and sewage-disposal plants.
Siphonage : means the siphoning away of water seals in fixture traps due to
negative pressure.
Sleeve : means an enclosure of tubular or other section of suitable

material so designed as to provide a space through an
obstruction to accommodate a single water pipe and to which
access to the interior can be obtained only from either end of
such sleeve.
Soak away pit : means a pit dug into permeable ground, filled with broken stone,
bricks or large granular material and usually covered, where
liquid may seep away into the ground.
Soil pipe : means a pipe that conveys the discharge of soil from sanitary
appliances other than from waste water sanitary appliances i.e.
WCs and Urinals.
1.5
Soffit : means the highest point of the internal surface of a pipe at any
cross section.
Sprinkler system : means an assembly of pipework graded in size, erected

throughout a building and which sprinkler heads are installed at
prescribed intervals. The pipe work is connected to a set of
installation (e.g control valves, etc) for the operation of the
system.
Spud : means the threaded outlet connection from a water-closet or

urinal tank or inlet to a water-closet bowl.
Stack : means the vertical main pipe of soil or waste stack or vent pipe.
Storage cistern : means any cistern or water tank other than a flushing cistern in
which water is stored at atmospheric pressure, the water being
normally received through a float control valve set at a
predetermined level and incorporating an air gap.
Sub - drain : means a drain that is at a level lower than the building drain and
the building sewer.
Sump : means a watertight tank or pit that receives the discharge from a
sub-drain; and from which the discharge flows or is ejected into
drainage piping by pumping.
Supply pipe : means so much of any service pipe as is not a communication

pipe.
Surface water
drain : means a drain installed to collect surface water from an open
area and discharge it into a storm water sewer.
Trap : means a fitting or device so designed and constructed as to

provide, when properly vented, a liquid seal which will prevent
the back passage of foul air without materially affecting the flow
of sewage or waste water through it.
Trap seal : means the maximum vertical depth of' water that a trap retains to
prevent the passage of foul air back into the building and it is
measured between the crown weir and the top of the depth of
the trap.
Trap-standard : means a service sink which has its trap integral with the support
for the sink.
Trap weir : means the lowest point of the outlet leg of a trap.
Under drain : means a two pipe subsurface effluent disposal system with the
pipes laid at different elevations, with fine gravel media in
between.
Vent pipe : means a pipe installed to provide circulation of air within a

plumbing or drainage system to exhaust foul gases and to
protect trap seals from siphonage and back pressure.
Vertical : means not departing from the true vertical plane by more than
45 degrees.
1.6
Waste pipe : means a pipe which receives discharge from a waste water
appliance and conveys it to the building drain through a gully
trap.
Water distribution
pipe : means when used with reference to premises, a pipe which
receives either from a main or storage cistern/tank and conveys
into sanitary appliances and it includes a control valve and
fittings connected to it, but does not include a meter or control-
valve but does not include a meter.
Water main : means a water supply main pipe from the authority meant for
distribution of water to the public.
Water-outlet : means when used with reference to a water distributing pipe, an

opening at which water is discharged from the pipe to a faucet, a
boiler or a heating system, a water-operated device, or
equipment that is not part of the water distributing system; and
the atmosphere, unless discharged into an open tank forming
part of the water distribuiting system.
Water seal : means the depth of water in a trap, an interceptor or other similar
unit, between the point of overflow and the lower level of the
division separating the inlet and outlet meant for prevention of
foul air backflow into the system from either the drainage outside
or the sewer.
Water supply
system : means, when used with reference to a building, the water
service pipe, a storage cistern, distributing pipes, fittings and
connecting pipes, fittings, control valves and devices adjacent to
the building and under the control of the occupier thereof.
Water service
pipe : means any pipe supplying water from a main to a premises and
is subjected to water pressure from that main or would be
subjected to but for the closing of valves.
Waste water
unit : means a receptacle used for ablutionary purposes only, i.e.
bath, lavatory basin, kitchen sink, cleaners’ sink, laundry trays,
shower trays and any other similar fitting excepting WC & bidet.
1.7
TABLES OF CONTENT
SECTION 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................... 2.1

2.1 ADMINISTRATION ............................................................................................ 2.1
2.1.1 Scope ................................................................................................... 2.1
2.1.2 Approval ............................................................................................... 2.1
2.1.3 Application for Approval ....................................................................... 2.1
2.1.4 Plans and Specifications ...................................................................... 2.1
2.1.5 Duration of Approval ............................................................................ 2.2
2.1.6 Responsibility ....................................................................................... 2.2
2.2 UNITS OF MEASUREMENTS .......................................................................... 2.2
2.3 WORKMANSHIP ............................................................................................... 2.2
2.4 EXISTING BUILDINGS ..................................................................................... 2.2
2.5 CONNECTION TO SEWERAGE SYSTEM ....................................................... 2.2
2.6 CHANGES IN DIRECTION ................................................................................ 2.2
2.6.1 General ................................................................................................ 2.2
2.6.2 Soil/Waste Pipes .................................................................................. 2.3
2.6.3 Vent/water Pipes .................................................................................. 2.3
2.7 PROHIBITED FITTINGS AND CONNECTIONS ............................................... 2.3
2.8 DEAD ENDS ...................................................................................................... 2.4
2.9 SUPPORTS AND HANGERS ........................................................................... 2.4
2.9.1 Supports for Vertical Piping.................................................................. 2.4
2.9.2 Supports for Horizontal Piping ............................................................. 2.4
2.9.3 Hangers ................................................................................................ 2.5
2.9.4 Supports for Drains .............................................................................. 2.5
2.10 INSPECTION AND TESTING ........................................................................... 2.5
2.10.1 Notice of Inspection and Testing .......................................................... 2.5
2.10.2 New work ............................................................................................. 2.5
2.10.3 Existing Plumbing................................................................................. 2.6
2.10.4 Re-testing ............................................................................................. 2.6
2.10.5 Tests .................................................................................................... 2.6
2.10.6 Violations .............................................................................................. 2.6
2.10.7 Materials and Labour for Tests ............................................................ 2.6
2.10.8 Coverage of Work ................................................................................ 2.6
2.10.9 Method of Testing of Plumbing and Drainage Systems ....................... 2.6
i
2.10.10 Testing of Building Drains .................................................................... 2.8

2.10.11 Testing of Water Supply Systems ........................................................ 2.8
2.10.12 Inspections and Tests not Required..................................................... 2.8
2.10.13 Certificates of Approval ........................................................................ 2.8
LIST OF TABLES
Tables 2.1: Long sweep bends ................................................................................. 2.3
ii
SECTION 2
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
2.1 ADMINISTRATION
2.1.1 Scope
(1) This section specifies requirements for and gives recommendations on the
administration, units of measurement, design, workmanship, existing buildings,
connection to sewerage system, changes in direction, prohibited fittings and
connections, dead ends, supports and hangars, and inspection and testing of water
supply and sewerage systems of buildings.
2.1.2 Approval
(1) Except as provided in 2.1.2(3) herein, no connection shall be made with any sewer
and no construction, replacement re-construction, alteration, extension, or
disconnection of any plumbing system or part thereof shall be started until approval
to do so has been obtained from the Authority.
(2) Approval shall be granted only to qualified persons meeting the qualifications
prescribed by the Authority. Only technically qualified persons should be allowed to
design and supervise the plumbing works.
(3) Approval shall not be required for the repair of the working parts of a faucet or valve
the clearance of drain blockages, repairing of leaks or replacement of defective
faucets or valves provided that changes are not made in the piping to the fixtures in
conformity with clause 2.6 (1).
2.1.3 Application for Approval
(1) Application for approval shall be made to the Authority in accordance with the
requirements of the Building Regulations.
(2) A qualified and competent person of the authority shall inspect the work/site on
receipt of application and thereafter approval shall be done.
2.1.4 Plans and Specifications
(1) Every application for approval shall be submitted by a competent person

approved by the Authority and shall be accompanied by :
(a) a specification or abstract of the proposed works, and
(b) by plans, sections and isometric drawings of all relevant piping, fixtures
and appurtenances.
(2) After approval has been 'granted, no departure shall be made from the plan or
description submitted with the application, without the permission of the
Authority.
2.1
2.1.5 Duration of Approval
(1) Approvals shall be valid for 12 months or for such other periods as shall be
determined by the Authority.
2.1.6 Responsibility
(1) The approval by the Authority of plans, specifications and construction work
shall in no way relieve the plumber from responsibility for carrying out the work
in strictness in accordance with this Regulations.
2.2 UNITS OF MEASUREMENTS
(1) The metric units of measurements shall apply throughout this Regulations.
2.3 WORKMANSHIP
(1) All plumbing shall be installed in a workmanlike manner and shall

conform to the requirements of these Regulations; and all works shall be
subject to inspection and testing by the Authority.
2.4 EXISTING BUILDINGS
(1) In existing buildings in which the plumbing systems are to be altered,

repaired or renovated, alteration design must first be submitted to the
Authority for approval and to conform to these Regulations.
2.5 CONNECTION TO SEWERAGE SYSTEM
(1) Every building in which plumbing fixtures are installed shall have a
connection to a public sewer or private sewage disposal system.
2.6 CHANGES IN DIRECTION
2.6.1 General
(1) The centre line of a long-sweep bend of piping shall have a curvature
equal to that of the arc of a circle having a-radius not less than that
prescribed in Table 2.1.
2.2
Tables 2.1: Long sweep bends
Nominal minimum
Piping nominal size (mm) radius
32 60
38 65
50 80
60 95
75 110
90 120
100 130
125 155
150 180
200 230
250 300
300 325
375 370
2.6.2 Soil/Waste Pipes
(1) Changes in direction in horizontal soil pipe or waste pipe shall be

made by manholes or inspection chambers.
(2) Short-sweep quarter bends and sanitary tees may be used to effect a
change in direction of flow from horizontal to vertical.
(3) Accessible clean outs shall be installed at each change of direction of

the building drain greater than 45 degrees.
2.6.3 Vent/water Pipes
(1) Changes in direction in vent and water distributing pipes may be

made by appropriate use of quarters, sixth, eighth or sixteenth bends,
T's and use of equivalent fittings.
(2) Y's may be used in vent pipes.
(3) Tees and crosses may be used in vent pipes and in water distributing
pipes.
2.7 PROHIBITED FITTINGS AND CONNECTIONS
(1) No pipe or fitting with double hubs on the same run, and no double T shall be
used on soil or waste pipe.
(2) The drilling, tapping or welding of building drains, soil, waste, or vent pipes
and the use of saddle hubs or bends shall be prohibited.
(3) Every fitting, connection or joint shall be constructed and installed in such a
way that it does not reduce the free flow of liquid by more than 10 percent.
(4) Double Y fittings without access doors shall not be used on any horizontal
line.
2.3
(5) The waste pipe from a bath-tub or other fixture shall not discharge into a
water-closet bend or stack.
(6) No caulked cast iron fittings with double hubs shall be used except on a vent
pipe
(7) In waste plumbing a metal-laced union shall not be used except in a vent
pipe
2.8 DEAD ENDS
(1) Where a dead end is installed it shall be graded so that all moisture
accumulating in it shall drain back into the system.
(2) Every unconnected opening in drainage and vent piping, other than an
opening in an open air, shall be closed by air-tight metal capping with
plug.
2.9 SUPPORTS AND HANGERS
2.9.1 Supports for Vertical Piping
(1) Vertical piping shall be supported and anchored with strong metal rests,
clips and clamps or as approved by the Authority.
(2) Subject to the requirements of (3), (4), (5) and (6) below, rests, clips or
clamps shall be set not farther apart than the floor-levels of alternate
storeys, or 2 metres vertical distance, whichever is the less.
(3) Where pipes are offset or branched, the rests shall be placed at such
shorter intervals as shall be necessary to support and keep the pining in
alignment when full of liquid.
(4) A cast-iron soil pipe shall be supported at not less than every storey height
and at its base.
(5) Copper tubing, shall be supported at every storey, for piping 40mm nominal
diameter and over; and at not more than 1 metre intervals, for all piping
smaller than 40mm which dips and supports must be of copper, brass or
bronze.
(6) Rigid plastic pipe shall be supported at intervals not exceeding 1.0 metre.
2.9.2 Supports for Horizontal Piping
(1) Horizontal piping shall be supported and anchored with strong metal rests,
clips and clamps or as approved by the Authority which dips will be of
similar material to those of pipes to be supported or anchored to avoid
corrosion or electrolytic action.
(2) Subject to the requirements in subsection 1.9.1 the horizontal piping shall
be supported at points sufficiently close to prevent the pipe from sagging
when it is full of liquid, and to keep it in alignment.
2.4
2.9.3 Hangers
(1) Strap hangers may be used for any pipe of trade size up to and i n c l u d i n g
100mm.
(2) Ring hangers may be used for pipe of any trade size.
(3) Where a hanger of either type is used, it shall be of metal with
strength sufficient to support the load carried, and securely fixed to the
building.
(4) Where a hanger of either type is fixed to stone, brick, cement, concrete,
or other building material, the fixing shall be made by means of metal or
expansion type plugs inserted in the material.
(5) A hanger of either type supporting brass or copper pipe may be of the
same material as the pipe, but if of a material different from the pipe, it
shall be insulated to prevent electrolysis between the pipe and the
hanger.
2.9.4 Supports for Drains
(1) Where a drain is laid on unstable foundation such as a refuse tip, loose sand
or uncompacted made-ground, it shall be of cast iron on concrete bed, or
piers of brick, stone or concrete blocks.
(2) Where a concrete bed is used it shall not be less than 100mm thick, and
l50mm wider than the nominal diameter of the pipe
(3) Where piers are used, they shall have cross-section area each of not less
than 645cm2 at the point of contact with the pipe; and shall be at intervals of
not greater than 2.5 metres and extend down to a stratum of firm ground or
rock
(4) Where wrought iron or steel rod is placed underground to support piping, its
smallest dimension shall not be less than 20mm diameter.
2.10 INSPECTION AND TESTING
2.10.1 Notice of Inspection and Testing
(1) The plumbing contractor shall notify the Authority whenever any plumbing
work is completed and ready for inspection and testing.
(2) The plumbing works shall be deemed complete if a qualified and registered
plumber, or drain layer, certifies that the work has been carried out in
accordance with these Regulations.
2.10.2 New work
(1) All new plumbing works and any portions of existing systems that
may be affected by new works, or by any alterations, shall be
subject to inspection by the Authority.
(2) Where plumbing has been constructed, repaired, renewed or
altered, it shall not be put to use until it has been inspected and
found to conform to these Regulations.
2.5
2.10.3 Existing Plumbing
(1) Wherever there is a reason to believe that the plumbing system of any
building has become defective, it shall be subjected to inspection and
testing by the Authority.
(2) If any part of an existing plumbing system is found to be in such
condition that it is, or may become injurious, or dangerous to health,
the Authority shall, by written order, require the owner to make
changes, alterations or replacements as shall be deemed necessary by
the Authority.
2.10.4 Re-testing
(1) Where the work does not pass all aspects of the test, the plumber s h a l l
be required to make necessary rectification and the work shall then be
re-submitted for testing or inspection.
(2) Where the plumbing work is not approved by the Authority, the plumber
shall make such alterations, corrections, or replacement as shall be
required by the Authority, and the work shall be subjected to re-
inspection and test by the Authority.
2.10.5 Tests
(1) Tests shall be conducted in the presence of an inspector representing

the Authority.
2.10.6 Violations
(1) Notices of violations issued by the Authority shall be in writing and

delivered by mail or by recorded delivery to the person responsible at the
time the inspection was made.
2.10.7 Materials and Labour for Tests
(1) The equipment, materials, and labour necessary to assist in inspection or

testing shall be provided by the person to whom the permit is issued or by
whom inspection is requested.
2.10.8 Coverage of Work
(1) No plumbing system, or part of it shall be covered until it has been

inspected, tested and approved.
(2) Where a plumbing system or part of it is covered before inspection or
approval, the Authority shall give notice for the works to be uncovered for
inspection and testing.
2.10.9 Method of Testing of Plumbing and Drainage Systems
(1) Each drain shall be tested, where required by the Authority, by rolling
through it a ball made of hard material of sufficient weight to prevent it
2.6
from floating and thereafter fill it with water to one meter head for at least
24 hours. The drain shall be approved if there is no leakage.
(2) The diameter of the ball shall be 50mm for piping of 75mm diameter, or
larger and 25mm for smaller piping.
(3) All roughed-in-work, or pipe shall be tested with water, or smoke and after
the pluming fixtures have been set. the entire system shall be submitted
to smoke, or peppermint or chemical test, and the tests may be applied to
the plumbing and drainage system in its entirety, or in sections.
(4) Where the water test is applied to the entire system,
(a) all openings shall be tightly closed with proper testing plugs, or screw
caps except the highest opening above the roof;
(b) the system shall be filled with water to the point of overflow; and where
the system is tested in sections, each opening shall be tightly plugged
except the highest opening in that section;
(c) each section shall be filled with water, or subjected to not less than 3.0
metres head of water for testing purposes, and in testing successive
sections. at least the upper 1.5 metres of the last preceding section shall
be re-tested;
(d) the water shall be kept in the system, or the portion under test, for at least
15 minutes before inspection; and
(e) the system shall be tightened at all points.

(5) The smoke test shall be made by;
(a) filling all traps with water
(b) introducing into the entire system a pungent, thick smoke produced by
one or more smoke machines
(c) when the smoke appears at stack openings on the roof, the openings
shall be closed, and a pressure equivalent to a 25mm water column shall
be built up and maintained for period of not less than 15 minutes.
(6) (a) The final test of the complete drainage vent system may be either a
smoke test or a peppermint test;
(b) where the smoke test is preferred, it shall be made by filling all traps with
water then introducing into the entire system a pungent, thick smoke
produced by one or more smoke machines; and
(c) when the smoke appears at the stack openings of the roof, the opening
shall be closed and a pressure equivalent to a 25mm water column shall
be built and maintained for 15 minutes before inspection starts;
(d) where peppermint test is preferred, 60 grammes of oil peppermint shall
be introduced for each line of stack.
(7) After the fixtures shall have been set and connected, the system shall then
be subjected to an additional air or chemical test at pressure of at least
25mm of water.
(8) The Authority may apply any or all of the tests, or any other tests as shall he
deemed necessary.
2.7
2.10.10 Testing of Building Drains
(1) All building drains shall be tested.
(2) The test shall consist of plugging the end of building drain and filling it with
water and testing with not less than 1.5 metres of head applied for 24 hours;
and flow test as shall be approved by the Authority.
2.10.11 Testing of Water Supply Systems
(1) The inspector testing a potable water system, or a section of it shall

conduct the test at a time when the water entering that section is at 1.5
times the working pressure; and shall also ensure that all the air is
expelled before the outlets are closed and all the outlets are tightly
closed after the test.
(2) After the system or section has been subjected to pressure for not less
than one hour, the person carrying out the test shall, by visual
examination of all unconcealed pans; and by gauge tests, satisfy the
requirements that no water shall leak or seep out from any pipe, joint or
fitting, other than at outlet.
(3) The water used for testing shall be obtained from a potable source of
supply.
2.10.12 Inspections and Tests not Required
(1) No test or inspection shall be required after repair or replacing of a

fixture, faucet or valve, or after forcing out a stoppage or repairing leaks.
2.10.13 Certificates of Approval
(1) The Authority shall, on the satisfactory completion and final testing of
the plumbing system, issue a certificate of approval to the owner.
2.8
TABLES OF CONTENTS
SECTION 3: PLUMBING FIXTURES ..................................................................... 3.1

3.1 SCOPE .............................................................................................................. 3.1
3.2 MATERIALS ...................................................................................................... 3.1
3.2.1 Quality .................................................................................................... 3.1
3.2.2 Standards to be Compiled With .............................................................. 3.1
3.3 DELIVERY AND STORAGE ............................................................................. 3.1
3.4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................ 3.1
3.4.1 Sanitary accommodation ........................................................................ 3.1
3.4.2 Fixtures ................................................................................................... 3.2
3.4.3 Hygiene .................................................................................................. 3.2
3.4.4 Support ................................................................................................... 3.2
3.4.5 Installations ............................................................................................ 3.3
3.5 SELECTION AND INSTALLATION OF FIXTURES ......................................... 3.3
3.5.1 General ................................................................................................... 3.3
3.5.2 Bath-tubs ................................................................................................ 3.3
3.5.3 Shower Units .......................................................................................... 3.4
3.5.4 Bidets...................................................................................................... 3.4
3.5.5 Sinks ....................................................................................................... 3.5
3.5.6 Water Closet (WC) Pans ........................................................................ 3.5
3.5.7 WC Seats and Covers ............................................................................ 3.6
3.5.8 Water Closet Flushing Cisterns .............................................................. 3.6
3.5.9 Urinals .................................................................................................... 3.7
3.5.10 Wash Basins .......................................................................................... 3.8
3.5.11 Laundry Trays ........................................................................................ 3.9
3.5.12 Drinking Fountains ................................................................................. 3.9
3.5.13 Special Fixtures Including Laboratories ............................................... 3.10
3.5.14 Used Plumbing Fixtures ....................................................................... 3.10
3.5.15 Fixture Overflows.................................................................................. 3.10
3.5.16 Fixtures Strainers ................................................................................. 3.10
3.5.17 Floor Drains (floor waste gullies) ......................................................... 3.10
3.6 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE ............................................................... 3.10
3.6.1 Inspection ............................................................................................ 3.10
3.6.2 Maintenance ........................................................................................ 3.10
i
SECTION 3
PLUMBING FIXTURES
3.1 SCOPE
(1) This section deals with the selection, installation, and maintenance of plumbing
fixtures.
3.2 MATERIALS
3.2.1 Quality
(1) Every plumbing fixture shall be made of material that are smooth, hard,
impervious, corrosion-resistant, and free from flaws or defects.
3.2.2 Standards to be Compiled With
(1) All plumbing fixtures shall comply with the standards approved by the Authority.
3.3 DELIVERY AND STORAGE
(1) Before delivery, arrangements should be made for storage of fixtures under cover
to prevent damage.
(2) Upon delivery, all fixtures should be checked carefully to ensure that they satisfy
provisions of Section 3.2.
(3) Handling and storage of fixtures shall confirm to the manufacturer's and/or
supplier's instruction.
(4) All accessories such as traps, taps, brackets, seats, cisterns, etc. should be
checked and, if appropriate, grouped together.
3.4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
3.4.1 Sanitary Accommodation
(1) (a) Adequate ventilation of all sanitary accommodation including bath rooms
and kitchens should be provided.
(b) Windows or sky lights opening direct to the external air should be made
wherever possible.
(c) Where natural ventilation is not possible, mechanical ventilation should be
provided.
(2) (a) Care should be taken to prevent the transmission of noise from sanitary
fixtures to areas such as sitting rooms, class rooms and public areas.
(b) Noise can be reduced by proper attention to pipework, siting and fixing of
the fixture.
(3) Bath and shower compartments shall have walls constructed of smooth, non-
corrosive and non-absorbent waterproof material to a height of not less than
1.8m above the floor.
3.1
3.4.2 Fixtures
(1) Fixtures should be selected and installed to allow all connections to be correctly
made initially and so as to be easily disconnected for subsequent maintenance or
replacement.
(2) Where fixtures will be subjected to heavy use, as in public conveniences, schools,
hospitals, factories, etc., they should be robust in construction and designed to
withstand misuse.
3.4.3 Hygiene
(1) (a) Sanitary fixtures should be designed, assembled and fitted so as to avoid
harbouring dirt.
(b) Where fixtures abut a floor and/or a wall or walls, the joint between the
fixtures and the floor and/or the walls should be impermeable.
(2) Shower traps and surrounding areas should be cleansable specially in the case of
communal showers.
(3) (a) Sanitary fixtures should be installed in a manner to afford easy access for
cleaning.
(b) Fixtures having concealed slip-joints connections should be provided with

an access for or utility space so arranged as to make the slip connection
accessible for inspection and repair.
3.4.4 Support
(1) General
(a) The design, choice and fixing of supports for sanitary fixtures are important and
consideration should be given to the dead weight of fixtures the load which
may be placed in it or on it and the nature of the structure to which it is to be
fixed.
(b) All fixing screws should be of non-ferrous metal or stainless steel, and any low-
carbon steel in brackets or other supports should be galvanized, whether
subsequently painted or not.
(2) Brackets
(a) Brackets should be of adequate strength and securely fixed having regard to the
cantilever effect of the weight of the fixture fully loaded.
(3) Floor supports
(a) Larger and heavier sanitary fixtures, such as ablution fountains, shall be fixed
direct to the floor. Great care should also be taken to ensure that they are
bedded solidly on a level and even base.
(b) Other lighter fixtures such as WC pans and pedestal wash basins shall also be
fixed direct to the floor on a level and even base.
(c) Appliances on pedestals or legs shall be fastened to walls to give stability, except
in those cases where the whole fitting is designed to be self supporting.
3.2
3.4.5 Installations
(1) A fixture shall be installed in such a manner that it is readily accessible

for cleaning
(2) Where feasible, all pipes from a fixture shall be run along a wall, and any
pipe, or trap shall be adequately protected where it extends to within
300mm of the floor.
(3) A suitable access door shall be provided to facilitate repair and
replacement of the connection of a built-in bath tub and other built-in
fixture which has a concealed union, slip-joint, or gasket for water, or
waste connection.
3.5 SELECTION AND INSTALLATION OF FIXTURES
3.5.1 General
(1) Care should be taken at all times, and particularly after fixing, to protect fixtures
from damage. Glazed, enamelled and plated surfaces of fixtures can be
irreparably damaged by carelessness during subsequent operations.
(2) Water supply and discharge pipes should be installed before fixtures are put in
place. Before installing fixtures, it should be ensured that the discharge pipe is
clear of obstruction. Joints between fixtures and traps and/or pipes should be of
the union or detachable type.
(3) Cistern overflows should be arranged to give visible warning of discharge.
3.5.2 Bath-tubs
(1) Selection
(a) A bath tub shall be of durable material, smooth, hard, and impervious to
water and shall be equipped with a waste fitting of a size not smaller than
40mm nominal diameter.
(b) Bath-tub is intended for bodily immersion in a reclining position and it
should have a flat bottom with a fall to the outlet.
(c) Anti-slip surfaces, if provided, should not interfere with comfort or ease of
cleaning and draining.
(2) Installation
(a) Support should be adequate for the weight of the fixture, user and water and
sufficiently unyielding to obviate strain on service connections.
(b) Supports should be adjustable to permit a bath-tub should be horizontal and care
should be taken to make a permanently watertight seal between the wall and the
edge of the bath.
3.3
3.5.3 Shower Units
(1) Selection
(a) Shower receptacles, except bath tubs, shall be provided with waste fitting
not less than 35mm nominal diameter and shall have strainers.
(b) For purposes of these Regulations, a shower drain shall be considered a
fixture and shall be provided with trap and water seal which shall not be
less than 50mm.
(c) Bodily ablutions under running water are more hygienic than washing by
bodily immersion in a bath. In addition, a shower unit is more economical
in energy and water consumption and convenient to use.
(2) Installation
(a) (i) Shower units should be installed in rooms that are adequately ventilated to
reduce the possibility of condensation.
(ii) Adequate space should be provided to ensure convenience in use.
(iii) Shower trays should be laid on a smooth and structurally sound base and
shall be and made watertight with acceptable material.
(b) (i) Public shower rooms shall be drained in such a manner that no waste water
from any head will pass over areas occupied by other users.
(ii) Traps shall be constructed so that a shower tray may be securely fastened
to the trap at the Seepage entrance, making a watertight joint between the
shower tray and the trap.
3.5.4 Bidets
(1) Selection
(a) There are two main types of bidets:
(i) over-rim water feed;

(ii) submersible spray;
(2) Either of (1) above may be;
(a) with pedestal (more frequently fitted),
(b) or wall mounted (used where an unrestricted floor is required).
(3) Installation
(a) Pedestal bidets should be set on a level floor or bed.
(b) Where fixing screws are used, they should be non-ferrous or stainless
steel.
(c) Wall-hung type bidets may be fixed directly to load bearing walls by bolts,
or alternatively and for non-load bearing walls by bolting to a support
frame.
3.4
3.5.5 Sinks
(1) Selection
(a) Except as provided in these Regulations, a sink shall comply with the
requirements of section 3.2.1(1).
(b) Any sink, other than laboratory sink, shall be provided with a waste
fitting which shall be of a size not less than that of the trap to which it is
connected, and in no case less than 40mm nominal diameter.
(c) The most hard wearing material for sinks is stainless steel. Fire clay
sinks are hard wearing and strong but care has to be taken in the use
of utensils to avoid chipping, especially on the front edge of the sink.
Enamel steel sinks require careful use to prevent chipping the enamel.
(2) Installation
(a) Sinks fitted as an independent fixture shall be supported on cantilever

brackets wherever possible, in order to avoid the use of leg supports.
(b) Where sinks are built into table-top units, care shall be taken to seal the joint
between the bowl rim and the surround to prevent water seeping below the
surface of the table top.
3.5.6 Water Closet (WC) Pans
(1) Selection
(a) A water closet pan shall be made of vitreous china, or smooth

vitreous glazed earthenware, glazed fire clay, glazed stoneware or
any other approved materials which is smooth, hard, impervious,
corrosion-resistant and free from flaws or blemishes.
(b) A water closet shall be of siphon action, wash down, or reserve trap,
or blow-out type, or floor outlet type.
(c) A water closet pan shall be designed so that whenever the pan is
filled with water to the point of trap overflow, the volume is sufficient
to prevent fouling of the surface or the pan; and it shall have an
integral flushing rim so that the entire surface is flushed.
(d) A water closet pan shall be securely attached to the floor or wall and
shall be fitted with an approved seat made of a smooth impervious
material.
(e) (i) A single flushing should clear all normal faecal matter from the
WC pan, the flush being so distributed over the internal surface
of the pan as to cleanse every part thereof without any of the
contents or flushing water splashing on to the seat or the floor.
(ii) WCs should be selected so that noise produced while flushing is
minimum.
(f) Washdown WC pans have horizontal outlets and require purpose-made

connector to connect them to the drainage systems.
3.5
(g) Siphonic WC pans depend upon siphonic action generated in the trap for the
removal of the contents when flushed. The area of exposed water in siphonic
pans is usually greater than in the washdown type with less chance of the pan
being soiled. Siphonic WC pans have a quieter flush than washdown types
but are more prone to blocking.
(h) Squatting WC pans are designed to be used without a seat and consist of a
floor level bowl with a squatting plate, i.e impervious surround which normally
has slightly raised foot treads.
(2) Installation
(a) To prevent the penetration of moisture, the joint between the underside of
the WC pedestal and the floor should be sealed.
(b) All pedestal-type WC pans should be secured to the floor using stainless
steel or non-ferrous fixing screws.
(c) Where pedestal WC pans are installed on solid floors, it is essential that
provision be made in the floor to receive the fixing screws.
(d) If cement mortar is used for bedding (normally 1:3 mix), a thin layer should
be applied only to that part of the pedestal which is in contact with the floor.
(e) Wall-hung type WC pans may be fixed directly to load bearing walls by
bolts, or alternatively and for non-load bearing walls, by bolting to a support
frame.
3.5.7 WC Seats and Covers
(1) Selection
(a) WC seats and covers should be smooth and non absorbent. Ring seats
are the simplest type of seats and the most suitable for general use.
(b) Open-front seats are mostly used in male sanitary blocks in such buildings
as industrial and commercial premises and public conveniences, as being
less likely to be fouled than ring seat.
(2) Installation
(a) The seat and cover, where fitted, should be fixed direct to the WC pan with
hinges properly. Compressible protective washers should be used
between the hinge fixings and both sides of the ceramic ware. When
o
raised, all seats and covers should travel through an angle greater than 90
to ensure stability.
3.5.8 Water Closet Flushing Cisterns
(1) Selection
(a) A water closet flushing cistern shall have a capacity of not less than 9
litre; and shall incorporate symphonic flushing equipment or other
approved flushing device to ensure sufficient supply of water to flush
solids and soil out of the bowl.
(b) A flush pipe for a water closet tank shall not be less than 35mm
nominal diameter.
3.6
(c) A direct flush valve shall be installed in a manner that ensures that it
is readily accessible for repairs.
(d) All flush valves shall be of approved type and shall be provided with a
vacuum breaker.
(e) Means shall be provided for regulating the flow to flush valves.
(f) When the valve is operated, it shall complete the cycle of operation
automatically, opening fully and closing positively under the service
pressure.
(g) At each operation, the valve shall deliver water in sufficient volume
and at a rate that will thoroughly flush the fixture and refill the fixture
trap.
(h) Not more than one fixture shall be served by a single flush valve.
(i) The float-operated valve should close tight and be selected to suit the
water pressure and to ensure a refilling time of not longer than 2.0min.
(2) Installation
(a) Flushing cisterns may be:
(i) supported by direct wall fixing; or

(ii) supported by brackets of various types; or
(iii) close coupled to WC pan.
3.5.9 Urinals
(1) Selection
(a) General
(i) Every urinal shall have an approved flushing device.

(ii) Materials from which urinal shall be made shall satisfy the
requirements of 3.2.1(1) herein.
(iii) A urinal of siphon jet, blow-out, or pedestal type shall have a
flushing rim and trap integral with it and the water seal shall not
be less than 50 MM.
(iv) A stall-type urinal shall be connected to the soil pipe so that
water does not accumulate on the wall or flooring under the
fixture.
(v) The outlet of urinal shall be fitted with a trap and a domical
grating or other approved design.
(b) (i) Stall urinal is heavy, takes up more space, and, unless designed with
great care with all angles rounded, it is more difficult to keep clean.
(ii) It affords greater privacy than other types and is better able to
withstand rough usage.
(ii) Flushing should be by means of a spreader to each stall to clean the
whole surface likely to be fouled.
3.7
(c) (i) Bowl urinal are less restrictive to planning and are more suitable for
use where floor movement might occur.
(ii) Spreader should be provided to ensure that the flushing water
washes the whole of the internal surface of the bowl likely to be
fouled.
(iii) Bowl urinals are recommended only where responsibility in use can
be anticipated, as they are vulnerable to misuse.
(iv) Independent divisions securely bolted to the wall surface should be
used for privacy.
(d) (i) Trough urinals should be rigidly supported along the whole of their
length and should discharge to a trapped outlet.
(ii) Flushing may be by spreader or other means which can produce an
even curtain of water against the back of the urinal.
(iii) Trough urinals shall be smooth and non absorbent.
(2) Urinal flushing cisterns
(a) A urinal flushing cistern shall have-a water capacity of not less than
5 litres, a flush valve and a pipe connection to ensure sufficient
supply of water for flushing purposes.
(3) Urinal flush valves
(a) A flush valve may be of the goose-neck siphon type.

(b) A non-automatic direct flush valve shall not be used to flush more
than one urinal.
(4) Installation
(a) The area behind, under and around urinals should be carefully made
(made smooth and non-absorbent) to take into account water and urine
penetration.
(b) (i) The maximum run of channel (through urinal) to an outlet should not
exceed 2400.0 mm.
(ii) The floor surface should be non-slip and hard wearing.
(iii) Trough urinals should preferably be made so that the front lip is
600.0mm high for men and 500.0mm high for junior boys.
3.5.10 Wash Basins
(1) Selection
(a) Material for wash basin shall be in accordance with the requirements
of 3.2.1(1) and shall have a waste pipe of not less than 35mm
nominal diameter.
(b) Vitreous China basins serve most purposes.
3.8
(c) Fire clay can be used, but is subject to the disadvantage of chipping,
and it usually needs replacement.
(d) Stainless steel gives good service under most conditions.
(e) Porcelain channelled sheet steel is suitable for light duty, but better
service is usually obtained from porcelain channelled cast iron for
normal and heavy duty.
(f) A wash basin shall have an overflow, preferably the integral weir
type and a waste opening, which shall not be less than 32mm in
diameter which shall be equipped with a strainer with mesh not finer
than 4 mm.
(g) Where a stopper is used, the standing water in the fixture shall not
rise to the overflow pipe, nor remain in the overflow pipe whenever
the fixture is empty.
(2) Installation
(a) The following types of support are normally used for the installation of
wash basins:
(i) Wall fixing by means of built-in cantilever or brackets, screwed

brackets, or by screwing direct to the wall.
(ii) A pedestal securely fixed to the floor. The basin should be properly
bedded on the pedestal and anchored to the wall. It may be
advisable to carry the weight of the basin on wall fixings.
(iii) Insert into a table top. Care should be taken to seal the joint between
the rim and the surround to prevent water seeping below the surface
of the table top.
3.5.11 Laundry Trays
(1) A laundry tray shall be of strong dense concrete, or other approved

material moulded in one piece, with edges and corners rounded inside and
out and the sides and partitions shall not be less than 30 mm thick at the
top and 35 mm thick at the bottom and the bottom slab shall not be less
than 35 mm thick.
(2) The top edges of concrete laundry tray shall be protected with a rim of
zinc-coated steel, or other approved material securely bonded to the tray
and the corners of the rim shall be rounded to the satisfaction of the
Authority.
3.5.12 Drinking Fountains
(1) A drinking fountain shall be made of materials which are hard, smooth,
impervious, and free from chips and cracks, and shall be readily cleaned.
(2) Every drinking fountain shall be an orifice which shall be located above the
,
highest overflow level of the bowl and shall be shielded so that drinking is
by placing lips on the orifice and shall direct the water at an angle of
approximately 45 degrees upwards from horizontal.
(3) A drinking fountain shall be equipped with a regulator which shall control
the flow of water.
(4) Where the orifice has an effective opening not exceeding 100 square
millimetres in size, the nozzle shall be located such that the lower edge of
3.9
the orifice shall be less than 20 mm above the flood level rim of the
receptacle.
3.5.13 Special Fixtures Including Laboratories
(1) Sinks and special use fixtures shall be made of soap-stone or chemical
stoneware or shall be lined with copper alloy, nickel, steel, or other
approved materials.
3.5.14 Used Plumbing Fixtures

(1) Secondhand plumbing fixture shall not be reinstalled in new works.
3.5.15 Fixture Overflows
(1) An overflow pipe from a fixture shall be connected to the inlet side of the
trap and shall be located such that it is readily cleaned.
(2) The overflow fitting shall be designed such that the standing water in the
fixture does not rise in the overflow whenever the stopper is closed, nor
remain in the overflow whenever the fixture is empty.
3.5.16 Fixtures Strainers
(1) Other than a water closet, a full flush urinal, clinical service sink, bed pan
washer or similar fixtures shall be provided with strong metallic, porcelain
or other approved strainer.
3.5.17 Floor Drains (floor waste gullies)
(1) A floor drain in any room where food, or beverage is stored, or prepared,
or served, or where a plumbing fixture, other than a laundry tray, or wash
basin is installed, shall be considered as fixture and shall be made of
approved materials and shall have a trap, and vent in accordance with the
Regulations.
(2) Floor drains shall be rust resistant and provided with removable strainers or
gratings.
(3) Floor drains shall be of a size to serve sufficiently the purpose for which they are
intended (see Clause 6.4.5).
3.6 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
3.6.1 Inspection
(1) Upon completion of the work, all fixtures, materials and workmanship should be
carefully examined for defects and for faults in installation which should be
corrected before the fixtures are handed over for use.
3.6.2 Maintenance
(1) General
(a) Fixtures should be cleaned frequently to maintain them in good sanitary

condition and to preserve their appearance.
3.10
(b) The removal of faulty tap and valve washers should receive prompt
attention to avoid waste of water and damage to the valve seating and the
surface of the fixture.
(c) Cleaning materials containing corrosive alkalis, abrasives or acids should
not be used because they damage fixtures and/or discharge pipe.
(d) The instruction of the manufacturer of the fixtures and of the cleaning
and/or de-scaling materials should be followed.
(2) Removal of scale and encrustation
(a) For the removal of scale, encrustation and other deposits, acid and alkali-
based cleaning materials should be used with caution to avoid damage to
the appliance and pipework and/or injury to the cleaning operatives.
3.11
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 4: DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY ................................................................ 4.1

4.1 SCOPE .............................................................................................................. 4.1
4.2 MATERIALS ...................................................................................................... 4.1
4.2.1 General ................................................................................................... 4.1
4.2.2 Used Materials ....................................................................................... 4.1
4.2.3 Choice of Material .................................................................................. 4.1
4.2.4 Pipes and Fittings ................................................................................... 4.2
4.3 JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS .......................................................................... 4.3
4.3.1 General ................................................................................................... 4.3
4.3.2 Jointing of Pipes ..................................................................................... 4.3
4.3.3 Connections Between Different Materials .............................................. 4.5
4.3.4 Jointing pipes to cisterns ........................................................................ 4.5
4.4 QUALITY OF WATER SUPPLY ........................................................................ 4.6
4.4.1 General .................................................................................................. .4.6
4.4.2 Potable Water ......................................................................................... 4.6
4.4.3 Non-potable Supply ................................................................................ 4.7
4.5 PRESERVATION OF WATER QUALITY .......................................................... 4.7
4.5.1 General ................................................................................................... 4.7
4.5.2 Prevention of Unsuitable Materials in Contact with Water ..................... 4.8
4.5.3 Prevention of Backflows ......................................................................... 4.9
4.5.4 Prevention of Contamination of Water by Cross Connection .............. 4.11
4.6 COLD WATER SUPPLY ................................................................................. 4.12
4.6.1 General ................................................................................................. 4.12
4.6.2 Types of Systems ................................................................................. 4.12
4.6.3 Storage Cisterns(Tanks) ...................................................................... 4.12
4.6.4 Stopcocks and Valves .......................................................................... 4.17
4.6.5 Isolating Valves .................................................................................... 4.19
4.6.6 Pumps and Equipment ......................................................................... 4.19
4.6.7 Water Meters ........................................................................................ 4.21
4.7 HOT WATER SUPPLY .................................................................................... 4.21
4.7.1 General ................................................................................................. 4.21
4.7.2 Types of System ................................................................................... 4.21
4.7.3 Cold Feed and Hot Water Distribution Pipes ........................................ 4.22
4.7.4 Re-circulation System .......................................................................... 4.23
4.7.5 Hot Water Storage Capacity ................................................................. 4.23
4.7.6 Water Storage Temperature ................................................................. 4.24
i
4.7.7 Energy Conservation ............................................................................ 4.24

4.7.8 Installation of Hot Water Storage Heaters ............................................ 4.24
4.7.9 Safety Devices ..................................................................................... 4.25
4.8 PIPE SIZING .................................................................................................... 4.27
4.8.1 General ................................................................................................. 4.27
4.8.2 Flows of Appliances, Loading Units and Design Flows ........................ 4.28
4.8.3 Water Service Pipe ............................................................................... 4.28
4.8.4 Distribution and Branch Supply Pipes .................................................. 4.29
4.8.5 Water Supply to Fixtures ...................................................................... 4.29
4.8.6 Minimum Pressure ............................................................................... 4.30
4.8.7 Water Hammer ..................................................................................... 4.30
4.9 ACCESSIBILITY OF PIPES AND WATER FITTINGS .................................... 4.31
4.9.1 General ................................................................................................. 4.31
4.9.2 Pipes Passing Through Walls and Floors ............................................ 4.31
4.9.3 Pipe in Walls and Floors ....................................................................... 4.32
4.9.4 Pipes in Ceilings ................................................................................... 4.32
4.9.5 Underground Stop Valves .................................................................... 4.32
4.9.6 Aboveground Valves ............................................................................ 4.33
4.9.7 Cisterns ................................................................................................ 4.33
4.10 INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK ................................................................... 4.33
4.10.1 Handling of Materials ............................................................................ 4.33
4.10.2 Pipework in Buildings ........................................................................... 4.33
4.10.3 Underground Pipe Laying ..................................................................... 4.36
4.10.4 Cleaning and Disinfection of the Supply System .................................. 4.40
4.10.5 Identifying and Recording Piping Locations ........................................ 4.42
4.11 INSPECTION, TESTING AND COMMISSIONING ......................................... 4.42
4.11.1 General ................................................................................................. 4.42
4.11.2 Procedure ............................................................................................. 4.42
4.11.3 Inspection ............................................................................................. 4.43
4.11.4 Leakage Testing ................................................................................... 4.43
4.11.5 Testing of Installations within Buildings ................................................ 4.43
4.11.6 Testing of Underground Pipelines ........................................................ 4.43
4.12 MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................. 4.44
4.12.1 General ................................................................................................. 4.44
4.12.2 Pipework ............................................................................................... 4.44
4.12.3 Terminal Fittings and Valves ................................................................ 4.44
4.12.4 Cisterns ................................................................................................ 4.45
ii
4.12.5 Ducts .................................................................................................... 4.45

4.12.6 Vessels Under Pressure ....................................................................... 4.45
4.12.7 Disconnection of Unused Pipes and Fittings ....................................... .4.46
4.12.8 Pumps .................................................................................................. 4.46
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 4.1: Backflow caused by pump installation ................................................... 4.9

Figure 4.2 : Vertical cross-sections showing effective capacity of storage ............. 4.16
Figure 4.3: Typical installation in a trench ............................................................... 4.38
Figure 4.4: Laying of water supply pipe work in same trench as foul drains. .......... 4.39
Figure 4.5 : Typical location of thrust blocks. .......................................................... 4.41
LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.1: WHO Guidelines for drinking water quality ............................................. 4.6
Table 4.2 : Minimum air gap [mm] .......................................................................... 4.11
Table 4.3 : Recommended minimum storage of water for domestic uses ............ 4.17
Table 4.4: Isolating valves for water services ........................................................ 4.19
Table 4.5 : Maximum lengths of uninsulated distributing pipes .............................. 4.23
Table 4.6 : Recommended minimum storage of hot water for domestic uses ...... 4.24
Table 4.7: Minimum pipe size of fixtures ............................................................... 4.30
Table 4.8 : Flow rates and loading units ................................................................. 4.31
Table 4.9: Maximum water velocities in pipe work ................................................ 4.32
Table 4.10: Spacing of brackets and clips ............................................................... 4.35
Table 4.11: Minimum cover for pipes ...................................................................... 4.36
iii
SECTION 4
DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY
4.1 SCOPE
(1) This section specifies requirements for and gives recommendations on the design,
installation, testing and maintenance of services supplying water for domestic use
within buildings and their cartilage.
(2) It covers the system of pipes, fittings and connected appliances (fixtures) installed
to supply buildings.
(3) This section deals only with low temperature systems; it does not cover systems
that are designed to operate with steam or high temperature hot water.
4.2 MATERIALS
4.2.1 General
(1) All materials shall be free from defects that affect their usefulness for their intended
purposes.
(2) Every length of pipe and every fitting shall have cast, stamped or indelibly marked
on it the maker's name or mark and the weight or class or quality of the product, or
it shall be marked in accordance with the relevant standard and such markings
shall be visible after installation.
4.2.2 Used Materials
(1) Used materials shall not be installed in new works.
4.2.3 Choice of Material
(1) The following factors shall be taken into account in selecting materials used in a
water service:
(a) Cost,
(b) Effect on water quality,
(c) Internal and external corrosion,
(d) Compatibility of different materials,
(e) Ageing, fatigue and temperature effects,
(f) Mechanical properties,
(g) Durability.
(2) Every part of a water installation shall be cable of operating effectively under the
conditions which it will experience in service. Accordingly:
(a) Every pipe, pipe joint and connected fitting shall be capable of withstanding,
0
without damage or deterioration, sustained temperature up to 40 C for cold
0
water installations and up to 70 C, with occasional short-term excursions up
0
to 100 C to allow for malfunctions, for heated water installations.
4.1
(b) Every draw-off tap shall be capable of operating effectively at any water
temperature and internal water pressure to which it is to be subject.
(c) Discharge pipes connected to temperature or expansion relief valves shall

be capable of withstanding any continuous hot water or steam discharge at
0
temperatures up to 125 C.
(3) (a) If pipes, pipe joints or connected fittings are of dissimilar metals, necessary
measures shall be taken to prevent corrosion.
(b) Dissimilar metals should be avoided in below-ground installations where

ever practicable.
4.2.4 Pipes and Fittings
(1) Specifications for materials
(a) All pipes and fittings for the water supply system shall conform to the
requirements of the Standards approved by the Authority.
(2) Lead
(a) No pipe or other water-fittings or storage cistern made from lead or internally
lined with lead shall be used in new installations.
(b) Repairs to existing lead services shall be by replacement with other materials.
(c) The repair or partial replacement of lead piping with copper piping shall be
avoided unless galvanic action is prevented.
(3) Copper
(a) Copper is generally resistant to corrosion and is suitable for hot and cold
water applications. Where supply waters are capable of dissolving an undue
amount of copper such that either,
(i) unacceptable green staining is produced, or

(ii) deposition of copper into aluminium or zinc surfaces promotes galvanic
attack, consideration shall be given to the use of alternative materials.
(b) Galvanized steel pipework should not be used connected to and, especially,
downstream from copper pipework; otherwise it will be subject to accelerated
corrosion.
(4) Galvanized steel
(a) Galvanized steel pipe shall be jointed only by screwed connections, under no
circumstances shall welded or brazed joints be used because this would
damage the galvanizing. Site bending of galvanized tube will also damage
the galvanizing so where it is necessary to change direction pre-formed bends
shall be used. Galvanized tubes offer only marginal protection against
corrosion, and shall be protected from corrosion especially where installed
below ground.
4.2
(5) Plastic pipes
(a) Plastic pipes shall not be installed close to source of heat or indirect
sunlight, otherwise their performance is impaired.
(b) Where pipes are installed above ground, consideration shall be given to
accommodate thermal movements.
(c) As unplasticized PVC pipes become increasingly brittle with reducing
temperatures, particular care should be taken in handling them in
o
temperatures below 5 C.
(d) The use and installation of polyethylene pipes and their fittings for the
supply of potable water shall comply with the requirements of section 4.2.4
(1).
(6) Coating and Lining Materials
(a) No pipe, pipe fitting or storage cistern intended for conveying or storing
water shall be lined or coated internally with coal, tar or any substance that
includes coal tar.
(b) Recommendations for the protective coating against corrosion of iron and
steel pipes, fittings and cisterns should be referred in approved standards.
4.3 JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS
4.3.1 General
(1) All joints shall be made in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
(2) Care shall be taken to establish satisfactory jointing techniques for all water
services pipework.
(3) All piping and fittings shall be cleaned internally and be made free from particles of
sand, soil, metal fillings and chips.
(4) Every joint between pipes, or between the pipes and fittings, shall be made in a
manner commensurate with, or appropriate to the materials from which the pipes
and fittings are manufactured.
(5) Every joint and connection in a potable water system shall be watertight under an
internal water pressure of not less than that prescribed for the class of pipe
installed.
(6) Where, during installation or at any time before inspection, piping, or joint of fitting
is damaged in such a way that it shall leak when subjected to the prescribed test,
the damaged piping joint or fitting shall be removed from the system and replaced
by a new one.
4.3.2 Jointing of Pipes
(1) Iron pipes
(a) The spigot and socket joints of iron pipes are usually caulked with lead. The
common form of joint is made by first caulking spun yarn, which shall be clean and
sterile, then filling the remainder of the joint space by running in molten lead, taking
care that no dross enters the joint and then thoroughly caulking the lead. The lead
need not extend into the joint further than the back of the groove formed in the
socket.
4.3
(b) Flanged connections shall be made with screwed or cast on flanges as specified in
(2) below for steel pipes.
(2) Steel pipes
(a) Welded joints shall not be used where a protective lining would be damaged
by heat.
(b) (i) Screwed joints in steel piping shall be made with screwed socket
joints using wrought-iron, steel or malleable cast iron fittings.
(ii) Exposed threads left after jointing shall be painted or, where installed
underground, thickly coated with bituminous or other corrosion
preventive.
(c) Flanged joints shall be made with screwed socket or welded flanges of
steel or cast iron using jointing rings and, if necessary, a suitable jointing
paste. The nuts shall be carefully tightened, in opposite pairs, until the
jointing ring is sufficiently compressed between the flanges for a watertight
joint.
(3) Copper pipes
(a) The type of fitting and jointing methods shall be in accordance with the
manufacturer's recommendations.
(4) Unplasticized PVC pipes
(a) Mechanical joints in unplasticized PVC piping shall be made by the use of
push-fit integral elastometric sealing rings which are compressed when the
plain ended pipes are inserted in the adjoining sockets. The plain pipe
ends shall be chamfered and the surfaces cleaned and lubricated. The
chamfered pipe ends shall be inserted fully into the adjoining socket or as
far as any locating mark put on the spigot end by the manufacturer. The
sealing rings shall comply with approved standard.
(b) Compression joints shall be of the non-manipulative type. Care shall be

taken to avoid over-tightening.
(c) (i) Solvent-cement-welded joints in unplasticized PVC piping shall be

made using a solvent cement complying with approved standards
recommended by the manufacturer of the pipe.
(ii) The dimensions of the spigots and sockets shall comply with
approved standards.
(d) Below ground and in confined location above ground, mechanical joints
should be used in preference to solvent-cement joints due to the difficulty
in making satisfactory solvent-cement joints in such adverse conditions. In
accessible positions above ground, solvent-cement joints can be used.
(e) Flanged joints used for connections to valves and fittings shall be with
corrosion resistant or immune backing rings and bolting.
(5) Polyethylene pipes
(a) Mechanical joints shall be made using either plastics or metal compression
fittings, e.g. brass or malleable iron. These shall include insert liners to
support the bore of the pipe except where the manufacturer of the fitting
instructs otherwise.
4.4
(b) To ensure satisfactory jointing of the materials from which the pipe and
fittings are made, compatibility shall be established. The manufacturer's
instructions shall be carefully followed.
(c) No attempt shall be made to join polyethylene piping by solvent-cement

welding.
4.3.3 Connections Between Different Materials
(1) Aboveground pipework
(a) The use of different pipe materials shall be avoided as far as practicable
unless when parts of an existing service are to be replaced or extended.
(b) When connections are to be made, adaptor couplings shall be used

wherever possible.
(c) Where suitable adaptors are not available for the particular joint required,
both materials shall be adapted to threaded ends which shall be screwed
together, if male and female, or shall be connected by a nipple, socket or
union.
(2) Below ground pipe work
(a) Joints in buried pipework shall be kept to the absolute minimum and joints
between pipes of different materials shall be restricted to connections
between large supply pipes similar to suppliers' mains and pipes serving
individual buildings.
(b) Service connections to cast iron and steel pipes shall be made by drilling
and tapping the pipe and screwing in a copper or copper alloy union
ferrule.
(c) The smaller pipes shall be connected by any appropriate method
described below.
(i) for making service connections to unplasticized PVC pipes, a saddle

shall be fixed round the larger pipe and a ferrule screwed into the
saddle. The saddle manufacturer's instructions shall be complied in
all aspects.
(ii) service connections to polyethylene pipes shall be made using either
a saddle-fusion fitting or a self-tapping saddle.
(iii) branch pipes shall be connected to a main pipe by using ferrule or
Tee (leadless collar), depending upon the sizes of the pipes to be
jointed.
4.3.4 Jointing Pipes to Cisterns
(1) General
(a) Cisterns or tanks shall be properly supported to avoid undue stress on the
pipe connections and holes shall be correctly positioned for the connection
of pipes to cisterns.
(b) All debris, filings and borings shall be removed from the inside of the
cistern.
4.5
(2) Steel pipes to steel or glass reinforced plastics cisterns
(a) The threaded end of the pipe shall be secured in the hole in the cistern
either by backnuts and washers both inside and outside or by using bolted
or welded flanged connections.
(3) Copper or plastics pipe to steel, or glass reinforced plastics cisterns
(a) A copper alloy connector or equivalent having a shoulder to bear on the

outside of the cistern and secured by a backnut to the inside shall be used.
Corrosion resistant washers shall be used both on the inside and the
outside of the cistern.
(b) Connection by copper pipework to galvanized steel cisterns is not

recommended because of the risk of galvanic corrosion.
(4) Concrete cisterns
(a) Connections to concrete cisterns shall be made with short thread (with or
without flanged connections) having a puddle flange either cast or welded
on. Care shall be taken to ensure that the connections are properly
aligned both in the horizontal and vertical planes when being cast into the
concrete, which shall be compacted around the puddle flange to ensure a
watertight joint.
4.4 QUALITY OF WATER SUPPLY
4.4.1 General
(a) Public water suppliers are obliged to provide a supply of wholesome water which is
suitable and safe for drinking and culinary purposes.
4.4.2 Potable Water
(a) Potable water is water which is satisfactory for drinking, culinary and domestic
purposes. Water quality standards may be set by regional, national or
international bodies. Guidelines for drinking water quality have been established
by the World Health Organization (WHO) as shown in Table 4.1.
Table 4.1: WHO Guidelines for drinking water quality
Parameter Unit Guideline Value

Microbiological Quality
Feacal coliforms number/100ml Zero*
Coliform organisms number/100ml Zero*
Inorganic Constituents
Arsenic mg/l 0.05
Cadmium mg/l 0.005
Chromium mg/l 0.05
Cyanide mg/l 0.1
Fluoride mg/l 1.5
Lead mg/l 0.05
Mercury mg/l 0.001
Nitrate mg/l(N) 10
Selenium mg/l 0.01
4.6
Parameter Unit Guideline Value

Aesthetic Quality
Aluminium mg/l 0.2
Chloride mg/1 250
Colour True colour unit (TCU) 15
Copper mg/l 1.0
Hardness mg/l(as CaCo3) 500
Iron mg/l 0.8
Manganese mg/l 0.3
PH 6.5 to 8.5
Sodium mg/l 200
Total dissolved solids mg/l 1000
Sulphate mg/l 400
Taste and odour Inoffensive to most
consumers
Turbidity NTU 5
Zinc mg/l 5.0
* Treated water entering the distribution system
4.4.3 Non-potable Supply
(a) Non-potable water may be used for flushing water closets and urinals and other
appliances not requiring potable water, provided such water shall not be
accessible for drinking or culinary purposes.
(b) For the purpose of preventing non-potable water being mistaken for potable water,
all piping distributing non-potable water shall be identified by distinct, easily
recognizable, permanent marking and shall not be accessible as a supply of water
for drinking, or for preparation of food.
(c) Non-potable water shall not be distributed to any part of food-processing
establishment or where food is processed.
4.5 PRESERVATION OF WATER QUALITY
4.5.1 General
(1) Water supply installations shall be constructed so that water delivered is not
liable to become contaminated to the extent that it is a hazard to health or is unfit
for its intended use.
(2) The installation in (1) above, in particular, shall not adversely affect drinking water
in any of the following ways:
(a) By materials in contact with water being unsuitable for the purpose;
(b) By cross connection between pipes conveying water supplied by the water
undertaker with pipes conveying water from some other source;
(c) By stagnation particularly at high temperatures; or
(d) As a result of backflow of water from water-fittings or water-using

appliances into pipework connected to mains or to other fittings and
appliances.
(3) No connection shall be made in a potable water system through which any
foreign matter or non-potable water may enter the potable water system.
4.7
(4) No person shall interfere with a potable water system in a manner which may
cause the water to become non-potable.
(5) No pipe or fitting that has been used for any purpose other than the
distributing, of potable water shall be installed in a potable water system.
(6) A potable water system shall be separated from and be independent of a supply
system for non-potable water.
(7) No pipe conveying non-potable water or sewage shall be installed where it may
contaminate the water in a tank for potable water that is not a sealed tank, or any
food-handling equipment.
(8) No part of a sewage ejector shall be connected to any part of a potable water
system.
(9) Every well pump, filter, softener, appliance, or device connected to a potable
water system shall be provided with such covers, walls, copings. or casings as
shall entirely exclude superficial ground or surface water and other sources of
contamination.
4.5.2 Prevention of Unsuitable Materials in Contact with Water
(1) Unsuitable internal coating of pipes and cisterns
(a) Pipes, water fittings and storage cisterns made from or internally lined with
lead shall not be used in any new installation or to replace any existing
lead pipe or lead lined cistern.
(b) No pipe, fitting or storage cistern shall be lined or coated internally with
coal tar or with any material which will affect the potability of the water.
(2) Pipe laying in contaminated areas
(a) No pipe or fitting shall be laid in, on or through foul soil, refuse, sewer,
cesspool or refuse chute or any manhole connected with them or any
substance that might have an adverse effect on water quality unless the
pipe is:
(i) laid through a water tight, corrosion-resistant conduit of sufficient

length and strength to afford adequate protection to the pipes, or
(ii) fixed not less than 600.0mm above the surface of the ground likely to
be contaminated.
(b) No plastic pipe shall be laid where oil or petrol leakage or spillage could be
expected to occur (unless suitable measures are taken to prevent contact
of any oil or petrol with the plastic pipes) or where possible migration of
petroleum materials and phenols from contaminated soils might occur.
4.8
4.5.3 Prevention of Backflows
(1) General
(a) The water distribution system shall be protected from backflow;

and every water outlet protected from backflow, preferably by
having the outlet end from which the water flows, spaced a
distance above the flood-level rim of the receptacle into which
the water flows sufficient to provide a minimum required air gap.
(b) Positive measures shall be taken to prevent:
(i) the ingress of contaminated water to any part of a water installation,

(ii) the backflow of water from the installation to the supply mains; and
(iii) pumping on supply pipes (without the permission of the water
supplier) which may cause backflow in adjacent pipes as shown in
Figure 4.1.
Figure 4.1: Backflow caused by pump installation
(c) The minimum air gap required between a faucet, spout or distribution
pipe supplying potable water, a fixture and the flood level rim or top
surface water level of the fixture shall not be less than 50mm for
dwelling houses, and not less than three times the effective diameter of
the inlet valve for other buildings .
(d) Air gaps shall be measured between the lowest point of the discharging
pipe and the invert of the overflow of the fixture or tank.
(2) Back-flow preventers
(a) In these Regulations, critical level means the horizontal plane at which a
backflow preventer functions.
(b) Subject to the requirements of subsection (d) below, where it is not
practicable to provide an air gap as specified, a backflow preventer may
4.9
be installed on the distributing, pipe in a readily accessible position

between the last valve on the distributing pipe and the outlet.
(c) A backflow preventer shall be installed in a manner so that its critical
level is above the flood-level rim of the fixture, or the highest possible
water level in the tank, a vertical distance of which shall not be less than
four times the diameter of the inlet of the control valve, or 100 mm,
whichever is the greater.
(d) Where a tank that is not a pressure tank is constructed or located in
such a way that it is not practicable to provide the minimum air gap above
the flood-level rim of the tank, or to install a back-flow preventer:
(i) the tank shall have an over-flow outlet consisting of a channel or
pipe below the flood level rim and below all pipes supplying water
to the tank;
(ii) the vertical distance from the lowest point of any of the supply
pipes to the top of the over-flow outlet shall be not less than one
and half time the minimum air gap;
(iii) the total effective opening of the overflow outlets shall be such
that, when water is flowing into the tank at maximum rate with all
inlets fully opened and all outlets closed except the overflow
outlets, water shall not rise to a point above the top of the highest
over-flow outlet a distance greater than one half the minimum air
gap;
(iv) the overflow shall have unobstructed discharge to the open
air;
(vi) the channel or pipe shall have unobstructed discharge
cross-section area throughout its length of not less than the
effective opening of the outlet; and
(vii) the discharge end of the overflow pipe shall be fitted with a
stack flap of approved design and material to prevent the
entry of all foreign matter.
(3) Draw-off taps
(a) Every draw-off tap or similar fitting installed to discharge water into a sink,
wash basin, bath or similar appliance shall be installed so that the vertical
distance between the point of discharge of the fitting and the spill-over level
of the receiving appliance shall not be less than that indicated in Table 4.2
for the size of the fittings concerned.
(b) Where it is not possible to provide a minimum air gap, the water outlet
shall be protected with approved method of backflow prevention
satisfactory to the Authority.
(4) Backflow protection for bidets
(a) Every bidet connected to a supply pipe shall be:
(i) of the over-rim water fed type, and

(ii) installed and arranged so that the vertical distance between each
point of discharge of water and the spill-over level of the bidet shall
not be less than that indicated in Table 4.2 for the size of the water
inlet fitting concerned.
(b) Every bidet that does not comply with 4 (a) above, and, in particular, every
ascending-type bidet shall be supplied with water by one of the following
methods:
4.10
(i) Hot and cold water supplies shall each pass through a protected
cistern providing an air gap indicated in Table 4.2 before being
mixed, if required, and fed to the bidet. The cisterns concerned shall
not be connected to any other point of draw-off or use of water
except a draining tap.
(ii) Hot and cold water supplies shall be connected to a separate float-
operated valves controlling flow into a single protected cistern in
which mixing takes place from which water is drawn to supply the
bidet.
(iii) Other approved methods satisfactory to the Authority.
(5) Pipes conveying water to cisterns
(a) Every supply pipe conveying water to a cistern (whether or not fitted to a
float-operated valve) shall be provided with air gaps (see Table 4.2) above
the spill-over level of the cistern if:
(i) the cistern receives or contains any substance harmful to health, or;
(ii) the cistern is a flushing cistern or is holding water for non-domestic
purposes.
(b) Paragraph 5 (a) (ii) above shall not apply to a supply pipe conveying water
to a cistern:
(i) holding water supplied for domestic purposes and complying with
Clause 4.6.3 for which no protection is required;
(ii) fitted with a float operated valve of a reducing flow type which will
prevent back siphonage through it if a vacuum occurs in the feed
pipe.
Table 4.2 : Minimum air gap [mm]
Diameter of the effective Minimum

opening of water service air gap
<9 20
> 9 < 12 25
> 12 < 20 40
>20 < 25 50
>25 2 x effective
opening
4.5.4 Prevention of Contamination of Water by Cross Connection
(1) No supply pipe or cistern used for conveying or receiving water supplied by a public
water supplier shall be connected so that it can receive or convey water for any
non-domestic purpose or water that is not supplied by a public water supplier,
except where the water supplied by a public water supplier is discharged into a
cistern through an air gap (Refer 4.5.3(5) above).
4.11
4.6 COLD WATER SUPPLY
4.6.1 General
(1) Any cold tap which is likely to be used for drinking water and all such taps not
connected directly to the suppliers mains shall be supplied from a storage cistern
which is protected in accordance with section 4.5.
(2) No drinking water point shall be installed at the end of a long pipe where only small
volumes of water are drawn-off.
(3) To reduce the risk of stagnation, the layout of the pipework should be arranged,
where possible, so that fittings down-stream of a drinking water point have a high
demand.
4.6.2 Types of Systems
(1) Direct connection from mains
(a) Water shall be supplied to cold taps either directly from mains via a service
pipe or indirectly from a cold water storage cistern protected in accordance
with section 4.5. In some cases, a combination of the two methods may be
the best arrangement.
(b) Not withstanding the requirements in (a) above, the method of supply shall
be related to the size and usage of the building and the number of
appliances to be served. The method of supply shall also consider the
need for balancing consumption and pressure regulation.
(2) Pumped systems
(a) Where the available pressure is insufficient to supply the whole of a

building and the water supplier is unable to increase the supply pressure in
the suppliers mains, consideration shall be given to installing a pumped
system ?
4.6.3 Storage Cisterns(Tanks)
(1) General
(a) Storage cisterns and their lids for domestic water supply purposes should
not impart taste, colour, odour or toxicity to the water, nor promote
microbial growth (Refer 4.5.2(1)above).
(b) Storage cisterns above 5000.00 L capacity should preferably be divided
into two or more compartments to avoid interruption of the water supply
when carrying out repairs or maintenance of the cistern.
(c) Any cistern from which water for domestic purposes may be drawn shall
be:
(i) a water tight vessel having a tight fitting,

(ii) where necessary, lined or coated with a material suitable for use in
contact with potable water and must not deform unduly in use,
(iii) where necessary, insulated against heat,
(iv) with access for inspection and maintenance,
4.12
(v) supported on a firm level base capable of withstanding the weight of

the cistern when filled with water to the rim
(vi) provided with inlet (including float-operated control valve as in
4.6.3(5)), outlet, overflow and drain pipes.
(d) Every public, commercial and industrial buildings shall be provided with
water storage tanks/cisterns, such that the total storage capacity
of the tanks/cisterns, is enough for not less than twenty-four-
hours water supply to the buildings.
(e) A tanks other than pressure tanks shall be protected against
contamination and pollution.
(f) Overflow pipe of adequate size shall be provided in water storage
tanks/cisterns, and in no case shall the overflow pipes be
connected directly to any drainage system.
(g) Every water supply tank/cistern, shall be provided with a valve
drain line located at its lowest point.
(2) Underground Cisterns
(a) No cistern shall be buried or sunk in the ground unless special measures
are taken to detect leakage and protect the cistern from ingress of
contaminants.
(b) Unless used only for non-potable water, every underground cistern shall be
located so that ingress of surface water or ground water cannot occur, and
such cisterns shall be well ventilated and protected from ingress of animals
and insects and accessible for maintenance.
(c) The outlet of any over flow pipe shall be located at a minimum level of
200.0 mm above finished ground level or at other level satisfactory to the
Authority.
(3) Ground Cisterns
(a) Cisterns resting on ground within the premises of a building should be well
ventilated with screened openings as in (4) below and protected from
ingress of animals.
(4) Elevated Cisterns
(a) Cisterns mounted within the premises of a building should be well

ventilated and protected from ingress of birds, animals and insects and
provided with access to the interior of the cistern for maintenance.
(b) Ventilation openings should be screened by corrosion-resistant mesh.
(5) Pipework
(a) Inlet pipes and float-operated control valves shall confirm to the following:
(i) Except for interconnected cisterns arranged to store water at the

same level, every pipe supplying water to storage cistern shall be
fitted with a float-operated valve or some other equally effective
device to control the inflow of water and maintain it at the required
level.
4.13
(ii) The water level shall be at least 50.0mm below the lowest point of
the lowest overflow pipe connection.
(iii) The inlet control device shall be suitable for the particular application,
bearing in mind the supply pressure and the temperature of the
water in the cistern.
(iv) Every float-operated valve shall be securely fixed to the storage
cistern it supplies and, where necessary, braced to prevent the thrust
of the float causing the valve to move and so affect the water level.
(b) Outlet pipes shall conform to the following:
(i) The heights of connection to outlet pipes (heights up to the invert of

outlet pipes) above the bottom of a gravity cistern of capacity
5000.0L and above shall not be less than 80.0mm.
(ii) Such heights shall not be less than 50.0mm for cisterns of capacity
less than 5000.0L
(iii) Outlets should be provided with suitable strainers of corrosion
resistant material.
(iv) For pump suction cisterns, the height of connection of suction pipes
shall comply with the provisions of (6) below.
(c) Overflow pipes shall be:
(i) made of rigid corrosion resistant material,

(ii) greater in size than the inlet pipe to the cistern,
(iii) capable of discharging the inflow calculated hydraulically taking into
account the maximum head available at the inlet to the cistern, size
of the orifice and the type of overflow outlet,
(iv) capable of discharging where it is readily visible in order not to cause
damage or nuisance.
(d) Cisterns shall be provided with valved drains located at their lowest point
with the floor of the cisterns laid to a slight fall to the drains.
(e) Where a tank is connected to a potable water system, the tank

shall have a valved drain line connected at the lowest point of
the tank.
(f) Where the drain line discharges into a receptacle, the

discharge outlet of the drain line shall be located above the
flood level rim or receptacle, a distance not less than the
specified air gap.
(g) Storage tanks shall conform to the requirements of standards

approved by the Authority.
(h) No water service pipe shall be connected to an underground

storage tank without the written permission of the Authority.
(6) Effective capacity of storage of pump suction cisterns
(a) (i) The effective capacity of storage shall be taken as the measurement
between the normal water level in the cistern or tank and the low
water level X shown in Figure 4.2.
4.14
(ii) Low water level X is taken to be the lowest level before a vortex is
created causing the pump to draw air.
(iii) The effective depth is then multiplied by the average surface area of
the storage to obtain the effective capacity.
(b) Where the suction pipe is taken from the side of the storage, as shown in
Figures 4.2 (b) and (e), the clearance between the base of the storage and
the lowest part of the pump suction pipe shall be not less than the
dimension B as given in the figure.
(c) (i) Where a suction pipe draws from a sump in the base of a storage,
the sump length shall be not less than the dimensions indicated in
figures 4.2(d), (e) and (f).
(ii) In addition, the sump width shall be not less than 3.6D where D is
the nominal diameter of the suction pipe.
(iii) The point of entry shall be located centrally across the width of the
sump.
(d) When an approved vortex inhibitor is installed, the following variations to
the dimensions given in (3) above shall apply:
(i) Dimension A in Figure 4.2 may be disregarded and low water level
X may be taken as the level at which vortexing commences.
(ii) Dimension B in Figure 4.2 may be taken from the base of the tank to
the level at which vortexing commences in Figure 4.2(a).
NOTES:
 Vortex inhibitors are not suitable for use in sumps.

 Figure 4(2) is unlikely to be appropriate to arrangements employing a vortex
inhibitor.
(e) Where arrangements depicted in Figure 4.2 are not applicable, different
intake design may be accepted in agreement with the Authority.
4.15
Figure 4. 2 : Vertical cross-sections showing effective capacity of

storage
4.16
(7) Cistern capacity design
(a) In designing the storage capacity, account shall be taken of the pattern of
water use in the premises concerned and, where possible, to asses the
likely frequency and duration of break down in supply from the water
supplier's mains.
(b) Recommendations for storage capacities related to various types of use

are given in Table 4.3.
Table 4.3 : Recommended minimum storage of water for domestic uses
Consumption per
Type of building occupancy Head per day(l)
(a) Factories with bathroom
(i) with canteen 45
(ii) without canteen 40
(b) Factories without bathroom

(i) with canteen 25
(ii) without canteen 20
(c) Dwellings with house connections 60-100

(d) Dwellings with yard connection 30-35
(e) Public fountains (standard pipes) 15-20
(f) Hospitals (per bed) 150 - 200
(g) Hostels (dormitories) 60
(h) Hotels (per bed) 100 - 150
(i) Offices 25
(j) Restaurants (per seat) 60
(k) Bars (per seat) 50
(l) Cinemas and theatres (per seat) 15
(m) Schools:
(i) Day Schools 15
(ii) Boarding schools 60
NOTES:
(1) For occupancies other than those listed in the table above, water consumption
values may be taken from similar occupancies described in the table.
(2) For occupancies other than in (1) above, water consumption values satisfactory
to the Authority may be taken.
4.6.4 Stopcocks and Valves
(1) Shut-off valves and stopcocks
(a) Where shut-off valves, or stopcocks is used on any section of the water
supply system, the shut-off valve or stopcocks shall be of high quality
brass, bronze, or other approved material, and shall have internal pans
made of the same material, or shall be otherwise suitably protected.
4.17
(b) Where nominal size of 50mm diameter or less is used on a direct, or

street pressure system, the shut-off valves or stopcocks shall be of the
screwed down pattern globe variety, preferably with crutch type handles.
(c) Where nominal size larger than 50mm diameter is used on a direct, or
street pressure system, the shut-off valve or stopcocks shall be of the
bolted down pattern, gate variety, preferably with wheel type handles.
(d) Where the shut-off valves or stopcocks is used on the low pressure
side of an indirect, or gravity fed system, the shut-off valve, or
stopcocks shall :
(i) be of the screwed down pattern, full way gate type;
(ii) be installed in such a manner that they are readily accessible and
facilitate the draining of the system at sections of it and
(iii) be constructed to have an effective opening not less than half the
cross-section area of the pipe to which the shut-off valve or
stopcock is fitted
(e) In all buildings, a shut-off valve shall be installed at the foot of each
riser and stopcock, or valve shall be installed at each sanitary
appliance.
(f) In public building, a stop-cock or valve shall be installed at the foot of
each riser, or where there is no riser, at the place where each
distributing pipe serving more than three fixtures, shall connect to the
service pipe and at each fixture or at each battery of wash basins.
(g) In multiple dwellings, the water supply for each family unit shall be
controlled by an arrangement of shut-off valves which shall Permit each
group of fixtures or individual fixture to be shut off without interference
with the water supply to any other family unit, or portion of the building
(h) In a public building, a shut-off valve shall be installed so that the water
supply to equipment in each separate room may be shut-off without
interference with the water supply to any other room or portion of the
building.
(i) A valve in the water supply distribution system, except a valve
immediately controlling the supply to one fixture, when opened in full,
shall have a cross section area of the smallest orifice, or opening
through which the water shall flow, not less than the cross-section area
of the nominal size of the pipe in which the valve is installed.
(2) Ball Valves
(a) A ball valve used in the water supply system shall be horizontal, or
vertical in design, and the design or type shall conform to the
specifications of standards approved by the Authority.
(b) No ball valve shall have its entire body submerged beneath the
surface of the water in the cistern it serve.
(c) Where a ball valve is provided with piping so arranged as to
discharge water into a cistern below its water level, it shall be
provided with a silencer tube which tube will be provided with an air-
hole, or other means of preventing back siphonage shall be
provided.
4.18
4.6.5 Isolating Valves

(1) The flow from any water main to any water service pipe, and within the water
service pipes, shall be controlled by means of isolating valves (stop valves and
service valves), the locations as specified in Table 4.4.
(2) Isolating valves shall be installed so that they are accessible.
Table 4.4: Isolating valves for water services
Location Type of Valve

(a) General
(i) At the water main tapping stop valve
(ii) At the meter stop valve
(iii) At each flushing cistern service valve
(iv) At each appliance service valve
(v) At each pressure limiting valve stop valve
(vi) At each pumping apparatus stop valve
(vii) At each storage tank(inlet) stop valve
(viii) At each storage tank outlet stop valve
(b) Multiple buildings/multi-storey

(i) At each branch serving individual building stop valve
(ii) At each branch serving each floor in building of 2 or
more storeys stop valve
(iii) At each group of fixtures stop valve
NOTES:
 Stop valve is a valve which can be operated to stop the flow in a pipeline.
 Service valve is a valve which can be operated to stop the flow into an appliance or
fixture.
4.6.6 Pumps and Equipment
(1) General
(a) Electrically driven centrifugal pumping plant is normally used and pumps
should be duplicated and used alternatively.
(b) Where prudent, provision should be made for the pumps to be supplied by
an alternative power supply in the event of mains failure.
(c) Pumps may be of either a horizontal or vertical type, directly coupled to
their electric motors.
(d) Pumps should be sized so that each pump is capable of overcoming the
static lift plus the friction losses in the pipework and valves.
(e) Where pumps are connected directly to the service pipe, full allowance
should be made, when calculating the required pump head for the pressure
already in the service pipe, since the pump head is added to this and does
not cancel out an existing pressure.
(f) The fittings of motors with sleeve-type super-silent bearings should be
considered in order to achieve quiet running.
4.19
(g) (i) Automatic control of pumping plant is essential and pressure

switches, level switches or high-level and low-level electrodes will
give reliable control. Other methods of control, both mechanical and
electrical can be adopted.
(ii) Pumping equipment should be controlled via a pump selector switch
and an ON/OFF/AUTO control.
(iii) Pumps should be capable of being stopped or started manually.
(iv) Pumps should be controlled to limit the number of starts per hour to
within the capacity of the pump.
(h) (i) Most small air compressors used for charging pneumatic pressure
vessels or pressure tanks are of the reciprocating type, either air or
water cooled.
(ii) The air to be compressed should be drawn from a clean cool source
and should be protected from contamination.
(2) Pump room
(a) A pump room should be of adequate size to accommodate all the plant and
also to provide adequate space for maintenance and replacement of parts.
(b) A pump room should be dry, ventilated and protected from flooding.
(c) Entry of birds and small animals should be prevented and access should
be restricted to authorized persons.
(3) Installation of pumps
(a) Pumps shall:
(i) be installed on a base to suit satisfactory operation of the pump;

(ii) have vibration eliminators at the base of the pump, on the suction
side and the delivery side of the pump, so as to minimize the
transmission of noise into the building structure and along the piping
system and to prevent undue stress being placed on the pump;
(iii) have isolation valves on the delivery side and the suction side of the
pump;
(iv) have a non-return valve on the delivery side of the pump before the
isolation valve;
(v) have pressure gauges on the inlet and outlet of the pump; and
(vi) have unions or flanges to enable the pump's removal.
NOTE:
Where a standby pump arrangement is installed, the pumps should be electrically

coupled in such a manner that each pump can operate individually but can be changed
over for standby or alternative duty.
4.20
4.6.7 Water Meters
(1) Location of water meters
(a) Water meters shall be located as follows:
(i) Within the property; in an accessible position.

(ii) Proximity to isolating valve; positioned immediately downstream of
the meter isolating valve.
(iii) Proximity to street-alignment; as near as practicable to the street
alignment.
(iv) In other locations; as required by the relevant regulatory authority.
(2) Installation of water meters
(a) Water meters shall be installed:
(i) so as to be accessible for reading, maintenance or removal; and

(ii) in horizontal position unless designed to operate otherwise
(b) Water meters to be installed inside buildings shall be fixed with the dial not
more than 1.5m above floor level and readily visible for reading.
(c) Water meters to be installed below ground level shall be so located in a

chamber that has a cover which is capable of being removed by one
person and a base that enables drainage. Where liable to vehicular
damage, water meters shall be protected.
(d) Water meters DN50.0mm or larger in size, shall be supported

independently of the pipe work.
4.7 HOT WATER SUPPLY
4.7.1 General
(1) The hot water services shall be designed to provide, so far as is practicable, hot
water at the locations, in the quantities and at the temperatures required by the
user at the least overall cost, taking account of installation, maintenance and
energy costs.
4.7.2 Types of System
(1) General
(a) The choice of the hot water heating system (between instantaneous and
hot water storage system) shall be made bearing in mind the objectives
expressed in 4.7.1 and the characteristics of the different systems. Further
more, the system shall be sized to meet the requirements of the user as
closely as possible.
(2) Instantaneous system

(a) In the instantaneous system, the water is heated as used, there is no
storage, and the capacity of the heater should be equal to the peak
demand.
4.21
(b) Gas-fired instantaneous water heaters installed in bath rooms shall be of

the room-sealed type.
(3) Storage system
(a) In the storage system hot water is heated continuously or intermittently as

desired.
(b) The choice between the vented and the unvented type of installation of the
storage system shall be in accordance with the factors described below:
(i) Vented hot water storage systems are fed with cold water from a
storage cistern which is situated above the highest outlet to provide
the necessary pressure in the system and which accommodates
expansion of the water when it is heated. An open vent pipe shall be
installed from the top of the hot water storage vessel to a point
above the cold water storage cistern, into which it is arranged to
discharge. The main characteristics of vented systems are:
 explosion protection is provided by the open vent pipe and the

cistern, involving no mechanical device;
 the storage provides a constant low pressure and a reserve of
water in case of supply failure, but needs to be protected against
the ingress of contaminants.
(ii) Unvented systems can be fed from a storage cistern, either directly
or through a booster pump, but usually are fed from the supply pipe,
either directly or via a pressure reducing valve. The main
characteristics of unvented systems are as follows:
 Explosion protection is provided by safety devices that need

periodic inspection and maintenance.
 Mains fed systems have no reserve of water but higher
pressures are available if required.
 Allows quicker installation than vented systems but involves
more costly components.
4.7.3 Cold Feed and Hot Water Distribution Pipes
(1) Cold feed pipes
(a) Connection to hot water storage vessels should be arranged so that the
cold water feed pipe is connected near the bottom of the vessel.
(b) The cold feed pipe shall be sized in accordance with Section 4.8.
(2) Hot water distribution pipes
(a) In systems incorporating a hot water storage vessel, the hot water draw-off
shall be arranged to be from the top of the vessel, or as near as there to as
practicable.
(b) The hot water distribution pipes shall be sized in accordance with Section
4.8.
4.22
(c) To promote maximum economy of energy and water, the hot water
distribution system should be designed so that the hot water appears
quickly at draw-off-taps when they are opened.
(d) (i) The length of pipe measured from the tap to the water heater or hot
water storage vessel should be as short as possible and should not
exceed the values given in Table 4.5.
(ii) Where the length shown in Table 4.5 are exceeded, the pipe should be
insulated.
Table 4.5 : Maximum lengths of uninsulated distributing pipes
Outside diameter of Maximum Length

distributing pipe (m)
(mm)
Not exceeding 12 20
Exceeding 12 but not exceeding 22 12
Exceeding 22 but not exceeding 28 8
Over 28 3
4.7.4 Re-circulation System
(1) When draw-off points are situated at a distance from the hot water storage vessel
or water heater, consideration should be given to the use of separate water
heater close to those draw-off points.
(2) When the provision in (1) above is impracticable, re-circulation with flow and
return pipes to the storage vessel should be considered and the circuit should be
well insulated to reduce the heat losses from pipe runs.
(3) In systems where it is not possible to attain gravity circulation, a non-corroding

circulating pump should be installed to ensure that water within the circuit remains
hot.
4.7.5 Hot Water Storage Capacity
(1) The amount of hot water to be stored shall be related to the likely consumption
and recovery rate.
(2) Minimum hot water consumptions for domestic uses are shown in Table 4.6.
4.23
Table 4.6 : Recommended minimum storage of hot water for domestic

uses
Type of Building Occupancy Consumption per head

per day (L)
(a) Factories with bathroom
(i) with canteen 4.5
(ii) without canteen 4.0
(b) Factories without bathroom

(i) with canteen 2.5
(ii) without canteen 2.0
(c) Hospitals (per bed) *

(d) Hostels (dormitories) 20
(e) Hotels (per bed) 35
(f) Restaurants (per seat) 10
(g) Boarding Schools 15
* Hot water consumption values conforming to local conditions may be taken

from good engineering practices in agreement with the Authority.
NOTES:
 For occupancies other than those listed in the table above, hot water consumption
values may be taken from similar occupancies described in the table.
 For occupancies other than in the table above, hot water consumption values
satisfactory to the Authority may be taken.
4.7.6 Water Storage Temperature
(1) In normal circumstances, the temperature of the stored water should never exceed
o
65 C.
o
(2) A stored water temperature of 60 C is considered sufficient to meet all normal
requirements and will minimize deposition of scale in hard water areas.
4.7.7 Energy Conservation
(1) For efficiency of operation and conservation of heat, the hot water storage vessel
and, preferably, all the hot water piping shall be lagged with insulating material.
(2) The hot water storage vessel should be fitted with a thermostat to keep the water at
the required temperature and save energy.
4.7.8 Installation of Hot Water Storage Heaters
(1) Hot water storage vessel should be installed so that the hot water floats on the
relatively cold water, and hot water can be drawn-off even though a substantial
quantity of cold feed water may have recently flowed into the vessel.
4.24
4.7.9 Safety Devices
(1) General
(a) Whenever a water heater, other than a geyser, is supplied from a

header tank/storage cistern, that heater shall be fitted with a
pressure relief expansion pipe connected to the hot water
distribution network and the relief expansion pipe shall rise to and
discharge into the header tank.
(b) The pressure relief expansion pipe shall be protected against

contamination and shall be insulated against extremes of
temperature; and shall have the lowest point of its discharge
positioned so as to provide an air-gap of not less than 100mm
between it and the top surface level of the water in the storage
cistern.
(c) Where the Authority so requires, a check valve shall be installed in

the cold water supply line to each heater.
(d) Where the water supply to the hot water system is not from a
header tank/storage cistern, pressure relief valve shall be installed
in place of the pressure relief expansion pipe on equipment used
for heating or storing hot water and the rate of discharge of the
valve shall limit the pressure rise for any given rate of heat input to
10% of the pressure at which the valve is set to open.
(e) A temperature relief valve shall be installed for all equipment used
for the heating, or storage of hot water; and each valve shall be
rated as of its calorific capacity at 990C and it shall be capable of
discharging sufficient hot water to prevent any further rise in
temperature.
(f) A combination pressure and temperature relief valves shall be

considered acceptable subject to the requirements of subsections
(d) and (e) above.
(g) A temperature relief valve shall he located directly above the

cistern served, and in no case farther than 75mm from such
cistern.
(h) A pressure relief valve may be located adjacent to the equipment

served and there shall be no check valve, or shut-off valve
between a relief valve and the heater or tank for which it is
installed.
(i) Where either or both pressure relief and temperature relief valves
are installed, checking and certification shall be carried out at the
time of installation, and annually thereafter by a qualified inspector
approved by a reputable insurance company and the Authority,
who shall issue a fitness certificate which shall be displayed in a
position adjacent to the equipment.
(j) Any equipment found to have unsatisfactory valves shall be

withdrawn from service immediately and the inspector shall report
the withdrawal and findings to both the reputable insurance
company and the Authority.
(k) The outlet of a pressure, temperature, or other relief valve shall not be
connected to the drainage System directly.
4.25
(l) Any storage tank for domestic hot water shall have clearly and indelibly
stamped in the metal, or marked upon a plate welded thereto, on to it,
or otherwise permanently attached, the maximum allowable working
pressure and the marking shall be placed in an accessible position on
the outside of the tank to make inspection readily possible.
(m) All relief valves shall be approved by the Authority before installation.
(2) Special Devices
(a) Subject to the requirements of subsection (b)below, where a

cooling jacket, or a condenser, industrial or special appliance is
constructed or located so that the prescribed minimum air gap is
not provided, or where a back-flow preventer is not installed, the
jacket, condenser or appliance shall not be connected to or
supplied directly from a potable water system.
(b) Water from a potable water system may be used in a jacket

condenser or appliance where the potable water is first
discharged into a tank conforming to the requirements of section
4.5.3(1) or 4.5.3(2), and is not returned to the potable water system
from the jacket, or condenser or appliance.
(c) A polyethylene service pipe shall not be installed to supply hot
water, unless a check valve is installed on the distributing pipe
supplying the hot water tank.
(d) Where a check valve is installed on the distributing pipe
supplying hot water, the hot water tank shall be equipped with a
pressure relief valve designed to open whenever the water in the
tank reaches a pre-determined pressure and a temperature relief
valve for which the sensing element shall be within top 150mm
of the tank and designed to open whenever the sensing element
reaches a pre-determined temperature.
(3) Energy Control
(a) The energy supply to each heater shall be under effective thermostatic control
to prevent the temperature of the stored water from rising above the normal
expected hot water temperature.
(b) The energy supply to each heater shall be fitted with a temperature operated,
manually reset energy cut-out independent thermostatic control, which shall
operate if the thermostat fails and the storage vessel overheats.
(c) Adequate means of dissipating the heat input shall be made in case both the
temperature thermostat and the energy cut-out fail. This can be accomplished
with either of the following:
(i) A vent pipe capable of carrying away the maximum energy output from the
heater at the normal working pressures of the system.
(ii) A temperature relief valve located within the top 20% of the water in the
vessel and preferably within 150.0mm of the top of the vessel. The
temperature relief valve opens at a preset temperature to permit the over
heated water to escape safely from the hot water storage heater before it
boils. Valves shall not be fitted between the temperature relief valve and
the heater. The water discharged from the temperature relief valve must be
removed from the point of discharge to a safe place.
4.26
(4) Pressure Control
(a) (i) Whether hot or cold water is involved, it shall be ensured that no part
of the system bursts due to the hydraulic pressure to which it is
subjected.
(ii) The pressure in the system shall never exceed the safe working
pressure of the component parts.
(iii) Where necessary, the supply pressure shall be controlled by break
cisterns or by pressure-reducing valves.
(b) (i) Where un-vented storage-type water heaters are used, an
expansion relief valve shall be fitted in the cold feed to the heater
and no valves (other than a draining tap) shall be fitted between the
expansion relief valve and the heater or hot water storage vessel.
The expansion or pressure relief valve setting shall be the maximum
2 2
working pressure plus 0.5kg/cm to 1.5kg/cm .
(ii) Any water discharged from an expansion valve shall be discharged
safely in a similar manner to that of temperature relief valve.
(iii) In addition, provision can also be made to accommodate expansion
water by one of the following alternative methods:
 Allow the expansion water to travel back along the cold feed
pipe, provided that heated water cannot reach any branch cold
feed outlet.
 Where reverse flow along the cold feed is prevented, e.g. by
check valve or pressure reducing valve, an expansion vessel
shall be provided to accommodate expansion water. This vessel
shall be sized in accordance with the volume of water heated
and the water temperature rise so as to limit the pressure to the
maximum working pressure of the system. The expansion
vessel shall accommodate an expansion equal to 4% of the total
volume of water heated.
4.8 PIPE SIZING
4.8.1 General
(1) The sizes of the pipes and fittings used in a water service shall be such as will
provide an adequate rate of delivery of water without recourse to wasteful
oversizing.
(2) The installation shall be sized so that design flow rates given in Table 4.8 will be
available at each outlet when only that outlet is open and at all outlets for most of
the time. The pipes and fittings shall also be sized so that the water velocity in
any pipe does not exceed those given in Table 4.9.
(3) (a) In small, simple installations such as those in small dwellings, it is often
possible to size pipes on the basis of experience and convention.
(b) In all other cases, the pipe sizes shall be calculated in accordance with
good engineering practice.
(4) The amount of either hot or cold water used in any building is variable, depending
on the type of occupancy and time of day. Optimum pipe sizes shall be designed
to meet peak demand.
4.27
4.8.2 Flows of Appliances, Loading Units and Design Flows
A demand rate and corresponding loading unit for various appliances is specified in
Table 4.8 in which the loading values Z are such that:
2
⎛ q ⎞
Z = ⎜ ⎟ (4.1)
⎝ 0.25 ⎠
where q is the flow rate of appliances in l/s
(2) The constant is based upon by granting a flow rate of 0.25 l/s, a unit loading.
(3) (a) Where it is unlikely that all draw-off points will be in simultaneous use
(private dwellings, apartments, hotels, hostels, offices, dormitories, etc), the
probable design flow Q is given by:
Q = 0.25 Z 1 + Z 2 + ..+ Z n (4.2)
(b) Equation (4.2) is valid for situations where an individual draw-off is not
greater than 0.5ls unless it is certain that such flows will be for a short
interval only, e.g. flushing valves.
(4) Where a high proportion of appliances are likely to be in simultaneous use (e.g.
schools, gymnasia, theatre halls, factories, etc...), design flow in accordance with
good engineering practices or approved standards should be used in consultation
with the Authority.
(5) Continuous flow outlets should be taken into account by adding 100% of their
flow rate to the design flow rate for other appliances obtained by using loading
units.
(6) Although there are differences in the rates of flow and pattern of demand
between hot and cold water consumptions, for practical reasons, 75% and 100%
of the total flow rate (See Table 4.8) can be taken for the hot and cold water
demands respectively in pipe sizing.
(7) The design flow rates to storage cisterns shall be determined by dividing the
cistern capacity by filling time. Where individual houses or flats are supplied from
individual minimal-sized storage cisterns, filling time shall be less than 1.0hr. For
larger installations, filling times depend upon usage.
4.8.3 Water Service Pipe
(1) The water service pipe from street main to a building shall be of sufficient size to
furnish an adequate flow of water to meet the requirements of the building and
should preferably be not less than 20.0 mm nominal diameter.
(2) The communication pipe linking the Authority's main to the service supply pipe of
any building shall be of sufficient size to provide adequate supply of water to
meet the requirements of the building at peak demand, and shall not be less than
20 mm nominal diameter.
(3) The communication pipe shall be placed not less than 50 0mm below the crown
of the road nor less than 450 mm beneath the surface of the ground, if it is not in
the road.
(4) The communication pipe shall have a shut-off/stop cock valve within and near to
the boundary of the property and, where necessary, with a meter down-stream of
4.28
the shut-off/stop cock valve, and the shut-off/stop cock valve and meter shall be
adequately protected and be readily accessible;
(5) Where a water supply pipe is attached to the external walls of a building, or
otherwise exposed to the external air, the pipe, where necessary, shall be
insulated against extremes of temperature in approved manner.
(6) Materials for pipes, fittings, and valves used in water service lines shall be of a
quality not less than medium weight, or class, or grade.
4.8.4 Distribution and Branch Supply Pipes

(1) Pipes, fittings and valves used in distribution and branch supply piping
may be of a standard or service weight, but not section of the line shall
be subjected to a working pressure, which at any time is greater than half
the rated pressure of any pipe, fitting or valve of such section of the line.
(2) The minimum size of any piping in the water supply system shall be
12mm nominal diameter.
(3) The supply line taken from pressure, or gravity tanks shall be valved at,
or near the source, and an interior stop-and-waste valve, or cock shall
be provided for each exterior outlet or group of outlet.
(4) Any tank connected to a potable water distribution pipe shall be

equipped with a ball valve in the water-inlet line, and a drain-off valve,
which should be a full way gate valve.
(5) Every pressurised tank connected to a potable water distribution pipe

shall, in addition to the requirements of subsection (4) above, be fitted
with an approved by pass.
(6) Non-pressurised tanks connected to potable distribution pipes shall, in
addition to the requirements of subsection (4)above, be fitted with an
overflow pipe.
4.8.5 Water Supply to Fixtures
(1) The water supply to every fixture shall be such that a sufficient amount
of water is available to flush the fixture to the extent necessary to
maintain sanitary condition.
(2) The water distribution pipe or branch in building shall be of size

adequate to provide positive flow and pressure to each fixture, and in
no case shall the size of water supply pipe to fixture be less than that
prescribed in Table 4.7 of these Regulations.
4.29
Table 4.7: Minimum pipe size of fixtures
Fixture Minimum pipe size: nominal

internal diameter (mm)
Bath tub 12
Bidet 12
Combination sink and tray 12
Drinking fountain 12
Dishwater, domestic 12
Kitchen sink, domestic 12
Kitchen sink, commercial 20
Lavatory 12
Laundry tray 1, 2 or 3 compartments 12
Shower, single head 12
Sink, service, slop 12
Sink, service, slop 12
Sink, flushing, slop 20
Urinal, flush tank 12
Urinal, direct flush valve 20
Water closet, flush valve type 25
Water closet, tank type, hose bib 12
Wall hydrant 12
4.8.6 Minimum Pressure
(1) Minimum, fairly constant residual pressure at the point of outlet discharge shall be
2
not less than 0.20 kg/cm for all appliances except where for flush valves and
special equipment (which may require higher pressures), values in accordance
with manufacturer's requirements can be taken.
4.8.7 Water Hammer
(1) Where water pressures are excessive, air chambers or other approved
mechanical devices shall be provided to reduce water hammer or line noises to
such an extent that no pressure hazard to the piping system will exist.
4.30
4.9 ACCESSIBILITY OF PIPES AND WATER FITTINGS
4.9.1 General
(1) A designer of a water supply system should consider the advantage and
disadvantages of arranging the pipe work so that it is freely accessible for repair
and maintenance.
(2) The main factors that should be considered to decide so as to what degree of
accessibility is to be provided are as follows:
(a) The use to which the building is put, importance of aesthetic

considerations, consequences of leakage from inaccessible parts of the
pipe work; whether or not the system will be subject to routine inspection
and maintenance.
(e) The increase or decrease in capital or maintenance costs arising from the
provision of improved accessibility, ease of forming ducts or chases,
changes of pipe runs, ease of provision of removable access panels or
covers, availability of multi service walkways or crawl ways in which water
pipes may be installed.
(f) The pipework materials and jointing methods, reliability of joints, resistance
to both internal and external corrosion, flexibility of pipe when inserted in
curved ducts or sleeves.
4.9.2 Pipes Passing Through Walls and Floors
(1) Where a pipe passes into a building, it shall be arranged so as to accommodate

differential movement and shall be accessible for withdrawal and replacement.
Table 4.8 : Flow rates and loading units
Flow Rate Loading Units

Appliance l/s Z
(a) WC cistern/bidet/wash basin 0.125 0.25
(b) Flush valve (urinal) 0.125 0.50
(c) Sink 0. 25 1.00
(d) Shower 0. 25 1.00
(e) Bath 0. 35 1.96
(f) Flush valve(WC) 0. 52 4.32
(g) Laundry tub 0. 25 1.00
(h) Washing machines (dish
washer) 0. 25 1.00
(i) Hose tap (20 nom-size) 0. 30 1.44
(j) Hose tap (15 nom-size) 0. 20 0.64
(k) Cistern for urinal 0.004 *
(l) Spray tap(Drinking fountain) 0. 04 *
• Loading unit value can be calculated from Equation (1).
NOTE: Appliances not included in the Table above may be rated by comparing them
with similar appliances listed in the Table .
4.31
Table 4.9: Maximum water velocities in pipe work
Water temperature Maximum water velocity

o
( C) (m/s)
10 3.0
50 3.0
70 2.5
90 2.0
NOTE: These maxima do not apply to small bore connections of limited length
supplied as parts of taps, etc.
(2) Where a sleeve is used for this purpose, it shall be capable of resisting external
loading and shall be sealed at each end with a material of permanently flexible
form to allow movement of the pipe.
(3) The diameter of the sleeve and the radius of any bends therein shall be such as
to permit the ready insertion and withdrawal of the pipe.
(4) No sleeve intended for carrying a water pipe shall contain within it any other pipe
or cable.
4.9.3 Pipe in Walls and Floors
(1) No pipe or pipe joint in or under a building shall be embedded in any wall or solid
floor or in any material below a solid floor at ground level except for the following
(unless equivalent method of installation satisfactory to the building official is
made for the accessibility of pipes during inspection and maintenance):
(a) The embedding of any pipe and associated pipe joints in a properly formed
chases in a wall or solid floor that is subsequently plastered or screeded if
the pipes or pipe joints can be exposed for repair or replacement by cutting
or chipping away the surface layers of the plaster or screed.
(b) The enclosing of any pipe and associated pipe joints in a purpose-made
duct or chase in a solid floor in such away that the pipe and pipe joints can
be exposed for purpose of examination, repair or replacement without
endangering the structural integrity of the building.
(c) The enclosing of any pipe and associated pipe joints in a purpose-made
chase in a solid wall in such away that the pipe and pipe joints can either be
capped off and isolated or be exposed for purposes of examination, repair
or replacement without endangering the structural integrity of the building.
4.9.4 Pipes in Ceilings
(1) Pipes and pipe joints installed in ceilings shall be accessible for purposes of
examination, repair or replacement and supported adequately as specified in
Section 4.10.
4.9.5 Underground Stop Valves
(1) Valve chambers shall be provided to give access for operation and maintenance
of underground valves which may be made of brick or concrete.
4.32
(2) Alternatively, vertical guard pipes or precast concrete encasement can be

provided to enclose valves.
(3) Brick or concrete chambers shall be constructed of sufficient dimensions to

permit repairs to be carried out to the fittings.
4.9.6 Aboveground Valves
(1) Every valve shall be so placed that it is readily accessible for operation and
maintenance.
(2) Any cover shall be fixed by removable fastenings.
4.9.7 Cisterns
(1) Every storage cistern shall be so placed and equipped that the interior thereof
can be inspected and cleaned and the float-operated valve can be maintained.
4.10 INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK
4.10.1 Handling of Materials
(1) Pipes, fittings, and components shall be handled carefully to reduce damage.
(2) Manufacturers' advice should be followed concerning how their products should
be loaded, transported, unloaded and stored.
4.10.2 Pipework in Buildings
(1) Allowance for thermal movement
(a) In installations that do not have limited straight runs and many bends and
offsets, allowance for expansion and contraction of the pipes shall be made
by forming expansion loops, by introducing changes of direction to avoid
long straight runs or by fitting proprietary expansion joints. This is
particularly important where temperature changes are considerable (e.g.
hot water distribution pipework) and where the pipe material has a
relatively large coefficient of thermal expansion (e.g. unplasticized PVC).
(b) In installations with limited straight runs and many bends and offsets,
thermal movement is accommodated automatically.
(2) Support of Pipes
(a) Piping shall be retained in position by brackets, clips or hangers.
(b) Brackets, clips and hangers shall be:
(i) formed of suitable materials,

(ii) securely attached to the building structure, and not to any other
service,
(iii) designed to withstand the applied loads,
(iv) protected against corrosion where exposed to corrosive
environment,
4.33
(v) of like material or lined with a non-abrasive, inert material for that
section where contact with the pipe work may occur, and
(vi) installed so that no movement can occur while a valve is operated.
(c) The method of supporting or spacing of pipes by means of brazing or

welding a short section of any material to the surface of each pipe shall not
be permitted.
(3) Spacings for pipe fixings
(a) The spacings for fixings of internally located piping shall be in accordance
with Table 4.10.
(4) Fixing of iron pipe
(a) Iron pipes shall be secured by heavy weight holder-bats of iron or low
carbon steel either built- in or bolted to the structure.
(5) Fixings for copper and stainless steel pipe
(a) Copper and stainless steel piping shall be secured by copper, copper-alloy,
plastics clips or brackets.
(6) Fixings for steel pipe
(a) Steel piping shall be secured by steel, copper alloy, suitable plastics clips
or brackets. Copper clips or brackets shall not be used for fixing steel
piping.
(7) Fixings for plastic pipes
(a) Plastic piping shall be secured by suitable metal, plastic clips or brackets.
Allowance shall be made for free lateral movement within the clips and
brackets.
(8) Fixing of insulated pipes
(a) Piping that is insulated shall be secured on clips or brackets that allow
sufficient space behind the back of the pipe and the batten or wall to which
the pipe is fixed for the insulation to be properly installed.
(9) Concealed pipes
(a) Piping shall be housed in properly constructed builders work ducts or wall
chases with adequate supports and have access for maintenance and
inspection in accordance with Section 4.9.
4.34
Table 4.10 : Spacing of brackets and clips
Maximum Spacing of Brackets and clips, in Metres
Nominal Pipe Unplasticized PVC,

size Steel pipes Copper Pipes and polyethylene pipes
Horizontal Horizontal Horizontal
or graded Vertical or graded Vertical or graded Vertical
pipes pipes pipes pipes pipes Pipes
DN15 2.0 2.4 1.80 1.50 0.60 1.20
DN20 2.4 3.0 2.40 1.80 0.70 1.40
DN25 2.4 3.0 2.40 2.00 0.75 1.50
DN32 2.7 3.0 3.00 2.50 0.85 1.70
DN40 3.0 3.6 3.00 2.50 0.90 1.80
DN50 3.0 3.6 3.00 3.00 1.05 2.10
DN65 3.0 3.6 3.00 3.00 1.20 2.40
DN80 4.0 4.5 4.00 4.00 1.35 2.70
DN100 4.0 4.5 4.00 4.00 1.50 3.00
DN125 4.5 5.0 4.00 4.00 1.70 3.40
DN150 4.5 5.5 4.00 4.00 2.00 4.00
NOTE: Due to water pressure effects, additional brackets, clips or hangers may be
required to prevent movements.
(10) Clearance of structural members
(a) Piping laid through notches, holes or chases shall not be subjected to
external pressure and shall be free to expand or contract. Piping through
walls and floors shall be sleeved.
(11) Taps
(a) Taps not fixed directly to an appliance shall be screwed into a suitable pipe
fitting and the fitting, or the pipe immediately adjacent to the tap, shall be
firmly secured to a suitable support, so as to prevent strain on the pipe and
its joints when the tap is operated.
(12) Proximity to other services
(a) Electrical cables and gas pipes shall not be installed within 100.0mm of
any water service.
4.35
4.10.3 Underground Pipe Laying
(1) Pipes in trenches
(a) Except where permitted by the Authority, the underground water

service and the building drain or building sewer shall not be less
than 3 metres apart horizontally, and shall be separated by
undisturbed or compacted earth.
(b) Where the Authority permit the water service pipe and the building
drain or building sewer to be placed less than 3 metres apart
horizontally, the following conditions shall apply:
(i) the bottom of the water service pipe, at all points, shall be at
least 300mm above the top of the sewer line at its highest
point;
(ii) the water service pipe shall be placed on solid ground at least
300mm to one side of the sewer pipe; and
(iii) the number of joints in the service pipe shall be kept to a
minimum, and materials and joints of the sewer and water
service pipe shall be installed in such a manner, and shall
possess such strength and durability as to prevent the escape
of solids, liquids, or gasses under all adverse conditions.
(2) Trench excavations
(a) The bottom of trenches shall be carefully prepared to a firm surface so that
the barrels of the pipes when laid are well bedded for their whole length.
(b) Mud, rock projections, boulders, hard spots and local soft spots shall be
removed and replaced with selected material consolidated to the required
level.
(c) Pipes laid in the ground shall be provided with a minimum cover given in
Table 4.11.
(3) Bedding and backfilling
(a) In the refilling of trenches, the pipes shall be surrounded with not less than
75.0mm of compacted sand, or fine grained soil, with no hard-edged object
permitted to come in contact with or rest against any pipe or fitting (see
Figure 4.3).
(b) Any back fill within 300.0mm of the top of the pipe shall be free from
builder's waste bricks, concrete pieces, rocks or similar material which
would be retained on a 75.0mm sieve.
Table 4.11 : Minimum cover for pipes
Minimum cover measured below

Location ground surface level
(mm)
Subject to vehicular traffic 450
All other locations 225
4.36
Note: For pipes to be buried in heavy truck areas special consideration should
be taken to protect them from damage.
(4) Proximity to other services
(a) Electrical cables and gas pipes shall not be installed within 600.0mm of
either side of a below ground water service. Wherever this separation
cannot be achieved, the distance from any electrical cable or gas pipe may
be reduced to 300.0mm provided that, within the exclusion zone, such
electrical cable or gas pipe is suitably marked with bricks, stone masonry
or equivalent durable material painted red.
(b) Any below-ground cross over of water service, within the exclusion zone
shall:
0
(i) cross at angle not less than 45 ,
(ii) have a vertical separation of not less than 100.0mm, and
(iii) be suitably marked with bricks, stone masonry or equivalent durable
material, painted red.
(c) Water service pipes shall not be laid in a trench excavated for a foul drain.
Wherever it is not practical to do otherwise, water pipes may be laid in the
same trench as a sanitary drain
(see Figure 4.4) provided the following conditions are observed:
(i) The water service shall be located on a shelf or ledge, excavated at

one side of the trench not less than 50.0mm from the continuation of
the trench, or on compacted bedding.
(ii) The underside of the water pipe is at least 100.0mm above the top of
the foul drain.
(iii) The number of joints in the water service pipe shall be kept at a
minimum.
4.37
Figure 4.3: Typical installation in a trench
4.38
Figure 4.4: Laying of water supply pipe work in same trench as foul
drains.
(5) Ingress of dirt
(a) Pipes shall be kept clean and, immediately before laying each pipe and
fitting, shall be thoroughly cleaned internally and the open end temporarily
capped until jointing takes place. Particular care shall be taken to keep the
joints clean. After laying and jointing, the leading end shall remain capped.
(6) Corrosion
(a) Pipes passing through corrosive materials shall be provided with approved
coatings, sheathings or wrappings or other means of protection against
damage from external corrosion.
(b) Where ferrous and non-ferrous pipes or fittings are joined together,
protection against galvanic corrosion shall be provided by:
(i) fitting a plastic connector or a short length of plastic pipe between

the dissimilar metals, for threaded type joints, or
(ii) fitting an insulated gasket between flanges, insulating sleeves along
the bolts, and insulating washers under the bolt head and nut, for
flanged type joints.
4.39
(7) Thrust blocks
(a) Thrust blocks (see Figure 4.5) shall be installed:

(i) at all bends or junctions,
(ii) at the termination of pipe work,
(iii) at valves installed in the pipe work,
(iv) at the reducing fitting in the direction of smaller pipe,
o
(v) at changes of direction in excess of 5 , and
(vi) at grades in excess of 1:5.
(b) Thrust blocks shall be constructed of concrete with one side bearing
against a firm vertical face of the excavation and designed to resist the
thrust produced by the test pressure to be transmitted to the surrounding
soil without the maximum bearing pressures of the soil and the pipework
material being exceeded.
4.10.4 Cleaning and Disinfection of the Supply System
(1) Storage tanks
(a) All water storage tanks for potable water shall be cleaned and disinfected:
(i) prior to initial use; and

(ii) whenever the storage tank is taken out for inspection, repairs,
painting or other activity that might lead to contamination of water.
(b) (i) The tank shall be drained and all debris and sludge removed.
(ii) The surfaces of walls, floor and operating facilities shall be
thoroughly cleaned using a high pressure water jet, sweeping,
scrubbing or other similar effective means.
(iii) All water, dirt, and other material accumulated in this cleaning
process shall be flushed or otherwise removed from the tank.
(c) (i) After cleaning, the tank shall be disinfected by filling it to overflow
level with potable water to which enough chlorine is added to provide
a free chlorine residual, in the tank of not less than 10.0mg/l, at the
end of retention time.
(ii) The retention time shall not be less than 6.0hrs. The tank shall be
drained after disinfection and flushed out with potable water prior to
being put back into service.
(2) Water services
(a) Water services used to supply potable water shall be protected against
contamination during storage, construction and repairs that might lead to
contamination of water.
(b) On completion of the installation or repairs, water services shall be flushed
at each discharge point to remove any dirty water or debris from the
service.
(c) After flushing, water services shall be chlorinated before being placed in
service. Water services shall be disinfected, so that, after retention period
of 6.0hrs, a free chlorine residual of not less than 10.0mg/l is obtained
throughout the service. After the applicable retention period, the service
shall be flushed until chlorine measurements show that the concentration in
the water leaving the service is not higher than that generally prevailing in
the suppliers distribution system or is acceptable for domestic use.
4.40
Figure 4.5 : Typical location of thrust blocks.
4.41
4.10.5 Identifying and Recording Piping Locations
(1) Location of pipes and valves
(a) Consideration shall be given to the need to locate the position of pipes and
valves.
(b) Valve chambers shall be lettered to indicate what service is below them.
Where possible, durable marks should be set up to indicate the pipe
service, the size, the position and depth below the surface.
(c) In any building other than a single dwelling, every supply pipe and every
pipe for supplying water solely for fire fighting purposes shall be clearly and
indelibly marked to distinguish them from each other and from every other
pipe in the building.
(d) All piping conveying non-potable water shall be adequately and durably
identified by a distinctive colouring paint so that it will be readily
distinguished from piping carrying potable water.
(2) Recording drawings
(a) During the installation of a water supply system, records of all pipe runs,
cisterns, valves, outlets, etc. shall be kept.
(b) On completion of the work, drawings shall be prepared on durable material
of the `as fixed' installation. These record drawings shall be handed to the
"building owner".
4.11 INSPECTION, TESTING AND COMMISSIONING
4.11.1 General
(1) The procedures detailed in this section shall be used to ensure that:
(a) materials and equipment installed comply with approved standards (see
Section 4.2).
(b) the work is done entirely within the specification for the job.
4.11.2 Procedure
(1) General
(a) Inspections and tests shall be undertaken as the work proceeds. Records
of all tests required by the specification shall be kept by the installer.
(2) Timing
(a) The timing of tests shall be arranged as follows:
(i) Interim tests - as soon as practicable after completion of the

particular section, with particular attention to all work which will be
concealed.
(ii) Final tests - to be carried out on completion of the work on the water
services and prior to handing over.
(b) Satisfactory completion of an interim test does not constitute a final test.
4.42
(3) Re-tests
(a) Items failing any tests shall be corrected immediately and re-tested before
further work proceeds.
4.11.3 Inspection
(1) Visual inspections shall be carried out at both interim and final testing in order to
detect faults in construction or material not shown up under test but which could
lead to failure at a later date, possibly after expiry of the contractual maintenance
period.
(2) (a) All internal pipe work shall be inspected to ensure that it has been securely
fixed.
(b) All cisterns, water heaters, etc.. shall be inspected to ensure that they are
properly supported and secured, that they are clean and free from swarf
and that cisterns are provided with correctly fitting covers before testing
takes place.
(3) (a) Trenches shall be inspected to ensure that excavation is to the correct
depth to guard mechanical damage due to traffic or other activities.
(b) In visual inspection of pipe lines laid in open trenches, particular attention
shall be paid to the pipe bed, the line and the level of the pipe, irregularities
at joints, the correct fitting of valves, the correct installation of thrust blocks
where required, and ensure that protective coatings are undamaged.
4.11.4 Leakage Testing
(1) After satisfactory visual inspections have been completed, hydraulic pressure
testing shall be carried out on the installation. Compressed air may be used as
well for the pressure test.
4.11.5 Testing of Installations within Buildings
(1) When the installation is complete, it shall be slowly filled with water, with the
highest draw-off point open to allow air to be expelled from the system.
(2) It is desirable that the installation then be tested hydraulically in the following way:
Subject the pipes, pipe fittings and connected appliances to a test pressure of
2
10.0kg/cm or at least two times the maximum working pressure, which ever is
greater, with the pressure applied and maintained for at least one hour. The
installation, including all cisterns, water heaters, etc. shall then be inspected for
leaks.
(3) Each draw-off tap, shower fitting and float-operated valve shall be checked for
rate of flow against the specified requirements. Defects revealed by any of the
foregoing tests shall be remedied and the tests repeated until a satisfactory result
is obtained.
4.11.6 Testing of Underground Pipelines
(1) After laying, jointing and anchoring, the pipeline shall be slowly and carefully filled
with water so that all air is expelled and then tested under pressure.
4.43
(2) Interim tests shall be applied to every pipeline. For buried pipelines, these shall
be carried out before backfilling is placed over the joints. Long pipelines should
be tested as the work proceeds.
(3) Final tests shall be carried out only when all relevant work is complete.
Completion for buried pipelines includes backfilling, compaction and surface
finish.
(4) Generally, the tests should be conducted immediately prior to the hand-over.
Where long lengths of buried pipelines are laid clear of the general construction
area, it may be practicable to carry out final tests for completed sections as work
proceeds.
(5) (a) The test pressure shall be at least twice the maximum working pressure or
2
10.0kg/cm which ever is greater.
(b) Pressure gauges shall be checked and re-calibrated, where necessary,

before the test.
(c) To avoid the risk of contamination, water used for testing shall be obtained
from potable supply.
4.12 MAINTENANCE
4.12.1 General
(1) Appropriate maintenance procedures shall be adopted to maintain the

performance of the installation taking into account the requirements and
recommendations given in Clauses 4.12.2 to 4.12.8.
(2) The installation shall be inspected at periods by the person responsible for
maintenance. Faults noticed on inspection shall be attended to without delay.
4.12.2 Pipework
(1) Fixings and supports
(a) Any loose or missing fixings or supports shall be made good. Provision for
expansion and contraction shall be checked, particularly in the case of
plastics pipe work.
(2) Joints
(a) Leaking joints shall be tightened or remade, or where necessary the pipe
work shall be renewed, to stop all leakage.
(3) Compatibility
(a) When carrying out renewals, the existing pipework shall be identified and
appropriate adaptor used as necessary.
4.12.3 Terminal Fittings and Valves
(1) Terminal fittings
(a) When any sign of leakage from a float-operated valve (eg. dripping from
any overflow pipe) or tap is noticed, the fitting shall be re-washered, re-
seated or replaced as necessary to stop leakage.
4.44
(b) The action of self-closing taps shall be checked at regular intervals and any
necessary repairs or adjustments carried out.
(2) Isolating valves
(a) Isolating valves (stop valves and service valves) shall be operated at least
once per year to ensure free movement of working parts.
(3) Relief valves
(a) Relief valves shall be operated at least once per year to check that the
valve has not stuck or become blocked.
(b) Any fault revealed shall be corrected immediately.
(4) Pressure control valves
(a) An indication of malfunction of a pressure control valve shall be attended

without delay.
(b) When a pressure gauge is fitted down stream of a pressure control valve,
its reading should be checked from time to time and any changes
investigated.
4.12.4 Cisterns
(1) (a) Cisterns shall be inspected from time to time to ensure that overflow pipes
are clean, that covers are adequate and securely fixed, and that there are
no signs of leakage or deterioration likely to result in leakage.
(b) Cisterns storing more than 1000.0l drinking water shall be inspected at
least once every 6 months.
(c) Cisterns storing less than 1000.0l drinking water shall be inspected at least
once per year.
(2) (a) Overflow pipes shall be examined and kept free from obstructions.
(b) Ends of overflow pipes shall be protected from entry of insects and
vermins.
4.12.5 Ducts
(1) Ducts shall be kept accessible, clear of extraneous material and free from vermin.
(2) All access points should be checked to ensure that they have not been
obstructed.
4.12.6 Vessels Under Pressure
(1) Any vessel storing water under pressure, for example unvented storage water
heaters, shall be inspected for indications of deterioration no less frequently than
at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer.
4.45
4.12.7 Disconnection of Unused Pipes and Fittings
(1) If any part of an installation becomes redundant and, in particular, if any

appliance or fitting is disconnected, other than for the purpose of repair,
maintenance or renewal, then the whole of the pipework supplying water to the
disconnected or unused appliance or fitting shall also be disconnected.
4.12.8 Pumps
(1) A responsible person should be appointed to oversee the proper execution of the
scheme and the user should arrange for regular inspection and maintenance of
the pumps and equipment.
4.46
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 5: FIRE FIGHTING WATER SUPPLY ................................................. 5.1

5.1 SCOPE ............................................................................................................ 5.1
5.2 MATERIALS .................................................................................................... 5.1
5.2.1 Selection and Use ................................................................................ 5.1
5.2.2 Standards to be Complied .................................................................... 5.1
5.3 JOINTS ............................................................................................................ 5.1
5.4 FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEMS ............................................................................ 5.1
5.4.1 General ................................................................................................. 5.1
5.4.2 Sprinkler Systems ................................................................................ 5.1
5.4.3 Hose Reel Systems ............................................................................... 5.2
5.4.4 Fire Hydrant Systems ............................................................................ 5.4
LIST OF TABLES
Table 5.1: Required number of internal hydrants according to floor area ................ 5.5
i
SECTION 5
FIRE FIGHTING WATER SUPPLY
5.1 SCOPE
(1) This section of the Regulations sets out requirements for and gives
recommendations on the design, installation, testing and up-keeping of hose reel
and fire hydrant systems within premises.
(2) Good Engineering practices in the design and installation of sprinkler system
should be used, as it is not dealt in detail in these Regulations.
5.2 MATERIALS
5.2.1 Selection and Use
(1) The materials to be used shall be selected to ensure satisfactory service for the
life of installation. Factors to be taken include:
(a) the nature of the ground and the possibility of chemical attack there from;
(b) the physical and chemical characteristics of the materials; and

(c) the possibility of abrasion by solids in the flow, or of chemical attack of the
materials.
5.2.2 Standards to be Complied
(1) Materials and components for fire fighting shall comply with the relevant
standards approved by the Authority.
5.3 JOINTS
(1) All joints shall be made in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.
5.4 FIRE FIGHTING SYSTEMS
5.4.1 General
(1) Sprinkler systems, hydrant systems, and hose reels systems form an important
part of fire protection of a building, but it should not be assumed that their
provision entirely obviate the need for portable fire extinguishers or other fixed
fire suppression systems which are not dealt within these Regulations.
5.4.2 Sprinkler Systems
(1) Sprinkler systems should be provided in buildings where there is a need for extra
precaution against fire hazards.
(2) Buildings in (1) above include chemical factories, industries and laboratories
employing chemical factories and chemical-oriented products; buildings where
easily combustible products are processed or stored. The design of such
systems should be made in accordance with good Engineering practices.
5.1
5.4.3 Hose Reel Systems
(1) General
(a) Hose reels, although delivering smaller quantities of water, are first-aid fire
fighting equipment, capable of operation by untrained person who may be
in the vicinity when the fire is discovered, and thus can be more rapidly
brought into action to tackle a fire in its early stage of development.
(b) Hose reels provide a continuous and easily controlled water jet and thus,
are generally more effective than portable fire extinguishers and less
damaging than larger jets (for example, fire hydrants).
(2) Provision and siting
2
(a) One hose reel should be provided to cover 800.0m of floor space or part
thereof.
(b) Hose reels should be sited in prominent and accessible positions at each
floor level adjacent to exits in corridors on exit routes, in such a way that
the nozzle of the hose can be taken into every room and within 6.0m of
each part of a room, having regard to any obstruction.
(c) In exceptional circumstances, consideration may also be needed as to the

desirability of siting hose reels in such a way that if a fire prevents access
to one hose reel site, the fire can be attacked from another hose reel in the
vicinity.
(3) Water supply
(a) (i) The water supply to hose reels should be such that when the two top
most reels in a building are in use simultaneously, each will provide a
jet of approximately 6.0m in length and will deliver not less than
0.5l/s (30l/m).
(ii) To meet the requirements in (i) above, the length of the hose
(normally 18.0m to 35.0m) and the size of the nozzle to be used
should be determined with respect to the manufacturer's
specification to set the required input pressure at the entry of reels.
(b) (i) Where the water pressure in hose reel mains needs to be boosted,
the provision of an electrically driven pump is usually a convenient
method.
(ii) A duplicate standby pump should also be provided. Both motors and
pumps should be sited in fire protected positions and the electrical
supply to them should be adequately protected.
(iii) The booster pumps system should come into operation automatically
when there is a drop in pressure or a flow of water.
(iv) Both pumps should be capable of being started or stopped
manually.
(v) The standby pump should be so arranged that it will operate
automatically on a failure for any reason of the duty pump.
(c) In cases where it is not permitted to connect a booster pump directly to a

supply main, the installation should be fed from a tank or interconnected
tanks having a minimum capacity of 3000 litres.
5.2
(d) Tanks supplying water for domestic purposes should not be used as tanks
for hose reel installations unless arrangements for these domestic supplies
to be drawn off is considered in such a manner that the requisite reserve of
water for the hose reel installation is always preserved.
(e) The size of supply main for two hose reels working simultaneously as
described in (a) above shall be of 25.0mm nominal diameter.
(4) Installation of hose reel systems
(a) (i) Hose reels should preferably be installed in recesses so that they do
not form obstructions. The details of installation will vary owing
considerably to the wide variation of types of hose reel and their size.
(ii) Any doors provided for hose reel recesses should be so hinged that
o
they open approximately 180 so as not to offer any obstruction to
the hose being run out in either direction. The doors should not
normally be fitted with locks.
(b) When installed on open floor areas, it may be necessary to position hose
reels above head height, but in these cases, the nozzle retainer, the hose
guide and the inlet valve should be fitted at about 900.0mm above floor
level.
(c) Hose reel brackets should be firmly fixed to the wall so that casual knocks
received during normal use of the building and the stresses incurred during
use for fire fighting will not prevent the unimpeded use of the hose reel.
(d) The supply pipework for hose reels should be installed in accordance with
the relevant recommendations given in section 4.10.
(5) Hose reel notices
(a) For hose reels which do not have automatic action, a notice should be
provided indicating the need to turn on the inlet valve before running out
the hose. This notice should be fixed to the wall in a prominent position
adjacent to the reel.
(b) All notices should be set out in letters easily readable in adverse
conditions.
(c) If hose reels are installed in recesses to which doors are fitted, the doors
(whether glazed or other wise) should bear the word "FIRE HOSE- REEL"
in red letters at least 50.0mm high on a white background.
(6) Hose reel system tests
(a) (i) The pipework should be thoroughly flushed out to remove any debris
which may have accumulated within the system during the
installation and ensure that no harmful matter is passed into the reel.
(ii) After flushing out the supply main, the hose tubing should be run out
and the water turned on to establish that the assembly is fully
operational.
(b) (i) The pipework installation should be tested at a pressure not less
2
than 10.0kg/cm or two times the maximum working pressure,
whichever is greater for a period of at least 1.0hr.
(ii) During the testing period, inspection should be made to check that
no leakage of water is taking place in the pipework.
5.3
(c) The two most highly situated and remote reels should be discharged
simultaneously, one being led to waste and the other directed into a
suitable receptacle to ascertain that the flow rate specified in 3(a) above is
achieved.
(d) (i) After the test described in (b) and (c) above have been satisfactorily
completed, the system should be restored to its normal operating
state.
(ii) Reels should never be left under pressure and, where practicable,
hose should be drained prior to being returned to the drum.
(e) The effective performance of booster pumps should be tested. Particularly,

a test of the standby pump should be done with a simulated mechanical or
electrical failure of the duty pump arranged, and the ability of the standby
pump to come into service automatically and to maintain the required
outputs should be checked.
(7) Inspection and maintenance of hose reels
(a) Hose reels should be subjected to regular inspection to ensure that the
inlet valve, the automatic on/off valve (if any), tubing and nozzle are sound
and free from leaks and also to ensure that the outlet of the nozzle is not
obstructed.
(b) If booster pumps have been installed, their associated mechanical and
electrical equipment should also be checked.
(c) (i) Once a year, the hose should be completely run out and subjected to
operational water pressure to ensure that the hose is in good
condition and that all couplings are watertight.
(ii) A flow test should be carried out to ensure that the flow rate
described in 3(a) above is achieved.
(iii) If it is not possible to test every hose reel, at least the top-most reel
on a rising main should be tested.
5.4.4 Fire Hydrant Systems
(1) General
(a) The availability of fire hydrants is essential to fire protection. Hydrants may
be used to quell an initial outbreak of fire, quench a dying fire controlled by
an automatic protection system (e.g. sprinkler system), or provide the sole
fire fighting facility, e.g, after other means (hose reels, portable fire
extinguishers, etc.) have been unsuccessful.
(2) Provision of fire hydrants
(a) Internal fire hydrants shall be installed in all occupancy buildings with four
or more floors.
(b) Internal fire hydrants may also be installed in consultation with the
Authority in:
(i) all residential occupancies (apartments, motels, hotels, hostels,

dormitories, etc. ) except in dwellings;
(ii) all assembly occupancies (auditoriums, theatre halls, night-clubs,
museums, etc),
5.4
(iii) business occupancies (banks, city halls, etc);

(iv) industrial occupancies (processing and assembling plants, mills,
garages, workshops, laboratories, factories, etc);
(v) institutional occupancies (hospitals, prisons, etc);
(vi) mercantile occupancies (department stores, shopping centres, etc);
(vii) storage occupancies (raw material, agricultural or manufacturing
products, etc);
(viii) buildings where fire hazard is expected.
(c) External hydrants shall be installed in consultation with the Authority for:
(i) industrial occupancies, storage occupancies, etc;

(ii) buildings where fire hazard is expected.
(3) Location of hydrants
(a) (i) Internal hydrants shall be installed in accessible positions as in the

following:
 Within a lobby approach stairway, where this is provided;

 In a stairway enclosure; or
 In such other accessible positions as may be agreed with the
Authority.
(ii) Internal hydrants should be installed for floor areas specified in Table
5.1. Any point on a floor of a building should be within the reach of a
6.0m hose stream issuing from a nozzle at the end of a hose
connected to the hydrant outlet.
Table 5.1: Required number of internal hydrants according to floor area
2
Building floor area (m ) Minimum number of hydrants
< 10000 1
>1000 2
< 5000
>5000 2
<10,000
>10,000 one additional hydrant for each
2
additional 5000.0m or part thereof.
(b) External fire hydrants (underground and pillar-type hydrants ) shall be

located so that:
(i) they are accessible,

(ii) they are not less than 6.0m from a wall of a building, except that
the Building Official may permit the hydrants to be installed closer
to the wall where site conditions so dictate,
(iii) they are not more than 150.0m apart,
(iv) they are not damaged by parking, or loading and unloading of
vehicles, or protected from any mechanical damage.
5.5
(4) Water supplies and pumping arrangements
(a) (i) Fire hydrant systems shall be designed for the simultaneous oper-
ation of two most hydraulically disadvantaged.
(ii) The outlet of each hydrant must be capable of discharging not less
than 4.0l/s while maintaining a minimum residual pressure of
2
2.0kg/cm measured at the outlet of the nozzle. This may produce
undesirably high pressure in some of the hydrants and hoses, to
avoid which, pressure reducing arrangements at those hydrant
valves may be required.
(iii) For high hazard and easily combustible occupancies, flow rate and
residual pressure values may be taken from approved standards in
consultation with the Authority.
(b) (i) In cases where the town's main supply may not provide sufficient
pressure and flow at all times, storage tanks or interconnected
tanks should be provided.
(ii) The contents of the tank(s) and the inflow from town's main
controlled by ball valve should be such as to maintain a flow of
water specified in (a) above for 2.0hrs.
(iii) Where fire hose reels form part of a fire hydrant system, additional
fire hose reel water flow rates and storage need not be provided for
their operation.
(iv) Tanks supplying water for domestic purposes should not be used
as tanks for fire hydrants unless arrangements have been made for
these domestic supplies to be drawn off in such a manner that the
requisite reserve of water for fire fighting is always preserved. The
deterioration in the quality of water for domestic supplies, which
may arise due to the stagnation of water from having a storage
tank for both (domestic and fire) needs, should be considered.
(c) (i) Two automatic pumps should be installed to feed the fire hydrants
one of which should act as standby, each pump recommended to
be supplied by a different source of power, e.g. electricity or diesel
engine, arranged so that when acting as duty pump, it will operate
automatically, i.e. on a flow of water or fall in pressure on the
installation.
(ii) The secondary pump should be so arranged that it will operate
automatically on a failure for any reason of the duty pump.
(iii) Both pumps should be with features for manual starting and
stopping.
(5) Internal pipework installation
(a) (i) Internal above-ground pipework shall be supported from masonry,

concrete, or load bearing walls and installed:
 in a stairway enclosure; or
 in such other position that does not impair the overall fire
fighting efficiency of the system and as may be approved by
the Authority.
(ii) Arrangements for draining rising mains should be incorporated to
enable any necessary repairs to be carried out.
5.6
(b) When a pipe support system is being designed for a hydrant system,
consideration shall be given to the correct location of the pipe supports
and to:
(i) stresses and loads which may be imposed on the support system
from external causes;
(ii) transmission of vibration from the building to the pipework and from
the pipework to the building;
(iii) the effect of a corrosive environment which may have on the
materials used; and
(iv) the materials resistance to fire.
(6) External pipework installation
(a) (i) External pipework shall be located underground as far as is

practicable.
(ii) Where it is not possible to install pipework underground, provision
shall be made to protect pipework from mechanical damage.
(iii) Provision shall also be made to protect the pipework and any
supporting structure from damage by fire.
(b) (i) Where a number of fire hydrants are required, the pipework
installation should be made in the form of ring to form a complete
circuit of the site.
(ii) Isolating valves should be incorporated in the system so that
sections of the pipework can be isolated to enable repairs to be
carried out.
(iii) Thrust blocks shall be designed and installed to provide adequate
reaction to the forces imposed by the maximum pressures
generated, including system water pressures, water hammer and
soil conditions (see clause 4.10).
(7) Ancillary equipment installation
(a) When a fire hose is installed, provision shall be made for it to be stored
adjacent to the fire hydrant in an approved manner and in a suitable
cabinet depending on location; e.g., in a weather proof enclosure for
external location.
(b) (i) Where cabinets are supplied, they should be of sufficient size to
house all equipment and of a design that facilitates access to, and
handling of the equipment.
(ii) Cabinets shall be used to contain fire fighting equipment only.
(iii) Cabinets for internal and external fire hydrants shall have the
words "FIRE HYDRANT" in letters of contrasting colour to that of
the background and not less than 50.0mm and 75.0mm
respectively.
(c) Hydrants shall be installed so that, when the hydrant valve is fully open:
(i) the top of the hydrant valve shall not be more than 1200.0mm from
the ground, floor or platform;
(ii) they are in a position where they have sufficient clearance to be
easily accessible for operation of the valve and the hose.
5.7
(8) Hydrant system tests

(a) Upon completion of the fire main and hydrant installations, all trapped air
within the system shall be expelled and the system fully flushed as in
5.4.3(6)(a).
2
(b) (i) all pipework shall be tested to not less than 10.0kg/cm , or two
times the highest working pressure, whichever is greater, for a
period of at least one hour as in 5.4.3(6)(b).
(ii) where hydrant pipework is underground, or may be otherwise
rendered inaccessible, the hydrostatic test shall be made before
covering or concealment takes place.
(c) (i) after the static pressure test is completed, a flow test should be
carried out. For this test, water should be passed through the
system under pressure and the flow gauge readings recorded.
(ii) inability to sustain an effective fire fighting jet from the top most
outlet, or any undue pressure loss in the fire main (after allowing for
the height involved) should be investigated.
(d) (i) the effective performance of fire pumps should be investigated.

(ii) particular attention should be paid to the ability of any pump which
may be required for standby to operate satisfactorily on a failure of
the duty pump, and this should be tested.
(e) If as a result of the tests in (b),(c), and (d) above, any defects are found,
they should be remedied as necessary and a re-test of the system should
be carried out.
(9) Inspection and maintenance of hydrants
(a) For internal hydrants:
(i) hydrant valves and their cabinets should be inspected every six
months;
(ii) special attention should be given to all valves and accessories to
ensure that they are in satisfactory condition, so that all equipment
is ready for immediate use;
(iii) additional checks are required in the cleanliness of storage tanks
and booster pumps and their associated mechanical and electrical
equipment.
(b) For external hydrants:
(i) arrangements should be made to ensure that at least once a year

maintenance is carried out on all hydrants by a competent person;
(ii) periodical inspection of the vicinity of all hydrants should also be
made to ensure that there are no obstructions impeding
accessibility;
(iii) periodic inspection should be made to ensure that all isolation
valves for systems are kept in an "open" position;
(iv) flow and pressure should be checked to ensure that supplies have
not deteriorated;
(v) additional checks are required in the cleanliness of storage tanks
and booster pumps and their associated mechanical and electrical
equipment.
5.8
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 6: INTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM OF BUILDINGS .......................... 6.1

6.1 SCOPE ............................................................................................................. 6.1
6.2 PERFORMANCE ............................................................................................... 6.1
6.3 MATERIALS ...................................................................................................... 6.1
6.3.1 Quality of Materials ................................................................................ 6.1
6.3.2 Floor flanges .......................................................................................... 6.1
6.3.3 Galvanizing ............................................................................................ 6.2
6.3.4 Identification of Materials ....................................................................... 6.2
6.3.5 Used Materials ...................................................................................... 6.2
6.4 DESIGN ............................................................................................................. 6.2
6.4.1 General .................................................................................................. 6.2
6.4.2 Traps ..................................................................................................... 6.2
6.4.3 Discharge Pipes and Stacks ............................................................... 6.11
6.4.4 Drains .................................................................................................. 6.25
6.4.5 Floor Waste Gullies ............................................................................. 6.37
6.5 GENERAL INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK ................................................. 6.40
6.5.1 Support and Fixing of Pipework .......................................................... 6.40
6.5.2 Location ............................................................................................... 6.42
6.5.3 Concealment of Pipes and Fittings ...................................................... 6.43
6.5.4 Inspection and Testing of Installations ................................................ 6.43
6.5.5 Maintenance ........................................................................................ 6.43
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 6.1: Trapping of sinks .................................................................................. 6.4

Figure 6.2: Single traps for fixture groups .............................................................. 6.5
Figure 6.3: Interceptor as a trap ............................................................................. 6.5
Figure 6.4: Types of Traps ....................................................................................... 6.7
Figure 6.5: Typical connection of fixture discharge pipe to a common discharge
pipe. ...................................................................................................... 6.18
Figure 6.6: Branch discharge pipe connections to discharge stacks ................... 6.20
Figure 6.7: Opposed branch connections to stack ............................................... 6.21
Figure 6.8: Prohibited connections at or near base of stack ................................ 6.23
Figure 6.9: Bend and branch connections at base of discharge stack ................. 6.24
Figure 6.10: Connection of fixture traps (DN40) on grade to branch drains ........... 6.26
i
Figure 6.11: Typical connections of ground-floor fixtures to unvented

branch-drains ..................................................................................... 6.37
Figure 6.12: Typical connection of wastes to a floor waste gully ........................... 6.38
Figure 6.13: Steep offsets below lowest connection .............................................. 6.41
Figure 6.14: Graded offset ..................................................................................... 6.42
LIST OF TABLES
Table 6.1: Minimum sizes of traps and outlets - connections for fixtures............. 6.5
Table 6.2: Size and spacing of cleanouts ............................................................. 6.9
Table 6.3: Equivalent fixture units ...................................................................... 6.12
Table 6.3: Continue ............................................................................................. 6.13
Table 6.4: Maximum allowable number of fixture units for horizontal fixture
branches and stack ............................................................................ 6.13
Table 6.5: Maximum allowable number of fixture units for building drains
and sewers ......................................................................................... 6.14
Table 6.6 : Minimum gradients of discharge pipes............................................... 6.17
Table 6.7 : Minimum gradients of drains .............................................................. 6.26
Table 6.8 : Minimum fixture unit loadings for reduced grade drains .................... 6.26
Table 6.9: Maximum fixture unit loading for vented drains.................................. 6.28
Table 6.10: Size and rating of vents ..................................................................... 6.29
Table 6.11: Size and length of vent pipes ............................................................. 6.34
Table 6.12: Maximum distance of fixture traps from vents ............................ 6.35
Table 6.13: Size of unvented branch drains .................................................... 6.36
Table 6.14: Discharge to floor waste gullies ........................................................ 6.38
Table 6.15: Size of vent pipes for traps ............................................................... 6.39
Table 6.16: Minimum height of floor waste gully risers ........................................ 6.40
Table 6.17: Minimum size of floor waste gully traps ............................................ 6.40
Table 6.18: Maximum spacing of brackets, clips & hangers ................................ 6.41
Table 6.19: The chemical cleaning of discharge stacks & branches ................... 6.44
ii
SECTION 6
INTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM OF BUILDINGS
6.1 SCOPE
(1) This section sets out requirements and recommendations for the design,
installation, testing and maintenance of internal non-pressure foul drainage works
for domestic and non-domestic buildings.
(2) The term "internal" in (1) above includes all foul drainage pipework within or on the
building including any basement(s).
(3) This section also sets out requirements regarding pipe materials and their jointing.
6.2 PERFORMANCE
(1) Discharge pipe systems should comprise the minimum of pipework necessary to
carry away the discharges from sanitary fixtures in the building quickly, quietly and
with freedom from nuisance or risk of injury to health.
(2) In the design of any drainage system, the performance criteria which shall be
followed are:
(a) requirements for discharge rates from fixtures,

(b) exclusion of foul air,
(c) limitation of noise,
(d) containment of leakage of discharge,
(e) prevention of risk of blockage,
(f) durability of material,
(g) ease of replacement of materials, and
(h) access for testing and maintenance.
(3) Where it is necessary to pump effluent from below the building drain level, the
method of discharge to the building drainage system should be such that the rate
of flow and the location of the discharge will not cause pressure fluctuations
which might adversely affect the performance of the gravity system.
6.3 MATERIALS
6.3.1 Quality of Materials
(1) Material used in any part of a plumbing system shall satisfy the requirement
of the standards approved by the Authority and shall be free from defects.
6.3.2 Floor Flanges
(1) A floor flange for a fixture having an integral trap shall not be less than
5mm thick, and shall be made of brass, or cast iron and an all floor flange
bolts, washers, and nuts shall be of heavy brass, or gun metal.
6.1
6.3.3 Galvanizing
(1) All steel and wrought-iron pipes and fittings used for waste and all vent
pipes shall be galvanized.
6.3.4 Identification of Materials
(1) Every length of pipe, and every fitting in a plumbing system shall have
cast, stamped or indelibly marked on it, the maker's name or mark, and
the weight and class, or quality of the product.
6.3.5 Used Materials
(1) Used material shall not be installed in new works.
6.4 DESIGN
6.4.1 General
(1) The requirements in this clause for the design of sanitary drainage systems shall
apply to:
(a) domestic buildings including bungalows, houses, multi-storey flats and

halls of residence. Typical features of these installations are:
(i) single appliances connected to, and often closely grouped round a
discharge stack,
(ii) usage of appliances relatively haphazard and one at a time, and
(iii) peak time usage of appliances unlikely to include all in a group.
b) non-domestic buildings such as offices, factories, schools and other types

of public buildings. Typical feature of these installations are:
(i) ranges of appliances connected to the discharge stack by main

branch discharge pipes. Generally, appliances cannot be so closely
grouped round the stack as in domestic buildings;
(ii) usage of appliances relatively continuous and under simultaneous
occupation, and
(iii) peak time usage usually assumes maximum number of appliances
occupied and the resulting waste flows.
6.4.2 Traps
(1) General
(a) Water-filled traps for the exclusion of foul air from buildings, in a
conventional gravity discharge systems, shall meet the following
requirements:
(i) Traps should be designed so that deposits do not accumulate.

6.2
(ii) A trap which is not an integral part of an appliance should be

attached to, and be immediately beneath, its outlet and be self-
cleansing.
(iii) The internal surface of the trap should be smooth throughout.
(2) Fixture traps
(a) Plumbing fixture, except those with integral trap, shall be

separately trapped with water seal trap which shall be placed close
to the fixture outlet.
(b) The requirements of subsection 6.4.2(2)(a) above shall be deemed
to be satisfied where:
(i) a combination of plumbing fixtures are installed on a single
trap except that one compartment shall not be more than
150mm deeper than the other, and the waste outlets not more
than 750 mm apart.
(ii) one trap shall be installed for a set of not more than 3 single
compartment sinks, or laundry drains, or 3 lavatories
immediately adjacent to each other in the same room, except
that waste outlets shall not be more than 750 mm apart and
the trap centrally located where three compartments are
installed; and
(iii) one trap shall be installed for one set of not more than 3 stall
type urinals immediately adjacent to each other in the same
room.
(c) The vertical distance from the fixture outlet to trap weir shall not
exceed 600mm.
(d) Each fixture shall be separately trapped with a water seal trap
which shall be placed close to the fixture; except that a set of not
more than two laundry-trays immediately adjacent to each other, or
two -, or three - compartment sink with outlets at the same level,
shall be connected to a single trap; provided the trap shall be
located not more than 600mm from the farthest fixture outlet; and
the horizontal waste pipe shall be one size larger than the outlet.
(e) A grease intercepting trap shall be permitted to serve as a trap
where approved by the Authority.
(f) A waste pipe from a permanently connected laundry machine shall
be trapped and vented.
(g) A waste pipe from fixture, other than a water closet, shall not
discharge into the trap, lead bend or lead stub.
(i) Sanitary appliances, excluding those with integral traps, shall be
protected by a separate trap, with the exception of the following:
• One trap may protect:
- all the trays or compartments of a two or three compartment
sink,
- a two compartment laundry tray, or
- two similar type, single compartment appliances located in
the same room (see Figure 6.1).
• One trap may serve a group of floor drains, trough drains,
shower drains, a group of washing machines or a group of
laboratory sinks if the appliances;
- are in the same room, and

6.3
- are not located where they can receive solid organic waste,
food or otherwise (see Figure 6.2).
(3) Trapless appliances
(a) An indirectly connected appliance that can discharge only clear-water

waste other than a drinking fountain need not be protected by a trap; and
(b) An interceptor with an effective water-seal of at least 38.0mm may serve
as a trap (see Figure 6.3).
Figure 6.1: Trapping of sinks
6.4
Figure 6.2: Single traps for fixture groups
Figure 6.3: Interceptor as a trap
(4) Type and size of traps
(a) The trap outlet connection of a fixture itemized in Table 6.1 of these
Regulations shall be of a size not smaller than that prescribed.
Table 6.1: Minimum sizes of traps and outlets - connections for fixtures
Fixture Minimum nominal size of tap

fixture out-let connection (mm)
Bathtub, or without overhead shower 40
Beer-cabinet 40
Bidet 50
Combination of sink and laundry tray

40
Cuspidor or dental unit
35
Dental Lavatory
6.5
Fixture Minimum nominal size of tap

fixture out-let connection (mm)
Dish-washer, domestic type
35
Drinking fountain
50
Floor drain
35
Laundry tray
50
Refrigerator
40
Shower stall
50
Sinks (a) flushing run, with valve
(b) kitchen, domestic type 50
(c) pot, scullery
(d) service, with P-tray
75
(e) service, with trap-standard
(f) surgeon’s
40
40
Urinal (a) blow-out. pedestal or siphon jet type
50
(b) stall
75
(c) wall
50
Wash basin
75
50
Wash sink. circular or multiple
40
Water-closet (symphonic)
35
Water-closet (wash down)
40
75
90
(b) No trap shall be smaller than the waste pipe opening to which it is
connected.
(c) No fixture drain shall be smaller than the trap it shall serve.
(d) The soil pipe from a fixture with an integral trap shall not be smaller
than the fixture outlet.
(e) No trap shall have moving parts.

(f) The maximum developed length between an appliance's outlet and
the trap weir shall not exceed 900.0mm.
(g) Bottle traps (see Fig. 6.4(iii)) should be:
(i) designed to meet the requirements of 6.2, 6.4.2 (5) and 6.4.2 (6).
(ii) with no reduction in flow area through the trap.
(h) Drum traps (see Figure 6.4 (iv)) shall be 80.0mm or 100.0mm in diameter
and shall be provided with a water-seal of not less than 50.0mm.
6.6
(5) Trap seals
(a) The depth of water seal shall conform to the following requirements:
(i) for a two-pipe system, where the integral diameter of the trap
shall be 60mm, or more, the water seal shall be 50mm deep
and where the trap has an internal diameter of less than 60mm,
the water seal shall be 40mm deep,
(ii) for one-pipe, and single-stack system, where the internal
diameter of the trap shall be 75 mm or has and shall have
internal diameter of less than 75 mun, the water seal shall be
75mm deep; except where the trap is individually ventilated by
a back vent pipe connected within the limits of 75 mun to
450mm from the crown of the trap, in which case a 40mm deep
water seal shall be deemed adequate.
(b) The water seal for floor trap shall be not less than 75mm deep.
(c) (i) Pressure fluctuations should be limited in order to retain the above
water seals and thereby prevent foul air from entering buildings.
(ii) Pressure fluctuations shall not exceed ±25.0mm water gauge and
that at least 25.0mm of water seal shall be retained in the traps.
Figure 6.4: Types of Traps
6.7
(6) Trap clean-outs
(a) Every fixture trap shall have approved clean-out.

(b) The requirements of subsection (a), shall be deemed satisfied
where a fixture trap is combined with a fixture in which the trap is
accessible for cleaning purposes or where a portion of the fixture
trap is removable for cleaning purposes.
(7) Disconnecting traps
(a) The water seal of a disconnecting trap shall not be less than 50mm
for a trap of 100mm nominal size, or 60 mm for a trap of 150mm or
200mm nominal sizes.
(8) Building Traps
(a) A sanitary trap shall be installed where it is required by the

Authority.
(b) Every sanitary trap shall be vented through approved fresh air inlet
which shall be located no more than 1.2 metres from the inlet side
of the trap in the building side.
(c) A sanitary trap shall be provided with an accessible clean-out

which shall be located between the trap and the wall.
(1) Laboratory Sinks
(a) A group of laboratory sinks shall be connected to single vented

trap, except where sinks are to be used in connection with food, or
other organic matter.
(2) Prohibited traps
(a) Trap with partitions, except those which are integral with a fixture,
shall not be used unless approved by the Authority.
(b) No form of trap whose seal shall depend upon the action of movable
pans shall be used.
(3) Clean-outs
(a) A clean-out shall be of gasket and bolt type, or hub and ferrule type.
(b) A clean-out plug shall be made of brass, or other approved non-

corroding metal and shall have length equal to the thickness of the
wall of the piping into which it shall be threaded for its full length and
it shall have a solid raised nut or recessed socket so that the plug is
removable. The nut shall not be less than 20mm high and shall have
a least horizontal dimension of at least 25mm.
(c) A clean-out shall be connected to pipe of size up to 100mm nominal

diameter; and shall be of the same trade size as the pipe where the
clean-out is connected to pipe of size larger than 100mm nominal
diameter, the clean-out shall not be smaller than 100mm nominal
size.
6.8
(4) Location of clean-outs
(a) A clean-out shall be installed so as to be readily accessible.

(b) Where a clean-out is fitted to an underground pipe, it shall extend
above the ground, or a manhole/inspection chamber shall be
provided.
(c) A clean-out in concealed piping shall be extended through and
terminated flush with well or floor or inspection door or chasing in
the wall, or floor of sufficient size to permit removal of the clean-out
plug for proper cleaning of the system.
(d) A clean-out in an underground drain shall be extended above the
finished grade level, or a manhole/inspection chamber shall be
provided thereto.
(e) A clean-out shall be installed at the up-slope side of each location
at which a drain, or sewer changes direction by more than 45
degrees.
(f) Clean-outs in horizontal drainage line shall be at intervals not
greater than 15 metres where the piping does not exceed 100mm
nominal diameter or 30 metres where the piping exceeds a nominal
size than 100mm diameter.
(g) A waste pipe which is connected to sink shall be provided with
sufficient number of clean-outs such that each 6 metres of the
waste pipe, or fraction thereof is to be reached.
(h) For a building with floor slab on fill, or ground, or with less than
450mm crawl space under the floor, the building drain shall be
extended to the outside of the building and terminated in an
accessible clean-out, or an accessible clean-out shall be installed
in the building drain downstream from the stack at a distance not
exceeding 1.5 metres outside the building wall.
(e) A clean-out shall be installed in the building drain next to internal
face of the wall through which the drain passes and where a
building trap is located inside a building, the clean-out shall be
installed between trap and the wall.
(j) The size and spacing of cleanouts in graded discharge pipes of a
drainage system shall conform to those given in Table 6.2.
Table 6.2: Size and spacing of cleanouts
Maximum spacing, (m)

Size of drainage Minimum size of Cleanout
pipe,(mm) (mm) One way Two Way
Rodding Rodding
65 or less Same size as drainage pipe 7.5 15
80 and 100 80 15 30
over 100 100 26 52
(13) Separators and intercepting traps
(a) Where required, intercepting trap, including grease, oil, or sand

intercepting traps shall be provided for the proper handling of liquid
waste containing grease, or flammable waste sand, or other
6.9
substance harmful to the building drainage system, public sewer or

sewage treatment plant.
(b) The size, type and location of an intercepting, or separator shall be

approved by the Authority; and no waste, other than that requiring
treatment, or separation, shall be discharged into the intercepting
trap.
(c) A mixture of light and heavy solids, or liquids and solids having
various specific gravities shall be treated and then separated in
intercepting traps as shall be approved by the Authority.
(d) A grease intercepting trap shall be of sufficient capacity to hold all

grease, and shall be located as near as practicable to the fixture
from which the grease is discharged.
(e) For commercial building, grease intercepting trap shall be installed in
the waste line leading from sink, drain or other fixture in a
restaurant, hotel kitchen, bar, factory cafeteria, club, other
establishment where grease is introduced into the drainage system
in a quantity that causes line stoppage, or hinder sewage disposal.
(f) An oil separator shall be installed in the drainage system or section
of the system where oil or other flammable material is introduced or
admitted into the drainage system by accident or otherwise.
(g) A sand intercepting trap for heavy solids shall be designed and
located so as to be readily accessible for cleaning, and shall have
a water seal of not less than 150mm, and shall be vented so that
the vent pipe shall discharge at not less than 2.2 metres above
ground level.
(h) An interceptor trap shall be installed so as to provide ready
accessibility for cleaning, servicing and maintenance purposes.
(14) Interceptors traps for laundries
(a) A commercial laundry shall be equipped with an intercepting trap

with a removable wire basket or similar device that prevent strings,
rags, buttons, or other materials detrimental to the public sewerage
system from passing into the drainage system, and the basket shall
be removable for cleaning purposes.
(15) Interceptors traps for bottling establishments
(a) A bottling plant shall discharge process waste into intercepting trap
which shall be provided for the separation of broken glass or other
solids before discharging liquid wastes into the drainage system.
(16) Interceptor traps for slaughter houses
(a) A slaughtering-room drain shall be equipped with a separator which

shall prevent the discharge into the drainage system of feathers,
entrails and other materials likely to clog the drainage system and
slaughtering-room and dressing-room drains shall be provided with
approved intercepting.
(17) Oil Separators for garages
(a) An oil separator shall be installed in garage; and shall have a depth
of not less than 600mm below the invert of discharge drain.
6.10
(b) For motor vehicle maintenance garages, separators shall have a

capacity of 0.2 cubic meters, where not more than three vehicles
shall be serviced, and 0.03 cubic meters net capacity shall be
added for each additional vehicle up to ten vehicles, beyond which
the Authority shall determine the size of separator that shall be
constructed.
(c) Where motor vehicle maintenance garages are not maintained, as
in repair shops, the capacity of the separator shall be based on a
net capacity of 0.03 cubic meters for each 10 square meters of
floor area to be drained, with a minimum capacity of 0.2 cubic
metre of separator.
6.4.3 Discharge Pipes and Stacks
(1) General
(a) The performance characteristics of branch and stack discharge pipes are
mainly different; accordingly, they will be dealt with separately.
Nevertheless, features that apply to both shall be discussed in common.
(2) Materials
(a) Soil and waste pipes within building shall be of cast iron, galvanized
steel, brass, copper, plastic or other approved materials and the pipe
and fittings for each type of material shall comply with the
specifications set out in 6.3.3 (1) above .
(b) Underground piping or drain within a building shall be of cast iron, or
other approved materials and shall be heavy duty type.
(c) A pipe located one metre or more away from the external wall of a
building shall be of cast iron or asbestos cement, or bitumenized
fibre, or concrete, or vitrified clay, or uPVC, or other approved
materials.
(3) Underground pipes
(a) No black, or galvanized wrought iron steel pipe shall be used

underground as vent pipe, soil or waste pipe.
(4) Building drainage pipes
(a) Building drainage pipe shall be of vitrified clay, concrete, or

asbestos cement, or bitumenized fibre, cast iron, or uPVC or other
approved materials and shall have a minimum size of 100mm in
diameter.
(5) Multiple sewers and drainage systems
(a) Unless otherwise approved by the Authority, no sanitary sewer or

drain shall pass under any building other than the building that the
sewer or drain shall serve and the plumbing system of the building
or premises shall be separated from and be independent of any
other buildings or premises.
6.11
(b) Where the Authority approves under subsection (a) above, the
portion of pipe which shall be laid under the building shall be
embedded in concrete surround of not less than 150mm thick and
the sewer pipe shall have free connection with the outer air at each
end of the building.
(6) Fixture Units
(a) A fixture shall produce a hydraulic load equal to the number of

fixture units specified in Table 6.3 of these Regulations and the table
shall be used in estimating the total loads carried by soil, or waste
pipes.
Table 6.3: Equivalent fixture units
Fixture Number of fixture Units

Bathroom group, consisting of 1 water-closet; 1 8
wash basin; and a bathtub; or shower stall
1
Bathtub with or without covered shower 1 /2
Bidet 3
Combination of sink and laundry tray 2
Combination of sink and tray with food disposal 4
unit
Cuspidor or dental unit 1
Dental lavatory 1
Dishwasher, domestic 3
Drinking fountain 1
Floor drain 3
Ice box, domestic 1
Kitchen sink, domestic (a) with 40 mm trap 1
(b) with 50 mm trap 3
Lavatory tray 3
Shower stall 3
Showers in a group, each head 3
Sink: (a) flushing rim, with valve 8
(b) Pot, scullery 4
(c) Service, trap standard type 3
(d) Service, P-tray type 2
(e) Surgeon’s 3
6.12
Table 6.3: Continue

Fixture Number of fixture Units
Lavatory, surgeon’s with trap 2

Wash sink, circular or multiple type, each set of 2
faucets
Water-closet (a) tank operated: 6
(b) valve operated 8
1
Beer dispenser 1 /2
1
Dead fish tank 1 /2
1
Domestic washing machine 1 /2
Dish washer, commercial 4
Potable vegetable washer and peeler 4
Glass washer, commercial 4
1
Cocktail mixing unit 1 /2
Small laboratory sinks 1
Miscellaneous fixtures – waste pipe or trap: 3
(a) 35mm or less
8
(b) 40mm
4
(c) 50mm
3
(d) 60mm
2
(e) 75mm
3
(f) 100mm
(b) A fixture not included in Table 6.3 of these Regulations, but with
waste pipe, or trap listed in Table 6.4 of these Regulations, shall be
considered to produce a hydraulic load equal to the number of fixture
units prescribed in the Table 6.4.
Table 6.4: Maximum allowable number of fixture units for horizontal

fixture branches and stack
Maximum total load in fixture units
Stack not Stack 3 branch exceeding
exceeding intervals or storeys
Nominal 3 branch
Horizontal intervals or
diameter
fixture storeys Total load Total load for
stack pipe
branch*
(mm) for stack branch
interval of
storey
35 1 2 2 1
40 3 4 8 2
50 6 10 24 6
60 12 20 42 9
75 30** 50*** 60*** 16**
100 160 240 500 90
125 360 540 1100 200
150 620 960 1900 350
6.13
Maximum total load in fixture units

Stack not Stack 3 branch exceeding
exceeding intervals or storeys
Nominal 3 branch
Horizontal intervals or
diameter
fixture storeys Total load Total load for
stack pipe
branch*
(mm) for stack branch
interval of
storey
200 1400 2200 3600 600
250 2500 3800 5600 1000
300 3900 6000 8400 1500
375 7000 8300 10000 12000
* Does not include branches of the building drain

** Not over 2 water-closets
*** Not over 6 water-closets
N. B. (1) No water-closet shall be connected to a pipe having a

diameter less than 75mm.
(2) Single stack- system is not included in Table 6.4.
(3) Building drains and sewers are not included in Table 6.4.
(c) The maximum number of fixture units that shall be connected to

given size of horizontal. or vertical waste or soil pipe or drain shall
comply with Table 6.5, or Table 6.7 of these Regulations, except that
no water closet shall be connected to a pipe of less than 75mm
diameter.
Tables 6.5: Maximum allowable number of fixture units for building

drains and sewers
Nominal diameter Maximum total fixture units, for any portion* of a building of
drain of sewer drain or building sewer of various slopes
pipe (mm) Slope, per meter length
5mm 10mm 20mm 40mm
75 - 20 27 36
100 - 180 216 250
125 - 390 480 375
150 - 700 840 1000
200 1400 1600 1920 2300
250 2500 2900 3500 4200
300 3900 4600 5600 6700
375 7000 8300 10000 12000
,
* includes branches of a building drain.
(d) A pump, ejector, or other device or equipment discharging water,

liquid or water borne waste, in continuous or intermittent flow, shall
be deemed to produce a hydraulic load equal to 2 fixture units per 5
litres per minute of flow.
6.14
(7) Future fixtures
(a) Where provision is made for the future installation of a fixture, due
consideration shall be made in calculating the required size of drain
pipe and the construction shall be terminated with vented plugged
fitting.
(8) Drainage below sewer levels
(a) All building subsoil drains carrying sewage, or similar waste shall be
discharged into a leak proof sump, or receiving tank so located as to
receive the sewage by gravity and the sewage shall be lifted and
discharged into the building sewer by pump, ejector, or other
approved method.
(b) A sump or receiving tank shall discharge automatically or shall be of

sufficient capacity to hold the maximum accumulated sewage and
wastes for a period of not less than 24 hours and the discharge from
the sump, or receiving tank shall be connected to the sewer side of
the trap.
(c) Ejectors shall not be used for potable water supply.
(9) Basements and subsoil drainage
(a) A basement or cellar shall be drained into a trapped catch basin on a

floor drain.
(b) Where premises are subject to reverse flow, as approved anti-flood

valve shall be installed.
(10) Fixtures below ground levels
(a) Where premises are subject to reverse flow, plumbing fixture other
than a floor drain set below the level of the adjoining street or
property, but not draining into a sump, shall have an anti-flooding
device which shall be fixed in the discharge pipe.
(11) Prohibited connections
(a) No direct connection of a system discharging steam or hot liquid with

temperatures in excess of 75°C shall be made to building drainage.
(12) Joints and connections
(a) A joint of any type located between pipes, or between the pipes and
fittings in a drainage system shall be air-tight and water-tight and
shall pass all tests prescribed in these Regulations.
(13) Expansion joints
(a) Expansion joints shall be accessible and shall be used to provide for
expansion and contraction of the pipeline.
6.15
(14) Pipe sizing using fixture-unit method
(a) In this method, numerical values (fixture units) are assigned to sanitary
appliances to express their load producing properties. By assuming
partial flow conditions for both discharge stacks and branch discharge
pipes, the maximum number of fixture units permissible for a given pipe
or stack diameter can be stated. However, this fixture unit method
cannot give guidance on the venting requirements as it is based entirely
on hydraulic loadings and not on the pressures developed within the
stack.
(b) Fixture unit values for sanitary appliances in common use are given in
Table 6.3. For other appliances, the fixture unit value should be taken as
that given in the above table for an appliance with the same diameter
trap. The fixture-unit values of appliances contributing to flow in a pipe
should be added and the appropriate discharge pipe chosen. Regarding
fixture discharge pipes, when their lengths exceed those shown in Table
6.3, a trap vent shall be provided. Continuous flows, such as from a
pump, cooling water from equipment, or similar devices, shall not be
made to discharge into stacks or building drains.
(15) Branch discharge pipes
(a) Sizing
(i) The sizing of branch discharge pipes shall be as in (2) or (4) as

appropriate.
(b) Gradients of pipes
(i) The gradient of a branch discharge pipe should be uniform and

adequate to drain the pipe efficiently.
(ii) Minimum gradients shall comply with those indicated in Table 14.
Self-cleansing, in very flat gradients could be attained with high
flow rates (e.g. not less than 2.5l/s for diameter 150.0mm or
above pipes with a gradient of 1% ) and workmanship of a high
standard.
(iii) A gradient of not less than 20mm per metre run of pipe shall be
provided for a fixture waste pipe or fixture drain or horizontal
branch not larger than 75mm diameter.
(iv) Any horizontal drain pipe larger than 75mm in diameter shall have
a slope of not less than 30mm per metre run of pipe.
(v) The requirement of (iv) above, shall be deemed to be satisfied
where, due to conditions on site, building drain has a lesser slope
but velocity of flow of liquid exceeds of 0.6 metre per second.
6.16
Table 6.6 : Minimum gradients of discharge pipes
Size of graded section of Minimum gradient %

pipe
(a) DN40 2.50
(b) DN50 2.50
(c) DN65 2.50
(d) DN80 1.65
(e) DN100 1.65
(f) DN125 1.25
(g) DN150 1.00
(c) Lengths
(i) Branch discharge pipes, especially those serving wash basins and
urinals, should be kept as short as practicable to reduce both self-
siphonage effects and the accumulation of deposits.
(d) Connection methods
(i) Connections of graded-discharge pipes to each other or of fixture

discharge pipes to graded discharge pipes shall be made in
accordance with the following:
o
 Junctions, whether equal or unequal, shall be of the 45 or
sweep type (swept in the direction of flow).
 Graded discharge pipes of different sizes shall be connected
so that the soffits of both pipes are in continuous alignment.
 Unequal junctions shall have the soffit of the branch pipe
equal to or higher than the soffit of the pipe to which it
connects.
 The level of the trap or floor waste gully weir shall be at a
higher level than the soffit of the graded discharge pipe to
which it connects (see Figure 6.5) except where limiting
gradients are specified.
(ii) Bends in branch discharge pipes:
 Bends should be avoided, especially for single and ranges of

wash basins, as they can cause blockages and increase self-
siphonage effects.
 When they are unavoidable, should be of large radius.
6.17
Figure 6.5: Typical connection of fixture discharge pipe to a common

discharge pipe.
(iii) Opposed branch connections in the horizontal plane to a main

branch discharge pipe preferably should be avoided. If
unavoidable, pipes shall be connected using:
 two separate junction fittings; or

 junction branches fabricated so that the opposed junction entries
do not overlap.
(iv) Branch pipe connections to discharge stacks shall meet the

following:
 small diameter branch discharge pipes up to 65.0mm size may

be connected to stacks of 80.0mm or larger by swept or
unswept branch connections and some change in gradient close
o
to the stack is permissible to allow the use of a standard 87½
branch boss.
 a branch joining a discharge stack of equal diameter should be
swept in the direction of flow with a radius of not less than
o o
50.0mm for angles of 87½ to 67½ (see Figure 6.6(c) (i)).
o
 branch pipe connections at 45 or less do not need swept inlets
(see Figure 6.6(c) (ii)).
(v) Prevention of cross flow shall be taken care of as follows:
 opposed branch discharge pipes should be arranged so that the

risk of the discharge from one branch into the other is avoided.
 to prevent the discharge from a large diameter branch (e.g a
WC branch) backing up a smaller diameter branch (e.g a bath
branch), the latter should be connected to the stack so that its
centreline meets the centreline of the stack at or above the level
at which the centreline of the large branch meets the centreline
of the stack, or at least 200.0mm below it. Similar rules apply to
opposed small diameter branches (see Figure 6.7(a)).
6.18
 for opposed connections at the same level, this could be

achieved by using double Y-junctions with either an included
o
angle of 90 or swept entries.
 for opposed connections at different levels; graded branch or
fixture discharge pipes that are located at a lower level than any
other opposed similar pipes shall not be connected to a stack
within a restricted entry zone, as given in Figure 6.7(b).
6.19
Figure 6.6: Branch discharge pipe connections to discharge stacks
6.20
(i) Branch discharge pipes shall connect to a building drain or a graded

pipe in accordance with Figure 6.8 and the following:
Figure 6.7: Opposed branch connections to stack
 for stacks of three floor levels or more:
no connection shall be made closer than 2.5m downstream

or 1.0m upstream of the base of the stack; and no discharge
pipe connecting a fixture upstream of a junction which
connects a stack to a drain or graded pipe shall be closer
than 1.0m from the base of the stack.
6.21
• for stacks of two floor levels or less:
no connection shall be made closer than 500.0mm

downstream or upstream of the base of the stack; and no
discharge pipe connecting a fixture upstream of a junction
that connects a stack to a drain or graded pipe shall be within
500.0mm of the base of the stack.
(ii) Connections above base of stack shall meet the following:
 branch discharge pipes shall not connect to a stack (see

Figure 6.8) within the following distances measured vertically
from the base of the stack to the invert of the branch:
600.0mm for stacks that extend not more than five floor
levels above the base of the stack.
1.0m for stacks that extend more than five floor levels above
the base of the stack.
2.5m for all stacks in areas where foaming is likely to occur.
 for multi-storey systems, it is better to connect the ground

floor appliances into the horizontal drain and not directly to
the stack.
 for buildings over 20 storeys high, it may be necessary for

both the ground and first floor appliances to be so connected.
(viii) Waste-appliance discharge pipes, including those from floor

waste gullies, may connect immediately below the restricted
zone vertical depth by means of a short vertical drop adjacent to
the stack (see Figure 6.7 (a)(ii)).
6.22
Figure 6.8: Prohibited connections at or near base of stack
6.23
(16) Discharge stacks
(a) Sizing
(i) The internal size of a discharge stack should be not less than that of
the largest trap or branch discharge pipe connected to it.
(b) Bends at the base of stacks
(i) Bends at the base of a discharge stack should be of large radius,

(see Figure 6.9) at least a 200.0mm radius to the centreline, but
o
preferably two 45 large radius bends should be used.
(ii) Increasing the size at the base of a 100.0mm stack and bend to
150.0mm is an alternative but this may oversize the drain and be
uneconomic.
(c) Termination of discharge stacks
(i) The outlet of every discharge stack to the open air should be at
such a height and position that foul air does not cause a nuisance
or health hazard.
(ii) Outlets should also be positioned away from parapets of buildings,
so as to avoid obstacles to the flow of air.
(iii) The outlet of every discharge stack should be protected at its top-
most end with a durable domical cage or other cover which does
not unduly restrict the flow of air.
(iv) Discharge stacks serving only urinals
 A stack carrying only discharges from urinals is likely to become

rapidly encrusted with sediment and special attention to access
and regular cleaning is necessary.
Figure 6.9: Bend and branch connections at base of discharge stack
6.24
(v) Discharge stacks serving only kitchen sinks
 It is recommended that discharge stacks serving only kitchen

sinks should be avoided.
 If arrangement in (1) above cannot be avoided, ready access to

the stack should be provided and regular maintenance
arranged.
6.4.4 Drains
(1) General
(a) Branch drains (fixture discharge pipes, common or otherwise) for ground
floor appliances should be connected to external inspection chamber or
manholes where practicable.
(b) If the arrangement in (1) above is not practical the branch drains shall be
connected to the main drain swept in the direction of flow and access to all
such branch drains shall be envisaged.
(2) Size of drains
(a) The size of a vented drain shall be determined by the number of fixture-
units discharging into it.
(b) The fixture-unit loading for each vented drain shall not exceed the
maximum specified in Table 6.9 (Refer to Table 6.3 for assigned fixture-
units).
(c) The minimum size of a branch drain shall be DN50 provided that no soil
fixtures except urinals are connected thereto.
(d) Not more than two water closet pans shall be connected to DN80 drains.
(e) Where any fixture with a P-trap of DN40 is connected to DN50 or bigger
size branch drain, the eccentric taper fitting used to make the connection
shall be fitted immediately downstream of the fixture trap (see Figure 6.10),
the soffit of the fitting shall be level with the soffit of the pipe to which it
connects.
(f) A drain shall not diminish in size in the direction of flow.
(g) A drain shall not be oversized for the sole purpose of acquiring a grade
less than the minimum grade in Table 6.9.
(3) Gradients of drains
(a) The normal minimum grade of vented and unvented drains shall be as
given in Table 6.9.
(b) Where the minimum gradient, as specified in Table 6.9, cannot be

obtained, drains may be laid at the reduced grades given in Table 6.8.
(c) Where soil fixtures are connected, the fixture unit loading on the drain shall
be not less than the appropriate value given in Table 6.9.
6.25
Table 6.7 : Minimum gradients of drains
Nominal Size Minimum Grade, %

DN50 2.50
DN65 2.50
DN80 1.65
DN100 1.65
DN125 1.25
DN150 1.00
DN225 0.65
DN300 0.40
Figure 6.10: Connection of fixture traps (DN40) on grade to branch

drains
Table 6.8 : Minimum fixture unit loadings for reduced grade drains
Reduced Nominal Size of Drain

Gradients
DN 80 DN 100 DN 125 DN 150
%
1.45 9 10 - -
1.25 10 18 - -
1.10 x x 27 -
1.00 x x 38
0.85 x x x 25
0.65 x x x 160
6.26
NOTES:
(1)"x" indicates that the grade is not permitted for this size.
(2)"-" indicates that the grade is permitted by Table 15 for this size (i.e. not reduced
grade)
(4) Venting of drains
(a) Any vent pipe not terminating in open air shall be connected into the
main vent, or stack vent. Generally, vents in drains shall be provided:
(i) at the upstream end of any drain (see Figure 6.11) except where;
 the drain is connected to waste fixtures only (excluding WCs or

urinals) and if the combined length of the drain and the fixture
discharge pipe upto the inspection chamber or manhole is less
than 8.5m.
 the drain is connected to one or two water closet pans only and
if the combined length of the drain and the fixture discharge
pipe up to the inspection chamber or manhole is less than
8.5m. Notwithstanding the above requirement, vent pipes shall
be provided in accordance with (c), (d) or (e) below as
appropriate.
 the drain is connected to one or two urinals only and if the
combined length of the drain and the fixture discharge pipe up
to the inspection chamber or manhole is less than 8.5m.
(ii) at the upstream end of any branch drain to which a fixture trap or
floor waste gully is connected, if the distance from the weir of the
trap to the vented drain, inspection chamber or manhole exceeds
8.5m;
(iii) at the upstream end of any branch drain to which three or more
water closet pans are connected;
(iv) at the upstream end of any DN80 branch drain to which a
maximum of two water closet pans are connected; and
(v) along the line of a DN100 vented drain where ten or more water
closet pans are installed in a toilet block and are each individually
connected in accordance with (3b) below.
6.27
Table 6.9: Maximum fixture unit loading for vented drains
Nominal Size of Drain

Grade
% DN50 DN65
DN80 DN100 DN125 DN150 DN225 DN300
(Note 1) (Note 1)
5.00 3 60 215 515 1450 2920 11900 26900

3.35 2 36 140 345 1040 2200 9490 21800
2.50 1 25 100 255 815 1790 8060 18700
2.00 x x 76 205 665 1510 7090 16600

1.65 x x 61 165 560 1310 6370 15000
1.45 x x (50) (140) 485 1160 5810 13900
1.25 x x (42) (120) 425 1040 5360 12900

1.10 x x x x (380) 935 4970 12100
1.00 x x x x (340) 855 4500 11400
0.85 x x x x x (725) 3850 10300

0.65 x x x x x (595) 3250 9090
0.50 x x x x x x x 7720
0.40 x x x x x x x 6780
NOTE: (1) DN50 or DN65 pipe is permitted to be used in branch drains only,
provided that no soil fixtures except urinals are connected thereto.
(2) "x" indicates that the combination of nominal size and grade is not
permitted.
(3) Figures in brackets are the maximum fixture-unit loadings for
drains laid at reduced grades as permitted by 6.4.4(3).
(b) Materials
(i) Vent piping shall be of cast-iron, or galvanized wrought iron,

galvanised steel, ferrous alloy, brass, copper, plastic,
asbestos cement, or bituminous fibre.
(ii ) A vent piping which is placed underground shall be of cast-
iron, or other approved material.
(iii) Nothing in these Regulations shall be deemed to exclude the
use of other approved material of similar quality.
(c) The upstream vent of any drain shall be not less than DN50 and shall be
connected:
(i) to the drain downstream of a fixture or drainage trap connection,

provided any unvented section of drain upstream of the vent
branch complies with 5 (c) below.
(ii) at the vent extension of a stack located at or near upstream end of
the drain, provided any unvented section of the drain upstream of
the stack branch connection complies with (5) below.
(d) Regarding size of drain vents:
(i) where two or more vents are directly connected to a drain, these
vents may take the place of the single vent required by Table 6.12
6.28
provided the sum of the ratings is equal or greater than the vent for
the single vent.
Table 6.10: Size and rating of vents
Fixture units
Size of Vent
Discharging Vent Rating
Pipe
to Drain
DN40 > 1 ≤ 10 0.5
DN50 > 10 ≤ 30 1
DN65 > 30 ≤ 175 2
DN80 >175 ≤ 400 3
DN100 > 400 6
(ii) water closet pans connected to a DN100 drain in toilet blocks shall
be vented in accordance with the following:
 Where ten or more water closet pans, in any ground-floor toilet

block, are each separately connected to a vented drain, and
the spacings of respective branch drain connections to the
vented drain are such that 2.0m apart or less, one 50.0mm
vent shall be provided for the first ten pans and an additional
50.0mm vent shall be provided for each ten pans or part
thereof.
 The vents (above) shall be positioned to divide the water closet
pans into approximately equal groups.
 Where practicable, each vent shall branch from the vented
drain, or otherwise from a water closet pan branch.
(e) Protection of trap seals
(i) The seal of every fixture trap in a plumbing system shall be

protected against siphonage, back pressure, and air
circulation shall be ensured throughout the drainage system
by approved vent, or system of venting.
(f) Noxious or explosive gases
(i) Any device containing or giving off noxious or explosive gas

shall be vented, in an approved manner, directly to the outside
air.
(g) Main vents
(i) Every building in which plumbing is installed shall have at least

one main stack which shall run undiminished in size and as
directly as possible from the building drain through to the open
air above the roof.
(h) Stack vents
(i) A soil, or waste stack shall be extended vertically at least

300m m above the hood level rim of the highest fixture, then to
open air preferably through the roof or the stack vent and main
vent shall be connected together within the building at least
6.29
300mm above the flood level rim of the highest fixture with a
single extension from the connection to open air, preferably
through the roof.
(ii) A main vent shall connect full size at its base to the main soil
or waste pipe at, in or immediately below the lowest horizontal
branch and shall extend through the roof and to the open air,
or shall be connected with the stack vent.
(i) Vent terminals
(i) Extensions of vent pipes through roofs shall be terminated at
least l50 mm above such roofs.
(ii) Where any roof is used for any purpose other than weather
protection, the vent extensions shall run at least 1.8 metres
above the roof.
(iii) A vent terminal shall not be used as a flag pole, aerial, or for
similar purposes.
(iv) A vent terminal from the drainage system shall not be directly
beneath a door, window or other ventilation opening of a
building; nor shall the vent terminal be within 3.75 metres
horizontally of that opening and the vent shall not be less than
1.0 metres above the top of the opening
(j) Distance of vents from traps
(i) Except for a water-closet, pedestal urinal. trap standard, and
other fixtures which shall depend on siphoning action for the
proper functioning of the fixture, and except for connection
which shall not exceed one Y and one-eight bend between the
trap outlet and the vent, each fixture trap shall have a protecting
vent located so that the total fall in the fixture waste pipe from
the trap weir to the vent pipe shall not be greater than the
diameter of the waste pipe; and the developed length of the
waste pipe from the trap weir to the vent pipe shall not be less
than twice the diameter of the waste pipe and not greater than
450mm.
(k) Dual vents
(i) An individual vent pipe or continuous unit vent pipe installed
vertically shall be used as dual pipes whenever both fixture
waste pipe are connected on the same level with a vertical
waste pipe.
(ii) The total fall and developed length, in accordance with 3.6.8,
shall apply to all fixture waste pipes installed.
(l) Wet vents
(i) The waste pipe for a wash basin or sink shall serve as a vent
pipe for a bath tub or shower tray, provided that the waste pipe
serving as wet vent shall not be smaller than 35mm nominal
diameter for bath tub, or 40mm nominal diameter for shower
tray and the waste pipe for the bath tub, or shower tray shall
have a developed length of not less than 450mm between the
trap and the lead pipe.
(ii) Where there is no fixture on the floor above, a wet vent pipe
shall be installed in connection with a water-closet, urinal,
wash basin, or sink, in cases where the diameter of the waste
pipe of the fixture being vented is not less than 50mm, and the
diameter of the vent pipe is not less than 40mm.
6.30
6.31
(m) Circuit, loop and relief vents

(i) The branch or soil or waste pipe to which two, but not more
than eight water-closets or urinals are connected in series on
the same floor level, shall be vented by circuit, or loop vent
which shall be taken off above the centerline of the soil, or
waste pipe and in front of the last fixture connection.
(ii) Where other fixture discharges above a branch referred to in
subsection (i) above or where the branch is connected to a
building drain, each branch shall have a relief building vent
taken off above the centerline of the soil or waste pipe and in
form of the first fixture connection..
(iii) Two or more circuit vented horizontal branches. which serve not
more than eight fixtures in the same branch interval shall have a
combined relief vent and where the vent is jointed, the point of
joining shall not be less than 50 mm above the flood level of the
highest fixture connected to either branch.
(iv) A relief, or circuit vent shall not be used to serve other fixtures,
,
unless it is increased in size according to the fixture units
connected to it.
(v) The vertical leg of a waste pipe on a battery vented fixtures shall
not exceed 1 metre in length and shall not be less than the size
of the horizontal branch.
(n) Sump vents
(i) Every sump which shall receive sewage shall be vented by a

vent pipe of a size not less than one size smaller than the
largest inlet pipe of such a sump.
(o) Back vents
(i) No back vent shall be closer to a trap weir than a distance equal
to twice the diameter of the back vent.
(p) Venting of offsets
(i) Where a soil or waste stack has an offset greater than 45

degrees, or shall receive discharge from fixtures, one or more of
which shall be below the offset, or one or more of which is on
two or more floors above the offset, the soil or waste stack shall
be vented as two separate stacks, or shall be yoke vented.
(q) Yoke vents
(i) All soil, or waste stacks in building over five floors in height,
shall be provided with yoke vent at five storey intervals
measured from the top floor, and the size of the yoke vent shall
be equal to the size of the vent stack to which it shall connect.
(ii) The lower end of the 'Y' shall connect to the soil or waste stack
through a Y-connection below the horizontal branch serving that
floor, and the upper end shall connect to the main vent at not
less than 1 metre above the floor level.
6.32
(r) Vent headers

(i) A stack, or main vent shall be connected into a common vent
header at the top of the stack and extend to the open air at one
point through the roof.
(ii) Where a vent pipe is connected to horizontal soil or waste pipe,
the vent shall be taken off above the centerline of the soil or
waste pipe and the horizontal length shall not exceed 600mm,
after which it shall rise vertically to not less than 150mm above
the flood level rim of the fixture which shall be vented.
(iii) The connection between a vent pipe and main vent shall
be above the flood level rim of the highest fixture which is
served by the vent.
(iv) A horizontal vent pipe forming a brunch vent or circuit
vent or loop vent shall be located above the flood level
rim of the highest fixture which is served by such vent.
(s) Size and length of vents
(i) The minimum size of piping for a trap vent shall be in

accordance with Table 6.11 of these Regulations, and a
vent pipe shall not be less than 40mm nominal diameter.
6.33
Table 6.11: Size and length of vent pipes
Size of' soil fixture maximum length of vent pipe for variou'4 diameters or waste units stack
(mm) connected
Diameter of vent pipe required (mm)
40 50 60 75 100 125 150 200

40 8 45
40 10 30
50 12 22.5 60
50 20 15 45
60 42 9 30 90
75 10 9 30 60 180
75 30 18 60 130
75 60 15 25 120
100 100 10 30 80 300
100 200 9 27 75 270
100 500 6 21 55 210
125 200 10 25 105 300
125 500 9 21 90 270
125 1100 6 15 60 210
150 350 7.5 15 60 120 390
150 620 4.5 9 37.5 90 330
150 960 7 30 75 300
150 1900 6 21 60 210
200 600 15 45 150
390
200 1400 12 30 120
360
200 2200 9 27 105
330
200 3600 7.5 18 75
240
250 1000 22.5 37.5
300
250 2500 15 30
150
250 3800 9 25
105
250 5600 7.5 18 75
6.34
Table 6.12: Maximum distance of fixture traps from vents
Size of fixture drain (mm) Distance from trap to vent*

(m)
35 1.55
40 2.15
50 2.45
75 2.75
100 3.00
* Single stack only
(ii) The diameter of a relief vent shall not be less than one-
half the diameter of the soil or waste branch which shall
be served.
(iii) The diameter of a circuit or loop vent shall not be less
than one-half of the size of the diameter of the horizontal
soil or waste branch or the diameter of the vent stack,
whichever is the smaller.
(iv) Where single family dwelling has, in basement, a vent
pipe of 50mm nominal trade size, that a pipe shall be
used to vent one water-closet and one waste basin where
both are located in that basement.
(t) Vent not required
(i) Where one fixture is the only one to be connected at the

top-most waste opening, and is within developed length of
1.5 metres from the soil stack, such a fixture shall be
considered as individually vented.
(ii) No individual fixture vent is required where the installation
consist of not more than one water-closet and three other
smaller fixtures, all o f w h ich sh a ll b e in sta lle d in th e sa m e
flo o r e xce p t th a t th e d ista n ce b e tw e e n th e so il sta ck
v e n t a n d fix tu re tra p s sh a ll co m p ly w ith T a b le 9 o f th e se
R e g u la tio n s, a n d th e w a ste p ip e s sh a ll b e co n n e cte d
d ire ctly a n d se p a ra te ly to th e so il sta ck a t a p o in t a b o ve
th e w a te r-clo se t co n n e ctio n .
(iii) Where fixtures are connected to one horizontal branch through a
double Y, or sanitary tee in a vertical position, a common vent
for each two fixtures back-to-back, or double connection shall be
provided and the common vent shall be installed in a vertical
position as a continuation of the double connection.
(5) Unvented branch drains
(a) The requirements of unvented branch drains shall apply to:
(i) ground floor connections to a vented drain installed on grade; or

(ii) ground floor connections to inspection chambers or manholes.
(b) The size of an unvented branch drain shall be such that the sum of the
fixture unit ratings, as given in Table 6.3, shall not exceed the maximum
loading specified in Table 6.14.
6.35
(c) The maximum length of an unvented branch drain shall be:
(i) 8.5m to the weir of a fixture trap;

(ii) 2.5m from the reducer to the weir of the trap, where the fixture
discharge pipe is smaller than the unvented branch drain.
(d) Where fixtures are connected to unvented branch drains, the

requirements for the fixture discharge pipes shall be the same
configuration as for the connection of fixtures to group vented branches
and shall comply with Figure 6.11.
Table 6.13: Size of unvented branch drains
Size of Pipe Maximum Fixture Unit Loading

DN50 1 fixture unit (excluding a water closet pan or slop hopper)
DN65 3 fixture units (excluding a water closet pan or slop hopper); or 8
fixture units from one floor waste gully
DN80 12 fixture units (including not more than one water closet pan)
DN100 30 fixture units (including not more than two water closet pans)
6.36
Figure 6.11: Typical connections of ground-floor fixtures to unvented

branch-drains
(6) Unvented drains discharging to gullies
(a) A drain that receives only the discharge from waste fixtures may connect
to a gully. The maximum fixture unit loading, and the size of unvented
branch drain shall comply with Table 6.13.
(b) If the combined length of the unvented drain and fixture discharge pipe
exceeds 8.5 m, the branch line shall be vented.
6.4.5 Floor Waste Gullies
(1) General
(a) For the purpose of Clause 6.4.5, floor waste gullies shall be deemed as a
fixture trap (see Figure 6.13).
6.37
Figure 6.12: Typical connection of wastes to a floor waste gully
(b) The provision of floor waste gullies shall be made in agreement with the
Authority.
(2) Permitted discharges
(a) Fixtures that are permitted to discharge to floor waste gullies shall be as
given in Table 6.16.
(b) Basins and drinking fountains that discharge to a floor waste gully shall
have a trap installed immediately adjacent to the outlet of the fixture.
(3) Connection of fixtures
(a) With the exception of fixture pairs, each fixture shall be connected to a
floor waste gully by an individual waste pipe, at a grade of not less than
2.5%.
(b) Waste pipes shall not exceed the lengths specified in Table 6.14.
Table 6.14: Discharge to floor waste gullies
Fixture permitted to discharge to Maximum length of waste pipe, (m)

floor waste
Untrapped fixture Trapped fixture
gully
(a) Basin, drinking fountain Not permitted 2.5
(b) Bath, shower/bath 1.2 2.5
(c) Cleaners' sink, ablution trough 1.2 2.5
(d) Bar sink, clothes washing
1.2 2.5
6.38
Fixture permitted to discharge to Maximum length of waste pipe, (m)

floor waste
Untrapped fixture Trapped fixture
gully
machine 1.2 2.5
(e) Shower
NOTE: Where foaming is likely to cause a problem, clothes-washing

machines should not discharge through a floor waste gully.
(4) Trap vents prohibited
(a) Trap vents shall not be installed on fixture discharge pipes that connect to
a floor waste gully.
Table 6.15: Size of vent pipes for traps
Nominal Trap Size (mm) Nominal Vent Pipe Size (mm)
35 35
40 35
50 40
60 40
75 40
100 50
125 60
150 60
(5) Removable grate
(a) Floor waste gullies shall be installed with an accessible removable grate
and a riser not less than DN80 at floor surface level, except that, if the
sole function of the floor waste gully is to dispose of waste spillage and
washdown water, a DN50 outlet and riser may be used.
(6) Height of gully riser
(a) The height of the riser shall be measured from the top of water seal to the
floor surface level and shall comply with the following:
(i) The minimum height shall comply with those given in Table 6.16.
(ii) The maximum height shall be 600.0mm when receiving discharges
from fixtures as shown in Table 6.16.
(7) Discharge from tundishes
(a) In addition to the discharges permitted in Table 6.14, tundishes receiving

discharges from water heater drains, air conditioning units, other
condensate lines and the like, may discharge to a floor waste gully. The
maximum length of discharge pipe shall not exceed 8.5m.
(8) Size of gully trap outlet
(a) The minimum size of floor waste gully trap outlet shall be as specified in
Table 6.17.
6.39
Table 6.16: Minimum height of floor waste gully risers
Minimum height (water seal to

floor level) (mm)
Waste fixture connected
o o
88½ entry 45 entry
Shower 150 100
Bath (one only maximum) 250 200
Clothes washing machine (Domestic) 300 250
Other fixtures 250 150
Table 6.17: Minimum size of floor waste gully traps
Total fixture unit rating of waste fixtures Outlet size of floor waste
connected to floor waste gully gully trap
≤3 DN50
≤10 > DN65 < DN100
NOTE: Shower outlets may be used as floor waster gullies.
(9) Connection of waste pipes
(a) Individual waste pipes connecting into the riser of a floor waste gully shall
o o
enter the riser at an angle between 45 and 88½ , as close as possible
to, but above the level of the water seal.
(10) Size of waste pipes from fixtures
(a) The size of waste pipes from fixtures connecting into floor waste gullies
shall be as given in Table 6.3.
6.5 GENERAL INSTALLATION OF PIPEWORK
6.5.1 Support and Fixing of Pipework
(1) Brackets, clips and hangers shall be installed at the spacings given in Table 6.18
and shall be:
(a) formed of a suitable material,

(b) securely attached to the building structure, and not to any other service,
(c) designed to withstand the applied loads,
(d) protected against corrosion where exposed to a corrosive environment,
(e) made from similar material to the pipe or lined with a non-abrasive, inert
material on the surfaces that may contact the pipework,
6.40
Figure 6.13: Steep offsets below lowest connection
(f) clamped securely to prevent movement, unless designed to allow for

thermal movement,
(g) restrained to restrict lateral movement, and
(h) designed so that pipes and fittings are supported with minimal load being taken by
the joints.
Table 6.18: Maximum spacing of brackets, clips & hangers
Pipework material Maximum spacing of supports (m)

Vertical pipes Graded pipes
Cast iron 3 3
Ductile iron (steel) 3 3
uPVC DN 40-50 2 1
uPVC DN 65-150 2.5 1.2
6.41
Figure 6.14: Graded offset
(2) The method of supporting or spacing of pipes by means of brazing or welding a

short section of any material to the surface of each pipe shall not be permitted.
6.5.2 Location
(1) Pipework shall be located:
(a) so that it does not interfere with the normal operation of any door,
window, access opening, or with any other aspects of the normal
operation of a building;
(b) where it does not cause a nuisance or injury to persons;

(c) not directly above potable water storage tanks;
(d) as close as practicable to the wall of any building or supporting structure;

(e) so that it is adequately protected from mechanical damage;
(f) at least 100.0mm clear of any electrical cable;
(g) not less than 50.0mm from any other pipework; and
(h) when constructed of plastic,
(i) at a minimum distance of 75.0mm from a lagged hot water pipe, or

150.0mm from an unlagged hot water pipe; and
6.42
(ii) below a hot water pipe at a minimum distance of 150.0mm from a

lagged hot water pipe or 300.0mm from an unlagged hot water pipe.
6.5.3 Concealment of Pipes and Fittings
(1) Pipes and fittings installed in buildings may be concealed provided inspection
openings are accessible.
(2) Inspection openings may be extended to a wall or slab surface to facilitate ease
of maintenance.
(3) Pipework shall not be installed in any structural concrete slab, beam, column,
concrete wall or load-bearing brickwork wall except within ducts when permitted
by the structural engineer.
(4) Walk-in pipe ducts
(a) Pipework concealed in walk-in-pipe ducts shall be installed so that there

is clear and adequate space remaining to facilitate access for any
inspection.
(b) The ducts should be adequately ventilated, lighted and easily drainable.
6.5.4 Inspection and Testing of Installations
(1) Inspections and tests should be made during the installation of the drainage
system as the work proceeds (general inspection) to ensure that the pipework
is properly secured and clear of obstructing debris and that all work which is to
be concealed is free from defects before it is finally enclosed.
(2) On completion, the drainage system should be inspected properly (final

inspection) to ensure that no cement droppings, rubble or other objects are left
in the pipes and that no jointing material projects into the pipe bore. When this
has been done; tests for soundness and performance of the pipework should
be made.
(3) Drainage pipework and fixtures shall comply with the following when tested:
(a) The respective sections of any drainage and venting pipework shall be
free of leaks when subjected to:
(i) hydrostatic test to flood level; or

(ii) air test to 30.0kPa for a minimum period of 3.0min.
(b) Fixtures of all kinds shall be tested by subjecting them to normal use.
After each relevant test, the residual water seal in the trap of the fixture
concerned and in the trap of any other fixture connected to the same
system of discharge pipes shall comply with 6.4.2(5).
6.5.5 Maintenance
(1) Cleaning and descaling shall be carried out according to Table 6.19.
(2) Periodic inspection
6.43
(a) In addition to general maintenance work, periodic inspections and tests

shall be carried out to ascertain if there are any defects due to normal
wear and tear, misuse or negligence.
(b) All defects should be made good.
(c) All drainage pipework design should be accompanied by a periodic

maintenance schedule.
Table 6.19: The chemical cleaning of discharge stacks & branches
Application Method Notes

The removal of lime scale Apply diluted, inhibited, acid based Acid based descaling
accumulations in discharge descaling fluid directly to scale. fluid will attack certain
stacks and branch pipes. jointing materials and
For heavy lime scale encrustations care must be taken in
undiluted descaling fluid can be used. identifying this and
The softening scale can be removed by keeping the contact time
thorough flushing and where practicable as short as practicable.
by the use of drain rods and scrapers.
On completion the system should be
thoroughly flushed with clean water.
The removal of grease and Fill the wash basin or sink with very hot
soap residues from the dis- water and add soda crystals at the rate
charge pipes from wash of 1.0kg soda crystals to 9.0l of hot
basins and sinks water. When the crystals have
dissolved, release basin or sink plug to
flush trap and discharge pipe.
6.44
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 7: EXTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM FOR BUILDINGS ........................ 7.1

7.1 SCOPE ............................................................................................................ 7.1
7.2 GENERAL ....................................................................................................... 7.1
7.3 MATERIALS .................................................................................................... 7.2
7.4 FOUL DRAINAGE ........................................................................................... 7.2
7.4.1 General .................................................................................................. 7.2
7.4.2 Determination of Pipe Size and Gradient .............................................. 7.2
7.4.3 Connections to Foul Drains ................................................................... 7.6
7.5 GROUNDWATER DRAINAGE ....................................................................... 7.6
7.5.1 General .................................................................................................. 7.6
7.5.2 Groundwater Drains Under Buildings .................................................... 7.7
7.5.3 Disposal of Groundwater Discharge ...................................................... 7.7
7.5.4 Ground Water Flow ............................................................................... 7.7
7.5.5 Drain Pipe Sizes .................................................................................... 7.7
7.6 LAYING OF DRAIN PIPES ............................................................................. 7.7
7.6.1 General .................................................................................................. 7.7
7.6.2 Proximity to Other Services ................................................................... 7.8
7.6.3 Depth of Cover ...................................................................................... 7.9
7.7 EXCAVATION, BEDDING, SUPPORT AND BACKFILLING ....................... 7.10
7.7.1 Excavation of Trenches ....................................................................... 7.10
7.7.2 Bedding of Drains ................................................................................ 7.11
7.7.3 Side Support, Overlay and Backfill Over Drains .................................. 7.13
7.8 INSPECTION CHAMBERS AND MANHOLES ............................................. 7.13
7.8.1 General ................................................................................................ 7.13
7.8.2 Dimensions .......................................................................................... 7.15
7.8.3 Materials of Construction for Inspection Chambers and Manholes ..... 7.15
7.8.4 Channels and Benching ...................................................................... 7.16
7.8.5 Access to Manholes-step Irons ........................................................... 7.16
7.8.6 Drop-pipe Manholes (See Figure 7.7) ................................................. 7.17
7.8.7 Inspection Chamber and Manhole Covers and Slabs ......................... 7.17
7.9 INTERCEPTORS, SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL UNITS ......... 7.18
7.9.1 Interceptors ......................................................................................... 7.18
7.9.2 Septic Tanks ........................................................................................ 7.20
7.9.3 Cesspools ............................................................................................ 7.23
7.9.4 Effluent Disposal ................................................................................. 7.24
i
7.10 INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE OF DRAINAGE WORKS .. 7.25

7.10.1 Inspection and Testing of Drainage Works ......................................... 7.25
7.10.2 Maintenance and Periodic Inspection ................................................. 7.28
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 7.1: Design for foul drain pipes; conversion of fixture units to flow rates .. 7.3
Figure 7.2: Discharge capacities of drain pipes running full, ¾ and proportional
depth (Hydraulic roughness=0.6mm)................................................. 7.3
Figure 7.3: Discharge capacities of drain pipes running full, ¾,2/3 and
proportional depth (Hydraulic roughness=1.5mm)............................. 7.5
Figure 7.4: Exclusion zone for electrical cables and gas pipes ........................... 7.9
Figure 7.5: Typical footing detail ........................................................................ 7.11
Figure 7.6: Bedding of drains ............................................................................. 7.14
Figure 7.7: Drop-pipe at manholes .................................................................... 7.19
Figure 7.8: Typical septic tank-two compartments ............................................. 7.22
Figure 7.9: Cross-section of typical underdrain ................................................. 7.26
LIST OF TABLES
Table 7.1: Minimum depth of cover .................................................................... 7.9

Table 7.2: Minimum dimensions for inspection chambers & manholes ............ 7.17
ii
SECTION 7
EXTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM FOR BUILDINGS
7.1 SCOPE
(1) This section sets out requirements and recommendations:
(a) for the design, layout, construction, testing and maintenance of foul and
groundwater drainage system constructed in the ground under and
around buildings;
(b) for the design and construction of septic tanks, cesspools and subsoil
disposal systems; and
(c) regarding pipe materials and their jointing.
7.2 GENERAL
(1) A drainage system should be designed, installed and maintained so as to

convey and discharge its contents without causing a nuisance or danger to
health arising from leakage, blockage or surcharge.
(2) Every building in which plumbing fixtures are installed and premises having
drains thereon, shall have a connection to a public sewer. Where no public
sewer line exists, the drains shall be connected to a sewage disposal system
approved by the Authority.
(3) Ground water (subsoil water) should be drained from around and underneath
buildings, structures, etc. whenever required. This should be effected through
plain open-jointed porous or perforated pipes laid in trenches or graded
granular or other porous material fills or packs around and underneath the area
to be drained.
(4) Access should be provided at all bends and junctions. Access, in this context,
is meant to be an inspection chamber or manhole. Inspection chambers and
manholes should be sited so as to avoid the need for acute changes in
direction of flow from branch drains.
(5) For drains laid outside buildings, the following shall be satisfied:
(a) Part of the pipework laid under buildings should be limited to short
branches and should be made to enter manholes (or inspection chamber)
at no more than 2.0m from the building line whenever possible.
(b) The drain trench should not impair the stability of a building. When
drains are laid parallel to the foundation, care should be taken that the
foundations are not undermined.
(6) For drains laid under buildings the following shall be met:
(a) The effects of possible differential settlement between the building and
the drains shall be limited to acceptable standards;
7.1
(b) Differential settlement in drains shall be accommodated by means of

flexible joints or other considerations by a qualified engineer.
(7) A free passage of air should be maintained through the system.
(8) (a) Existing drains which are or will be disused when superseded by new
installations should be traced, grubbed up and removed.
(b) Where (a) above is impracticable, disused drains should be filled with
suitable material such as weak concrete, cement grout or similar material
to prevent their collapse or, in appropriate circumstances, sealed against
ingress of water and vermin.
(1) Flexible connections should be provided in earthquake prone areas.
7.3 MATERIALS
(1) Pipes, fittings and joints shall comply with the relevant standard and shall be
acceptable upon the approval of the Authority.
(2) Used material shall not be installed in new works.
7.4 FOUL DRAINAGE
7.4.1 General
(1) Clause 7.4 applies to drains of the separate system.
(2) All subsoil drainage system and surface runoff due to rain shall be excluded
from the system; i.e., foul drainage system up to a treatment unit, collection
point or disposal system.
(3) In determining the size and gradient of the building sewer (external drain), the
following shall be observed:
(a) The fixture unit loading associated with it is converted to a corresponding

flow (l/s) by making use of Figure 7.1
(b) For assigned fixture unit values of appliances, reference shall be made to
Table 6.3.
(4) The fixture unit values contributing to the flow in a given drain shall be added
and the equivalent peak flow rate (l/s) obtained. When the drain carries
continuous flows from other sources, their rates can be added to the above
peak flow rate.
7.4.2 Determination of Pipe Size and Gradient
(1) A pipe diameter and gradient shall be selected taking account of the factors in
(2) to (4) below (see Figures 7.2 and 7.3).
(2) Risk of recurring blockages during normal use shall be minimized by ensuring a
high standard of drain and manhole construction throughout the system and
that pipes are not unacceptably oversized.
7.2
(3) (a) Foul drains, starting from manholes adjacent to or within buildings,
should be of minimum size DN100, except for WC discharges which
should be DN150.
(b) The size of a drain pipe and its gradient at which it is to be laid should be
so chosen that at peak flow, the risk of induced trap siphonage is
minimized by ensuring adequate air movement in the drain by not
exceeding a proportional depth of 0.75.
(4) (a) Choice of gradients should be such as to maintain self-cleansing velocity

(min. 0.6m/s) and that will not make scouring (max. 3.0m/s)
(b) Where it is expected that a drain may be affected by settlement, selected

gradient should be such as to ensure a satisfactory fall will be
maintained.
Figure 7.1: Design for foul drain pipes; conversion of fixture units to
flow rates
7.3
Figure 7.2: Discharge capacities of drain pipes running full, ¾ and

proportional depth
(Hydraulic roughness=0.6mm)
7.4
Figure 7.3: Discharge capacities of drain pipes running full, ¾,2/3 and
proportional depth (Hydraulic roughness=1.5mm)
7.5
7.4.3 Connections to Foul Drains
(1) A connection to a foul drain within the premises of a building should be effected
via an inspection chamber or manhole.
o
(2) (a) A branch connection should have an angle of entry not greater than 90
at the internal face of an inspection chamber or manhole.
(b) Where practicable, it should be installed at half pipe level of the main
channel to provide cascade entry, and the connection so shaped as to
discharge into it with minimum turbulence and without causing backing-
up into other connections.
(3) (a) Where the invert level of an incoming drain is 1.0m or more above that of
the manhole, a drop-pipe shall be provided to convey the discharge to
the lower level.
(b) Suitable access should be provided to facilitate testing and clearing of
blockages.
(c) Where space is available without adversely affecting access of working

space, a drop-pipe may be installed inside a manhole.
(d) When the drop-pipe is larger than 150.0mm,it should be constructed

outside the manhole and provided with structural protection and support
suited to the pipe material and ground conditions (see Figure 7.7).
(4) (a) The drain connection to a public sewer system should be agreed with the
appropriate drainage authority.
(b) The connector drain (to a sewer system) should be laid so as to provide
an adequate hydraulic gradient and to ensure that the minimum length of
drain is subjected to backflow would the sewer surcharge.
(c) When a drain is connected to a septic or settlement tank, the entry

velocity should be restricted so as to ensure that quiescent conditions
within the tank are disturbed as little as possible.
(d) Provision should be made for effectively rodding the incoming drain and
its connection to any tank or unit.
7.5 GROUNDWATER DRAINAGE
7.5.1 General
(1) (a) All pipes for field drains should be laid to planned lines and gradients.
(b) Plain pipes should be laid with open-joints, but perforated and porous
pipes should be fitted tightly together. Perforated pipes should be laid
with holes equally distributed about the vertical axis of the drain.
(c) Trenches for plain-ended or ogee-jointed pipes should be just wide
enough at the bottom to accommodate the pipes and should be trimmed
to form a uniform bed for the pipes.
(2) Where a rubble drain is required, it should be constructed by excavating a

trench and filling it with selected rubble or stone through which water can
percolate. Renewal may be necessary from time to time.
7.6
(3) (a) Where a trench drain is required, it should be constructed by excavating

a trench and laying therein open-jointed pipes, perforated or porous
material.
(b) The pipes should be surrounded with fill through which water can
percolate freely.
(4) (a) Where it is essential to prevent the migration of some soil particles with
groundwater, filter drain shall be used.
(b) The pipe should be surrounded with graded granular material or a

polypropylene or fabric filter designed in accordance with acceptable
engineering practice.
(5) The selection of an appropriate layout of ground water drain shall depend on
the nature of the subsoil and the topography of the site.
7.5.2 Groundwater Drains Under Buildings
(1) The laying of groundwater drains under buildings, unless and otherwise
required by the engineer, should be avoided .
(2) Should it be necessary to route a groundwater drainage system under a

building, this should be done using jointed non-porous pipes.
7.5.3 Disposal of Groundwater Discharge
(1) A groundwater drainage system shall discharge through sand trap or directly
into a ditch or a watercourse.
(2) In suitable ground conditions, groundwater drainage system shall discharge to

a soakaway, preferably, through a sand trap.
(3) Where the alternatives in (1) and (2) above for groundwater disposal are not
available, a groundwater drainage system may discharge into a surface water
drain through a sand trap.
(4) Under special circumstances, a groundwater drainage system may discharge
into a foul drain (after treatment) through an intercepting trap.
7.5.4 Ground Water Flow
(1) The flow rate of ground water shall be estimated from an in-depth assessment
of the quantity of run-off likely to affect the area concerned, natural slope of the
terrain around the area, terrain soil permeability and maximum water table.
7.5.5 Drain Pipe Sizes
(1) Drain pipe sizing shall be in accordance with the provisions of Clause 7.4.2.
(2) Main groundwater drains should be not less than DN150, and the branches not
less than DN100.
7.6 LAYING OF DRAIN PIPES
7.6.1 General
(1) Where a drain is to be located in a road, public place or the like in an open
trench, it shall be installed as follows:
7.7
(a) It shall be laid to an even grade, straight, and have no lipped joints or
internal projections.
(b) It shall have a minimum number of changes of grade and direction.
(c) It shall be continuously supported under the barrel, other than for cast
iron and ductile iron pipes and fittings.
(d) It shall be protected against damage by a minimum cover as specified in

Table 7.1.
(e) It shall be watertight
(f) It shall have the interior of each pipe cleared of any foreign matter before
it is laid and prior to commissioning.
(g) It shall have a drop manhole installed to connect drains at different

elevations; and
(h) Where the presence of any obstacle prevents the drain from being laid at
an even grade and with the required cover, then wherever practicable,
the drain shall pass beneath the obstacle at an even grade with a drop
permitted only at the point of connection or in any other way approved by
the Authority.
7.6.2 Proximity to Other Services
(1) Electrical cables and gas pipes:
(a) when installed aboveground, shall not be within 100.0mm of any drain
pipe.
(b) when installed belowground, shall not be within 600.0mm of either side of
a below ground drain. Wherever this separation cannot be achieved, the
distance may be reduced to 300mm provided that the electrical cable or
gas pipe is suitably marked with bricks, stone masonry or equivalent
durable material painted red, within the exclusion zone (see Figure 7.4).
(2) Any belowground cross-over of a drain within the exclusion zone shall:
0
(a) cross at an angle of not less than 45 ;
(b) have a vertical separation of not less than 100.0mm; and
(c) be suitably marked with bricks, stone masonry or equivalent durable

material, painted red.
(3) Stormwater pipes shall be located at least 100.0mm clear of any part of the foul
drain. The pipes shall be watertight and properly supported.
(4) The proximity of foul drain pipes to water service pipes shall be as in 4.10.2(2).
(5) Where services, other than electrical cables or gas pipes, cross any part of the
drain, the service shall be not less than 25.0mm above the drain and access for
maintenance shall not be impeded.
7.8
7.6.3 Depth of Cover
(1) Drains shall be laid in a manner that provides protection against mechanical
damage and deformation due to vehicular loadings.
(2) Drains shall be laid with a depth of cover, measured from the top of the pipe
socket to the finished ground surface, as specified in Table 7.1.
`
Figure 7.4: Exclusion zone for electrical cables and gas pipes
Table 7.1: Minimum depth of cover
Location Minimum depth of cover (mm)

cast iron, ductile iron other authorized
materials
(a) Public roads, right- of-way, and other
place subject to heavy vehicular
traffic 300 700
(b) Other driveways 300 600
*
(c) Elsewhere Nil 300
* Except as provided in (3) and (4) below.
7.9
(3) Drains constructed of materials other than cast iron or ductile iron, having less
than the minimum cover as specified in Table 7.1, shall be covered by at least
50.0mm of overlay and then shall be paved with:
(a) 100.0mm minimum thickness of reinforced concrete, where subject to

heavy vehicular loading;
(b) 75.0mm minimum thickness of brick or concrete paving, where subject to

light vehicular traffic; or
(c) 50.0mm minimum thickness of brick or concrete paving, where not

subject to vehicular traffic.
(4) Drains belowground and under buildings may be laid with less than the
minimum cover specified in Table 7.1 provided that:
(a) 25.0mm overlay separates the drain from a reinforced concrete slab; or
(b) the drain is adequately protected from mechanical damage.
(5) Drains in proximity to footings and foundations shall comply with the following:
o
(a) Drains passing under a strip footing at not less than 45 (between the
drain and the longer side of the footing) shall have a minimum clearance
of 25.0mm from the top of the pipe to the underside of any footing.
(b) Drains laid through footings or walls, other than belowground external
walls, shall be left with an annular space of not less than 25.0mm filled
with a liner of flexible material.
(c) Pipes may be laid through below-ground external walls provided that:
(i) two flexible joints are provided externally within 600.0mm of the
external face of the wall, and such joints are not less than
300.0mm apart or any other provisions approved by the Authority.
(ii) the penetration of the wall is made watertight.
(d) Where the excavation is to be laid parallel to a footing, the excavation

shall comply with Clause 7.7.1 and the trench shall be located beyond a
0
45 angle from the base of the footing (see Figure 7.5).
(e) Requirements for pile systems shall be determined by a qualified

engineer.
7.7 EXCAVATION, BEDDING, SUPPORT AND BACKFILLING
7.7.1 Excavation of Trenches
(1) Any trench excavation in which the sides are not self-supporting, or when
required by the Authority, shall comply with the relevant regulations which
require that these trenches shall be adequately supported against collapse.
(2) Trenches shall be made with a minimum clearance of 100.0mm on each side of
the drain barrel measured to the inside of the sheeting or side of trench. The
trench width up to the level of the top of the drain shall be kept as narrow as
practicable, but not less than the above minimum clearance.
7.10
(3) Where a trench has been excavated deeper than necessary, the excess depth
shall be filled either with bedding material compacted to achieve a density as
near to the original soil density as possible or with concrete.
(4) Excavation by a machine shall not be carried out within 600.0mm of the point of
connection to the municipal sewer main or any other sewage receiving unit
such as tanks, channels, etc.
(5) Excavation in water-charged ground shall be in accordance with the following:
(a) Consideration shall be given to the effect on adjacent buildings and the
trench.
(b) The water level shall be lowered below the base of the proposed trench
and maintained at that level during excavation, laying of the drain, and
backfilling of the trench.
(c) Dewatering shall be carried out in accordance with the following:
(i) Gravity drainage, pumping or similar methods may be used.

(ii) The removed water shall be discharged into a location where it will
not cause a nuisance or damage.
(iii) The removed water shall not discharge, either directly or indirectly,
into the sewer.
Figure 7.5: Typical footing detail
7.7.2 Bedding of Drains
(1) General
(a) The bed on to which drains are laid shall be adequate to continuously
support the installed drain accommodating the loads from the pipeline
and surrounding ground in accordance with the following:
7.11
(i) In stable sand, drains shall be directly supported on the

undisturbed base of the trench provided that the base of the trench
is free of any rocks or tree roots.
(ii) In loam, clay, rock, shale, gravel, or ground containing hard
objects, drains shall be supported on a bedding material placed in
the base of the trench.
(iii) Ground water or surface water entering the trench shall not disturb
the bedding materials.
(2) Materials
(a) Materials used for bedding of drains shall comply with the following:
(i) Quarry crushed hard stone shall have a maximum aggregate size
of 10.0mm.
(ii) Uniform crushed hard stone shall be of size ranging from 2.5mm to
10.0mm.
(iii) Sand shall be free from clay, gravel, shells, or hard particles.
(iv) Cement mortar shall be composed of 1:4, portland cement to clean
sand and clean water.
(v) Excavated material shall be free from clay, gravel, shells, or other
hard particles.
(3) Installation
(a) Bedding shall be installed in accordance with the following:
(i) Crushed hard stone shall:
• extend across the full width of the base of the trench;

• be a minimum depth of 75.0mm measured below the bottom of
the pipe; and
• directly support the pipes and fittings.
(b) Cement mortar bedding shall:
(i) be a minimum depth of 50.0mm measured below the barrel of the

pipe;
(ii) be not less than 75.0mm wide;
(iii) be kept clear of flexible joints;
(iv) have pipes supported at not greater than 1.5m centres prior to
placing the mortar bedding; and
(v) be used where the base of the trench is rock or shale and where
the grade is greater than 20%.
(c) Excavated material shall:
(i) be thoroughly compacted by tamping in layers not greater than

75.0mm;
(ii) extend for the full width of the trench; and
(iii) have a minimum thickness of 75.0mm.
7.12
7.7.3 Side Support, Overlay and Backfill Over Drains
(1) The installation of pipe underlay, pipe side support and pipe overlay for flexible
pipes and the installation of bed zone, haunch zone, side zone and pipe overlay
for rigid pipes shall be as in Figure 7.6.
(2) Where the drain to be backfilled is in stable sand, which is free from clay,
gravel, shells, or other inclusions, the excavated material may be used for side
support or overlay material.
(3) The final backfill material shall comply with the following:
(a) Excavated material may be used.

(b) Foreign material such as builder's waste, brick and concrete shall not be
used.
(c) The backfill shall be compacted to restore the trench as near as
practicable to the normal ground surface level.
7.8 INSPECTION CHAMBERS AND MANHOLES
7.8.1 General
(1) Every drain length should be accessible for maintenance, rodding and cleaning
through the provision of inspection chambers and manholes or otherwise.
(2) Inspection chambers and manholes should be provided at the head of each run
of drain, at changes in direction, gradient or pipe diameter and every 30.0m
straight run of drains.
(3) Inspection chambers and manholes should be resistant to water penetration, be

durable and designed to minimize the risk of blockage.
7.13
Figure 7.6: Bedding of drains
7.14
7.8.2 Dimensions
(1) The size of inspection chambers should be such that the drain can be cleaned
from the surface.
(2) The design of manholes should permit entry without restricting operational
space.
(3) Subject to the minima given in Table 7.2, internal dimensions for manholes with
a number of branches may be estimated for straight inverts as follows:
(a) Length: The length should be the sum of 100.0mm on each side of the
branch pipe, the diameter of the pipe on the side having most branches
for each pipe, plus an allowance at the downstream end for the angle of
entry.
(b) Width: The width should be the sum of the widths of the benching plus
150.0mm or the diameter of the main drain, whichever is greater. The
benching width should be 300.0mm where there are branches or
150.0mm where there is no branch. Where manholes or inspection
chambers with curved channels cannot be avoided, their dimensions
should be based on the foregoing principles.
7.8.3 Materials of Construction for Inspection Chambers and

Manholes
(1) Materials of construction for inspection chambers and manholes may include:
(a) brickwork, concrete block, stone masonry;
(b) concrete, in situ and precast; and
(c) plastics (uPVC, polypropylene and GRP).
(2) For blockwork (blockwork chambers):
(a) the wall thickness should be adequate to resist external pressures due to
soil and ground water, but in any case not less than 150.0mm.
(b) durability and resistance to water penetration should be achieved by

using bricks and concrete blocks complying with the relevant standards.
In addition, all mortar joints should be completely filled and flush pointed
as the work proceeds.
(c) the roofing concrete slab for brick inspection chambers and manhole
should be designed to carry the weight of any ground above plus all
probable superimposed loads.
(d) an inspection chamber or manhole should be built on a base of concrete

of minimum quality C-15 not less than 150.0mm thick.
(e) pipes of size DN300 or larger, when built into walls, should have either
one brick relieving arch turned over the pipe to the full thickness of the
brick work or a concrete lintel or other effective means of relieving the
load.
(f) the pipes in and out of manholes should be bedded on mortar and built in
as the brickwork proceeds.
7.15
(3) For inspection chambers and manholes constructed of in situ concrete, the
walls should be of adequate thickness to resist external pressures. Roofing
and base of inspection chambers and manholes are as in (2) above.
(4) (a) Inspection chambers and manholes of precast concrete shall be built in
sections.
(b) Materials, dimensions and test methods should comply with the relevant
standards.
(c) The base may be either of precast concrete or in situ concrete similar to
that described as in (2) above.
(d) Where manholes or inspection chambers are constructed wholly above

the water table, joints sealed with cement mortar can be satisfactory. In
waterlogged ground or where the water table is above the base, joints
should be made watertight, preferably using a non-rigid jointing material
such as a mastic sealant or a rubber ring joint.
(5) Plastics manholes, if employed either as integral bases or as complete

chamber units, should comply with the relevant Ethiopian Standards or
equivalent.
7.8.4 Channels and Benching
(1) An open channel of half-round section should extend the whole length of the
inspection chamber or manhole.
(2) A vertical benching should be formed from the top edge of the main channel to
a height not less than that of the soffit of the outlet. It should be rounded off to
a radius of about 25.0mm and then sloped upwards to meet the wall of the
chamber.
(3) (a) Side branches of diameters upto and including 150.0mm should
discharge to the main channel in the direction of flow.
(b) Vertical and side benchings should be shaped so as to contain the flow
without permitting fouling and to facilitate rodding of branch drains.
(c) A branch with a diameter of more than 150.0mm should be set with the
soffit level with that of the main drain.
(4) (a) In inspection chambers and manholes of brickwork, precast concrete or

in situ concrete, main and branch channels should be bedded and jointed
in 1:3 cement mortar.
(b) To ensure that the channel and the branch junctions are properly
supported, the bedding and the benching should be laid in a single
operation.
(5) Plastic channel sections are available and could be used in a similar manner to
traditional materials, but special care should be exercised to ensure adequate
bonding with the base.
7.8.5 Access to Manholes-step Irons
(1) For brick or in-situ concrete manholes, they should be built into the wall at
intervals of between 230.0mm and 300.0mm.
7.16
(2) (a) The step irons should preferably be set and staggered in two vertical runs
which should be constant at approximately 300.0mm centres horizontally.
(b) The top step iron should be positioned so that direct access to it by an
operator is practicable and should be fixed not more than 750.0mm
below the surface, depending on the cover and slab arrangement.
(c) The lowest step iron should be fixed not more than 300.0mm above the
benching. Precast concrete manholes should have step irons let in.
Table 7.2: Minimum dimensions for inspection chambers & manholes
minimum internal dimension

Types of access Depth to invert Rectangular Circular diameter
(m) length & width (mm)
(mm)
Inspection chamber 400x400 400
≤0.6
or manhole 600x600 600
≤1.0
≤1.75 1000x750 1000
≤2.5 1200x750 1200
>2.5 1400x900 1500
Manhole shaft* >2.5 900x800 900
*Minimum height of chamber in shafted manhole shall be 2.0m from crown of

pipe to underside of reducing slab.
7.8.6 Drop-pipe Manholes (See Figure 7.7)
(1) If the drop-pipe is outside the manhole, a continuation of the drain should be
built through the manhole wall to form a rodding eye.
(2) A drop-pipe fitted within the manhole should be able to withstand maintenance
operations and have rodding access.
7.8.7 Inspection Chamber and Manhole Covers and Slabs
(1) Covers and frames from ductile and grey cast iron, cast steel and precast
concrete for manholes and inspection chambers shall be in accordance with the
relevant standards approved by the Authority .
(2) Covers used for manholes within buildings should be airtight and mechanically
secured.
7.17
7.9 INTERCEPTORS, SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL UNITS
7.9.1 Interceptors
(1) (a) Interceptors shall be provided, where necessary, for the proper handling
of wastes- containing grease, oil, flammable wastes, sand and other
ingredients harmful to the building drainage system and the public sewer.
(b) Only wastes having a mixture of light and heavy solids or liquids and
solids having various specific gravities may be treated and then
separated in an interceptor.
(c) The size, type and location of each interceptor shall be approved by the
Authority.
(2) (a) A grease and oil interceptor (separator), when it is deemed necessary,
shall be installed in the drainage line leading from sinks, drains or other
appliances in the following establishments:
(i) Restaurants,
(ii) Hotel kitchens,
(iii) Cafeterias,
(iv) Clubs or others from which grease and oil can be introduced into
the drainage system.
7.18
Figure 7.7: Drop-pipe at manholes
7.19
(b) A grease and oil interceptor may not be required for kitchens of private
dwelling units.
(c) An oil interceptor shall be installed in the drainage line or section of the
line where oil or other flammable wastes can be introduced or admitted in
the drainage line by accident or otherwise. These include motor-vehicles
storage and servicing stations.
(3) Sand and heavy solids interceptors shall be so designed and located as to be
readily accessible for cleaning and shall have a water seal of not less than
150.0mm.
(4) Discharges from commercial laundries, bottling plants and slaughterhouses,

which include rags, buttons, broken glasses, feathers and other solids, should
be intercepted before being discharged into the drainage system.
(5) (a) Interceptors shall be so designed that they will not become air bound if
closed covers are used (otherwise their contents might be siphoned).
(b) Each interceptor shall be vented.
(6) Each interceptor shall be so installed as to provide ready accessibility to the

cover and means for servicing and maintaining the interceptor in working and
operating condition.
(7) (a) Interceptors shall be maintained in efficient operating condition by

periodic removal of accumulated grease, oil, sand, grit, solids, etc.
(b) A maintenance schedule shall be worked out to this effect alongside the
design proper.
7.9.2 Septic Tanks
(1) A septic tank installation shall be provided for both settlement of solids and
partial biological treatment of sewage.
(2) The design criteria shall assume that surface water and subsoil water be
excluded from entering septic tanks.
(3) Septic tanks should be watertight so that they permit neither ingress of
groundwater nor egress of sewage to the ground.
(4) Septic tanks could be constructed from bricks, stone masonry, in-situ concrete
and large precast concrete pipes.
(5) Septic tanks could also be prefabricated from steel and plastic materials.
(6) Brick and stone masonry work should normally be in cement mortar.
(7) Where construction in water-logged ground is unavoidable, provision should be

made for the prevention of tank flotation during construction, emptying and
maintenance.
(8) Calculation of the total capacity of septic tanks shall be made on the basis of
the number of persons to be served, water consumption and sludge production
per capita and the hydraulic detention time.
(9) The design of septic tanks shall be such that the discharge of solids in the tank
effluent is kept to a minimum.
7.20
(10) The following formula is recommended for general use where desludging is
carried out at a reasonable number of times per year, two years, etc.
V = T sed .p.q/103 +Ul .Tac .p/103 (7.1)

3
Where V is effective volume of tank, in m
T sed is hydraulic detention time, in day(s) (minimum, 1.0 day).
p is user population q is Water consumption per capita per day, in litres (see
table 43, section 4).
q is sludge production per capita per day, in litres (0.15l).
T ac is number of days between desludgings (minimum, 365.0 days).
(11) For rectangular tanks, at least two or three should be used in series either by
constructing two or three separate tanks or by dividing a single tank into two or
three by partitions (see Figure 7.8).
(12) (a) In all cases of (11) above, the compartments should be not less than
1200.0mm deep below the top water level.
(b) The first compartment should have a capacity of not less than two-thirds of
the total tank capacity with a length of not less than twice its width and
the subsequent compartments should have a combined capacity of not
less than one-thirds of the total capacity.
(c) In order to facilitate desludging operations, the floor of the first
compartment should have a fall of 1:4 towards the inlet end.
(13) Duplicate tanks, preferably with half calculated capacities could be provided in
parallel.
(14) The design of septic tank inlets and outlets shall be such that they facilitate
introduction of crude sewage and removal of the clarified liquid with the least
possible disturbance of the settled sludge or the surface scum.
(a) An inlet for rectangular tanks of not more than 1200.0mm wide should be
a T-shaped dip pipe not less than the nominal bore of the incoming drain,
fixed inside the tank, with the top limb rising above the scum level and
the bottom limb extending about 450.0mm below the top water level.
(b) For tanks in excess of 1200.0mm in width, two submerged inlets having
inverts at the same level should be introduced (see Figure 7.8).
(c) A baffle should be provided 150.0mm from the inlet end of the tank,
extending 150.0mm below the invert of the inlet pipe and 150.0mm above
the top water level.
(d) Where the incoming drain has a steep gradient, at least the last 12.0m
should be laid at a gradient not steeper than 1:50 in order to minimize
turbulence.
(15) (a) The final outlet for tanks which are less than 1200.0mm wide should be
by a 100.0mm nominal bore dip pipe fixed inside the tank in a similar
manner to the inlet dip pipe in 14(a) above and 25.0mm below it.
(b) For wider tanks, it is necessary to use a weir outlet extending the full
width of the tank and protected by a scum board such as suitable
protected timber, plastics or asbestos cement fixed 150.0mm from the
weir and extending 150.0mm above and 450.0mm below the top water
level.
7.21
(16) (a) A roof should be provided to a septic tank, in which case it may be wholly
or partially removable and be of concrete or timber.
(b) If fixed, the roof should have adequate access openings, with covers,
including those necessary for inspection and cleansing of the inlet and
outlet arrangements.
(17) Where it is not roofed, a septic tank should be provided with a protective fence
to prevent unauthorized access.
(18) (a) Septic tanks should be located as far away as practicable from buildings,
water wells and water reservoirs (underground ) to prevent contamination
of domestic water supply and reduce the risk of nuisance in case of
malfunctioning; i.e., overflow through manholes, gas emission through
vent pipes, etc.
(b) In locating septic tanks, convenience for dislodging be considered.
Figure 7.8: Typical septic tank-two compartments
7.22
7.9.3 Cesspools
(1) Where an appropriate sewer is not available and sewage treatment is

impracticable, cesspools could be provided.
(2) Cesspools should be and remain impervious to ingress of ground or surface

water and to leakage.
(3) Cesspools should be provided only where emptying facilities are available or
are possible to introduce.
(4) Cesspools should be limited to serve only single houses.
(5) A capacity of not less than 45 days storage should be allowed.
(6) Effective storage time shall depend on the population served, the water
consumption and whether there is any infiltration into the foul drains.
(7) (a) A cesspool shall be cylindrical, square or rectangular in plan to suit the
conditions of the site.
(b) The depth from the cover of the access opening to the floor of the tank
should not normally exceed 4.0m on a flat site and may need to be
further restricted on a sloping site to limit the suction lift when emptying.
(8) The inlet drain should be provided with access appropriate for the drainage
system and should terminate with the pipe projection about 75.0mm clear of the
inside of the wall of the cesspool.
(9) Cesspools shall be properly ventilated.
(10) (a) The access to cesspools should not be less than 600.0mm clear opening
to enable inspection, maintenance or removal of consolidated sludge.
(b) The chamber should be made as safe a place of work as possible and
safe methods of working should be adopted.
(11) (a) The site selected for a cesspool should not be so near to any inhabited
building as to be liable to become a source of nuisance or a danger to
health (a minimum of 15.0m is desirable) and it is essential that no well,
stream, river, spring or aquifer likely to be used for drinking or domestic
purposes is liable to be polluted.
(b) The site of the cesspool should preferably be on ground sloping away
from and sited lower than any existing building in the immediate vicinity.
(c) The prevailing wind direction should be from the buildings served towards
the cesspool.
(d) Adequate means of vehicular access should be provided to the cesspool

where emptying by tankers is envisaged.
(12) (a) When a cesspool is to be abandoned, it shall be left in a condition that is

neither dangerous nor prejudicial to health.
(c) This shall be effected by the removal of the remaining contents and
backfilling of the chamber with hardcore or similar stable, non-
compressible material, demolition of the structure within 500.0mm of
ground level, and re-instatement of the ground surface.
7.23
7.9.4 Effluent Disposal
(1) Soakaway pit
(a) A soakaway pit shall be used for discharging effluent into pervious
subsoils such as gravel, sand, chalk, etc. at a level above that of the
water table.
(b) The pit shall be covered by a slab incorporating an inspection manhole

and cover.
(2) Percolation ditch
(a) In less porous subsoils, a subsurface irrigation system (percolation

ditches) shall be used as a more suitable alternative.
(b) (i) Percolation ditches should be very carefully designed and should
consist of a system of field drains which should be constructed
using porous or perforated pipes, laid in trenches, with a uniform
gradient which should be not steeper than 1:200.
(ii) The pipes should be laid on a 150.0mm layer of clean gravel or
broken stone 20.0mm to 50.0mm grade and the trenches filled to a
level 50.0mm above the pipe and covered with strips of plastics
material or equivalent laid to prevent the entry of silt.
(iii) The remainder of the trench should be filled with normal soil and
pipes laid at a minimum depth of 500.0mm below the surface.
(c) If the level of water table rises to within 1.0m of the proposed invert of the
irrigation system, it is not normally advisable to use subsurface irrigation.
(3) Area of subsurface drainage
(a) The floor area of a subsurface drainage trench or infiltration area of a

2
soakaway pit, At in m , required to disperse effluents from septic tanks
shall be calculated from:
At = PVp0.25 (7.2)
Where
P = is the number of persons served by the tank

Vp= is the percolation value
(b) For effluents which have received secondary treatment followed by

settlement, the area calculation in (7.2) above should be reduced by 20%
i.e:
At = PVp0.2 (7.3)
(c) The area determined should be used to calculate either a length of

subsurface drainage or, alternatively, the infiltration area of one or more
shallow soakaways.
(d) (i) Drainage trenches should be from 300.0mm to 900.0mm wide.

(ii) Areas of undisturbed ground 2.0m wide should be maintained
between parallel trenches.
7.24
(4) Underdrains
(a) Where underdrains are necessary, drainage trenches should be

constructed not less than 600.0mm deeper than the above trenches and
the lower part filled with fine gravel (see Figure 7.9).
(b) A second system of drainage pipes should be laid on the bottom of the
trenches to convey surplus drainage to an outfall in a surface ditch or
water course.
7.10 INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE OF DRAINAGE

WORKS
7.10.1 Inspection and Testing of Drainage Works
(1) Drainage works should be inspected and tested in two stages:
(a) as the work proceeds, and

(b) immediately before the work is handed over upon completion.
(2) The work should be protected during all stages of construction and the entry of
foreign matter into any part of the system prevented.
(3) Testing sequence shall constitute the following:
(a) First stage testing
(i) Tests should be carried out to locate and remedy any defects in
soundness that may exist at the time of construction.
(ii) Such test should take place immediately before the work is covered
up so as to facilitate replacement of any faulty pipes or pipe fittings
or to rectify any joint defect.
(iii) Inspection of the pipeline shall reveal any defects in the support
and bedding.
(b) Final testing
Testing and inspection should take place immediately before handover

when all relevant work has been completed.
(4) Pre-test procedures are as follows:
(a) Before any tests are applied, attention should be given to the safety of
the operatives and other persons involved in the testing operation.
(b) It is essential that proper means of access should be provided to the area
of work and the sides of any trench or excavation in which work is to be
tested be adequately supported and free from hazards.
7.25
Figure 7.9: Cross-section of typical underdrain
(c) All obstruction, debris and superfluous matter should be removed from
sections of pipeline, inspection chambers, manholes, or similar
underground chambers and they should be flushed out before testing.
(d) Before any tests are applied, a disc or ball-type profile testing device
should be passed through all drains and private sewers between
inspection chambers, manholes or other suitable points of access and
through all accessible branch drains.
(5) Soundness tests for gravity drains constitute the following:
(a) Water test :- Drains shall be tested as follows:
(i) A water test shall be applied to every drain and to any section of an
existing drain that has been repaired or replaced.
(ii) The head of water shall be at least 1.0m at the high end of the
drainline and not more than 4.0m at the lower end.
(iii) The test shall be applied by:
Sealing all openings except the top of the section of the drain to be
tested; filling the drain with water to the highest level in that
section; and maintaining the water at this level for a period of
2.0hrs, topping up as necessary.
(iv) The test is considered to be successful if the quantity of make-up

water (rate of water loss) measured after 2.0hrs does not exceed
7.26
1.0l/h per meter diameter per linear meter run of pipe. For various
pipe diameters, this rate of loss over a 30.0min period may be
expressed as follows:
DN100 pipe - 0.05 litres per meter run

DN150 " - 0.08 " "
DN225 " - 0.12 " "
DN300 " - 0.15 " "
(b) Interpretation of results: A change in water level in the test apparatus

could be due to one or more of the following causes, which shall be
rectified or appropriate allowances made for in the testing procedure:
(i) Absorption by pipes or joints.

(ii) Exposure of pipes in direct sunlight, or changes of ambient
temperature when pipes are laid.
(iii) Trapped air;
(iv) Leakage past expanding plugs or bag stoppers.
(c) Air test: An air test may be applied to the completed work, either in its
entirety or in sections, in accordance with the following procedure:
(i) The air pressure test shall consist of applying a pressure of 3.0m
water head to the drain and holding this pressure for 3.0min to
allow the air temperature to stabilize.
(ii) The air supply shall then be shut off and the time taken for the
pressure in the pipe to drop from 2.5m to 2.0m head of water shall
be measured.
(iii) The drain is considered to have passed the test if the time taken is
greater than 90.0s for pipes of size DN225 or smaller, or 180.0s for
pipes of sizes DN300 and DN375.
(5) Soundness tests for ancillary works
(a) The design and construction of ancillary work such as inspection

chambers, manholes, oil and grease separators, sumps, septic tanks,
cesspools and similar underground structures should ensure a high level
of resistance to water penetration, both inwards and outwards.
(b) Where construction work has been effectively carried out, visual
inspection may be sufficient for acceptance without testing.
(c) Inspection should always be made to reveal any possible weaknesses in

the structure and particular attention should be paid to the following:
(i) Step-iron and ladder housings.

(ii) Benching.
(iii) Pipes entering or leaving the structure.
(iv) Joints in brickwork or blockwork.
(v) Joints between sections of the structure.
(d) Water test
(i) All outlets, inlets and other connection points of the chambers or
structures should be fitted with plugs and filled with clean water up
to the underside of the covers.
7.27
(ii) The water is allowed to stand for up to 8.0hrs for absorption,

topping up the level as necessary.
(iii) The criterion for acceptance (at this stage) should be that no
appreciable flow of water penetrate the structures.
(iv) Where water can be observed issuing from the outside face of the
structures at an identifiable point or points, such leakage should be
stopped.
(v) The external faces of a structure should not normally be backfilled
or concrete- surrounded before the test.
7.10.2 Maintenance and Periodic Inspection
(1) Drainage systems should be inspected at regular intervals and, where

necessary, thoroughly cleaned out at the same time. Any defects discovered
should be made good.
(2) The following operations should be carried out during the periodic cleaning of a
drainage system:
(a) Covers of inspection chambers and manholes should be removed and

the sides, benchings and channels cleaned.
(b) Main and branch drains should be cleaned and, afterwards, should be
flushed with clean water. Any obstructions found should be removed and
not flushed into system.
(c) Accumulated deposits in interceptors should be removed periodically.
(d) Covers of inspection chambers, manholes and interceptors should be

replaced, bedded in suitable grease or other sealing material and/or
bolted down as appropriate to the type. Missing bolts and broken items
should be renewed.
(3) The drainage system should be cleaned, as appropriate, using one or more of
the following methods:
(a) Rodding:
(i) Appropriate cleaning tools and techniques should be chosen to

avoid damage to the pipework to be cleaned.
(ii) It is important that correctly designed proprietary ends be used on
the rods.
(iii) Makeshift devices attached to the ends of rods should be avoided
as they are not as effective as the correctly designed article and
could become detached and create a blockage which would be
difficult to remove. Furthermore, it is possible that such devices
could cause damage to the pipeline.
(b) High pressure jetting techniques could be suitable for use with all
currently available pipe materials and should also be considered.
(c) Shock waves could be induced and transmitted by water to the point of
blockage, where the pipe is surcharged or can be filled with water from
the blockage to a point where the shock wave is introduced.
7.28
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 8: STORM WATER DRAINAGE ........................................................... 8.1

8.1 SCOPE .............................................................................................................. 8.1
8.2 MATERIALS ...................................................................................................... 8.1
8.2.1 Selection and Use ................................................................................ 8.1
8.2.2 Standards to be Complied With ............................................................ 8.1
8.3 JOINTS .............................................................................................................. 8.1
8.4 DESIGN ............................................................................................................. 8.1
8.4.1 General ................................................................................................. 8.1
8.4.2 Run-off .................................................................................................. 8.2
8.4.3 Roof Drainage ...................................................................................... 8.5
8.4.4 Surface Water Drainage ...................................................................... 8.16
8.5 INSTALLATION ............................................................................................... 8.18
8.5.1 Gutters ................................................................................................ 8.18
8.5.2 Downpipes .......................................................................................... 8.18
8.5.3 Storm Water Drains ............................................................................ 8.18
8.5.4 Storm Water Pits and Inlet Pits .......................................................... 8.19
8.5.5 Inlets ................................................................................................... 8.19
8.6 INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE ............................................. 8.19
8.6.1 Inspection ........................................................................................... 8.19
8.6.2 Testing ................................................................................................ 8.19
8.6.3 Maintenance ....................................................................................... 8.19
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 8.1: Calculation of effective catchment area, Ae, for roofs ............................. 8.4
Figure 8.2 Calculation of effective catchment area, Ae, for vertical surfaces .......... 8.5
Figure 8.3: Division of flow between gutter outlets ................................................... 8.7
Figure 8.4 Cross-section trapezoidal gutter ............................................................. 8.9
Figure 8.5: Design chart for freely-discharging trapezoidal gutters ........................ 8.10
Figure 8.6: Dimensions of typical box-receivers ..................................................... 8.11
Figure 8.7: Types of gutter outlets .......................................................................... 8.13
Figure 8.8: Drainage from flat roofs: types of outlet ................................................ 8.15
LIST OF TABLES
Table 8.1 : Run-off coefficient for unpaved areas ..................................................... 8.5
i
SECTION 8
STORM WATER DRAINAGE
8.1 SCOPE
(1) This section deals with the drainage of surface water from roofs, walls, paved
and unpaved areas and recommends methods of designing gutters and gutter
outlets for roofs and storm water drains, channels, storm water inlets, etc. for
paved areas.
8.2 MATERIALS
8.2.1 Selection and Use
(1) The materials to be used shall be selected to ensure satisfactory service for the
life of the installation.
(2) Factors to be taken into consideration for compliance with (1) above shall
include:
(a) cost,
(b) the nature of the ground and the possibility of chemical attack there from,
(c) the physical and chemical characteristics of the materials, and
(d) the possibility of abrasion by solids in the flow, or of chemical attack of

the materials.
8.2.2 Standards to be Complied With
(1) Materials and components for storm water drainage should comply with the
relevant standard approved by the Authority.
8.3 JOINTS
(1) Gutters and downpipes should be jointed in accordance with good engineering
practice.
(2) Manufacturers' instructions on the methods of jointing should be strictly

followed where available.
8.4 DESIGN
8.4.1 General
(1) When designing drainage systems for roofs, paved and unpaved areas, it is
normally impracticable to guard against very infrequent, extremely heavy
rainfall events. The designer should aim to achieve a balance between the cost
of the rain water run-off system and the consequences of flooding.
8.1
8.4.2 Run-off
(1) Effective catchment areas
(a) The effective catchment area of a sloping or vertical surface depends

upon the angle of descent of the rain. For purposes of design it may
normally be assumed that the rain falls at angle of one unit horizontal
to two units vertical, and that its direction is such as to produce the
maximum rate of run-off to each length of gutter; this is the basis of the
recommendations described in (b) to (d) below.
(b) (i) The effective catchment area, Ae, for flat roofs of a freely
exposed horizontal surface is equal to the plan area of the
surface (see Figure 8.1(a)).
(ii) Where slopping or vertical surface drains to a flat roof, paved or
unpaved area, the additional area of catchment should be
calculated as described in (c) and (d) below.
(c) (i) The effective catchment area, Ae, for slopping roofs of a freely
exposed surface draining to an eaves or a parapet wall gutter is
equal to the plan area of the roof plus half its maximum area in
elevation (see Figure 8.1(b). For a valley gutter, one side of the
roof will tend to be exposed to the wind and the other side will
tend to be sheltered; the method of calculating the effective
catchment area is illustrated in Figure 8.1(c). Run-off from any
vertical walls should be allowed for (see (d) below).
(ii) The effect of wind can be appreciated by noting that, compared
to a horizontal roof of the same plan width, the run-off will be
25% greater if the roof has a slope of one unit vertical to two
units horizontal, and 50% greater if it has a slope of one unit
vertical to one unit horizontal.
(d) (i) Wind-driven rain will cause run-off from walls and other vertical
surfaces that are freely exposed to the wind, but where the run-
off is to a paved area, run-off from vertical surfaces will normally
need to be considered only where flooding of the paved area
cannot be tolerated.
(ii) For a single wall, the effective catchment area, Ae, should be
taken as half the exposed vertical area of the wall. Where two or
more walls form an angle of bay, the direction of the wind should
be assumed to be such that the walls, considered together,
present the maximum vertical area to the rain. The method of
calculating Ae is illustrated in Figure 8.2. For an enclosed area,
the value of Ae will be equal to the horizontal plan area unless the
surrounding walls are of unequal height. In the latter case the
value of Ae should be increased by half the area in elevation by
which the higher wall exceeds the lower wall.
(2) Rate of Run-off
(a) Run-off from roofs, paved areas; roofs, and vertical surfaces should be
calculated assuming that the surfaces are impermeable; that is, run-off
coefficient value C is taken to be 1.0. Run-off coefficient values (C) for
unpaved areas should be taken from good practices conforming to local
conditions. C values for some unpaved areas is given in Table 8.1.
8.2
(3) The rate of run-off Q (in l/s) is given by the equation;
CAe I
Q= (8.1)
3600
where,
2
Ae is the effective catchment area (in m ),
I is the rainfall intensity (in mm/h) for the minimum average recurrence interval in
years and time of concentration. Where such information is not available, a rainfall
intensity satisfactory to the Authority can be taken.
8.3
Figure 8.1: Calculation of effective catchment area, Ae, for roofs
8.4
Figure 8.2 Calculation of effective catchment area, Ae, for vertical

surfaces
Table 8.1 : Run-off coefficient for unpaved areas
Type of surface Run-off

coefficient (c)
(a) Parks, lawns, gardens, etc. 0.10 to 0.25
(b) Unpaved streets, open grounds, etc. 0.10 to 0.30
(c) Forest and wooded areas depending on the
ground surface and soil characteristics
0.10 to 0.25
8.4.3 Roof Drainage
(1) General principles
(a) A roof drainage system generally comprises the following three parts:
(i) The gutter or channel that collects the flow from the roof;
(ii) The outlet into which the flow from the gutter or channel
discharges; and
8.5
(iii) The pipework (downpipe) that conveys the flow from the outlet to
the drainage system.
(b) The three parts of the drainage system in (a) above can be designed
separately if the outlet and the pipework (downpipe) are made large
enough for the flow to discharge freely from the gutter; this is the basis of
the method of design described in 2 to5 below. Occasionally, it is
necessary to use outlets or pipework that are smaller than those required
by this method. When this occurs, the capacity of the gutter is less than
the capacity that it has when it discharges freely; consequently another
method of design becomes necessary (see 2 below).
(c) Gutters and downpipes may be omitted from a roof at any height provided
2
that it has an area of 6.0m or less and provided that no roof or other
surface drains onto it. Consideration may be given to the omission of
gutters and downpipes from tall structures where run-off would be
dispersed before reaching the ground; such run-off should be directed so
as to avoid undesirable pattern, staining and splashing of windows.
(2) Method of design
(a) The method of design described subsequently (another method of design

satisfactory to the Building Official may also be used) is based on the
following assumptions:
(i) The gutter slope is not steeper than 1 in 350 (i.e, it is normally
level). A gutter laid to fall will have a somewhat higher capacity,
but this increase should be viewed as an additional factor of safety.
(ii) The gutter has a uniform cross-sectional shape.
(iii) The outlets are large enough to allow the gutter to discharge freely.
(iv) The distance between a stop-end and an outlet is less than 50
times the upstream water depth, or the distance between two
outlets is less than 100 times the upstream water depth.
(b) Eaves gutters should, wherever possible, be designed to discharge

freely. If the length of an eaves gutter exceeds the limits given in (1(d))
above, it is necessary to reduce its design capacity.
(3) Calculation of flow in gutters
(a) (i) After the run-off from the roof of a building has been calculated, its
direction of flow in the gutter is determined by the position of the
outlets. If a length is served by two outlets, the flow will split
equally between them even if the flow does not enter the gutter
uniformly along its length.
(ii) Figure 8.3(a) shows how the flow at each outlet in a length of gutter
can be calculated. If a strong wind blows along a gutter, the flow
may be increased in that direction.
(iii) Figure 8.3(b) and 8.3(c) show how the capacity of a gutter can be
used most efficiently. In figure 8.3(b), the outlets split the gutter
into three sections, of which the middle one collects half the total
flow and discharges at both ends; if the total flow from the roof is
Q, then each section of the gutter needs to have a discharge
capacity of Q/4.
(iv) Figure 8.3(c) shows a less efficient arrangement in which the
outlets are positioned at the ends of the gutter; in this case, a
larger gutter is required since each section needs to have a
discharge capacity of Q/2.
8.6
(b) (i) Although there is an optimum arrangement for the outlets (see 3(a)
above), their number and position will often be determined by the
layout of the building or other architectural factors.
(ii) If for any reason internal downpipes are fitted, underfloor drainage
should be avoided where possible.
(iii) Outlets for gutters should be located, where possible, near to each
angle; i.e, where there is a change in direction of flow.
Figure 8.3: Division of flow between gutter outlets
8.7
(4) Eave, valley, parapet and boundary-wall gutters.
(a) The shape of valley gutters may often be chosen so as to conform to the
cross-sectional shape of the roof. A satisfactory shape of valley gutter is
obtained if the sides are slopped at the same slope as the roof up to a
height that gives the required flow capacity, and if the sides are then
turned vertically upward in order to provide the required amount of free-
board.
(b) The fall (slope) to which the gutter is laid will depend on structural
considerations and on the material used for the gutter or gutter lining.
The method of design described in (d) below assumes that the gutter is
level; a gutter laid to fall will have a somewhat higher capacity; but this
increase should be viewed as an additional factor of safety.
(c) (i) The overall depth of a gutter should be greater than the depth
needed to give the design capacity so as to prevent it from being
over-topped by splashing or by waves produced by strong winds.
(ii) The amount of free-board should be taken as two-fifth of the
maximum depth of flow in the gutter, with an upper limit of 75.0mm.
(d) (i) In a level gutter, the depth of flow is greatest at the upstream end and
decrease towards the outlet. Subtracting the allowable free-board from
the overall depth of the gutter, therefore, gives the design depth of flow
at the upstream end Yu; the discharge that produces the depth Yu is the
design capacity of the gutter. A level gutter attains its maximum capacity
when the outlet is large enough to allow the gutter to discharge freely.
When this occurs, the depth of the flow in the gutter just upstream of the
outlet is equal to the critical depth Yc.
(ii) The ratio of the depth of flow at the upstream end of the gutter, Yu, to the
critical depth at the downstream end, Yc, depends only upon the cross-
sectional shape of the gutter provided that the requirement of 2 above
are met. The effect of flow resistance is normally small so that the depth
of the gutter does not affect the value of Yu/Yc unless the gutter is longer
than the limit given in 2(a)(iv). Yc can be read from figure 8.5 once the
upstream flow width, Bu, and the sole width, Bs (see figure 8.4) of the
gutter are determined. The discharge capacity, Q, corresponding to the
critical depth, Yc, can be calculated if the cross-sectional shape of the
gutter is known. The calculated value of Q assumes that the outlet is
large enough to allow the gutter to discharge freely.
(iii) Rectangular and triangular gutters may be considered as special types
of trapezoidal gutters and can, therefore, be designed in the same way
as trapezoidal gutters.
(5) Gutter outlets
(a) (i) Factors affecting the number and position of required outlets are
detailed in 3 above. Two types of gutter outlets may be used. The
outlet pipe may either be connected directly to the sole of the gutter, or
may be connected to a box-receiver into which the flow from the gutter
first discharges.
(ii) Box-receivers are preferable to outlets in the sole of the gutter because
they ensure that the flow discharges freely from the gutter and may
allow smaller outlets to be used. The use of box-receivers is
recommended for valley, parapet and boundary wall gutters designed
according to the method of design described in 2 and 4 above.
8.8
(iii) The design of structural framework should take account of any internal
box receivers (see Figure 8.6 (b)) or outlets in the sole of the gutter.
Figure 8.4 Cross-section trapezoidal gutter
(b) (i) The dimensions of a box receiver need to be large enough to allow
the flow to discharge freely from the gutter to which it is connected.
Typical designs for box-receivers are shown in Figure 8.6.
(ii) The minimum width of the box should not be less than the width of the
flow in the gutter at a depth equal to half the overall depth of the
gutter, Yg. If the flow enters the box-receiver from one direction (see
Figure 8.6(a)), the length of the box in the direction of flow should be
not less than 0.75 Yg. If the flow enters the box-receiver from
opposite directions (see Figure 8.6(b)); in the later case, the length of
the box should be not less than 1.5 Yg . The top of the box should be
level with the top of the gutter except where the box is external to the
building (see Figure 8.6(a)); in the latter case, the outer edge of the
box may be lowered to act as an emergency overflow.
8.9
Figure 8.5: Design chart for freely-discharging trapezoidal gutters
8.10
Figure 8.6: Dimensions of typical box-receivers
8.11
(iii) The depth of the box below the sole of the gutter should not be less
than h+25.0mm, where h is the depth of the water above the outlet.
(iv) If it is necessary to make the dimensions of a box-receiver smaller
than those recommended above, the gutter may be prevented from
discharging freely.
(c) (i) At small depths of flow, the perimeter of an outlet (outlet in box-
receiver) to a downpipe acts as a weir while at large depths of flow
the outlet acts as an orifice. An outlet with a rounded edge has a
larger capacity than a sharp-edged outlet (see Figure 8.7(a))
having the same size of throat. A suitable type of round-edged
circular outlet is shown in Figure 8.7(b); in terms of its discharge
capacity, this type of outlet has an effective diameter, D, equal to
0.99 times its top diameter, Do.
(ii) Suitable type of tapered outlets allow smaller size of downpipes to
be used without reducing the capacity of the outlet. A tapered
outlet with a top diameter D0 will have the same discharge capacity
as a sharp-edged outlet of diameter D0 provided that the diameter
of the throat is not less than _D0 and the transition is gradual over a
distance not less than D0 (see Figure 8.7(c)). The use of a grating
over an outlet will reduce its capacity.
(d) If a downpipe is connected directly to the sole of a valley, parapet or

boundary wall gutter, it is necessary to determine whether the outlet
(downpipe) is large enough to allow the flow to discharge freely from the
gutter. As a rough guide, the effective diameter of an outlet in a
rectangular gutter needs to be at least three-quarters of the width of the
flow to ensure free discharge. Outlets connected to the sides of gutters
are inefficient and their use is not recommended.
(6) Downpipes
(a) (i) The size of circular downpipes (outlets) shall not be less than
diameter 60.0mm and that of spouts not less than diameter
50.0mm.
(ii) The length of the shorter side of rectangular downpipes (outlets)
shall not be less than 60.0mm.
8.12
Figure 8.7: Types of gutter outlets
(b) Tapered outlets (vertical pipes) for valley and parapet wall gutters may be
used to reduce the size of the down pipe to not less than two-thirds of the
top diameter of the outlets (see 8.7(c)). Pipes sized according to these
criteria will tend to flow full so that joints between the downpipes and the
gutter or box receivers should be sealed.
(c) (i) Horizontal lengths of pipe should, where possible, be given a small
fall to prevent the ponding of water.
(ii) Long runs of pipework should be designed according to the
standard engineering principles for steady flow in pipes.
(iii) All joints on horizontal pipes should be sealed, and access for
inspection and rodding should be provided in accordance with
8.5.2(2).
8.13
(7) Flat roofs
(a) (i) Flat roofs shall be designed to avoid ponding;

(ii) Manufacturers of roof water-proofing materials shall give
recommendations on the minimum falls that should be provided
and allowable pondings (allowable depth of water) on roofs during
rain storms.
(b) (i) Flat roofs may be drained in two ways:
• Towards the outer edges of the roof.

• Towards channels or outlets within the perimeter of the roof.
(ii) Falls are required in both cases of (a)above , and can be provided
by the construction of the roof or by screeding.
(iii) In general, an economic scheme will include few outlets; but the
number needed may often be determined by the plan of the roof
rather than by the area to be drained.
(c) On a roof laid to falls, a water depth of upto 30mm may be acceptable if it
is confined to a relatively small area around the outlets or to a value
which may be allowed by manufacturers' of water-proofing materials (see
7(a)), which ever is smaller.
(d) (i) Run-off from a flat roof may be discharged at the edge of the roof
into;
• an eaves gutter (see Figure 8.8(a));

• a chute connected to a hopper head (see Figure 8.8(b)).
(ii) The eaves gutters and their outlets should be designed in the same
way as in 4 and 5 above.
(e) (i) Run-off from a flat roof may be discharged within the perimeter of
the foot into:
• a channel formed within or by the roof (see Figure 8.8(d) );

• a sump containing an outlet;
• an outlet draining the roof directly (see Figure 8.8(c) ).
(ii) Roof channels and their outlets should be designed in the same
way as in (d) above.
(iii) Sumps and roof outlets normally act as weirs, and should be sized
so as to limit the depth given in (c) above. The depth of a sump is
determined by the capacity of the outlet that drains it, and should
be not less than h + 25mm where h is the depth of water above the
outlets.
(f) The procedure given in (i) to (v) hereunder in this paragraph may be used
for determining the required dimensions of a sump:
(i) Locate the position of the sump and calculate the rate of run-off
from the catchment areas that it drains. Where possible, the sump
should be positioned centrally.
(ii) Calculate the total rate of run-off Q (in l/s) assuming that the roof is
impermeable.
8.14
(iii) Calculate the length of the wetted perimeter of the sump, Lw, using
the appropriate equation in E.4.1 after selecting the design depth of
water on the roof (see 7(a) above). The shape of the sump should
be such that the length of each side is approximately proportional
to the flow that it receives.
Figure 8.8: Drainage from flat roofs: types of outlet
(iv) Select a suitable outlet to drain the sump.

(v) Calculate the head h required to pass the total discharge, Q,
through the outlet.
(vi) The depth of the sump above the level of the outlet should be a
minimum of h + 25mm.
(vii) The downpipe connected to the outlet should be designed in
accordance with the provisions of (6) above.
(g) (i) Ungrated roof outlets shall be designed using the appropriate
equations.
(ii) The capacities of grated outlets are best determined
experimentally;
8.15
8.4.4 Surface Water Drainage
(1) Drainage of unpaved areas
(a) Appurtenances for the drainage of unpaved areas include unlined or lined
channels, storm water drains, etc.
(b) Run-off from unpaved areas that can pollute or block the drainage
system, such as run-off from open grounds or unimproved areas, should
be prevented from draining onto paved areas unless appropriate
measure is taken to protect the drainage system from blockage.
(c) Design flow rates from unpaved areas should be calculated as described
in 8.4.2 (2).
(d) The design of drainage appurtenances for unpaved areas should be

made in accordance with good engineering practice.
(2) Drainage of paved areas
(a) (i) A drainage system for a paved area generally includes:
• a paved channel or series of paved channels that collect the

run-off from the paved area,
• inlets or gullies (kerb-inlets or grated inlets situated at
intermediate points along the channels,
• terminal inlets or terminal gullies set at low points in the paved
area or the collecting channel,
• inlet pits conveniently positioned,
• storm water drains,
• storm water pits (storm water manhole) conveniently
positioned.
(b) (i) The irregular shape of the areas between buildings will often
determine the number of inlets that are required rather than the
permissible area that can be drained to an inlet. Small paved
areas may be drained to central terminal inlets. Larger areas can
be split into panels with central terminal inlets, or may more
conveniently be drained by collecting channels with intermediate
and terminal inlets.
(ii) The levels of a paved area should be determined in relation to the

levels of the following features:
• The existing ground.

• The available outfall.
• The floors and damp-proof courses in adjoining buildings.
• The access points to the paved area.
(iii) Water draining from a paved area should not be allowed to

concentrate along the side of the building.
(iv) Where the general ground levels might cause concentration of
drained water in (iii) above, a reverse fall should be applied to a
narrow strip around the building so that the water is kept away from
the walls.
8.16
(v) If a paved area provides access to workshops, underground

garages or storage accommodation that are at or below the level of
the paved area, channels with gratings or slots should be used and
these should be placed at a minimum of 500.0mm away from the
building to intercept any water that would otherwise drain into the
building.
(vi) The drainage system for road entrances and approaches of public
roads should be arranged so as to prevent surface water flowing
across the entrance, either to or from a public road.
(vii) Gradients of paved areas should be designed to permit quick
drainage to collecting channels or inlets.
(c) (i) The general layout of the stormwater drainage system should first
be decided and the total area then split into suitable sub-areas.
The design flow from each sub-area is then calculated as
described in 8.4.2 (2).
(ii) Collecting channels of shallow triangular cross-section have the
same longitudinal slopes and cross falls as the paved surfaces that
they drain. Channels with other cross-sectional shapes may,
however, be used. The discharge capacity of a particular channel
will normally be limited by the maximum depth of width of flow that
it is convenient to allow. Where pedestrians need to cross
collecting channels, the width of the flow should not exceed
500.0mm.
(d) (i) Intermediate inlets (kerb inlets or grated inlets (gully-gratings)) are
generally used where:
• a single terminal inlet at the downstream end of collecting

channel would produce too great a depth of ponding,
• the depth or width of flow in the collecting channel would exceed
certain chosen limits.
(ii) Kerb-inlets generally have a lower capacity than grated inlets of the
same length, but are less liable to damage by vehicles. The design
of intermediate inlets is given in appendix F.
(iii) Terminal inlets (terminal gullies) are situated at low points in the
paved area or collecting channel. The capacity of a terminal inlet is
normally determined by the depth and area of ponded water that
can be permitted at the low point. Such inlets should be
generously sized as they are more likely to cause flooding than
intermediate inlets.
(e) Strom water drains;
(i) shall be sized in accordance with the relevant provisions in Section

7,
(ii) shall have a minimum size of 150.00mm diameter.
(f) Sand traps:
(i) shall be provided to remove contamination, generally sand or silt,

from stormwater prior to discharge to the storm water drainage
system.
(b) shall be adequately sized depending on the use of the area, the
type of surface and the frequency of cleaning. However, a
8.17
minimum depth of 500.0mm below the invert of the outlet storm

water drain shall be provided.
8.5 INSTALLATION
8.5.1 Gutters
(1) Eaves gutters, especially when fixed on rafter brackets, shall be given a fall to
allow for any settlement and recommended rate of fall is 1 in 350.
(2) Gutters shall be adequately supported so as to prevent sagging and ponding,

and care shall be taken that there is no sideways tilt.
8.5.2 Downpipes
(1) (a) Downpipes may be fixed by holderbats, etc, screwed or built-in.
(b) All holderbats should be adequately protected against corrosion.

(c) Downpipes that require painting should be fixed at least 30.0mm clear of
the building structure using spacers or projecting ears.
(d) Materials for fixings should be selected to avoid electrolytic action.
(2) One or more cleaning eyes (cleanouts) for access and rodding should be
provided at appropriate points in horizontal runs of pipe and on long vertical
pipes. This is particularly important at the foot of each downpipe and at
changes in direction.
(3) It is essential that downpipes are not encased in concrete columns or structural
walls and it is important that downpipes in casings or ducts are accessible for
maintenance and replacement.
(4) (a) Where there is no alternative to a downpipe discharging on to a lower

roof or paved area, a rainwater shoe should be fitted.
(b) Where downpipes discharge on to a lower roof, especially onto a flat roof,
it is advisable to reinforce the covering of the flat roof at the point where
the rainwater shoe discharges onto it because of the excessive localized
wear that can occur under such conditions.
8.5.3 Storm Water Drains
(1) Storm water drains shall be laid in accordance with Section 7.
(2) Electrical cables, gas pipes, foul drains, water services, etc, installed in
proximity to storm water drains shall comply with the provisions of Section 7.
(3) (a) Storm water drains shall be installed in a manner that provides protection
against mechanical damage and deformation.
(b) The depth of cover shall be as specified in Section 7.
(4) The provisions for excavation, bedding and backfilling shall be as in Section 7.
(5) (a) Storm drains shall be joined to each other by means of:
8.18
(i) an oblique junction fitting or swept junction at an upstream angle of

o
not greater than 60 , all swept in the direction of flow, except for
concrete pipes;
(ii) a storm water pit or an inlet pit.
(b) Where a storm water drain on grade and a vertical downpipe connect, the
upstream angle shall not be greater than 60o.
8.5.4 Storm Water Pits and Inlet Pits
(1) The design of storm water pits and inlet pits shall be in accordance with the
relevant provisions in Section 7.
(2) Inlet pits shall be provided with inlets in appropriate locations (see 8.4.4(2)(a)).
8.5.5 Inlets
(1) Inlets shall be installed at intermediate and terminal locations (see 8.4.4(2)(a))
to permit the entry of storm water to inlet pits.
(2) Inlet bars or gratings shall be designed and installed to withstand external
pressures (e.g. vehicle), and shall be adequately spaced in accordance with
good engineering practice.
8.6 INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
8.6.1 Inspection
(1) The work should be visually inspected during installation to check compliance
with the specification and design.
(2) On completion of the installation, all aboveground and underground installations

should be inspected to ensure that no obstructions are present.
8.6.2 Testing
(1) (a) Each new, repaired or altered section of an:
(i) internal gutter, when plugged and filled with water to the immediate
upstream overflow level for not less than 5.0min.; and
(ii) internal downpipe when plugged and filled with water to the
immediate upstream overflow level for not less than 5.0min.,
shall be free from leaks.
(b) External downpipes and gutters should be tested as in for the

corresponding internal elements in (a) above where necessary.
(2) Each new, repaired, or altered section of a storm water drain shall be subject to
either a water test or an air test. The testing method shall be as described in
Section 6.
8.6.3 Maintenance
(1) (a) Gutters, downpipes and gratings should be inspected and thoroughly
cleaned before and after every rainy season, or more often if the building
8.19
is in or near dusty area, or is near to trees, or may be subject to extremes

of temperature.
(b) Inlet pits, channels and storm water drains should be inspected and
cleaned out regularly. The frequency of inspection and cleaning will need
to be based on local experience. Defects should be remedied as soon as
possible after being noted.
(2) All ferrous metals require protection against corrosion and, if not supplied with
an adequate protective coating, they should be painted.
8.20
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 9: GAS SYSTEMS ................................................................................. 9.1

9.1 SCOPE ........................................................................................................... 9.1
9.2 PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN .............................................................................. 9.1
9.3 PIPE SIZING .................................................................................................... 9.2
9.4 PIPING ........................................................................................................... 9.3
i
SECTION 9
GAS SYSTEMS
9.1 SCOPE
(1) This section deals with the gas systems and presents principles of designing
the systems for kitchen equipment, all other equipment requiring same,
laboratory outlets, and elsewhere as required by the program, pipe sizing and
piping.
9.2 PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN
(1) Provide gas to kitchen equipment, all other equipment requiring same,
laboratory outlets, and elsewhere as required by the program.
(2) Gas should normally be supplied from the utility company’s street mains.
Where no street mains are available, supply must be from a liquefied petroleum
(LP) “bottled” installation.
(3) Contract the local utility company for the availability of street (natural) gas in
the area. Obtain drawings showing locations and sizes of gas mains in the
3
area. Obtain pressure and Kilojoules/m content of the available gas.
(4) Gas service is usually low pressure (3.45 kilopascal or less); however,
sometimes it may be medium or high pressure and require reduction.
(5) Design gas systems in accordance with the utility company’s requirements,
NFPA standard 54, and the requirements of applicable codes.
(6) Investigate carefully the requirements of equipment requiring gas; calculate the
branch piping as well as the mains and risers on the basis of the requirements
of the equipment.
(7) Loads for equipment should be taken from the manufacturer’s ratings.
(8) Use factor for commercial kitchen equipment should be 100 percent.
Simultaneous use factors for dwelling units (68,575 kilojoules/h per dwelling
unit) should be as follows:
(9) Load for a laboratory outlet should be 5,275 kilojoules/h for small burners and
11,078 kilojoules/h for large burners. Find out from the owner which type he
uses. Generally, schools use small burners and research and hospital
laboratories use large burners. If in doubt, assume large burners.
(10) Calculate laboratory gas demands using the following simultaneous use
factors:
(11) Branches serving one or two classrooms should have 100 percent use factor
regardless of the number of outlets. Use factor for more than two classrooms
may be 80 percent, and thereafter twice the normal laboratory use factor if this
is less than 80 percent.
(12) Simultaneous use factors must be used with judgement and modified to adapt
to special conditions as they occur in the system.
9.1
(13) Gas piping should pitch back to the meter wherever possible. All risers and
trapped sections of nipple and cap.
(14) All risers and branches should be valved. Provide mains with sectionalising
valves at strategic locations. All connections for future extension should be
valved.
(15) In piping up gas meters, the inlet is always on the left and the outlet is on the
right.
(16) Wherever possible, gas mains and risers should be run exposed rather than
concealed in shafts or hung ceilings. This is to prevent the possible
accumulation of gas in these closed spaces due to even minute leakage from
the gas piping system, which may explode if in the proper concentration and
subject to an igniting spark of any kind. Where it is impossible to keep this gas
piping out of hung ceilings, shafts and wall recesses, the HVAC project
engineer is to be notified so that he can provide some sort of ventilation for
these spaces to prevent the possible accumulation of gas.
(17) No gas piping should be run in or through air plenum ceilings, clothes chutes,
air ducts, dumb waiters, stair enclosures, or elevator shafts.
(18) Gas risers in air shafts must be enchased or separated by masonry

construction.
(19) Gas piping passing perpendicular through air plenum ceilings or ducts, without
connections, should be sleeved for the full length.
9.3 PIPE SIZING
(1) Piping form the street main to the meter is usually sized by the utility company.
We are responsible for sizing the piping form the meter to the point of use.
(2) Piping after the meter should be sized on the basis of the cubic feet per hour
loads and simultaneous use factors given above.
(3) Demands with different use factors should be carried separately in calculations
and only added together at the end.
(4) Base pipe-size selection on a maximum friction loss of 0.008 m of water from the
meter to the farthest horizontal point of use. Take a credit of 0.00254 m of water
gain per 4.57 m or rise in sizing risers. Convert actual run of piping to equivalent
developed length before calculating friction losses.
(5) Size piping to include future anticipated loads and to provide for normal flexibility
in laboratory areas.
(6) Use the following sizes for laboratory bench piping.
• Branches to equipment should be at least the size of the connection on the

equipment.
(7) Use gas calculator to determine friction loss in piping
9.2
9.4 PIPING
(1) Low-pressure piping should be steel pipe with threaded malleable iron fittings;
or in larger sizes, and for medium- or high-pressure piping, welded fittings.
9.3
APPENDIX

1.0 Table 1: Minimum Facilities (Cont'd)
Typing of Building Water Closet Urinal Lavatory Shower Drinking Laundry Kitchen Cleaner's
or Occupancy Fountain Tub Sink Sink
1.8 Manufacturing, No. of No. of No. of

Warehousing, persons persons persons
Factories,
Workshops,
Foundries,
Laundries &
Other similar
types of
buildings
(i) Male 1-15 1 1-20 1 1-15 1 Where 1 for each - - 1 for each
16-35 2 21-45 2 16-35 2 necessary 50 persons floor
36-65 3 46-70 3 36-65 3 1 per 20
66-100 4 71-100 4 66-100 persons
Over 1 for each Over 1 for each
100 50 additional 100 50 additional
persons persons
Female 1-12 1 - 1-12 1 Where 1 for each - - 1 for each

13-25 2 13-25 2 necessary 1 50 persons floor
26-40 3 26-40 3 per 20
41-57 4 41-57 4 persons*
58-77 5 58-77 5
78-100 6 78-100 6
Over 1 for each Overr 1 for each
100 30 additional 100 30 additional
persons persons
* For Emergency: 1 for every 4 persons who may be exposed to excessive heat or skin contamination with poisonous or irritating material
1
1.0. Table 1: Minimum Facilities (Cont'd)
1.7 Restaurants
(i) Public No. of No. of
persons persons
(a) Male 1-50 1 for each 1-15 1 - - - - 1 for each

51-150 2 40 persons 16-50 2 floor
150-250 3 51-100 3
Over 1 for each Over 1 for each
200 additional 100 additional
200 persons 60 persons
(b) Female 1-50 1 1-15 1 - - - - 1 for each

50-100 2 16-50 2 floor
101-150 3 50-100 3
151-200 4 Over 1 for each
Over 1 for each additional
additional 60 persons
200 persons
Staff:
(a) Male 1-15 1 1-6 0 1-15 - - - - 1 for each
16-50 2 7-45 1 16-35 floor
51-100 3 46-100 2 66-100
Over 1 for each
100 additional 35
persons
(b) Female 1-12 -1 - 1-15 - - - - 1 for each

13-40 -2 16-35 floor
41-60 -3 36-65
61-100 -4 66-100
Over 1 for each
100 additional 35
persons
61
1
1.0. Table 1:0 Minimum Facilities (Cont'd)
1.5 Public No. of M F No. of No. of - 1 for each - - 1 for each

Boarding persons persons persons floor floor
1-15 1 1 1-15 0 1-15

16-35 2 2 16-35 1 16-35
36-60 3 3 36-60 1 36-60
61-90 4 5 61-90 1 61-90
91-120 5 7 91-120 2 91-120
121-150 6 8 121-150 2 121-150
151-190 6 9 151-190 3 151-190
191-240 8 11 191-240 4 191-240
241-300 9 12 241-300 4 241-300
Over 1 for each Over 1 for each Over 1 for each
300 35/25 300 50 additional 300 45 additional
additional persons persons
persons
1.6 Cinemas
Concert
Halls, Art 1-100 1 1 1-200 1 1-100 1 1 - - - - -
Galleries, 101-200 2 2 201-750 2 101-200 2 1
Theatres, 201-400 3 3 Over 201-400 2 2
Libraries, Over 50 1 for each 401-750 3 3
Auditorium 750 1 for each 300 additional
& Other 500 additional persons
Public areas persons
1
or Occupancy Fountation Tub Sink Sink
1.4 Hospitals
(i) Administration No. of No. of No. of
Building: persons persons Persons
(a) Male 1-15 1 1-6 0 1-15 1 - - - - 1 for each

16-35 2 7-20 1 16-65 2 floor
36-65 3 21-45 2 36-65 3
66-100 4 46-70 3 66-100 4
71-100 4
(b) Female 1-12 1 - 1-12 1 - - - - 1 for each

13-25 2 13-25 2 floor
26-65 3 26-40 3
41-57 4 41-57 4
58-77 5 58-77 5
(ii) Medical Staff

Quarters:
(a) Male 1 per 4 persons - 1 in each 1 per 4 - - - at least 1

bedroom persons per floor
(b) Female 1 per 4 persons - 1 in each 1 per 4 - - - at least 1

(c) Nurses 1 per 4 persons - 1 in each 1 per 4 - - - at least 1

1
1.3 Hotels 1 per 9 persons; - 1 per 9 1 per 9 persons; 1 per 30

omitting occupants bedroom omitting occupants bedroom with
of rooms with baths minimum
(i) Residents Occupants of rooms in suites of 1 per
(a) Public with W.C.'s floor
(b) Staff suites
(ii) Non-
Residential No. of persons No. of persons No. of persons
(a) Male 1-15 1 1-6 0 1-15 1 - - - - 1 for each

16-35 2 7-20 1 16-35 2 floor
36-65 3 21-45 2 36-65 3
66-100 4 71-100 4 66-100 4
Female 1-12 1 - 1-12 1 - - - - 1 for each

13-25 2 13-25 2 floor
26-40 3 26-40 3
41-57 4 41-57 4
58-77 5 58-77 5
78-100 6 78-100 6
1
151 - 1757 Over Over 200 1 for each

over 1 for each 200 1 for each additional
additional addition 50 pupils
30 pupils 50 pupils
- Girls 1-20 2 1-20 2 None required 1 for each - - at least 1

21-40 2 21-40 2 except for gyms 75 pupils or 1 per floor
41-60 3 41-60 3 and special drinking water
61-80 4 61-80 4 purposes tap for each 40
81-100 5 81-100 5 pupils
101-120 6 101-120 6
121-140 7 121-140 7
141-160 8 141-160 8
161-180 9 161-180 9
181-200 10 181-200 10
Over Over
200 1 for each 30 200 1 for each 50
additional additional
pupils pupils
1
(b) Boarding No. of M F No. of M No. of M F No. of No. of

Schools: persons persons persons persons
- University
Residence 1-15 1 1 1-30 1 1-15 1 2 1-15 1 1 for each 1-30 1 1 for each 1 for each
16-30 2 2 31-50 2 16-30 2 3 16-30 2 75 persons 31-75 2 utility kitchen floor
31-50 3 4 51-100 3 31-50 3 4 31-45 3 provided
51-75 4 6 101-150 4 51-75 4 5 46-60 6
76-100 6 8 Over 1 for 76-100 6 8 61-100 10
101-150 8 10 each
additional
50
persons
(c) Other
schools: No. of pupils No. of pupils No. of pupils
- Boys 1-25 2 1-25 1 1-30 1 None required 1 for 75 - - at least 1

26-50 2 26-50 2 31-55 2 except for gyms pupils or one per floor
51-75 3 51-75 2 56-80 2 and special drinking water
76-100 4 76-100 3 81-110 3 purposes tap for each 40
101-125 5 101-150 4 111-150 4 pupils
126-150 6 150-200 5 151-200 4
1
1.0 Table 1: Minimum Facilities
1.1 Dwellings 1 for each - 1 for each 1 for each - 1 1 for each
dwelling dwelling dwelling compartment dwelling
dwelling
1.2 Schools- No. of M F No. of No. of No. of

General persons persons persons persons
(i) Staff: 1-15 1 1 1-15 0 1-15 1 - 1 for each - - 1 for each

16-35 2 2 16-35 1 16-35 2 floor
36-60 3 4 36-60 1 36-60 3
61-90 4 5 61-90 1 61-90 4
(ii) Pupils:
(a) Nursery 1 per 15 pupils - 1 per 10 pupils - 1 per 40 - - at least 1

Schools: mimimum of 2 to minimum of 2 to pupils per floor
be provided be provide

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THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT

In exercising this mission and in discharging its responsibilities, the Ministry is

The Code for Sanitary Installations In Buildings will be a nationally recognized

The major benefits to be gained in applying this document are the

SECTION 1: SCOPE AND INTERPRETATIONS .................................................. 1.1

SECTION 1 : SCOPE AND INTERPRETATIONS .......................................................................... 1.1

2.10.11 Testing of Water Supply Systems ......................................................................... 2.8

SECTION 4: DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY .................................................................................... 4.1

4.8 PIPE SIZING ........................................................................................................................ 4.27

SECTION 5 : FIRE FIGHTING WATER SUPPLY ........................................................................... 5.1

SECTION 6 : INTERNAL DRAINAGE SYSTEM OF BUILDINGS .................................................. 6.1

7.4.2 Determination of Pipe Size and Gradient ............................................................. 7.2

8.4.2 Run-off .......................................................................................................... 8.2

SCOPE AND INTERPRETATIONS

In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires:

Appliance : means a receptacle with necessary appurtenances designed for a

Authority : means any body authorised by the Government to enforce these

sewer and where ground conditions prevent the use of an on site

Duct : means an enclosure designed to accommodate water pipes and

Dwelling : means a building constructed and adopted or designed to be used

Effluent : means liquid discharged from a wastewater treatment unit

Fire fighting water

Fixture : Refer to Appliance.

Flushing siphon : means a device, manual or automatic, actuated by siphonic action.

Gully trap : means an assembly used in a wastewater system which provides a

Intercepting trap : means a devise designed and installed so as to separate and

Interceptor : means an appurtenance or device designed and installed so as

Junction : means a plumbing fitting used to connect a branch pipe or

Manhole : Refer to Inspection Chamber.

Nominal size : means a numerical designation of the size of a pipe, bend or

Peak flow : means the maximum rate of a fluctuating flow.

Pipework : means an installation of piping with its fittings.

Plumber : means a person who is technically qualified and certified by the

Roding : means a system of rods which are progressively joined to clear

Sanitary unit : Refer to Appliance.

Septic tank : means a water-tight receptacle which receives the discharge of

Sewage : means any liquid waste containing animal, vegetable, or mineral

Sewer : means a conduit for the carriage of sewage which is usually

Sleeve : means an enclosure of tubular or other section of suitable

Sprinkler system : means an assembly of pipework graded in size, erected

Spud : means the threaded outlet connection from a water-closet or

Supply pipe : means so much of any service pipe as is not a communication

Trap : means a fitting or device so designed and constructed as to

Vent pipe : means a pipe installed to provide circulation of air within a

Water-outlet : means when used with reference to a water distributing pipe, an

SECTION 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................... 2.1

2.10.10 Testing of Building Drains .................................................................... 2.8

Tables 2.1: Long sweep bends ................................................................................. 2.3

2.1.3 Application for Approval

2.1.4 Plans and Specifications

(1) Every application for approval shall be submitted by a competent person

(a) a specification or abstract of the proposed works, and

2.1.5 Duration of Approval

2.2 UNITS OF MEASUREMENTS

(1) All plumbing shall be installed in a workmanlike manner and shall

2.4 EXISTING BUILDINGS

(1) In existing buildings in which the plumbing systems are to be altered,