LEAD FREE FITTINGS

LEAD FREE FITTINGS - What is the new lead-free requirement? In 2011, the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act was signed into law. The Act has reduced the lead content allowed in drinking water system and plumbing materials by changing the definition of "lead-free" in Section1417of the Safe Drinking Water Act.The term "lead-free" has been updated from notmore that 8% lead content to mean not more than a weighted average of 0.25% lead when used with respect to the wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings and fixtures.

Lead-Free Requirement Exemptions
(A) The new requirement does not apply to pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, or fixtures, including backflow preventers, that are used exclusively for nonpotable service such as manufacturing, industrial processing, irrigation, outdoor watering or any other uses where the water is not anticipated to be used for human consumption.

(B) The new requirement does not apply to toilets, bidets, urinals, fill valves, flushometer valves, tub fillers, shower valves,
service saddles or water distribution main gate valves 2 inches in diameter or larger.

How do I know which products must meet the new lead-free requirement? The prohibitions on use and introduction into commerce apply to all pipe, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures (henceforth reffered to as "products"), including stocked inventories that have not been installed. This
includes coated or uncoated brass or bronze materials. By using the flowchart below as a guide, you can determine
if a product must meet the new lead-free requirement: