What kind of materials are prohibited in certain plumbing applications according to the plumbing code?

The prohibition of lead pipes and fittings in plumbing applications is rooted in health and safety concerns. Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into drinking water, posing serious health risks, including developmental issues in children and various health problems in adults. As a result, many regulations, including the National Plumbing Code of Canada, have established strict guidelines to eliminate the use of lead in plumbing systems to ensure safe drinking water for all.

Materials like steel, PVC, and copper may have specific applications and use cases within plumbing systems, and while there may be guidelines for their use, they are not outright banned in the same way that lead is. The focus on removing lead aligns with public health initiatives to mitigate exposure to hazardous substances in domestic water supplies.