What materials are commonly restricted in plumbing due to health concerns?

Galvanized steel and lead are commonly restricted in plumbing due to significant health concerns associated with their use. Lead, in particular, is known to cause severe health issues, especially in children. It can leach into drinking water from plumbing systems that incorporate lead pipes or fixtures, leading to lead poisoning, which can have long-term developmental effects.

Similarly, galvanized steel can pose health risks when it deteriorates over time; the zinc coating may wear away, exposing iron that can corrode and potentially release harmful substances into the water supply. The degradation of galvanized steel, especially in older plumbing systems, raises concerns about rust and contamination.

In contrast, materials like steel and plastic are usually considered safe for use in plumbing systems, while wood and glass do not typically serve as primary materials for plumbing due to their structural limitations and susceptibility to damage from water. Copper and aluminum are generally accepted in plumbing, although copper has its own set of regulations and standards to prevent corrosion and leaching issues.