BCAB #1304 - Shut-off Valves for Fixtures - Sentence 6.1.3.(8) & Article 1.3.2. - B.C. Plumbing Code

May 19, 1993

BCAB #1304

Re: Shut-off Valves for Fixtures - Sentence 6.1.3.(8) & Article 1.3.2. - B.C. Plumbing Code

Project Description

The project in question is a single family dwelling.

Reason for Appeal

Sentence 6.1.3.(8) of the 1992 B.C. Plumbing Code requires shut-off valves for hot and cold water at each fixture. A fixture is defined in Article 1.3.2. as "a receptacle, appliance, apparatus or other device that discharges sewage or clear-water waste, and includes a floor drain."

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends that a clothes washer is a fixture and thus requires shut-off valves which may be hose bibs. These valves or hose bibs are not fixtures and do not require additional shut-off valves.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains that the hose bibs are the fixtures and as such they require shut-off valves. He points out that a hose bib is assigned a value of 3 fixture units in Table 6.3.A.

Appeal Board Decision #1304

It is the determination of the Board that the washing machine is the fixture, one which incorporates internal solenoid shut off valves. The hose bib faucets would be considered the shut-off valves required by Sentence 6.1.3.(8) of the 1992 B.C. Plumbing Code.

George R. Humphrey, Chair