Recent requests from the plumbing industry has prompted NSF International to expand services for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) water main piping products. NSF’s new services evaluate and certify PVC pipes that meet UL 1285: Pipe and Couplings, PVC for Underground Fire Service’s performance requirements.

These devices include PVC and molecular oriented polyvinyl chloride (PVCO) pressure pipe, couplings and gaskets for use in underground fire service systems and connections to such systems.

NSF also announced that Sanderson Pipe Corporation, a manufacturer of PVC pipe, is the first client to be certified to UL 1285: Pipe by NSF’s Plumbing Program.                                                                                         

Since the requirements of UL 1285 and AWWA C900: PVC Pressure Pipe and Fabricated Fittings, 4-Inch through 12-Inch, for Water Distribution standards are very similar, NSF can bundle these services to offer a listing to UL 1285, AWWA C900 and NSF 14: Plastics Piping System Components and Related Materials saving additional cost and time. These specifications include dimensions, testing, and toxicology to make sure pipe is safer for customers, as well as the environment.   

“This listing service expansion will enable manufacturers of PVC piping to take advantage of the convenience of having one source for their plumbing, conduit and now water main pipe testing/certification needs,” said Nasrin Kashefi, general manager, NSF plumbing program.

NSF’s listing program meets the listing requirements in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 24: Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and their Appurtenances. NSF is also a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for UL 1285.

For more information about the new services offered by NSF’s Plumbing Program, contact Tim Haenftling, technical manager of NSF’s plumbing programs, at haenftling@nsf.org.