Every three years the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials publishes a revised and updated version of its signature codes — the Uniform Plumbing Code and the Uniform Mechanical Code. These “model codes” are used by many states, and in some cases, individual municipalities as the basis for their own codes governing the installation and inspection of plumbing and mechanical projects in their jurisdictions. The Uniform Codes are designed to set the standard for safe plumbing, heating and mechanical systems while, at the same time, allowing latitude for innovation and new technologies.
IAPMO’s code development process is governed by its 2021 Consensus Code Development Cycle: Bylaws, Regulations, Procedures and Guidelines. IAPMO’s Uniform Codes are unique in that they are also American National Standards, meaning that IAPMO’s procedures have been approved by the American National Standards Institute in recognition of its adherence to a strictly-defined “consensus” process. Consensus is defined in ANSI Essential Requirements: Due process requirements for American National Standards as follows: