Guidelines for compliance with the performance criteria of plumbing systems according to NBR 15575-6

Abstract

The aim of this article is to characterise the current stage of plumbing systems concerning NBR 15575-6 and analyse the performance criteria to provide information to the designers, builders, and for the standard’s review. The method included five steps: analysing the compliance with the standard by designers and builders, analysing the information provided by manufacturers about durability, data collection of pathological manifestations in plumbing systems, conducting on-site tests that are responsibility of the builder and analysing the performance criteria. The results indicate that construction companies have a low conformity index with NBR 15575-6, and designers have a higher conformity index. As for manufacturers, only 10% provide accurate product durability data. With regards to pathological manifestations, the most recurrent ones are leaks in toilets, taps, showers, and odours and foam returns in the plumbing traps/drains. As for the tests, they are feasible, but there are difficulties in the tightness tests for the hot water, sanitary sewage and rainwater installations. The main contribution of this study is the identification and discussion of the standard’s criteria that generate doubts in their interpretation and application.

Keywords:
Performance standard; Plumbing systems; Failures