I'm not a plumber, but your average DIY guy that does pretty good most of the time. What's the deal about no use of ABS pipes for drains(compulsory metal pipes) in an apartment building. I was told by one source that in the evnt of a fire, the ABS tends to give off a toxic gas that is dangerous for the firefighters. Any and all enlightenment welcome,

jimmydee

I work under very strict Code. We can use ABS in commercial apartment buildings inside walls, floors and ceilings. But, any exposed plumbing must be Cast Iron, Copper or any other type of rigid metal. No exposed plastic of any kind. In places like hospitals and restaurants, even traps have to be metal.

Yes, I have heard of your claim. I am not sure about the "toxic fumes" and the " ...danger to firemen..." explanation... but here they say that any material that burns fast, like plastics should be avoided in certain areas.

ABS and PVC both give out toxic fumes when burning although PVC is more flame retardant. While we use PVC in single family houses in my area we are mandated to use cast iron in all condo and commercial buildings. Regards, Tom

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Originally Posted by Milo Dolezal

I work under very strict Code. We can use ABS in commercial apartment buildings inside walls, floors and ceilings. But, any exposed plumbing must be Cast Iron, Copper or any other type of rigid metal. No exposed plastic of any kind. In places like hospitals and restaurants, even traps have to be metal.

Yes, I have heard of your claim. I am not sure about the "toxic fumes" and the " ...danger to firemen..." explanation...... but here they say that any material that burns fast, like plastics should be avoided in certain areas.

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First of all, thanks for your prompt response. This site sounds terrific to me. I must admit, I should have, and failed to advise that I'm in Brampton, ON, Canada, because codes could and sometimes do vary around the different parts of US & Canada. Jimmydee

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Originally Posted by speedball1

ABS and PVC both give out toxic fumes when burning although PVC is more flame retardant. While we use PVC in single family houses in my area we are mandated to use cast iron in all condo and commercial buildings. Regards, Tom

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As I replied to Milo, thanks for your prompt response and comments, Tom. I forgot to mention that I'm in Brampton, ON Canada. Your comments are appreciated, thanks again, Jimmydee