Reminder: Maryland Lead Free Plumbing

Back in December we told you about NSF/ANSI Standard 61 Annex G (NSF 61-G) and how it goes into effect nationally on January 1 2014.  NSF 61-G ensures that any plumbing product that delivers drinkable water is limited to ≤ 0.25% weighted average lead content. The state of Maryland however, has decided to enforce NSF 61-G two years in advance and it went into effect on January 1 of this year.

The most common items of concern for lead safety are brass and solder - copper, plastic, stainless steel and chrome are all lead-free.

Concerned about lead in your home or business? Call us today at 410-840-8118.

All of Apple Plumbing’s technicians have been trained on this new standard and can help you identify and rectify lead plumbing issues in your home or business.

EPA Lead Free Laws to Go Into Effect in Maryland Jan 1 2012

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will require all plumbing products to meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61 Annex G (NSF 61-G) effective January 1 2014. NSF 61-G is a standard to limit the weighted average lead content of plumbing products to ≤ 0.25% for any plumbing that delivers potable (drinkable) water.

The state of Maryland’s Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation has decided to amend the current plumbing code to enforce NSF 61-G two years in advance.

Starting on January 1, 2012, all plumbing systems under the Maryland State Board of Plumbing’s code delivering potable water will be required to meet NSF 61-G.

Most materials used in plumbing are naturally lead free or low lead.  Copper, plastic, stainless steel and chrome are all lead free.  Items containing brass and solder are the most common “leaded” materials.

Many plumbing items that traditionally had a lead content will now be stamped “LF”, “NSF/ANSI Standard 61 Certified”, or “NSF 61” to show they are low lead or lead free.  County and state plumbing inspectors will be looking at these items to verify they meet code requirement during inspections.

All of Apple Plumbing’s technicians and employees have been trained on this new standard and have a copy of the amended code in their company manuals.  If you have any questions regarding the new laws ask your technician or call our office.