The model plumbing codes that we use between PA, NJ & Philadelphia vary greatly when it comes down to fixture quantities versus occupancy. hpeGROUP prefers to be proactive in our coordination efforts to help our partner architect translate the required fixture counts from the different governing codes.
Here’s a quick look where things can go wrong:
- Example: 10,000 sq ft. single story business occupancy.
- Occupancy: 100 people based on 1 person per 100 sq. ft.
- Mix Ratio: 50 male / 50 female
2003 International Plumbing Code Table 403.1 requires:
- 1 male / 1 female water closet per 50 occupants
- 1 male / 1 female lavatory per 80 occupants
- 1 drinking fountain per 100 occupants
- 1 service sink
Total fixtures: 1 Male WC, 1 Male LAV, 1 Female WC, 1 Female LAV, 1 DF, 1 MR
2003 National Standard Plumbing Code Table 7.21.1
- 1 male / 1 female water closet per 1-15 occupants; add 1 for 16-40; add 1 for 41-75
- 1 male lavatory per 1-15 occupants; add 0 for 16-40; add 1 for 41-75
- 1 female lavatory per 1-15 occupants; add 2 for 16-40; add 1 for 41-75
- 1 drinking fountain per 1000 occupants
- 1 service sink
Total fixtures: 3 Male WC, 2 Male LAV, 3 Female WC, 4 Female LAV, 1 DF, 1 MR
Philadelphia Plumbing Code Table P-701
- 2 water closets per 1-15 occupants; 4 water closets per (16-35);
- 5 water closets per (36-55)
- 1 lavatory per 1-15 occupants; 2 lavatories per (16-35);
- 3 lavatories per (36-60)
- 1 drinking fountain per 75 occupants
Total fixtures: 5 male WC, 3 male LAV, 5 female WC, 3 female LAV, 2 DF
As you can see, the fixture requirements vary greatly between the three codes. If you have any doubts in mind, contact us, and we can review the adopted code with you and help program the required plumbing fixture count.