Journeyman Plumber ExamDrainage, Waste, and Venting (DWV) SystemsEasy
A plumber is installing a floor sink that receives discharge from a commercial ice machine. This discharge must not directly connect to the sanitary drainage system. What type of waste connection is required?
- ASpecial waste
- BIndirect waste
- CDirect waste
- DCombination waste
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Indirect waste
An indirect waste connection, typically involving an air gap or air break, is required for fixtures and equipment that discharge contaminated liquids or liquids that could pose a cross-connection hazard, such as condensate from ice machines, refrigerators, or sterilizers.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Special waste refers to the type of waste (e.g., chemical, radioactive) rather than the connection method.
- C. Direct waste connects directly to the sanitary drainage system, which is prohibited for ice machines due to cross-connection risk.
- D. Combination waste refers to a pipe that serves as both a drain and a vent, not a specific connection type for protected fixtures.
Indirect Waste
An indirect waste is a drainage pipe that discharges into a plumbing fixture, receptor, or interceptor that is not an integral part of the building drainage system. It provides an air gap or air break to prevent cross-contamination.
- Prevents cross-contamination.
- Uses air gap or air break.
- Required for food/beverage equipment.
- Required for medical/dental equipment.
Memory trick: Indirect Means No Direct Link, Avoiding Contamination, We Think!