Massachusetts Plumbers Journeyman Practice Exam

In commercial applications, when is PVC/ABS permitted to be used for drains?

1. Medical facilities

2. Animal shelters

3. Beauty salons

4. Schools

The correct answer is: Beauty salons

In commercial applications, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are commonly used for drains due to their lightweight nature, resistance to corrosion, and ease of installation. Beauty salons are one of the settings where PVC/ABS is permitted for drainage systems because these materials can effectively handle the waste typically generated, including hair, skin products, and liquids. Beauty salons often have specialized plumbing needs, and PVC or ABS is suitable due to its durability and resistance to some chemicals found in beauty products. The local plumbing codes allow these materials in such environments, provided they are correctly installed and maintained. In contrast, other environments such as medical facilities, animal shelters, and schools may have more stringent requirements due to the presence of hazardous waste, the need for robustness to prevent leaks, and considerations for sanitation. These factors often lead to the preference for materials that offer greater compliance with health and safety standards specific to those applications.