Massachusetts Plumbers Journeyman Practice Exam

Under what conditions should a safe waste pan be installed for a water heater or hot water storage tank?

1. In a position elevated above any occupied space

2. Directly on the floor

3. Inside a cabinet

4. Outside the building

The correct answer is: In a position elevated above any occupied space

A safe waste pan should indeed be installed in a position elevated above any occupied space. This requirement is in place to ensure that any potential leaks or spills from the water heater or hot water storage tank do not directly endanger people or cause damage to occupied areas within a building. By elevating the waste pan, any overflow can be directed away from living or working spaces, reducing the risk of water damage, mold growth, and potential safety hazards. When considering the other contexts, placing the waste pan directly on the floor would not effectively manage the risk of leaks, as it could lead to water pooling in areas where people may be present. Installing the tank inside a cabinet might conceal any issues until significant damage has occurred, and allowing the potential for undetected leaks to harm the cabinet and surrounding area is not advisable. Positioning a waste pan outside the building might seem practical in some interpretations, but it does not address the immediate needs of safety and accessibility to manage any leaks effectively. Thus, the best choice is to install the pan in a position elevated above any occupied space.