When you are a commercial plumber, the number of questions that you get from business owners and building owners about commercial plumbing codes seems to be endless. With upgraded codes and buildings grandfathered in, we get it; it is complicated. So, in this blog, we are going to look at how commercial plumbing codes work in Toledo, Ohio and what you need to know, or at least need to look up, when it comes to commercial plumbing in this amazing city. Hint: if you have questions, the professional plumbers at Fry are here to guide you through the process, whether it's about an upgrade, an existing issue, or something out of left field.
Ohio Building Code and Ohio Plumbing Code Framework
Here in Ohio, commercial plumbing uses the Ohio Building Code as the code of record, and all replacements and installations must adhere to it. In addition, for plumbing installations, a commercial plumber must adhere to the Ohio Plumbing Code Framework, which was implemented in March 2024 and works hand in hand with the Ohio Building Code. This framework is based on the 2021 International Plumbing Code and is customized for the State of Ohio with specific building drain, waste and vent requirements. Any reputable commercial plumber will adhere to both and ensure that any work being done in Toledo, or any surrounding community, also complies with any specific county or city codes that may be in effect for water or waste systems.
Permits
As any commercial tenant or owner can tell you, permits are always needed. Commercial plumbing is no different, and you will need to check with your local council or county officials to determine the specifics that you need to obtain a commercial plumbing permit. Everything from new installations and rerouting to major replacements will likely require a commercial plumbing permit to proceed. You may also need additional drawings or engineering work completed before the plumbing work, depending on the specific project scope. Here at Fry, we work with you to obtain these permits, but not all commercial plumbers are capable of working with a client on the paperwork side of a project.
Working with a Licensed Plumber
Commercial plumbing permits and code-specific work must be completed by a licensed plumber registered to work in Toledo, OH. Unlike your under-the-table residential plumbing job, commercial work is highly regulated, and you need to work with a company that not only can do the job but also has the correct certifications to work at that level of system. If you are inspected, using a licensed plumber will ensure your project is done to spec and that you do not face fines or shutdowns resulting from improper plumbing or permit issues.
Backflow Device Installation
All commercial and industrial facilities with a cross connection within the State of Ohio are required by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to have a backflow device installed and tested every 12 months by a certified technician. This regulation is in the Ohio Administrative Code, Chapter 3745-95, and is enforced by local public water suppliers on behalf of the State. To remain compliant, companies need to have their backflow assemblies inspected and tested every 12 months. Every 30 months, you will need to have your device internally inspected and either cleaned or repaired. You will also have an on-site cross-connection control survey every 5 years. This is not a nice-to-have, and for commercial and industrial facilities that try to skirt the rules, you could face a water shut-off, failed device penalties, or civil penalties.
ADA Compliance
Finally, if you are a larger company or serve the general public, you will also want to be aware of ADA compliance rules for your washrooms. ADA-compliant washrooms provide space and mobility aids for those who need a little more help in the bathroom, such as grab bars, larger handles, and other features. When designing and installing a new washroom, you will want to work with a commercial plumber who knows the current ADA guidelines and can ensure your new layout works.
Commercial building code and the associated plumbing code can be a complex beast, but when you work with a professional commercial plumber, you can know that your next upgrade or overhaul is going to be done to code. From backflow device inspections to working with you to complete your next major building overhaul, the team at Fry is the best commercial plumbing company in Toledo, ready to help however you need. Call us today and see how a Fry commercial plumber can help with your next project!
