Louisiana Administrative Code
Title 51 - PUBLIC HEALTH-SANITARY CODE
Part XIV - Plumbing
Chapter 6 - Water Supply and Distribution
Section XIV-607 - Identification of Nonpotable Water

Universal Citation: LA Admin Code XIV-607

Current through Register Vol. 50, No. 9, September 20, 2024

A. Color Code Identification. Piping and outlets conveying nonpotable water shall be adequately and durably identified by a distinctive yellow-colored paint so that it is readily distinguished from piping carrying potable water.

1. Exception. Reclaimed Water. Where reclaimed water is piped or used, piping and outlets conveying this particular type of nonpotable water shall be adequately and durably identified by a distinctive purple-colored paint (or, in lieu of paint, the purple color may be manufactured integral to the pipe) so that it is readily distinguished from piping carrying potable water. The color standard and color tolerances of the required purple-color should meet the American Public Works Association's Uniform Color Code, i.e., Pantone Matching System 253, which is further specified in ANSI Z535.1-2006 (R2011) and identified in the ANSI Z535-2011 color chart.)

2. In those instances when it is not feasible to paint the entire length of the nonpotable water pipe, each nonpotable pipe shall be minimally identified with the words "caution: nonpotable water, - do not drink" in black lettering on a band of yellow-colored paint as background to designate that the liquid being conveyed therein is nonpotable. Such identification shall not be concealed by pipe insulation and when insulated the insulation shall be painted the same color as is required for the pipe. Maintenance of all identification shall be the responsibility of the owner. This identification shall be done in accordance with ASME A 13.1. The minimum size of the black letters and the length of the yellow-colored paint field shall conform to the requirements in Table 607.A.2 of this code.

Table 607.A.2

Minimum Length of Color Field and Size of Letters

Outside Diameter of Pipe or Covering

(Inches)

Minimum Length of Color Field

(Inches)

Minimum Size of Letters

(Inches)

1/2 to 1 1/4

8

1/2

1 1/2 to 2

8

3/4

2 1/2 to 6

12

1 1/4

8 to 10

24

2 1/2

Over 10

32

3 1/2

3. Within and about buildings and structures, a visible colored identification band shall be provided every 20 feet (6096 mm) but at least once per room, and the wording shall be visible in the normal line of vision from floor level. On straight pipe runs, the visible identification band shall be at intervals sufficient for identification. Arrows shall be used to indicate the direction of normal flow.

4. It is expressly understood that fire protection piping systems, downstream of the backflow preventer, is not considered plumbing, as per the definition of plumbing in Section 203 of this code. Nothing herein shall be construed to prevent, for example, fire protection piping from being painted a red color with white lettering. Likewise, other color combinations may be used for other specific applications in accord with ASME A 13.1.

B. Contents Identification. Where any type of nonpotable water is used, all valves, branch fittings and branch terminals shall be minimally identified by the words "caution: nonpotable water, - do not drink" in black lettering on a yellow background. This identification shall be done in accordance with ASME A 13.1.Besides the caution statement, the contents (i.e., the specific nonpotable liquid) may also be identified on the legend.

C. Overall Exception to this Section (§607 of this code). Pursuant to R.S. 40:4.12, industrial-type facilities listed therein shall not be required to comply with this section (§607 of this code) provided that such facilities have a potable water distribution identification plan in conformity with the requirements of R.S. 40:4.12. The required formal cross-connection control survey of the facility referenced in R.S. 40:4.12 shall be performed by an individual holding a valid cross-connection control surveyor certificate issued under the requirements of ASSE 5120, or other individuals holding a surveyor certificate from a nationally recognized backflow certification organization approved by the state health officer.

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with R.S. 30:2399, R.S. 40:4(A)(7) and R.S. 40:5(2)(3)(7)(9)(16)(17)(20).

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