Plumbing and Sanitary Installations Code for BuildingsCódigo de Instalaciones Hidráulicas y Sanitarias en Edificaciones

This Code has as its objective to establish the minimum requirements to protect public health, safety, and general welfare in buildings intended for use, occupancy, or human habitation and that are built in the territory of the Republic of Costa Rica.

This Code must be complied with during the stages of design, construction, installation, repair, retrofit, replacement, relocation, addition, or remodeling of buildings.

This Code comprises the sanitary and hydraulic installations for potable water (cold and hot), drainage of wastewater (aguas residuales), venting of sanitary installations, and drainage of stormwater (aguas pluviales), all of them related to buildings.

By their nature, sanitary and hydraulic installations must be designed, constructed, installed, repaired, replaced, or remodeled using proven methodologies and techniques, as well as materials of proven capacity. However, the use of alternative materials and design methods not specifically indicated by this Code is not limited, provided that the professional responsible for the design demonstrates that the use of the alternative allows compliance with the objectives described in this Code.

Regardless of the degree of refinement in the analysis and design, or the quality of the materials, or the construction, it is necessary that all installations for which this Code establishes standards are well conceived and planned, in order to achieve the established objectives.

The provisions contained in this Code represent minimum requirements in pursuit of an adequate performance of the installations. However, the work of the professional responsible for the design must not be limited to the unreflective compliance with these provisions, but must pursue the satisfaction of the objectives established in the Code and adopt, if necessary, alternative criteria more rigorous than those established by this Code.

This Code makes reference to national and foreign standards that are in force at the time of issuance of this standard. Therefore, it is the obligation of the professional to verify and apply the version of said standards that is in force, for its correct application.

DEFINITIONS

- A - Supply (tube) (Abasto (tubo de)): tube, generally flexible, that serves to connect a toilet (inodoro), lavatory, sink (fregadero), or other sanitary fixture to the main potable water supply.

Service connection (Acometida): connection of a specific building to an established system or service.

Water for industrial use: water not necessarily potable, either due to its physical, chemical, or biological characteristics; its expected quality will depend on the needs to be met in each case.

Water for reuse (Agua para reutilización): usable water in any distribution system, with the exception of the potable water distribution system.

Recirculation water (Agua de recirculación): water with quality equal to or higher than that of the system where it is supplied.

Potable water (Agua potable): treated water that complies with the provisions of recommended or maximum admissible aesthetic, organoleptic, physical, chemical, biological, and microbiological values, established in the Regulation for the Quality of Potable Water, Executive Decree No. 38924-S and its amendments, and that when consumed by the population does not cause harm to health.

Wastewater (Aguas residuales): those that contain waste, materials in suspension or solution of human, animal, vegetable, or chemical origin, coming from discharges from residences, commercial buildings, or industrial facilities of any kind; it is classified into two types: ordinary and special.

Special wastewater (Agua residual especial): that of a type different from ordinary; for example, waters from industrial or hospital processes.

Ordinary wastewater (Agua residual ordinaria): wastewater generated by domestic human activities (use of toilets (inodoros), showers, lavatories, sinks (fregaderos)); unless otherwise indicated, when this Code speaks of wastewater (aguas residuales), it refers to this type.

Storm sewer (Alcantarillado pluvial): public or private network of pipes used to collect and transport rainwater to its point of discharge to a receiving body.

Sanitary sewer (Alcantarillado sanitario): public or private network of pipes used to collect and transport wastewater (aguas residuales) to its point of discharge to a treatment system or plant.

Sanitary fixture (Aparato sanitario): appliance generally connected to a water supply system (potable or not), which receives it without risk of contamination and which discharges it to a wastewater (aguas residuales) drainage pipe after being used.

Private-use fixtures (Aparatos de uso privado): those intended to be used by a restricted number of persons, for example, in family residences, commercial buildings, hospital, or industrial buildings.

Public-use fixtures (Aparatos de uso público): those located so that they can be used without restrictions by any person; these can be found in public institution buildings, commercial buildings, temples, stadiums, recreational centers, among others.

Administrative authority (Autoridad administrativa): entity responsible for administering and operating public aqueduct and sewerage systems (AyA, municipalities, or others).

Sanitary authority (Autoridad sanitaria): public entity responsible for setting sanitary standards and laws regarding water quality, as well as the characteristics and requirements of effluents (Ministry of Health).

AyA: Costa Rican Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers (Instituto Costarricense de Acueductos y Alcantarillados).

- B - Stack (Bajante): pipe in a wastewater (aguas residuales) or stormwater (pluviales) drainage system.

Battery of sanitary fixtures (Batería de piezas sanitarias): any group of similar and adjacent sanitary fixtures that have the same water supply pipe and discharge into the same drainage branch.

Cleanout and inspection opening (Boca de inspección y limpieza): piece or accessory that forms part of the drainage pipes, intended to allow inspection and cleaning of said pipes.

Bidet (Bidé): sanitary fixture intended for the hygiene of the intimate parts of the body.

- C - Manhole (Caja de registro): plastic, metal, or concrete structure intended to allow inspection and cleaning of drainage pipes, capture sludge and solid objects; it also allows for changes in direction, slope (pendiente), diameter, and pipe material.

Occupant load (Carga de ocupantes): Total number of people that can occupy a building or portion of it at any one time.

Flow rate (Caudal): volume of liquid or fluid passing through a section of pipe or channel per unit of time; in this Code it is usually expressed in liters per second.

Flow meter (Caudalímetro): see water meter (hidrómetro).

CFIA: Federated College of Engineers and Architects of Costa Rica (Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica).

Cistern (Cisterna): see collection tank (tanque de captación).

Sewer (Cloaca): see wastewater (aguas residuales) or stormwater (pluviales) collector (colector).

Stormwater collector (Colector de aguas pluviales): main pipe intended to collect and convey rainwater from a building to the connection with the storm sewer (alcantarillado pluvial).

Wastewater collector (Colector de aguas residuales): main pipe intended to collect and convey wastewater (aguas residuales) coming from the sanitary network to the connection with a treatment system.

Condominium (Condominio): property built horizontally, vertically, or mixed, susceptible to independent use by different owners, with indivisible common elements; the latter, called "common property" ("bienes comunes"), are those elements, belongings, or services of inalienable and indivisible domain of all owners, necessary for the use, safety, health, conservation, access, recreation, or ornament of the property.

Cross-connection (Conexión cruzada): physical connection between two piping systems, where water can flow from one system to the other, depending on the flow direction and the differential pressure between the two systems.

Domestic water connection (Conexión domiciliaria de agua): section of pipe between the public potable water pipe and the meter located on the exterior of a building.

Domestic stormwater drain connection (Conexión domiciliaria de desagüe pluvial): section of pipe between the last manhole (caja de registro) and the storm sewer (alcantarillado pluvial).

Domestic sanitary drain connection (Conexión domiciliaria de desagüe sanitario): section of pipe between the last manhole (caja de registro) and the sanitary sewer (alcantarillado sanitario).

Consumption (Consumo): flow rate measured at the domestic potable water connection.

ASME-type container: container constructed in accordance with the code and specifications of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

Cylinder-type container: container designed, constructed, tested, and labeled in accordance with the specifications of the Department of Transportation of the United States of America.

Vent stack (Columna de ventilación): pipe intended for the inlet or outlet of air from the drainage system of a multi-story building.

Bathroom (Cuarto de baño): room where sanitary fixtures intended for personal hygiene are located.

- D - Demand (Demanda): potable water consumption for a given time interval, for a given purpose, in a building.

Effective diameter (Diámetro efectivo): internal diameter of a pipe.

Nominal diameter (Diámetro nominal): commercial or standardized dimension of pipes, which does not necessarily correspond to the effective diameter.

Water allowance (Dotación): measure of consumption or demand usually expressed in liters per person per day or its equivalent for a building, according to the use and occupancy for which it is intended.

Indirect waste (Desagüe indirecto): discharge from a sanitary fixture or any other appliance that is carried out through an air gap to the drainage system of a building, by using a floor drain or other suitable device.

Mechanical duct (Ducto mecánico): hollow space left in buildings, of regular section (e.g., rectangular or circular) and generally limited by walls; it is used to house pipes of electromechanical systems or ducts of ventilation and air conditioning systems, in order to allow their inspection, repair, or maintenance.

- E - Building (Edificación): any construction or edifice intended for use, occupancy, or habitation by people.

Runoff (Escorrentía): rainwater that flows over the surface of a terrain.

- F - Filtration (Filtración): physical separation of solid substances in suspension in a liquid through the use of porous media.

Filter (Filtro): device or apparatus with which the filtration process is carried out.

Float valve (Flotador, válvula de): device that is maintained on the water surface of a collection tank (tanque de captación) and is generally used to record level variations or to control a switch or a valve.

Flushometer valve (Fluxómetro): semiautomatic valve that discharges a determined volume of water to evacuate a quantity of liquid from a sanitary fixture (toilet (inodoro) or urinal (mingitorio)); it is usually activated by a lever, button, or electronic sensor.

Leak (Fuga): loss of liquid due to lack of tightness in tanks, pipe fittings, sanitary fixtures, or other.

- G - Flow (Gasto): see flow rate (caudal).

Water hammer (Golpe de ariete): pressure variation suffered by a pipe and its fittings due to sudden changes in water velocity.

Energy gradient (Gradiente de energía): rate of change of the energy line, which describes the sum of the elevation head, the pressure head, and the velocity head.

Hydraulic gradient (Gradiente hidráulico): is the rate of change in the hydraulic grade line, which represents the sum of the pressure head and the elevation head; it is usually expressed in units of length above a reference level.

- H - Water meter (Hidrómetro): device or instrument used to measure the flow rate.

Hydropneumatic (Hidroneumático): see hydropneumatic tank (tanque hidroneumático).

- I - Green infrastructure (Infraestructura verde): network of decentralized stormwater (aguas pluviales) management elements or practices, such as green roofs, trees, rain gardens, permeable pavement, among others, that can capture and infiltrate rain where it falls, thereby reducing runoff (escorrentía) and improving the health of surrounding waterways.

Sanitary installation (Instalación sanitaria): set of pipes, equipment, or devices intended for the supply and distribution of water, and for the evacuation of drains and their venting within the building.

Float switch (Interruptor de flotador): float equipped for controlling a pump or other equipment, whose operation is linked to level variations of a liquid in a tank.

Vacuum breaker (Interruptor de vacío): mechanically acting device intended to prevent the backflow of water.

Interceptor (Interceptor): device designed and installed to separate and retain undesirable or hazardous materials that wastewater (aguas residuales) from a building may contain, allowing, in turn, the gravity drainage of said waters to the drainage pipes.

Grease interceptor (Interceptor de grasa): device used to separate grease and oils from discharges of establishments where food is prepared or where industrial processes generating grease take place; such devices may be of the type for outdoor location, or be located near the sanitary fixture.

- J - Open joints (Juntas abiertas): are joints that are not hermetic and that allow a separation between the pipes that form them.

Flexible joint (Junta flexible): allows slight displacements or rotations of a pipe to absorb vibrations or stresses from external loads, as well as the effects of transient regime situations in the system.

Seismic expansion joint (Junta de dilatación sísmica): accessory used in piping systems to cross seismic joints between structures or to enter from the exterior to the interior of the building; it is an extremely flexible joint, with movement in all directions to prevent breakage in case of an earthquake.

- L - Purge valve (Llave de purga): valve that allows discharging water or sediment from a pipe or vessel.

- M - Water meter (Medidor de agua): see water meter (hidrómetro).

Calculation report (Memoria de cálculo): written account complementary to the project plans and explanatory of the determinants of its operation and the technical bases of the design.

mca: acronym for the pressure unit meter of water column (metro de columna de agua) or water head; one (1) mca is equivalent to 9806.65 MPa at 4 °C.

- N - Overflow level (Nivel de rebalse): is the level corresponding to the discharge of excess water entering a collection tank (tanque de captación) or sanitary fixture.

- P - PE: common acronym for polyethylene, both in English and Spanish.

PEAD: common acronym for high-density polyethylene (HDPE acronym).

Head loss (Pérdida de carga): is the variation in height of the hydraulic grade line, that is, it is equal to the change in the sum of pressure and elevation heads; it originates in the dissipation of energy caused by the friction of the fluid as it flows through a pipe, and is equivalent to the terms "head loss" or "pressure loss".

Service pressure (Presión de servicio): is the static pressure at the entrance of a piping system in its normal operating regime.

Dynamic pressure (Presión dinámica): corresponds to the kinetic energy term per unit volume.

Static pressure (Presión estática): is the value of the pressure in a piping system under zero flow conditions; it can be considered invariant in time.

Stub-out (Prevista): pipes and accessories that are normally placed on the main pipes of water supply or sewerage networks, for the purpose of being used for the sanitary installations of future users.

Probability of simultaneous use (Probabilidad de uso simultáneo): probability that a certain number of sanitary fixtures are used at the same time, at a given moment.

PVC: acronym for polyvinyl chloride.

- R - Supply branch (Ramal de alimentación): pipe that supplies water to a sanitary fixture or a group of them.

Discharge branches (Ramales de descarga): pipes that directly receive the effluents from sanitary fixtures.

Drainage branches (Ramales de desagüe): pipes that receive the effluents from the discharge branches (ramales de descarga).

Overflow (Rebalse): pipe or device intended to evacuate eventual excess water in storage tanks, sanitary fixtures, or other sanitary accessories.

Public main (Red pública): pipe of the distribution system of the public aqueduct or of the collection system for wastewater (aguas residuales) or stormwater (pluviales) of public entities.

Backflow (Reflujo): flow in the opposite direction to that intended for a pipe or sanitary fixture.

Access opening (Registro): opening for inspection or cleaning of tanks or pipe layouts.

- S - Water seal (hydraulic seal) (Sello de agua (sello hidráulico)): volume of water existing in the trap (sifón) of a sanitary fixture and that prevents the backflow (reflujo) of gases, odors, and the entry of animals from the discharge pipe into the fixture.

Separator (Separador): see interceptor.

Trap (Sifón): accessory whose function is to maintain the water seal (sello de agua) in the discharge of sanitary fixtures to prevent offensive odors from the sanitary network from entering the rooms of buildings.

Siphonage (Sifonaje): rupture or loss of the water seal (sello de agua) of the trap (sifón) of a sanitary fixture, as a result of the loss of the water contained in it due to the effect of positive or negative pressures in the drainage system.

Direct feed system (Sistema de alimentación directa): water supply to the consumption points of a building directly by the service pressure of the public main (red pública), when its minimum values are adequate to continuously satisfy the hydraulic requirements of the subscriber's installations.

Indirect feed system (Sistema de alimentación indirecta): water supply to consumption points that does not directly use the service pressure of the public main (red pública).

Single-stack drainage system (Sistema de bajante único de desagüe): single-pipe drainage system in which all or nearly all vent pipes are omitted.

Hydropneumatic system (Sistema hidroneumático): system that supplies water under certain pressure conditions to the distribution pipes, by means of an energy accumulator through air compression; it generally consists of a pump and a hydropneumatic tank (tanque hidroneumático).

Pre-charged hydropneumatic system (Sistema hidroneumático precargado): potable water system that has one or more pre-charged tanks, these being hermetic vessels that use a replaceable membrane or a diaphragm to store water under pressure. Said pressure is due to the fact that they have a pre-charge of compressed air inside that favors the transfer of water in conjunction with the pump or pumps, and helps to propel it when a demand arises.

Constant pressure system (Sistema de presión constante): system that supplies water under certain pressure conditions to the distribution pipes by means of a pumping system; it generally consists of an arrangement of pumps with a variable frequency drive and a pressure sensing system.

Reuse system (Sistema de reutilización): system that conveys water for reuse (aguas a reutilizar) within a building.

Floor drain (Sumidero): sanitary accessory, with or without a hydraulic seal (sello hidráulico), intended to receive wastewater (aguas residuales) or stormwater (pluviales) from the floor of a bathroom, patio, or roof.

- T - Collection tank (Tanque de captación): potable water reservoir from which the sanitary fixtures of buildings are supplied; it may be elevated or buried, depending on the space available for the building.

Elevated tank (Tanque elevado): collection tank (tanque de captación) for water storage located on the upper floors of a building or on a structure designed for that purpose.

Hydropneumatic tank (Tanque hidroneumático): reservoir in which water and air are stored under pressure.

Grease trap (Trampa de grasa): Device whose purpose is to separate wastewater (agua residual) from lighter substances that tend to float. In dwellings and residential buildings, they usually consist of rectangular tanks, constructed or prefabricated, whose outlet structure is submerged and is located on the opposite side to the influent, at a lower elevation to facilitate flotation. For grease retention devices for another type of activity or occupancy, see interceptor.

Pipe (Tubería): conduit of regular geometric section (generally circular) intended for the flow of a fluid.

Discharge pipe (Tubería de impulsión): that comprised between the discharge of pumping equipment and the entrance to an elevated tank (tanque elevado) or consumption point.

Distribution pipe (Tubería de distribución): pipe intended to carry water to all sanitary fixtures of a building.

Return pipe (Tubería de retorno): pipe that conveys water back to the production system, in a circuit with recirculation.

Suction pipe (Tubería de succión): that comprised between a collection tank (tanque de captación) and the inlet to pumping equipment.

Vent pipe (Tubería de ventilación): pipe with an outlet to the atmosphere intended to allow the entry of air into drainage systems and the exit of gases from those systems, with the objective of preventing the rupture of the water seal (sello de agua) of the sanitary traps (sifones sanitarios) and maintaining open-channel flow in the drains.

Auxiliary vent pipe (Tubo de ventilación auxiliar): vertical pipe that connects a drainage branch (ramal de desagüe) to the circuit vent (tubo ventilador del circuito) corresponding, or a pipe that connects the main vent (de ventilación principal) with the stack (bajante).

Circuit vent pipe (Tubo de ventilación en circuito): secondary vent pipe connected to a drainage branch (ramal de desagüe) and serving a group of fixtures without individual venting.

Individual vent pipe (Tubo de ventilación individual): secondary vent pipe connected to the trap (sifón) of the discharge pipe of a sanitary fixture.

Main vent pipe (Tubo de ventilación principal): vertical vent pipe into which individual vents are connected and which terminates in a vent extension above the building roof.

Secondary vent pipe (Tubo de ventilación secundario): vent pipe that has the upper end connected to a riser or another vent pipe, whether main or secondary.

Horizontal pipe (Tubería horizontal): for the purposes of these standards, it is any pipe or fitting installed in a position such that it forms an angle of less than 45° with the horizontal.

Vertical pipe (Tubería vertical): for the purposes of these standards, it is any pipe or fitting installed in a position such that it forms an angle of 45° or less with the vertical.

- U - Fixture units (Unidades de accesorios): empirical unit of flow rate chosen in such a way that the water demand of sanitary fixtures can be expressed as a multiple of this unit taken as a base; the fixture unit of a piece depends on the type of fixture, the duration of the flow (gasto), the interval between uses, and the probability of simultaneous use; its definition varies according to the different methods used in the calculation of potable water supply flow rates (caudales).

Discharge units (Unidades de descarga): empirical unit of flow rate similar to the previous one, where the discharges of sanitary fixtures can be expressed as multiples of this unit taken as a base.

Flexible coupling (Unión flexible): see flexible joint (junta flexible).

Urinal (Urinario): place intended for urinating and, especially, one arranged for the public.

- V - Vacuum (Vacío): any pressure less than the local atmospheric pressure.

Check valve (Válvula de retención): valve that prevents the circulation of flow in a direction contrary to that established, generally known as a non-return valve, backflow valve (válvula de contraflujo), or check valve.

Safety valve (Válvula de seguridad): device intended to prevent the pressure from rising above a determined limit, in accordance with the normal operating pressure; they are usually found in hot water, steam, and LP gas systems.

Vacuum breaker valve (Válvula interruptora de vacío): vacuum breaker (interruptor de vacío).

Pressure reducing valve (Válvula reductora de presión): hydraulically operated control valve that reduces high upstream pressure to a lower and constant downstream pressure, without being affected by fluctuations in demand or upstream pressure.

Artificial or mechanical ventilation (Ventilación artificial o mecánica): is the introduction of fresh, uncontaminated air into a given environment of a building, or the removal of vitiated air from the same, allowing the entry of fresh, uncontaminated air; for this, it uses mechanical means, such as supply or extraction fans or ventilation ducts.

Wet venting (Ventilación húmeda): is the method of venting traps (sifones) of sanitary fixtures using a drainage pipe (conducto de desagüe) of a sanitary fixture whose trap (sifón) is individually vented and is installed not less than 40 cm above the floor level.

GENERAL STANDARDS

Every building intended for human use or occupancy must be provided with a potable water supply system. This system must not affect at any time the degree of purity of the water intended for human consumption and must guarantee its supply (sufficient flow rate (caudal) and pressure) at all consumption points for its adequate functioning, as established in this Code.

Every building intended for human occupancy or habitation, located within an area served by a public water supply in a condition to provide service, must utilize said supply.

When the public supply is not in a condition to provide adequate service, whether due to quality, quantity, or continuity, alternate supply systems will be permitted, provided that the water source and its potabilization comply with the requirements established in this Code, as well as the requirements established by the corresponding sanitary authorities (autoridades sanitarias) and administrative authorities (autoridades administrativas). Attention must be paid to the amount of minerals present in the water supplied by the alternate system, since demineralized water or water with low mineral content is corrosive, as well as harmful to human and animal health.

Buildings may have a non-potable water supply or a water reuse system (sistema de reutilización de agua) for purposes other than human consumption, in a way that contributes to the reduction of potable water consumption and to the adequate management of this natural resource. When a non-potable water supply or a water reuse system (sistema de reutilización de agua) is to be used for purposes other than human consumption, the following conditions must at least be met: a) said supply must have separate networks, without any connection to the potable water system, b) all users of the building must be warned, by means of clearly marked and profusely distributed notices, about the lack of potability of said system, and c) the pipes must be distinguished using the respective colors in accordance with Article 3.9.

Every potable water supply and distribution system shall be protected against cross-connections (conexiones cruzadas).

Every building intended for human occupancy must have an independent system for the evacuation of wastewater (aguas residuales) and an independent system for the adequate conveyance and evacuation of stormwater (aguas pluviales), in accordance with the provisions of this Code, whether these are individual systems (collection and treatment) or systems administered by public entities, as appropriate. There shall be no cross-connections (conexiones cruzadas) between the wastewater (aguas residuales) and stormwater (aguas pluviales) evacuation systems.

The hydraulic and sanitary installation systems for wastewater (aguas residuales) drainage must be designed and constructed in such a way that they allow for rapid flow of waste, avoid obstructions, prevent the passage of gases, odors, and animals from the public main (red pública) into the interior of buildings, do not allow the escape of liquids or the formation of deposits inside the pipes, and prevent contamination of drinking water. No drain shall have any connection with the potable water system for any reason, nor with the storm drainage system (sistema de desagüe pluvial).

Sanitary vent pipes (tuberías de ventilación) must allow adequate evacuation of gases produced or entering the system and guarantee flow conditions at atmospheric pressure, to prevent the loss of hydraulic seals (sellos hidráulicos) and prevent the formation of gas pockets inside the drainage pipes.

The various piping systems of buildings must be identified in accordance with the official standard for the use of colors in safety and its established symbology, decree 12715-MEIC of June 15, 1981. For cases not covered by this standard, the standard INTE T2:2016 Color code for the identification of piping systems according to the fluid they convey must be used as a reference.

Industrial wastewater, hot condensates, corrosive substances, and materials that may cause damage or interfere with existing or planned treatment processes may not be discharged directly or indirectly into the sanitary sewer without a discharge authorization from the administrative entity of the sanitary sewer, and must comply with the discharge limits for sanitary sewers set forth in the Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales, decree No. 33601 and its amendments.

The discharge or release of stormwater, surface water, groundwater, or drainage water into the wastewater sewer is not permitted. The wastewater and stormwater systems of buildings shall be totally and completely independent.

Every building located within an area served by a sanitary sewer in a condition to provide service must discharge its wastewater into said sewer, except in the cases covered by articles 3.14 and 3.15. The interconnection of the building connection to the sanitary sewer shall be carried out under the authorization and supervision of the administrative authority of the sewer service.

When there is no sanitary sewer with the capacity to provide service to the building, the treatment and disposal of wastewater by means of individual systems shall be permitted, provided they comply with the standards established by the corresponding health authorities (Ministerio de Salud and AyA).

When the conveyance or discharge of wastewater or stormwater cannot be done by gravity, pumping of these must be carried out in accordance with the provisions of this Code. In the case of single-family domestic installations, the disposal of wastewater by means of domestic treatment systems shall be permitted.

In towns, suburban and rural areas, as well as workplaces where there is no sanitary sewer network or water service, excreta must be deposited in units for dry treatment, wet treatment, composting, or another satisfactory form, provided that the minimum requirements established in this Code and by the health authority are met.

The systems of hydraulic and sanitary installations shall be designed and executed taking into account the structural aspect of the building, avoiding any damage or reduction in the strength of walls, columns, beams, foundations, and any other structural element, as indicated by the Código Sísmico de Costa Rica.

The materials used in the installations of building drainage systems must comply with the requirements and specifications included in this Code.

The systems of hydraulic and sanitary installations covered by this Code must be planned and designed by professional persons registered with the Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica, who must follow the provisions of this Code.

The members of the Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica have the obligation to comply with the provisions, duties, and obligations established in this Code. Their non-compliance shall be sanctioned in accordance with the provisions of the Ley Orgánica del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica and its Code of Professional Ethics.

In the case of condominium buildings, the provisions of Law No. 7933, Ley Reguladora de la Propiedad en Condominio, and its regulations must be respected.

In the case of constructions where it is notified by the corresponding authority that it is necessary to maintain a level of runoff from the land, runoff shall be managed preferably through the use of green infrastructure, which must comply with the requirements of this Code and the criteria dictated by the institution responsible for the aqueduct.

The systems of hydraulic and sanitary installations shall be designed and executed taking into account human safety and fire protection, avoiding any impact or reduction of the protection of fire and smoke barriers in walls, columns, beams, ceilings, mezzanines, and any other passive protection element, as indicated by the Reglamento nacional de protección contra incendios of the Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica.

When a building changes its use, the responsible professional person shall make the necessary modifications so that the new use complies with the requirements established in this Code.

POTABLE WATER ALLOCATIONS

The minimum water allocations for domestic, commercial, industrial use, garden irrigation, and other purposes shall be calculated according to the provisions of Table 4.1 Minimum Daily Allocations.

Table 4.1 MINIMUM DAILY ALLOCATIONS

Table 4.1 MINIMUM DAILY ALLOCATIONS (continued)

Notes (1) According to measurements carried out in two national hospitals (Hospital México and Hospital Nacional de Niños). The allocation must be increased if the hospital has a laundry.

SANITARY FIXTURES 5.1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

The number and type of sanitary fixtures that must be installed in the bathrooms, utility rooms, lactation rooms, kitchens, and other rooms of a building shall be proportional to the number of persons served and according to the use for which they are intended, in accordance with what is required in this Code.

In all types of buildings, whether public or private, where there is public attendance or service, sanitary services must be provided with access facilities for use by older adults and comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation on the Equality of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities and with the Construction Regulations of the Instituto Nacional de Vivienda y Urbanismo.

In all types of buildings, whether public or private, breastfeeding spaces must, at a minimum, comply with the provisions of the Reglamento de condiciones para espacios de lactancia materna en los centros de trabajo, Executive Decree No. 44943-MTSS-S and its amendments.

In all types of buildings, whether public or private, where there is public attendance or service and children's or family assistance, diaper changing tables must be provided in the men's and women's restrooms, or adapted restrooms intended solely for their use and service must be provided. If the building has a single unisex sanitary fixture set or if it has family restrooms, this must have a diaper changing table. Alternatively, and safeguarding the privacy and safety of minors, diaper changing tables may be provided outside the restrooms, in which case they must be provided with, at a minimum, a sink for handwashing, as well as an adequate area for solid waste disposal. Diaper changing tables must have a minimum clear space below the equipment of 760×1220 mm (30×48 inches) and be installed at a maximum height of 865 mm (34 inches) when the table is open. Installation near a handwashing sink and a solid waste container is recommended, as well as being located in the common areas of the restroom, outside of movement routes. Placement of diaper changing tables inside any toilet compartment must be avoided, so as not to unnecessarily tie the equipment to the compartment. Placing changing tables in a family restroom is also a good practice.

In all types of buildings, whether public or private, where there is public attendance or service and children's or family assistance, child protection seats must be provided in the toilet compartments; these seats provide a safe and comfortable place for infants, generally with a maximum weight of up to 22.5 kg (50 lb). These seats shall be installed inside the toilet compartment to provide visual and physical access. They shall be installed at a height from the floor to the bottom of the seat in operative mode of not less than 380 mm (15 inches). During installation, the operability and reach of the equipment must be evaluated, both in active and inactive mode, and when the equipment is in use, it must be guaranteed that there is sufficient space to maneuver around the seated infant.

In commercial premises with a large public influx, such as shopping centers, supermarkets, department stores, bank branches, amusement parks or funfairs, museums and convention centers, religious temples, and higher education teaching centers, among others, there must be at least one breastfeeding room for public and discretionary use so that mothers can breastfeed or extract milk. This room shall be a space exclusively for this purpose and must have a free surface area of at least two square meters (2 m2), with adequate ventilation and lighting, preferably natural, as well as appropriate hygienic conditions, privacy, and security. At a minimum, the room must have a sink for handwashing. The total number of rooms per building and their dimensions must be in reasonable proportion to the total number of breastfeeding women expected in the building, based on the experience that not all mothers will use them simultaneously.

5.2 OF THE NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES PER TYPE OF BUILDING

Every single-family residence shall be equipped with at least one sanitary fixture set with a toilet, sink, and shower. The kitchen shall have a kitchen sink and, in a separate location, a laundry sink or basin for washing clothes. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the omission of the laundry sink shall be permitted in multiple single-family buildings with a single bedroom or single-room or studio type, provided that these fixtures are installed in a roofed area of the building, in a proportion of not less than one laundry sink for every three single-family buildings.

Buildings intended for commercial use or offices must be equipped, at a minimum, with sanitary services in the following form, type, and number:

a. In spaces for commercial use or offices with an area of up to one hundred fifty square meters (150 m2), or where the number of persons, counting employees and clients, is estimated to be less than fifteen (15), a cubicle for a unisex sanitary service equipped with a toilet and sink may be provided, for the indistinct use of employees and clients.

b. In spaces for commercial use or offices with an area greater than one hundred fifty square meters (150 m2), at least two sets of sanitary services shall be provided; one for men and the other for women, each equipped with the sanitary fixtures indicated in table 5.1. When using this table, the most critical situation must be used, and from 1101 square meters onwards, the number of persons in the commercial building shall govern. The application of Table 5.1 is mandatory for planning restroom sets for any commercial use other than that indicated in paragraph d of this article.

c. When planning to use common sanitary services for several businesses, offices, or floors, compliance with the specifications in point b of this article shall be required. Furthermore, when a building consists of several floors, at least one sanitary solution for men and another for women shall be provided on each served floor.

d. In commercial buildings with a large public influx, such as shopping centers, supermarkets, department stores, bank branches, amusement parks or funfairs, museums, and convention centers, among others, there shall be sanitary services for public use for both men and women, at least one on each floor and that complies with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 in accordance with what is indicated in Table 5.2. In this case, what is indicated in Table 5.1 shall be valid for the permanent staff of the business or office. When using this table, the most critical situation must be used, whether it is the one establishing the number of persons or the one imposed by the area of the business or office.

e. Up to 4 drinking fountains shall be installed on each floor occupied by persons at a rate of one per eighty (80) persons. From the fifth fountain onwards, there will be one (1) for every 400 additional persons. These fountains must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as being inspected and maintained regularly.

f. A utility sink for cleaning the equipment used in janitorial tasks must be installed on each floor.

Table 5.1 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES IN COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS AND OFFICES LARGER THAN 150 m2

Note: The area is estimated based on the number of persons, considering one person every 10 m2 and that the population is equally divided between men and women.

Table 5.2 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES FOR CUSTOMER USE

In industrial establishments, if the personnel exceeds ten persons, there shall be separate sanitary services for men and women, equipped with sanitary fixtures in accordance with the following:

a. Toilets shall be in a proportion of one for every twenty (20) men or fraction thereof, and one for every fifteen (15) women or fraction thereof present per work shift, when the total number of workers is less than one hundred (100). When the total number of workers exceeds this amount, one additional toilet must be installed for every twenty-five (25) men and one for every twenty (20) women or fraction thereof present per work shift.

b. Urinals shall be in a proportion of one for every thirty (30) men or fraction thereof working per shift.

c. Sinks shall be in a proportion of one for every ten (10) persons or fraction thereof working per shift, when the total number of persons is less than one hundred. When the number of persons is greater than one hundred (100), one additional sink must be installed for every fifteen (15) workers.

d. In those jobs that, due to their special nature, are dangerous, either because the workers are exposed to excessive heat or to skin contamination with poisonous, infectious, or irritating substances or dusts, showers must be provided in a proportion of one for every ten (10) workers, or fraction thereof, who stop work simultaneously.

e. In every industrial establishment, whether public or private, there must be at least one accessible sanitary service for use by men and another for use by women.

f. A utility sink for cleaning the equipment used in janitorial tasks must be installed on each floor.

If the personnel is composed of ten (10) persons or fewer, a sanitary room equipped with a urinal, a toilet, and a sink shall be provided. This sanitary room must comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation.

In case the number of workers is not specified, it shall be estimated based on the proportion of one worker of each sex for every thirty square meters (30 m2) of useful floor area of the building intended for industry.

In restaurants, dance halls, cafeterias, bars, and similar establishments with a service capacity of up to ten (10) persons simultaneously, they shall have at least one sanitary fixture set equipped with a toilet and a sink. When the capacity exceeds ten (10) persons, separate services for men and women shall be provided in accordance with Table 5.3. At least two (2) of these services shall comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation, one for men and another for women.

Table 5.3 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES IN RESTAURANTS, BARS, AND SIMILAR FOR CUSTOMER USE

For service personnel, sanitary services independent from those for the public shall be provided when the number of employees present exceeds six (6) persons. In such a case, sanitary services shall be provided in accordance with the stipulations of Table 5.1. When using this table, the most critical situation must be used, whether it is the one establishing the number of persons or the one imposed by the area of the establishment. At least one of these sanitary services shall comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation.

In food preparation areas, the adequate number of accessories must be installed, as indicated by the health authority (Ministerio de Salud).

Facilities for handwashing by employees must be provided in the kitchen.

In entertainment halls, such as cinemas, theaters, auditoriums, and similar, as well as in sports buildings, such as stadiums, arenas, racetracks, bullrings, and similar, restrooms for the public shall be provided, separated for men and women, as indicated in table 5.4. At a minimum, there must be two (2) restrooms, one for men and another for women, complying with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation.

Drinking fountains must be installed in the vestibules of each restroom, never inside the room, in accordance with the following proportions:

a. One fountain: 1-100 persons b. Two fountains: 101-300 persons c. Three fountains: 301-500 persons d. More than 500: add one for every 400 persons At least one of these fountains must comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation. These fountains must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as being inspected and maintained regularly.

Sanitary services shall also be provided for actors, players, and employees, according to article 5.2.2 and Table 5.1 (using the number of persons and not the area).

Table 5.4 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES IN ENTERTAINMENT HALLS, AUDITORIUMS, STADIUMS, TEMPLES, AND SIMILAR

In religious temples, sanitary services separated by sex must be provided, and the quantity of sanitary fixtures shall be in accordance with the following proportions:

a. Toilet: 1 for every 150 men / 75 women. b. Sink: 1 for every 300 men / 150 women. c. Urinal: 1 for every 75 men.

At a minimum, there must be two restrooms that comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation, one for men and another for women.

The sanitary services of service stations must comply with the provisions of the Reglamento para la regulación del sistema de almacenamiento y comercialización de hidrocarburos, decree No. 30131-MINAE-S and its amendments.

In service stations, at least three sanitary services must be provided. One of them shall be for the workers and two for public use, one for women and another for men. These services shall have, at a minimum, one toilet and one sink each, and one urinal in the men's. In addition, an accessible shower must be provided for the workers.

The sanitary services of service stations must comply with the provisions of the regulations issued for this type of facility by the competent national authority.

In educational centers, sanitary services separated for men and women shall be provided for the students; the quantity of accessories to be installed shall be in accordance with what is indicated in Table 5.5. At a minimum, there must be two restrooms that comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation on each floor, one for men and another for women.

In educational centers, restrooms shall be provided for teachers, professors, and other administrative employees. When the number of these officials is less than ten (10) persons, there shall be at least one sanitary service equipped with a sink and a toilet. This sanitary service must comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation. When the teaching staff exceeds ten (10) persons, the provisions of Table 5.6 shall apply. At least two of these services must comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation, one for men and another for women.

Table 5.5 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES IN EDUCATIONAL CENTERS FOR STUDENTS

Table 5.6 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES IN EDUCATIONAL CENTERS FOR TEACHERS

In student residences and similar, the following proportions shall be used: for men, one toilet for every ten (10) men, one sink and one shower for every eight (8) men, and one urinal for every fifteen (15); for women, one toilet and one shower for every eight (8) women, one sink for every ten (10) women.

Utility sinks must be provided on each floor of the institution for the cleaning of janitorial equipment.

In preschool centers and schools, the sanitary fixtures shall be of a design and dimensions suitable for use by schoolchildren and shall be installed at an appropriate height. The quantity of sanitary accessories may be selected from table 5.7.

Table 5.7 NUMBER OF SANITARY FIXTURES IN PRESCHOOL CENTERS

In preschool centers and schools, handwashing sinks must be installed so that their upper edge is not at a height greater than sixty-five centimeters (65 cm) from the finished floor level.

In hotels and similar establishments, when exclusive bathrooms are not available for each bedroom, the establishment must comply with the following:

a. One sink with cold water and a drain in each bedroom. b. One sanitary fixture set for every three bedrooms or for every five beds; they must comply with the accessibility criteria for physical environments established in Law 7600 and its regulation. c. One accessible and independent toilet for every three bedrooms or for every five beds and, in any case, at least one on each floor. d. The sanitary services must not be located more than forty meters (40.0m) from the farthest room horizontally. e. One accessible drinking fountain for every seventy-five (75) guests, with at least one on each floor, installed in the lobby; they must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as being inspected and maintained regularly. f. All hotels or similar establishments must have one service utility sink for every twenty bedrooms, with at least one on each floor.

The sanitary services intended for the public attending a hotel or similar establishment and those for the staff must be independent. The number of sanitary fixtures shall be estimated based on Table 5.2. At a minimum, there must be two accessible restrooms intended for the public, one for men and another for women.

In sports facilities and public restrooms, sanitary services for men and women shall be provided in accordance with the following:

a. Men: one toilet for every twenty (20) men, one washbasin for every fifteen (15) men; one shower for every five (5) men, and one urinal for every twenty-five (25) men. At least one sanitary fixture of each type must comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations.

b. Women: one toilet and one washbasin for every fifteen (15) women, and one shower for every five (5) women. At least one sanitary fixture of each type must comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations.

In swimming pools, for estimating the number of bathers, one person shall be considered for every one and a half square meters (1.5 m2) of liquid surface area of the pool.

At the access to each pool, at least one accessible shower shall be located for bathers to wash before entering it.

In sports facilities and public baths, drinking fountains may be installed outside the sanitary services, in a proportion of one for every seventy-five (75) persons. This fountain must comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations. Drinking fountains must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as be inspected and maintained regularly.

Every building under construction must have a potable water service for personnel hygiene, as well as an adequate system for excreta disposal, with a capacity proportional to the number of workers on the site. Provisional toilets or latrines shall be installed at a rate of one for every fifteen (15) workers.

Buildings intended for health facilities, indicated below, shall be provided with sanitary services and sanitary fixtures of the type and minimum number noted in each case. At a minimum, there must be two bathrooms that comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations on each floor, one for men and one for women.

In health centers where there are sanitary services for private use for each room, one toilet, one shower, and one hand-washing sink (lavamanos) shall be installed.

In centers where the rooms do not have a bathroom, or in general hospitalization wards and for the use of hospitalized patients, the following shall be provided:

a. Separate sanitary services for men and women, on each floor intended for hospitalization.

b. In each of the required sanitary services, at least one toilet, one washbasin, one urinal, and one shower shall be installed for every ten (10) patients, in addition to one service sink (pila de aseo) for every ten (10) patients.

c. Service sinks (piletas de aseo) shall be installed, 1 for every two hundred square meters of construction, in case more than one is required, and the distance between them must not exceed 50 meters.

In sanitary services for men, toilets may be replaced by urinals, but in such a proportion that the number of urinals is not greater than one-third of the total number of required toilets.

For the use of visitors and their companions, in waiting rooms, at least one sanitary battery for men and one for women shall be provided. In each of these, one toilet and one hand-washing sink shall be installed as a minimum. Additionally, one drinking fountain shall be installed on each level, located outside the sanitary services, which must comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations. This fountain must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as be inspected and maintained regularly.

The type and minimum number of sanitary fixtures that must be installed in rooms adjacent to operating rooms, maternity, morgues, and other services of the medical center shall correspond to the specific standards dictated in this regard by the competent sanitary authority.

For the use of resident staff, collaborators, and workers of the care center, additional, suitably located sanitary services shall be provided for both men and women, and in them, sanitary fixtures of the type and number indicated, at a minimum, in table 5.1 shall be installed. When using this table, the most critical situation shall be applied, whether it is the one established by the number of persons or the one imposed by the area of the establishment. At a minimum, there must be two bathrooms that comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations on each floor, one for men and one for women.

Each floor must have a service sink (pileta de aseo), at least one per floor and considering that one service sink shall be located for every 50 linear meters.

In each consulting room (consultorio), a sanitary battery with one hand-washing sink and one toilet shall be installed.

In the waiting rooms of the consulting rooms and for the use of patients' companions, an accessible sanitary battery for men and one for women shall be installed, and in each one, at least one hand-washing sink and one toilet shall be installed.

For the use of resident staff, collaborators, and workers of the care center, additional, suitably located sanitary services shall be provided for both men and women, and in them, sanitary fixtures of the type and number indicated, at a minimum, in table 5.1 shall be installed. When using this table, the most critical situation shall be applied, whether it is the one established by the number of persons or the one imposed by the area of the establishment.

Each single dental office shall provide a sanitary battery, which complies with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations, for the use of patients and their companions, in which at least one hand-washing sink and one toilet shall be installed.

In each dental office, at least one hand-washing sink directly accessible from the dental unit shall be installed.

Dental clinics where several dental offices operate simultaneously may be provided with common sanitary services, separated for men and for women. In each of these, at least one toilet and one hand-washing sink shall be installed. At a minimum, there must be two bathrooms that comply with the physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations on each floor, one for men and one for women.

In case there are individual cells, one toilet and one hand-washing sink shall be installed in each cell.

In case of common cells, the minimum number of accessories to install in the sanitary services must comply with the following:

. One toilet for every twenty (20) men.

. One urinal for every fifty (50) men.

. One toilet for every fifteen (15) women.

. One hand-washing sink shall be installed for every ten (10) persons deprived of liberty.

. One shower shall be installed for every fifty (50) persons deprived of liberty.

. One drinking fountain shall be installed on each floor, located outside the sanitary services; these fountains must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as be inspected and maintained regularly.

. One service sink (pila de servicio) shall be installed on each floor.

For the use of resident staff, collaborators, and workers, additional separate sanitary services for men and for women shall be provided, in accordance with what is established in Table 5.1. When using this table, the most critical situation shall be applied, whether it is the one established by the number of persons or the one imposed by the area of the establishment.

5.3 SPECIFICATIONS OF SANITARY FIXTURES

Sanitary fixtures must be constructed of hard, resistant, and impermeable materials. The surfaces of the fixtures must be smooth and lack interior or exterior defects.

In order to include practices regarding the rational use of natural resources, the use of accessories that handle lower flow rates than traditional accessories is recommended. Accessories may be identified by having an efficiency seal given by some world organization, for example, the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Sanitary fixtures must be installed so that they do not present cross-connections that could contaminate potable water.

To prevent cross-connections, the free space between the supply faucet spout and the overflow level in the sanitary fixtures must be in accordance with Table 5.8.

5.4 INSTALLATION OF SANITARY FIXTURES

In sanitary fixtures that have cold and hot water supply, cold water must be delivered on the right and hot water on the left, looking at the fixture from the front. In the case of a single control valve, the direction of rotation for hot or cold shall be applied according to the supplier's specifications.

Table 5.8 MINIMUM FREE SPACE TO PREVENT A CROSS-CONNECTION

Sanitary fixtures must be installed in adequate environments, providing the minimum spaces necessary for their proper use, cleaning, repair, inspection, and ventilation, as specified in section 5.3.

Accessories connected by means of a butt joint must have an access panel or a useful space of at least thirty centimeters (0.30 m) in its smallest dimension. Where practical, all pipes coming from the accessories must be near the walls.

Every sanitary fixture must be equipped with its corresponding siphon (sifón) for the water seal. The water seal must have a height of at least five centimeters (0.05 m) as a minimum. As far as possible, the siphons should be cleanout-accessible (registrables).

Toilets, bidets, and similar sanitary fixtures placed on the floor must be fixed with screws, bolts, or by some other system that allows their disassembly. They shall be installed on a suitable accessory (for example: flange and ring or wax seal). Wall-mounted sanitary fixtures shall be fixed by means of adequate supports so that no stress is transmitted to the pipes and connections.

The bolts or screws must be of a corrosion-resistant material.

Backflow. Supply pipes or sanitary accessories must be installed to prevent any backflow (reflujo).

Every sanitary fixture built on-site must be covered with a vitrified, impermeable material and with all interior and exterior edges rounded.

The installation of dry or chemical toilets in buildings for human use is not permitted.

Tank-type toilets must comply with the following requirements:

a. On the water inlet pipe to the tank, there shall be a shut-off valve.

b. The tanks must have sufficient capacity to ensure the complete cleaning of the fixture.

c. The activation mechanism must function in a way that avoids the loss or waste of water, replenishes the water seal of the fixture, and prevents cross-connections.

d. Tank-type toilets must have the capacity to discharge any overflow into themselves.

Semi-automatic valve toilets must comply with the following requirements:

a. Each toilet shall be equipped with its corresponding shut-off valve installed near it, in a place easily accessible for repair.

b. The semi-automatic valve must allow the passage of water at a sufficient flow rate and pressure, in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, to discharge and wash the toilet, and to replenish the water seal in each operation.

c. They may only be installed when it is assured that the minimum required pressure and flow rate will be maintained in the supply system.

d. The semi-automatic flush valve shall be adjustable, so that the flush volume and working pressure can be regulated.

e. The branch supply pipe for several toilets with a semi-automatic flush valve shall be equipped with a shock absorber to absorb the effects of water hammer (golpe de ariete).

The seats and lids of toilets shall be of impermeable, smooth, and easy-to-clean material. Toilets for public use shall be of the elongated type, and the seat shall have an open front.

In institutions such as kindergartens, preschools, and other similar places where sanitary fixtures will serve persons under seven years of age, the sanitary fixtures must have an adequate height for said persons. For toilets, the heights indicated in Table 5.9 are recommended.

Table 5.9 DIMENSIONS FOR TOILETS OPERATED BY PERSONS UNDER 7 YEARS OF AGE

To achieve proper functioning of toilets, the following recommendations must be followed:

a. Toilets must have a vent pipe, which aids in the free discharge of waste. This pipe must be at least thirty-eight millimeters (0.038 m) in diameter.

b. The vent pipe must be located at a distance of at least thirty-three centimeters (0.33 m) from the toilet outlet. In the event that it cannot be located near the toilet, it may be located at a distance of no more than three meters (3.0 m) from the toilet outlet.

c. In the case of floor-discharge toilets, the height between the toilet outlet and the discharge pipe must be such that it avoids turbulence at the time of discharge and, furthermore, allows the development of an adequate discharge velocity, which must not be very high, as it can cause siphonage. The distance between the center of the sanitary elbow (codo sanitario) and the finished floor level must be in the range of twenty-five to sixty centimeters (0.25 - 0.60 m).

d. The slope of the discharge pipe must be 1.5%, permitting a maximum variation of ±0.5%, in order to achieve correct transport of solids.

e. The materials necessary for correct assembly of the toilet are: the plastic flange, the anchor bolts, and the wax seal (empaque de cera). The use of cement to fix the bowl to the floor is not recommended.

f. A space of at least one centimeter (0.01 m) must be left between the toilet tank and the wall, so the correct location of the drain pipe with respect to the finished wall level is important, according to the distance indicated by manufacturers.

Urinals (mingitorios or urinarios) must comply with the following requirements:

a. Be provided with an adequate system that allows the washing of the sanitary fixture, which may be an automatic flush tank for one or more urinals, individual semi-automatic valves, or another system.

b. Urinals provided with semi-automatic valves must comply with the same specifications as flushometer toilets.

c. If urinals that function without water are used, they must be provided with the appropriate means to prevent the entry of gases into the bathroom where they are located, resulting from the chemical process to which they are subjected. This type of urinal must have the proper trap, either by seal or by hydraulic operation of the outlet devices, which can be achieved with the application of oils, special gels, and by using diaphragms or devices made of latex or other similar materials.

Spaces intended for showers must comply with the following requirements:

a. They shall be located in such a way that the water falls onto a free area.

b. The floor must be of impermeable and non-slip material when dry and wet, with a minimum slope of two percent (2%) and a maximum of four percent (4%) towards the drain. A small wall or step that prevents the runoff of water to other parts of the bathroom may be placed. The dam or step shall be no less than five centimeters (0.05 m) and no greater than twenty-three centimeters (0.23 m). In the event that a wall or step is not used with the aim of facilitating accessibility, the floor or the shower tray must be flush with the surrounding bathroom floor, and the slope of the inclined planes formed to facilitate drainage shall be 2%.

c. The drain shall be equipped with a siphon (sifón) and provided with a removable grate made of stainless material. The holes in the grate must be such that they allow for the rapid evacuation of the service flow rate of each shower, without accumulating water. It is recommended that the grate diameter should not be less than fifty millimeters (0.05 m).

d. The floors of showers for public use shall have the slope arranged in such a way that the wastewater from each shower does not pass through areas intended for other bathers.

e. All edges on the floor and corners of walls shall be rounded.

f. The walls shall be finished with impermeable material up to a minimum height of one and a half meters (1.5 m).

g. Bathtubs of the built-in or semi-built-in type must have a watertight joint between the wall and the sanitary fixture.

h. The overflow of bathtubs must be connected to the drain pipe to prevent water accumulation.

Service sinks for washing clothes (pilas para lavar ropa), kitchen sinks (fregaderos), and hand-washing sinks (lavamanos) must be provided with adequate devices that prevent the passage of solids to the drainage system, and their siphon (sifón) must be easily cleanout-accessible (registrable) for cleaning.

The minimum capacity and dimensions of the hand-washing sink (lavamanos) shall be: length thirty-three centimeters (0.033 m), width twenty-three centimeters (0.023 m), depth thirteen centimeters (0.013 m), and must be in accordance with the proposed use at the discretion of the competent sanitary authority.

Floor drains (sumideros de piso) must comply with the following requirements:

a. The corresponding water seal (sifón) shall have a minimum height of seven and a half centimeters (0.075 m).

b. They shall be provided with removable, perforated, or slotted covers. The free area of the cover shall be at least 66% of the area of the corresponding discharge pipe. The dimensions of the cover and its discharge pipe shall be such that they ensure the proper functioning of the device.

Floor drains must be installed in the following places:

a. In sanitary services that have two or more toilets, or one urinal and one toilet, except in single-family dwellings. The floor must have a minimum slope of 0.5% towards the floor drain.

b. Commercial kitchens.

c. In washing rooms of commercial buildings or in common washing areas in multi-family buildings.

d. In food storage areas, such as storage rooms, accessible cold-storage rooms, and the like; these drains must be indirect; a separate drain shall leave each area and be connected indirectly to the sanitary drain of the building.

In the case of special accessories, such as ornamental ponds, aquariums, swimming pools, ornamental fountains, commercial water dispensers, and similar constructions, they must be protected against backflow (reflujo) (one-way valves), in the event that they are fed directly from the potable water system.

Accessories provided with overflow devices must comply with these requirements:

a. The overflow capacity must be sufficient to discharge the maximum supply flow rate of the fixture.

b. The overflow device must be such that water does not remain stagnant in it.

c. The overflow shall drain between the discharge orifice and the siphon (sifón) of the corresponding sanitary fixture. In the case of overflow pipes from toilet and urinal tanks, they may discharge into the respective toilet or urinal.

Drinking fountains with or without self-cooling shall be of specific design for the intended use and must comply with the following requirements:

a. Be provided with means to regulate the discharge pressure.

b. Have a self-closing valve operated manually or by foot.

c. The jet outlet orifice must be protected, so as to prevent direct contact with the lips.

d. The jet outlet angle must be inclined between 60 and 45 degrees approximately.

e. The physical environment accessibility criteria established in Ley 7600 and its regulations.

Drinking fountains may not be installed inside bathrooms and areas of bacterial contamination (garbage dumps, septic tanks, etc.). They must be disinfected daily to reduce the possibility of bacterial contamination, as well as be inspected and maintained regularly.

When it is desired to install a bidet in a privately-used sanitary battery, the following requirements must be complied with:

a. The valves and other supply connections of the sanitary fixture must allow the passage of water at an adequate flow rate, to wash the entire interior surface of the fixture, drain the wastewater, and replenish the water seal in each operation.

b. The design of the fixture must guarantee the washing of the entirety of its interior surface after each operation.

c. The bidet may be replaced by a manually operated shower. The shower shall be installed near the toilet, equipped with shut-off valves and a flexible hose, and provided with holding and fastening pieces to prevent it from remaining on the floor, and shall be located no less than 30 centimeters above the overflow level of the toilet.

d. It must have a siphon or water trap (sifón o trampa de agua).

e. Its effluent must be connected to the sanitary sewer network (red de aguas sanitarias servidas).

5.5 SPECIFICATIONS OF BATHROOMS

All sanitary fixtures and their accessories must be installed maintaining their correct spacing and allowing their access and adequate use. Figure 5.1 and 5.1.1 indicate the suggested minimum dimensions for the installation of sanitary fixtures.

In all sanitary services for public use, floor drains shall be provided to facilitate their adequate sanitation.

The minimum area of bathrooms in single-family and multi-family dwellings (including one washbasin (lavatorio), one toilet, and one shower) shall be two and a half square meters (2.5 m2) in area and one meter (1.0 m) in width.

For the height of the bathroom, the provisions established in the Reglamento de Construcciones of the Instituto Nacional de Vivienda must be followed, according to the type of building.

Bathrooms must have lighting and ventilation by means of windows, skylights (linternillas), or transom lights (tragaluces), which shall open directly onto courtyards or public space. Ventilation by mechanical means may also be provided, provided that the standards of the competent sanitary authority are complied with.

The requirements of bathrooms regarding lighting, natural ventilation, dimensions of doors and windows, and other architectural details must comply with the requirements of the Reglamento de Construcciones of the Instituto Nacional de Vivienda y Urbanismo.

To the extent possible, natural ventilation systems must be promoted; if this is not possible, sanitary services may be artificially ventilated and must comply with the provisions of this Code, in accordance with what is indicated in Table 5.10.

Every artificial or mechanical ventilation system shall be based on the injection of fresh, uncontaminated air into the interior of the bathroom of a building and shall allow the exit of stale air to the outside; or, on extracting stale air while allowing the entry of a quantity of fresh, uncontaminated air from the outside.

For any ventilation system to be developed, the fresh and uncontaminated air intakes must be made directly from the outside of the corresponding building.

The velocity of air introduced into enclosures for artificial ventilation purposes must be chosen in such a way that the noise level index does not exceed 40 dB. For this, the selection must be made according to the ventilation grille manufacturer's specification.

The stale air from any artificial or mechanical ventilation system must be discharged directly to the outside of the building and in such a way that it cannot return, nor affect neighboring buildings in any way.

The number of air changes per hour necessary for the artificial ventilation of a sanitary battery shall be determined according to the type of building and its use, in accordance with what is noted in Table 5.10.

Table 5.10 MINIMUM NUMBER OF AIR CHANGES PER HOUR

Sanitary services in buildings up to three stories in height may be artificially ventilated by extraction, by means of individual fans installed in each bathroom, provided with backdraft dampers (compuertas con contraflujo) and connected to ducts intended exclusively for bathroom ventilation.

The ducts referred to in the preceding article must have sufficient cross-section so that, if all the fans are operating, the air velocity in the duct is not greater than five meters per second (5 m/s).

The sanitary services of buildings of any number of stories may be artificially ventilated by extracting air from them through a fan installed at the highest part of a vertical ventilation duct, intended exclusively for this purpose and common to all sanitary services. The design stack height must be considered with respect to the volume handled and taking into account the characteristics of the surrounding buildings.

Extraction grilles must be equipped with individual regulation mechanisms, in order to allow for regulation of the amount of air to be extracted from each bathroom.

The access doors of sanitary services artificially ventilated in accordance with what is specified in the preceding articles must be provided with an opening or other system that allows the entry of fresh air. The minimum area of this opening shall be estimated with the following equation:

Where, Q: flow rate of air extracted from the bathroom (m3/s) V: velocity of air entering through the grille.

For businesses and offices, this has a range of seventy to one hundred centimeters per second (0.7-1.0 m/s). For industrial buildings, the range is two hundred fifty to four hundred centimeters per second (2.5-4.0 m/s).

COLD WATER AND HOT WATER SYSTEMS 6.1 GENERAL STANDARDS

The execution of the domestic connection (conexión domiciliaria) shall be in charge of the administrative authority of the potable water service.

The potable water distribution system of buildings must be designed according to the conditions under which the public water supply will provide service.

The basic symbology to be used in sanitary and hydraulic installation plans shall be that indicated in figure 6.1.

Unpermitted connections:

a. Direct connections between the public network pipes and pumps or other mechanical pressure elevation devices are not permitted.

b. The potable water distribution system in a building must not be connected, directly or indirectly, to any non-potable water system.

c. Making direct or indirect connections between the public water supply and a private or emergency supply is strictly prohibited.

The water supply and distribution system shall be equipped with valves adequate for the existing pressure, as shown in figures 6.2 and 6.3, and at a minimum at the following points:

a. One on each connection to the public service after the corresponding meter.

b. One on each floor, one for each independent section in apartment buildings or offices, or for each floor section that does not have horizontal communication.

c. One in each collective or public bathroom, in public or commercial office buildings.

To prevent possible water backflows, it is advisable to install a check valve after the meter. Additionally, check valves must be installed at the points indicated in figure 6.2.

When the public water supply guarantees continuous service at a sufficient pressure and flow rate, the distribution system may be served directly from the public network, as shown in figure 6.2a.

When the public water supply does not guarantee continuous service, one of the following indirect systems shall be used:

a. Elevated tank (figures 6.2b and 6.3a) b. Collection tank, pumping equipment, and hydropneumatic tank (figures 6.2e and 6.3d) c. Cistern, pumping equipment, and elevated tank (figures 6.2c, 6.3b, 6.3c, 6.3e, and 6.3f)

When the public water supply does not guarantee sufficient pressure, the building's distribution system must use one of the systems stipulated in subsections b and c of the preceding article.

In high-rise buildings, the distribution system must be designed in groups of floors, so that they do not exceed the pressures established in section 6.3.1 (see figure 6.3).

6.2 MATERIALS FOR PIPES, VALVES, AND FITTINGS

In works for water supply and distribution, pipes and fittings of the following materials or others available on the market must be used:

a. PVC (Polyvinyl chloride).

b. Stainless steel.

c. Galvanized iron.

d. Copper.

e. High-density polyethylene.

f. CPVC (Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride).

g. Polypropylene.

h. Black iron.

Indications:

. CPVC pipes can be used for both cold and hot water distribution.

. In copper pipes, the use of type K, L, or M pipe is permitted. Type M pipe can be used for water distribution if the pipe is located above the floor or above the building, or buried in a site without any structure. The responsible professional must use the type of copper deemed appropriate according to their judgment.

. Valves of a size less than or equal to 51 mm (2 in.) must be made of bronze or another approved material. For sizes larger than 51 mm, the valve body must be made of cast iron or bronze.

. The connection pieces to be used should preferably be of the same material as the pipes they join and have compatible characteristics.

. The connection between pipes of different materials and between which no galvanic action occurs shall be made directly or by using suitable adapter or converter connection pieces.

. The corresponding joints may be welded, electrofused, thermofused, threaded, press-fit, flanged, or mechanical, or a combination thereof, depending in each case on the types of pipes to be joined and their characteristics.

. Pipe joints must be in accordance with their class; they may be of the following types: spigot and socket, flanged, threaded, welded, and connected by means of rubber rings, mechanical, and compression.

. When it is desired to use pipes of materials other than those specified in this section, it may be done in accordance with the technical analysis performed by the professional responsible for the design or the professional responsible for the execution of the work. The objections of the health authority or other State institutions that must inspect the project must be taken into account.

Pipes must meet the following general requirements:

a. Homogeneous material.

b. Circular cross-section of standardized dimensions.

c. Uniform wall thickness.

d. Dimensions, weights, and thicknesses in accordance with the specifications corresponding to the respective operating conditions.

e. Free from defects such as cracks, dents, and deformations.

For all types of pipes, connections, and fittings, with the exception of those manufactured from PVC and CPVC, as long as national industrial technical standards are not in force, they shall be considered of satisfactory quality if they comply with the most recent specifications of qualified entities, such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the American Water Works Association (AWWA), or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

In the case of PVC and CPVC pipes, the pipes and their fittings must comply with the following standards:

ASTM D - 2241 for potable water pipes.

ASTM D - 1785 for potable water pipes.

ASTM D - 2466 fittings for potable water pipes.

ASTM D - 2464 fittings for potable water pipes.

ASTM D - 2846 for CPVC pipes and fittings for hot water (DWG).

ASTM D- 3350 for polyethylene (PE) pipes and fittings.

6.3 STANDARDS FOR SIZING DISTRIBUTION PIPES

The minimum pressure at the nodes of the distribution system must allow the proper functioning of the corresponding sanitary fixtures. Table 6.1 indicates the recommended minimum pressures for the operation of various sanitary fixtures. In no case shall the pressure at the inlet of the sanitary fixtures be less than two meters of water column (2 mca). If the maximum pressure at the supply points of the sanitary fixtures is greater than forty meters of water column (40 mca), the system must be divided into pressure zones, or pressure-reducing valves must be installed.

The service pressure after the meter must be greater than ten meters of water column (10 mca).

For the sizing of potable water distribution pipes, the maximum velocities must not exceed the following limits: 3 m/s for cold water and 2.4 m/s for hot water. For copper pipes and copper alloys, the maximum velocities must not exceed the following limits: 2.4 m/s for cold water, 1.5 m/s for hot water in supply pipes, and 0.6 m/s in hot water return pipes.

To avoid excessive pressure losses, it is recommended to maintain the maximum velocities according to what is established in the preceding article by means of the expression:

𝑉 = 10?𝐷 Where: V is the velocity in meters per second and D0.5 is the square root of the internal diameter of the pipe in meters. Table 6.2 indicates the recommended maximum velocities and flow rates in accordance with the above criteria, for galvanized iron, CPVC, and PVC pipes.

Table 6.1 DIAMETERS, PRESSURES, AND MINIMUM FLOW RATES REQUIRED

Notes:

(1) Minimum internal diameter of supply pipe. In the case of toilets and lavatories, this diameter is for the branch supply line up to the shut-off valve.

(2) Minimum pressure at the fixture inlet in meters of water column (or head).

(3) The minimum pressure depends on the type of semi-automatic valve.

(4) Flow rates based on fixture units. These flow rates are for sizing both pipes that carry only cold water and those that carry cold water and the flow rate that must be heated. In the case of fixtures with independent supply for cold water and hot water, it may be assumed that three-quarters of the flow rates described in this table will circulate through each one.

Table 6.2 RECOMMENDED MAXIMUM VELOCITIES | Nominal diameter (mm) | Maximum Velocity (m / s) | Maximum Flow Rate (Liters / s) | Hydraulic Gradient (3) (mca/m) | | | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | PVC (1) | H.G (2) | CPVC | PVC | H.G | CPVC | PVC | H.G | | 12 | 1.34 | 1.30 | | 0.35 | 0.30 | | 0.138 | 0.173 | | 18 | 1.53 | 1.47 | 1.11 | 0.67 | 0.55 | 0.13 | 0.130 | 0.163 | | 25 | 1.71 | 1.67 | 1.35 | 1.17 | 1.04 | 0.35 | 0.123 | 0.153 | | 32 | 1.92 | 1.91 | | 2.09 | 2.04 | | 0.116 | 0.143 | | 38 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | 2.85 | 2.80 | | 0.106 | 0.132 | | 50 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | 4.45 | 4.58 | | 0.082 | 0.099 | | 62 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | 6.52 | 6.29 | | 0.065 | 0.082 | | 75 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | 9.66 | 10.48 | | 0.052 | 0.061 | | 100 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | 15.97 | 17.65 | | 0.039 | 0.045 | Note:

(1) Estimated for SDR 17 pipe (SDR 13.5 for 12 mm).

(2) Galvanized iron.

(3) Pressure loss per unit length of pipe estimated according to section 6.3.4.a).

The design flow rate for distribution pipes shall be calculated according to the Hunter method.

This method, based on the calculation of probabilities of simultaneous use and on empirical observations, assigns weights to each type of intermittently operating sanitary fixture. Such weights consider, for that fixture, the required flow rate, its duration, and its usual frequency of operation. This is quantified by the so-called water supply fixture units (u.a). Such units have been selected so that the total flow rate of a system or subsystem with different classes of fixtures and their service conditions can be approximated as a multiple of that factor.

Table 6.1 indicates the fixture units for different sanitary fixtures, under different service conditions. In the event that the fixture is not listed in that table, Table 6.3 may be used.

The maximum probable flow rate in a supply branch is a function of the sum of the fixture units of all fixtures served by that branch. The relationship between the total fixture units and the maximum probable flow rate is formally described by the equations in Table 6.4, but can be found according to Table 6.5 or the graph in Figure 6.4.

Table 6.3 FIXTURE UNITS FOR SANITARY FIXTURES ACCORDING TO THE DIAMETER OF THEIR SUPPLY ORIFICE

Table 6.4 EQUATIONS FOR CALCULATING DEMAND (L/s) FROM FIXTURE UNITS

Note:

The equations were obtained from the tabulation of data taken from the "Uniform Plumbing Code" (UPC) of the Venezuelan Code.

When a system does not supply any toilet, the corresponding flow rate is obtained using the equations or values corresponding to a system where toilets with wash tanks predominate.

For the estimation of the flow rate in any water supply pipe in a building, any load from any other systems must be added to the flow rate of the fixtures, such as sprinklers from the fire protection system (residential case), air conditioning system requirements, hot water or steam generators, irrigation systems, among others.

Table 6.5 PROBABLE FLOW RATE AS A FUNCTION OF FIXTURE UNITS (u.a.)

| u.a | Systems with wash tanks (L/s) | Systems with flushometers (L/s) | u.a | Systems with wash tanks (L/s) | Systems with flushometers (L/s) | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 6 | 0.43 | 1.39 | 225 | 4.51 | 6.01 | | | 8 | 0.52 | 1.56 | 250 | 4.84 | 6.29 | | | 10 | 0.61 | 1.71 | 275 | 5.16 | 6.56 | | | 12 | 0.69 | 1.84 | 300 | 5.49 | 6.84 | | | 14 | 0.76 | 1.95 | 350 | 6.12 | 7.38 | | | 16 | 0.83 | 2.06 | 400 | 6.74 | 7.91 | | | 18 | 0.90 | 2.16 | 450 | 7.34 | 8.42 | | | 20 | 0.96 | 2.25 | 500 | 7.93 | 8.93 | | | 25 | 1.12 | 2.46 | 700 | 10.15 | 10.86 | | | 30 | 1.27 | 2.65 | 900 | 12.15 | 12.61 | | | 35 | 1.40 | 2.82 | 1000 | 13.06 | 13.42 | | | 40 | 1.53 | 2.97 | 1200 | 14.71 | 14.91 | | | 45 | 1.66 | 3.12 | 1500 | 16.98 | | | | 50 | 1.78 | 3.25 | 1750 | 18.84 | | | | 60 | 2.01 | 3.50 | 2000 | 20.62 | | | | 70 | 2.23 | 3.72 | 2500 | 23.98 | | | | 80 | 2.44 | 3.92 | 3000 | 27.12 | | | | 90 | 2.64 | 4.11 | 4000 | 32.94 | | | | 100 | 2.81 | 4.29 | 5000 | 38.31 | | | | 120 | 3.09 | 4.62 | 6000 | 43.33 | | | | 140 | 3.36 | 4.91 | 7000 | 48.09 | | | | 160 | 3.64 | 5.27 | 8000 | 52.63 | | | | 180 | 3.91 | 5.50 | 9000 | 57.00 | | | | 200 | 4.18 | 5.72 | 10000 | 61.20 | | |

For the calculation of pressure losses caused by friction in distribution pipes and supply branches, the use of the Darcy-Weisbach formula is recommended, given that it presents the greatest accuracy for calculating pressure losses in pipes. However, the professional responsible for design may use other formulations accepted by the good practices of the profession. The Darcy-Weisbach method is expressed as follows:

Where, D = internal diameter of the pipe (m) f = friction factor g = acceleration due to gravity (m/s2) hf = energy losses (m) L = length of the pipe (m) V = fluid velocity in the pipe (m/s) For pressurized water systems, the following arrangement of the Darcy equation can be used:

Where, Q = flow rate in the pipe (L/s) D = internal diameter of the pipe (mm) hf = energy losses (m) L = length of the pipe (m) g = acceleration due to gravity (m/s2) The friction coefficient f is calculated from the Colebrook-White formula, or its graphic equivalent, the Moody diagram. The Haaland equation, shown below, is explicit and approximates the Colebrook White equation, with an error of less than 2% in calculating the friction factor.

Where, Re = Reynolds number in the conduit 𝛖 = kinematic viscosity of the fluid D = internal diameter of the pipe in mm 𝜺 = roughness of the pipe in mm (See Table 6.6) The above equation is valid under the following conditions:

. 4000 < Re < 1x108 . 1x10-6 < 𝜀/𝐷 < 0.05 For smooth pipes, the use of the Blasius equation is recommended:

Table 6.6 ABSOLUTE ROUGHNESSES FOR THE COLEBROOK-WHITE FORMULA

According to the designer's criterion, the Hazen-Williams formula may also be used for calculating pressure drop in pipes due to friction:

Where:

hf = pressure loss due to friction in meters (m) Q = flow rate in m3/s.

L = distance between analysis sections 1 and 2 in meters (m) CHW = Hazen-Williams Coefficient.

D = internal diameter in meters The CHW factors to be used in the formula are found in Table 6.7.

Localized losses or minor losses caused by changes of direction, valves, reductions, flow meters, and other fittings must be considered. Table 6.8 and figure 6.5 contain the local loss coefficients necessary to estimate losses in meters of water column.

Table 6.7 CHW FACTORS FOR THE HAZEN-WILLIAMS FORMULA

6.4 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR POTABLE WATER INSTALLATIONS

In buildings of three or more floors, the cold water and hot water pipes in vertical sections shall be placed in ducts provided for that purpose, the size of which must be sufficient for their convenient installation, inspection, repair, and removal.

Between cold water and hot water pipes installed in the same duct, there must be a minimum separation of ten centimeters (0.10 m) from edge to edge, unless they are protected with a suitable insulating material.

The placement in the same vertical duct of wastewater downspouts, stormwater downspouts, and the cold or hot water supply or distribution pipe shall be permitted, provided there is a minimum separation of twenty centimeters (0.20 m) from edge to edge between them.

Table 6.8 RESISTANCE COEFFICIENTS (K) IN VALVES AND FITTINGS | Fitting | Nominal diameter (mm) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 12 | 18 | 25 | 32 | 38 | 50 | 62 | 75 | 100 | 150 | 200 | 250 | 300 | 350 | | | Coefficient K | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Threaded 90º elbow | 2.10 | 1.69 | 1.44 | 1.28 | 1.16 | 0.99 | 0.88 | 0.79 | 0.66 | 0.55 | - | - | - | - | | Threaded 90º elbow (L.R.) | 1.29 | 0.92 | 0.73 | 0.61 | 0.52 | 0.41 | 0.35 | 0.30 | 0.23 | 0.17 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged 90º elbow | - | - | 0.43 | 0.41 | 0.39 | 0.38 | 0.35 | 0.33 | 0.31 | 0.28 | 0.26 | 0.25 | 0.24 | 0.23 | | Flanged 90º elbow (L.R) | - | - | 0.41 | 0.37 | 0.34 | 0.30 | 0.26 | 0.24 | 0.21 | 0.17 | 0.15 | 0.13 | 0.12 | 0.11 | | Threaded 45º elbow | 0.37 | 0.35 | 0.34 | 0.33 | 0.32 | 0.31 | 0.30 | 0.29 | 0.28 | 0.26 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged 45º elbow | - | - | 0.25 | 0.24 | 0.22 | 0.20 | 0.19 | 0.17 | 0.16 | 0.14 | 0.12 | 0.11 | 0.11 | 0.10 | | Threaded 180º elbow | 2.10 | 1.69 | 1.45 | 1.29 | 1.17 | 1.00 | 0.89 | 0.80 | 0.69 | 0.56 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged 180º elbow | - | - | 0.42 | 0.40 | 0.38 | 0.35 | 0.33 | 0.32 | 0.30 | 0.27 | 0.25 | 0.24 | 0.23 | 0.22 | | Threaded Tee (F.L) | 0.93 | 0.93 | 0.91 | 0.93 | 0.93 | 0.93 | 0.93 | 0.93 | 0.93 | 0.93 | - | - | - | - | | Threaded Tee (F.T) | 2.69 | 2.49 | 2.23 | 2.05 | 1.92 | 1.72 | 1.58 | 1.46 | 1.33 | 1.14 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged Tee (F.L) | - | - | 0.26 | 0.23 | 0.21 | 0.19 | 0.17 | 0.16 | 0.14 | 0.12 | 0.10 | 0.09 | 0.08 | 0.08 | | Flanged Tee (F.T) | - | - | 0.96 | 0.92 | 0.88 | 0.81 | 0.77 | 0.73 | 0.67 | 0.60 | 0.56 | 0.53 | 0.50 | 0.48 | | Threaded globe valve (O) | 13.09 | 10.67 | 9.23 | 8.25 | 7.52 | 6.50 | 5.61 | 5.30 | 4.59 | 3.74 | - | - | - | -_ | | Flanged globe valve (O) | - | - | 12.40 | 11.14 | 10.20 | 6.89 | 7.96 | 7.31 | 6.37 | 5.24 | 4.56 | 4.10 | 3.76 | 3.49 | | Threaded gate valve (O) | 0.34 | 0.26 | 0.21 | 0.18 | 0.16 | 0.13 | 0.11 | 0.10 | 0.08 | 0.60 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged gate valve (O) | - | - | 0.74 | 0.58 | 0.47 | 0.34 | 0.27 | 0.22 | 0.16 | 0.10 | 0.08 | 0.06 | 0.05 | 0.04 | | Threaded check valve | 7.11 | 6.84 | 6.08 | 4.56 | 4.17 | 3.63 | 3.25 | 2.98 | 2.59 | 2.13 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged check valve | - | - | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | Threaded angle valve | 9.72 | 6.23 | 4.54 | 3.55 | 2.91 | 2.12 | 1.66 | 1.36 | 0.99 | 0.83 | - | - | - | - | | Flanged angle valve | - | - | 3.84 | 3.43 | 3.13 | 2.71 | 2.42 | 2.21 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | 2.00 | | Foot valve with strainer | - | - | 2.75 | 2.46 | 2.25 | 1.95 | 1.75 | 1.60 | 1.39 | 1.14 | 0.99 | 0.88 | 0.81 | 0.75 | | Couplings or Unions | 0.12 | 0.09 | 0.06 | 0.07 | 0.08 | 0.05 | 0.06 | 0.04 | 0.03 | 0.03 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.01 |

It is recommended that horizontal water supply pipes (both cold and hot) be installed with a slope towards the corresponding vertical supply pipe. Whenever possible, purge valves shall be placed at the low points of the horizontal pipes on the ground floor. If the building has a basement, purge valves must be placed at the lowest points of the horizontal pipes.

To mitigate overpressures that may be caused by water hammer, the installation of air chambers or special fittings for this purpose is recommended. Air chambers consist of vertical extensions with blind ends of the supply pipe for lavatories, sinks, showers, and bathtubs. These extensions shall have a diameter equal to or greater than that of the supply pipe and their length shall be sixty centimeters (0.60 m). Air chambers may cease to function over time, so their use is not recommended in places where a water disconnection cannot be performed to replenish the air. The professional in charge of the design, if deemed necessary, may establish the use of mechanical devices that mitigate the overpressure effect instead of air chambers.

Any pipe passage through structural elements must be analyzed, both in the design stage and in the execution stage, by a professional with knowledge in structures.

Additionally, all pipes must pass through structural elements in such a way as to prevent gases from transferring from one room or space to another, as established by the regulations of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Horizontal and vertical hanging pipes shall be supported by clamps that will be fixed to the ceiling or wall by means of suspension devices made of resistant material.

The spacing between supports shall be determined according to the mechanical resistance of the pipes, but shall not be greater than the values given in table 6.9.

In the selection of the clamp material, the prevention of galvanic corrosion must be considered.

Pipes that cross expansion joints in buildings must be provided, at crossing points, with flexible connections or expansion joints. Similarly, those that may be subject to vibrations shall be protected by flexible joints at the connection with mechanical equipment.

The dimensions of the clamps and suspension devices must guarantee the structural requirements regarding support, stability, and stresses caused in the pipe, and may be selected according to Table 6.10. The supports, their spacing, and the type of clamp to which the pipes are fixed must be verified with the load generated by the full pipe.

Table 6.9 MAXIMUM SPACING BETWEEN SUPPORTS FOR HANGING PIPES

Note:

(1) Pipe expansion must be allowed every 9.1 m.

Table 6.10 CLAMP DIMENSIONS | Pipe Diameter (mm) | Clamp Thickness (mm) | Clamp Width (mm) | Rod Diameter (mm) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 12 to 50 | 6.35 (1/4") | 38 | 9.53 (3/8") | | 50 to 75 | 6.35 (1/4") | 51 | 12.7 (1/2") | | 75 to 100 | 9.53 (3/8") | 51 | 15.9 (5/8") | | 100 to 200 | 9.53 (3/8") | 76 | 19.1 (3/4") | | 200 to 300 | 9.53 (3/8") | 89 | 22.2 (7/8") |

When potable water distribution pipes are buried, they must be kept as far away as possible from wastewater drains, and must be separated from these by a minimum distance of one meter (1.0 m) in plan and twenty-five centimeters (0.25 m) above. When water pipes cross drains, they must always be placed above them and at a vertical distance of no less than twenty-five centimeters (0.25 m).

Buried pipes must be placed in excavated trenches of dimensions such that their easy installation is permitted.

The minimum depth of the trench shall be such that there is at least eighty centimeters (0.80 m) between the crown of the pipe and the level of the street grade.

Before proceeding with the placement of the pipes, the bottom of the trench must be compacted. Once the pipes are placed, and the trench is backfilled and compacted, they shall be inspected and subjected to the tests stipulated in section 6.8.

The trench backfill shall be carried out using a suitable material, spread in horizontal layers of fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) maximum thickness, properly compacted.

If buried metallic pipes are used, they must be protected against corrosion with suitable materials. Galvanized iron pipe must not be buried.

Valves on pipes that remain below ground level or floor level must be provided with a protective box. This box must be placed in an accessible location and shall be such that it permits the repair, removal, and operation of the valves.

Buried pipes must be kept away from the foundation of buildings, in order to avoid subjecting it to high compression stresses. Buried pipes must be located above a 45° projection from the foundation slab. See figure 6.12.

The location of potable water pipes and sanitary sewer water pipes must be such that the potable water pipe is above the wastewater pipe.

6.5 STORAGE TANKS

Any building located in sectors where the water supply is not continuous or lacks sufficient pressure must be provided with one or more storage tanks that allow the adequate supply of water to all intended sanitary fixtures or installations. These tanks may be installed in lower levels (collection tank), on intermediate floors, or on top of the building (elevated), provided they comply with the stipulations of this chapter and are in accordance with the fundamental characteristics of the models shown in figures 6.6, 6.7, and 6.8.

Water tanks must be designed in a way that guarantees the potability of the water at all times and prevents the entry of rainwater, rodents, or other contaminants. In the case of condominiums and multi-family buildings, they must have direct access from the common areas of the building for their proper operation, inspection, and maintenance.

Materials for storage tanks must meet the following general requirements: waterproof, odorless, and must not impart taste to the water. These materials may be: plastics, metals, fiber cement, fiberglass, reinforced concrete, or other materials approved by the health authority.

Water from the washing, drainage, or overflow of the tanks must be directed to the building's wastewater drainage system by means of an indirect drain.

The support structure for elevated tanks must comply with the provisions of Article 3.16.

When only an elevated tank exists, it is recommended that its capacity be at least equal to the total daily consumption of the facilities. In cases where interruptions in the supply are sporadic, the capacity of said tank may be reduced.

When it is necessary to use a combination of a catchment tank, a lift pump, and an elevated tank, in places where problems occur, such as insufficient pressure from the public aqueduct or continuous interruptions in the supply, the capacity of the tanks will depend on the pumping schedule, the capacity of the pumps, and the consumption pattern of the building. If this data is not available, it is recommended that the capacity of the catchment tank be at least 75% of the total daily consumption and that of the elevated tank be no less than half of said consumption.

Storage tanks shall be equipped with the necessary devices for their correct operation, maintenance, and cleaning, such as an access hatch (registro), an inlet pipe with a float valve or other automatic control mechanism, an outlet pipe with a gate or shut-off valve, a ventilation pipe, an overflow pipe protected against the entry of insects, and a cleaning pipe that discharges without causing flooding (see figures 6.6, 6.7, and 6.8).

The pipe connections to the tank shall be made in such a way that they do not cause breakage in its walls and keep the tank in its initial conditions. Connections in metal tanks shall prevent electrolytic corrosion.

All accessories that need replacement or repair shall be installed in accessible locations.

Tank valves that are located below ground or floor level shall be provided with a box, in accordance with the provisions of section 6.4.3.

The control of water levels in the tanks shall be carried out by means of automatic level control devices, whose function shall be:

a. To stop the flow into the tank when the liquid level in the elevated tank rises to the maximum planned level.

b. To start the pump when the water level in the elevated tank drops to half its height.

c. To stop the pump when the water level in the elevated tank rises to the maximum planned level.

d. To stop the pump when the water level in the catchment tank drops to 15 cm above the suction strainer.

Underground and semi-buried tanks shall be built with appropriate and durable materials, resistant to the load stresses to which they will be subjected. Every tank shall have two access hatches (registros) that allow for its inspection, cleaning, and eventual repair. It shall project a minimum of fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) above the floor or ground level and shall be located in such a way that it cannot suffer contamination or cause flooding. In the case of being built with concrete, it shall be reinforced concrete or made of concrete blocks duly reinforced, filled with concrete, and coated with cement mortar.

The additional capacity of storage tanks for fire control purposes must be in accordance with the provisions of the current Reglamento Nacional de Protección Contra Incendios issued by the Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica.

The vertical distance between the roof of a tank and the axis of the water inlet pipe may not be less than fifteen centimeters (0.15 m). In those tanks where the lid covers its entire surface and there is direct access to the inlet devices, this distance may be reduced to ten centimeters (0.10 m).

The overflow pipe must be of a larger diameter than the inlet pipe and at least twenty-five millimeters (0.025 m) in diameter. The installation of this accessory may only occur if this pipe discharges in a visible location where possible spills can be clearly noticed.

The position of the overflow pipe shall be such that its crown is at the same level as the bottom of the inlet pipe. The distance between the bottom of the overflow pipe and the maximum water level shall be equal to the diameter of the overflow pipe and no less than twenty-five millimeters (0.025 m).

The drainage or cleaning pipe shall be located in such a way that it allows for the complete emptying of the tank. It shall have a diameter of no less than twenty-five millimeters (0.025 m) and must be provided with a valve.

The supply pipe (tubería de aducción) from the public water supply to the elevated tank shall be calculated to supply the total daily consumption in a time no greater than four hours. This pipe must be provided with its corresponding shut-off valve. For buildings of one or two stories, the diameter of the supply pipe to the elevated tank may be selected according to the daily allowance and tank capacity, as per Table 6.11.

Catchment tanks shall be placed as far away as possible from party walls and wastewater or stormwater sewers, the distance between edges of which must be at least two meters (2.00 m).

No catchment tank may be installed in a location subject to flooding or infiltration of rainwater or wastewater.

6.6 PUMPING EQUIPMENT

The selection of pumping equipment shall be made based on its characteristic curves, its preferred operating region and its acceptable operating region, as well as on the operating conditions of the distribution system, correctly determining the operating points that correspond to the different operating regimes considered. The motor power must be in accordance with the hydraulic power requirements of the system.

Where:

P = power absorbed by the pump (kW) H = pressure developed by the pump (mca) Q = flow rate to be supplied by the pump (L/s).

? = water density (kg/m3) g = acceleration of gravity (m/s2).

? = pump efficiency (%)

For pumping water in buildings, the use of centrifugal pumps is generally recommended.

Pumps installed in buildings for water supply purposes may not be connected directly to the public network; they shall only be connected through a catchment tank, as provided in Article 6.1.8, subsections b and c.

Table 6.11 INTERNAL DIAMETERS OF SUPPLY PIPES TO ELEVATED TANKS | Daily consumption (liters) | Elevated tank capacity (liters) | Minimum (1) supply pipe diameter (mm) | | --- | --- | --- | | Less than 1500 | From 500 to 1500 | 12 | | Up to 2000 | From 1000 to 2000 | 12 | | Up to 4000 | From 2000 to 4000 | 18 | | Up to 8000 | From 4000 to 8000 | 22 | | Up to 15000 | From 8000 to 15000 | 25 | | Up to 27500 | From 15000 to 27500 | 38 | Note:

(1) Internal diameter of the pipe.

These diameters have been calculated assuming a time of four hours for filling the elevated tank.

When the water distribution system is equipped with a catchment tank and an elevated tank, the capacity of the pumping equipment shall be such that it allows filling the elevated tank within the time established in section 6.5.11-4.

The diameters of the pump discharge pipes shall be determined based on the pumping flow rate and the total dynamic head. The diameters of the pump suction pipes shall be determined according to the net positive suction head required by the pump. It is recommended to use pipes that generate minimum resistance and to place the least number of fittings to minimize losses.

The electric motors driving pumps shall have a nominal power of 130% of that absorbed by the pump, if they are three-phase, and 150% if they are single-phase. In case precise technical data is available, the required power may be calculated, taking such characteristics into account. These data should be understood as a guide and not as a requirement.

The pumping equipment of the water distribution systems installed inside buildings shall be located in adequate environments that satisfy requirements such as sufficient free space around the pump for its easy repair or removal, a floor with a slope towards planned drains, minimization of noise or sonic pollution, safety, and adequate ventilation for the establishment. Equipment installed outdoors shall be adequately protected against the weather and arranged in such a way that noise or sonic pollution is minimized. Its installation shall comply with the provisions of the current electrical standard.

The recommendations of this code are applicable for use in buildings; therefore, applications for other types of uses fall outside the scope of this code.

Pumping equipment shall be installed on a concrete foundation, dimensioned to absorb vibrations. The equipment shall be fixed to the foundation by means of anchor bolts, in accordance with the recommendations of the pumping equipment manufacturer.

The connections of the pump to the suction and discharge pipes shall meet the following requirements:

a. The joints between the pump and the corresponding pipes shall preferably be of the flange or union type.

b. The joints immediately adjacent to the discharge pipes for diameters of thirty-two millimeters (0.032 m) and larger shall be of the flexible type.

c. The suction and supply pipes shall rest on supports independent of the pump foundations. Their installation shall be with the least possible number of elbows or fittings.

d. In the case of hot water recirculation pumps, expansion joints must be used on both the suction and supply pipes.

e. The diameters of the suction pipes shall always be greater than or equal to those of the discharge pipes.

f. For pump testing purposes, it is recommended that the discharge have a provision in the form of a T-union with its respective gate valve.

g. It is recommended to install a pressure gauge on the discharge pipe, a short distance from the pump, with a capacity consistent with the pressure developed by the pump. Likewise, it is recommended to install a pressure gauge on the suction pipe, a short distance from the pump, with a measurement range consistent with the suction head that the pipe might experience.

h. If a diameter reduction is required in the pump suction, an eccentric reducer shall be used to prevent air accumulation.

i. Concentric reducers shall be used on discharge pipes when necessary.

On the discharge pipe, immediately after the pump, a check valve and a gate valve shall be installed.

On suction pipes with positive head, a gate valve shall be installed. In the event that it operates with negative suction head, to prevent the pump from losing prime, a check valve (or foot valve) with its respective strainer shall be installed at its lower end.

In high-capacity pumping systems or for high heads, the convenience of installing air release valves, pressure relief valves, or some other system to counteract the effects of water hammer shall be studied.

The pumps and electric motors installed in the water distribution systems of buildings must be identified with plates on which the following data and characteristics are engraved in an indelible form:

a. For the pump: brand, model, type, serial number, flow rate, pressure, speed, and hydraulic power.

b. For the motor: brand, model, serial number, voltage and current per phase, power factor, service factor, speed, frequency, insulation type, class, and acceptable ambient temperature.

Motors shall have their independent power supply derived directly from the control panel. The equipment must be equipped with adequate protection against overloads, short circuits, phase loss, phase reversal, and overheating.

Pumping equipment for combined operation with catchment tanks, hydropneumatic systems, and fire extinguishing systems must be equipped with an automatic control and safety system that guarantees its adequate and continuous operation.

For pumping equipment used in buildings or installations that require it, its connection to an alternate energy system for emergency cases must be provided for.

All pumping equipment and water supply installations in buildings covered by this code must have a maintenance plan that ensures an adequate operating condition.

6.7 HYDROPNEUMATIC EQUIPMENT

In places where the public water supply does not guarantee sufficient pressure for the requirements of the building, hydropneumatic equipment or some alternative technology that guarantees adequate pressure in the water distribution system may be installed. Hydropneumatic tanks must not be used for fire protection.

For the installation of hydropneumatic equipment or alternative systems, a tank with a minimum storage capacity for the total daily consumption of the building must be available.

The pumps must be selected to satisfy the pressures required by the system, as established in Article 6.3.1, including the operating range of the hydropneumatic tank.

For the maximum demand condition, it is recommended that the starts per hour of the pumping system motor do not exceed the manufacturer's recommendations. As a guide, the following values are suggested:

. Motors greater than 4 kW: 6 to 8 cycles/hour.

. Motors between 4 and 2 kW: 8 to 15 cycles/hour.

. Motors less than 2 kW: 15 to 25 cycles/hour.

The operating flow rate of the pump shall be equal to the maximum consumption of the installation served by the hydropneumatic or alternative system during the duration of the operating cycle. The maximum hourly consumption of the installation can be determined in two ways:

a. From the average daily flow rate established according to the allowances indicated in chapter 4, multiplied by a maximization factor of twenty percent (20%) in the case of dwellings and ten percent (10%) in the case of offices and commercial premises.

b. From the probable maximum instantaneous flow rate of the installation, established in section 6.3.3, according to the following expression:

Where:

Q = maximum flow rate during the operating cycle (L/s) QM = probable maximum flow rate (L/s) CO = pump operating cycles per hour tM = probable time that the maximum demand of a cycle is estimated to last (it is recommended to use a time of 60 seconds)

The pumps and motors of the hydropneumatic system must also comply with the requirements demanded in section 6.6, insofar as they are applicable.

The operating pressure range of the hydropneumatic tank must guarantee that the maximum and minimum pressures in the system comply with the provisions of Article 6.3.1.

The total volume of the hydropneumatic tank is determined according to the following expression:

a. Pre-charged systems:

Where:

Vth = hydropneumatic tank volume (liters) Q = pumping system flow rate (L/s) Pmax = maximum absolute operating pressure of the tank Pmin = minimum absolute operating pressure of the tank CO = operating cycles/hour of the pump(s) b. Constant pressure tanks, the volume is calculated with the following formula:

Where:

Vo Tank volume in liters kQ Quotient of the division between the flow rate at which the pump changes on/off operation, Qmin, and the nominal flow rate of one pump, Qnom kQ = Qmin / Qnom (Qmin is given by the manufacturer's curve or can be taken as 10% of Qnom; Qnom can also be taken as the flow rate at maximum efficiency) Q Average flow rate in gallons per minute Pset Operating change (on/off) pressure level in inches per square centimeter kH Quotient of the division between the pressure differential, ?H, and the operating change pressure level, Pset kH = ?H / Pset (The pressure differential can be taken as 20% of the operating change pressure level, Pset) kf Quotient of the division between the tank pre-charge pressure, Po, and the operating change (on/off) pressure kf = Po / Pset (Can be taken as 0.7 for constant pressure systems) N Maximum number of starts per hour; for constant pressure systems with flow rates below Qmin, up to 200 starts per hour can be taken Article 6.7.2-3 The minimum water level in the hydropneumatic tank shall be such that it covers the water inlet and outlet connections and prevents air from escaping through said connections. It is recommended that the volume of water occupied by the seal be no less than 10% of the total tank volume.

Hydropneumatic tanks must have an air charging system of the automatic type; tanks with a capacity equal to or greater than three thousand liters (3000 L) must have an air compressor for such purposes.

The capacity of compressors for hydropneumatic systems must be such that it compresses a volume of air equal to the tank's capacity, from atmospheric pressure to the minimum working pressure of the tank (Pmin), within a period of at least one and a half hours.

The hydropneumatic system must be equipped with the implements indicated below:

a. Automatic and manual control device.

b. Pressure switch for starting at minimum pressure and stopping at maximum pressure.

c. Pressure gauge on the water tank.

d. Safety valve.

e. Gate valves with unions that allow the operation and dismantling of equipment and accessories.

f. Check valves on the pump discharge pipes to the hydropneumatic tank.

g. Gate valve placed in such a way that it can drain all the contents of the tank.

h. Automatic device to stop the operation of the pumps and compressor (if any) in case of a lack of water.

i. Flexible unions to absorb vibrations.

j. A bypass system must be provided that allows the building to be supplied directly from the network, in case of breakdown or maintenance of the hydropneumatic system.

Figure 6.9 shows a model of a hydropneumatic system.

Hydropneumatic tanks shall be supported on adequate supports, and, in addition, horizontal tanks shall have sheets of insulating material placed on the supports to absorb the expansions to which they will be subjected. These horizontal tanks shall be installed with a minimum slope of 1% towards the planned drainage or cleaning outlet.

6.8 INSPECTION AND TESTING OF DRINKING WATER SUPPLY INSTALLATIONS

Water supply installations must be inspected and tested before they are put into service.

To verify compliance with the approved project, the professional responsible for the work must inspect it regularly, according to the stipulations established in the CFIA regulations, demanding, in cases of alteration, the necessary corrections as an indispensable requirement for approving the work.

The professional responsible for the work is obliged to test the system, as a guarantee of its good execution and design, according to the hydrostatic test described below:

a. The test must be carried out before installing the sanitary fixtures, placing plugs in the corresponding locations. The pipes to be tested must be free of foreign materials and debris.

b. Inject water with the help of a pump until achieving a pressure of 700 kPa (7.15 kg/cm2 / 101.7 lb/in2).

c. Observe that said pressure remains constant on the pressure gauge for a minimum period of fifteen (15) minutes, allowing a decrease of no more than 15 kPa without pump action.

d. If the pressure gauge indicates a pressure drop, locate the points of possible leaks, which must be adequately corrected until the provisions of subsection c of this article are met.

e. For the safety purposes of the test, pressure gauges with sufficient sensitivity to indicate small pressure changes, on the order of 5 kPa or lower, shall be used.

In specific or special cases, the health authority may subject the installations to additional tests it deems pertinent.

The professional responsible for the work is obliged to follow the guidelines for disinfecting storage tanks established in this section. The system must be tested as a guarantee of its good execution and design.

After the interior drinking water network or any part of it has been installed or repaired, it must be washed and disinfected. The disinfection procedure, as long as the health authority does not indicate another procedure, shall be as follows:

a. The piping system must be filled with drinking water until it overflows at the accessories. The pipes to be disinfected must be free of foreign materials and debris.

b. The system shall be filled using a solution of at least 50 mg/L of chlorine, which must act inside the pipe for at least three (3) hours. During the chlorination process, all valves and other accessories shall be operated repeatedly to ensure that all their parts come into contact with the chlorine solution.

c. After disinfection, the chlorinated water shall be totally expelled from the pipe by filling it with water intended for consumption.

d. The process must be repeated if bacteriological tests confirm the persistence of contaminating elements or a high concentration of chlorine.

Before carrying out the disinfection of storage tanks, they must be filled with water to detect leaks. In the case of concrete structures, it is recommended to waterproof the tank. Once leaks are detected, if any, the tank shall be drained, and its repair carried out. Disinfection shall be carried out as follows:

a. The tank walls shall be washed with a broom or steel brush, using a concentrated solution of calcium or sodium hypochlorite (150 to 200 mg/L).

b. The tank shall be filled with a solution containing at least 50 mg/L of chlorine and must remain in the tank for at least 12 hours. During this time, the valves must be operated repeatedly so that they and the accessories also come into contact with the disinfectant.

c. After disinfection, the chlorinated water shall be completely drained from the tank.

d. When calcium or sodium hypochlorite is not available to perform disinfection, other biocidal compounds could be used, with prior authorization for their use by the competent health authority, for the disinfection process. These compounds must have a sanitary registration before the Ministerio de Salud.

For cases of prefabricated tanks, regardless of the material from which they are built, specifically for the storage of drinking water, they must have manufacturer certification, and steps a) to d) must be followed to disinfect them.

6.9 SANITARY DISINFECTION

After the interior drinking water network or any part of it has been installed and/or repaired, it must be washed and disinfected. The disinfection procedure, as long as the Health Authority does not indicate another procedure, shall be as follows:

a. The piping system must be filled with drinking water until it overflows at the accessories.

b. The system shall be filled using a solution of at least 50 mg/L of chlorine, which must act inside the pipe for at least three (3) hours. During the chlorination process, all valves and other accessories shall be operated repeatedly to ensure that all their parts come into contact with the chlorine solution.

c. After disinfection, the chlorinated water shall be totally expelled from the pipe by filling it with water intended for consumption.

d. The process must be repeated if bacteriological tests confirm the persistence of contaminating elements or a high concentration of chlorine.

Before carrying out the disinfection of storage tanks, they must be filled with water to detect leaks. In the case of concrete structures, it is recommended to waterproof the tank. Once leaks are detected, if any, the tank shall be drained, and its repair carried out. Disinfection shall be carried out as follows:

a. The tank walls shall be washed with a broom or steel brush using a concentrated solution of calcium or sodium hypochlorite (150 to 200 mg/L).

b. The tank shall be filled with a solution containing at least 50 mg/L of chlorine and must remain in the tank for at least 12 hours. During this time, the valves must be operated repeatedly so that they and the accessories also come into contact with the disinfectant.

c. After disinfection, the chlorinated water shall be completely drained from the tank.

6.10 HOT WATER INSTALLATIONS

For the production, storage, and distribution of hot water, the provisions of this section must be complied with, in addition to the provisions established in previous articles for drinking water systems.

Hot water installations in buildings must satisfy consumption requirements and must not present accident risks.

Equipment for generating hot water must be built in a manner resistant to the maximum pressures and temperatures that may occur in the system, as well as being resistant to corrosion and equipped with all required safety and cleaning devices according to current regulations and good construction practice.

All hot water generation equipment shall be provided with automatic devices for temperature control and for cutting off the energy source. Said devices shall be installed in such a way that they suspend the energy supply before the water in the tank reaches a temperature of 60 °C for dwellings; 70 °C for restaurants, hotels, and similar establishments; 80 °C for hospitals, clinics, and related facilities. The temperature sensor shall be located in the maximum water temperature zone.

Hot water generation systems shall have safety valves to control excess pressure. Said devices shall be calibrated to begin operation at a pressure 10% greater than that of the system's normal operation. Their location shall be on the generation equipment or on its outlet pipe, at a maximum distance of thirty centimeters (0.30 m) from the equipment, provided that no valves exist between the safety valve and said equipment.

Hot water generation systems that operate with fuel gas and are of the open type shall not be installed in bathrooms, bedrooms, shower rooms, or cleaning rooms. In this type of room, only hermetic type systems may be used.

The place where a water heater is installed must be accessible for its inspection, maintenance, or replacement.

Water heaters shall be located in non-habitable rooms of the house, with the exception of instantaneous water heaters, as long as they are electric or directly vented.

When the building's hot water supply system is of the simple type (without recirculation), a check valve must be installed on the hot water supply pipe.

A control valve must be installed on the cold water supply pipe to the hot water generation system. Furthermore, to separate the hot water tank from the pipes and facilitate its maintenance, the inlet and outlet connections shall be of the union type.

Steam or hot water escapes from safety and control devices must be evacuated indirectly to the drainage system. The discharges shall be located in such a way that they do not cause accidents, discomfort, or damage to structures, equipment, and properties, but that allow observation by the building occupants.

The diameter of the discharge pipe must be at least the outlet diameter of the relief valve. The discharge pipe must allow gravity drainage, and its final part must be at a distance no greater than fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) above the floor level.

In hot water systems, the distribution pipes may be made of galvanized iron, copper, polypropylene, or CPVC. Pipes made of other materials may be used; however, review by the competent health authority and other State institutions must be considered.

In hot water system pipes, sufficient expansion joints shall be installed to prevent buckling, excessive displacement, or rupture of the pipes.

Water heaters with a built-in tank shall be installed according to the manufacturer's specifications. If the manufacturer provides no indication in this regard, a clear space of no less than twenty-five centimeters (0.25 m) shall be maintained from any side or rear wall of the heater's edges. Likewise, the requirements established by the Costa Rican Electrical Code for the Safety of Life and Property, and the NFPA 70 National Electrical Code standard, in its latest valid Spanish version, shall be met.

When a "tankless" type heater is installed, the manufacturer's specification shall be applied.

Gas-fired water heaters shall be installed in residential buildings following the manufacturer's specifications. If the manufacturer provides no indication in this regard, they shall be installed in such a way that the burners or ignition devices are located at a minimum distance of twenty-five centimeters (0.25 m) from the floor when the base is constructed of combustible material. Likewise, the requirements established by the Costa Rican Electrical Code for the Safety of Life and Property, and the NFPA 70 National Electrical Code standard, in its latest valid Spanish version, shall be met.

Valves shall be installed to control excess pressure, in addition to installing a check valve in the cold water supply pipe.

The installation of gas water heaters shall also comply with the provisions of the current National Fire Protection Regulation of the Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos and, supplementarily, with the provisions of the NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code standards, in their latest valid Spanish version.

The installation of electric water heaters shall comply with the provisions of the Costa Rican Electrical Code for the Safety of Life and Property or, failing that, the NFPA 70 National Electrical Code standard, in its latest valid Spanish version.

Water heaters shall be located at a distance of no less than thirty centimeters (0.30 m) from any side or rear wall. This applies in the event that the equipment manufacturer provides no indication in this regard. Tankless water heaters are exempted from the preceding rule, since these are fixed to the wall, making a separation distance impossible.

Valves shall be installed to control excess pressure, in addition to installing a check valve in the cold water supply pipe.

The openings for air intake shall be located in such a way that:

. One opening must be located at a distance, above the highest part of the water heater, of no less than 30 cm.

. Another opening must be located below the ceiling level of the room, at a distance of no less than 30 cm.

The requirements indicated in Table 6.12 are only a reference. The manner in which combustion air is supplied may be designed in accordance with recognized principles and good engineering practices, as long as it does not contravene the provisions of the related authorities.

Water heaters that require chimneys or ducts to expel vent gases shall comply with the provisions of the equipment manufacturer; additionally, the indications of the NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code and the NFPA 58 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code standard may be used for design and sizing.

Chimney ducts shall be adequate to carry combustion gases and shall comply with the specifications of the heater manufacturer, as well as the provisions of NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code.

The ventilation system shall be designed to develop a positive flow that transports all combustion products to the outside of the building.

The discharge of ducts that pass through walls or exit to the roof shall terminate in an appropriate type of cap, which must be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The discharge of ducts terminating above the roof shall exceed by at least sixty centimeters (0.60 m) the highest point of the roof located within a radius of three meters (3 m). This provision does not apply in the case of adjacent buildings. For this, a forced draft system using an electromechanical system shall be implemented.

Table 6.12 SIZE OF AIR OPENINGS OR DUCTS FOR GAS WATER HEATERS

Note: An unconfined space is considered to be any room or place that has a volume of at least 1 m3 per each 205 W of water heater capacity. Rooms that communicate directly with this space, through openings without devices, such as doors, are considered part of the confined space.

. The openings must be larger in size than the heater, and must terminate at a minimum distance of 7.5 cm above the sides or front of the heater.

. The openings must serve a single closed room.

The discharge of ducts shall terminate respecting the following dimensions:

a. It shall be located at a distance of no less than one hundred twenty centimeters (1.20 m) below any door, window (serving ventilation purposes), or air intake (by gravity).

b. It shall be at a distance of no less than one hundred twenty centimeters (1.20 m) horizontally from any door, window (serving ventilation purposes), or air intake (by gravity).

c. It shall be at a distance of no less than thirty centimeters (0.30 m) above any door, window (serving ventilation purposes), or air intake (by gravity).

d. It shall be at a distance of no less than ninety centimeters (0.90 m) above any forced air intake, located within a radius of three meters (3 m).

e. It shall be at a distance of no less than sixty centimeters (0.60 m) above any wall or railing, located within a radius of three meters (3.0 m).

Electric, gas, or solar energy water heaters may be used, whether of the direct feed type or with a tank.

The supply of drinking water for the heaters may be carried out by any of the following means:

a. Directly from the main water connection (acometida).

b. From a cold water collection tank.

c. From a hydropneumatic tank.

The distribution of hot water may be carried out using the following methods: system with recirculation and system without recirculation. The former may be of the forced type or by gravity.

. System with recirculation: this is recommended in buildings of three (3) or more floors, or in those cases where the sanitary fixtures or points requiring hot water are distributed over extensive areas, with special attention to cases where a constant and instantaneous water supply is necessary, such as hospitals, clinics, and hotels, among others.

. System without recirculation: is used in small installations, single-family homes, and buildings of up to three floors.

The allowances for hot water shall be in accordance with what is established for cold water systems in Chapter 4, as follows:

a. Domestic use. The minimum daily allowance shall be one-sixth of the allowance set for cold water.

b. Lodging and accommodation. The minimum daily allowance shall be one-quarter of the allowance set for cold water.

c. Restaurants and similar establishments. The minimum daily allowance shall be two liters per person served.

d. Student residences. The minimum daily allowance shall be one-quarter of the allowance set for cold water.

e. Gyms. The minimum daily allowance shall be five liters per square meter (5.0 L/m2) of effective area.

f. Hospitals, clinics, and similar establishments. The minimum daily allowance for clinics and hospitals shall be two-fifths of the allowance set for cold water. The daily allowance for dental clinics shall be one-eighth of the allowance set for cold water.

For calculating the capacity of the hot water generation equipment, when it has a collection tank, the relationships indicated in Table 6.13 shall be used, according to the assigned hot water consumption.

Table 6.13 CAPACITY OF HOT WATER PRODUCTION TANKS AND EQUIPMENT

WASTEWATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS 7.1 GENERAL STANDARDS

Wastewater sanitary installations shall be designed and constructed in such a way that they allow the rapid evacuation of waste, prevent obstructions, prevent the passage of gases and odors from the system into the interior of buildings, do not allow the escape of liquids or the formation of deposits inside the pipes, and do not contaminate the water supply.

The pipes and fittings of the wastewater drainage systems shall be made of a durable material, free of defects, and shall comply with the requirements and specifications indicated in the articles of section 7.2 of this Code.

Each sanitary fixture or accessory connected directly to the wastewater drainage system shall be equipped with a water seal or trap (sifón) to prevent the entry of foul odors into the interior of the building.

Every wastewater drainage system shall be provided with a sufficient number of inspection boxes (cajas de registro) and cleanouts for its cleaning and maintenance.

The wastewater drainage system shall have ventilation pipes that allow adequate aeration, guaranteeing flow at atmospheric pressure.

No sanitary fixture shall be installed in a room that does not have adequate ventilation and lighting. In addition, the dimensions indicated in section 5.3 of this Code shall be respected.

The discharges from wastewater drainage systems shall be disposed of as indicated in Chapter 3 of this Code. The connection of the wastewater drainage systems to the sanitary sewer shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Technical Standard for the design and construction of drinking water supply, sanitation, and stormwater systems issued by the Instituto Costarricense de Acueductos y Alcantarillados or the standard that supersedes it.

In a wastewater drainage system, the following conditions shall be inadmissible:

a. That discharges from one building enter the pipes of another building.

b. That drainage pipes cross the interior of drinking water storage tanks, or cross over the roof or covering slab of these (see section 6.5.2).

c. Cleanout boxes (cajas de registro) in bedrooms or enclosed places.

d. Cross connections with other systems that are not sanitary.

e. For vertical buildings, it shall be inadmissible not to use the color code for pipes and/or their corresponding flow direction.

To prevent the entry of rodents into buildings, a device or perforated cap must be installed at the entrance of the drainage pipe, where the largest opening must not be greater than 12 mm.

7.2 MATERIALS FOR DRAINAGE PIPES, VENT PIPES, THEIR JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS

In conduits for wastewater drainage, whether residential or industrial, pipes made of the following materials shall be used, according to the indications of the following articles:

. Cast iron.

. PVC (DWV).

. Galvanized steel.

. Polyethylene.

. Concrete.

. Polypropylene.

. Material approved by an accredited standard.

The use of galvanized steel or wrought iron pipes and connection pieces for drainage conduits or branches, downspouts (bajantes), and building sanitary sewers shall be permitted, provided that they are used with the corresponding drainage connections of the same materials and that they are not placed underground. They must be kept at a height above the ground of at least fifteen centimeters (0.15 m).

The use of vitrified clay is not recommended due to its fragility.

The use of concrete pipes shall be admissible only for collectors located outside the construction area and away from the structural foundations of the building, and must be at a distance of no less than one (1) meter from the latter. In single-story buildings, the use of these materials shall be permitted even under the construction zone.

Drainage pipes that conduct corrosive liquids and the corresponding ventilation pipes shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant material.

As long as national industrial technical standards for the different types of pipes, connections, and accessories are not in force in the country, they shall be considered of satisfactory quality if they comply with the most recent specifications of qualified entities such as:

. American Water Works Association (AWWA) . American Standards Association (ASA) . American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) . British Standards Institution (BSI) . International Organization for Standardization (ISO) . Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) In the case of PVC pipes, one of the following corresponding standards must be met, as applicable:

. ASTM D 3034 PVC pipe and fittings for sanitary sewer.

. ASTM D 2665 PVC pipe and fittings for drain, waste, and vent (DWV).

. ASTM D 3350 polyethylene pipe and fittings.

. ASTM F-949. PVC pipe and fittings with corrugated (structured) wall and smooth interior.

The joints for drainage and ventilation pipes shall be in accordance with the class and type of the respective pipes, and shall guarantee the watertightness of the system.

Polyethylene pipes may be exposed to ultraviolet radiation, provided they have been manufactured to withstand such radiation. Otherwise, they must be stabilized by means of carbon black well dispersed in a compound, in a concentration of no less than 2%.

PVC pipes may be exposed to the environment, provided they are in an area not exposed to physical damage and are protected from ultraviolet rays.

7.3 STANDARDS FOR THE SIZING OF WASTEWATER DRAINAGE CONDUITS

The dimensions of primary and secondary collectors shall be calculated based on the flow rate that each sanitary fixture draining into them can discharge. The maximum flow rate of a collector shall be obtained by considering the probability of simultaneous use of the sanitary fixtures connected to it. It is suggested to use either of the two methods indicated below:

a. First method: this consists of estimating the discharge flow rate similarly to section 6.3.3, using fixture units as drainage fixture units (unidades de descarga), but only the data for systems with flushometers must be used. Once the probable maximum flow rate is obtained, the diameter of drains and downspouts is estimated using the procedures indicated in section 7.3.

b. Second method: the second way consists of using tables that directly relate the drainage fixture units in a drainage pipe to the required diameter. Tables 7.1 and 7.2 are used for these purposes.

Similarly to drinking water supply systems, wastewater drainage systems shall be sized using the concept of the probable maximum flow rate (first method). The Hunter method, explained in section 6.3.3, can also be used to estimate wastewater discharge flow rates.

In this case, each sanitary fixture is assigned a weight by means of drainage fixture units. The value of the drainage fixture units (see Table 7.3) is based on the average volume discharged, the normal duration of the discharge, and the frequency of use of the sanitary fixture.

In general, the drainage fixture units for fixtures are equal to or similar to the fixture units indicated in Table A1 (u.a.), except in those cases where the discharges from the fixtures differ from their supply flow rates, such as tank-type toilets, sinks, among others. Table 7.3 indicates the values of drainage fixture units (u.d.) for different types of fixtures.

As a recommendation for estimating the flow rate from drainage fixture units, the data for systems with flushometers may be used.

Once the probable maximum flow rate is obtained from section 7.3.2 and the Hunter method in section 6.3.3, the diameter of the drains and downspouts is estimated using the procedures indicated in section 7.3.3.

The second method consists of using tables that directly relate the drainage fixture units in a drainage pipe to the required diameter. Tables 7.1 and 7.2 are used for these purposes.

Table 7.1 MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE LOADS FOR VERTICAL DRAINAGE PIPES (DOWNSPOUTS)

Notes:

(1) Toilets are not permitted.

(2) No more than two toilets are permitted.

(3) No more than six toilets are permitted.

For estimating the discharge capacities of the different sanitary fixtures, as well as the minimum diameters of the traps (sifones) and the discharge conduits of said fixtures, the values given in Table 7.3 shall be used. For any fixture not appearing in said table, the data indicated in Table 7.4 shall be used, according to the drainage fixture units.

Table 7.2 MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE LOADS FOR HORIZONTAL DRAINAGE PIPES | Pipe Diameter (mm) | Any horizontal fixture branch | Main drains and branches |

Notes:

(1) Toilets are not permitted.

(2) No more than two toilets are permitted.

Table 7.3 DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNITS AND MINIMUM DIAMETERS FOR TRAPS AND DISCHARGE CONDUITS OF SANITARY FIXTURES | Fixture | Minimum trap and discharge conduit diameter (1) (mm) | Drainage Fixture Units (u.d.) | | | --- | --- | --- | | | Private use | Public use | | | Bathtub | 38 | 2 | 4 | | Bidet | 38 | 1 | 2 | | Shower | 50 | 2 | 4 | | Domestic sink | 38 | 2 | 4 | | Commercial sink | 50 | - | 1 | | Tank-type toilet | 100 (2) | 3 | 5 | | Semiautomatic valve toilet | 75 | 6 | 10 | | Washbasin (residential use) | 32 | 1 | 2 | | Washbasin (collective use) | 38 | 4 | - | | Washing machine (3) | 50 | 2 | 2 | | Trough urinal (per meter) | 50 | 0.5 | - | | 19 mm semiautomatic valve urinal | 50 | 3 | - | | Laundry sink | 38 | 4 to 5 | 5 to 6 | | Domestic dishwasher | 32 | 1.5 | - | | Sink (clinics) | 50 | 3 | - | Notes:

(1) Minimum internal diameter (2) The use of seventy-five millimeter (0.075 m) pipes shall be permitted for six-liter (6.0 l) per flush toilets. Also, in buildings where the dimensions between the concrete slab and the ceiling are reduced.

(3) For buildings where there are common laundry areas, with banks of three or more washing machines, at least six u.d. per machine shall be considered for the sizing of common drains, both horizontal and vertical.

(4) In the case of fixtures or equipment with continuous or semi-continuous flow, such as the output of wastewater pumps, automatic washers, air conditioning equipment, and similar, the corresponding number of drainage fixture units shall be calculated at a rate of one drainage fixture unit for each 0.06 liters per second of flow. In the event of discharge from said fixtures or equipment whose drainage is carried out by pumping, the minimum diameter of the conduit or drain branch receiving such discharge shall be 7.62 cm (3").

(5) The indirect waste receptor shall be sized based on the total drainage discharge it receives, in accordance with Table 7.5.

Table 7.4 MINIMUM DIAMETERS FOR TRAPS AND DISCHARGE CONDUITS OF UNSPECIFIED SANITARY FIXTURES

Table 7.5 SIZING OF INDIRECT WASTE DRAINS

Note:

. For low-demand drains, for example, refrigerators, coffee and water dispensers, a trap of at least 38 mm shall be used.

. For drains with moderate or considerable demand, for example, commercial sinks and dishwashers, a trap of at least 50 mm shall be used.

The slope of the horizontal stretches of the discharge conduits, as well as that of the primary and secondary collectors, shall be uniform. To determine their diameter and slope, the following considerations shall be taken into account:

a. The diameter of a horizontal drainage conduit may not be less than that of any of the outlet orifices of the fixtures that discharge into it.

b. The conduit shall function as an open channel with velocities between 0.6 and 2.5 m/s.

c. For the design flow rate, the discharge shall fill a maximum of half the height of the collector, under uniform flow conditions. In multi-story buildings, the discharge may fill up to a maximum of 3/4 of the height of the collector, under uniform flow conditions.

d. To estimate the required diameter and slope, Manning's formula is recommended:

Where:

Q = system flow rate (L/s) n = Manning's roughness coefficient (see Table 7.6) AM = wetted area (m2) RH = hydraulic radius = wetted area / wetted perimeter (m) S = conduit slope (m/m) To calculate the wetted area and the hydraulic radius for the two flow conditions, the equations in Table 7.7 may be used.

e. In the case of discharge conduits and collectors less than one hundred fifty millimeters in diameter (150 mm), the minimum slopes indicated in Table 7.8 shall be respected.

7.4 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR WASTEWATER DRAINAGE

In buildings of three or more floors, the downspouts (bajantes) shall be placed in ducts provided for this purpose.

Their dimensions shall be such that they allow their installation, inspection, repair, or removal.

Wastewater drainage or ventilation pipes must not be placed in stairways, elevator pits, or in such a way that they interfere with the normal operation of windows or doors.

Table 7.6 MANNING'S ROUGHNESS COEFFICIENTS

Table 7.7 EQUATIONS FOR CALCULATING THE WETTED AREA AND HYDRAULIC RADIUS IN CIRCULAR CONDUITS

Note:

Where, d is the internal diameter of the pipe (m).

Table 7.8 MINIMUM SLOPE OF DISCHARGE CONDUITS AND COLLECTORS FROM THE FIXTURE TO THE FIRST BRANCH

The placement of drainage pipes directly above water supply tanks, the cleaning cleanouts of said tanks, or floor areas used for the manufacture, preparation, packaging, storage, or display of food is not permitted.

The installation of drainage and ventilation conduits shall comply with the corresponding articles of section 6.4.

The wastewater drainage conduits and branches of the building shall be installed in straight alignments and with a uniform slope.

Underground pipes. The drainage collectors located underground shall be placed in excavated ditches of dimensions that allow their easy installation and shall comply with the following conditions:

a. The depth of the ditches shall be in accordance with the diameter of the pipe to be installed, and in no case shall there be a distance of less than three hundred millimeters (300 mm) between the crown of the pipe and the ground surface. In the event of a transit area, this distance shall not be less than one meter (1.0 m), unless calculations demonstrate that a lower value is safe.

b. Before proceeding with the placement of the pipes, the bottom of the ditch must be compacted in order to avoid possible damage due to settlement. The pipes must be in contact with firm ground along their entire length and in such a way that they are supported on at least twenty-five percent (25%) of their exterior surface.

c. When there are possibilities of earthworks (movimiento de tierra), the respective precautions must be taken by bedding the pipes on special bases and using flexible connections.

d. Once the pipes are placed, and the trench backfilled and compacted, they shall be inspected and subjected to the corresponding tests in accordance with the provisions of section 7.10.

e. No point of the wastewater collector shall be located at a distance less than those indicated in Table 7.9.

f. The building's wastewater and storm drainage pipes located at a lower level and parallel to the foundations must be set back from them in such a way that the plane formed by the lower edge of the foundation and the axis of the pipe forms an angle no greater than forty-five degrees (45°) with the horizontal.

g. When the building's sanitary or storm sewer pipes are laid on fill material, the professional must perform an analysis of the corresponding condition to provide a comprehensive solution to the situation presented by the project regarding the securing of the pipe.

Every building must have a domestic connection point for sanitation service.

A gravity-flow pipe must be installed, prior to the septic tank, which allows the flow to be diverted toward the front of the property. The pipe must be sealed with a plug right on the property line, so that connection to the sewer system is possible.

Table 7.9 DISTANCES TO BE MAINTAINED BY WASTEWATER COLLECTORS

Connections between collectors, stacks, and drainage pipes shall be made at an angle no greater than forty-five degrees (45°), unless made in a manhole (caja de registro), in which case the bottom of the manhole shall be such that it conditions the flow. Under no circumstances shall 90-degree (90°) fittings be used.

To prevent backflow from the wastewater drainage pipes into the branch lines, each branch connection to the drainage pipe should preferably be made in its upper half or in the air space portion.

Where two or more wastewater stacks discharge into a main horizontal branch, they must be connected to the upper half of the branch.

When a change in direction is required for a stack, the diameters of the inclined portion and the lower section of the stack shall be calculated as follows:

a. If the inclined portion forms an angle of 45 degrees or more with the horizontal, it shall be calculated as if it were a vertical stack.

b. If the inclined portion forms an angle of less than 45 degrees with the horizontal, it shall be calculated according to its design flow and as if it had a slope of 4%.

c. Below the inclined portion, the stack shall have a diameter not less than that of the inclined section.

Horizontal changes in direction of wastewater drainage pipes must be made by means of 45° Y-branches, 60°, 45°, or 22.5° long-sweep elbows, or with appropriate combinations of these fittings or their equivalents.

Changes in flow direction from horizontal to vertical shall be made using:

a. Single or double sanitary T-branches.

b. 90° elbows.

c. 45° elbows with single or double 45° Y-branches.

d. Special connection fitting as established by the designer.

Changes in flow direction from vertical to horizontal shall be made using 45° elbows and 45° Y-branches.

The use of the following connection fittings is prohibited for connections or changes in direction in the wastewater and rainwater drainage systems of buildings:

a. Elbows of more than 45°.

b. Straight T-branches, at 90°, in any conduit, except in vent piping.

c. Single or double sanitary T-branches, in connections or changes in direction from horizontal to horizontal at 90°. These fittings may be used in changes in direction from horizontal to vertical, installed preceded by 45° elbows.

d. Double 45° Y-branches, for connections or changes in direction from horizontal to horizontal, unless they are provided with a cleanout plug located directly upstream of the respective connection.

e. Connection fittings provided with a bell end facing opposite to the flow direction.

f. Elbows provided with a side or back inlet, when the latter is horizontal.

7.5 TRAPS (SIFONES)

Every plumbing fixture shall be provided with a trap (sifón) whose water seal shall have a height of no less than five centimeters (0.05 m) nor greater than ten centimeters (0.10 m), except in those cases where the seal height to be used is specified, or where its special design requires a water height not contemplated within the scope established in this article.

Traps shall be placed as close as possible to the discharge outlets of the corresponding plumbing fixtures, but at a vertical distance no greater than sixty centimeters (0.60 m) between the discharge outlet and the trap weir.

Under no circumstances may the nominal diameter of the trap be less than that specified in Table 7.3.

For special fixtures, such as laundry tubs, kitchen sinks, and other similar fixtures with two or three compartments, or in the case of three lavatories close together in the same room, the use of a common trap is permitted, provided the following requirements are met:

a. The bottom of any of the compartments may not be more than fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) below the bottom of the others.

b. The horizontal distance between the trap and the discharge outlet of the farthest compartment shall not be greater than seventy-five centimeters (0.75 m).

c. In the case of three-compartment fixtures, the common trap must be placed under the central compartment.

The use of a common trap shall be permitted for a maximum of five of the following sanitary appliances: showers and floor drains.

The traps of plumbing fixtures shall be provided with a cleanout plug or opening, unless the trap is easily removable or forms an integral part of the fixture.

The use of traps in which the seal depends on the action of levers or any moving part is prohibited. The use of S-type, bell-type, or bottle traps is also prohibited. No fixture shall have more than one trap.

Floor drains must have their water trap installed in such a way as to allow access for cleaning. Its sizing shall be in accordance with the needs present. When the floor drain is likely to be exposed to backflows, the drainage must have a check valve.

7.6 CLEANOUTS AND MANHOLES (BOCAS DE LIMPIEZA Y CAJAS DE REGISTRO)

Wastewater, stormwater, and industrial wastewater drainage systems shall be provided with cleanouts (bocas de limpieza) and manholes (cajas de registro) in accordance with the provisions established in the following articles.

Cleanouts shall be located in easily accessible places.

Cleanouts shall be placed in accordance with the following:

a. Where there are no manholes, at the beginning of each horizontal drainage branch of a battery of plumbing fixtures, or in horizontal sections where other branches have discharged.

b. In horizontal drainage pipes, every ten meters (10 m).

c. At the foot of each stack, except when it discharges into a straight collector with a manhole located no more than five meters (5 m) from the foot of the stack.

d. At the bottom of the traps of plumbing fixtures in accordance with the provisions of Article 7.5.6.

e. In horizontal drainage pipes, every two changes of direction (every 180°).

f. In stacks, at least every two floors.

g. Exceptions:

1. The cleanout may be omitted in horizontal drains less than one hundred and fifty centimeters (1.5 m) in length, unless this line is serving a kitchen sink or a urinal.

2. In horizontal drains with a slope that forms an angle equal to or greater than 18° with respect to a horizontal line, except in pipes leading to grease traps.

The trap of a plumbing fixture shall be accepted as equivalent to a cleanout, provided it is easily removable.

Cleanouts shall be cast iron, bronze, PVC, or any other acceptable material and shall be provided with a plug at one end. The plugs shall be made of the aforementioned materials, threaded, and provided with a slot or a projection to facilitate their removal.

Cleanouts may not have a diameter less than 50 millimeters (minimum diameter to allow a snake to be inserted). When changes of direction are to be made in pipes with diameters of 50 millimeters or less, these must be made with 45° elbows. When the change of direction is 90°, it shall be made using a connection of two 45° elbows to facilitate the free movement of the snake.

When pipes are concealed or buried, they must be extended using forty-five-degree connections until they finish flush with the finished wall or floor, or they shall be housed in floor registers of dimensions that allow removal of the plug and effective cleaning of the system.

These registers shall be provided with suitable, easily removable covers made of metal or concrete (see Figure 7.1).

In floor registers, both the cover and the upper edge of the body must be flush with the finished floor. These registers must be located at a distance of no less than six meters (6.0 m) from any access door.

To prevent the outflow of wastewater, cleanouts shall be installed so that they open in the direction opposite to the flow and forming an angle of forty-five degrees (45°) with the drainage pipe.

The minimum distance between the plug of any cleanout and a wall, ceiling, or any element that could obstruct system cleaning shall be forty-five centimeters (0.45 m) for pipes of one hundred millimeters (0.10 m) or more in diameter and thirty centimeters (0.30 m) for pipes of seventy-five millimeters (0.075 m) or less. Figure 7.1 illustrates the different positions of cleanouts.

No plumbing fixture or floor drain may discharge into the cleanouts.

It is recommended that the wastewater drain connection to the public network be made by means of a building trap (sifón de edificio). This trap must be equipped with two cleanouts of the same diameter as the trap, and not less than one hundred millimeters (0.10 m). The cleanouts must be accessible, so as to allow cleaning the interior of the trap and cleaning upstream and downstream of it. Figure 7.2 shows a model of said manhole. It is accepted that the sanitary trap be installed without the manhole, provided that the provisions established in the Technical Standard for the Design and Construction of Potable Water Supply, Sanitation, and Stormwater Systems issued by the Instituto Costarricense de Acueductos y Alcantarillados or its replacing standard are met. This manhole must be installed within the property line. The building trap must be placed downstream of all the building's drainage branches, except those installed to receive discharges from oil separators or a wastewater lift system.

Ventilation must be provided for the building trap at a distance no greater than one hundred and twenty centimeters (1.20 m). It must have a diameter of at least half the diameter of the building drain at the point of connection, but not less than fifty millimeters (0.05 m). This ventilation must extend from the connection point to the atmosphere outside the building, as specified in Section 8.3 regarding ventilation systems.

Manholes shall be installed in exterior pipe networks at every change in direction, slope, or diameter, at each branch connection, and every ten meters (10.0 m) in straight sections. In drains passing beneath a building, manholes must be installed at the entrance and exit of the building pipe.

Manholes must be constructed with impermeable materials and may be made of concrete or masonry, with a frame and cover of cast iron, bronze, or concrete, or other materials that demonstrate the necessary characteristics to form part of the system. Likewise, prefabricated elements, constructed with materials resistant to weather and heavy traffic, may be used.

The interior of the manholes shall be smooth so that they do not present rough or coarse surfaces. Manholes constructed with masonry must have a minimum plaster coat of one centimeter thickness (0.01 m). The bottom of the manholes must have half-channels of the diameter of the pipes to which they connect (see Figure 7.3).

The covers must be weather-resistant and able to withstand the traffic loads to which they will be subjected. The final surface finish may be of another material in accordance with the floor in which they are installed. The cover must be sealed to prevent the escape of gases and odors.

If the above cannot be guaranteed, a double cover or inner cover shall be used.

Manholes for wastewater must have an inner cover, preventing the emission of foul odors.

The dimensions of manholes shall be determined according to Table 7.10. Furthermore, the following aspects must be taken into account:

a. The minimum separation between the pipe and the manhole walls shall be seventy-five millimeters (0.075 m).

b. In single branch connections, the minimum width of the manholes shall be given by the diameter of the largest pipe plus thirty centimeters (0.30 m), distributed as ten centimeters (0.10 m) and twenty centimeters (0.20 m) of separation between the pipe and the walls (see Figure 7.3).

c. In two-branch connections, the minimum width of the manholes shall be given by the diameter of the largest pipe plus forty centimeters (0.40 m), so that the separation between the pipe and the walls is at least twenty centimeters (0.20 m). These must enter the manhole opposite one another.

Table 7.10 DIMENSIONS OF MANHOLES

Note:

Starting from the depth of 0.9 meters, the standards concerning manholes must be applied.

7.7 INDIRECT WASTE PIPING (DESAGÜES INDIRECTOS)

Waste from equipment and fixtures where an obstruction of the wastewater drainage system into which they discharge could cause contamination must discharge into the drainage pipes indirectly. The following equipment must have indirect waste piping:

a. Sterilizers, autoclaves, and any similar container or equipment used in laboratories, hospitals, clinics, and similar establishments.

b. Commercial coolers, freezers, ice-making machines, coffee dispensers, water dispensers, water fountains, and other similar equipment.

c. The overflow and cleaning pipes of potable water storage tanks, hydropneumatic tanks, swimming pools, and pumping systems in general.

d. The pipes of devices and equipment equipped with pressure or temperature relief valves from hot water generation or storage systems or steam installations.

e. Dishwashing machines, sinks, and equipment used for the preparation, preservation, and sale of food and beverages in soda fountains, bars, restaurants, and food product factories.

f. Any artifact or equipment that is not considered a plumbing fixture but is equipped with some form of pumping, or that has a drip or any drainage outlet.

g. All those drains that the respective health authority deems appropriate for the protection of public health.

Indirect waste piping shall be carried out in accordance with the following guidelines:

a. The discharge pipe from the fixture shall be carried to a manhole, floor drain, funnel, or other suitable receptor device.

b. The discharge pipe must be equal to or greater than the fixture's drain, but never less than twenty-five millimeters (0.025 m). In the case of refrigerators and ice-making machines, the drain pipe may not be less than eighteen millimeters (0.018 m).

c. An air gap must be left between the outlet of the discharge pipe and the receptor device, which shall not be less than twice the diameter of the discharge pipe. This separation must be adequate to prevent contamination by the backflow of wastewater.

d. Except for refrigerators and ice-making machines, the receptor device must be located at a distance no greater than four and a half meters (4.5 m) from the waste outlet of the fixture or equipment.

e. The drainage pipe of the receptor device must be provided with its respective water seal and ventilation connection.

Figure 7.4 shows standard diagrams of indirect waste piping.

The receptor devices for indirect waste piping must be of such form and capacity as to prevent splashing or flooding; furthermore, they must be installed in well-ventilated places easily accessible for inspection and cleaning. No receptor shall be installed in a toilet room, or in any area of the building used by the general public. These devices shall be provided with removable grates or covers when necessary to protect people's safety.

Except as indicated in this section, indirect waste piping must comply with the applicable sections regarding drainage and ventilation of this Code. No vent pipe coming from an indirect waste pipe may be combined with any vent pipe from the drainage system.

Indirect waste pipes whose lengths are greater than one and a half meters (1.5 m) and less than four and a half meters (4.5 m) must have their own trap, which does not require venting. If changes in direction are made in this pipe, cleanouts must be provided.

Floor drains serving cold storage rooms may be connected to a drain line that discharges into a receptor outside the floor. The fill level of the receptor must be at least fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) below the lowest point of the floor drain. Each floor drain must have its own trap and individual vent. Cleanouts must be installed if changes in direction of at least ninety degrees (90°) are made.

In butcher shop areas, meat markets, and fish markets, it is recommended to place grease traps and their respective traps before discharging into the corresponding drain.

No steam or hot water pipe (temperature greater than 60 °C) shall be connected directly to the drainage system. The discharge pipe from hot water or steam generators must be arranged as indicated in the Boiler Regulation, in such a way as to prevent the entry of pressurized condensate through the use of a blow-off pit or any other means approved by the health authority. Blow-off pits that drain into the building's drainage system must have adequate ventilation, and the drain must have a deep-seal trap that extends fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) below the pit.

The drain pipe of the blow-off pit and the vent pipe may be chosen based on the size of the generator's purge line, as indicated in Table 7.11.

Table 7.11 DIMENSIONS OF PIPING FOR PITS

Floor drains, pits, or interceptors constructed of concrete must have walls at least ten centimeters (0.10 m) thick, with an internal plaster coat of cement not less than thirteen millimeters (0.013 m) thick.

Floor drains or pits must have adequate access for cleaning.

The volume of water to be maintained in the pit may not be less than twice the amount of water purged from the boiler or boilers.

All wastewater that may cause environmental damage, damage or increase the maintenance costs of the sanitary drainage system, or that may affect treatment processes, must be pre-treated before being discharged into the sanitary sewer system according to the provisions of the Regulation for the Discharge and Reuse of Wastewater (Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales).

The pipe system transporting these waters from their point of origin to the treatment systems must be of an appropriate design and materials, so as to satisfy the requirements of the competent health authority.

Discharge pipes leaving the treatment systems or interceptors must comply with the requirements for common drains.

Any pipe receiving the discharge from fixtures that drain acidic or corrosive chemical substances must be made of suitable materials, such as chemical-resistant glass, silicone-coated iron pipe or vitrified clay, among others. All joints must be of the approved type and material.

Where practical, all these pipes must be accessible and installed as far away as possible from other pipes or equipment.

No chemical waste vent pipe shall be connected to the general ventilation system.

The indications of this section are not necessary in small photographic installations or X-ray darkrooms, or in small research laboratories where minimal quantities of adequately diluted chemicals are discharged.

7.8 INTERCEPTORS

When wastewater contains grease, oils, flammable materials, acidic or alkaline substances, sand, soil, or any other objectionable solid or liquid that could affect the proper functioning of the building's pipes or the public sanitary and storm sewers, the installation of interceptors or separators shall be necessary.

The capacity, type, dimensions, and location of the interceptors or separators shall be adequate to create optimal conditions for the separation of the objectionable solids or liquids referred to in the previous article.

Interceptors shall be located in places where they can be easily inspected and cleaned and, as far as possible, outside the buildings. Placing machinery or equipment on top of or immediately next to them that could impede their proper maintenance shall not be permitted. The inspection opening shall have a dimension such that it allows for adequate inspection and cleaning, as well as the entry of a person. The cleanout opening must be sealed to prevent the escape of gases and odors.

Grease separators or traps shall be installed in the drainage pipes of kitchen sinks, dishwashers, or other plumbing fixtures installed in restaurants, hotel kitchens, hospitals, and similar facilities, where there is a danger that grease will enter the drainage system in sufficient quantity to affect its proper functioning.

Grease interceptors and traps must comply with the following general requirements:

a. They must be installed in such a way as to be easily accessible for cleaning and near the fixture that discharges the greasy waste. Cleaning consists of the complete removal of all content, including floating materials, wastewater, sludge, and solids.

b. They shall be adequately sized to guarantee a sufficient water surface area for the rapid cooling and solidification of the grease. The minimum retention time for commercial and industrial establishments shall be twenty-four minutes (24 min), according to the actual maximum flow. For single-family dwellings, lower retention values may be used, or prefabricated traps with a volume appropriate for the intended occupancy. If prefabricated elements are not used, it is recommended to use the guidance provided in Annex A of this code.

c. Have a submerged inlet and outlet so that the grease can float to the surface without being disturbed by the discharge. It is recommended to install a T-branch at both the inlet and outlet, which shall have a diameter of at least seventy-five millimeters (0.075 m). The inlet T-branch shall extend into the liquid at least twenty-five percent (25%) and the outlet T-branch at least fifty percent (50%), both with reference to the depth of the trap.

d. The access cover must be sealed.

e. Have adequate ventilation that allows flow through the unit without creating odor problems. The ventilation pipe must be at least fifty millimeters (0.050 m).

f. For commercial uses, it is recommended that a perforated stainless steel tray with handles be installed at the bottom of the trap to facilitate grease removal.

g. Must have a total depth of at least eighty centimeters (0.80 m), leaving a free space between the liquid level and the top of at least twenty centimeters (0.20 m).

h. The ratio between length and width must be between 2:1 and 3:2.

i. Have a low-velocity flow in the outlet pipe.

j. Have access openings over the inlet, the outlet, and in each internal compartment of the grease interceptor.

k. The level difference between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe shall not be greater than five centimeters (0.05 m).

l. Designs with an attached deposit for grease storage may be accepted when the total capacity exceeds six hundred liters (0.6 m³) or where the establishment operates continuously for more than 16 hours a day.

m. The grease trap and the grease storage compartment shall be connected via an overflow weir, which must be 0.05 m above the water level.

The maximum grease accumulation volume shall be at least 1/3 of the total volume of the grease trap. See diagrams in Figures 7.5 and 7.6.

Grease interceptors must have at least two compartments; grease traps shall have only one. The intermediate dividing wall shall be located at a distance between 2/3 and 3/4 of the total length from the inlet wall. Communication between the chambers shall be carried out by means of a long-radius elbow or tee, of the same size as the inlet T, but not less than one hundred millimeters (0.10 m), placed on the side of the inlet compartment. This fitting must be installed at a minimum height equivalent to 28% of the liquid height and a maximum of 50%.

In addition, all interceptors and traps must have a small chamber at the outlet, which allows for the taking of effluent samples for analysis.

Grease traps must have a trap (sifón) with a water seal of at least fifty millimeters (0.05 m).

A grease trap may be used for the service of a single fixture when the horizontal distance between the outlet of the fixture and the trap does not exceed one meter and twenty centimeters (1.20 m) and the vertical distance is less than seventy-five centimeters (0.75 m).

The selection of the size of a grease trap must be based on its efficiency and the type and number of fixtures from which it receives discharge. A minimum capacity of 9.5 liters per person served is sufficient to achieve appropriate grease separation. The minimum permissible capacity must be approximately four hundred and seventy liters (470 L) for small installations serving up to 50 people. In smaller installations that use a septic tank, it is recommended to use the smaller-sized grease traps available on the market for single-family dwellings.

Each fixture that discharges into a grease trap must have its respective trap and vent.

In the case of interceptors that are installed far from the fixtures they serve, the guidelines of Appendix A may be followed.

Solids and floating-object interceptors shall be installed in places such as bottling plants, laundries, slaughterhouses, factories, and other establishments subject to the voluntary or accidental discharge of materials such as sand, soil, glass, hairs, threads, animal viscera, feathers, or other solids into the drainage system (see figure 7.7).

The solids interceptor shall be mandatorily installed before its connection to an existing sewer system.

Floor drains from several floors may be discharged into a single solids interceptor.

The construction and size of an interceptor shall comply with the following requirements:

a. It shall be constructed of brick, concrete, or other airtight material. The interceptor shall have an interior baffle so as to form at least two compartments.

b. The inlet pipe to the interceptor and the outlet pipe shall be of the same size, and not less than seventy-five millimeters (75 mm). Two openings of the same size as the outlet pipe shall be made in the baffle.

c. It shall have a water seal of at least fifteen centimeters (15 cm) on the effluent side.

d. It shall have a minimum dimension of two thousand square centimeters (0.2 m2) of net opening area of the inlet section, and a liquid depth of at least sixty centimeters (0.60 m).

e. For every nineteen liters per minute of inlet flow (19 L/min), above a flow rate of seventy-five liters per minute (75 L/min), the area of the interceptor inlet section shall be increased by nine hundred square centimeters (0.09 m2).

f. The outlet section shall have a minimum area equal to 50% of the area of the inlet section.

g. In places where there is also carryover of liquids, oils, or floating solids, the outlet section piping shall be introduced into the liquid by at least 50% of the height of the liquid level.

Solids interceptors of a design different from that set forth in this section may be installed, provided that the objective of this section and the requirements of the health authority responsible for ensuring compliance with current regulations regarding discharges into the sewer system (Ministry of Health, AyA, Municipalities) are met.

Fuel interceptors (oil, gasoline, diesel, and similar) shall be installed in the drainage system of buildings where there is a possibility of introducing oil or other flammable material into the drainage system, whether accidentally or voluntarily, such as service stations, automotive service centers, and vehicle washing stations, and other buildings at the discretion of the health authority. The installation of fuel interceptors shall be subject to the situations described in table 7.12 (see figures 7.8 and 7.9).

Table 7.12 SITUATIONS IN WHICH A FUEL INTERCEPTOR MUST BE INSTALLED

The interceptors shall comply with the following requirements:

a. Adequate ventilation shall be installed for each compartment, by means of a ventilation pipe of at least fifty millimeters (50 mm).

b. The ventilation shall be independent of the building's piping ventilation system and shall protrude at least three meters (3.0 m) above the floor level where it is projected, so that it is at a safe distance from any ignition source.

c. Under no circumstances shall the discharge of water from sanitary services into fuel interceptors be permitted.

d. The interceptor shall be vented on the drain side. This ventilation pipe shall not be connected to those venting the compartments.

e. The minimum diameter of the discharge piping shall be at least seventy-five millimeters (75 mm).

f. In the event that the interceptor requires an overflow pipe, a pipe of not less than fifty millimeters (50 mm) shall be installed, which shall discharge into a tank suitable for the storage of waste liquids, with a capacity of not less than two thousand liters (2000 L).

g. The liquid level in the interceptor shall have a minimum height of sixty centimeters (60 cm).

h. The inlet pipe shall not have any fittings. The outlet pipe shall be submerged within the liquid by at least 80% of the height of the liquid level. In the case of single-section interceptors, which are also used to collect solids, the outlet pipe shall be submerged less than 80%, depending on the type and quantity of solids to be retained, but not exceed 65% of the height of the liquid level.

i. The inlet piping to the interceptor shall have a water seal of at least thirty centimeters (30 cm) in height.

j. In cases where convenient, a backflow valve ("check" type) may be installed in the interceptor discharge piping.

In places where no more than three automobiles are kept or serviced (repair or washing), a single-chamber interceptor shall be installed, the capacity of which shall not be less than two hundred liters (200 L). For a greater number of cars, thirty liters (30 L) per vehicle shall be added to the above capacity, up to ten (10) vehicles.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, compliance with this article is not required in multi-family buildings where there is a parking lot for keeping fewer than five cars, and also in those establishments where the health authority indicates otherwise.

In automobile parking places, the interceptor capacity shall be proportional to the area of the surface that will be drained into the interceptor, such that it shall have a capacity of one hundred seventy liters (170 L) for the first two hundred eighty square meters (280 m2). For every additional ninety-two square meters (92 m2) of surface to be drained, the interceptor capacity shall be increased by twenty-eight liters (28 L).

The capacity of an interceptor installed in a car wash or automotive workshop shall be proportional to the area of the building that will be drained into the interceptor. For every ten square meters (10 m2) of surface to be drained, the interceptor shall have an effective capacity of thirty-two liters (32 L), and must have a capacity of not less than two hundred liters (200 L).

Interceptors to be installed in service stations shall comply with the requirements set forth in the Reglamento para la Regulación del Sistema de Almacenamiento y Comercialización de Hidrocarburos, Decreto Ejecutivo Nº 30131- MINAE-S (see figure 7.8).

7.9 PUMPING OF WASTEWATER AND STORMWATER

When wastewater or stormwater from the building cannot be discharged by gravity to the respective public network, a pumping system shall be installed for its automatic discharge to said network (see figure 7.10 and 7.11).

The pumping equipment shall be installed in a site protected against floods, easily accessible, and well-ventilated, with ample facilities for its inspection and maintenance.

The pumping equipment shall be of specific design for wastewater.

Wastewater and stormwater pumping wells or stations shall be impermeable, with smooth walls, resistant to internal and external pressures, and resistant to possible chemical actions that the contained water may produce. The piping connections to the pumping well shall be such that they do not cause leaks or the rupture of its walls.

For the sizing of the well, the following recommendations may be used:

a. In general, the retention period of wastewater in the well shall be a maximum of ten (10) minutes.

b. When the discharge is estimated to be less than the average discharge, it is advisable to adopt a retention period equal to or less than 30 minutes, since if the retention time were greater, bad odors, gas release, and sludge accumulation at the bottom would occur.

c. It is recommended that the difference between the maximum and minimum water level not be greater than one meter. However, in small pumping stations, a smaller value may be adopted, with prior technical and operational justification for the case.

d. The relationship between the operating periods, the pumping flow rate, and the flow rate arriving at the well are shown below:

Operating period (P1):

Operating period (P2):

Where, CUTIL = useful capacity of the well QB = pumped flow rate of the well q = flow rate discharged from the well P1 + P2 = pump operating cycle between two consecutive starts e. The useful capacity of the well is the part between the axis of the wastewater arrival pipe and an elevation, located at a minimum distance of three times the diameter above the pump inlet mouth or the suction pipe, if one exists.

f. The bottom of the well shall have a surface as small as possible to minimize solid deposits.

The wastewater pumping well shall comply with the following requirements:

a. Its capacity shall be no greater than the volume equivalent to 12 hours of the average daily flow, nor less than the equivalent to four hours thereof.

b. It shall be provided with a ventilation pipe, which shall extend above the floor to a height of at least two and a half meters (2.5 m), or it may be integrated into the building's ventilation system, provided conditions permit. The ventilation pipe must be capable of maintaining atmospheric pressure conditions inside the well, under normal operating conditions. The sizing of the ventilation pipe shall be carried out in accordance with what is indicated in section 8.10.4, but it shall never be less than thirty-eight millimeters (38 mm) in nominal diameter. In pumping systems where ejector systems are used, the well vent pipe shall not be combined with any other vent pipe.

c. It shall be equipped with a metal cover, sealed with a rubber gasket or other similar material, so as to allow access for cleaning, maintenance, and repairs.

d. It shall be equipped with an access ladder.

e. It shall be provided with a vent and overflow pipe.

f. When there are two wells, one to receive the wastewater, called a "wet well", and another for the installation of the pumps, called a "dry well", the dry well shall have natural or mechanical ventilation in those cases where, due to its depth and characteristics, gas accumulation problems may occur.

g. Facilities shall be provided to eliminate water that may accumulate in the dry well.

h. The well bottom shall have a slope of between 30º to 45º (55% to 100%) towards the pump suction mouth.

The pumps for wastewater pumping systems shall comply with the following requirements:

a. Be of special design so that adequate protection against obstructions is guaranteed during their operation. It is recommended that the impellers be open.

b. Their capacity shall be at least twice the maximum flow rate received by the pumping well.

c. Flow rates shall be determined in accordance with sections 7.3.1.1 and 7.3.2.

d. Pump suction pipes shall be installed so as to avoid excessive turbulence near the suction point. For dimensioning purposes, it is advisable to adopt velocities not exceeding one hundred fifty centimeters per second (150 cm/s) in the suction section and two hundred forty centimeters per second (240 cm/s) in the discharge section. The diameter of the suction pipe shall be designed according to the recommended pump type.

e. It is recommended that the pump operating periods have a maximum of three to five starts for vertical and horizontal pumps. For submersible pumps, the permitted number of starts per hour is a maximum of ten, for small pumps (less than 55 kW). For large pumps (more than 55 kW), the time of an operating cycle shall not be less than twenty (20) minutes. The operating cycle shall never be less than five (5) minutes.

f. The pump discharge pipe shall be connected to the building's drain collector at a minimum distance of three meters (3.0 m) from the nearest downspout downstream of the connection, in order to prevent turbulence and air entry into the line.

g. The pipes shall be equipped with gate valves to remove or install the equipment, and with check valves to prevent reverse flow. For sizes larger than one hundred millimeters (100 mm), these valves shall be of suitable materials that the market offers.

h. The pipes shall be installed so as to avoid noise and the transmission of vibrations. The joints between the pump and the discharge pipe shall be of the flexible type.

i. The pumping equipment shall be adequately fixed by means of plates, bolts, and damping joints to prevent the transmission of vibrations and for their easy removal.

j. To determine the time and frequency of pump operation, the characteristics of its motor shall be considered. As a general rule, it is recommended that the pump operating time not be less than two minutes (2.0 min.) and that its operating frequency be less than five times per hour.

k. It shall comply with what is dictated in sections 6.6.2 and 6.6.3, in the corresponding articles.

The motors of the pumping equipment shall have automatic controls activated by the levels in the pumping well. Manual controls shall also be provided. The well shall be emptied to the minimum fixed level each time the equipment operates. Likewise, safety devices shall be provided to prevent overfilling.

When the normal power supply cannot guarantee continuous service to the pumping equipment, it shall have an alternate energy source.

When wastewater contains grease, oils, flammable materials, sand, or other objectionable solids or liquids, the installation of interceptors before the pumping well shall be mandatory, which shall comply with the provisions of Section 7.8.

In the case of pumping stations that receive discharges from toilets and urinals, they shall also comply with the following:

a. It shall have a discharge capacity of at least seventy-five liters per minute (75 L/min).

b. In single-family residences, the pump or ejector shall be capable of handling solids with a diameter of thirty-eight millimeters (38 mm). The discharge pipe shall be at least fifty millimeters (50 mm) in diameter.

c. In other buildings, the pump or ejector shall be capable of handling solids with a diameter of fifty millimeters (50 mm). The discharge pipe shall be at least seventy-five millimeters (75 mm).

Drainage collectors that receive the discharge from any pump or ejector shall be adequately sized to prevent any overload. For every seventy-six milliliters per second (76 ml/s) of flow from the pumping equipment, two fixture units shall be added to size the drainage.

In the case of public-use buildings, two pumping systems or ejectors shall be installed, so that they operate independently of each other, as a way of preventing any mechanical failure or system overload.

7.10 INSPECTION AND TESTING OF WASTEWATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

Wastewater drainage systems shall be inspected and subjected to the tests specified in this section. Compliance with this requirement shall be the responsibility of the professional responsible for the work.

Wastewater drain branches, downspouts, and collectors shall be subjected to the water test or the air test as described in the following articles. These tests may be performed by sections or for the entire system.

For the water test, proceed as follows:

a. No sanitary fixture shall be installed. The pipes to be tested shall be free of foreign materials and debris.

b. Plugs shall be placed in all openings of the pipe to be tested, except at the highest point.

c. The pipe is filled at the highest point; after a prudent time, to account for water losses, the pipe is filled until it overflows.

d. The pipe shall be subjected to a pressure of not less than twenty-nine point four kilopascals (29.4 kPa) or the equivalent of 3 meters of water column.

e. The sections or the system shall be accepted when the water volume remains constant for fifteen minutes. If the result is not satisfactory, the necessary corrections shall be made, and the test shall be repeated until no leaks are evident.

Complementary works, such as wastewater tanks, septic tanks (tanques sépticos), interceptors, separators, manholes (cajas de registro), and ash pits, shall be subjected to a water test as follows:

a. They are filled with water and a prudent time is given to account for absorption losses.

b. They shall be filled again and allowed to rest for 48 hours, after which the water level shall not drop more than twenty-five millimeters (25 mm).

SANITARY VENTILATION 8.1 GENERAL STANDARDS

The wastewater drainage system of every building must be provided with an auxiliary system of ventilation pipes, designed in such a way that gases and odors from all drainage pipes circulate upwards and escape to the atmosphere above the building.

In addition, this system must allow the entry and exit of air from all parts of the system, so that siphoning, aspiration, or back-pressure conditions do not cause a loss of trap seals.

The diameters, arrangement, and installation of the ventilation pipes must be chosen so as to limit the pressure variation in the wastewater drainage system to a maximum of two hundred forty-five pascals (245 Pa), above or below atmospheric pressure.

The materials of the ventilation system pipes, their joints, and connections shall comply with what is specified in section 7.2, in the articles applicable to them.

The water seal of every sanitary appliance must be protected against siphoning through the proper use of vent branches, auxiliary vent pipes, circuit venting, wet venting, or a combination of these methods, in accordance with what is specified in this section.

The main ventilation pipes and the wastewater downspouts shall be extended, without reducing their diameter, to connect to a vent extension through the roof, or to a vent collector, so as to provide ventilation to all parts of the drainage system with air circulation by gravity.

Horizontal ventilation pipes shall have a uniform slope of not less than 0.5%, so that any condensate is carried to the drain.

Vent pipes connected to horizontal sections of the drainage system shall rise vertically or at an angle of not less than forty-five degrees (45º) from the horizontal, to a height of not less than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) above the overflow level of the highest sanitary appliance they serve, before beginning their horizontal run. In the event that the height is less than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) above the overflow level, the installation must be suitable to perform a drainage function.

The discharge into a drain downspout that is opposite and in front of another branch serving one or more toilets must be made above the latter, or at a distance of at least twenty centimeters (20 cm), if the connection is made below the branch serving the toilets.

The vent pipe connection shall be located above the weir level of the corresponding trap. With the exception of vent pipes for traps of those sanitary fixtures that automatically replenish the corresponding hydraulic seals, such as toilets and other similar sanitary fixtures.

In order to prevent unfavorable effects on drainage systems due to pressures produced by soap and detergent suds, in buildings of two or more stories where laundry sinks, mechanical washing machines, kitchen sinks, and similar are installed, it is recommended that the conduits or drain branches receiving the liquid waste from said fixtures not be connected in the suds pressure zones indicated below:

a. In the downspout segment between its base and a height of forty (40) times its diameter.

b. In the pipe segment between the foot of the downspout and a length of ten (10) times the diameter of said pipe, measured along it.

c. In changes of direction of wastewater downspouts, the inclined part of which forms an angle greater than 60º with the vertical, as follows:

c.1. In the downspout segment, before the change of direction, forty (40) times the diameter of the downspout upstream of said change.

c.2. In the inclined section of the downspout, ten times the diameter of said section, downstream of the change of direction.

c.3. In the inclined section of the downspout, forty (40) times the diameter of said section, upstream of the change of direction to vertical.

When it is not possible to avoid connections of conduits and drain branches in the indicated zones, auxiliary vent pipes must be planned, the diameter of which shall be equal to that of the main vent pipe or three-quarters (¾) of the diameter of the pipe where the suds pressure occurs, in the event that the diameter of the latter is less than that of the main vent pipe, and in no case less than fifty millimeters (50 mm), and installed in accordance with what is established in this chapter.

8.2 VENT TERMINALS

Ventilation pipes shall be extended to the outside air and above the roof of the building, or they may be connected to a main vent pipe, or to a vent collector, or to the extension of the corresponding wastewater downspout that connects them to the outside air (see figure 8.1).

Vent terminals must extend vertically through the roofs and must terminate at a distance of at least fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) above them, and at a distance of at least thirty centimeters (0.30 m) from any vertical surface.

The end of the vent terminals must be covered with a strainer that prevents the entry of animals and insects.

When vent terminals end on an accessible terrace or one with a specific use, the pipes must be extended to a height above the floor of at least two hundred fifty centimeters (2.50 m), if it is located within a radius of three meters (3.0 m) from any point on the terrace.

The mouths of the vent terminals must be located at a distance of at least ninety centimeters (0.90 m) above any window, door, or any air intake of the building.

The vent terminal installed adjacent to a taller existing building must be such that it avoids nuisance to the occupants of the taller building. In the case in question, any extension, element, or work necessary for this shall be at the expense of the owner of the shorter building.

In cases where the designer decides, the terminal may be made on the side of the building. When this condition occurs, the minimum required height shall be 2.40 meters above the finished floor level.

When it is decided to extend the pipe above roof level, this pipe shall have its vent terminal with a grate or preferably with a horizontal nipple and a 45-degree cut.

8.3 MAIN VENT PIPE

Every wastewater downspout that receives the discharge from drain branches coming from two or more floors that require individual venting, circuit venting, or venting by means of auxiliary pipes must be provided with a main vent pipe, with the following characteristics:

a. The main vent pipe shall be installed as straight as possible and without diameter reductions.

b. The lower end shall be connected to the corresponding wastewater downspout below the drain branch connection of the lowest level (see figure 8.1.b).

c. The upper end shall be connected to the corresponding wastewater downspout (see figure 8.1.c), at a height not less than fifteen centimeters (0.15 m) above the overflow line of the highest sanitary fixture, or several vent pipes may be connected to a vent collector (see figure 8.1.d), from which a single vent pipe will exit towards the roof; failing that, it shall be extended to the exterior of the building by means of a vent terminal (see figure 8.1.a).

d. It is permissible to perform wet venting (see section 8.5), between the lower end of the vent pipe and the downspout, when said pipe receives the discharge from a drain branch, unless it comes from toilets.

When it is desired to install a vent collector to which the extensions of the wastewater downspouts or the corresponding main vent pipes are connected, such connections shall be made at the upper end of said pipes and never less than one hundred fifty centimeters (1.50 m) above the last floor of the building served by them. The vent collector shall extend above the roof, complying with what is established in section 8.2.

8.4 INDIVIDUAL VENTING OF FIXTURES

The traps and water seals of all sanitary appliances must have individual venting, unless the special venting methods indicated in the following articles under the headings of "wet venting", "stack venting", "circuit venting", and "single venting" can be used, in accordance with the special conditions given for such installations (see figure 8.2.a).

In a domestic installation, in the bathroom group, at least the lavatory must have the vent.

Every sanitary fixture connected to a drain branch downstream of a toilet must be vented individually, with the exception of what is indicated in articles 8.4.3 and 8.4.5.

A common vent may serve as an individual vent for no more than two fixture traps. This common vent must be connected at the junction of the two fixture drains and rise vertically from the connection before running horizontally.

The vent connection shall be installed in such a way that the distance between the water seal and the corresponding vent connection is not less than two diameters of the drain pipe and not greater than what is specified in table 8.1. This distance shall be measured along the drain conduit, from the outlet of the water seal to the vent pipe connection.

The vent connection for the fixture drain must be above the overflow level of the fixture trap, except in the case of toilet and urinal drains of the floor outlet type and models with traps of the same type for service sinks.

The vent connection to a horizontal wastewater pipe must be made in the upper half thereof.

Individual vents must be at least thirty-two millimeters (0.032 m) in diameter and not less than half the diameter of the drain of the fixture to which they are connected, except in the case where a fixture drain of one hundred millimeters (0.10 m) in diameter is installed for a toilet or similar fixture, in which an individual vent of thirty-eight millimeters (0.038 m) in diameter may be installed.

Table 8.1 MAXIMUM DISTANCE BETWEEN THE VENT CONNECTION AND THE TRAPS | Nominal diameter of fixture drain pipe (mm) | Maximum horizontal distance between the water seal and the vent pipe (m) | | --- | --- | | 32 | 0.75 | | 38 | 1.10 | | 50 | 1.50 | | 75 | 1.80 | | 100 | 3.00 | 8.5 WET VENTING (VENTILACIÓN HÚMEDA)

In a group of plumbing fixtures installed on the same floor, the drain pipe into which up to two (2) elevated sanitary fixtures, for example, lavatories, sinks, kitchen sinks, or others, whose total number of discharge units is not greater than four (4), discharge may be used as a wet vent pipe for one or several traps of the other plumbing fixtures in the group, provided that the following requirements are met (see figure 8.3):

a. The diameter of the wet vent pipe shall be at least fifty millimeters (0.05 m).

b. The total discharge units (d.u.) of the fixtures that constitute the group shall not be greater than fourteen (14).

c. The installation of more than one water closet in the group shall not be planned.

d. The length of the drain pipes of each fixture, up to its connection with the wet vent pipe, shall not exceed what is required in Table 8.1.

e. The main vent pipe, to which the vent pipes and branches of the fixtures whose discharges serve as wet venting are connected, shall be sized based on the total number of discharge units of the plumbing fixtures that constitute the group.

In case of using wet venting to vent the drain of a water closet, the horizontal drainage branch must connect to the soil stack at a level equal to or lower than that of the water closet drain. It is also permitted that the wet vent branch connects to the upper half of the horizontal portion of the water closet drain, at an angle not greater than forty-five degrees (45°) with the direction of flow.

On the top floor of a building, the drain of a lavatory or a kitchen sink may serve as a vent for the traps of bathtubs, showers, and water closets, provided that the following conditions are met:

a. The lavatory or kitchen sink has an individual vent.

b. In no case shall diameters smaller than thirty-eight millimeters (0.038 m) be used as the vent pipe.

c. No more than one discharge unit (1 d.u.) draining through a thirty-eight millimeter (0.038 m) wet vent, or no more than four discharge units (4 d.u.) drain through a fifty millimeter (0.050 m) wet vent.

d. The length between the wet vent and the water seal of the fixtures must comply with what is established in Table 8.1.

e. See illustrative diagram in figure 8.6 a.

On the top floor of a building, the drain of one or several lavatories with individual venting may serve as a wet vent for the traps of one or several bathtubs or showers, under the following conditions:

a. The wet vent pipe and its extension to the vent stack shall be at least fifty millimeters (0.050 m) in diameter.

b. Each water closet below the top floor is individually vented.

c. The length between the wet vent and the water seal of the fixtures complies with what is established in Table 8.1.

d. The vertical drain pipe that performs the wet vent function shall have its diameters in accordance with Table 8.2.

On floors where the venting of bathroom groups is performed via wet venting, the venting of water closets installed below the floor (where the bathroom group is located) may be performed by connecting the horizontal drainage pipe of the water closet to a pipe coming from a wet vent. This connection must be made with a pipe of at least fifty millimeters (0.05 m), and it must connect to the upper half of the water closet drain, at an angle not greater than 45° with respect to the direction of flow (see figure 8.6 b).

Table 8.2 DIAMETER OF THE WET VENT PIPE FOR BATHROOM GROUPS

8.6 STACK VENTING (VENTILACIÓN DE BAJANTE)

Where a fixture discharges directly into a soil stack at a level above all other drain connections to the stack, the stack extension may serve as a vent for the fixture trap, under the following conditions:

a. The connection of the fixture drain to the stack is above the level of the lowest part of the trap, except for drains of water closets and urinals of the floor-outlet type.

b. The distance between the fixture trap and the connection with the stack is in accordance with the distances given in Table 8.1.

c. In the case where water closets are vented, this method may be used provided that the following requirements are met:

c.1. The stack is at least one hundred millimeters (0.1 m) in diameter.

c.2. The stack must not be served by more than two water closets.

Where two fixtures placed at the same level discharge directly into a soil stack at a level above all other drain connections to the stack, the traps of both fixtures may be vented by the stack extension, under the following conditions:

a. The soil stack has a diameter greater than the drain of the highest fixture and not less than the drain of the lowest fixture.

b. Both drains have their traps within the distances stipulated in Table 8.1.

Except as provided in articles 8.6-1 and 8.6-2, a bathroom group (water closet, lavatory, and shower) and a kitchen sink, all on the same floor, may be installed with minimum venting of thirty-eight millimeters (0.038 m) for the traps of these fixtures, when it is a single-story building or on the top floor of a building, under the following conditions:

a. Each fixture drain has an independent connection to the soil stack.

b. The drains of the water closet and of the bathtub or shower connect to the stack at the same level.

c. The distances stipulated in Table 8.1 are met.

Note: In this case the extension of the soil stack functions as a vent.

8.7 CIRCUIT VENTING (VENTILACIÓN EN CIRCUITO)

When a horizontal drainage branch of uniform diameter serves as a drain for a number of plumbing fixtures (see figure 8.2b), not greater than eight (8), placed in contiguous alignment, circuit venting may be used, which consists of the following:

a. In the case of the top floor or only floor of the building, the vent pipe shall begin in the drain between the penultimate and last fixture, counting from the soil stack, and shall connect to the main vent pipe.

b. On lower floors, the vent pipe shall be supplemented with a relief vent pipe connected to the drainage branch between the stack and the first plumbing fixture.

c. Lavatories or similar fixtures may be connected in a circuit or loop, with the condition that the traps of such fixtures are protected by individual vents.

Circuit or loop vent pipes shall have at least half the diameter of the horizontal soil branch to which they are connected and in no case less than thirty-eight millimeters (0.038 m).

8.8 RELIEF VENTS (VENTILACIONES DE ALIVIO)

In high-rise buildings, the main vent pipe shall be connected to the soil stack with yoke vents at least once every ten floors, counting from the top floor downwards.

The diameter of the yoke vent pipe shall be equal to that of the main vent pipe, and shall never be less than the soil stack.

The connections of the yoke vent pipe to the soil stack shall be made with wye fittings at a point below the horizontal branch coming from the corresponding floor.

The connection to the main vent pipe shall be made by means of a wye fitting, and not less than one meter (1.0 m) above the floor level of the corresponding floor (see figure 8.7).

When a soil stack has in its path a change of direction of more than forty-five degrees (45°) from the vertical, it shall be necessary to vent the sections of the stack that are above or below said change. These sections may be vented by means of yoke vents, one for the upper section immediately before the change and another for the lower section. When the change of direction of the stack is less than forty-five degrees (45°) from the vertical, the yoke venting shall not be necessary.

8.9 VENTING BY MEANS OF A SINGLE STACK (VENTILACIÓN MEDIANTE BAJANTE ÚNICO)

The soil stack may be used as the sole vent pipe, known as a single-stack drainage system (see figures 8.2c, 8.4, and 8.5), if the following conditions are met:

a. The plumbing fixtures must be at a distance not less than sixty centimeters center-to-center (0.60 m) and each drain shall be connected individually to the branch and this directly to the stack.

b. The plumbing fixtures must have traps with a water seal of seventy-five millimeters (0.075 m), except for the water closet, whose seal may be fifty millimeters (0.05 m).

c. The discharge into a soil stack that is opposite to another branch serving one or more water closets must be above the latter, or at a distance of at least twenty centimeters (0.20 m) if the connection is made below the branch serving the water closets.

d. The maximum lengths, diameters, and slopes of the drains of the plumbing fixtures shall be given according to tables 8.3 to 8.5.

e. The drain must be joined to the horizontal branch pipe by means of long-radius elbows. The distance between the connection of the last plumbing fixture and the horizontal branch pipe (at the base of the stack) must be not less than:

e.1. Forty-five centimeters (0.45 m) between the vertical and the drain, for buildings up to three stories.

e.2. Seventy-five centimeters (0.75 m) between the vertical and the drain for buildings up to five stories.

e.3. Three meters (3.0 m) between the vertical and the drain for buildings of more than five stories.

f. The soil stack must be extended as a vent extension, as stipulated in section 8.2.

g. Yoke vents shall be provided in accordance with what is stipulated in section 8.8.

Table 8.3 MAXIMUM LENGTH AND SLOPE OF DRAINAGE BRANCHES FOR THE SINGLE-STACK SYSTEM | Fixture | No. fixtures | Trap diameter (mm) | Max. branch length (m) | Branch diameter (mm) | Branch slope (%) | Elbows in discharge branch | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Lavatory | 1 | 32 | Table 8.4 | 32 | Table 8.4 | No more than 3 radius>75mm | | | | Lavatory | 1 | 32 | 3.0 | 38 | 1.8-4.5 | No more than 2 r>75mm | | | | Lavatory | <5 | 32 | 3.0 m.b. d.b. | 0.7 | 50 m.b. d.b. | 32 | 1.8-4.5 | None | | Shower, laundry sink, kitchen sink, bathtub | 1 | 38 38 | 3.0 4.0 | 38 50 | 1.8-9.0 1.8-9.0 | Radius>75mm Radius>75mm | | | | Washing machine | 1 | 38 | 3.0 | 38 | 1.8-4.5 | Radius>75mm | | | | Washing machine | 1 | 38 | 4.0 | 50 | 1.8-4.5 | Radius>75mm | | | | Water closet | 1 | 75 | 6.0 | 75 | >1.8 | Long radius | | | | Water closet | <8 | 75 | 15.0 | 100 | 0.9-9.0 | Long radius | | | | Individual urinal | 1 | 38 | 3.0 | 38 | 1.8-9.0 | Radius>75mm | | | | Individual urinal | 5 | 38 | 4.0 | 50 m.b. m.b. | 40 | 1.8-9.0 | Radius>75mm | | | Trough urinal | - | 62-75 | 3.0 | 62-75 | 1.8-9.0 | Long radius | | | Notes:

. The branch length is measured from the trap to the connection with the stack.

. m.b.: main branch; d.b.: discharge branch.

. The radii of curvature in the last column refer to the centerline of the fitting.

Table 8.4 MAXIMUM LENGTH AND SLOPE OF THE DRAIN PIPE OF A 32 mm FIXTURE IN SINGLE-STACK SYSTEMS

Table 8.5 DIMENSIONS OF DRAINAGE PIPES FOR A SINGLE-STACK SYSTEM | Diameter of soil stack (mm) | Discharge units (d.u.) | Diameter of vent pipe (mm) | | | | | | | | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 32 | 38 | 50 | 62 | 75 | 100 | 125 | 150 | 200 | 250 | 300 | | | | Maximum length of vent pipe (m) | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 32 | 2 | 9 | | | | | | | | | | | | 38 | 2 | 9 | | | | | | | | | | | | 38 | 8 | 15 | 46 | | | | | | | | | | | 38 | 10 | 9 | 30 | | | | | | | | | | | 50 | 12 | 9 | 23 | 61 | | | | | | | | | | 50 | 20 | 8 | 15 | 46 | | | | | | | | | | 62 | 42 | n.p. | 9 | 30 | 91 | | | | | | | | | 75 | 10 | n.p. | 13 | 44 | 108 | 317 | | | | | | | | 75 | 21 | n.p. | 10 | 36 | 82 | 245 | | | | | | | | 75 | 53 | n.p. | 8 | 29 | 70 | 207 | | | | | | | | 75 | 102 | n.p. | 8 | 26 | 64 | 189 | | | | | | | | 100 | 43 | n.p. | n.p. | 11 | 26 | 70 | 297 | | | | | | | 100 | 140 | n.p. | n.p. | 8 | 20 | 69 | 229 | | | | | | | 100 | 320 | n.p. | n.p. | 7 | 17 | 50 | 194 | | | | | | | 100 | 530 | n.p. | n.p. | 6 | 15 | 48 | 177 | | | | | | | 125 | 190 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 9 | 25 | 98 | 300 | | | | | | 125 | 490 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 6 | 19 | 75 | 232 | | | | | | 125 | 940 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 5 | 16 | 63 | 204 | | | | | | 125 | 1400 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 5 | 15 | 58 | 178 | | | | | | 150 | 800 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 10 | 40 | 122 | 306 | | | | | 150 | 1100 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 8 | 30 | 94 | 236 | | | | | 150 | 2000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 7 | 26 | 79 | 200 | | | | | 150 | 2900 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 6 | 23 | 73 | 161 | | | | | 200 | 1800 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 9 | 29 | 73 | 207 | | | | 200 | 3400 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 7 | 28 | 56 | 219 | | | | 200 | 5600 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 6 | 19 | 47 | 184 | | | | 200 | 7600 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 5 | 17 | 43 | 169 | | | | 250 | 4000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 9 | 24 | 93 | 293 | | | 250 | 7200 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 7 | 18 | 72 | 224 | | | 250 | 11000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 6 | 16 | 81 | 191 | | | 250 | 15000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 5 | 14 | 55 | 174 | | | 300 | 7300 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 9 | 37 | 118 | 287 | | 300 | 13000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 7 | 29 | 90 | 219 | | 300 | 20000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 6 | 24 | 78 | 188 | | 300 | 26000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 5 | 22 | 69 | 169 | | 375 | 15000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 12 | 38 | 93 | | 375 | 25000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 9 | 29 | 72 | | 375 | 38000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 8 | 25 | 61 | | 375 | 50000 | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | n.p. | 7 | 23 | 55 | Notes:

This table refers to nominal diameters n.p.= diameter not permitted d.u.= discharge units 1. Additional vent stacks shall have a connection with the soil stack every two floors.

2. Each bathroom group consists of one water closet, one shower, one lavatory, one kitchen sink, and one laundry sink.

8.10 SIZING ASPECTS OF THE VENT SYSTEM (ASPECTOS DE DIMENSIONAMIENTO DEL SISTEMA DE VENTILACIÓN)

Branches that connect more than one individual vent to a vent stack or to a vertical vent must conform to the values indicated in table 8.6. When determining the size of that pipe, the column titled Diameter of soil stack must be ignored and the diameter must be based on the number of discharge units connected to the vent pipe and on its developed length. This length is measured from the connection of the vent branch with the main vent stack to the connection of the drain of the farthest fixture served.

Table 8.6 SIZE OF VENT STACKS AND BRANCHES | Type | Stack diameter (mm) | Drain for one bathroom group on each floor | Drain for two bathroom groups on each floor | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | One- or two-story dwellings | 75 | Single stack | | | Buildings | | | | | Up to 5 | 100 | Single stack | | | 6 to 10 | 100 | Single stack | 50 mm vent | | 11 to 15 | 100 | Single stack | 50 mm vent | | 16 to 20 | 100 | 38 mm vent | 62 mm vent | | Up to 12 | 125 | 38 mm vent | Single stack | | 12 to 15 | 125 | Single stack | 50 mm vent | | Up to 25 | 150 | Single stack | Single stack | 1. Additional vent stacks shall have a connection with the soil stack every two floors.

2. Each bathroom group consists of one water closet, one shower, one lavatory, one kitchen sink, and one laundry sink.

The diameters of the vent pipes for sump pits and sewage receiving tanks of buildings must be sized as vent branches.

The sections of a vent header and its vent extension through the roof must be in accordance with Table 8.6. When determining the size of that pipe, the column titled diameter of soil stack must be ignored and the diameter must be based on the sum of the discharge units of the sections vented by that section of the header. The developed length is the length of the vent stack with the greatest total length to the open air.

The size of vent stacks is determined in accordance with table 8.6, based on the size of the soil stacks served by them, on the discharge units of these stacks, and on the developed length of the vent stack. Such total length must be measured from the lowest connection of the vent stack with the soil stack, to the vent terminal in the open air.

RAINWATER COLLECTION AND EVACUATION SYSTEMS (SISTEMAS DE RECOLECCIÓN Y EVACUACIÓN DE AGUAS DE LLUVIA) 9.1 GENERAL STANDARDS

Rainwater from roofs, flat roofs, and paved or impermeable areas of buildings must be conveyed to public rainwater collection systems using a collection system independent from that of wastewater. The exception is when rainwater from a single-family dwelling may be discharged towards the public street, only when it does not cause inconvenience to other neighbors or cause contamination.

Discharging stormwater into the public sanitary sewer network or into the building's wastewater evacuation network is not permitted.

When separate sanitary and storm drainage systems exist on the same property, these may be located together in the same trench.

For rainwater collection and evacuation systems, it is recommended to employ a green infrastructure approach and perform low-impact and source-control designs, seeking to promote infiltration, increase the time of entry to the storm system, and decrease the flow rate to be discharged into the public storm sewer system.

9.2 MATERIALS FOR STORM DRAIN PIPES AND FITTINGS

In drain pipes for rainwater located inside buildings, ductile iron, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, or other corrosion-resistant materials designed for that purpose must be used, with prior approval from the sanitary authority. Rainwater downspouts placed externally to the walls may be ductile iron or galvanized iron sheets. PVC pipes may be used provided they are not directly exposed to sunlight, and may be protected with paint.

Gutters or collection channels of roofs and flat roofs within the building area may be of galvanized iron sheets, PVC, or other suitable materials for such purpose.

The use of concrete pipes will be permitted only for the construction of buried collectors located outside the construction area and away from the foundation of the building structure.

The use of concrete or masonry channels in the patios and exterior gardens of the building will be permitted.

Storm drain pipes and fittings must comply with the standards stipulated in section 7.2.

9.3 STANDARDS FOR THE CALCULATION OF STORM DRAIN PIPES

For determining the design flow rates of stormwater drainage systems in buildings, the use of the rational method is recommended:

Where, Q = design flow rate of the pipe, downspout, or drain channel (L/s) i = rainfall intensity (mm/hour) A = tributary drainage area (m2) C = runoff coefficient (dimensionless) For determining the above parameters, the values given below are recommended:

a. Runoff coefficient. For estimating the runoff coefficient, the values indicated in Table 9.1 are recommended; however, the professional responsible for the design may use other values accepted by the good practices of the profession.

The values indicated in Table 9.1 correspond to return periods equal to or less than ten years. Less frequent storms with higher intensities require the modification of the runoff coefficient because infiltration and other losses have a proportionally smaller effect on runoff. The adjustment of the runoff coefficient for major storms can be made by multiplying the value of C by the value of the frequency factor Cf indicated in Table 9.2. The product of C×Cf must not exceed one (1.00).

Table 9.1 RUNOFF COEFFICIENTS IN THE RATIONAL FORMULA

Table 9.2 FREQUENCY FACTORS FOR THE RUNOFF COEFFICIENT

b. Intensity of rainfall. The intensity of the rainfall is a function of the frequency or return period of the design storm or downpour and of its duration. In the critical case, the duration of the rainfall is taken equal to the time of concentration of the tributary area. The intensity of the precipitation shall be estimated from the intensity-duration-frequency curve (IDF curve) corresponding to the meteorological station that the professional responsible for the design of the storm drainage system, through the corresponding hydrological study, considers as representative for the project area. In case the IDF curves of the station are not available, the values indicated in Tables 9.3 and 9.4 may be used.

c. Return period. The frequency or return period of the design downpour shall be determined in accordance with the damages, losses, or nuisances that periodic flooding may cause to the occupants of the building. It is recommended to use at least a return period of 10 years.

Table 9.3 RAINFALL INTENSITIES (mm/hr) FOR A RETURN PERIOD OF 10 YEARS

Table 9.4 RAINFALL INTENSITIES (mm/hr) FOR A RETURN PERIOD OF 25 YEARS

d. Time of concentration. In general, in small urbanized areas (less than 1 Ha), the time of concentration is small and, for practical purposes, can be assumed to be less than five minutes. Consequently, in these small urbanized areas the time of concentration can be considered equal to five minutes. For larger areas, the following formulas can be used:

For an inclined plane:

Where, tC = time of concentration (minutes) n = Manning's roughness factor of the inclined plane (see values in Table 9.5) L = length of the inclined plane (m) S = slope of the inclined plane (m/m) ie = effective rainfall precipitation (mm/hour), approximately equal to C*i.

For a rectangular channel that receives water laterally from an inclined plane:

Where, Q = total flow drained by the channel (m3/s) b = channel width (m) n = Manning's roughness factor of the inclined plane (see values in Table 9.5) LC = channel length (m) SC = bottom slope of the channel (m/m)

For determining the diameters of the horizontal rainwater drain pipes and channels, the indications of section 7.3.3 shall be followed. It will be accepted in this case that for the design flow the discharge fills at most 3/4 of the height of the collector or drain channel.

Table 9.5 MANNING'S ROUGHNESS ON INCLINED PLANES

For determining the diameters of the rainwater downspouts, table 9.6 shall be used. As a practical rule, one square centimeter of downspout cross-sectional area per square meter of roof area can be used.

9.4 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS

In the construction of rainwater systems, the specifications established for wastewater pipes in section 7.4 and the following articles must be complied with.

It is recommended that storm drains, cleanouts, and other rainwater receptors are equipped with a sand trap when they are situated in patios or terraces.

Stormwater sumps and receptors must be provided with protective grates against the entrainment of leaves, paper, trash, and similar materials. The total free area of the grates shall be at least twice the area of the drain orifice. For diameters greater than 100 mm, the respective hydraulic calculation must be performed.

In those cases in which stormwater collectors cannot discharge by gravity, a collection tank and a pumping system for automatic discharge must be provided, or an alternative system that ensures the building will not be affected by flooding.

Table 9.6 MAXIMUM FLOW RATES IN STORMWATER DRAINAGE DOWNSPOUTS

Notes:

(1) For non-circular downspouts, an equivalent area may be used.

(2) Flow rates estimated assuming control at the downspout inlet and without obstructions.

In the case of using a stormwater collection tank, its volume shall be chosen so that it is capable of storing at minimum the runoff resulting from precipitation for an event with a return period of 10 years and a duration of 30 minutes. The volume shall be estimated using the following expression:

Where, Vt = volume of the collection tank (m3) Q(10,30) = maximum flow rate for a rainstorm with a return period of 10 years and a duration of 30 minutes (m3/s)

Stormwater collection tanks must comply with the provisions of section 7.9.

The design flow rate of the pumping system shall be at least (2/3) x Q(10,30), where Q(10,30) is the maximum flow rate resulting from a rainstorm with a return period of 10 years and a duration of 30 minutes.

Stormwater pumps must comply with the provisions of section 7.9.

9.5 MANHOLES AND CLEANOUTS

Stormwater drainage systems must be provided with cleanouts and manholes in accordance with the provisions for sanitary drainage systems in sections 7.6.1, 7.6.1-1, 7.6.1-2 subsections b, c, e, 7.6.1-4, 7.6.1-5, 7.6.1-6, 7.6.1-7, 7.6.1-8, 7.6.1-9.

Manhole covers must comply with the provisions of section 7.6.2-4.

9.6 INSPECTION AND TESTING OF STORMWATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

Stormwater drainage systems must be inspected and subjected to the tests specified in section 7.10 for sanitary drainage systems.

9.7 STORMWATER RETENTION AND DETENTION SYSTEMS

Stormwater detention and retention systems are one of the means used to manage runoff discharges from a building, as well as to minimize the degradation of the environmental conditions of the receiving water body. In their design, the responsible professional must employ good professional practices in hydrology and hydraulics, as well as the most appropriate design techniques and procedures. The collection tanks referred to in section 9.4 may not be considered as retention or detention systems unless they are sized in accordance with the provisions of this section.

Detention systems or detention basins are characterized by temporarily storing runoff and discharging it in a measured manner into a receiving water body or a storm sewer; however, this discharge is carried out through an outlet structure that generally has no control. Commonly, detention basins remain empty when not operating, and their storage volume is flooded when the precipitation event occurs; upon the conclusion of this event, emptying occurs through the outlet structure. For this reason, they are sometimes called dry detention basins.

Retention systems or retention basins store water for a prolonged period.

These basins maintain water permanently and have an additional volume for the storage of volumes from flood events, which is why they are also known as wet basins. They may or may not have an outlet structure to provide some type of special regulation.

For the design of detention or retention systems, the corresponding administrative authority may define one of the following three criteria:

a. Setting a minimum storage volume and a permissible discharge flow rate according to the project area, land use, or change in impervious area b. Specification of a permissible discharge flow rate for the selected design storm without setting a minimum storage volume c. Establishment of the requirement not to exceed the peak flow rates produced by the pre-development existing condition, for a specific range of design storm frequencies The first two conditions are generally adopted by the administrative authority after the development of a regional flood control strategy, a master drainage plan for the watershed (cuenca), or a stormwater management plan for the watershed (cuenca). The third criterion is generally adopted in the absence of such a strategy or plan. The minimum return period for the design storm of detention or retention systems shall be 10 years.

The use of detention or retention systems has potential associated problems. Among these potential problems, the following can be listed:

a. The creation of coincident flood peaks that could cause flooding problems in downstream reaches of the receiving body.

b. Cumulative increases in downstream flows from several systems as a result of the superposition of the descending limbs of various outlet hydrographs.

c. An increase in the potential for accelerated erosion of the water body in the downstream reach of the detention or retention systems.

d. Extended periods of flooding in the basin area, especially during more frequent events.

e. Potential salt intrusion in shallow excavated basins.

f. Accumulation of trash and sediment, obstruction of its drains, as well as the occurrence of breeding grounds for mosquitoes or other insects, and other types of undesirable situations.

g. Risks associated with the flood area of the retention or detention system and with the outlet structure.

Many of these problems can be avoided through detailed watershed (cuenca) planning, frequent system maintenance, and the proper demarcation of the flood zone, among other measures.

In no case may the use of a detention or retention system cause an unacceptable increase in flood levels, either upstream or downstream of the system. An unacceptable increase in flooding includes any change in the flood characteristics on surrounding properties that could cause damage, or harm the value of the property or the potential land use, or cause problems derived from changes in flow velocity or flow distribution within that land.

The preliminary sizing of the detention or retention system shall be performed for the purpose of determining the order of magnitude of the required storage capacity. The initial useful volume of the system (Vs) may be obtained by comparing at least the following estimation procedures:

Where r is the dimensionless reduction ratio calculated as:

The above expressions can yield very different results and, therefore, must be used with caution. If the rational method is used for determining the inflow rate (Qi), the inflow volume (Vi) may be determined as:

Where tC is the time of concentration of the drainage area up to the system location and Qo is the effluent flow rate.

In the preliminary sizing, the professional responsible for the design may incorporate other procedures in the aforementioned comparison provided they are in accordance with good professional practices.

The final sizing of the detention or retention system shall be performed through routing the flood hydrograph through the reservoir. The use of computer models to perform this routing is recommended. Regardless of the solution technique used, it must be capable of simulating in detail the hydraulic behavior of the outlet structures, especially when the discharge conduit flows partially full or when submergence conditions occur in the discharge conduit.

The design of the system and its outlet structures must be based on a range of storm durations and appropriate temporal distributions in order to identify the critical hydraulic dimensions. It is not sufficient to simply determine the storm duration that produces the largest peak flow rate in the drainage area. Although a storm of longer duration than the critical event duration for the drainage area may produce a smaller peak flow rate, the storage volume required by that storm could be greater than that required by the critical event to attenuate the peak flow rate.

Detention or retention systems shall have a principal outlet structure, which will regulate the effluent flow rate toward the receiving body or the storm sewer. Generally, this structure shall be a simple orifice or a pipe, although other types of structures are permitted. However, in any case, the intake area of the structure must be protected against blockage by debris and designed to minimize the risk to a person trapped against said structure.

The level of protection shall depend on the consequences caused by failure due to intake obstruction and the potential frequency with which such obstruction may occur. The total obstruction of the principal outlet structure must also be considered.

Detention or retention systems shall also have an auxiliary or emergency outlet structure which shall have sufficient capacity to evacuate the maximum flow rate entering the system. The discharge through this structure toward the receiving body or storm sewer must be done safely. This structure shall have free flow (uncontrolled), and examples thereof include broad-crested and sharp-crested weirs, spillways, among others.

The design of detention and retention systems shall minimize safety risks for the public and users of the surrounding infrastructure. The use of fences or perimeter meshes around the systems must be considered as a last resort. Preferably, side slopes of 1 in 6 (1V:6H) or flatter must be used to allow easy exit from the wetted surface. Areas with slopes greater than 1 in 4 (1V:4H) shall require ladders and handrails to assist in exit. These recommendations especially apply to systems that incorporate dual-use activities such as active or passive recreation.

Depth markers must be installed inside the reservoir when the storage depth is greater than one meter (1.0 m). The marker must have its zero level with respect to the lowest point of the reservoir.

INDIVIDUAL SYSTEMS FOR THE TREATMENT OF DOMESTIC OR ORDINARY WASTEWATER 10.1 GENERAL ASPECTS

Individual treatment systems for ordinary wastewater shall be considered those sanitary technical solutions to be located on a single lot (lote) and for the benefit of a single building, discharging wastewater of the ordinary type. These individual treatment systems or alternative technologies may be constituted by several treatment units to improve contaminant removal and increase the efficiency of the purification process. Ordinary wastewater may receive treatment separately before its disposal. All ordinary wastewater must receive treatment before its final disposal in nature.

For traditional and alternative treatment systems, the treatment method that allows compliance with the quality criteria established by the Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales, decreto N° 33601 and its amendments, must be chosen, with the purpose of improving water quality before its return to the environment or its reuse. The minimum parameters that characterize each type of individual treatment system shall seek the best possible water quality before its final discharge.

Alternative systems for the treatment of excreta and wastewater can be: simple, such as latrines and composting units; separating or not feces from urine, by not using water; and more complex, such as when water is used in volumes of less than one liter or air for waste evacuation. In this regard, it is also essential to take into account the possibilities for the final disposal of the treated effluents, whether by infiltration on site or by discharge into permanent watercourses, and their reuse, as well as fecal matter and urine, after correct treatment.

The following may be considered as techniques for the individual treatment of excreta and wastewater for use in the country:

a. Dry pit latrines, latrines with a water seal, composting latrines, latrines applying vermiculture, or composting units.

b. Dry toilets or urine-diverting toilets, dry or with water, with their corresponding collection and treatment systems.

c. Septic tanks or other simple sedimentation/biodigestion units at sites with infiltration capacity.

d. Improved septic tanks consisting of the tank operating with other additional units or techniques, placed in series, or other improved simple units for sites with deficient infiltration capacity or a water table (nivel freático) at shallow depth; to complement with other individual units the process for wastewater treatment in a septic tank, in a second, third, or subsequent stage. It is possible to use, among others, upflow anaerobic filters, trickling filters, bio-gardens (biojardineras); also known as constructed wetlands (humedales artificiales).

e. Septic tanks, other simple units used as interceptor units or for primary treatment at the site of each emitter, whose effluents may receive subsequent centralized treatment prior to their discharge.

f. Systems for the collection of treated wastewater in small diameter with water or by pneumatic vacuum means.

g. Those other techniques for in-situ individual treatment that have scientific-technical backing and are in accordance with good professional practices.

h. Systems for the collection, treatment, and disposal of sludge (lodos).

The final disposal of treated water shall be done by means of infiltration, by discharge into permanent watercourses, or by reuse. Therefore, it is important to be clear that the quality of the effluent will improve according to the number of treatment steps it is given. Consequently, according to the qualities of the discharge points and treatment steps, the following possibilities can be located:

a. Removal of organic matter and direct infiltration.

b. Removal of organic matter and nutrients and direct infiltration.

c. Removal of contaminants, infiltration, and evacuation of excess water to receiving water bodies due to supersaturation or non-infiltration in the same terrain. However, for the scenario of non-infiltration in the same terrain, compliance with the provisions of the Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales, decreto N° 33601 and its amendments is required.

d. Removal of contaminants and direct discharge to water bodies, even through lines parallel to existing sewers. In this case, compliance with the provisions of the Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales, decreto N° 33601 and its amendments is required.

e. Removal of contaminants, exposure of effluents to evapotranspiration, and reuse.

In this case, compliance with the provisions of the Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales, decreto N° 33601 and its amendments is required.

The setback that must be observed, measured from the outer edge of the walls of a septic tank system, including its drainages, to the property boundaries, may not be less than that established in the current regulations. In the case of other types of individual treatment systems, the setback that must be observed, measured from the outer edge of their walls, including their drainages, when this is the disposal method, to the property boundaries, may not be less than that established in the current regulations. Furthermore, the units and elements of these systems, both during their construction and in their operation, must not compromise the structural integrity of walls or fences of neighboring infrastructure nor the geotechnical stability of the terrain.

As a general criterion, and when the specific conditions of the terrain and the project allow it, the treatment units prior to the infiltration system shall be located in the front part of the property, in order to facilitate future connection to community systems for the collection, treatment, and disposal of effluents. When this is not feasible due to terrain or building conditions, a sealed domestic stub-out (prevista domiciliar) must be provided that conveys water from the treatment units prior to the infiltration system to the domestic connection point. In all cases, the established minimum setbacks must be observed, and the installation of elements that hinder the placement of the stub-out (prevista) must be avoided. The domestic stub-out (prevista domiciliar) shall be located according to the provisions of the Reglamento para la prestación de los servicios de Acueductos y Alcantarillados (AyA). When the individual system is located within a property under the condominium regime (régimen de propiedad horizontal) or in an industrial park, the setbacks shall be measured from the outer edge of the treatment system units to the boundaries of the parent property (finca madre). The established setbacks do not apply to buildings located within the same property.

When the individual system is located within a property under the condominium regime (régimen de propiedad horizontal) or within an industrial park, the setbacks shall be measured as the distance between the outer edge of the treatment system units and the boundaries of the parent property (finca madre).

The established setbacks do not apply to buildings located within the same property.

10.2 USE OF THE SEPTIC TANK TECHNIQUE

These standards propose to set basic parameters for the correct operation of the sanitary technique of septic tanks when used for the treatment of domestic wastewater. This technique is highlighted for being the most commonly used in the country; however, it is emphasized that there are other sanitary techniques for the individual treatment of excreta and wastewater. Emphasis is placed on characteristics to be met for the drainages, the sizing and maintenance of the tank, and the importance of providing additional treatment to the septic sludge (lodos sépticos) or fecal material that is periodically extracted from the septic tank.

Therefore, proper operation depends on the sedimentation/biodigestion tank appropriately retaining the heavier solids and the greases that travel with the liquids, as well as on the terrains where these treatment systems are placed having the capacity to allow all the water processed with this sanitary technique to infiltrate into them.

Periodically, a partial removal of the accumulated greases and sludge (lodos) must be performed. The removed sludge (lodos) or fecal matter requires additional treatment for its complete stabilization and to not negatively affect the environment.

Every process for the treatment of wastewater aims to remove contaminating elements and transform some of them into simpler components. Individual treatment systems remove things from the water, but do not change the volume of the effluent. Gases are produced and waste products known as mineralized sludge (lodos mineralizados) are obtained. The principle that matter is not destroyed but transformed is respected and recognized. Just as it is established that whatever the volume of water entering the sedimentation/biodigestion tank, it will be that same volume of water that must subsequently be accounted for correct discharge.

All used wastewater generated must receive treatment before its reincorporation into nature. It is essential to perform an appropriate assessment of the volume and types of wastewater that will be directed to the treatment system, according to the discharge produced per day. In order to carry out this assessment, the following must at minimum be determined:

a. The volume and type of all used water of domestic origin, according to the user population in a building: toilets, sinks, showers, kitchen sinks, laundry tubs or laundries.

b. The determination of that volume of ordinary wastewater can be done following the criteria for water supply allowance (dotación) and determination of average return flow rates (caudales de retorno). A value for that return factor of 80% of the assumed average water supply allowance (dotación) is recommended. However, the professional responsible for the design may use higher values, provided it is in accordance with good professional practices.

c. Data based on water supply allowances (dotaciones) may be reassessed when information is available that typifies the consumption of a specific community; when low-water-consumption fixtures are installed in the work; and when families have defined water-saving principles.

Likewise, consideration must be given, for the determination of qualities and quantities, to domestic activities that discharge extraordinary volumes of wastewater in very short times. The professional in charge of the design must bear in mind that this type of discharge alters the contents of the tanks, "washes out" the biological system, and disturbs the settled or suspended matter, consequently reducing the system's efficiency for contaminant removal. Some of those extraordinary activities are laundering concentrated in only one or two days of the week, as well as the discharge of water from a bathtub. For these cases, it is advisable to separately treat water containing excreta and separately treat all other discharged wastewater.

Basic elements of this individual treatment technique:

a. Soil absorption capacity.

b. Sufficient separation between the bottom of the discharge points in the subsoil and subsurface groundwater (agua freática) levels.

c. The tank is a sedimentation basin and simultaneously an anaerobic biodigester.

d. The storage volume of the tank must be consistent with the number of users the system has and the daily volumes of water used by them.

e. Need for periodic removal of greases and sludge (lodos).

f. Existence of systems for the removal, transport, treatment, and correct disposal or utilization of septic sludge (lodos sépticos) in accordance with current regulations.

Infiltration tests (pruebas de infiltración) are a basic requirement to determine the acceptability or rejection of the chosen site as the area where the drainage subsystem will be placed. This subsystem complements the process for the treatment of ordinary wastewater, carried out individually. The drainage or disposal site by infiltration of treated wastewater for an individual solution is determined with greater certainty by having the results of the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración) performed directly in the space and at the depth in the terrain where the drainage will be located.

In carrying out the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración), the following must be considered:

a. Direct measurements or readings at the site and in the strata where the intended infiltration system will be placed.

b. Full saturation conditions to determine the actual infiltration rates of the treated water in that terrain. These systems must function correctly during rainy seasons and times of high terrain saturation.

c. The number of test holes for the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración) shall be defined by the responsible professional, who will determine the importance of the project and the size of the terrain, and assume the responsibility of performing the number necessary to guarantee representative and safe results; in any case, the number of holes may not be less than that resulting from applying an influence radius of thirty meters (30 m) per test hole, a distance that has traditionally been proposed to separate the location of a drainage zone and a well for water supply.

d. The test holes may be cylindrical and drilled with manual or mechanical equipment from the ground surface.

e. The test holes must be correctly located on a diagram with reference to landmarks or points on the terrain.

It is essential that the field work for the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración) be carried out as established in the Reglamento para la disposición al subsuelo de aguas residuales ordinarias tratadas, decreto N° 42075-S-MINAE, and its amendments.

For the calculation of the infiltration rate (tasa de infiltración), the data from the last reading period obtained with the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración) is used. It is clarified that an average of the total data obtained per test hole must not be used. The infiltration rate (tasa de infiltración) is obtained by dividing the time interval used between readings and the last height difference that was determined. Defining a first characterization based on the percolation capacity of the terrain for a project of several dwellings or buildings, where several infiltration tests (pruebas de infiltración) have been performed, shall be done by averaging the infiltration rates (tasas de infiltración) obtained for each of the test holes.

A basic complement to this test is the performance of explorations at greater depth, in the same hole where the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración) is performed, for the purpose of verifying the existence or non-existence of groundwater. Groundwater levels in an infiltration field must be located at least 1.5 m below the bottom that the drainage trenches will have.

The drainages may be infiltration beds formed by trenches and distributed over ample surfaces of the terrain.

The drainages are calculated by establishing a hydraulic relationship between the infiltration rate characterizing the terrain under study, determined with the infiltration test (prueba de infiltración), and the flow rate or discharge of water to be produced by the users of the technique used for wastewater treatment.

The drainage calculation is the definition of the length and cross-section of the trenches. Annex B to this regulation presents a procedure for calculating the cross-section dimensions and length of the trenches.

In an infiltration system composed of trenches or surface drainages, biodegradation phenomena also occur due to the adherence of microorganisms on the walls of the filter material, and evapotranspiration due to the effect of solar radiation and plants that may grow in the vicinity. Therefore, the following points must be considered:

a. Drainage trenches must be filled, from the effluent distribution duct or pipe from the tank downwards, with stones sized between 7 and 10 cm as they provide greater contact surface and fewer voids than the raw or large-sized stone traditionally used.

b. Plastics or other impermeable materials must not be placed, because the release of gases and evapotranspiration that will be obtained from the biological activity to be developed and from the solar rays that strike that zone must be allowed.

c. In this way, the cross-section of a drainage trench is characterized by the following elements and strata:

c.1. A pipe, preferably smooth on its internal surface, with perforations for the distribution of liquids with dissolved organic matter and percolation downward.

c.2. Granular material between 7 and 10 cm, under that distribution pipe.

c.3. Granular material in sizes of 9 mm and larger, on both sides of the distribution pipe and over it. This other stone is placed in gradual granulometric variation; from larger to smaller and from bottom to top, to prevent saturation or clogging as a consequence of the surface backfill that is done with local soil.

d. It is not permitted to place coverings over the ground surfaces such as sidewalks, slabs, pavements, or paving stones, where the trenches are placed.

e. On sloping land, the drainage trenches are constructed parallel to the contour lines, that is, following the contour. To achieve the required total length, it may be necessary to use several levels of the terrain, so that the water will pass by overflow from the trench at the upper level to the trench at the lower level.

f. The horizontal separation between trenches must be at least five meters (5.0 m).

The dimensions, cross-section, and length of the drainage trenches are defined by the results that determine the infiltration capacity of the land where they are to be placed and the amount of water intended to be infiltrated. Each result of these infiltration tests is specific to each site; therefore, extrapolations are highly uncertain. It is important to relate the amount of water to be placed in that land to the infiltration rate obtained. The infiltration area then obtained refers to the relationship with the walls and the bottom of the trenches. However, this wetted perimeter must be corrected with a reduction factor, given the hydraulic variation caused by the gravity supply and the relatively low velocities of the effluent water from the distribution pipe in relation to the trench walls.

The infiltration surface is the space of land where the infiltration action is permitted. This is the area of influence that, at a minimum, must be allocated to the sides of the trenches so that the water percolates into the land used, taking into account the effects of rain.

The final disposal of treated ordinary wastewater into the subsoil by means of absorption wells is prohibited, in accordance with the provisions of the Reglamento para la disposición al subsuelo de aguas residuales ordinarias tratadas, Decreto Ejecutivo N.º 42075-S-MINAE and its amendments.

The proper functioning of the septic tank; which implies a removal equal to or greater than 25% of the organic load initially contained in the wastewater, with this sanitation technique must respect basic principles of sedimentation and biodigestion, therefore requiring that the following be maintained:

a. A recommended ratio of 1:3 between the width and the length, of the unit that is built or prefabricated, for correct sedimentation, seeking the retention of the majority of the solids carried and in suspension.

b. A useful liquid depth between 1.0 m and 2.5 m, for correct sedimentation actions and the location of strata for biodegradation.

c. A hydraulic retention time for sedimentation of no less than 24 hours.

d. A retention time for biodigestion no less than that required by the water temperature and applied load. It is important that grease trap units and/or cooling boxes be placed prior to the septic tank so as not to affect the planned operating temperature of said unit.

e. A sludge storage time in accordance with the load and logical cost assessment with which the convenient time between cleanings is defined. This storage space is recommended for at least two years and no more than five years.

f. The maximum design flow for the application of septic-based solutions with a land infiltration system shall not be greater than 5 m3/day, in accordance with Decreto Ejecutivo Nº 42075-S-MINAE or whatever is established by its amendments.

Other proportions, shapes, or characteristics of the tanks may function as treatment units for this sanitary technique, but achieving other efficiencies for the removal of organic load, mainly.

In these tanks, space must be available to define several layers, which from bottom to top are:

a. Zone for the storage of matter, a site for the accumulation of solids or digested sludge.

b. Biodigestion zone, where the main digestion of solid and dissolved material takes place.

c. Sedimentation zone, where a large quantity of active bacteria are also located and liquids with dissolved organic matter travel.

d. Zone for upper greases or scums and the free space required for the gases from the anaerobic process to locate.

The sizing of each of the septic tanks, in addition to considering the previous principles, must be based on design formulas that take into account the number of users, the quantity and type of water used per day, the wastewater temperature, and the appropriate period for the removal of liquid and solid matter. Annex C to this regulation presents a calculation procedure that even takes into account the prevailing water temperature under tropical conditions.

Every septic tank must have flow-regulating elements or baffles at the inlet and the outlet; these elements reduce disturbances to the treatment process and are useful for preventing the exit of greases and sludge towards the next stage.

For the simplest conditions of a single-family dwelling, the inlet and outlet elements in a septic tank are achieved by placing T-junctions, extended with pipe nipples, to an appropriate length of approximately 40% of the liquid depth. In this way, these baffles allow flow in the sedimentation zone of the tank. These same T-junctions must be extended upwards, leaving two centimeters (0.02 m) free before the upper slab or cover. That upper free space will allow the exit of gases through the same inlet elements, which are the ducts coming from the building, and outlet elements towards the drains.

The tank, due to the anaerobic process that takes place, must be hermetic. The walls and the floor of the tank must be impermeable.

The materials used in its construction or manufacture for walls, floor, and cover must resist the attack of acids and sulfates carried by the water or formed during the treatment process.

In the case of septic tanks built of concrete or masonry, these must be coated or painted with appropriate products to prevent chemical attack on the tank material.

The minimum internal width of a concrete or masonry tank built with blocks shall be 70 cm. At this width, the person who will waterproof and place the insulating protective coatings, such as bituminous paints or epoxy-based products, can barely fit.

Every septic tank requires:

a. The placement of two cleanouts in the upper slab or cover, exactly over the position occupied by the T-junctions for liquid inlet and outlet. These cleanouts will serve to check the level of stored sludge through them. In concrete tanks, these cleanouts may be made of 100 mm PVC pieces, with threaded plugs.

b. In each compartment, at least one main cleanout must be placed to facilitate matter extraction and cleaning tasks. This cleanout must be made with dimensions no less than 40 cm x 60 cm and must be built with flanges on the slab or cover to prevent the ingress of surface water, and the flanges with a flexible sanitary seal such as silicone or bituminous paste against the cleanout cover itself to prevent the escape of gases. It is not correct to place covers with chamfered edges flush with the slab or tank cover, because these tanks must be hermetic and impermeable, and with this style of construction, cracks or slots form through which gases escape.

c. Maintain a level difference of 7 cm between the bottom of the inlet pipe and the bottom of the outlet pipe, with the outlet pipe being the lowest.

d. Provide correct and appropriate means to evacuate the gases that are produced.

e. Siphons must not be placed before the septic tank due to possible pipe obstructions.

The exit of gases from a tank can be induced by directing them through the upper and open part of the T-junctions towards the vent lines corresponding to the pipes that evacuate the waters from the building.

It is also possible to direct the gases towards the drainage, through the outlet T-junction.

Another possibility for evacuating the gases formed in the tank is by means of direct and exclusive vents placed in the tank itself. These direct vent lines must exit from the upper lateral part of the tank's interior and be directed towards a nearby wall, rising above the roof height. Vent pipes should not be left in an isolated manner and on the tank slab or cover. At the end of the gas evacuation pipe, a 180° elbow must be placed to prevent the ingress of rainwater.

All systems for the treatment of excreta and wastewater, when transforming matter, will produce sludge as a basic material, whether floating, sedimented, or mineralized. Septic tanks must have a volume properly sized to temporarily store this sludge.

The sludge extracted from septic tanks for final disposal must follow the measures established in the Decreto Ejecutivo DE Nº39316-S, Reglamento para el Manejo y Disposición Final de Lodos y Biosólidos and its amendments.

In a septic tank, sludge is located in two main sections: some are heavy and settle at the bottom of the tanks; others, of greasy origin, are light and float as scum on the previously mentioned zones or layers. When extracting sludge from a tank, old sludge from the first days of operation, which has already stabilized, and fresh sludge from recent deposition are removed. It is because of this non-uniform degradation condition of the extracted material that it is necessary to treat this material in order to achieve its stabilization before final disposal.

Disposing of the sludge and liquids extracted from a septic tank directly into a body of water or onto land, without prior treatment, is prohibited.

The professional responsible for the design and the professional responsible for the construction of the project will have the responsibility of providing the owner with the operation and maintenance manual for the entire wastewater treatment and disposal system, as well as the final plans, respectively.

FINAL PROVISIONS

This standard repeals the Código de Instalaciones Hidráulicas y Sanitarias en Edificaciones, 2017 edition, published in Alcance N° 38 of the Diario oficial La Gaceta N° 37 of February twenty-first, two thousand seventeen.

This standard will come into force three months after its publication in the Diario Oficial La Gaceta, with the exception of the provisions in articles 5.1-3 and 5.1-6, which shall be mandatory from the publication of this standard in said official medium.

The foregoing, given that what is established in the cited articles is complemented by the provisions of Decreto Ejecutivo N.° 44943-MTSS-S, Reglamento de condiciones para espacios de lactancia materna en los centros de trabajo, in force since July second, 2025.

Plans that were submitted to the Plataforma de Administrador de Proyectos de Construcción (APC) of the CFIA, prior to the entry into force of this Code, will continue their processing, being substantiated under the Código de Instalaciones Hidráulicas y Sanitarias en Edificaciones, 2017 edition, published in Alcance N° 38 of the Diario oficial La Gaceta N° 37 of February twenty-first, two thousand seventeen and its amendments. Plans submitted on the date of entry into force of this Regulation must comply with the new provisions.

ANNEXES

GREASE INTERCEPTORS.

Article A-1 The provisions of this annex are a series of recommendations for the design, construction, and installation of grease interceptors for commercial kitchens.

Article A-2 All material drained from the fixtures must enter the interceptor only through the inlet pipe.

Article A-3 Design and location The following requirements must be met:

. The interceptors must be constructed in accordance with the standards approved by the Ministry of Health and the aqueduct administering entity.

. They must be installed in a manner that allows easy access for cleaning, inspection, and removal of grease. They must possess an adequate number of cleanouts to allow access for cleaning the interceptor. The cleanout cover must prevent the ingress and egress of liquids and gases, having a minimum opening of sixty centimeters (0.60 m).

. In areas where vehicular traffic may exist, the interceptor must be designed to withstand this load.

. They may not be installed in building areas where food is handled.

. The interceptors must be installed as close as possible to the fixtures they serve.

Article A-4 Construction requirements Commercial grease interceptors must meet the following requirements:

. In the case of businesses that must submit reports on the status of their drains, a cleanout box or other element must be left at the interceptor outlet to allow the corresponding authority to take samples of the interceptor drainage.

. The plans must contain all dimensions, capacities, reinforcements, and, in the case where required, the structural design calculations.

. The grease interceptor must have two compartments. The inlet compartment must have a capacity equal to two-thirds (2/3) of the total volume, having a liquid volume of at least one thousand two hundred (1200) liters. The outlet compartment must have a minimum capacity of one-third (1/3) of the total volume.

. The liquid depth must not be less than thirty-six centimeters (0.36 m) and not greater than one hundred eighty centimeters (1.80 m).

. Grease interceptors must have at least one thousand square centimeters (0.1 m2) of surface area for every one hundred eighty-three liters (183 L) of capacity.

. Access cleanouts must be provided for each compartment of the interceptor. For interceptors with a length greater than six meters (6 m), accesses must be located every three meters (3 m). The access cleanouts will have a minimum dimension of fifty centimeters (0.50 m), either in diameter or per side.

. On both the inlet and outlet pipes, a T-junction or similar flow device must be installed. Each T-junction must extend at least ten centimeters (0.10 m) above the liquid level.

. The division between compartments must be made with suitable material. The division must extend above the liquid level by at least fifteen centimeters (0.15 m). Communication between compartments must be carried out by means of an elbow (90°) of the same size as the inlet T-junction.

. The liquid level must be at a minimum distance of twenty-two centimeters (0.22 m) from the top of the interceptor. The air chamber must have a minimum capacity of 12.5% of the interceptor's liquid volume.

. The interceptor walls must have a minimum thickness of seventy-five millimeters (0.075 m).

Article A-5 Grease interceptors must be subjected to inspection and testing to verify their watertightness. The test consists of filling the interceptor with water up to the flow line of the outlet pipe and verifying the existence of leaks. The inlet and outlet pipes to the interceptor must be tested in the same way as the drainage pipes.

Article A-6 The parameters for sizing a grease interceptor are the hydraulic load and the grease storage capacity, for one or more fixtures.

Article A-7 The size of the interceptor may be calculated using any of the two methods indicated below:

Method 1. The interceptor size will be estimated based on the maximum number of meals to be served per hour, using the data from Table A.1.

Table A.1 FIRST METHOD FOR SIZING THE GREASE INTERCEPTOR

Method 2. The interceptor size will be estimated based on the discharge units and retention time.

Table A.2 SECOND METHOD FOR SIZING THE GREASE INTERCEPTOR

AND DISPOSAL OF DOMESTIC OR ORDINARY WASTEWATER.

Drainage beds with infiltration trenches.

Article B-1 The recommended procedure for calculating the appropriate length of a drainage system in beds with infiltration trenches is detailed below.

a. With the infiltration rate T obtained (min/cm) from the land, the maximum application rate of water (m/s or liters/(m2 day)) is deduced from current references. These rates (v) have been suggested, for the case of Costa Rica, by the Ministry of Health or by the AyA.

Data:

. T (infiltration rate) = time between readings / last difference in water levels in the hole; units: (min/cm).

. VP (Infiltration velocity) = 127.75/?T; units: (liters/m2/day). The professional responsible for the design may use other formulations accepted by the good practices of the profession and that adequately adjust to the site conditions.

. The alternative means is to obtain the data for that infiltration velocity from the data indicated in Table B.1:

Table B.1 INFILTRATION VELOCITY

Notes:

For results greater than 24 min/cm, the use of infiltration systems is not recommended.

b. It is necessary, at this level of the calculation process, to know the amount of water that the dwelling or the system under analysis will be contributing, which would be the daily volume or contribution of water (liters/day).

Flow or discharge (Q) of water that the soil will receive per day. For example, one person could represent a discharge (return flow) of 162 liters/day (without the use of low water consumption fixtures) ==> a house with 6 people will produce (162 x 6) = 972 L/day; so, making the conversions, that value is: Q= 972 L/day= 0.972 m3/day=0.00001125 m3/s = 1.125 x 10-? m3/s.

c. By comparing the previous data (infiltration velocity and return flow to be disposed), the required absorption area or infiltration area (Ai) in square meters is deduced, using the following equation:

d. Additionally, in this calculation process to define the required infiltration field, other factors are applied. These are coefficients that take into consideration the effect of rain and the cleanliness or type of covering (only grass, paving stones, concrete footprints, among others) that the surface where the infiltration area will be placed will have. Based on the prevailing conditions and the application of these coefficients, the value previously calculated as the absorption area is increased, to consequently obtain, as a new datum, the value of the land surface required for the infiltration field being sought.

. Precipitation (Fp) (factor greater than or equal to 2.5). That value of 2.5 is assumed for San José according to its average annual precipitation and is adjusted upwards, according to the proportion that the average annual precipitation of the place under study has.

. Upper covering (rc). It is considered zero (0) if nothing is covering the ground surface and almost one (1) if it is covered.

. Then:

? Surface to green area required ? Infiltration field surface:

e. The geometry of that calculated infiltration field is obtained by setting characteristics such as the trench width and the depth of graded filtering material under the drainage pipes. According to that width and that depth of material under the drains, also from hydraulic assessments, a correction factor is obtained with which a new parameter is set, known as the effective perimeter (Pe= corrected wetted perimeter).

. A value is set for the width (W) of the trench. A distance (D) of gravel under the pipe is set.

. The effective perimeter is calculated:

. With W and D in centimeters, in that equation (that Pe value can also be taken from existing tables).

f. The length of the trenches to be used will be obtained from the relationship that can be made between the calculated absorption area (Ai) and that effective perimeter data. It then remains to establish another relationship between the value of the surface to be occupied by the entire infiltration field and the calculated length of the trenches. In this way, the separation between trenches or the width required for the total surface of the intended infiltration field will be established.

g.

. Total length of the trenches:

. Separation between trenches, width of the infiltration surface:

. LS is the center-to-center separation distance between trenches, which must be greater than or equal to 2 meters.

. The surface required to place the infiltration field is: LZ x LS (m2 - extent of the necessary patio or green zone).

h. Water table. It is necessary not to forget the importance of determining and verifying the depth at which groundwater is located and to keep in mind that the bottom of the drain must be at least 2 meters above the water table.

AND DISPOSAL OF DOMESTIC OR ORDINARY WASTEWATER.

Dimensions of a sedimentation/biodigestion tank (septic tank)

The recommended procedure for defining the dimensions of a sedimentation/biodigestion tank, using the rational method, is detailed below.

The procedure is based on the formulas proposed by the research of Drs. D.D. Mara and G.S. Sinnatamby, whose rational method is for calculating the appropriate functioning of a septic tank in tropical climate locations. In this way, the appropriate analytical means are established to achieve the magnitude of each of the volumes that are definable in the treatment process carried out inside a septic tank.

Thus, the following is presented:

A. Volume for sedimentation, in cubic meters: VS = 10-3×P×q×th; where:

. P is the population or total number of people to be served.

. q is the flow of water to be treated (in liters/person/day).

. th is the hydraulic retention time to be considered for this process (in number of days).

B. Volume for biodigestion, in cubic meters: Vd = 0.5×10-3×P×td; where:

. P is the population or total number of people to be served.

. td is the retention time required for the biodigestion of organic matter, to be calculated with the following expression: (td =28(1.035)35-T), as a function of the estimated temperature in degrees Celsius of the water to be treated and given the environmental conditions of the zone.

C. Volume for the storage of digested sludge, in cubic meters:

Where:

. r is a factor that characterizes the waters and, consequently, the sludge that will be produced (that is: r = 40 L/person/year, when all liquid waste from a dwelling is sent; r = 30 L/person/year, when only water from toilets is sent).

FIGURES

El presente Código tiene como objetivo establecer los requisitos mínimos para proteger la salud pública, la seguridad, el bienestar general en las edificaciones destinadas para uso, ocupación o habitación humana y que se construyan en el territorio de la República de Costa Rica.

El presente Código deberá cumplirse durante las etapas de diseño, construcción, instalación, reparación, readecuación, reemplazo, relocalización, adición o remodelación de las edificaciones.

Este Código comprende las instalaciones sanitarias e hidráulicas de agua potable (fría y caliente), desagüe de aguas residuales, ventilación de las instalaciones sanitarias, drenaje de aguas pluviales, todas ellas relacionadas con las edificaciones.

Por su naturaleza, las instalaciones sanitarias e hidráulicas deben ser diseñadas, construidas, instaladas, reparadas, reemplazadas o remodeladas mediante metodologías y técnicas probadas, así como con materiales de probada capacidad. Sin embargo, no se limita el uso de materiales y métodos de diseño alternos que no estén específicamente señalados por este Código, siempre y cuando el profesional responsable del diseño demuestre que el uso de la alternativa permite el cumplimiento de los objetivos descritos en el presente Código.

Independientemente del grado de refinamiento en el análisis y diseño, o de la calidad de los materiales, o de la construcción, es necesario que todas las instalaciones para las que este Código establece normas estén bien concebidas y proyectadas, con el fin de alcanzar los objetivos establecidos.

Las disposiciones contenidas en este Código representan requisitos mínimos en procura de un adecuado desempeño de las instalaciones. No obstante, la labor del profesional responsable del diseño no se debe limitar al cumplimiento irreflexivo de estas disposiciones, sino que debe procurar la satisfacción de los objetivos establecidos en el Código y adoptar, de ser preciso, criterios alternativos más rigurosos que los establecidos por este Código.

Este Código hace referencia a normativas nacionales y extranjeras que se encuentran vigentes al momento de emisión de la presente norma. Por lo anterior, es obligación del profesional verificar y aplicar la versión que se encuentre vigente de dichas normas, para su correcta aplicación.

DEFINICIONES

- A - Abasto (tubo de): tubo, generalmente flexible, que sirve para conectar un inodoro, lavatorio, fregadero u otro accesorio sanitario a la alimentación principal de agua potable.

Acometida: conexión de una edificación determinada a un sistema o servicio establecido.

Agua para uso industrial: agua no necesariamente potable, ya sea por sus características físicas, químicas o biológicas; su calidad esperada dependerá de las necesidades que se deseen cubrir en cada caso.

Agua para reutilización: agua aprovechable en cualquier sistema de distribución, con excepción el sistema de distribución de agua potable.

Agua de recirculación: agua con calidad igual o superior a la del sistema donde se suministra.

Agua potable: agua tratada que cumple con las disposiciones de valores recomendados o máximos admisibles estéticos, organolépticos, físicos, químicos, biológicos y microbiológicos, establecidos en el Reglamento para la Calidad del Agua Potable, Decreto Ejecutivo N° 38924-S y sus reformas, y que al ser consumida por la población no causa daño a la salud.

Aguas residuales: aquellas que contienen desperdicios, materiales en suspensión o solución de origen humano, animal, vegetal o químico, provenientes de las descargas de residencias, edificios comerciales o instalaciones industriales de cualquier índole; se clasifica en dos tipos: ordinaria y especial.

Agua residual especial: aquella de tipo diferente a la ordinaria; por ejemplo, aguas de procesos industriales u hospitalarios.

Agua residual ordinaria: agua residual generada por las actividades domésticas del ser humano (uso de inodoros, duchas, lavatorios, fregaderos); a menos de que se indique lo contrario, cuando en el presente Código se hable de aguas residuales, se trata de este tipo.

Alcantarillado pluvial: red pública o privada de tuberías que se utilizan para recolectar y transportar las aguas de lluvia hasta su punto de descarga a un medio receptor.

Alcantarillado sanitario: red pública o privada de tuberías que se utilizan para recolectar y transportar las aguas residuales hasta su punto de descarga a un sistema o planta de tratamiento.

Aparato sanitario: artefacto generalmente conectado a un sistema de suministro de agua (potable o no), que la recibe sin peligro de contaminación y que la descarga a un conducto de desagüe de aguas residuales, después de ser utilizada.

Aparatos de uso privado: aquellos destinados a ser utilizados por un número restringido de personas, por ejemplo, en residencias familiares, edificaciones comerciales, edificaciones hospitalarias o industriales.

Aparatos de uso público: los que están ubicados de modo que puedan ser utilizados sin restricciones por cualquier persona; estos se pueden encontrar en edificios de instituciones públicas, edificaciones comerciales, templos, estadios, centros recreativos, entre otros.

Autoridad administrativa: ente encargado de administrar y operar los sistemas públicos de acueductos y alcantarillados (AyA, municipalidades u otros).

Autoridad sanitaria: ente público encargado de fijar las normas y leyes sanitarias en cuanto a calidad del agua, así como las características y requerimientos de los efluentes (Ministerio de Salud).

AyA: Instituto Costarricense de Acueductos y Alcantarillados.

- B - Bajante: tubería en un sistema de desagües de aguas residuales o pluviales.

Batería de piezas sanitarias: cualquier grupo de piezas sanitarias similares y adyacentes, que tienen una misma tubería de abastecimiento de agua y descargan en el mismo ramal de desagüe.

Boca de inspección y limpieza: pieza o accesorio que forma parte de las tuberías de desagüe, destinada a permitir la inspección y limpieza de dichas tuberías.

Bidé: pieza sanitaria destinada al aseo de las partes íntimas del cuerpo.

- C - Caja de registro: estructura plástica, metálica o de concreto destinada a permitir la inspección, limpieza de las tuberías de desagüe, capturar lodos y objetos sólidos; también permite efectuar cambios de dirección, pendiente, diámetro y material de tubería.

Carga de ocupantes: Cantidad total de personas que puede ocupar un edificio o porción de éste en cualquier momento.

Caudal: volumen de líquido o fluido que pasa por una sección de tubería o canal por unidad de tiempo; en este Código se expresa usualmente en litros por segundo.

Caudalímetro: ver hidrómetro.

CFIA: Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica.

Cisterna: ver tanque de captación.

Cloaca: ver colector de aguas residuales o pluviales.

Colector de aguas pluviales: tubería principal destinada a recolectar y conducir las aguas de lluvia de una edificación hasta la conexión con el alcantarillado pluvial.

Colector de aguas residuales: tubería principal, destinada a recolectar y conducir las aguas residuales provenientes de la red sanitaria hasta la conexión con un sistema tratamiento.

Condominio: inmueble construido en forma horizontal, vertical o mixta, susceptible de aprovechamiento independiente por parte de distintos propietarios, con elementos comunes de carácter indivisible; estos últimos, denominados "bienes comunes", son aquellos elementos, pertenencias o servicios de dominio inalienable e indivisible de todos los propietarios, necesarios para el uso, seguridad, salubridad, conservación, acceso, recreo u ornato del inmueble.

Conexión cruzada: conexión física entre dos sistemas de tuberías, donde el agua puede fluir de un sistema a otro, dependiendo de la dirección del flujo y de la presión diferencial entre los dos sistemas.

Conexión domiciliaria de agua: tramo de tubería comprendida entre la tubería pública de agua potable y el medidor ubicado en el exterior de una edificación.

Conexión domiciliaria de desagüe pluvial: tramo de tubería comprendido entre la última caja de registro y el alcantarillado pluvial.

Conexión domiciliaria de desagüe sanitario: tramo de tubería comprendido entre la última caja de registro y el alcantarillado sanitario.

Consumo: caudal medido en la conexión domiciliaria de agua potable.

Contenedor tipo ASME: contenedor construido de acuerdo con el código y especificaciones de la Sociedad Americana de Ingenieros Mecánicos (ASME, por sus siglas en inglés).

Contenedor tipo cilindro: contenedor diseñado, construido, probado y rotulado de acuerdo con las especificaciones del Departamento de Transporte de Estados Unidos de América.

Columna de ventilación: tubería destinada a la entrada o salida de aire del sistema de desagüe de una edificación de uno o varios pisos.

Cuarto de baño: aposento en el que se ubican las piezas sanitarias destinadas a la higiene personal.

- D - Demanda: consumo de agua potable para un intervalo de tiempo dado, para un fin dado, en una edificación.

Diámetro efectivo: diámetro interior de una tubería.

Diámetro nominal: dimensión comercial o normalizada de las tuberías, que no necesariamente corresponde al diámetro efectivo.

Dotación: medida del consumo o de la demanda expresada usualmente en litros por persona por día o su equivalente de una edificación, de acuerdo con el uso y la ocupación a que está destinada.

Desagüe indirecto: descarga de una pieza sanitaria o de cualquier otro artefacto que se realiza a través de un espacio de aire al sistema de desagüe de una edificación, mediante la utilización de un desagüe de piso u otro dispositivo adecuado.

Ducto mecánico: espacio hueco dejado en las edificaciones, de sección regular (p. e. rectangular o circular) y generalmente limitado por paredes; es utilizado para alojar tuberías de los sistemas electromecánicos o ductos de los sistemas de ventilación y aire acondicionado, con el fin de permitir su inspección, reparación o mantenimiento.

- E - Edificación: cualquier construcción o edificio destinado a uso, ocupación o habitación por personas.

Escorrentía: agua de lluvia que discurre por la superficie de un terreno.

- F - Filtración: separación física de las sustancias sólidas en suspensión en un líquido mediante el uso de medios porosos.

Filtro: dispositivo o aparato con el que se efectúa el proceso de filtración.

Flotador, válvula de: dispositivo que se mantiene en la superficie del agua de un tanque de captación y que se utiliza generalmente para registrar las variaciones de nivel o para gobernar un interruptor o una válvula.

Fluxómetro: válvula semiautomática que descarga un volumen de agua determinado para evacuar una cantidad de líquido de un accesorio sanitario (inodoro o mingitorio); usualmente se activa mediante una palanca, botón o sensor electrónico.

Fuga: pérdida de líquido a causa de la falta de estanqueidad en tanques, accesorios de la tubería, artefactos sanitarios u otro.

- G - Gasto: ver caudal.

Golpe de ariete: variación de la presión que sufre una tubería y sus accesorios por efecto de cambios repentinos de la velocidad del agua.

Gradiente de energía: razón de cambio de la línea de energía, la cual describe la suma de la carga de elevación, la carga de presión y la carga de velocidad.

Gradiente hidráulico: es la razón de cambio en la línea de gradiente hidráulico, la cual representa la suma de la carga de presión y la carga de elevación; usualmente se expresa en unidades de longitud sobre un nivel de referencia.

- H - Hidrómetro: dispositivo o instrumento que sirve para medir el caudal.

Hidroneumático: ver tanque hidroneumático.

- I - Infraestructura verde: red de elementos o prácticas descentralizadas de gestión de aguas pluviales, tales como techos verdes, árboles, jardines de lluvia, pavimento permeable, entre otras, que pueden capturar e infiltrar la lluvia donde cae, reduciendo así la escorrentía y mejorando la salud de las vías fluviales circundantes.

Instalación sanitaria: conjunto de tuberías, equipos o dispositivos destinados al abastecimiento y distribución del agua, y a la evacuación de desagües y su ventilación dentro de la edificación.

Interruptor de flotador: flotador equipado para el mando de una bomba u otros equipos, cuyo funcionamiento está ligado a las variaciones de nivel de un líquido en un depósito.

Interruptor de vacío: dispositivo de acción mecánica destinado a evitar el reflujo de agua.

Interceptor: dispositivo diseñado e instalado para separar y retener materiales indeseables o peligrosos que puedan contener las aguas residuales de una edificación, permitiendo, a su vez, el desagüe por gravedad de dichas aguas a los conductos de desagüe.

Interceptor de grasa: dispositivo utilizado para efectuar la separación de la grasa y de los aceites en los vertidos de los establecimientos donde se preparan alimentos o en donde se desarrollan procesos industriales en donde se generan grasas; tales dispositivos podrán ser del tipo para ubicar en exteriores, o estar ubicados cerca del accesorio sanitario.

- J - Junta de dilatación: dispositivo destinado a absorber las variaciones de longitud de las tuberías producidas por cambios de temperatura.

Juntas abiertas: son las juntas que no son herméticas y que permiten una separación entre las tuberías que las forman.

Junta flexible: permite ligeros desplazamientos o rotaciones de una tubería para absorber vibraciones o solicitaciones de cargas exteriores, lo mismo que los efectos de situaciones de régimen

Junta de dilatación sísmica: accesorio utilizado en los sistemas de tuberías para atravesar juntas sísmicas entre estructuras o ingresar de la parte exterior hacia lo interno del edificio; es una junta extremadamente flexible, con movimiento en todas las direcciones para evitar la rotura en caso de sismo.

- L - Llave de purga: válvula que permite descargar agua o sedimentos de una tubería o recipiente.

- M - Medidor de agua: ver hidrómetro.

Memoria de cálculo: relato escrito complementario de los planos del proyecto y explicativo de los determinantes de su funcionamiento y de las bases técnicas del diseño.

mca: sigla de la unidad de presión metro de columna de agua o cabeza de agua; un (1) mca equivale a 9806,65 MPa a 4 °C.

- N - Nivel de rebalse: es el correspondiente al nivel de descarga del exceso de agua que ingresa a un tanque de captación o pieza sanitaria.

- P - PE: sigla común para el polietileno, tanto en inglés como español.

PEAD: sigla común para el polietileno de alta densidad (siglas en inglés HDPE).

Pérdida de carga: es la variación en altura de la línea de gradiente hidráulico, es decir, es igual al cambio en la suma de las cargas de presión y elevación; se origina en la disipación de energía ocasionada por la fricción del fluido al escurrir a través de una tubería, y equivale a los términos "pérdida de cabeza" o "pérdida de presión".

Presión de servicio: es la presión estática a la entrada de un sistema de tuberías en su régimen de operación normal.

Presión dinámica: corresponde al término de energía cinética por unidad de volumen.

Presión estática: es el valor de la presión en un sistema de tuberías en condiciones de flujo nulo; se puede considerar como invariante en el tiempo.

Prevista: tuberías y accesorios que normalmente se colocan sobre las tuberías principales de las redes de abastecimiento de agua o alcantarillado, con el propósito de ser utilizadas para las instalaciones sanitarias de los futuros usuarios.

Probabilidad de uso simultáneo: probabilidad de que un cierto número de piezas sanitarias sean utilizadas al mismo tiempo, en un momento dado.

PVC: sigla para el cloruro de polivinilo.

- R - Ramal de alimentación: tubería que abastece de agua a una pieza sanitaria o a un grupo de ellas.

Ramales de descarga: tuberías que reciben directamente los efluentes de las piezas sanitarias.

Ramales de desagüe: tuberías que reciben los efluentes de los ramales de descarga.

Rebalse: tubería o dispositivo destinado a evacuar eventuales excesos de agua en los tanques de almacenamiento, piezas sanitarias u otros accesorios sanitarios.

Red pública: tubería del sistema de distribución del acueducto público o del sistema de recolección de aguas residuales o pluviales de los entes públicos.

Reflujo: flujo en sentido inverso al previsto para un conducto o pieza sanitaria.

Registro: abertura para inspección o limpieza de tanques o trazados de tuberías.

- S - Sello de agua (sello hidráulico): volumen de agua existente en el sifón de una pieza sanitaria y que impide el reflujo de gases, olores y la entrada de animales desde la tubería de descarga hacia la pieza.

Separador: ver interceptor.

Sifón: accesorio cuya función es mantener el sello de agua en la descarga de las piezas sanitarias para evitar que los olores ofensivos provenientes de la red sanitaria ingresen a los aposentos de las edificaciones.

Sifonaje: rotura o pérdida del sello de agua del sifón de una pieza sanitaria, como resultado de la pérdida del agua contenida en él por el efecto de presiones positivas o negativas en el sistema de desagüe.

Sistema de alimentación directa: suministro de agua a los puntos de consumo de una edificación directamente por la presión de servicio de la red pública, cuando los valores mínimos de esta son adecuados para satisfacer continuamente los requerimientos hidráulicos de las instalaciones del abonado.

Sistema de alimentación indirecta: suministro de agua a los puntos de consumo que no utiliza directamente la presión de servicio de la red pública.

Sistema de bajante único de desagüe: sistema de desagüe de un solo conducto en el que se omiten todos o casi todos los conductos de ventilación.

Sistema hidroneumático: sistema que suple agua bajo ciertas condiciones de presión a las tuberías de distribución, por medio de un acumulador de energía por compresión de aire; generalmente, se compone de una bomba y un tanque hidroneumático.

Sistema hidroneumático precargado: sistema de agua potable que cuenta con uno o varios tanques precargados, siendo estos, recipientes herméticos que utilizan una membrana intercambiable o un diafragma, para almacenar agua a presión. Dicha presión se debe a que cuentan con una precarga de aire comprimido en su interior que favorece el trasiego del agua en conjunto con la o las bombas, y ayuda a impulsarla cuando se presenta una demanda.

Sistema de presión constante: sistema que suple agua bajo ciertas condiciones de presión a las tuberías de distribución por medio de un sistema de bombeo; generalmente, se compone de un arreglo de bombas con variador de frecuencia y un sistema de censado de presión.

Sistema de reutilización: sistema que conduce las aguas a reutilizar dentro de una edificación.

Sumidero: accesorio sanitario, con o sin sello hidráulico, destinado a recibir aguas residuales o pluviales del piso de un baño, patio o techo.

- T - Tanque de captación: depósito de agua potable del cual se abastecen los artefactos sanitarios de las edificaciones; puede ser elevado o enterrado, según el espacio disponible para la edificación.

Tanque elevado: tanque de captación para el almacenamiento de agua ubicado en los pisos superiores de una edificación o sobre una estructura concebida para ese fin.

Tanque hidroneumático: reservorio en el que se almacenan agua y aire a presión.

Trampa de grasa: Dispositivo cuya finalidad es separar el agua residual de sustancias más ligeras que tienden a flotar. En viviendas y edificios habitacionales usualmente consisten en tanques rectangulares, construidos o prefabricados, cuya estructura de salida se encuentra sumergida y está ubicada en el lado opuesto al influente, a una cota menor para facilitar la flotación. Para dispositivos de retención de grasas de otro tipo de actividad u ocupación ver interceptor.

Tubería: conducto de sección geométrica regular (generalmente circular) destinado al flujo de un fluido.

Tubería de impulsión: la comprendida entre la descarga de un equipo de bombeo y la entrada a un tanque elevado o punto de consumo.

Tubería de distribución: tubería destinada a llevar agua a todas las piezas sanitarias de una edificación.

Tubería de retorno: tubería que conduce agua de regreso al sistema de producción, en un circuito con recirculación.

Tubería de succión: la comprendida entre un tanque de captación y la entrada a un equipo de bombeo.

Tubería de ventilación: tubería con salida a la atmósfera destinada a permitir la entrada de aire a los sistemas de desagüe y la salida de gases de esos sistemas, con el objetivo de impedir la ruptura del sello de agua de los sifones sanitarios y mantener el flujo a lámina libre en los desagües.

Tubo de ventilación auxiliar: tubería vertical que une un ramal de desagüe al tubo ventilador del circuito correspondiente, o tubo que une el de ventilación principal con el bajante.

Tubo de ventilación en circuito: tubo de ventilación secundario ligado a un ramal de desagüe y que sirve a un grupo de piezas sin ventilación individual.

Tubo de ventilación individual: tubo de ventilación secundario ligado al sifón del tubo de descarga de una pieza sanitaria.

Tubo de ventilación principal: tubo de ventilación vertical en el que se conectan las ventilaciones individuales y que termina en una extensión de ventilación sobre el techo del edificio.

Tubo de ventilación secundario: tubo de ventilación que tiene el extremo superior ligado a una tubería ascendente u otro tubo de ventilación, sea principal o secundario.

Tubería horizontal: para los efectos de estas normas, es cualquier tubería o pieza de conexión instalada en posición tal que forme un ángulo menor de 45° con la horizontal.

Tubería vertical: para los efectos de estas normas, es cualquier tubería o pieza de conexión instalada en posición tal que forme un ángulo de 45° o menos con la vertical.

- U - Unidades de accesorios: unidad empírica de caudal escogida de tal manera que la demanda de agua de las piezas sanitarias pueda ser expresada como múltiplo de esta unidad que se toma como base; la unidad de accesorio de una pieza depende del tipo de pieza, de la duración del gasto, del intervalo entre los usos y de la probabilidad del uso simultáneo; su definición varía según los distintos métodos empleados en el cálculo de los caudales de alimentación de agua potable.

Unidades de descarga: unidad empírica de caudal similar a la anterior, donde las descargas de las piezas sanitarias pueden ser expresadas como múltiplos de esta unidad que se toma como base.

Unión flexible: ver junta flexible.

Urinario: lugar destinado para orinar y, en especial, el dispuesto para el público.

- V - Vacío: cualquier presión menor a la presión atmosférica local.

Válvula de retención: válvula que evita la circulación del flujo en una dirección contraria a la establecida, generalmente conocida como válvula antirretorno, válvula de contraflujo o válvula "check".

Válvula de seguridad: dispositivo destinado a evitar la elevación de la presión por encima de un límite determinado, acorde con la presión normal de funcionamiento; usualmente se encuentran en sistemas de agua caliente, de vapor y de gas LP.

Válvula interruptora de vacío: interruptor de vacío.

Válvula reductora de presión: válvula de control de operación hidráulica que reduce la presión alta, aguas arriba, a una presión menor y constante aguas abajo, sin que le afecten las fluctuaciones en la demanda o en la presión de aguas arriba.

Ventilación artificial o mecánica: es la introducción de aire fresco y no contaminado en un ambiente dado de una edificación, o la remoción del aire vaciado del mismo, permitiendo la entrada de aire fresco y no contaminado; para ello utiliza medios mecánicos, tales como ventiladores de impulsión o de extracción o ductos de ventilación.

Ventilación húmeda: es el método de ventilar sifones de piezas sanitarias utilizando un conducto de desagüe de una pieza sanitaria cuyo sifón esté individualmente ventilado y se instale a no menos de 40 cm sobre el nivel de piso.

NORMAS GENERALES

Toda edificación destinada a uso u ocupación humana debe estar provista de un sistema de abastecimiento de agua potable. Este sistema no debe afectar en ningún momento el grado de pureza del agua destinada al consumo humano y debe garantizar su suministro (caudal y presión suficiente) en todos los puntos de consumo para su adecuado funcionamiento, según lo establecido en este Código.

Toda edificación destinada a ocupación o habitación humana, ubicada dentro de un área servida por un abastecimiento público de agua en condiciones de prestar servicio, deberá aprovechar dicho suministro.

Cuando el abastecimiento público no se encuentre en condiciones de prestar servicio adecuado, ya sea por calidad, cantidad o continuidad, se permitirán sistemas de suministro alterno, siempre que la fuente de agua y su potabilización cumplan con los requisitos establecidos en este Código, así como los requerimientos establecidos por las autoridades sanitarias y administrativas correspondientes. Se debe prestar atención a la cantidad de minerales presentes en el agua que suministra el sistema alterno, ya que el agua desmineralizada o con contenido bajo de minerales es corrosiva, así como perjudicial para la salud humana y de los animales.

Las edificaciones podrán disponer de un abastecimiento de agua no potable o de un sistema de reutilización de agua para fines diferentes al consumo humano, de manera que se contribuya con la disminución del consumo de agua potable y a la gestión adecuada de este recurso natural. Cuando se vaya a utilizar abastecimiento de agua no potable o un sistema de reutilización de agua para fines diferentes al consumo humano, se debe al menos cumplir con las siguientes condiciones: a) dicho abastecimiento deberá contar con redes separadas, sin conexión alguna con el sistema de agua potable, b) que se advierta a todos los usuarios de la edificación, por medio de avisos claramente marcados y profusamente distribuidos, acerca de la falta de potabilidad de dicho sistema, y c) que se distingan las tuberías utilizando los colores respectivos de acuerdo con el artículo 3.9.

Todo sistema de alimentación y distribución de agua potable se protegerá contra conexiones cruzadas.

Toda edificación destinada a ocupación humana deberá poseer un sistema independiente para la evacuación de las aguas residuales y un sistema independiente para la adecuada conducción y evacuación de aguas pluviales, conforme con lo establecido en este Código, sean estos sistemas individuales (recolección y tratamiento) o sistemas administrados por entes públicos, según corresponda. No existirán conexiones cruzadas entre los sistemas de evacuación de aguas residuales y de aguas pluviales.

Los sistemas de las instalaciones hidráulicas y sanitarias para desagüe de aguas residuales deberán diseñarse y construirse en forma tal que permitan un rápido escurrimiento de los desechos, se eviten obstrucciones, impidan el paso de gases, olores y animales de la red pública al interior de las edificaciones, que no permitan el escape de líquidos ni la formación de depósitos en el interior de las tuberías e impidan la contaminación del agua de consumo. Ningún desagüe tendrá conexión alguna con el sistema de agua potable por ningún motivo, así como tampoco con el sistema de desagüe pluvial.

Las tuberías de ventilación sanitaria deberán permitir una evacuación adecuada de los gases que se produzcan o ingresen al sistema y garantizar condiciones de flujo a presión atmosférica, para evitar la pérdida de los sellos hidráulicos e impedir la formación de bolsas de gases dentro de las tuberías de desagüe.

Los diversos sistemas de tuberías de las edificaciones se deberán identificar de acuerdo con la norma oficial para la utilización de colores en seguridad y su simbología establecida, decreto 12715-MEIC del 15 de junio de 1981. Para los casos no contemplados en esta norma, se deberá utilizar como referencia la norma INTE T2:2016 Código de colores para la identificación de los sistemas de tuberías acorde al fluido que conducen.

Las aguas residuales industriales, condensados calientes, las sustancias corrosivas y materias que puedan causar daños o interferir con los procesos de tratamiento existentes o previstos, no podrán ser descargadas directa ni indirectamente al alcantarillado sanitario sin la autorización de descarga del ente administrador del alcantarillado sanitario, y deberán cumplir con los límites de descarga en alcantarillados sanitario dispuestos en el Reglamento de vertido y reúso de aguas residuales, decreto N° 33601 y sus reformas.

No se permitirá verter o descargar aguas pluviales, superficiales, freáticas o de drenajes al alcantarillado de aguas residuales. Los sistemas de aguas residuales y de aguas pluviales de las edificaciones serán total y completamente independientes.

Toda edificación ubicada dentro de un área servida por un alcantarillado sanitario en condiciones de prestar servicio deberá descargar sus aguas residuales en dicho alcantarillado, excepto en los casos cubiertos por los artículos 3.14 y 3.15. La interconexión de la conexión domiciliaria con el alcantarillado sanitario será realizada bajo la autorización y supervisión de la autoridad administrativa del servicio de alcantarillado.

Cuando no exista un alcantarillado sanitario con capacidad de prestar servicio a la edificación, se permitirá el tratamiento y desecho de las aguas residuales por medio de sistemas individuales, siempre que cumplan con las normas establecidas por las autoridades sanitarias correspondientes (Ministerio de Salud y AyA).

Cuando la conducción o descarga de las aguas residuales o de lluvia no pueda hacerse por gravedad, deberá efectuarse el bombeo de estas de acuerdo con lo establecido en este Código. En caso de instalaciones domésticas unifamiliares, se permitirá el desecho de las aguas residuales mediante sistemas domésticos de tratamiento.

En las poblaciones, áreas suburbanas y rurales, así como lugares de trabajo donde no exista red de alcantarillado sanitario ni servicio de agua, las excretas deberán depositarse en unidades para el tratamiento seco, húmedo, por compostaje u otra forma satisfactoria, siempre que se cumplan los requisitos mínimos establecidos en este Código y por la autoridad sanitaria.

Los sistemas de las instalaciones hidráulicas y sanitarias deberán diseñarse y ejecutarse teniendo en cuenta el aspecto estructural de la edificación, evitando cualquier daño o disminución de la resistencia de las paredes, columnas, vigas, cimentaciones y cualquier otro elemento estructural, tal como lo indica el Código Sísmico de Costa Rica.

Los materiales empleados en las instalaciones de los sistemas de desagüe de los edificios deberán cumplir con los requisitos y especificaciones incluidos en este Código.

Los sistemas de las instalaciones hidráulicas y sanitarias cubiertas por este Código deberán ser proyectadas y diseñadas por personas profesionales registradas en el Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica, quienes deberán seguir las disposiciones del presente Código.

Las personas miembros del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica tienen la obligación de cumplir con las disposiciones, deberes y obligaciones establecidas en el presente Código. Su incumplimiento será sancionado conforme a lo establecido en la Ley Orgánica del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y de Arquitectos de Costa Rica y su Código de Ética Profesional.

En el caso de edificios para condominios, se deben respetar las disposiciones de la ley N.º 7933, Ley Reguladora de la Propiedad en Condominio, y su reglamento.

En el caso de construcciones donde sea notificado por la autoridad correspondiente que es necesario mantener un nivel de escorrentía del terreno, se deberá gestionar la escorrentía preferiblemente mediante el uso de infraestructura verde, la cual deberá cumplir con los requisitos de este Código y los criterios dictados por la institución responsable del acueducto.

Los sistemas de las instalaciones hidráulicas y sanitarias deberán diseñarse y ejecutarse teniendo en cuenta la seguridad humana y la protección contra incendios, evitando cualquier afectación o disminución de la protección de las barreras cortafuego y humo en las paredes, columnas, vigas, cielos, entrepisos, y cualquier otro elemento de protección pasiva, tal como lo indica el Reglamento nacional de protección contra incendios del Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica.

Cuando una edificación cambie de uso, la persona profesional responsable deberá realizar las modificaciones necesarias para que el nuevo uso cumpla los requerimientos establecidos en este Código.

DOTACIONES DE AGUA POTABLE

Las dotaciones mínimas de agua para uso doméstico, comercial, industrial, riego de jardín y otros fines se calcularán de acuerdo con lo establecido en la Tabla 4.1 Dotaciones mínimas diarias.

Tabla 4.1 DOTACIONES MÍNIMAS DIARIAS | Clase de edificación | Dotación (Litros/persona/día) | | --- | --- | | Casas de interés social | 150 | | Casas unifamiliares | | | Zona urbana | 250 | | Zona rural | 200 | | Zona costera | 300 | | Apartamentos y condominios | | | Zona urbana | 250 | | Zona rural | 200 | | Zona costera | 300 | | Hoteles, albergues y alojamientos (no incluye dotación por cocina, lavandería o restaurante) | 200 | | Servicio de salud - paciente visitante | 12 | | Instalaciones deportivas y baños públicos | 50 | | Oficinas de alquiler cualquier tipo | 50 | | Cines, teatros, auditorios, espectáculos, reuniones, templos | 8 | | Estadios, gimnasios y similares | 4 |

Tabla 4.1 DOTACIONES MÍNIMAS DIARIAS (continuación) | Clase de edificación | Dotación | Unidades | | --- | --- | --- | | Hospitales - paciente internado (1) | 1250 | L / día / cama | | Escuelas | | | | Alumnado externo nivel preescolar | 20 | L / m2 área útil / día | | Alumnado externo nivel básico y medio | 25 | | | Alumnado externo nivel medio y superior | 25 | | | Alumnado interno | 150 | L / persona / día | | Restaurantes, bares y similares (en ningún caso podrá ser menor a 2000 L/día) | 25 | L / persona / día | | 50 | L / m2 área útil / día | | | Edificios de uso comerciales y edificios para oficina | 50 | L / persona / día | | 6 | L / m2 área útil / día | | | Salas de baile y similares | 30 | L / m2 área útil / día | | Carnicerías y pescaderías | 20 | L / m2 área útil / día | | Estacionamientos | 2 | L / m2 área útil / día | | Piscinas | | | | Con recirculación | 10 | L / m2 área útil / día | | Sin recirculación | 25 | | | Mercados | 5 | L / m2 / día | | 100 | L / tramo / día | | | Terminales de transporte y de autobuses regionales y foráneos | 10 | L / pasajero / día | | Estaciones de sistemas de transporte colectivo urbano y estaciones intermodales de transporte | 2 | L / m2 / día | | Lavanderías | | | | Al seco, tintorería | 30 | L / kg / día | | Ropas en general | 40 | | | Estaciones de lavado de autos | 8000 | L / día / equipo de lavado | | Estaciones de policía y de bomberos | 200 | L / colaborador por turno / día | | Lecherías | 120 | L / cabeza / día | | Mataderos | | | | Animales grandes | 300 | L/animal sacrificado/día | | Animales pequeños | 150 | | | Aves de corral | 16 | | | Criaderos de animales | | | | Ganado lechero | 120 | L / animal / día | | Bovinos | 40 | | | Ovinos | 10 | | | Equino | 40 | | | Porcino | 10 - 30 | | | Aves de corral | 20 | L / 100 aves / día | Notas (1) Según mediciones realizadas en dos hospitales nacionales (Hospital México y Hospital Nacional de Niños). Se deberá incrementar la dotación en caso de que el hospital cuente con lavandería.

PIEZAS SANITARIAS 5.1 DISPOSICIONES GENERALES

El número y tipo de piezas sanitarias que deberán ser instaladas en los baños, cuartos de aseo, salas de lactancia, cocinas y otras dependencias de un edificio serán proporcionales al número de personas servidas y según el uso a que se les destine, de acuerdo con lo requerido en el presente Código.

En todo tipo de edificaciones, sean públicas o privadas, donde exista concurrencia o atención al público, se deberá disponer de servicios sanitarios con facilidades de acceso para el uso de las personas adultas mayores y cumplir con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento Sobre la Igualdad de Oportunidades para Personas con Discapacidad y con el Reglamento de Construcciones del Instituto Nacional de Vivienda y Urbanismo.

En todo tipo de edificaciones, sean públicas o privadas, los espacios de lactancia materna deberán, como mínimo, cumplir lo dispuesto en el Reglamento de condiciones para espacios de lactancia materna en los centros de trabajo, Decreto Ejecutivo N.° 44943-MTSS-S y sus reformas.

En todo tipo de edificaciones, sean públicas o privadas, donde exista concurrencia o atención de público y con asistencia infantil o familiar se deberá de disponer de mesas para cambio de pañales en los cuartos de baño de hombres y de mujeres, o adecuar baños destinados únicamente para su uso y atención. Si la edificación dispone de una sola batería sanitaria unisex o si dispone de baños familiares, este deberá disponer de una mesa para cambio de pañales. Alternativamente, y salvaguardando la privacidad y seguridad de las personas menores de edad, se podrá disponer de mesas para cambio de pañales fuera de los cuartos de baño, en cuyo caso deberán de proveerse con un lavatorio, como mínimo, para el lavado de manos, así como también con un área adecuada para la disposición de los residuos sólidos. Las mesas para cambio de pañales deberán tener un espacio libre mínimo debajo del equipo de 760×1220 mm (30×48 pulgadas) y estar instalados a una altura máxima de 865 mm (34 pulgadas), cuando la mesa se encuentre abierta. Se recomienda su instalación cerca de un lavamanos y de un contenedor de residuos sólidos, así como estar ubicadas en las zonas comunes del baño, fuera de las rutas de movimiento. Se debe evitar la colocación de las mesas para cambio de pañales dentro de cualquier compartimiento de inodoro, a fin de no atar innecesariamente el equipo al compartimiento. Colocar las mesas para cambio en un baño familiar es también una buena práctica.

En todo tipo de edificaciones, sean públicas o privadas, donde exista concurrencia o atención de público y con asistencia infantil o familiar, se deberá de disponer de asientos de protección para niños en los compartimientos de los inodoros; estos asientos facilitan un lugar seguro y cómodo para los infantes, por lo general con un máximo de peso de hasta 22,5 kg (50 lb). Estos asientos serán instalados dentro del compartimiento de los inodoros, para proporcionar acceso visual y físico. Se instalarán a una altura desde el piso hacia la parte inferior del asiento en modo operativo no menor de 380 mm (15 pulgadas). En su instalación se deber evaluar la operatividad y alcance del equipo, tanto en modo activo como inactivo, y cuando el equipo esté en uso, se deberá garantizar que exista espacio suficiente para maniobrar alrededor del infante sentado.

En locales comerciales de gran afluencia de público, tales como centros comerciales, supermercados, tiendas de departamentos, sucursales bancarias, parques de atracciones o de diversiones, museos y centros de convenciones, templos religiosos y centros de enseñanza de educación superior, entre otros, se deberá contar con al menos una sala de lactancia materna de uso público y discrecional para que las madres puedan dar de mamar o extraer su leche. Esta sala será un espacio exclusivo para dicho propósito y deberá contar con una superficie libre de al menos dos metros cuadrados (2 m2), con ventilación e iluminación adecuada, natural de preferencia, así como condiciones higiénicas, privacidad y de seguridad apropiadas. Como mínimo la sala deberá contar con un lavatorio para el lavado de manos. El número de total de salas por edificación y sus dimensiones deberá estar en proporción razonada con el número total de mujeres en lactancia que se esperan en la edificación, partiendo de la experiencia de que no todas las madres las usarán de manera simultánea.

5.2 DEL NÚMERO DE PIEZAS SANITARIAS POR TIPO DE EDIFICACIÓN

Toda residencia unifamiliar estará dotada de al menos una batería sanitaria con inodoro, lavatorio y ducha. La cocina dispondrá de un fregadero y, en sitio aparte, se proveerá una batea o pila para lavar ropa. Sin perjuicio de lo anterior, se permitirá omitir la pila de lavar en edificaciones unifamiliares múltiples de un solo dormitorio o de un solo ambiente o de tipo estudio, siempre que se instalen estas piezas en sitio techado de la edificación, en proporción no menor de una batea por cada tres edificaciones unifamiliares.

Los edificios destinados a uso comercial u oficinas deberán dotarse, como mínimo, de servicios sanitarios en la forma, tipo y número siguientes:

a. En espacios para uso comercial u oficinas con un área hasta de ciento cincuenta metros cuadrados (150 m2), o donde el número de personas, sumando colaboradores y clientes se estime que sea menor a quince (15), se podrá disponer de un cubículo para servicio sanitario unisex dotado de inodoro y lavatorio, para uso indistinto de los colaboradores y de los clientes.

b. En espacios para uso comercial u oficinas con un área mayor a ciento cincuenta metros cuadrados (150 m2) se dispondrá de al menos dos baterías de servicios sanitarios; una de ellas para hombres y la otra para mujeres, dotados, cada uno, de las piezas sanitarias que indica la tabla 5.1. Al utilizar esta tabla, se deberá usar la situación más crítica y a partir de 1101 metros cuadrados regirá la cantidad de personas en el edificio comercial. La aplicación de la Tabla 5.1 es de uso obligatorio para proyectar baterías de baños de cualquier uso comercial distinto al indicado en el inciso d de este artículo.

c. Cuando se proyecte usar servicios sanitarios comunes a varios comercios, oficinas o pisos, se requerirá cumplir con lo especificado en el punto b de este artículo. Además, cuando un edificio conste de varios pisos se proveerá por lo menos una solución sanitaria para hombres y otro para mujeres en cada piso servido.

d. En edificios comerciales de gran afluencia de público, tales como centros comerciales, supermercados, tiendas de departamentos, sucursales bancarias, parques de atracciones o de diversiones, museos y centros de convenciones, entre otros, habrá servicios sanitarios de uso público tanto para hombres como para mujeres, por lo menos uno en cada piso y que cumpla con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 de acuerdo con lo indicado en la Tabla 5.2. En este caso, lo indicado en la Tabla 5.1 será válido para el personal permanente del comercio u oficina. Al utilizar esta tabla, se deberá usar la situación más crítica, ya sea la que establezca el número de personas, o bien la que imponga el área del comercio u oficina.

e. Se instalarán hasta 4 fuentes para beber en cada piso ocupado por personas a razón de una por cada ochenta (80) personas. A partir de la quinta fuente será una (1) por cada 400 personas adicionales. Estas fuentes deberán ser desinfectadas diariamente para reducir la posibilidad de contaminación bacteriana, así como ser inspeccionadas y mantenidas regularmente.

f. Se deberá instalar en cada piso una pileta para la limpieza del equipo utilizado en las labores de aseo.

Tabla 5.1 NÚMERO DE PIEZAS SANITARIAS EN COMERCIOS Y OFICINAS MAYORES DE 150 m2 | N° personas | Área (m2) | Baño de Hombres | Baño de Mujeres | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Inodoro | Lavatorio | Mingitorio | Inodoro | Lavatorio | | | | 0-15 | 150-300 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | | 16-25 | 301-500 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 | | 26-40 | 501-800 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 2 | | 41-55 | 801-1100 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 3 | | --- | > 1101 | | 1 inodoro por cada 500 | | | | | | | 1 inodoro y 1 mingitorio por cada 500 personas adicionales simultáneas | personas adicionales simultáneas. | | | | | | | 1 lavatorio por cada 750 personas adicionales simultáneas (incluye visitantes y colaboradores) | 1 lavatorio por cada 750 personas adicionales simultáneas (incluye visitantes y | | | | | | | | colaboradores) | | | | Nota: El área se estima a partir del número de personas, considerando una persona cada 10 m2 que la población está igualmente dividida entre hombres y mujeres.

Tabla 5.2 NÚMERO DE PIEZAS SANITARIAS PARA USO DE LOS CLIENTES | Área (m2) | Baño de Hombres | Baño de Mujeres | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Inodoro | Lavatorio | Mingitorio | Inodoro | Lavatorio | | | 0-200 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | | 201-500 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 2 | | 501-1000 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 2 | | > 1000 | 1 inodoro y 1 mingitorio por cada 500 personas adicionales simultáneas 1 lavatorio por cada 750 personas adicionales simultáneas (incluye visitantes y colaboradores) | | | | |

En establecimientos industriales, si el personal excede diez personas, habrá servicios sanitarios separados para hombres y mujeres, dotados de piezas sanitarias de acuerdo con lo siguiente:

a. Los inodoros estarán en proporción de uno por cada veinte (20) hombres o fracción de esta cifra, y uno por cada quince (15) mujeres o fracción de esta cifra presentes por turno de trabajo, cuando el total de trabajadores sea menor de cien (100). Cuando el número total de trabajadores exceda de este monto, deberá instalarse un inodoro adicional por cada veinticinco (25) hombres y uno por cada veinte (20) mujeres o fracción de esta cifra presentes por turno de trabajo.

b. Los mingitorios estarán en proporción de uno por cada treinta (30) hombres o fracción de esta cifra trabajando por turno.

c. Los lavatorios estarán en proporción de uno por cada diez (10) personas o fracción de esta cifra trabajando por turno, cuando el total de personas sea menor a cien. Cuando el número de personas sea mayor a cien (100) se deberá instalar un lavatorio adicional por cada quince (15) trabajadores.

d. En aquellos trabajos que por su especial naturaleza resulten peligrosos, sea porque los trabajadores están expuestos a calor excesivo o a contaminación de la piel con sustancias o polvos venenosos, infecciosos o irritantes, se deberán disponer duchas en la proporción de una por cada diez (10) trabajadores, o fracción de esta cifra, que cesen su trabajo simultáneamente.

e. En todo establecimiento industrial, sea público o privado, debe existir al menos un servicio sanitario accesible para el uso de hombres y otro para el uso de mujeres.

f. Se deberá instalar en cada piso una pileta para la limpieza del equipo utilizado en las labores de aseo.

Si el personal está compuesto por diez (10) personas o menos, se dispondrá de una sala sanitaria dotada de un mingitorio, un inodoro y un lavatorio. Esta sala sanitaria deberá cumplir con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento.

En caso de que el número de trabajadores no esté especificado, se estimará basándose en la proporción de un trabajador de cada sexo por cada treinta metros cuadrados (30 m2) de área útil de piso de la edificación destinado a industria.

En restaurantes, salas de baile, cafeterías, bares y similares con capacidad de atención hasta de diez (10) personas simultáneamente, dispondrán de al menos una batería sanitaria dotado de un inodoro y un lavatorio. Cuando la capacidad sobrepase las diez (10) personas, se dispondrán de servicios separados para hombres y mujeres de acuerdo con la Tabla 5.3. Al menos dos (2) de estos servicios serán cumplir con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento, uno para hombres y otro para mujeres.

Tabla 5.3 NÚMERO DE PIEZAS SANITARIAS EN RESTAURANTES, BARES Y SIMILARES PARA USO DE LOS CLIENTES

| 51-100 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 101-150 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | | 151-200 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 3 | | 201-250 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | | 251-300 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 4 | | Más de 300 | 1 cada 80 hombres | 1 cada 60 hombres | 1 cada 80 hombres | 1 cada 60 mujeres | 1 cada 60 mujeres |

Para el personal de servicio se dispondrá de servicios sanitarios independientes de los del público, cuando el número de colaboradores presentes exceda de seis (6) personas. En tal caso, se dispondrá de servicios sanitarios de acuerdo con lo estipulado en la Tabla 5.1. Al utilizar esta tabla, se deberá usar la situación más crítica, ya sea la que establezca el número de personas o bien la que imponga el área del establecimiento. Al menos uno de estos servicios sanitarios cumplirá con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento.

En las áreas de preparación de alimentos, se deberá instalar el número adecuado de accesorios, según lo indique la autoridad sanitaria (Ministerio de Salud).

Se deberá disponer, en la cocina, de facilidades para el lavado de manos de los colaboradores.

En salas de espectáculos, como cines, teatros, auditorios y similares, así como en edificaciones deportivas, tales como estadios, arenas, hipódromos, plazas de toros y similares, se proveerán cuartos de baños para el público, separados para hombres y para mujeres, según lo indicado en la tabla 5.4. Como mínimo, deberán existir dos (2) cuartos de baño, uno para hombres y otro para mujeres, cumpliendo con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento.

Se deberán instalar fuentes para beber en los vestíbulos de cada cuarto de baño, nunca dentro del cuarto, de acuerdo con las siguientes proporciones:

a. Una fuente: 1-100 personas b. Dos fuentes: 101-300 personas c. Tres fuentes: 301-500 personas d. Mayor a 500: agregar una por cada 400 personas Al menos una de esas fuentes deberá cumplir con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento. Estas fuentes deberán ser desinfectadas diariamente, para reducir la posibilidad de contaminación bacteriana, así como ser inspeccionadas y mantenidas regularmente.

Se deberán proveer, además, servicios sanitarios para los actores, jugadores y colaboradores, según el artículo 5.2.2 y la Tabla 5.1 (utilizando el número de personas y no el área).

Tabla 5.4 NÚMERO DE PIEZAS SANITARIAS EN SALAS DE ESPECTÁCULO, AUDITORIOS, STADIOS, TEMPLOS Y SIMILARES | Capacidad del Nº personas | Baño de Hombres | Baño de Mujeres | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Inodoro | Lavatorio | Mingitorio | Inodoro | Lavatorio | | | 1-100 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | | 101-200 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 8 | 3 | | 201-400 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 11 | 4 | | Más de 400 | 1 cada 400 hombres | 1 cada 250 hombres | 1 cada 125 mujeres | 1 cada 400 mujeres | |

En los templos religiosos, se deberán proveer servicios sanitarios separados por sexo y la cantidad de piezas sanitarias estará de acuerdo con las siguientes proporciones:

a. Inodoro: 1 por cada 150 hombres / 75 mujeres.

b. Lavatorio: 1 por cada 300 hombres / 150 mujeres.

c. Mingitorio: 1 por cada 75 hombres.

Como mínimo, deberán existir dos cuartos de baño que cumplan con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento, uno para hombres y otro para mujeres.

Los servicios sanitarios de las estaciones de servicio deberán cumplir con lo establecido en el Reglamento para la regulación del sistema de almacenamiento y comercialización de hidrocarburos, decreto N° 30131-MINAE-S y sus reformas.

En las estaciones de servicio se deberán proveer de, al menos, tres servicios sanitarios. Uno de ellos será para los trabajadores y dos para uso del público, uno para mujeres y otro para hombres. Estos servicios contarán, cuando menos, con un inodoro y un lavatorio cada uno, y un mingitorio en el de hombres. Además, deberá proveerse una ducha accesible para los trabajadores.

Los servicios sanitarios de las estaciones de servicio deberán cumplir con lo establecido en la normativa emitida para este tipo de instalaciones por la autoridad nacional competente.

En los centros de enseñanza se proveerá para los estudiantes de servicios sanitarios separados para hombres y mujeres; la cantidad de accesorios por instalar estará de acuerdo con lo indicado en la Tabla 5.5. Como mínimo, deberán existir dos cuartos de baño que cumplan con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento en cada piso, uno para hombres y otro para mujeres.

En los centros de enseñanza se dispondrán cuartos de baño para los maestros, profesores y demás colaboradores administrativos. Cuando el número de estos funcionarios sea menor a diez (10) personas, habrá por lo menos un servicio sanitario dotado de un lavatorio y un inodoro. Este servicio sanitario deberá cumplir con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento. Cuando el personal docente sobrepase de diez (10) personas, se aplicará lo dispuesto en la Tabla 5.6. Al menos dos de estos servicios deberán cumplir con los criterios de accesibilidad a entornos físicos establecidos en la Ley 7600 y su reglamento, uno para hombres y otro para mujeres.

Tabla 5.5 NÚMERO DE PIEZAS SANITARIAS EN CENTROS EDUCATIVOS PARA ESTUDIANTES