Plumbing and sanitary work is critical for maintaining health, hygiene, and comfort in buildings. This training module covers the complete process of plumbing installations from material selection to testing and commissioning, ensuring quality workmanship and compliance with IS codes and standards.
Training Duration: 1 week
Prerequisite Skills: Basic knowledge of plumbing tools, materials, and reading plumbing drawings
Below are the key IS codes that govern plumbing and sanitary installations in India. Familiarity with these standards is essential for quality and compliant work.
| IS Code |
Title |
Scope |
| IS 1172:1993 |
Code of Basic Requirements for Water Supply, Drainage and Sanitation |
Provides general requirements for building water supply and sanitation |
| IS 2065:1983 |
Code of Practice for Water Supply in Buildings |
Guidelines for water supply systems in buildings |
| IS 1742:1983 |
Code of Practice for Building Drainage |
Guidelines for drainage systems in buildings |
| IS 5329:1983 |
Code of Practice for Sanitary Pipe Work Above Ground for Buildings |
Requirements for above-ground sanitary piping |
| IS 12183:1987 |
Code of Practice for Plumbing in Multi-storeyed Buildings |
Special considerations for high-rise plumbing |
| IS Code |
Title |
Type |
| IS 1239:2004 |
Steel Tubes, Tubulars and Other Wrought Steel Fittings |
GI pipes and fittings |
| IS 4985:2000 |
Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies |
UPVC pipes |
| IS 15778:2007 |
Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) Pipes for Potable Hot and Cold Water Supply |
CPVC pipes |
| IS 7834:1987 |
Injection Moulded PVC Socket Fittings with Solvent Cement Joints |
PVC fittings |
| IS 8008:2003 |
Injection Moulded HDPE Fittings |
HDPE fittings |
| IS 3989:1984 |
Specification for Centrifugally Cast (Spun) Iron Spigot and Socket Soil, Waste and Ventilating Pipes |
CI pipes |
| IS Code |
Title |
Fixture Type |
| IS 771:1979 |
Specification for Glazed Fire Clay Sanitary Appliances |
Ceramic fixtures |
| IS 2556:1994 |
Specification for Vitreous Sanitary Appliances |
Vitreous china fixtures |
| IS 774:2004 |
Specification for Flushing Cisterns |
Flushing systems |
| IS 1795:1982 |
Specification for Pillar Taps for Water Supply |
Taps and faucets |
| IS 8931:1993 |
Specification for Copper Alloy Fancy Single Tap and Stop Valve for Water Services |
Taps and valves |
Important: Always refer to the latest revision of IS codes. The standards are periodically updated to incorporate new technologies and safety considerations.
- Pipe wrenches: For gripping and turning pipes and fittings (8", 10", 12", 14" sizes)
- Adjustable wrenches: For nuts and bolts of various sizes
- Pipe cutter: For clean cuts on metal and plastic pipes
- Hacksaw: For cutting pipes where pipe cutters cannot reach
- Tubing cutter: For copper and smaller diameter pipes
- Threading dies: For creating threads on GI pipes
- Plunger: For clearing simple clogs
- Plumber's snake/auger: For clearing stubborn pipe blockages
- Pliers: Including slip-joint, tongue-and-groove, and needle-nose varieties
- Spirit level: For ensuring pipe gradients and horizontal/vertical alignment
- Teflon tape: For sealing threaded connections
- Pipe bender: For creating curves in copper and PEX pipes
- Pressure testing equipment: Pump and gauges for testing pipe system integrity
- Pipe inspection camera: For visual inspection inside pipes
- Water level indicator: For checking water levels in tanks
- Hole saw kit: For making precise holes in surfaces for pipe penetrations
- Heat gun: For heat-shrink applications and CPVC pipe joining
- Soldering torch: For copper pipe connections
- Pipe alignment tools: For ensuring proper alignment during installation
- Socket fusion tool: For joining HDPE pipes
- Safety goggles: For eye protection during cutting and soldering
- Work gloves: For hand protection
- Safety boots: With steel toes for foot protection
- Respirator mask: For protection when working with adhesives or in dusty environments
- Knee pads: For comfort during floor-level work
- First aid kit: For immediate treatment of minor injuries
Pro Tip: Proper maintenance of tools ensures longevity and safety. Clean and store tools in a dry place after use. Regularly check for damage and replace worn-out tools.
| Material |
IS Code |
Applications |
Advantages |
Limitations |
| Galvanized Iron (GI) |
IS 1239 |
Cold water supply, fire fighting |
Durability, strength, high pressure resistance |
Corrosion prone, heavy, difficult to cut & thread |
| Unplasticized PVC (UPVC) |
IS 4985 |
Cold water distribution |
Lightweight, corrosion resistant, easy installation |
Lower pressure rating, UV degradation if exposed |
| Chlorinated PVC (CPVC) |
IS 15778 |
Hot and cold water supply |
Temperature resistant (up to 82°C), chemical resistant |
Higher cost, special solvent cement required |
| Polyethylene (HDPE) |
IS 4984 |
Water mains, underground supply |
Flexible, chemically resistant, long service life |
Special fusion joining equipment needed |
| Copper |
IS 10805 |
Hot and cold water, specialized applications |
Corrosion resistant, biostatic properties, heat resistant |
High cost, requires skill for soldering joints |
| PPR (Polypropylene Random) |
IS 15801 |
Hot and cold water distribution |
Chemical resistant, non-toxic, heat fusion joints |
Special heat fusion tools required, higher expansion rate |
| Material |
IS Code |
Applications |
Advantages |
Limitations |
| Cast Iron (CI) |
IS 3989 |
Soil, waste & vent stack pipes |
Strength, durability, fire resistant, sound deadening |
Heavy, expensive, difficult to cut & join |
| PVC (SWR Grade) |
IS 13592 |
Soil, waste & rainwater pipes |
Lightweight, easy to install, corrosion resistant |
Less durable than CI, expands/contracts with temperature |
| RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) |
IS 458 |
Underground drainage |
High strength, suitable for heavy loads |
Heavy, difficult to handle, rigid system |
| HDPE Double Wall Corrugated |
IS 16098 |
Underground drainage |
Flexible, crush resistant, chemical resistant |
Special fittings required, higher cost |
| Stoneware (SW) |
IS 651 |
Underground drainage |
Acid resistant, durable, long service life |
Brittle, heavy, specialized handling needed |
- Elbow: Changes pipe direction at specific angles (45° or 90°)
- Coupling: Joins two pipes of the same diameter
- Reducer: Connects pipes of different diameters
- Tee: Creates branch connection at 90° angle
- Union: Allows easy connection/disconnection of pipes
- Nipple: Short pipe with threads on both ends
- Gate valve: For full flow shut-off (not for flow regulation)
- Globe valve: For flow regulation
- Check valve: Allows flow in one direction only
- Float valve: Controls water level in tanks
- Traps: P-trap, S-trap, Q-trap for preventing sewer gas entry
- Floor drain: Collects water from floor surfaces
- Cleanout: Access point for clearing blockages
- Pressure reducing valve: Lowers water pressure to desired level
Material Selection Guide: Always select materials based on application requirements, water chemistry, pressure, temperature, and local code compliance. Using incorrect materials can lead to premature failure and safety hazards.
- Study plumbing drawings and identify connection points
- Mark pipe routes on walls/floors following the drawings
- Identify fixture locations and required pipe sizes
- Plan for minimum bends to reduce pressure loss
- Ensure adequate clearances from electrical lines (min. 300mm)
- Plan valve locations for isolation of different areas
- Create detailed material take-off list based on layout
- Get layout approval from site engineer before proceeding
- Measure pipe lengths accurately, allowing for fittings
- For GI pipes: Use pipe cutter or hacksaw with cutting guide
- Remove burrs with reamer or file to ensure smooth flow
- For threading GI pipes: Use appropriate die size
- Apply cutting oil during threading for smooth threads
- For PVC/CPVC: Cut square with fine-tooth saw or pipe cutter
- Chamfer edges of plastic pipes for easier insertion into fittings
- Clean pipes thoroughly after cutting
| Pipe Material |
Joining Method |
Procedure |
Key Points |
| GI Pipes |
Threaded Joints |
Apply Teflon tape or pipe joint compound, tighten with pipe wrench |
Wrap Teflon clockwise, use 3-4 wraps, avoid over-tightening |
| PVC/UPVC |
Solvent Cement |
Clean, apply primer, apply cement, insert and twist, hold for 30 seconds |
Use appropriate solvent for pipe type, ensure dry surfaces |
| CPVC |
Solvent Cement |
Clean, apply CPVC primer, apply CPVC cement, join, hold for 30 seconds |
Use only CPVC specific cement, avoid excess cement inside pipe |
| PPR |
Heat Fusion |
Heat pipe and fitting to 260°C, join when soft, hold until cooled |
Use PPR fusion tool, maintain correct heating time based on diameter |
| HDPE |
Butt Fusion/Electrofusion |
Clean ends, heat to melting point, join under pressure, cool |
Requires specialized equipment, follow temperature guidelines |
Proper support prevents pipe sagging, vibration, and stress on joints. Below are maximum recommended intervals for horizontal pipe supports as per IS:2065.
| Pipe Material |
Pipe Size (mm) |
Horizontal Spacing (m) |
Vertical Spacing (m) |
| GI |
15-20 |
2.5 |
3.0 |
| GI |
25-40 |
3.0 |
3.6 |
| GI |
50-150 |
3.6 |
4.5 |
| PVC/CPVC |
15-25 |
0.75 |
1.0 |
| PVC/CPVC |
32-50 |
1.0 |
1.5 |
| PVC/CPVC |
65-80 |
1.5 |
2.0 |
Thermal expansion must be accommodated, especially for plastic pipes and hot water lines.
- For PVC/CPVC: Allow 10mm expansion space per 4m of pipe
- Install expansion loops or offsets in long straight runs
- Use expansion joints where necessary
- For vertical risers, allow for movement at each floor
- Use loose clamps that allow for axial movement
Essential Practice: Always install isolation valves at key points in the system, including main supply, branch lines, and before each fixture. This allows for repairs without shutting down the entire system.
- Soil pipes: Carry toilet waste (100mm diameter)
- Waste pipes: Carry sink, basin, shower waste (75-80mm diameter)
- Vent pipes: Prevent trap seal loss and allow proper flow
- Traps: Water seals preventing sewer gas entry
- Floor traps: Collect water from bathroom floors
- Gully traps: Connect waste pipes to main drainage
- Manholes: Access points for inspection and cleaning
- Inspection chambers: Smaller access points
- Grease traps: For kitchen waste lines
Proper gradient ensures adequate flow velocity for self-cleaning action while preventing excessive speeds that can break trap seals.
| Pipe Type |
Recommended Gradient |
Min. Diameter |
Notes |
| Horizontal soil pipe |
1:40 to 1:60 |
100mm |
Lower gradient for heavier flow |
| Horizontal waste pipe |
1:40 to 1:50 |
75mm |
Gradient depends on length and fixtures |
| Branch waste pipe |
1:30 to 1:40 |
32-40mm |
For single fixture connection |
| Main drain line |
1:100 to 1:200 |
150mm |
Based on calculated flow rate |
- Excavate trench to required depth and gradient
- Provide 150mm sand bedding for pipe support
- Lay pipes starting from lower end (outlet) to higher end
- Join pipes according to material requirements
- Ensure socket ends face upstream
- Provide minimum 300mm cover above pipe crown
- Test for leaks before backfilling
- Fill with approved material in 150mm layers, compacting each layer
- Install P-traps for washbasins, sinks and showers
- Use S-traps or P-traps for water closets based on outlet direction
- Floor traps should have minimum 50mm water seal
- Install bottle traps where space is limited
- Ensure trap outlet connects properly to waste pipe
- Position cleanout access for easy maintenance
- Secure traps to prevent movement
Vent pipes maintain atmospheric pressure in drainage systems, preventing siphonage of trap seals and allowing proper flow.
- Install vent pipes to extend minimum 2m above roof level
- Connect vent stacks to soil/waste stack below lowest fixture
- Install air admittance valves where conventional venting is difficult
- Maintain minimum 75mm diameter for vent stacks
- Fix vent pipes securely to walls/structures
- Terminate vent pipes with mesh to prevent bird entry
- Ensure vent termination is away from windows/air intakes (minimum 3m)
Design Principle: A properly designed drainage system should be self-scouring (minimum velocity 0.75 m/s), self-venting, and accessible for maintenance.
| Fixture |
Height from Floor (mm) |
Min. Clearance (mm) |
Comments |
| Water Closet |
400-430 (seat height) |
450 from side walls |
600mm clear space in front |
| Washbasin |
750-800 (top edge) |
200 from side walls |
Center tap hole 850mm from floor |
| Shower head |
2100-2200 |
900 x 900 stall minimum |
Control valves at 1200mm height |
| Kitchen sink |
850-900 (top edge) |
600 clear counter on each side |
Counter depth 600mm standard |
| Urinal |
650 (front lip edge) |
300 between units |
Flush valve at 1100-1200mm |
| Taps/Faucets |
1050-1100 (bib taps) |
150 from finished wall |
Ensure adequate spout projection |
- Check and mark correct position as per drawing
- Verify drainage connection point and trap type
- For floor-mounted WC: Mark and drill holes for floor bolts
- Apply plumber's putty or wax ring to base
- Position WC carefully over drainage point
- Secure with bolts (don't overtighten - may crack ceramic)
- For wall-hung WC: Install carrier/support frame securely
- Connect water supply to cistern
- Test flush mechanism and check for leaks
- Apply silicone sealant around base
- Mark position on wall at correct height
- Install wall brackets or pedestal support
- Connect P-trap to waste outlet
- Connect waste pipe to trap
- Install tap/faucet and connect water supply
- Test for leaks at all connections
- Apply silicone sealant between basin and wall
- For counter-mounted basins: apply sealant between basin and countertop
- Install shower trap at correct position
- Connect trap to drainage line with proper gradient
- Install mixer/control valve body in wall
- Connect hot and cold water supply lines
- Mount shower head arm at appropriate height
- Install diverter valve if shower-tub combination
- Pressure test connections before closing walls
- Apply waterproofing in shower area
- After tiling, install trim pieces and shower head
- Test operation and check for leaks
Critical Point: Ensure all fixture installations include appropriate isolation valves for each water supply connection. This allows for future maintenance without shutting down the entire system.
Testing water supply systems verifies integrity and identifies leaks before system operation. As per IS:2065, the following tests are mandatory:
- Hydraulic pressure test:
- Close all outlets and fill system with water
- Apply pressure of 1.5 times working pressure or minimum 6 kg/cm²
- Maintain pressure for minimum 1 hour
- Check for leaks at all joints and connections
- System passes if pressure drop is less than 0.2 kg/cm²
- Flow and pressure test:
- Open fixtures to check for adequate flow
- Measure static pressure at highest point (min. 1 kg/cm²)
- Check operation of pressure reducing valves if installed
- Cross-connection test:
- Verify no cross-connections between potable and non-potable systems
- Check backflow prevention devices
As per IS:1742, drainage systems must be tested before being put into service:
- Water test:
- Seal all openings below the test section
- Fill piping with water to highest point
- Maintain water level for 15 minutes
- Check for leaks and water level drop
- Test passes if no visible leakage occurs
- Air test:
- Seal all openings in test section
- Apply air pressure of 38mm water gauge
- Maintain pressure for 3 minutes
- Test passes if pressure drop is less than 13mm
- Smoke test:
- Fill system with dense smoke
- Apply pressure of 25mm water gauge
- Inspect all joints for smoke leakage
- Test passes if no smoke is visible at any point
- Ball test:
- Pass smooth ball (12mm smaller than pipe diameter) through lines
- Ball should pass freely through entire length
- Test confirms no obstructions or sagging
- Test each fixture individually for proper operation
- Check flow rates at each outlet
- Verify proper drainage without gurgling or slow draining
- Test WC flush systems (full and half flush if dual)
- Check trap seals remain intact after fixture use
- Verify hot water delivery time and temperature
- Test automatic fixtures if installed (sensors, timers)
- Flush entire water supply system to remove debris
- Clean all aerators and shower heads after flushing
- Adjust balancing valves for proper distribution
- Set hot water temperature (max 60°C at storage, 55°C at outlets)
- Balance circulation pumps if installed
- Label all valves and create valve chart
- Provide maintenance instructions to owner/operator
- Document all test results and system parameters
- Obtain final approval from consultant/inspector
Documentation Requirement: All testing and commissioning activities must be properly documented with test reports, photographs, and witness signatures as per project requirements.
| Component |
Maintenance Task |
Frequency |
| Water Storage Tanks |
Clean and disinfect |
6 months |
| Water Filters |
Clean/replace filter elements |
3 months or as per manufacturer |
| Valves |
Operate all valves to prevent seizure |
6 months |
| Floor Traps/Drains |
Clean and check water seal |
3 months |
| Fixture Aerators |
Clean to remove scale buildup |
3 months |
| Drainage Lines |
Inspect manholes and clean lines |
12 months |
| Rainwater System |
Clean gutters and downspouts |
Before monsoon season |
| Water Heaters |
Flush to remove sediment |
6 months |
| Pressure Reducing Valves |
Check settings and operation |
12 months |
| Backflow Preventers |
Inspect and test operation |
12 months |
| Problem |
Possible Causes |
Troubleshooting Steps |
| Low Water Pressure |
Partially closed valve, blockage, leaks, scale buildup |
Check main valve, inspect for leaks, clean aerators/shower heads, check PRV settings |
| Slow Draining Fixture |
Partial blockage, venting issues, improper grade |
Use plunger/auger to clear, check vent pipe, verify proper slope |
| Running Toilet |
Faulty flapper, fill valve problem, water level too high |
Adjust/replace flapper, adjust/replace fill valve, adjust water level |
| Dripping Faucet |
Worn washer/cartridge, loose parts, high pressure |
Replace washer/cartridge, tighten connections, check pressure |
| Water Hammer |
Loose pipes, high pressure, lack of air chambers |
Secure pipes, install pressure reducer, install water hammer arrestors |
| Foul Odors |
Dry trap, broken seal, blocked vent |
Add water to traps, replace wax seal, clear vent obstruction |
| Water Heater Issues |
Sediment buildup, thermostat failure, element failure |
Flush tank, check/replace thermostat, check/replace element |
- Water leak containment:
- Locate and close nearest isolation valve
- Use main shutoff if necessary
- Apply temporary fixes (pipe clamps, repair tape)
- Drain affected section
- Clearing major blockages:
- Identify nearest cleanout point
- Use drain machine or high-pressure water jetter
- For severe cases, expose and replace section
- Fixture replacement:
- Isolate water supply
- Disconnect and remove damaged fixture
- Install temporary caps if replacement not immediate
Safety First: Before conducting any plumbing repairs, ensure power is turned off to electric water heaters and pumps. Water and electricity create dangerous conditions. Always use appropriate PPE including gloves and eye protection.
Systematic quality checks at each stage ensure compliance with specifications and standards.
- Material Inspection:
- Verify correct specifications (type, size, pressure rating)
- Check for ISI mark and manufacturing date
- Inspect for damage or defects
- Confirm test certificates are available
- Installation Checks:
- Verify alignment and gradient
- Check support spacing and secure fixing
- Confirm proper jointing technique used
- Inspect pipe protection (sleeves at penetrations)
- Verify expansion provisions
- Testing Verification:
- Confirm all required tests completed
- Verify test pressures and durations
- Ensure proper documentation of results
- Check witness signatures
- Final Inspection:
- Verify all fixtures installed correctly
- Check flow rates and drainage performance
- Confirm labeling of valves and systems
- Verify access for maintenance
- Check completion of all punch list items
- Shop drawings: Detailed layouts showing exact installation plan
- Material submittals: Product data and approval documents
- Material test certificates: From manufacturers
- Inspection reports: At each stage of installation
- Test reports: For pressure, leakage, and other tests
- As-built drawings: Showing actual installation details
- Valve charts: Locations and functions of all valves
- Operation & maintenance manuals: For fixtures and equipment
- Warranty certificates: For fixtures and components
- Commissioning reports: Final system performance data
- Photographs: At critical stages of installation
Effective on-job training is crucial for developing skilled plumbing professionals and ensuring high-quality workmanship.
- Supervisor's Role:
- Provide clear instructions and demonstrate correct procedures.
- Offer immediate, constructive feedback on performance.
- Ensure trainees use correct tools and safety equipment.
- Monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Trainee Responsibilities:
- Actively listen and ask clarifying questions.
- Practice techniques under supervision.
- Document learnings, observations, and challenges.
- Report any unsafe conditions or difficulties encountered.
- Practical Skill Development:
- Hands-on practice with pipe cutting, joining, and fixture installation.
- Training on reading plumbing drawings and material lists.
- Simulated troubleshooting scenarios for common issues.
- Experience with testing procedures (pressure, drainage).
- Assessment & Evaluation:
- Regular practical assessments of installed components.
- Observation of adherence to safety protocols and IS codes.
- Knowledge checks on material properties and joining methods.
- Feedback sessions to discuss strengths and areas for growth.
- Safety Integration:
- Emphasize "Safety First" in all practical demonstrations.
- Train on proper use of PPE for each task.
- Educate on identifying and mitigating plumbing-specific hazards.
- Complete all punch list items
- Arrange final inspection with authorities
- Obtain completion certificate
- Compile handover documentation package
- Conduct walkthrough and demonstration with client
- Provide training for maintenance personnel
- Transfer warranties and guarantees
- Document any outstanding issues with timeline for resolution
- Obtain formal acceptance signature
Documentation Best Practice: Organize all documentation in both physical and digital formats. Digital formats should be searchable and include an index for easy reference during future maintenance and renovations.
| Hazard |
Risks |
Safety Precautions |
| Trench/Excavation Work |
Cave-ins, falls, struck by objects |
Proper shoring, benching, barricades, never work alone in trenches |
| Chemical Exposure |
Skin/eye irritation, respiratory issues |
Proper ventilation, PPE (gloves, goggles), MSDS review |
| Electrical Hazards |
Shock, electrocution when water present |
Use GFCI protection, inspect tools, avoid water near electricity |
| Biological Hazards |
Disease from sewage exposure |
Proper PPE, immediate washing if exposed, vaccinations |
| Burns |
From soldering, hot pipes, steam |
Heat-resistant gloves, proper cooling time, awareness of hot surfaces |
| Cuts/Punctures |
From sharp tools, pipe ends, sheet metal |
Cut-resistant gloves, proper tool use, deburring pipe ends |
| Falls |
From ladders, wet surfaces |
Proper ladder use, non-slip footwear, clean work area |
| Confined Spaces |
Oxygen deficiency, toxic gases |
Proper ventilation, gas detection, standby person, retrieval equipment |
- Head protection: Hard hat when risk of falling objects exists
- Eye protection: Safety glasses/goggles for cutting, grinding, chemical handling
- Hand protection: Task-appropriate gloves (cut-resistant, chemical-resistant, heat-resistant)
- Foot protection: Steel-toed waterproof boots with slip-resistant soles
- Respiratory protection: Dust masks or respirators for hazardous atmospheres
- Hearing protection: Earplugs/earmuffs when using noisy equipment
- Fall protection: Harness and lanyard when working at heights
- Skin protection: Long sleeves and pants to protect from cuts and chemicals
- Chemical exposure: Flush with water for 15 minutes, seek medical attention
- Cuts/punctures: Clean wound, apply pressure, seek medical attention if deep
- Burns: Cool with cold water, do not use ice, cover with clean dressing
- Electric shock: Cut power before approaching victim, call emergency services
- Confined space rescue: Never enter without proper equipment, call for help
- Sewage exposure: Wash thoroughly with soap and water, report incident
- Water contamination: Isolate system, notify authorities, follow protocols
Safety First: No plumbing task is so urgent that it cannot be done safely. Always prioritize safety over speed. If conditions are unsafe, stop work and address the hazard before continuing.
Plumbing and sanitary work requires a combination of technical knowledge, practical skills, and attention to detail. By following the standards and procedures outlined in this training module, you can ensure installations that are safe, functional, and compliant with regulations.
Remember that plumbing systems directly impact health and safety of building occupants. Quality workmanship in plumbing is not just about aesthetics but about creating systems that protect public health, conserve water, and provide comfort and convenience for years to come.
Stay updated with changing codes and technologies, and always prioritize safety in all plumbing installations and repairs.
Key Takeaway: Quality plumbing ensures health, safety, and longevity of a building's essential services. Invest in proper training and execution.