Illinois Plumbing Code Practice

The identification of piping that conveys non-potable water is specifically designated to ensure safety and prevent cross-connections with potable water systems. By using purple colored paint for non-potable water, it provides a universally recognized standard that's in line with various codes, including those set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Water Works Association (AWWA). This color-coding is crucial in industrial and residential settings, where clear visual cues are needed to differentiate between potable and non-potable systems, thereby reducing the risk of accidental contamination. Identifying these systems properly helps in maintaining public health and safety standards. Other colors like green, red, and blue do not serve the same purpose for non-potable water. Green is typically used for sewer systems, while red often indicates fire protection or standpipes, and blue denotes potable water. Thus, using purple paint specifically communicates the non-potable nature of the water in the piping, ensuring clarity and compliance with plumbing codes.