COURSE MODULES in
CE0225: Engineering Utilities 2
Introduction to Plumbing Systems
MODULE 1
Prepared by:
Engr. Denver John M. Colorado
DEFINITION OF PLUMBING
Plumbing is the system of pipes, fixtures, fittings, and devices installed in a
building for the distribution of potable (clean) water, the removal of wastewater
and sewage, and, in some cases, the conveyance of gas.
It is designed to ensure safe, efficient, and sanitary water supply and drainage for
residential, commercial, and industrial structures, while protecting public health
and complying with building and safety codes.
The word “plumbing” originated from the Latin word “plumbum,” which means
lead.
In ancient times, lead pipes were commonly used for water supply systems,
especially by the Romans, who developed extensive plumbing networks using
lead materials. The Latin term plumbarius referred to a worker who dealt with
lead, which later evolved into the word “plumber.”
Over time, the term plumbing came to describe the entire system of pipes,
fixtures, and fittings used for water distribution and waste disposal, even though
modern plumbing no longer uses lead due to health concerns.
HISTORY AND IMPORTANCE OF PLUMBING
History of Plumbing Practice
The birth of the plumbing profession in the Philippines is traced back to the 17 th
century. The Walled City known as Intramuros was established by the Spaniards
as a model community. The Friar Engineers who built the government buildings,
residential and other structures, incorporated European standards in their
plumbing installation.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Filipino plumbers were assigned the task
of maintaining, repairing and/or remodeling plumbing systems in all “pueblos” or
towns including churches, convents, and government buildings.
The recognized plumbers then were called upon by the “ilustrados” or the elite
group to act as consultants of plumber journeymen on matters pertaining to
plumbing installations in villas and mansions.
Plumbing took a great leap at the turn of the 20th century with the arrival of the
American soldiers, engineers, Thomasite teachers, doctors and evangelists.
Health and hygiene became priority when epidemics including cholera, leprosy,
schistosomiasis, and other contagious diseases engulfed the Philippines.
Alarmed, Governor General Harrison issued a letter of instruction on proper
waste disposal in all municipalities.
Sometime in 1902, the Plumbing Trade was duly recognized by the government.
The City of Manila was the model community. Master Plumber John F. Hass
became the first Chief of the Division of Plumbing Construction and Inspection.
Through the initiative of the Filipino Master Plumbers, a plumbing code based on
the Plumbing Code of the United States was incorporated into the Building Code
for the City of Manila.
In 1935, Francisco Geronimo, Mariano de Ocampo, Igmidio Suarez, Eusebio Mina,
Jose Rivera, Raymundo Reyes, Sr., Roberto Feliciano, Gregorio Lazaro, Raymundo
Gumapac, John Jones, Trinitario Ortiz, Valentin Casupanan, Catalino Casupanan,
Crispin Francisco, Teodoro Pastor, Cornelio Odvina and Jesus Tanghal Dera
organized the National Master Plumber Association of the Philippines (NAMPAP)
and had it registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Initiated by NAMPAP, the Department of Public Services of the City of Manila was
created by an Art of Congress. City Ordinance 2411, otherwise known as “the
Plumbing Code for the City of Manila” was enacted in consultation with NAMPAP.
The practice of plumbing was eventually placed under the Department of Public
Servies, Manila.
The National Government, through the Bureau of Public Works, and other cities
and municipalities adopted the Plumbing Code of Manila. NAMPAP spearheaded
the enactment of a law regulating the practice of master plumbing in the
Philippines.
In 1954, the Third Congress of the Republic of the Philippines in its Second Sesson,
approved after the third reading House Bill No. 962. This became Republic Act No.
1378. On June 18, 1955, R.A. 1378, otherwise known as the Plumbing Law of the
Philippines was signed by President Ramon Magsaysay.
On January 28, 1959, the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines prepared bt
the NAMPAP was promulgated and approved by Malacañang. NAMPAP also
assisted in the passage of the law creating the National Waterworks and Sewerage
Authority (NAWASA).
In 1966-1969, the Board of Examiners for Master Plumbers and the NAMPAP
prepared a Curriculum for Plumbing Engineering that was approved by the
Department of Education and was first introduced at the Feati University.
On November 28, 1967, the First Amendment to the National Plumbing Code was
approved, which effected the inclusion of “Asbestos – Cement Pipe” as an
approved plumbing material.
Before Martial Law in 1972, Republic Act No. 6541 otherwise known as the
“Building Code of the Philippines” was passed with the “National Plumbing Code
of 1959” as referral code in full text.
In 1996, NAMPAP President Jaime M. Cabase spearheaded the updating of the
Revised National Plumbing Code. Finally, in October 1999, NAMPAP submitted the
Draft Code to the Board of Master Plumbers (BOMP) Chaired by Engr. Fortunato
H. Amosco. After careful review, the Professional Regulation Commission of 1999
which His Excellency, President Joseph Ejercito Estrada approved last December
21, 1999 pursuant to Section 4 of RA. 1378 known as the Plumbing Law.
In order to continuously upgrade the technical expertise of Master Plumbers and
propagate the growth of the plumbing industry, NAMPAP have caused the holding
of regular National Convention as well as Regional Conference such as Luzon,
Visayas, and Mindanao, as well as the Midyear Forum were manufacturers,
dealers and suppliers of plumbing tools, equipment, materials and services are
given the opportunity to conduct product presentations for the benefit f the
plumbing practitioners.
Importance of Plumbing in the Philippines
Plumbing plays a vital role in public health and safety by providing clean
drinking water and safely removing waste, which helps prevent the spread of
diseases. It supports sanitation and hygiene, allowing proper handwashing,
bathing, and food preparation in homes and workplaces.
In addition, plumbing contributes to comfort and convenience in daily life by
enabling reliable water access and efficient drainage. It is also essential for fire
protection systems, such as sprinklers and hydrants. In modern society,
plumbing supports economic development, urbanization, and environmental
protection through efficient water management and conservation.
Overall, plumbing is a fundamental engineering system that ensures healthy living
conditions, improves quality of life, and supports sustainable community
development.
TYPES OF PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Plumbing systems are generally classified based on their function in
supplying water, removing waste, and supporting building operations. The
main types of plumbing systems are as follows:
1. Water Supply System
The water supply system provides clean and potable water to all
plumbing fixtures and equipment in a building. It includes service pipes,
distribution pipes, pumps, valves, and storage tanks. Water is delivered
under pressure from a public water utility or a private source such as a deep
well.
This system must be designed to ensure adequate pressure and
continuous flow to all fixtures, even during peak demand. Proper
materials and layout are essential to prevent leakage, contamination, and
pressure loss. In the Philippines, water supply systems must comply with
the Revised National Plumbing Code of the Philippines (RNPCP) to
protect public health.
2. Sanitary Drainage System
The sanitary drainage system removes wastewater and sewage from
plumbing fixtures such as toilets, lavatories, sinks, and floor drains. It
operates mainly by gravity, conveying waste through soil pipes, waste
pipes, traps, vents, and building sewers to a septic tank or public sewer line.
This system is critical for maintaining sanitation and hygiene. Proper trap
seals and venting prevent foul odors and harmful gases from entering
occupied spaces. A well-designed sanitary system minimizes clogging,
backflow, and health risks.
3. Storm Drainage System
The storm drainage system manages and disposes of rainwater from
roofs, gutters, downspouts, and paved areas. Its purpose is to prevent
flooding, roof damage, and water infiltration that could weaken building
foundations.
In areas like the Philippines that experience heavy rainfall and typhoons,
an efficient storm drainage system is essential. It helps control surface
runoff, reduce erosion, and protect both structures and surrounding
properties.