This newsletter is part of a continuous series released bi-monthly by the International Code Council's Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas (PMG) Technical Resources Team. From the latest developments in Code Council initiatives within the PMG space, to industry news spanning the globe, this newsletter will help you stay in the know.
Feedback and editorial suggestions can be sent to Jim Cika, Director, PMG Technical Resources, at jcika@iccsafe.org. For advertising information, please email Matt Sigler, PMG Executive Director, at msigler@iccsafe.org.
The Latest from the PMG Team
The Pipeline with Tom Roberts: Water Reuse Opportunities (Episode 4)
In Episode 4 of The Pipeline, Tom Roberts sits down with Engineer Ammar AlQadi with WSP, an industry advocate for innovative water solutions. We explore the various water sustainability initiatives taking place across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the adoption of low-flow fixtures to the use of alternative water sources like greywater and desalinated water. We also take a closer look at the growing momentum behind water conservation, both within industries and among the general public.
Code Council Strengthens Collaboration with UA at Annual Instructor Training Program
During the event, a new agreement was presented between the Code Council and the United Association (UA), enhancing access to Code Council resources for UA instructors through the Joint Apprentice Training Center programs.
A2Ls and Mixing Refrigerants: Addressing Supply Chain Issues
Manufacturers of the new HVAC systems have done a good job preparing for the transition to A2Ls. However, manufacturers of the R454B refrigerant and the canisters used to transport R454B and R32 refrigerants fell short in preparing for the increased demand for the A2L refrigerants.
Geothermal HVAC Systems: Harnessing the Earth for Sustainable Comfort
Geothermal HVAC systems represent a forward-thinking approach to building climate control. For code officials, inspectors and contractors, understanding the technology, its benefits and the regulatory framework is essential to supporting safe and effective installations.
More than 1,000 lives were lost and nearly 500,000 homes were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, but Louisiana legislators acted promptly to prevent future tragedies by adopting a statewide building code.
ICC Performance Code Now Available for Public Input
In accordance with the Code Council’s Consensus Procedures (ANSI), the initial draft of the ICC Performance Code (ICCPC), is available for public input for a period of 60 days starting Aug. 29, 2025 and ending Oct. 29, 2025.
Single Stack Drainage Systems: A Cost-Effective Solution to Water Recycling Challenges
The single stack system, also known as a primary ventilated stack, is a drainage piping configuration that relies solely on the stack vent for ventilation. This eliminates the need for a parallel vent stack, vents at traps, wet venting, circuit venting or any other venting strategy that requires a separate vent system at each level along the height of the building.
From Service to Skilled Trade: United Association’s Veterans in Piping Program
Over the course of 17 weeks, participants of the program can gain hands-on experience in disciplines such as welding, sprinkler fitting and HVAC-R. The training is offered on military bases, making it accessible for service members before their separation date.
Meet the 2025-26 Board of Directors Candidates: Virtual Candidates Forum
The Code Council will host a Virtual Candidates Forum for this year’s Board of Directors candidates on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, at 12 pm ET. The panel will also feature members of the Code Council’s Nominating Committee, and will be moderated by Stuart Tom, this year’s Nominating Committee Chairman and Immediate Past President for the ICC Board of Directors.
Test your team’s creativity with a new hands-on problem-solving event at the Code Council’s 2025 Annual Conference, Expo and Committee Action Hearings in Cleveland, OH! Each team is supplied with fluid in various colors, an electric pump, flexible tubing, a selection of valves, rigid piping and a range of connectors and tools. Each team is challenged to design and build a working machine that will transport any of the four fluids to any of the 12 spots identified within the construction zone using only a combination of valves to make the colors flow correctly.