PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by George Bassolino, Representative of Master Plumbers Council, on Plastic Water Pipes in ADUs
1:33:15
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160 sec
George Bassolino, representing the Master Plumbers Council, testifies against allowing plastic water pipes in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as proposed in T 2764, citing public safety concerns. He argues for maintaining current approved materials like copper and addressing existing lead pipe issues.
- Emphasizes the need for scientific studies on potential toxic chemical leaching from plastic pipes
- Calls for lead pipe remediation as a prerequisite for ADU program participation
- Expresses concern about circumventing the established code revision process
- Stresses the importance of effective building codes for public health and safety
George Bassolino
1:33:15
Thank you.
1:33:16
Good afternoon.
1:33:17
I'm George Bassilino speaking on behalf of the master plumbers council to raise a major concern regarding t 2764 that would allow the use of plastic water pipe, which poses a direct threat to public safety.
1:33:29
We do support making it possible to create ADUs.
1:33:32
The MPC is a proponent of any legislation that makes it easier to do more work for less cost, providing and maintains public safety.
1:33:39
Our concerns regarding these plastic materials are detailed in our written submission and aligned with the purpose of the building code.
1:33:45
These materials are documented downside, which far outweigh any potential cost savings that may be realized during construction.
1:33:52
There are current scientific and research and studies related to the potential leaching of toxic chemicals into the water system and their associated harmful effects on humans that must be completed prior to consideration of use utilizing these materials.
1:34:06
The 2022 plumbing code has approved materials such as copper that have a long track record and pose no threat to public safety.
1:34:12
At one time, lead was an approved material for water piping.
1:34:15
Today, everyone is aware of how lead is a neurotoxin can cause a variety of disorders from behavioral problems to brain damage.
1:34:23
Despite grants and legislation to remove lead pipes, many potential ADU sites are still currently supplied by lead.
1:34:31
On October 8, the EPA finalized a 10 year plan that will require removal of all lead systems.
1:34:37
10 years is a long time to continue to subject New York City residents to potential perils of lead water pipe.
1:34:43
We employ you to require remediation of this hazard as a prerequisite to participate in this program.
1:34:49
During the testimony on October 16th before this committee, the department had on the code revision process that includes over 650 industry professionals will volunteer their time and expertise to help create the best possible codes for New York City residents.
1:35:03
This legislation circumvents that process.
1:35:06
It also possibly creates a 2 tier code within New York City.
1:35:10
Today, plumbers are not just trades people.
1:35:12
They're technical professionals at the forefront of innovation.
1:35:15
We embrace the future of plumbing methods and materials where every pipe, valve, and water distribution system utilizes advancements in science and technology to this most essential trade.
1:35:26
But first and foremost, we're focused on public safety and environmental effects resulting from plumbing code modifications.
Arthur Klock
1:35:32
Clean water
George Bassolino
1:35:33
is an essential resource and a right for all persons.
1:35:36
Our motto, the plumber protects the health of the nation.
1:35:39
This can only be achieved through the application of effective building codes, which are critical to avoid negative effects and potential hazards such as water contamination and pipe failures resulting from code modifications done without due diligence.
1:35:51
Thank you for the opportunity to be heard reported regarding some point legislation.
1:35:55
Great.
