Last Updated on November 28, 2025
Industrial facilities require several plumbing systems including potable water distribution, process piping, industrial drainage, backflow prevention, grease or oil interceptors, sump and ejector pumps, and safety fixtures such as emergency eyewash and shower stations. Requirements vary based on the Ontario Building Code and local municipal bylaws.Why Industrial Plumbing Systems Are Different
Industrial buildings support manufacturing, processing, and heavy equipment use. These environments require specialized plumbing designed for higher flow, chemical exposure, and strict safety standards.
(Reference: Ontario Building Code Part 7 Plumbing and Ontario Ministry of Labour Safety Guidelines)
1. Potable Water Distribution System
Supplies clean water for:
- Handwashing stations
- Washrooms
- Break rooms
- Safety stations
Must meet Canadian drinking water standards.
2. Process Piping
Used to carry chemicals, coolants, steam, or industrial fluids.
Materials include:
- Stainless steel
- PVC
- CPVC
- HDPE
Process piping is regulated differently from domestic plumbing due to chemical exposure and pressure requirements.
3. Industrial Drainage System
Handles wastewater from floors, machinery, washdown areas, and production zones.
Key components include:
- Trench drains
- Point drains
- Chemical resistant drains
- Oil and grit separators
Drainage must meet municipal discharge standards.
4. Backflow Prevention System
Required in all Ontario industrial facilities to protect the municipal water supply.
Includes:
- RP devices
- DCVA assemblies
- Air gaps
Annual testing is mandatory in most municipalities.
5. Interceptors and Separators
Facilities must treat contaminants before wastewater enters municipal systems.
Common interceptors:
- Grease traps
- Oil and grit separators
- Sediment tanks
These prevent environmental contamination and fines.
6. Sump and Ejector Pump Systems
Used in basements, loading docks, chemical storage rooms, and underground areas.
They remove water or wastewater that cannot flow by gravity.
7. Compressed Air and Vacuum Lines
While not classified as plumbing under OBC, these systems are often installed by industrial plumbing contractors.
They support:
- Machinery
- Automation
- Material handling systems
8. Safety Fixtures
Industrial facilities require plumbing connected safety systems including:
- Emergency eyewash stations
- Emergency showers
- Temperature controlled mixing valves
- Drainage for testing and flushing events
These are mandatory under Ontario workplace safety regulations.Final Note
Industrial plumbing systems must meet the OBC, municipal sewer bylaws, and occupational safety rules.
👉 Select Plumbing and Heating installs, upgrades, and maintains complete industrial plumbing systems across Ontario.
Q1: What is the difference between industrial and commercial plumbing systems?
Industrial systems handle chemicals, processing fluids, and high capacity equipment, which require specialized materials and design.
Q2: Do industrial buildings require backflow prevention?
Yes. Every industrial facility in Ontario must install approved backflow devices to protect drinking water.
Q3: Are grease traps required in industrial buildings?
They are required in facilities producing food waste or oily wastewater.
Q4: What safety plumbing fixtures are mandatory in industrial facilities?
Emergency eyewash, showers, mixing valves, and proper drainage are required under workplace safety laws.
