Scary descriptions of “monster fatbergs” that have blocked sewer water in Baltimore and the U.K. make for effective newswriting. But clogged-artery metaphors and gross-out tactics aside, fat, oil and grease (FOG) do pose an expensive threat to sanitary sewer collection systems.

Unintended consequences, that close cousin of mislaid plans, can claim some responsibility for a current conundrum: low-flow fixtures paired with existing oversized piping helped create the growing crisis of legionella bacteria.

Legionnaires’ disease puts plumbing in the news on a frequent basis — in the worst way.

The ICC held its final code hearing Oct. 21-29 in Richmond, Virginia, for the technical content of the 2021 International Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code and Fuel Gas Code.

Bradley Corp. has redesigned its grab bars by using heavy-duty, third-party-rated products so they can withstand higher load ratings.

Quickly-embraced thermostatic mixing-valve standard has become watered down.

Privacy issues, proper number of fixtures also on the docket at October meeting.

As few insights into our readers’ comments and suggestions.

The IECC covers the design of energy-efficient building envelopes and installation of mechanical, lighting and power systems through requirements emphasizing performance.