Frequently Asked Questions about AB1953

Why is this important to me?
In most cases the cost of the new lead law compliant material is significantly higher than the cost of the material you are purchasing today. You must take this difference into account when estimating your future material costs. In addition, there will be substantial penalties and fines for non compliance with this law. No one wants to be named is a class action lawsuit. You do not want to get in a situation where you have to remove plumbing material you have installed and replace it with lead free material so you can pass inspection. The inspector will not care when you purchased the material only that it does not comply with the law as of January 1st, 2010.
Why is meeting this new standard important?
Products that do not meet the criteria as outlined by AB1953 by January 1, 2010, cannot be sold or installed in the State of California.
When does AB1953 go into effect?
January 1, 2010, but you must start planning for its implementation now.
Who is affected?
All consumers and businesses distributing and installing plumbing products in California.
What products are affected by AB1953?
All devices at the point-of-use that are intended to dispense water for human consumption. According to AB1953:
“No person shall introduce into commerce, for use in California, any pipe, pipe or plumbing fitting, or fixture intended to convey or dispense water for human consumption through drinking water or cooking that is not lead free. This includes kitchen faucets, bathroom faucets, and any other end-use devices intended to convey or dispense water for human consumption through drinking or cooking.”
Examples of the products this bill will cover include kitchen faucets, bar faucets, manual lavatory faucets, supply stops, bubblers, glass fillers and pot fillers.
What products are not affected by AB1953?
Any devices designed for purposes other than dispensing water for human consumption. Examples of faucets not impacted by AB1953 include shower, laundry, service sink and laboratory fittings.
Does the AB1953 requirement or standard vary for residential and commercial applications?
The AB1953 lead content standard does not distinguish between residential and commercial uses. Any installation of a product intended to dispense water for human consumption must meet the lead content standards of this new law.
How is AB1953 different from the existing NSF61, Section 9?
AB1953 does not replace NSF61. AB1953 specifically addresses the lead content used in manufacturing the products, while NSF61 is a performance standard that measures the amount of lead and other metals that may leach into the water at the point-of-use. Chicago Faucets will continue to meet the NSF61, Section 9 requirement on applicable products.

Attention!
Effective August 31^st, 2009 Express Pipe will implement a Special Order Policy on all materials that are ordered for jobs if the materials are not AB1953 compliant.  Materials will be shipped upon receipt.  Contact your Salesperson for more information as it becomes available.