The Importance of Plumbing

Moving Society Forward

Community’s Water Source Humans require potable water to

survive More people in a community

requires more clean water for drinking, cooking and bathing

Waste water must not contaminate the potable water

Photo courtesy of UNICEF

Water – A Precious Commodity

70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water

Only 2.5% is Fresh Water

Only 0.77% is easily available as Potable Water

Source: UTEP

Plumbing Systems The advent of plumbing systems allowed

people to live together in larger communities as fresh water could easily come in and waste water was removed.

Little consideration was given to the community downstream

Water pipe made from lead in Pompeii ruins

More People = More Human Waste

Outhouses or Privies used to be the norm

Improvements in plumbing allowed for many waterborne diseases to be controlled by removing the contaminated water from the potable water

Modern Plumbing

Indoor Plumbing Systems Bring clean water

Modern Plumbing

Indoor Plumbing Systems Bring clean water Carry away waste water

and clean it before it is returned to the environment

Historical Plumbing Innovations

Historical Plumbing Innovations

Graphic courtesy of American Standard Brands

Increased Life Expectancy Reduced infant mortality Adults live longer Better sanitation creates better

hygiene, which allows children to remain healthier and attend schools regularly

Many gains from the Industrial Revolution of the 1800’s can be attributed to a healthier population

Increased Life Expectancy

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

1700 1800 1850 1900 1950 2000

Source: US Center for Disease Control

Age

Natural Disasters Show Importance of Plumbers

Infrastructure Big Underground Fresh Water Pipes Waste Treatment Facilities Salt Water Contamination of Fresh Water

In Home/Schools/Businesses Broken Water Pipes Broken Gas Lines Broken Sewer Lines

There are many different types of Plumbers

Highly skilled trades people Contractors install pipes and fixtures Engineers design the projects to

ensure correct water pressure and volume flow

Inspectors make sure it is done correctly

World’s Most Famous Plumber

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World Plumbing Day

Plumbing Benefits Everyone

March 11, Every Year, Everywhere