SafetyQuestion 346 of 360
A plumber is sweating copper joints on a potable water line. To protect public health, what kind of solder must be used on drinking-water piping in California?
a.Lead-free solder meeting the state 'lead-free' standard
b.50/50 tin-lead solder for a stronger joint
c.Any solder, since heat burns off the lead
d.Acid-core electrical solder
Explanation
California's Health and Safety Code (following the federal Safe Drinking Water Act) prohibits lead-based solder on potable water systems and requires 'lead-free' solder and flux; the old 50/50 tin-lead solder is banned for drinking water. Lead leaches into water and causes serious health harm, especially to children. Plumbers must use lead-free solder (such as tin-antimony or tin-silver) on all potable connections.
Law Reference: California Health and Safety Code §116875Practice all 360 questions free — no signup required.
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