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Home » Authors » Ron George

Articles by Ron George

PE0826_lawn sprinkler.jpg
Code Classroom

The History of Backflow Prevention and Plumbing Codes, Part 2

Proper installation and maintenance are critical, especially for hose valves, atmospheric vacuum breakers and lawn sprinkler systems, because incorrect placement or continuous pressure can allow contaminants to enter the potable water supply.
August 3, 2026
Ron George

In last month’s column, we covered a brief history of backflow prevention in the United States and how the plumbing industry responded over time, developing backflow devices and standards for adoption in plumbing codes. 


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PE0726_backflow shut-off valve.jpg
Code Classroom

The History of Backflow Prevention and Plumbing Codes, Part 1

Major events — especially the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair amoebic dysentery outbreak — led to better research, plumbing codes and the development of testable backflow prevention devices.
July 1, 2026
Ron George

The history of backflow prevention is a story of public health incidents over the years, in which health officials and members of the plumbing industry learned the dangers and health hazards associated with cross-connections after investigating backflow incidents that sickened and killed many people. 


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PE0626_hot water distribution piping.jpg
Code Classroom

DHW Temperature Control: Designing for Scald Protection and Legionella Risk

Other recommendations include proper mixing valves, adequate disinfectant residuals and flushing/cleaning maintenance to manage biofilm and stagnation.
June 1, 2026
Ron George

Designing a safe domestic hot water system requires balancing the need for high distribution temperatures to prevent Legionella growth with code-compliant temperature controls to eliminate the risk of scalding at the fixture.


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PE0526_plumbing accessories and spare parts.jpg
Code Classroom

The Common Code Format for the Model Plumbing Codes

Understanding the differences between the IPC and UPC is critical for engineers, contractors and code officials to ensure safe, compliant installations.
May 4, 2026
Ron George

Discover the history and key structural differences between the IPC and UPC to ensure your plumbing installations remain safe and code-compliant.


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PE0326_PVC water pipe inspection.jpg
Code Classroom

The Difference Between Building Codes and Industry Standards

Codes set minimum requirements; standards are developed through consensus by various organizations. Both play distinct but interconnected roles in the construction industry.
March 2, 2026
Ron George

Explore the distinct but interconnected roles of building codes and industry standards, and learn how they combine to ensure safety, quality, and legal compliance in construction.


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PE0226_building inspection.jpg
Code Classroom

The History of U.S. Model Code Development

Multiple organizations still publish separate plumbing and mechanical codes and standards, resulting in ongoing complexity for design professionals and code officials.
February 2, 2026
Ron George
Columnist Ron George traces the evolution of U.S. model building codes from their regional roots to the current push for industry-wide harmonization as the 2027 editions near completion.
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PE0126_codecolumn_Oct 16, dat 15, part 2.jpg
Code Classroom

Rotary’s Global Impact: Plumbing Solutions for Health and Sustainability, Part 2

Through initiatives like Sewing Seeds of Hope and partnerships with programs such as Days for Girls, the international group helps young women stay in school and gain skills for self-sufficiency.
January 5, 2026
Ron George

From building schools to empowering women and improving health care, Rotary International’s Ghana mission highlights sustainable education, economic development, and life-changing support for children and families.


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PE1225_codecolumn_Oct 16, Day 15, part 4.jpg
Code Classroom

Rotary’s Global Impact: Plumbing Solutions for Health and Sustainability, Part 1

A detailed account of my latest Rotary mission trip to Ghana and the water projects our group worked on.
December 1, 2025
Ron George

Discover how Rotary volunteers are transforming remote Ghanaian communities through clean water, sanitation, and life-saving health initiatives — one well, one village, and one mission at a time.


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1125_Plumbing technician works with water pump.jpg
Code Classroom

Emergency Response to Legionella Bacteria Suspected or Confirmed in a Building Water System, Part 3

Here are the steps for performing the emergency flushing and disinfection in a contaminated building water system.
November 3, 2025
Ron George

Learn the critical steps for safely flushing, disinfecting, and documenting building water systems when Legionella bacteria are suspected or confirmed.


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PE1025_faucet filling bathtub.jpg
Code Classroom

Emergency Flushing and Disinfection for Legionella, Part 2

Building owners, operators or water management teams can use a checklist to develop a customized emergency flushing and disinfecting protocol or use it as part of a water management plan.
October 1, 2025
Ron George

With Legionnaires' disease outbreaks on the rise across the U.S., building owners must act fast—this article outlines critical emergency flushing and disinfection steps to stop Legionella bacteria before it spreads.


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