Zurn Industries Celebrates World Plumbing Day
Announces early compliance with impending federal low-lead standards
On March 11, as members of plumbing organizations across the world join together to recognize World Plumbing Day and to promote the vital role the plumbing industry plays in protecting public health and safety, Zurn Industries, LCC announces that its entire line of products will be available "lead-free" by the close of 2012.
Inspired by their relationship with NSF International (NSF) and their dedication to offer the highest-quality and safest products available, Zurn products will comply with NSF low-lead Standard 61: Drinking Water System Components – Health Effects, Annex G requirements more than a year in advance of the deadline mandated by the "Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act."
"Zurn focused resources early to create product solutions and we are pleased to announce we will be in compliance ahead of schedule," says David Scelsi, Director of Product Management & Engineering, Zurn Commercial Brass Operation.
The Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act (S. 3874) requires that any valve, fitting or fixture coming in contact with potable water must meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61-G requirements, having weighted average of less than 0.25 percent lead content. The law will take nationwide effect on January 4, 2014, but states like California and Vermont have already begun enforcing it. Other states may soon follow. With their early compliance, Zurn becomes the leader in lead-free applications and global awareness of lead-related health issues.
"We've been working toward this goal since the Act was passed into law and World Plumbing Day presents the perfect opportunity to celebrate this commitment," says Rick Fields, Senior Director of Marketing and Product Development, Zurn Wilkins. "By making the change early, we hope to set an example and encourage fellow manufacturers, engineers, contractors, building owners and water purveyors to do the same in the interest of a healthier tomorrow."
Children and senior citizens are particularly at risk when exposed to lead in drinking water. Lead contamination can lead to damage in the brain and nervous system, behavioral and learning problems, slowed growth, reproductive problems, high blood pressure and more. Through studies conducted by the Center for Disease Control and the PEW Center on the States, Congress discovered that by reducing lead in the nation's drinking water systems, the U.S. could save an estimated $10.8 - $53.1M in health care costs annually.
"Zurn Industries' commitment to comply with NSF Annex G's lead content requirements in advance of the 2012 deadline reinforces to their customers that protecting public health is a #1 priority," said Nasrin Kashefi, General Manager of NSF International's Plumbing Programs. Products that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 61-G requirements appear on NSF International's website and bear the NSF Annex G Mark.
Zurn Industries has a standing reputation of producing products that are in full compliance with Federal and State low-lead standards. In September 2009, Zurn became the first manufacturer in the industry to provide lead-free, fully approved backflow prevention assemblies and parts to the market.
Established by the World Plumbing Council (WPC), World Plumbing Day is dedicated to helping the general public better understand and appreciate the extent to which the plumbing industry's compliance with evolving State and Federal regulations can help to improve the quality of potable water and lives of those who drink it. Zurn is proud to carry out this message through this announcement. For additional information on World Plumbing Day, visit www.worldplumbingday.org.
For additional information on Zurn's lead-free and low-lead products and certifications, or to learn more about the steps taken to comply with the impending law, contact Rachael at Rachael.Wiley-Steffen@zurn.com, Director of Brand Marketing. To learn more about NSF, visit www.nsf.org.
About Zurn Industries
Zurn Industries, LLC is a recognized leader in commercial, municipal, and industrial markets. Zurn manufactures the largest breadth of engineered water solutions in the industry, including a wide spectrum of sustainable plumbing products. Zurn delivers total building solutions for new construction and retrofit applications that enhance any building's environment. For more information, visit www.zurn.com.
SOURCE: Zurn Industries