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Restroom Terminology Glossary (USA

This glossary covers many common terms used in the restroom industry. It includes terms related to restroom design, fixtures, and maintenance found in the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and other common industry sources.

A

  • ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): A U.S. law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. It includes specific guidelines for accessible design, including restrooms.
  • Air Gap: The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the lowest point of a water supply outlet and the highest point of an overflow rim of the fixture or receptacle served. This prevents backflow.
  • Anti-Siphon: A device or method that prevents backflow by breaking the vacuum in a water supply line.
  • Accessible Design: Design that meets the needs of people with disabilities, often guided by standards like the ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

B

  • Backflow: The undesirable reversal of flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances into the distribution pipes of a potable1 water system.
  • Barrier-Free: A design approach that removes physical barriers to access and use by people with disabilities. Often used interchangeably with accessible.
  • Bidet: A plumbing fixture designed for cleansing the perineal and anal areas after using the toilet.
  • Building Code: Local or national regulations that govern the design, construction, and alteration of buildings, including plumbing systems.

C

  • Cleanout: An access opening in a drainage system to allow for cleaning and rodding out obstructions.
  • Combination Fixture: A single unit combining two or more fixtures, such as a shower/bath combination.
  • Conservation Fixture: Fixtures designed to use less water than traditional fixtures, such as low-flow toilets and faucets.

D

  • Drain: A pipe or opening that carries wastewater away from a fixture or building.
  • DWV (Drain, Waste, and Vent): The system of pipes that removes wastewater and sewage from a building and vents gases to the outside.

F

  • Fixture: A plumbing fitting that conveys water or wastewater, such as a toilet, sink, or shower.
  • Flush Valve: A valve that releases a large volume of water quickly to flush a toilet or urinal.

G

  • Grease Interceptor: A plumbing device designed to trap fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before they enter the sewer system.

H

  • Hand Dryer: An electric device used to dry hands after washing.

I

  • Interceptor: A device designed to trap and retain specific substances from wastewater, such as grease, sand, or oil.

L

  • Lavatory: A sink, especially in a bathroom or restroom.
  • Low-Flow: Refers to fixtures that use less water than standard fixtures.

P

  • Plumbing Code: Regulations governing the installation and maintenance of plumbing systems. Examples include the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and the International Plumbing Code (IPC).
  • Potable Water: Water that is safe for drinking.
  • Pressure Relief Valve: A valve that automatically releases excess pressure in a plumbing system.

S

  • Sanitary Sewer: A system of pipes that carries wastewater from buildings to a treatment plant.
  • Sensor Faucet: A faucet that turns on and off automatically when a user’s hands are placed near it.
  • Shower Compartment: A separate enclosure for showering.
  • Sink: A basin used for washing.
  • Soap Dispenser: A device that dispenses soap for handwashing.
  • Sustainability: Design and practices that minimize environmental impact, including water conservation and the use of eco-friendly materials.

T

  • Toilet (WC – Water Closet): A fixture used for the disposal of human waste.
  • Trap: A U-shaped pipe section designed to hold water and prevent sewer gases from entering a building.

U

  • Urinal: A fixture designed for the disposal of urine.
  • UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code): A widely used model plumbing code in the United States.

V

  • Vent: A pipe that allows air to enter the drainage system, preventing vacuums and ensuring proper flow.

W

  • Waste Water: Water that has been used and contains impurities.
  • Water Closet (WC): Another term for toilet.
  • Water Supply: The system of pipes that brings potable water into a building.