Master Plumber Practice Exam

Water service pipes should not be run or laid in the same trench with asbestos cement building sewer piping primarily due to the potential health hazards associated with asbestos. Asbestos, when disturbed, can release fibers into the air, which are harmful when inhaled. As such, there are strict regulations that govern the installation and handling of asbestos-containing materials. Keeping water service pipes separate from these materials minimizes the risk of contamination.

In addition, separation helps maintain the integrity of the water supply by reducing the potential for cross-contamination from the sewer systems with which the asbestos cement may be associated. This practice aligns with plumbing codes and health standards aimed at ensuring potable water safety.

While other options involve various types of piping, they do not have the same level of associated health risks when installed in proximity to water service pipes. For example, lawn sprinkler systems and cast-iron building sewer piping do not carry the same contamination risk as asbestos. Hence, the separation of water service pipes from asbestos cement piping is a critical practice for ensuring both safety and compliance with plumbing regulations.