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Promoting the best tradesperson doesn’t automatically create a strong foreman. In this episode, I break down a practical, field-tested approach to foreman development, focused on leadership, planning, safety, and accountability. I also explain how foreman training can be evaluated in ways that actually matter on the jobsite, not just on paper.

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In the late 1800s, Ashland, Wisconsin drew its drinking water from Lake Superior, the same bay that received the city’s untreated sewage. With no filtration, no wastewater treatment, and no plumbing standards, typhoid fever repeatedly swept through the community.

After the death of Lars Green in 1897, his widow sued the water company and won — only to have the verdict overturned in 1898 by the Wisconsin Supreme Court in Green v. Ashland Water Co., ruling the danger of the water was a “known risk.”

Trapped with unsafe water and no legal remedy, Ashland’s disaster helped ignite the public health movement that would soon change plumbing forever.

Released near the anniversary of the Ashland ruling, this episode tells the story of Wisconsin before the code, and what it cost to build the protections plumbers defend today.

References

Green v. Ashland Water Co. (1898):

https://case-law.vlex.com/vid/green-v-ashland-water-892207608?utm

Wisconsin Water Law:

https://www3.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/UWEXLakes/Documents/resources/bookstore/Wisconsin%20Water%20Law-Edition2-G3622.pdf?utm

CDC – Typhoid & Waterborne Disease History:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-water-data/waterborne-disease-in-us/index.html

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In this episode of Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing, host Ryan Boggs, Master Plumber and prefab foreman, shares how his team’s innovation in kitting DWV systems has drastically improved efficiency on the company’s largest plumbing project to date. By collaborating across trades, they’ve shortened shower rough-in times and improved workflow — all while emphasizing the importance of continual learning and adaptation in the plumbing trade.

Ryan then breaks down Wisconsin Plumbing Code SPS 384, the section governing plumbing materials and products, explaining why understanding product listings, labeling, and material limitations is critical for compliance, performance, and professional integrity.

From PVC vs. CPVC to lead-free brass and approved transition fittings, Ryan unpacks some of the oddities and gray areas that trip up even experienced installers — and reminds listeners that knowing what’s approved and installed per its listing is the hallmark of a true craftsman.

To close, Ryan teases next week’s episode featuring Aaron Kilburg from NIBCO, who will share insights from the manufacturer’s perspective on product design, testing, and maintaining compliance with evolving plumbing codes.

Whether you’re an apprentice, journeyman, or master plumber, this episode will sharpen your understanding of the materials that keep Wisconsin’s plumbing systems running safely and efficiently.

Key Topics:

• Prefabrication efficiency through DWV kitting and trade collaboration
• The importance of continual learning as a licensed professional
• Wisconsin Plumbing Code SPS 384 – Plumbing Products and Materials
• Material listings, third-party certification, and labeling requirements
• Common compliance issues: PVC vs. CPVC, solvent cements, transition fittings
• The installer’s responsibility for code-compliant material selection
• Teaser: Interview with Aaron Kilburg (NIBCO) – coming next episode

References & Resources:

1. Wisconsin Administrative Code, Chapter SPS 384 – Plumbing Products and Materials.
   Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).
   https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/plumbing/384
   
   
2. ASME, ASTM, ANSI, and NSF Standards referenced in SPS 384.10(2).
   • ASTM D2564 – Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for PVC Plastic Pipe and Fittings
   • ASTM F493 – Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for CPVC Plastic Pipe and Fittings
   • NSF/ANSI 61 – Drinking Water System Components – Health Effects
   • NSF/ANSI 372 – Lead Content Reduction Standard
3. Wisconsin DSPS Plumbing Products Search Portal – to verify product approval and listing status.
   https://esla.wi.gov/apex/DSPS_ProductSearch
   
   
4. Federal Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act (2014 Amendment to SDWA).
   U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
   https://www.epa.gov/dwstandardsregulations/lead-free-pipes-fittings-fixtures-solder-and-flux
   
   
5. ASSE 1061 – Performance Requirements for Push-Fit Fittings.
   American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE).
   https://www.asse-plumbing.org/standards/product/1061
   
   

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This episode breaks down Wisconsin’s new requirement for UL 1738-listed plastic venting systems on gas-fired appliances in commercial buildings. We cover how we got here, what UL 1738 actually is, how DSPS is interpreting “repairs” vs “new systems,” and what this change means in the field.

This episode is based on:

• My continuing-education class on fuel-gas venting
• Direct correspondence with DSPS and inspectors
• Review of the Wisconsin Administrative Code and DSPS guidance
• Industry technical documentation

📘 Wisconsin Code & DSPS References

SPS 365.0501(4) – UL 1738 Requirement
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/administrativecode/SPS%20365.0501

DSPS UL 1738 Slide Deck (Commercial Buildings)
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/CommercialBuildings/2021UL1738.pdf

DSPS HVAC / Code Adoption Info
https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/HVAC/Default.aspx

🔥 Fuel Gas / Venting Standards

UL 1738 Standard Overview
https://www.ul.com/news/ul-1738-and-ulc-s636-venting-systems-and-fuel-gas-codes

Venting Reinvented – ICC Article on UL 1738
https://www.iccsafe.org/wp-content/uploads/Venting.-Reinvented-UL-1738-Fuel-Gas-Venting-Systems.pdf

System 1738 Technical Whitepaper (IPEX)
https://ipexna.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/whitepaper-usen-ipex-system-1738.pdf

⚠️ Safety / Failure Case Studies

PVC Flue Pipe Failure – Case Study (PHCPPros)
https://www.phcppros.com/articles/1912-pvc-flue-pipe-failure

Polypropylene Venting Failures Whitepaper
https://duravent.com/literature/L277_WhitePaper_PolyPro.pdf

CPSC CO Incident Investigation Summary
https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/Updated_IDI_review_CO_and_modern_furnaces_and_boilers.pdf

(Anecdotal) Aspen CO Fatality Claim
https://www.chimneysavers.com/dangers-of-pvc-vent.html

UL 1738 applicability decision-tree diagram 

📫 Contact

Questions? Jobsite examples? Submittal pushback?

Comment on YouTube, message through the podcast platform, or email:
 📧 [email protected]

Thanks for listening to Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing. Stay safe, read the book, and I’ll see you in the next episode.

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This episode of Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing opens with an important reminder about mental health, especially during the seasonal shift when the time change, darker days, and winter workload can amplify stress. Ryan emphasizes that plumbing is ultimately about people, encouraging listeners to reach out if they are struggling and offering himself as a non-judgmental contact. Listeners can connect with him on his YouTube channel, through the podcast platform, or by emailing [email protected]. 

The episode also includes a reminder that the national 988 Crisis Hotline is available for anyone needing immediate support.

The main discussion focuses on one of the most misunderstood concepts in the trade: the belief that plumbers must memorize the Wisconsin Plumbing Code. Ryan explains that true mastery comes not from memorizing SPS 381–384, but from knowing how to navigate it, where to find tables, how to cite sections, and how to verify answers with evidence. He illustrates this with a real field scenario involving the proper discharge location for a pool drain. Instead of guessing, he referenced SPS 382.38 Table 1, which clearly outlines approved discharge points. By providing code-backed answers, he reinforced accuracy, eliminated interpretation, and built confidence with both the project team and apprentices observing the process.

Ryan discusses why referencing the code is a form of leadership: it teaches apprentices where answers truly originate, sets a standard of humility and professionalism, and ensures consistency across job sites. Mastery in plumbing, he notes, comes from understanding how the code is organized and being able to locate information quickly, not from carrying it all in memory.

The episode concludes with a preview of the next installment, which will explore approved plumbing materials under SPS 384, including common misunderstandings, misapplications, and the exceptions hidden within the tables.

• Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 381–385
• SPS 382.38 Table 1 – Approved Discharge Locations
• SPS 384 – Plumbing Product & Materials Requirements
• Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), Plumbing Program
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text)

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In this bonus episode of Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing, Ryan explains how to properly size sanitary piping using the Wisconsin Plumbing Code (SPS 382.30). We break down fixture unit assignments, pipe definitions, and the correct application of Tables 2 and 3 for stacks, branch intervals, building drains, and sewers.

You’ll learn:

• How to assign Drainage Fixture Units (DFUs) for each fixture
• Key definitions: building drain, sub drain, sewer, stacks, and branch piping
• When to use Table 3 (building drains & sewers) vs. Table 2 (stacks & other piping)
• How to size stacks based on the number of branch intervals
• Tips to avoid exceeding allowable DFU loads on branch intervals

This video is perfect for apprentice plumbers, journeymen, and master plumbers preparing for exams or sharpening their skills in sanitary drainage system design.

📘 Code Reference: Wisconsin Plumbing Code SPS 382.30

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In this episode of Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing, we walk step-by-step through how to interpolate Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFUs) into Gallons Per Minute (GPM) using Table 3 of SPS 382.40 from the Wisconsin Plumbing Code. You’ll learn how to read the columns for flushometer vs. flush tank fixtures, how to handle fractional WSFU values, and how to apply the interpolation formula to get accurate GPM results.

This guide is perfect for plumbing apprentices, journeymen, master plumbers, inspectors, and anyone studying the Wisconsin Plumbing Code. Whether you’re preparing for your plumbing exam, teaching apprentices, or looking to refresh your skills, this lesson makes interpolation simple and practical.

📘 Topics covered:

• What WSFU and GPM mean in plumbing
• How to use SPS 382.40 Table 3
• Step-by-step interpolation example
• Real-world application for flushometer and flush tank fixtures

🔧 Strengthen your code knowledge and bring confidence to every job!

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Sizing sanitary drain pipes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this video, I walk you step-by-step through how to properly size drain piping according to the Wisconsin Plumbing Code (SPS 382). We’ll cover how to read the code tables, apply drainage fixture units (DFUs), and avoid the most common mistakes apprentices and journeymen run into. Whether you’re preparing for your plumbing exam, sharpening your skills in the field, or just trying to get a clearer understanding of code application, this walkthrough will give you the confidence to size drains correctly every time.

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In this episode of Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing, I sit down with Tony to talk about his experiences and insights in the plumbing trade. Tony shares his perspective on training, critical thinking, and the importance of always asking why when it comes to code and installation practices. We discuss how understanding the reasoning behind tasks not only sharpens technical skills but also helps apprentices and journeymen adapt to the complexities of real-world plumbing.

Tony also reflects on the challenges and opportunities within today’s plumbing industry, from staying up to date with evolving codes to encouraging the next generation of plumbers to think beyond simply following instructions. His focus on problem-solving and knowledge-driven work is a reminder that plumbing is more than fittings and pipe—it’s about applying judgment, foresight, and precision in every decision we make.

Building on last week’s look at ADA requirements, this episode sets us up for next week’s deep dive into piping materials and the critical know-how it takes to use them correctly.

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This episode explains how the Wisconsin Plumbing Code (SPS 384.20) ensures fixtures are safe, sanitary, and functional, while the ADA Standards for Accessible Design (U.S. Access Board) add the human-use requirements (clearances, reach ranges, placement) so people with disabilities can use those fixtures independently.

Key Takeaways

Wisconsin Plumbing Code (SPS 384.20)

• Fixtures must be durable, sanitary, easy to clean, and protect potable water from cross-connections.
• Water closets (placement): At least 15″ from centerline to any wall/obstruction, 30″ center-to-center between closets, and 24″ minimum clear space in front. (SPS 384.20(5)(o)4.)
• Urinals: At least 15″ from centerline to side wall and 30″ between urinals. (SPS 384.20(5)(n)2.)
• Showers: Minimum 900 in² interior that can encompass a 30″ diameter circle. (SPS 384.20(5)(L)4.)
• Code = technical performance and basic spacing so fixtures work.

ADA Standards (2010, Chapter 6 – Plumbing Elements & Facilities)

• Water closet centerline: 16–18″ from side wall (accessible stalls).
• Clear floor space at WC: 60″ wide × 56″ deep (wall-hung) or 59″ deep (floor-mounted).
• Seat height: 17–19″ AFF.
• Grab bars: 42″ side wall bar and 36″ rear bar at 33–36″ AFF (specific start/extent requirements).
• TP dispenser: 7–9″ in front of bowl, 15–48″ AFF, not blocked by bars.
• Lavatories: Max rim 34″ AFF, 27″ minimum knee clearance, 30″×48″ clear floor space.
• ADA = installation standards so fixtures are usable for everyone (independence, safety, dignity).

Why we install to ADA

• Dignity & independence: Proper clearances let people use restrooms without assistance.
• Risk & cost: Avoids complaints, litigation, and expensive retrofits later.
• Broader usability: Benefits older adults, people with temporary injuries, and caregivers.
• Team sport: Even when plumbers don’t set grab bars/TP holders, we can flag missing blocking, off dims, and coordination issues so the whole project stays compliant.

References

• U.S. Access Board – ADA Standards, Chapter 6 (Plumbing Elements & Facilities):
  https://www.access-board.gov/ada/chapter-6-plumbing-elements-and-facilities/
  
  
• Wisconsin Administrative Code – SPS 384.20 (Plumbing Fixtures):
  https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/380_387/384/II/20

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