Lead has a long history in plumbing, dating all the way back to the Roman era when it was used extensively for water pipes and systems. Lead and plumbing were so closely linked, in fact, that the word "plumbing" itself is derived from the Latin word for lead, "plumbum." Over time, lead’s use in construction broadened to a diverse range of uses like paints, alloys, roofing, cable sheathing and even glazing.
The background
Traditionally, lead has been used in small amounts in brass and other alloys used to manufacture plumbing products like taps and valves. But in 2018, the ABCB commissioned a comprehensive literature review by Macquarie University that sought to understand the impact of plumbing products on lead levels, particularly concerning the stringent standards set by the Australian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines. The subsequent report recommended a transition towards lead-free plumbing products.
This new direction also brings Australian standards in line with many other countries around the world, including European and North American nations, who have already implemented stricter limits or banned the use of lead entirely.
Making the shift
The transition away from lead has not happened overnight. Following the initial research from Macquarie University, a phased approach was implemented by the ABCBto help manufacturers, and the industry at large make the necessary changes. The new standards apply to all copper alloy products that are in constant contact with drinking water, which may include fittings, valves, backflow prevention devices, taps, mixers, water heaters, water dispensers (boiling and cooling units) and water metres.
Clause A5G4 of NCC 2022 Volume Three (Plumbing Code of Australia) specifies that the allowable lead content of copper alloy plumbing products in contact with drinking water is a weighted average of less than 0.25%. In recognition of this significant change, a three-year transition period, which officially commenced on May 2, 2023, and concludes on May 1, 2026, was established.
To simplify the process for plumbers, architects, builders, and consumers alike, a readily identifiable "Lead Free WaterMark" trademark has been introduced. This mark offers clear assurance that a product meets the stringent new requirements, facilitating informed decision-making.
How Caroma is leading the industry through the change
As a leading manufacturer and supplier of innovative bathroom fixtures, Caroma has proactively embraced the change, taking significant steps to ensure their entire tapware range meets the new lead-free standards well ahead of the 2026 deadline. By implementing their own phased transition to lead-free tapware, the brand is minimising disruption to its supply chain while ensuring a smooth and manageable shift for specifiers.
A number of Caroma’s most popular collections have already fully transitioned to lead-free brass, and are already available for specification and purchase through all major plumbing merchants. Collection available in Lead Free include:
- Liano II basin mixers
- Urbane II basin mixers
- Luna
- Elegance
- Opal
- Care Plus
The next phase of Caroma’s transition includes G Series +, and Pin tapware; with these ranges to be closely followed by Caroma’s remaining tapware including sensor tapware, remote hob mixers and sink mixers.
Importantly, Caroma will make all their lead-free tapware quickly identifiable through a number of visual cues. The new lead-free WaterMark Logo (which consists of the traditional WaterMark “W” along with the term “LEAD FREE” underneath) will be printed on product packages, and laser etched onto the surface of the product for easy identification. This new identifier will make it easy for specifiers, builders and consumers, but will be particularly important for plumbers, who will need to be vigilant and self-regulate, especially in the coming years when there are excess non-compliant products still in the market.
In addition, Caroma’s lead-free tapware includes a product code that ends with the letter “F”, indicating their lead-free status. Product names and descriptions will also feature “LF”. This clear labelling, which will apply to both physical products and digital platforms, assures specifiers and consumers that the tapware has been meticulously engineered and constructed using lead-free brass.
Future proofing your specifications
It’s essential that specifiers act now to incorporate lead free products in their specification documents, especially for projects that will be underway during the transition period. Getting all parties aligned to designing and quoting lead-free across all water systems will save both time and money by mitigating the risk of project delays with incorrect specifications.
With a comprehensive range of lead-free tapware, clear identification systems, and readily available resources, Caroma is empowering architects, specifiers, and plumbers alike to confidently embrace the new regulations. By partnering with Caroma, the industry can trust they are not only installing safe and compliant products but also aligning themselves with a brand dedicated to leading the industry towards a lead-free future.
