The Michigan Construction Code Commission recently ruled that state contractors would be barred from using 
Chinese-made cast iron pipe and fittings sold by California-based MWI Plumbing Wholesale, Inc. 
The prohibition against using this material would apply to state construction jobs, 
including schools.  

The ruling was based on MWI's apparent inability to meet basic manufacturing standards.   "The concern shared by the 
plumbing board and the Michigan Construction Code Commission is there isn't the ability by MWI to set forth control 
over the manufacturers of the product that would demonstrate compliance with state code," said Henry Green, executive 
director of the Bureau of Construction Codes.   

Codes and standards for the production of cast iron DWV material require that regular testing be done during production 
to ensure that quality benchmarks are being met. Concerns about MWI's compliance were raised when test data 
were submitted by the importer that caused many to doubt their authenticity.   "Quite frankly, it's very difficult to 
manufacture cast iron pipe with the same dimensional characteristics over that period of time," Green said. 
"We want to assure the products installed in buildings will provide for longevity and secure the safety of the occupants," 
he said. 

Concerns about the pipes came to light in January 2005, when state plumbing inspectors refused to allow Chinese pipes 
sold by MWI to be installed at Southfield High School, because they did not meet state standards.   Since that time, 
the Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute, the industry group charged with promulgating standards for pipe and fittings sold in 
America, has been actively involved with this issue.   

"We work hard to make sure our products meet the industry standards," said AB&I's Kip Wixson, "and welcome 
CISPI's efforts to watchdog providers who can't or won't provide material that meet the quality and safety standards 
we all expect from cast iron DWV."   

To ensure that AB&I products meet all standards, unannounced foundry inspections are performed 
by NSF-certified CISPI personnel several times a year. Raw materials, molten iron, and finished products are tested 
during these visits, and production methods are intensively reviewed to assure ongoing compliance. These test data 
are then provided to state agencies, listing bodies, and any other interested party to support AB&I's commitment to 
product quality and public safety.