Protecting Trenchless Technology

The traditional way of repairing a deteriorated pipe is to dig it up and replace it with a new one. Thanks to trenchless technology, pipes can be recycled, rehabilitated and even replaced without disrupting and digging up the earth. As with any new technology, trenchless methods have been challenged over the years, and NASSCO has worked hard to build awareness for these cost-effective and ecologically sound solutions to assure the continued acceptance and growth of all trenchless technologies.

2020

After nearly two years of advocating for the removal of language in the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) that banned the use of cured-in-place pipe and other trenchless technologies to replace cast iron soil pipes and fittings, NASSCO’s Lateral Committee received a decision from the IAMPO Board of Directors that reversed this ban.  Read More.

2018

Between 2018 and 2021 NASSCO turned to institutions of higher learning to identify potential safety risks, if any, from the emission of styrenated resin used in the steam cure of CIPP. Phase One found that previously published reports were non-conclusive. Phase Two produced safety recommendations and updated specification guidelines, and Phase Three is in progress.

2011

The National Toxicology Program of Health and Human Services listed styrene as a potential carcinogen. NASSCO members worked closely with the styrene industry to request a government review of the science behind the findings. Ultimately a congressional committee authorized funding of the study by the National Academy of Science.

2008

Proposed changes to OSHA confined space entry regulations were challenged by NASSCO. If reclassified to “new construction”, routine maintenance jobs would have meant additional jobsite requirements, costing the industry roughly $7.5 million per year. NASSCO testified at congressional hearings to request that OSHA classify rehabilitation work as maintenance. We were successful.

2003

A CCTV manufacturer attempted to get government regulations revised for explosion-proof cameras in a sanitary sewer environment. The proposed revisions would have cost contractors up to a hundred million dollars. Thanks to the unification and determination of NASSCO members to do what is best for our workers and communities, the issue was successfully resolved.

2002

In the late 1990s NASSCO worked closely with the EPA to prevent a proposed ban of acrylamide grout, an effective product to address I/I. Fully supported by contractor, supplier and professional members of NASSCO, many of whom were competitors who came together to do what’s right, the issue was finally resolved in 2002 with a rejection of the proposed ban.

Threatened Trenchless Technology

Are you aware of a threatened trenchless technology? Let us know below.