The California Division of State Architect have drafted an administrative interpretation of regulation (IR) to provide direction on the use of non-potable water sources for use as mixing water in concrete. The proposal is to permit the use of non-potable water that has been qualified to be acceptable by ASTM C1602, Specification for Mixing Water Used in the Production of Hydraulic Cement Concrete. Projects within the jurisdiction of DSA includes State of California public elementary and secondary schools (grades K-12 and community colleges), and state-owned or state-leased essential services buildings.

Industry, including NRMCA, was provided an opportunity to comment on the draft IR 19.5. With the critical drought conditions in many parts of California, this initiative is important to support sustainable construction and conserve valuable water resources in the state. ASTM C1602 is referenced in ACI 318 that has been adopted for reference in building codes in most jurisdictions.

For more information, contact Colin Lobo at clobo@nrmca.org.