ASSE’s product standards activity was born out if its disease research work about 55 years ago. It was found that while there were many standards for conventional plumbing and sanitation products, such as materials, pipe, valves, fittings, appliances, etc., only one or two standards existed for mechanical hardware- the preventive and controlling products.

The ASSE Standards Program was initiated, developed and accelerated with attention given to specific products and the development of performance standards. To ensure continuity of growth and progress, a standing committee was established with specific duties and responsibilities as shown in the ASSE By-Laws. In every case, both the interests of the public and the producer were the most vital parts of the procedure. Emphasis in all cases was on performance and application needs.

ASSE standards are developed and changed by requests and proposals from industry personnel. The ASSE Standards Committee is constantly on alert for professional proposals covering proven and important standards needs to create meaningful progress for all professional elements in an industry. The purpose is improved public health and living standards in today’s world.

What are these ASSE Standards?

They are prescriptions for recognized, essential performance capabilities of regulation and preventive devices and appliances that must control or eliminate conditions which could adversely affect the performance of plumbing systems or create a public health and safety hazard.

Each ASSE Standard is a mini-handbook on a specific subject- an education tool to be used by those who practice plumbing. Within the text, references to construction or material are made only when they are considered meaningful to continued and reliable behavior in the water supply or sanitary drainage system.

The major consideration in constructing an ASSE standard is fundamentally: What the Product Is to Do, Not How It Is to Do It.