Interpretation #6607

Original Request

Code Version: 2007
Code: PLUMBING
Code Description
Chapter: 10
Section: 1003.3.2
Topic

Question

Is it the intent of the 2007 FPC Section 1003.3.2
to require food waste grinders to pass thru a
solids interceptor prior to entering a 1250
gallon grease interceptor? Or is this section of
code only pertaining to food watse grinders that
connect to smaller manufactured grease
interceptors that conform to ASME A112.14.3 and
PDI G101.

Answer Published 08/29/2010 at 12:13 PM

Yes, if for some reason the owner or designer want the
discharge of the food waste grinder to be connected to the
grease interceptor. If the designer chooses to discharge
through a grease interceptor, it must first pass through a
solids interceptor so as prevent food and debris from
impeding the function of the interceptor. The code permits
but does not require that food waste grinders discharge
through a grease interceptor.

Commentary

This requirement is intended to apply to all grease interceptors, large and small, inside or outside, connected to private or public sewer systems. Section 1003.3.1 does not list "food waste grinder" among the fixtures and equipment that are required to be connected to grease interceptors. Traditionally, if only cold water is connected to the food waste grinder, the solids are ground up and mixed with cold water so as to prevent the emulsification of grease or oil in the food. Ground solid waste is then able to enter the sewer system unimpeded by grease interceptors or solids interceptors. And it does so, without depositing emusified grease to coagulate and clog the pipes. In other words, neither a grease interceptor nor a solids interceptor is required by the Code for a food waste grinder. The local sewer treatment authority may have different applicable regulations.