HARVEY KREITENBERG
FORENSIC PLUMBING EXPERT /UMC TECHNICAL COMMITTEE CHAIR
When did you first get involved with an IAPMO committee and why?
My dad was a plumbing contractor and started his business in 1957. I grew up in the trades and, as a consequence, I have been exposed to IAPMO and the code development process since my late teens.
What does the Uniform Mechanical Code Technical Committee do?
It’s an amazing process and gift to consumers. We specialists and trade or product representatives have the opportunity to ensure that codes are harmonized with technology and the state of the craftsmen themselves. It also provides a fabulous forum for the exchange of ideas, products and conditions that are current or forthcoming.
How does your particular expertise lend itself to your committee’s work?
I have been blessed with the opportunity to chair the UMC Technical Committee for several cycles. As an active mechanical contractor, I bring specialized sensitivities to issues regarding products, designs, and interactions, as well as coordination with municipalities. Furthermore, having managed a large workforce for several decades, my leadership abilities have assisted directing the multifaceted conversations and debates that occur during our code development sessions.
Have there been any unexpectedly pleasant benefits of participating on an IAPMO committee?
The exposure to the brain trust that forms the committee is always an awesome experience — provides me with a lot of confidence for the future of our industry.
Moving forward, which topic(s) do you see as being the most important your committee will tackle?
The integration of technology, product development and the ability to effectively execute designs and installations that are properly responsive to the demands of the consumer and environment.
What would you say to someone thinking about serving on a committee?
Get on board! It is a life changing experience and absolutely self-enriching.
IAPMO
IAPMO develops and publishes the Uniform Plumbing Code®, the most widely recognized code of practice used by the plumbing industry worldwide; Uniform Mechanical Code®; Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code®; and Uniform Solar Energy, Hydronics and Geothermal Code™ — the only plumbing, mechanical, solar energy and swimming pool codes designated by ANSI as American National Standards — and the Water Efficiency Standard (WE-Stand)™. IAPMO works with government, contractors, labor force, and manufacturers to produce product standards, technical manuals, personnel certification/educational programs and additional resources in order to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry in protecting public health and safety.
Last modified: March 18, 2024