The compilation of rules governs plumbing installations and upkeep throughout the state. This doc establishes the minimal requirements for protected and sanitary plumbing programs, guaranteeing the right conveyance of potable water and the environment friendly elimination of waste. For example, it specifies pipe sizing, materials necessities, fixture set up pointers, and inspection procedures.
Adherence to those codified pointers is paramount for public well being and security. It prevents waterborne diseases, minimizes the chance of property harm from leaks or backflow, and contributes to water conservation efforts. Traditionally, the event and adoption of such regulatory frameworks have been instrumental in lowering illness outbreaks and enhancing general sanitation requirements all through North Carolina.
An intensive understanding of the precise necessities detailed throughout the adopted requirements is crucial for plumbing professionals, constructing inspectors, and householders alike. Matters lined embody, however should not restricted to, drainage programs, venting necessities, and the right choice and set up of plumbing fixtures and home equipment. Familiarity with these rules facilitates compliance and contributes to the longevity and security of plumbing programs.
1. Rules
Rules type the very basis of the state plumbing code. They’re the precise, enforceable guidelines that dictate how plumbing programs should be designed, put in, and maintained to make sure public well being and security. With out clearly outlined rules, plumbing installations can be inconsistent, probably hazardous, and troublesome to examine and implement.
-
Scope and Applicability
The rules clearly outline which forms of plumbing installations and actions are topic to the necessities. This contains new development, renovations, repairs, and alterations. The scope specifies the geographical areas the place the code applies, in addition to any exemptions or particular situations that will exist. For instance, the rules could stipulate completely different necessities for residential versus business properties, or for plumbing programs serving particular forms of tools.
-
Materials Requirements
Rules throughout the doc dictate the authorized forms of supplies that can be utilized in plumbing programs. This contains specifying acceptable pipe supplies (e.g., copper, PVC, PEX), fittings, fixtures, and different parts. Materials requirements typically reference business consensus requirements developed by organizations like ASTM Worldwide. The intent is to make sure that supplies used are sturdy, protected for potable water conveyance, and immune to corrosion and degradation.
-
Set up Practices
A good portion of the rules addresses correct set up strategies. This contains pointers for pipe sizing, jointing strategies, help and bracing, and safety in opposition to freezing. Particular necessities could exist for the set up of various kinds of plumbing fixtures, corresponding to bathrooms, sinks, showers, and water heaters. Adherence to those practices is essential for stopping leaks, sustaining correct water stress, and guaranteeing the long-term reliability of plumbing programs.
-
Inspection and Enforcement
The rules define the procedures for inspecting plumbing installations to confirm compliance with the code. This contains specifying the forms of inspections required (e.g., rough-in inspection, remaining inspection), the tasks of the plumbing contractor, and the authority of the inspecting official. Enforcement mechanisms, corresponding to fines or corrective actions, are additionally outlined to make sure that violations are addressed promptly and successfully.
The rules detailed throughout the state’s plumbing code e-book are consistently up to date to mirror developments in plumbing know-how, adjustments in business greatest practices, and evolving public well being issues. Periodic revisions make sure that plumbing programs proceed to offer protected and dependable service to the residents of North Carolina. Information of those rules is thus important for all concerned within the plumbing subject.
2. Set up
The method of set up is intrinsically linked to the specs detailed throughout the plumbing code e-book. Code necessities instantly affect each facet of plumbing system setup, from the number of authorized supplies to the exact strategies used for connecting pipes and fixtures. Deviations from mandated set up procedures can lead to code violations, compromising system integrity and probably resulting in water harm, well being hazards, or structural points. A accurately put in plumbing system, conversely, ensures environment friendly water utilization, prevents leaks, and maintains sanitary situations, as supposed by the established rules. For instance, improper sloping of drain strains, a violation of set up requirements, can result in blockages and backflow, creating unsanitary situations and potential well being dangers. Adherence to the code throughout set up is thus paramount for guaranteeing the protected and dependable operation of plumbing programs.
A sensible understanding of set up necessities extends past merely following directions. It necessitates a complete understanding of the underlying ideas governing plumbing system design and performance. This contains data of stress dynamics, movement charges, venting necessities, and the compatibility of various supplies. For example, a plumber should perceive easy methods to correctly dimension drain pipes to accommodate anticipated wastewater movement, in addition to easy methods to strategically find vents to forestall sewer gasoline from coming into buildings. Correct set up, primarily based on this deep understanding, promotes system longevity and minimizes the necessity for expensive repairs or modifications. Moreover, expert installers are in a position to adapt to unexpected website situations and implement artistic options whereas remaining compliant with code stipulations.
In abstract, the set up section represents a essential juncture the place theoretical code necessities are translated into tangible, useful plumbing programs. Challenges corresponding to complicated constructing designs or restrictive website situations necessitate a radical understanding of the code and its sensible utility. Compliance throughout set up will not be merely a matter of adhering to rules; it’s a proactive measure that protects public well being, safeguards property, and ensures the long-term effectivity and sustainability of plumbing infrastructure. The direct connection between set up practices and code adherence underscores the significance of certified and educated plumbing professionals.
3. Inspection
Inspection serves as a essential verification course of guaranteeing adherence to the rules outlined within the state’s plumbing code. This oversight is crucial for sustaining the integrity of plumbing programs and defending public well being.
-
Goal of Inspections
The first goal of plumbing inspections is to verify that installations align with the minimal security and efficiency requirements established by the related regulatory framework. This contains verifying correct supplies, set up strategies, and system performance. For example, an inspection may establish improperly supported drain strains, undersized water provide pipes, or insufficient backflow prevention gadgets, all of which pose potential dangers to property and well being.
-
Varieties of Inspections
Varied inspection sorts happen at completely different levels of a plumbing undertaking. A “rough-in” inspection usually happens earlier than partitions are lined, permitting for verification of pipe structure, venting, and drainage programs. A “remaining” inspection is performed upon completion of the undertaking to make sure all fixtures are correctly put in and functioning accurately. Specialised inspections might also be required for particular parts, corresponding to backflow preventers or water heaters. Every inspection sort focuses on particular elements of the set up to make sure complete code compliance.
-
Inspector Authority and Accountability
Plumbing inspectors, usually employed by native authorities companies, are licensed to implement the provisions of the plumbing code. Their tasks embody reviewing plans, conducting website inspections, issuing notices of violation, and approving accomplished work. Inspectors are tasked with decoding and making use of the code constantly and impartially to make sure public security and welfare. Their choices instantly affect the approval and occupancy of buildings and constructions.
-
Penalties of Non-Compliance
Failure to adjust to the plumbing code, as recognized throughout inspection, can lead to vital penalties. These could embody the issuance of correction notices, fines, and even the denial of occupancy permits. In circumstances of significant violations that pose an instantaneous risk to well being or security, inspectors could order the fast cessation of labor and require corrective motion earlier than permitting development to proceed. Non-compliance also can result in authorized liabilities and elevated insurance coverage prices for property homeowners and contractors.
The inspection course of, subsequently, is an important mechanism for guaranteeing that plumbing programs meet the minimal security requirements outlined throughout the state’s plumbing rules. It offers a essential safeguard in opposition to potential well being hazards and property harm, thereby selling the general well-being of the neighborhood. Strict and thorough inspection practices are basic to sustaining the integrity of the plumbing infrastructure.
4. Supplies
The connection between permissible plumbing supplies and the regulatory framework of the state’s plumbing information is one in all direct codification. The doc explicitly dictates the forms of supplies licensed to be used in plumbing programs, defining particular standards for every. This encompasses pipes, fittings, fixtures, and some other part concerned within the conveyance or disposal of water and waste. The choice and approval of those supplies should not arbitrary; they’re primarily based on components corresponding to sturdiness, resistance to corrosion, compatibility with potable water, and adherence to established efficiency requirements. For example, the information could specify that solely sure grades of PVC pipe are permissible for drainage programs, successfully prohibiting the usage of supplies that lack the mandatory energy or chemical resistance. This direct correlation between specified supplies and code compliance ensures that plumbing programs are constructed utilizing parts that meet minimal security and efficiency thresholds.
The implications of those materials specs lengthen past mere compliance; they instantly affect the longevity and reliability of plumbing infrastructure. By proscribing the usage of substandard or inappropriate supplies, the code minimizes the chance of leaks, failures, and potential well being hazards. Contemplate the instance of lead pipes: Traditionally, lead was generally utilized in water distribution programs, however its toxicity led to widespread contamination and well being issues. Fashionable plumbing codes explicitly prohibit the usage of lead pipes and mandate the usage of safer alternate options, corresponding to copper or PEX. This shift displays a proactive method to defending public well being by regulating the supplies utilized in plumbing programs. The financial advantages are vital as nicely: sturdy, code-approved supplies scale back the lifecycle price of plumbing programs by minimizing the necessity for repairs and replacements.
In abstract, the state’s plumbing rules set up a transparent hyperlink between authorized supplies and the security and performance of plumbing programs. By specifying acceptable materials sorts and efficiency requirements, the code protects public well being, promotes system longevity, and minimizes the chance of expensive failures. Nonetheless, challenges persist in guaranteeing constant enforcement of fabric requirements and in adapting to evolving applied sciences and materials improvements. Ongoing analysis and improvement, coupled with rigorous code enforcement, are important for sustaining the integrity of plumbing programs and safeguarding public welfare. Moreover, continued schooling of plumbing professionals and householders alike is important to keep up code consciousness and guarantee correct materials choice and set up.
5. Drainage
The drainage facet of plumbing programs is critically ruled by the stipulations outlined within the state’s plumbing rules. Correct drainage is crucial for the protected and sanitary elimination of wastewater, stopping the buildup of doubtless dangerous substances and mitigating the chance of illness transmission. These rules present a complete framework for designing, putting in, and sustaining drainage programs that meet specified efficiency requirements.
-
Pipe Sizing and Slope
Rules dictate the minimal diameter of drain pipes primarily based on the sort and variety of fixtures served, in addition to the required slope for gravity-driven movement. Undersized pipes or insufficient slope can result in backups and blockages, compromising the performance of the drainage system and creating unsanitary situations. For instance, a bathroom drain usually requires a bigger diameter pipe than a sink drain, and all drain strains should preserve a minimal slope to make sure environment friendly wastewater elimination. Improper sizing and slope are widespread sources of code violations and can lead to expensive remediation efforts.
-
Supplies and Connections
The state’s plumbing code specifies authorized supplies for drain pipes and fittings, taking into consideration components corresponding to sturdiness, chemical resistance, and compatibility with wastewater. Connections between pipes should be made utilizing authorized strategies to forestall leaks and make sure the integrity of the drainage system. The usage of unauthorized supplies or improper connection strategies can compromise the system’s long-term efficiency and probably result in environmental contamination. Rules deal with connections to the general public sewer system and necessities for cleanouts, offering entry for upkeep and inspection.
-
Traps and Vents
Rules mandate the set up of traps beneath fixtures to forestall sewer gases from coming into buildings, and venting programs to keep up atmospheric stress inside drain strains, guaranteeing correct movement. Traps are usually U-shaped pipes that maintain a small quantity of water, making a seal in opposition to sewer gases. Vents present an air pathway to equalize stress, stopping siphoning of water from traps. Improperly put in or lacking traps and vents are vital code violations that can lead to well being hazards and unsightly odors.
-
Grease Interceptors and Particular Waste
For business institutions that generate vital quantities of grease or different particular waste, the code requires the set up of grease interceptors or different pretreatment gadgets to forestall these substances from coming into the general public sewer system. These gadgets are designed to take away grease and solids from wastewater earlier than it’s discharged, lowering the chance of sewer blockages and environmental contamination. Rules specify the sizing, set up, and upkeep necessities for these specialised programs.
These interconnected parts of drainage are exactly outlined and managed by the state’s plumbing mandates to safeguard public well being and infrastructure. Compliance with these rules necessitates a radical understanding of plumbing ideas and a dedication to following prescribed procedures, demonstrating the essential hyperlink between knowledgeable apply and accountable development.
6. Venting
Venting programs are integral to plumbing, and the specs for his or her design and set up are comprehensively detailed throughout the state’s plumbing rules. Correct venting ensures the environment friendly and sanitary elimination of wastewater by sustaining atmospheric stress throughout the drainage system, stopping entice siphonage and sewer gasoline intrusion.
-
Goal and Perform of Venting
Venting programs serve to equalize air stress inside drain pipes, stopping vacuum or stress imbalances that might siphon water from fixture traps. These traps create a water seal that blocks sewer gases from coming into occupied areas. With out satisfactory venting, the water seal in a bathroom, sink, or bathe entice may very well be drawn away, permitting noxious and probably harmful gases to enter the constructing. The state’s plumbing code mandates the right design and set up of venting programs to keep up this essential barrier in opposition to sewer gasoline infiltration. For instance, a accurately put in vent will stop the gurgling sound typically heard when a fixture drains, indicating that the entice is being siphoned.
-
Varieties of Vent Methods
A number of forms of venting programs are acknowledged and controlled, every with particular functions and limitations. These embody particular person vents, widespread vents, circuit vents, and moist vents. Particular person vents join on to a fixture entice arm and lengthen to the surface or to a standard vent stack. Frequent vents serve a number of fixtures, whereas circuit vents are utilized in multi-fixture installations like a row of sinks. Moist venting permits a drain line to additionally function a vent below sure situations, as permitted by the regulatory framework. The plumbing code specifies the allowable configurations and limitations for every sort of vent system, guaranteeing that they supply satisfactory air flow whereas minimizing the complexity of the plumbing community.
-
Vent Sizing and Termination
The dimensions of vent pipes is dictated by the diameter of the drain pipes they serve, in addition to the size of the vent system. Undersized vents can limit airflow and compromise the effectiveness of the venting system, whereas outsized vents provide no useful profit and may improve materials prices. Vent terminals, the place vents exit the constructing, should be positioned in accordance with code necessities to forestall sewer gases from re-entering by home windows or air intakes. The code specifies minimal distances from home windows, doorways, and different openings, in addition to top necessities above the roofline. Correct vent sizing and termination are important for guaranteeing that venting programs operate successfully and with out creating nuisances or well being hazards.
-
Supplies and Set up Requirements
The supplies used for vent pipes should conform to the requirements outlined within the plumbing rules, usually matching the supplies used for drain pipes. The code specifies acceptable pipe supplies, fittings, and connection strategies, guaranteeing that the venting system is sturdy and immune to corrosion. Set up requirements deal with points corresponding to correct help, safety from freezing, and avoidance of obstructions that might impede airflow. Compliance with these requirements is essential for sustaining the integrity and long-term efficiency of the venting system. Non-compliant venting installations can result in expensive repairs and potential well being dangers.
The correct design and implementation of venting programs, as dictated by the states rules, are paramount for guaranteeing the protected and environment friendly operation of plumbing programs. Understanding these intricacies is essential for plumbing professionals and householders alike to keep away from potential hazards and preserve code compliance. A well-vented system protects public well being and ensures the longevity of plumbing infrastructure.
7. Water Provide
The availability of protected and potable water to buildings is a major operate of plumbing programs, and the state’s plumbing rules comprehensively deal with all elements of water provide, from supply to fixture. These rules are designed to guard public well being, guarantee satisfactory water stress and movement charges, and stop contamination of the water provide.
-
Supplies and Requirements
The state’s plumbing code specifies the suitable supplies for water provide pipes, fittings, and fixtures, guaranteeing that they’re protected for contact with potable water and immune to corrosion. Supplies should meet stringent requirements set by organizations like NSF Worldwide to forestall leaching of dangerous substances into the water provide. For instance, the code prohibits the usage of lead pipes and mandates the usage of lead-free supplies involved with potable water. Non-compliance with materials requirements can lead to water contamination and potential well being dangers.
-
Water Stress and Circulation Charges
Rules set up minimal water stress and movement price necessities at fixtures to make sure satisfactory efficiency. Low water stress can lead to unsatisfactory showering or difficulties in working home equipment, whereas extreme stress can harm pipes and fixtures. The plumbing code specifies the minimal water stress that should be maintained at numerous factors within the system and offers pointers for sizing water provide pipes to ship satisfactory movement charges to fixtures. Correct water stress and movement charges are important for the environment friendly and handy use of plumbing fixtures.
-
Backflow Prevention
The code mandates the set up of backflow prevention gadgets to guard the potable water provide from contamination attributable to backpressure or backsiphonage. Backflow can happen when non-potable water or different substances are drawn into the water provide system, probably contaminating the whole system. Backflow prevention gadgets, corresponding to verify valves and lowered stress zone backflow preventers, stop this from taking place. Rules specify the forms of backflow prevention gadgets required for various functions, corresponding to irrigation programs, fireplace sprinkler programs, and connections to non-potable water sources.
-
Water Heater Set up and Security
The state’s plumbing rules embody detailed necessities for the set up and security of water heaters. These necessities deal with points corresponding to venting of combustion gases, temperature and stress aid valves, and seismic bracing. Improperly put in water heaters can pose vital security dangers, together with explosions, carbon monoxide poisoning, and scalding. The code specifies the situation, venting, and security options required for water heaters to reduce these dangers. Common inspection and upkeep of water heaters are additionally vital for guaranteeing their protected and environment friendly operation.
These numerous aspects of water provide, as ruled by the state’s plumbing information, collectively make sure that potable water is delivered safely and reliably to customers. Adherence to those rules is essential for shielding public well being and sustaining the integrity of water provide infrastructure. Continued vigilance and correct enforcement of those rules are important to fulfill the evolving challenges of water provide administration.
8. Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures, outlined as gadgets that obtain or discharge water or waste, are extensively regulated by the state’s plumbing code. These rules make sure that fixtures are put in and performance in a way that protects public well being, conserves water, and prevents cross-contamination.
-
Varieties and Approvals
The code specifies the forms of fixtures permitted to be used, together with bathrooms, sinks, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, and washing machines. Authorised fixtures should meet efficiency requirements established by organizations like ASME or IAPMO. The code outlines necessities for water consumption, drainage capability, and materials composition. For instance, the rules could mandate the usage of low-flow bathrooms or specify the forms of supplies permissible for bathe enclosures. Adherence to those requirements is crucial for conserving water and stopping the expansion of dangerous micro organism.
-
Set up Necessities
Detailed set up necessities are outlined throughout the plumbing code to make sure correct fixture placement and connection to water and drainage programs. These necessities deal with points corresponding to fixture clearances, help, and accessibility for upkeep and restore. The code specifies the minimal distance between fixtures and partitions, the kind of drain connections required, and the necessity for shut-off valves for every fixture. Correct set up prevents leaks, ensures satisfactory drainage, and facilitates future repairs.
-
Water Provide Connections
Rules govern the way during which fixtures connect with the potable water provide, emphasizing backflow prevention to guard water high quality. The code mandates the usage of air gaps or backflow preventers to forestall non-potable water from siphoning again into the water provide. Particular necessities exist for connecting fixtures to cold and hot water provides, guaranteeing correct temperature management and stopping scalding hazards. Compliance with these necessities is essential for safeguarding the water provide from contamination.
-
Drainage and Venting
The plumbing code dictates how fixtures should be linked to the drainage and venting programs to make sure correct wastewater elimination and stop sewer gasoline intrusion. Every fixture requires a entice to forestall sewer gases from coming into the constructing, and the code specifies the sort and dimension of traps required. Venting programs should be designed to keep up atmospheric stress throughout the drainage system, stopping entice siphonage. Correct drainage and venting are important for sustaining sanitary situations and stopping the buildup of dangerous gases.
The stringent rules surrounding fixtures, as delineated throughout the state’s plumbing mandates, serve to guard public well being, preserve water assets, and preserve the integrity of plumbing programs. Code compliance is important for guaranteeing that fixtures operate safely and effectively, contributing to a wholesome and sustainable constructed surroundings.
Incessantly Requested Questions Concerning the NC Plumbing Code Ebook
This part addresses widespread inquiries in regards to the scope, utility, and enforcement of the established plumbing requirements inside North Carolina. These questions are supposed to make clear particular elements of the regulatory framework for plumbing programs.
Query 1: What version of the plumbing code is at present enforced in North Carolina?
The North Carolina Constructing Code Council adopts particular editions of the Worldwide Plumbing Code (IPC) with state-specific amendments. It’s crucial to seek the advice of the official web site of the North Carolina Division of Insurance coverage or the North Carolina Constructing Code Council to establish the at present enforced version, as adoptions happen on a cyclical foundation.
Query 2: The place can a replica of the North Carolina Plumbing Code be obtained?
The code is accessible for buy from a number of sources, together with the Worldwide Code Council (ICC) and numerous on-line retailers specializing in constructing codes. Moreover, public libraries and native constructing departments could preserve copies for reference. It’s essential to make sure that the bought or referenced copy contains any state-specific amendments promulgated by the North Carolina Constructing Code Council.
Query 3: Are native jurisdictions permitted to amend the North Carolina Plumbing Code?
Whereas the North Carolina Constructing Code Council establishes the statewide minimal requirements, native jurisdictions could have the authority to undertake extra stringent necessities by native ordinances, supplied such amendments are justified and don’t battle with state legislation. Seek the advice of native constructing departments to establish if any native amendments apply inside a particular jurisdiction.
Query 4: Who’s answerable for imposing the North Carolina Plumbing Code?
Enforcement accountability usually rests with native constructing departments. Licensed plumbing inspectors employed by these departments assessment plans, conduct website inspections, and situation notices of violation for non-compliant installations. The precise enforcement mechanisms and procedures could fluctuate barely amongst completely different jurisdictions.
Query 5: What are the implications of violating the North Carolina Plumbing Code?
Violations can lead to a variety of penalties, together with correction notices, fines, and stop-work orders. Repeated or egregious violations might also result in authorized motion and potential license revocation for plumbing contractors. The severity of the penalty usually is dependent upon the character and extent of the violation and its potential affect on public well being and security.
Query 6: How often is the North Carolina Plumbing Code up to date?
The North Carolina Constructing Code Council opinions and updates the plumbing code on a periodic foundation, usually each three to 6 years, to include developments in plumbing know-how, adjustments in business greatest practices, and evolving public well being issues. Registered plumbers and development professionals are anticipated to remain updated with these adjustments.
In summation, comprehension of the provisions throughout the doc is paramount for guaranteeing compliance and upholding security requirements in plumbing installations all through the state.
The following part will delve into assets out there for additional studying and code interpretation.
Important Steerage for Navigating Plumbing Rules
The next ideas are designed to reinforce understanding and facilitate efficient utility of the states codified plumbing requirements.
Tip 1: Seek the advice of the Official Doc Immediately: Reliance on secondary interpretations of rules is discouraged. Direct reference to the latest model ensures correct understanding and compliance.
Tip 2: Familiarize Your self with State-Particular Amendments: The state’s Constructing Code Council typically introduces amendments to the Worldwide Plumbing Code. Thorough assessment of those modifications is crucial.
Tip 3: Perceive Native Jurisdictional Variations: Whereas the state establishes minimal requirements, native jurisdictions could impose extra stringent necessities. Contact the related native constructing division to establish any relevant variations.
Tip 4: Prioritize Correct Materials Choice: Adherence to the desired materials requirements is paramount. Make use of solely authorized supplies to make sure system longevity and stop potential well being hazards.
Tip 5: Preserve Complete Documentation: Correct information of plumbing installations, together with supplies used and inspection approvals, are essential for demonstrating compliance and facilitating future upkeep.
Tip 6: Take part in Persevering with Training: The plumbing business is topic to ongoing technological developments and regulatory adjustments. Steady skilled improvement is crucial for sustaining competence and guaranteeing compliance.
Tip 7: Seek the advice of with Skilled Professionals: When going through complicated or ambiguous code necessities, search steerage from skilled plumbing engineers or licensed plumbing inspectors. Their experience can show invaluable in navigating difficult conditions.
Tip 8: Totally Assessment Plans Earlier than Commencing Work: Guarantee plumbing plans adjust to all relevant rules previous to initiating any set up actions. This proactive measure minimizes the chance of expensive rework and potential code violations.
Mastering plumbing rules ensures public security, system integrity, {and professional} credibility. The proactive utility of the following tips facilitates efficient compliance with code requirements.
The following part will present assets for added help and additional code insights.
Conclusion
This exploration of the nc plumbing code e-book has illuminated its essential function in safeguarding public well being and guaranteeing the right functioning of plumbing programs throughout the state. The rules detailed throughout the code govern all elements of plumbing, from materials choice and set up practices to inspection procedures and ongoing upkeep. Strict adherence to those requirements is crucial for stopping waterborne diseases, minimizing the chance of property harm, and selling water conservation efforts.
The continued vigilance and diligent utility of the nc plumbing code e-book are paramount for sustaining the integrity of the state’s plumbing infrastructure and defending the well-being of its residents. Plumbing professionals, constructing inspectors, and householders alike should stay knowledgeable in regards to the newest code revisions and proactively implement its provisions to make sure a protected and sustainable water surroundings for future generations.
