WALMART MAINTENANCE Plumbing and Facilities 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the correct procedure when shutting off water to a Walmart restroom for repairs during store hours?
- Post an 'Out of Service' sign and notify store management before shutting off water (Correct answer)
- Shut off the main building supply immediately and begin work
- Only work during overnight hours without any notification required
- Use a temporary bypass hose and proceed without notification
Correct answer: Post an 'Out of Service' sign and notify store management before shutting off water
Before shutting off water to active areas, maintenance must notify management and post appropriate signage to minimize customer and staff impact.
Question 2: A Walmart technician is replacing a wax ring on a toilet. What should be done before removing the toilet from the floor flange?
- Turn off the water supply and flush to empty the tank and bowl (Correct answer)
- Apply plumber's putty around the base
- Pour drain cleaner to clear any blockage first
- Pressurize the line to force remaining water out
Correct answer: Turn off the water supply and flush to empty the tank and bowl
Before removing a toilet, the water supply must be shut off and the tank and bowl flushed empty to avoid spills.
Question 3: Which pipe material is most commonly used for Walmart store drain, waste, and vent (DWV) systems installed in recent construction?
- Cast iron
- Galvanized steel
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) (Correct answer)
- Copper
Correct answer: PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
PVC is the dominant material for modern DWV systems due to its low cost, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation.
Question 4: A Walmart produce department has a mop sink that won't drain. After clearing visible debris, the drain still flows slowly. What should the technician do next?
- Use a drain snake or auger to clear deeper blockage in the line (Correct answer)
- Replace the entire drain pipe immediately
- Increase the water pressure to flush the clog
- Install a larger diameter drain cover
Correct answer: Use a drain snake or auger to clear deeper blockage in the line
A drain snake or auger is the appropriate next step to clear a blockage that persists after removing visible surface debris.
Question 5: What does 'GPF' stand for in the context of Walmart restroom fixtures, and why is it important?
- Gallons Per Flush — it determines water usage efficiency of toilets and urinals (Correct answer)
- Gas Pressure Flow — it measures gas line capacity
- Grade Point Factor — it rates fixture durability
- General Plumbing Fixture — it classifies fixture types
Correct answer: Gallons Per Flush — it determines water usage efficiency of toilets and urinals
GPF (Gallons Per Flush) is the water consumption rating for toilets and urinals, directly affecting water costs and code compliance.
Question 6: A backflow preventer installed on a Walmart garden center hose bib requires annual testing. Who is typically authorized to perform this test?
- Any Walmart maintenance technician
- A certified backflow prevention assembly tester (Correct answer)
- The local water utility company only
- A licensed electrician
Correct answer: A certified backflow prevention assembly tester
Backflow preventer testing must be performed by a certified backflow prevention assembly tester as required by most local codes.
Question 7: What is the minimum slope per foot typically required for horizontal drain pipes in commercial plumbing to ensure proper drainage?
- 1/16 inch per foot
- 1/4 inch per foot (Correct answer)
- 1/2 inch per foot
- 1 inch per foot
Correct answer: 1/4 inch per foot
Most commercial plumbing codes require a minimum slope of 1/4 inch per foot (2% grade) for horizontal drain pipes to maintain self-cleaning velocity.
What is the correct procedure when shutting off water to a Walmart restroom for repairs during store hours?