What is the primary purpose of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)?

The primary purpose of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) is to provide standards for plumbing system design and installation. This ensures that plumbing systems are safe, reliable, and efficient, addressing public health and safety concerns. The UPC establishes minimum requirements for the design, construction, and maintenance of plumbing systems, which helps prevent plumbing-related issues such as leaks, contamination of potable water, and other hazards that can arise from substandard plumbing practices. By setting uniform standards, the UPC facilitates consistency across different jurisdictions, promoting high-quality workmanship and the protection of both the public and the environment in plumbing matters.

While the other options touch on various aspects of plumbing and regulations, they do not encapsulate the overarching purpose of the UPC as comprehensively as the correct answer does. The UPC's emphasis on standards for design and installation is foundational to its role in the plumbing industry.