Water Contamination Categories

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

IICRC defines water in to three separate categories to help our technicians know what the correct way to manage the water and also making sure to keep themselves and everyone who may come into contact with the water safe as possible.

Category 1

When water is category 1 water is means it is classified as ‘clean water’. This means it is not harmful to humans. Some examples of where category 1 water would come from are broken water supply lines or if a tap is left running in a bath and it overflows.

Category 2

This is where the water contains significant contamination and may cause discomfort or illness upon exposure. For example the water may contain unsafe levels of bacteria, viruses or mold. Category 2 water can also be referred to as ‘grey water’. Examples where category 2 water may leak from is dishwasher leak or washing machine overflow.

Category 3

This category of water is grossly contaminated. It can contain toxins or pathogens that cause significant adverse reactions after human exposure. It can also be referred to as ‘black water’. Examples of category 3 water are sewer backups, flooding from rivers or toilet overflow.

Our technicians at SERVPRO of San Jacinto/Idyllwild/Lakeview are highly trained in knowing how to handle each of these categories of water. If you have a water loss please do not hesitate to give us a call!