Did You Know Water Categories Can Change

7/19/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage can be deceptive. When water sits, time and temperature will affect the Category of the water. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration (IICRC S500), there are three categories of water that cause damage. They are summarized as follows:

Category 1 Water – That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, and subflooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water, can cause Category 1 water to degrade. Examples: burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater.

Category 2 Water – That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with Category 1 water, time and temperature can cause Category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated.

Category 3 Water – That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes.

As shown in the photo, the Category 1 water looks good enough to drink. The Category 2 water, taken only a few days later, has already started to grow bacteria. If you have a water loss, call SERVPRO of Auburn/Rocklin right away. We can help get you dry quickly!

Source: http://www.iicrc.org/registrants/industry-perspective/