Water contamination categories in a disaster event.

by | Mar 20, 2017 | Water Damage, Restoration | 1 comment

Clean water can become unsanitary if left for too long causing water contamination. If it soaks into carpets, soft furnishings or into the pores of the building structure of your property, it can cause major issues such as mould growth. 

Understanding the categories of water contamination determines:

  • The best procedures to restore a home or property
  • The correct drying procedures
  • If carpet & underlay requires removal
  • The proper cleaning & sanitation processes required for the property to be safe to live in. This includes performing clearance tests

Categories of Water Contamination

Water contamination is divided into three separate categories: clean water, grey water and black water. The category of water contamination is not described by the colour of the water present, but by the source of contamination. It is determined by the length of exposure to the contaminants that it comes into contact with.

Category 1 – Clean Water

A Category 1 contamination is classified as a situation where water has originated from a relatively clean source such as:

  • Rain that has entered through an open window
  • Broken or leaking hot water system
  • Burst internal pipe

Clean water if not promptly dried subsequently has the potential to become contaminated as microorganisms begin to multiply. Resulting from this, after 48 hours, an odour will develop and mould growth occurs.

Category 2 – Grey Water

Grey water contamination is classified generally as a situation where water has originated from a grey water source. Some examples include:

  • Leak from a dishwasher or washing machine
  • Overflow in toilet bowl that does not contain faecal matter
  • Overflow from a bath, shower or sink
  • Fish tank leaks
  • Waterbed leaks or bursts

Grey water generally contains microorganisms that have the potential to be pathogenic. Exposure to a grey water source may possibly cause infection or disease in humans due to the number of microorganisms. If a grey water situation is not rectified promptly, the contamination levels have a potential to increase substantially. If left unattended for a period longer than 48 hours may escalate the contamination to a Category 3 black water situation.

Category 3 – Black Water

Category 3 water damage situations are classified as situations where water has originated from a black water source. Black water poses a very significant threat to human health because it can carry a wide variety of pathogens and allergens. Subsequently the severity of the health threat depends on the degree and extent of penetration into the building structure. Most common black water contamination includes:

  • Sewage contamination
  • Flood waters that have entered into the house from outside

The total decontamination and sanitation of an affected property, ensures the home or office is safe for habitation. Successful cleaning of a property impacted by sewage contamination is only complete once a final lab test results give the all clear. The final clearance testing is chiefly to guarantee the safety and well being of all persons residing at the property.

If your property is affected by water inundation and contamination, contact us straightaway on 1300 550 960. Juvenaire aim to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

The longer it is left, the higher the health risk and as a result, the more expensive it becomes to dry, clean and decontaminate your property. 

For more info about Juvenaire’s water decontamination service click here