Indoor Water Quality
Potable Water Complaint Procedure
These procedures pertain to potable water complaints that are generated inside Purdue University buildings. This is defined as any source of potable water that is plumbed down stream of the water meter. Energy and Utilities is responsible for the wells and water distribution system outside the building and up to the water meter.
Steps:
- The potable water complaint is received or directed to Facility and Occupational Safety at FacOccSafety@groups.purdue.edu.
- The building deputy is contacted and an on site investigation is conducted. The plumbing shop will be notified if their services are needed.
- The extent and nature of the problem is determined and categorized as either non-hazardous, potentially hazardous or hazardous. The following procedures will be initiated after the complaint is categorized.
Non-hazardous Determinations
A non-hazardous determination is one that does not pose a threat to health. This type of complaint concerns common potable water conditions that relate to rust, hardness, water heaters or drip coffee pots. Most complaints will fall into this category.
These situations are explained to the individuals as being a common non-health threatening condition. Recommendations and a copy of the investigation report are provided to the Building Deputy and Central Shop Plumbing.
Potentially Hazardous Determinations
A potentially hazardous determination refers to the presence of an unknown pollutant that has appeared in the potable water system that may or may not constitute a health threat.
The building deputy is notified that water should not be consumed until further notice. Warning signs are posted on the drinking fountains.
Health Hazard Identified
Hazardous conditions are determined if there is a definite health threat concerning the suspicion of chemical or bacterial contamination within the potable system.
The building deputy is notified that the potable water service will be discontinued until further notice. Warning signs are posted on the drinking fountains and on the entry doorways. If necessary, temporary potable water coolers may be supplied to the building.