Mitigating Water Damage Exposure Risks in the Built Environment

Anytime water damage takes place indoors, it can potentially result in the destruction of building materials, equipment, furniture, and belongings. In some cases, it could even cause structural damage. Water damage can also create an indoor environment that could be hazardous to building occupants.

Depending on the water source, it could contain bacteria, viruses, mold, chemicals, and more. Even water damage due to clean water, known as Category 1 Water, can result in mold growth in as short as 24 to 48 hours.

Category 2 Water, known as Grey Water, typically contains a significant amount of biological or physical contaminants that can cause sickness when humans are exposed or if it is accidently consumed. Examples include sump pump failures and water discharged from a dishwasher or washing machine. Category 2 Water, which is not promptly removed or has remained stagnant, may at times be reclassified as Category 3 Water.

Category 3 Water, also known as Black Water, is grossly contaminated. It may contain harmful pathogens, microbes, and chemicals that could cause illness. Sources include sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, and standing water.

It is also important to recognize that during the drying process, other contaminants or materials already in the building may cause health concerns. For example, asbestos-containing materials or lead-based paints may become aerosolized if not handled properly. The drying process could also result in airborne contaminants, such as mold spores, being spread throughout a property, even into areas not damaged by the water.

“Regardless of the water source or category, it needs to be safely removed as quickly as possible,” said Frank Selamie, President of CTSI. “Facility managers, property owners, and tenants concerned about potential exposures to indoor environmental quality issues due to water damage or other causes can turn to the building science experts at CTSI. Our professionals offer comprehensive testing, monitoring, and consulting services to identify, mitigate, and eliminate these types of hazards in all types of buildings.”

CTSI also recently sponsored an educational video about water damage and indoor exposure risks that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/UcLkVBhsenw

To learn more about this or other industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, environmental, health, and safety services, please visit www.ctsiweb.com, email contactus@ctsiweb.com, or call (212) 971-7016.

About CTSI
Established in 1992, Consulting & Testing Services, Inc. (CTSI) was founded on one strong commitment: to provide efficient and expert services to clients based on professionalism, innovation, and cost-effective expert solutions. This commitment has been furthered with CTSI’s reputation in fostering client relationships in all sectors of the Environmental, Health, Safety, and Construction industries. CTSI prides itself in utilizing a high quality service based on its diverse team of staff and professionals’ concise recommendations and solutions to the most pressing dilemmas. The company operates offices in New York and Florida that service clients across the United States.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

Contact via E-mail