IICRC Water Types

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Category 1

This is liquid from a clean and sanitary source, such as faucets, toilet tanks, drinking fountains (bubblers), etc. But, category one can quickly degrade into category two.

Category 2

Gray water contains a significant level of contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if consumed by or exposed to humans. This category of liquid used to be called "gray water," and is described as having a level of contaminates that may cause illness or discomfort if ingested. Sources include dishwasher or washing machine overflows, flush from sink drains, and toilet overflow with some urine, but not feces. 

Category 3

Black water contains pathogenic agents and is grossly unsanitary. This is the worst classification. It could cause severe illness or death if ingested. It used to be called black water, and sources include sewer backups, flooding from rivers or streams, toilet overflow with feces, and stagnant liquid that has begun to support bacterial growth.

Did you Know

Category 1 & 2 can become Category 3 if the water travels from a clean space to a dirty one. Ground water is classified as Category 3 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Water that is found outside could contain outdoor pollutants and carry them into the living structure.