Health Risks of Stagnant Water in Closed Buildings

Understanding Water Contamination in Commercial Properties

As COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted and businesses and workplaces are preparing to reopen, a non-virus health risk caused by the lockdowns may surface — there are concerns that dangerous microbes may be residing in closed buildings’ stagnant water systems.

Legionnaires' Disease Outbreaks from Stagnant Water

The prolonged closure of commercial buildings during COVID-19 lockdowns created ideal conditions for dangerous water contamination. Stagnant water systems allow bacteria like Legionella to proliferate, leading to serious waterborne illnesses such as Legionnaires' disease. Building managers have a critical responsibility to ensure proper water system maintenance before reopening spaces to the public. This toxic exposure represents a significant health hazard that many property owners failed to address adequately. Our personal injury lawyers are experienced in handling cases involving negligence related to commercial buildings water safety protocols.

Stagnant Water is Building Up

The systems in many commercial buildings rely on regular use and the flow of water to keep supplies clean and free of disease-causing bacteria. Due to coronavirus-related shutdowns nationwide, the water systems of many buildings have not been in use. Stagnant water supplies can become ideal conditions for dangerous bacteria to proliferate and potentially lead to waterborne illnesses such as Legionnaires' disease, stated a report on the issue from Crain’s Chicago Business. The article explains, “Water systems in New York and other big cities, including Chicago, were designed for increasing volumes based on projected population growth trends. Drinking water disinfectants, such as chlorine, depend on system-design calculated flows, which include a short time to consumption in order to be effective.”

Many water systems in commercial buildings contain harmful strains of bacteria under typical conditions and rely on the regular flow of water to clean and decontaminate supplies. Without regular use, even periodic flushing can become ineffective at preventing the growth of hazardous bacteria. For this reason, the months without use amidst pandemic-related closings could negatively impact water systems nationwide. Correcting the issue will require the input of engineers, building managers, and other experts who are committed to addressing the problem.

Toxic Exposure Due to Stagnant Water

The lawyers of McNabola & Associates, LLC can represent you in cases of toxic exposure and other personal injury litigation matters. Contact us today to discuss the details of your case.

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