Answer:
Explanation:
Building and business closures for weeks or months reduce water usage, potentially leading to stagnant
water inside building plumbing. This water can become unsafe to drink or otherwise use for domestic or
commercial purposes. For example, optimal growth conditions for undesirable pathogens, such as
Legionella bacteria, can occur when hot water temperatures decrease and disinfectant residuals (e.g.,
chlorine) drop to low levels. Water chemistry changes may also increase corrosion and leaching of
metals, including lead, and may cause the formation of disinfection by-products. Turning on the water
for immediate use after it has been stagnant can pose a risk to public health if not properly managed.
Additionally, turning on water after a prolonged period of non-use could disrupt pipe and plumbing
scales to such an extent that microbial and chemical contaminants could be released into the water.
EPA recommends that building owners and manage
