Water Quality Management

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the water testing mean for the tenant?

The Routine Water System Maintenance Program offers several key benefits for tenants:

Safe Drinking Water: Reduced risk of waterborne illnesses.
Improved Water Quality: Enhanced taste and clarity of water.
Regulatory Compliance: Assurance that our facilities meet all state and federal water quality standards.
Proactive Maintenance: Prevents potential water system issues before they arise.

When will state buildings get tested?

The department’s annual testing schedule is organized by region to ensure consistent monitoring across all facilities.

How are water quality results used?

All testing results are meticulously reviewed to ensure compliance with the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) and EPA standards. Any exceedances or anomalies above defined thresholds trigger immediate corrective action, including re-testing, system flushing, and further investigation. Results are also used for ongoing reporting and continuous improvement of our water quality management practices.

Is the water safe to use for handwashing or dishwashing after positive results for Legionella, lead, and copper, or Total Coliform/E. coli?

Legionella: Water can be safely used for handwashing and dishwashing, as these activities typically do not generate aerosols. Cold water can also be used since Legionella thrives in hot water plumbing.
Lead and Copper: Use only cold water for drinking and cooking, as hot water increases metal leaching. Flush cold water before use and avoid ingestion. Non-ingestive uses, such as handwashing and dishwashing, pose no risk.
E. coli / Total Coliform: Do not use the water for any purpose until it has been treated and confirmed safe.

Understanding Legionella

What is Legionella?

Legionella is a naturally occurring bacteria found in freshwater environments. When it grows in human-made water systems (like cooling towers, hot water tanks, and plumbing systems), it can cause Leionnaires' disease, a serious type of pneumonia.

What is Legionnaires’ disease? What symptoms should people be aware of?

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches.

How do people contract Legionnaires’ disease?

People contract Legionnaires’ disease by inhaling small water droplets (aerosols) contaminated with Legionella, typically from showers, cooling towers, or other devices that spray water drops. Legionnaires' disease does not spread person-to-person.

Are buildings with elevated Legionella levels safe to occupy?
Yes. Buildings remain safe to occupy while corrective measures are in place. Elevated levels (1 CFU/mL or higher) indicate a need for intervention, but risks are manageable when water management practices—such as flushing, temperature control, and system disinfection—are actively implemented. Additional precautions apply in facilities with vulnerable populations or areas with aerosolized water (e.g., cooling towers, spas).

Is my drinking water safe?

Yes. Drinking water is treated and monitored according to state and federal standards. The risk comes from inhaling contaminated water droplets, not drinking the water.

What is the risk of contracting Legionnaires’ disease from various water fixtures, such as drinking fountains and bathroom sinks?

The risk of illness from Legionella remains very low. Few cases of Legionnaires’ disease occur, despite its common presence in water systems. However, we still take proactive measures to address underlying factors and reduce potential risks.

Why can fixtures still be used when Legionella is detected?

Regular use of fixtures helps prevent water stagnation and reduces Legionella growth. Removing fixtures from service can worsen conditions by allowing water to sit still. Public health agencies, including CDC and ASHRAE, recommend continued fixture use along with proper flushing protocols and temperature control.

What if I have questions about water quality in a state-owned and operated building?

For questions or more information about maintaining water quality in state buildings, please contact the DGS Office of Facilities Management.

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 410-767-1400