Buildings temporarily closed due to COVID-19 present an increased risk for waterborne pathogens like Legionella which can cause Legionnaires’ Disease. Phigenics Director of Standards, Research and Compliance, Molly M. Scanlon, PhD., FAIA, FACHA and Chair of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) COVID-19 task force on health impacts, discusses the risk posed to the public amid the COVID-19 outbreak in a recent Reuters video. The AIA COVID-19 task force has developed an alternative care site (ACS) Preparedness Assessment Tool for healthcare operations in non-healthcare settings as a checklist for use by architects and public agencies during the public health pandemic response about building safety inclusive of water safety.
Dr. Scanlon commented, “My public health education at the University of Arizona encouraged the importance of leadership and service for the greater common good.” As both an environmental health scientist and a licensed architect, she further commented, “Right now citizens are concerned about reopening our nation safely; it’s important to recognize all aspects of safety including building water systems to reduce the risk of illness, injury, or death. Let’s avoid the unintended consequence of Legionnaires’ Disease from dormant building conditions.”
Phigenics can help facility managers and building owners mitigate the risk of waterborne pathogens like Legionellawith ANSI/ASHRAE 188 aligned water management programs. Phigenics services can be offered remotely. For more information on Phigenics water management programs and Legionella testing services please visit: info.phigenics.com or call 1-833-850-4087.
