Knowledge gaps and risks associated with premise plumbing drinking water quality

Sustainability, water conservation, water efficiency, and green infrastructure have led to significant decreases in the quantity of water used in buildings. In addition, changes in water usage, building design, plumbing material selection, and high-efficiency fixtures contribute to water age and potential chemical and microbiological contamination. Through a literature review and stakeholder workshop with representatives from the public and private sectors, this article explores the current state of the science on plumbing safety. Results indicate that links between water usage, design, and material selection and water quality must be established with data-driven methods to support risk assessment and risk management decisions. Of particular interest is a better understanding of the contribution of water usage and piping materials to the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens. This article will help further efforts to evaluate these pathogenic risks, a critical need as drinking water regulations have primarily focused on exposure through ingestion.