What category of water is a toilet bowl classified under according to S500?

A toilet bowl is classified as Category 2 water according to the S500 standards. This classification is important because it helps technicians understand the potential risks associated with water damage and microbial growth.

Category 2 water is defined as "Gray Water," which is non-potable water that may contain a significant amount of contaminates and is considered to pose a threat to human health. Sources of Category 2 water can include washing machine overflow, toilet bowl overflow with urine (but not feces), or other discharges from sinks or bathtubs.

In the case of a toilet bowl, while the water may appear clean, it can still contain bacteria or other contaminants from the flushing process or from the surfaces of the toilet. This is why interventions for water remediation from toilet bowls require a higher level of safety precautions compared to Category 1 water, which is clean and safe, like water from a broken supply line.

By classifying toilet bowl water as Category 2, professionals are prompted to follow appropriate remediation protocols, ensuring that all health and safety measures are taken to protect those involved in the cleanup and restoration process.