Reading Room

June 13, 2024

In 2024, GSA is conducting water testing across many federal buildings to support the health and safety of those who work in and visit those buildings. This testing helps building managers maintain a healthy work environment.

Properly maintaining and testing a building’s water system supports building managers’ efforts to reduce the presence of heavy metals as well as conditions in which Legionella and other bacteria can grow. This is important for large buildings – like many GSA facilities – as well as buildings with unique features like decorative fountains or cooling towers. A program to manage water quality helps us understand where issues affecting quality might occur and how to fix any problems.