The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) is seeking volunteers to participate on the new Technical Committee for the Construction Practices for Potable Water Guideline. IAPMO is looking for experts who fall under one of seven different types of interest categories: manufacturer, user, installer/maintainer, research/standards/testing laboratory, enforcing authority, consumer, or general interest. 

Systematic water management during construction of new buildings (including significant additions to the envelope of an existing building) can reduce the risk that the building water system begins its service life contaminated with pathogenic organisms such as Legionella pneumophila (the etiological agent responsible for most cases of Legionnaires' disease) and can reduce the risk of infections of contractors and others at or near the site during the construction process. This standard will outline a process for developing guidance for contractors and subcontractors installing and managing building water systems during construction.

"This guideline will play a crucial role in reducing the risk of waterborne disease and improving the well-being of building occupants," said IAPMO Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Christoph Lohr, P.E. "This focused guidance document is being created in order to establish the improved water systems baselines for occupancy."

Founded in 1926, IAPMO seeks to be a worldwide leader in the plumbing and mechanical industry through the protection of health and safety. IAPMO develops industry standards with a focus on plumbing products, solar heating systems and components, mechanical products (including heating, ventilation, cooling and refrigeration system products) and products used in the recreational vehicle and manufactured housing industries.

"Maintaining the water system is just as crucial during construction as it is when the building is at full or reduced capacity, or vacant," said Hugo Aguilar, P.E., IAPMO's senior vice president of Codes and Standards Development. "This manual will complement the published AWWA/IAPMO Construction Practices for Potable Water Guideline, as well as the AWWA/IAPMO Manual of Recommended Practice for: The Safe Closure and Reopening of Building Water Systems, which is being developed."

The deadline to apply is July 30. Anyone interested in serving on the new committee may complete the application online at https://forms.iapmo.org/iapmo/committee/app_cppw_committee.aspx.