What are the three categories of water damage defined by the IICRC?

The recognition of the three categories of water damage as defined by the IICRC is fundamental for effective water restoration practices. The IICRC categorizes water damage into Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3 based on the level of contamination and the potential risk to human health.

Category 1 refers to clean water sources, such as water from pipes or rainwater, which poses no significant threat to human health. This type of water can typically be dealt with quickly and efficiently without requiring extensive protective measures.

Category 2 denotes grey water, which includes water that may contain some level of contaminants, such as from washing machines or dishwashers. While not immediately threatening, exposure to grey water can still lead to discomfort or illness, necessitating more careful handling during remediation.

Category 3 represents black water, including highly contaminated water from sources like sewage or floodwater. This category poses serious health risks and requires specialized procedures for safe cleanup and disposal to protect occupants and restoration workers.

This categorical classification provides a standardized framework that assists professionals in assessing the situation and determining the necessary interventions based on the risks associated with each type of water damage.