As you make plans to reopen your buildings and or businesses amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management (DWM) would like to remind you of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for “Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown or Reduced Operation.” The guidelines provide guidance for the safety and well-being of you and your customers.
 
During the pandemic DWM has remained committed to providing safe, high-quality drinking water to our customers. However, a temporary shutdown or reduced operation of a building can result in reductions in water use, creating hazards once occupants return.  According to the CDC, stagnant or standing water can cause conditions that increase the risk for growth and spread of Legionella and other bacteria. Stagnant water can also lead to low or undetectable levels of disinfectant, such as chlorine. When water is stagnant, the use of hot water temperatures ranging from (77–108°F, 25–42°C) can decrease Legionella growth.
 
There are eight steps you can take to prepare your water system after a temporary or prolonged shutdown to minimize the risk of Legionnaires’ disease and other water-related illnesses. This includes flushing hot and cold water lines, and cleaning all decorative water features such as fountains, pools, and artificial waterfalls. . For more information and the other measures, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/building-water-system.html. As you take the proper precautions to ensure the health and safety of your employees, patrons, tenants, etc., please keep in mind that this may increase water consumption, which may result in an increased water bill.