Category 3 Water (Black Water)

Definition

Category 3 water, known as "black water," is grossly contaminated and contains pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. This includes sewage, rising flood water from rivers or streams, ground surface water intrusion, and stagnant water that has begun to support microbial growth. Black water damage requires specialized personal protective equipment (PPE), removal of affected porous materials, and thorough sanitization of all surfaces.