NSF International, a global public health organization, and ASHRAE have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) dedicated to protecting public health by establishing safe management practices for building water systems. These systems include cooling towers, air conditioning units for large buildings, hot tubs, large complex water systems and decorative fountains, which can all be attributed to public health concerns such as Legionella.
Under the terms of the MOU, NSF International will partner its water industry expertise with ASHRAE’s knowledge of building systems to jointly develop NSF 444: Prevention of Injury and Disease Associated with Building Water Systems.
“This MOU represents a commitment by both ASHRAE and NSF International to enhance our working relationship and emphasize the importance of managing safe, quality building water systems,” said ASHRAE president Tim Wentz. “We hope to increase industry attention on this emerging public health issue and, ultimately, improve awareness and understanding.”
