Safety

The first question people always ask when they learn about reclaimed water being used on public areas is: Is it safe? The answer to this question is a resounding, "Yes!"

In over 50 years of use throughout the world, there is not a single documented case of illness related to contact with reclaimed water or areas where it has been used. Reclaimed water is rated safe for contact, so even if someone were standing on a playing field when the sprinklers came on, there would be little to no risk. As with any type of turf area, children should wash their hands before eating or wash out cuts and scrapes with soap and water or a disinfectant. Picnicking on lawns irrigated with reclaimed water is perfectly safe, as is cooking on barbecues that are sprayed by sprinklers.

See our Links page for more information from scientists and water experts about the safety of reclaimed water.