Who Does That?

Most of us don’t question the quality of our water that is seemingly everywhere in the lushest part of our state. We expect it to be safe to drink. And because of the work of Adam Jones in the Environmental Health and Safety department we know that to be true.

Jones is an industrial hygienist, testing anything potentially hazardous such as asbestos, mold or lead paint on the University of Oregon campuses in Eugene, Charleston, and Portland. Water testing is the most tangible to employees. Jones takes 500 to 1,000 samples per year from drinking fountains, kitchen sinks and residence halls, among the many sites.

Testing entails tagging fixtures so no one can use them, setting up the supplies, returning after at least six hours to collect water samples. The bottles are then analyzed by an accredited lab in Portland. Anything with levels that exceed Environmental Protection Agency limits for lead is retested following flush testing protocols. Jones troubleshoots to see if it is a problem between the plumbing and the faucet, with brass fittings common contributors to higher levels. Oftentimes the fixture needs to be replaced or an aerator added and that solves the issue. Occasionally the trouble is in the older pipes, which are usually hidden behind a wall or floor.

Jones has thousands of results in a database where he can monitor trends in specific buildings. The vast majority of results are in compliance with the US EPA Drinking Water Requirements for States and Public Water Systems. Various types of buildings are tested on different schedules with residence halls and childcare centers happening more frequently. New and reopened buildings are also assessed as buildings are returned to service.

He takes pride in his job that is meant to protect employees and keep them healthy. So the next time you fill up your water bottle with cool, refreshing H2O, remember Adam Jones made sure your water is safe.

—Jennifer Archer, University Communications