Businesses located in an area where a boil water advisory or order has been issued, and that either serve the public or have employees working on-site, must immediately put in place alternate procedures to provide water service:
- Discontinue the use of tap water.
- Boiled water can be used. Water that is chemically disinfected in the facility is not allowed.
- Alternative sources of safe water must be provided for drinking, cooking, washing food or surfaces that come in contact with food, and for any other purpose that could result in water being ingested.
- The facility must be closed if alternative sources of safe water are unavailable.
Facilities licensed by Lane County Environmental Health
Licensed facilities should follow Oregon Health Authority’s Emergency Response Guidelines during a boil water advisory or order if tap water is biologically contaminated. When a boil water advisory or order is issued, a health inspector will contact the facility to ensure operations include appropriate alternative procedures.
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes that cannot be closed must contact Lane County Public Health for assistance with operations during a boil water advisory or order. Critical facilities should immediately implement Emergency Response Guidelines for licensed facilities until a health inspector arrives.
For more information about Lane County Environmental Health requirements for commercial, industrial, and institutional customers, call (541) 682-4480 during business hours or (541) 682-4041 after hours.