Alert Memorandum: PBS Did Not Test Water Prior to Reopening GSA Child Care Centers Closed During the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the survey phase of our Audit of GSA’s Response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Assessment of Water Quality in GSA-Controlled Facilities, we learned that the Public Buildings Service (PBS) did not effectively test for water contamination prior to reopening GSA child care centers that were closed during the pandemic. Due to extended periods of limited or no occupancy, water in these facilities may have become stagnant, which presents a risk for elevated levels of hazardous contaminants like lead and copper metals and Legionella bacteria. Without proper testing, PBS cannot ensure that children or staff at the child care centers have access to safe drinking water.