Drinking Water Quality | Environmental Health & Safety | Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University is committed to ensuring that every person on campus has access to safe drinking water. In 2016, the University initiated a sampling and testing program to test drinking water quality.

University Health and Safety committee established a Drinking Water sub-committee to systematically assess the key parameters of drinking water quality in all buildings at Memorial and ensure that the intake of drinking water falls within the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality, published by Health Canada.

The sampling process includes:

first-draw - collection after the water has been stagnated for 6-24 hours; and
5 minute sample - collection after the water has been flowing for a period of five minutes.

A first-draw sample shows the highest possible concentrations of metals that are commonly found in stagnant drinking water. It is not representative of average human consumption, but it provides important information about the components of the plumbing system and helps to determine the need for additional sampling and remedial action.

Members of the University community are reminded that the best sources of drinking water are the chilled and filtered stations located throughout campus. Washrooms are not a recommended source of potable drinking water.

For more information on drinking water quality testing please contact Facilities Management at 709-864-7600 (Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm).

Latest Sample Results:

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2023

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2022

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2021

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2020

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2019

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2018

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2017

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2016

Drinking water Quality Testing Results - 2015