I was about to respond to the original email until the most resent messages today from Monona Rossol and others.  So let me simply add:

The choice of language in the original post where it states, "The Lab designer has put two drinking fountains in the Lab..."  is ambiguous.  Nowhere is it mentioned that an architect is involved.  Check the blue prints to determine if the fountains are in the drawings and for an architect's stamp then you may have a case against the architect.  In my opinion, there really is not enough information to speculate what entity is responsible for the cost of removal. 

As others have said, the fountains should be removed.

Laurence Doemeny

We are in the process of building a new Lab and it is almost ready for occupation.

The Lab designer has put two drinking fountains in the Lab. I believe this is not allowed per OSHA’s Laboratory Standards, however, the discussion is that “there is minimum chance of chemical contamination” with these drinking fountains. I have requested the removal of these, but it would be costly at this point. I have two questions:

Are the drinking fountains allowed in the Lab area?

Is it OK to shut down the water source at this point and leave the fountains there?

I appreciate the expert opinions on this subject.

Michael Hojjatie, Ph.D.