Regulatory Reference3 states verified
Dental Waterline Regulations by State
Which states have written dental unit waterline testing into administrative rule, what each requires, and how the rest are enforced.
ReadComplianceState Reference
Washington Dental Waterline Requirements
Testing follows the dental equipment manufacturer's instructions, or quarterly where no instructions exist, with records retained for five years.
Published by LineTabUpdated Sources checked
What the cited provision requires
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Water quality standard | Water used for nonsurgical procedures must meet the EPA regulatory standard of 500 or fewer CFU/mL. |
| Testing frequency | Per the dental equipment manufacturer's instructions. Where no manufacturer instructions exist, test quarterly. |
| After plumbing work | Test five to ten days after repair or changes to the plumbing system, and again twenty-one to twenty-eight days later. |
| Sampling method | Lines for an operatory or dental unit may be pooled using equal volumes from up to ten lines, with the number documented, or tested individually. |
| Records | A log showing dates and the persons conducting testing or maintenance, or reports from an independent testing entity, retained for five years. |
Apply the requirement to your practice record
- List every unit and waterline, with the equipment instructions and required sample schedule.
- If pooling is permitted, record included lines, equal-volume collection, and the applicable limit on lines per sample.
- Keep the collector, dates, method, report, treatment, and any corrective-action and retest record together.
- Review plumbing or equipment changes for additional test triggers, and retain records for the required period.
Sources
- WAC 246-817-660Washington official legislative or administrative source · Last checked October 5, 2026
Requirements vary by state and by equipment manufacturer. Always follow your dental unit and treatment product instructions for use, and confirm current rules with your state dental board.