Which type of building is required to have two water mains?

A hospital is required to have two water mains to ensure a reliable and continuous supply of water for both patient care and the operation of essential services. This redundancy is critical in healthcare facilities, where any interruption in water supply can directly impact patient safety and hospital operations. One water main can serve routine functions, while the other can act as a backup in case of maintenance, failure, or emergencies.

In contrast, other types of buildings such as schools, offices, or residential properties typically do not have the same level of critical need for redundant systems in their water supply. These structures may manage well with a single water main, as interruptions are less likely to have immediate life-threatening consequences. In summary, the requirement for two water mains in hospitals is a precautionary measure to ensure uninterrupted water access in a high-stakes environment.