Any water system, with the right environmental conditions, could be a source for legionella bacteria growth. 🦠
Legionnaires’ disease was first identified in the 1970s. Since then, industrial operations have become increasingly aware of the risks posed by Legionella bacteria. You must manage, control, and prevent any Legionella risks by identifying and assessing their sources. Additionally, ensure that a comprehensive Legionella Risk Assessment is conducted and that accurate records of the findings are maintained. Monitoring and control measures are vital in legionella prevention. At LMS we recognise the importance of having an effective management plan for your water system.
“For large estates, we typically find that 20%-30% of the water systems test positive for the presence of legionella. Often due to issues with having proper controls in place.”
– Our in-house Legionella Expert
Here are a few preventative measures organisations should take.
Control Water Temperature 💧🔍
If the control levels in the water treatment program (temperature or chemical concentrations) are not met, a thorough review and appropriate action are necessary. Conduct frequent Legionella testing, initially weekly, to ensure system control. Once under control, review the testing frequency.
- Store hot water above 140°F (60°C)
- Maintain circulating hot water above 120°F (49°C)
- Store and maintain circulating cold water below 77–113°F (25–45°C)
Flush Water Systems/Clean Water Systems
Flushing water outlets and keeping water systems clean are key for legionella prevention. Run showers and taps for at least 5 minutes after periods of non-use, such as after holidays or when a room is infrequently used. Keep shower heads and taps free of mold, algae, and limescale. Periodically clean tanks with chlorine solution and drain them to remove sediment and scale. Prevent water stagnation by shortening pipe lengths and removing unused pipework.
At LMS, we provide a bespoke plan outlining the frequency and requirements for flushing your water system.💦
Risk Analysis of Water System
A water risk assessment identifies the potential risks to the water supply and helps manage them. If required, this will include legionella risk management. Using your Legionella risk assessment and ongoing monitoring, evaluate the water systems usage to determine the appropriate extent of your flushing. Additionally, reducing stored water can help limit stagnation and minimise the risk of Legionella growth. When water storage reduction isn’t feasible, contemplate actively flushing or draining all systems as a preventive step, ensuring proper documentation in your written scheme of control. Implementing effective control measures can mitigate the risk of Legionella outbreaks. These measures include chemical dosing, disinfection, and ongoing maintenance to ensure safe water system operation.
Use Biocides 🧪
To prevent water system contamination, use biocides like chlorination. Chemical disinfectants, especially oxidizing agents such as chlorine, chlorine dioxide, chloramine, and ozone, are commonly employed to control Legionella. These disinfectants are used in both drinking water distribution systems and as secondary disinfectants within buildings.
Need a Water Treatment Provider to help? Choose Legionella Management Solutions.
Legionella Management Solutions offer comprehensive legionella management from start to finish, unlike many companies that only handle specific tasks like remedial work or risk assessments. We provide a full health report on your water system and legionella status by compiling and reviewing an LRA, as well as identifying key areas for remedial action. Our detailed, easy-to-understand reports are accessible remotely via the Collabit portal, where clients can view their work schedule, past reports, site logs, training records, non-conformances, and asset locations.
We prioritise customer satisfaction through effective communication and strong relationships, guiding clients through the complexities of legionella management and prevention – to ensure peace of mind. 🌎
Interested in seeing how it works? Give us a call and see for yourself! 020 8049 5494
