Reduce The Threat Of This Harmful Bacteria
Regular testing and optimum water storage techniques will help to eradicate the risk of deadly bacteria to your water supply.
Legionella bacteria is present in manmade water sources such as water tanks, heating systems and swimming pools, as well as being found in natural water sources. Whilst legionella is present in up to 13% of water samples, it can be extremely dangerous as it leads to a condition known as Legionnaire’s Disease which can be life-threatening. Owners and operators of buildings and commercial premises are required by law to have regular legionella assessments carried out to determine the risk of legionella being present. Find out more about how you can control the risk of this bacteria being found!
Regular Testing
The best way to control the risk of legionella is to ensure that you meet your compliance responsibilities set out in the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations by having regular legionella assessments carried out. Water samples will be taken, and if the bacteria is found to be present, then you’ll be presented with a plan of action to remove the threat. In order to fully prove that you’re in control of the risk of legionella, you’ll need to prove that you have a dedicated person appointed to manage any equipment which is deemed to be a legionella risk. You should also keep detailed documentation to support your legionella monitoring programme.
Alongside testing and compliance though, there are some physical steps you can take as part of your ongoing legionella control strategy.
Controlling The Water Temperature
As a bacterium, legionella thrives in certain conditions so it’s important to discourage its development by providing a hostile environment. Water temperature should be manipulated by ensuring that hot water storage cylinders keeps water at an absolute minimum of 60C. However, when it comes to water distribution, this should occur at temperatures of at least 50C. At the other end of the scale, cold water needs to be both held and distributed at less than 20C.
The way in which the water is kept can also help to prevent the growth of legionella. As the bacteria is commonly found in stagnant water, it’s important to flush out any outlets that are used frequently on a weekly basis as well as carrying out descaling work quarterly. You should also remove any dead ends of pipe where legionella could be lurking.
A cold water storage tank should be cleaned frequently which must include draining the water out to check for signs of organic contamination as well as debris or corrosion.
Tank Cleaning
To strip your water tanks of hazardous bio-film which are known to harbour legionella bacteria, you can opt for a high level of tank cleaning which should only be carried out by regulated, professional members of the Legionella Control Association. This will include the most advanced disinfection techniques to create an optimum level of hygiene for your water supply which is also eco-friendly too! In some cases, it may be advised that you either refurbish your water tanks, by providing them with a new internal lining, or else replace the unit entirely.
Legionella is a risk that should be taken seriously, so begin by booking in for an assessment to receive personalised guidance about the threat of this bacteria to your water supply.
