Legionella – Facts you may not know
Legionella – a topic that might not be top of mind for everyone, but it’s absolutely critical – Legionella testing. Most people are aware of the need to test for Legionella bacteria in water systems, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Let’s uncover some valuable insights and essential tips to keep your water safe and healthy.
Why Test for Legionella?
Legionella is a bacterium that can lurk in water systems, posing a risk to human health. Exposure to Legionella can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Testing is vital to ensure the safety of the water you use in your home, office, or facility.
How to Test for Legionella
Testing for Legionella involves several steps:
Temperature Check: Legionella thrives in warm water. Regularly check and maintain the temperature of your water heaters and plumbing systems to ensure they stay above 50°C.
Regular Flushing: Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for Legionella. Run taps, showers, and other outlets regularly to prevent water from standing for extended periods.
Descaling Taps and Showers: Legionella can hide in the limescale buildup on taps and showerheads. Regularly descaling these fixtures with appropriate cleaning agents is essential to prevent Legionella growth.
Water Sampling: Periodically collect water samples for laboratory analysis. This is the most accurate way to detect Legionella in your water system.
Descaling for Legionella Prevention
Descaling taps and showers might seem like a minor task, but it’s a crucial part of Legionella prevention. Limescale buildup not only creates an ideal environment for Legionella but also reduces water flow and can lead to increased energy consumption. By descaling regularly, you maintain water quality and efficiency simultaneously.
Did you know this?
Biofilm Hideout: Legionella often hides in biofilms – slimy layers on the surface of pipes and water fixtures. These biofilms provide a protective environment where Legionella can thrive.
Legal Obligation: In many countries, including the UK, there are strict regulations requiring the testing and control of Legionella in water systems. Non-compliance can result in significant fines and legal repercussions.
Mist Machines: Legionella can be aerosolized in the form of water droplets, making mist machines, air conditioning units, and even decorative fountains potential sources of Legionella contamination.
What can happen if Legionella testing is not taken seriously?
Failing to conduct proper Legionella testing can lead to severe consequences. Legionnaires’ disease is a life-threatening illness, and it can be particularly harmful to the elderly, the young, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Neglecting testing not only puts lives at risk but can also result in significant financial and legal consequences.
Why Portland?
We understand the importance of Legionella testing and prevention. Our team is trained to conduct thorough Legionella testing to keep your water systems safe and compliant with regulations. Don’t leave your water quality to chance – let us ensure your peace of mind.
Contact us today if want to find out more:
Andy Carr, Facilities Manager
Phone: 01642 616616
Email: [email protected]
