Don’t Take a Holiday from Legionella Precautions
The Christmas period may seem like a time to relax Legionella precautions, but this is when consistent precautions remain critical. The cold weather can cause water temperatures to drop, creating an ideal environment for Legionella bacteria to grow. Therefore, it’s important to maintain regular water system checks and treatments even during the holidays.
Here at PTS, we have some tips for facility owners and business owners when closing for Christmas – let’s take a look at ways in which you can keep on top of legionella precautions over the winter period.
Winter Risks and Legionella Precautions
During winter, several factors heighten the risk of Legionella, including stagnant water in pipes and cold weather. To mitigate these risks, follow these Legionella precautions:
- Stagnant water: Buildings with reduced occupancy can lead to water stagnation in pipes, promoting bacterial growth. Regular flushing of the system is a key Legionella precaution.
- Cold weather: Legionella bacteria thrive in temperatures between 20°C and 45°C. Cold weather can cause water temperatures to fall within this range, especially in buildings with inadequate insulation. Regular monitoring of water temperatures is a crucial Legionella precaution.
The specific combination of remedial solutions depends on the unique hazards identified in a structure’s plumbing infrastructure. Areas of focus aim to optimise parameters like water temperature, turnover rate, and stagnation and disinfectant levels.
Pre-Closure Procedures - Legionella Precautions
Before closing your facility for the holidays, ensure to:
Hot water should be stored at least at 60°C and distributed so that it reaches each outlet at a minimum of 50°C. Cold water should be below 20°C. This is a critical Legionella precaution.
Ensure all water outlets (e.g., taps, showers) are flushed at least weekly to prevent water stagnation. This is a key Legionella precaution.
Ensure that any water treatment regimens are maintained.
During Closure Legionella Precautions
While your facility is closed:
If possible, completely isolate and drain water systems to prevent bacterial growth.
This will prevent freezing and potential Legionella growth.
This will prevent water stagnation.
If not in use, cooling towers should be drained and cleaned to prevent Legionella growth. This is a key Legionella precaution.
What Precautions Should I Take Before Re-opening?
Before resuming normal operations in January, be sure to:
- Test water temperatures at all outlets: Ensure hot water is at least 50°C and cold water is below 20°C
- Examine for biofilm or sediment deposits: These can provide nutrients for Legionella and increase the risk of growth.
- Inspect equipment like TMVs for faults: TMVs and faulty equipment can lead to unsafe water temperatures and increase the risk of Legionella. PTS can also take care of TMV installations for you – this is especially helpful for healthcare facilities or care homes over the winter period.
- Verify optimal disinfectant residuals: Regularly check and maintain the correct levels of disinfectant in your water systems.
Get Compliant Legionella Support from Pipe Testing Services
With extensive expertise maintaining protected water systems, Pipe Testing Services offers a range of services to help you manage your Legionella risk. Our services include legionella risk assessments, routine legionella monitoring, cleaning and disinfection, analytical services, and training. Don’t take a holiday from proactive Legionella control – contact PTS today!
Contact Us Today To Improve Legionella Control
Our mission revolves around delivering reputable services that ensure water systems’ safety and compliance. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or schedule a consultation. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist.
Phone: 01922 451646
Email: enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk
Address: Unit 27 Birchbrook Industrial Estate, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 0DJ
Don’t hesitate to get in contact – we are happy to answer any questions and provide guidance and solutions as Legionella Contractors. Call now to speak with one of our experts, or get an initial quote on remedial works.
FAQs
It’s recommended to flush all outlets at least weekly to prevent water stagnation. This helps to keep the water fresh and reduce the risk of Legionella growth.
Legionella bacteria thrive in temperatures between 20°C and 45°C. Therefore, it’s important to ensure your hot water is at least 50°C and cold water is below 20°C. Regular monitoring of water temperatures is a crucial Legionella precaution.
Yes, if your building will be unoccupied for an extended period, it’s recommended to completely isolate and drain water systems. This helps to prevent bacterial growth and is a key Legionella precaution.
It’s recommended to test water conditions before your building reopens and normal operations resume. This helps to ensure the water is safe and free from Legionella bacteria.
Yes, if not in use, cooling towers should be drained and cleaned to prevent Legionella growth.
You can schedule a disinfection cleaning by contacting us at 01922 451646 or enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk. Regular disinfection cleaning is a crucial part of maintaining safe water systems over the winter period.