Non-Potable Water Systems and Legionella Control in the UK
Non-potable water systems are a crucial component of many UK industries. These systems supply water for industrial processes, cooling, irrigation, and more, but are not intended for drinking or human consumption.
However, despite not being consumed, non-potable water systems must be carefully managed to prevent the spread of Legionella, a bacteria that can thrive in certain conditions and pose serious health risks through airborne water droplets.
This guide will explore the significance of non-potable water systems in various industries, the potential risks of Legionella, and how expert Legionella contractors, like Pipe Testing Services (PTS), provide the essential services needed to keep these systems safe and compliant.
Rely on our non-potable water system specialists to provide you with proactive, expert solutions for effective Legionella control and water safety. With a commitment to precision and industry-leading practices, we’ll help safeguard your facility, ensuring all water systems remain safe, efficient, and compliant. Contact us today to discuss how we can protect the integrity of your water infrastructure.
What Are Non-Potable Water Systems?
Non-potable water systems distribute water that is unsuitable for drinking or personal use but valuable for a variety of other applications, including:
- Industrial processes – used in manufacturing or production without impacting product quality.
- Cooling systems – for machinery, preventing overheating.
- Irrigation – for watering landscapes or agriculture.
- Toilet flushing – reducing potable water use in large facilities.
- Fire suppression systems – such as sprinklers and fire hydrants.
- Equipment cleaning – for washing down machinery where drinking water quality is unnecessary.
Because these systems can cover extensive infrastructure and vary widely in design and function, they require specialised maintenance to prevent issues like Legionella contamination.
The Risk of Legionella in Non-Potable Water Systems
Legionella is a naturally occurring bacterium that, under the right conditions, can grow rapidly and pose significant health risks. In non-potable systems, several factors can promote Legionella growth:
- Temperature: Legionella thrives in temperatures between 20-45°C, a range commonly found in cooling and industrial systems.
- Stagnation: Infrequent use can lead to stagnant water, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria.
- Nutrients: Industrial processes may introduce nutrients that foster bacterial growth.
- Aerosols: Many non-potable systems produce fine water droplets, like cooling towers and fire suppression systems, which can spread Legionella into the air and increase risk of exposure.
The Role of Legionella Contractors in Managing Non-Potable Systems
To protect employees, customers, and facility users, it’s essential to implement effective Legionella control in non-potable systems. Legionella contractors, like us at Pipe Testing Services, provide a comprehensive range of services designed to manage these risks effectively.
Key Services for Legionella Control in Non-Potable Systems
Risk Assessments
A thorough risk assessment is the foundation of effective Legionella management. Legionella contractors inspect non-potable water systems to identify areas where bacteria are likely to grow, noting factors like temperature, system design, and water flow.
System Design Consultation
Contractors advise on system design, such as avoiding “dead legs” (sections of pipe where water can become trapped), ensuring a steady flow of water, and implementing other design features that reduce the likelihood of Legionella growth.
Water Treatment
Non-potable water systems require tailored treatment plans, including biocides and other chemicals, to control Legionella without impacting industrial processes. Treatment methods for non-potable systems can be more aggressive than those used in potable systems since human consumption isn’t a factor.
Monitoring and Testing
Regular sampling and analysis for Legionella bacteria and other pathogens are essential. Contractors can help you establish a testing schedule and ensure samples are taken from appropriate locations within your system.
Cleaning and Disinfection
Specialised cleaning and disinfection, including tank cleaning and pipework flushing, help maintain water safety. Legionella contractors bring experience in handling non-potable systems safely, ensuring thorough cleaning that minimises contamination risk.
Staff Training
In industrial and facility settings, educating facility managers and maintenance teams on the unique risks of non-potable systems is crucial. Contractors provide training so that staff are aware of best practices, legal requirements, and the specifics of your site’s Legionella management plan.
Compliance with UK Regulations for Non-Potable Water Systems
Even though non-potable systems are not for drinking, they are still subject to regulations to protect health and safety:
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: Duty holders must ensure safe water systems for employees.
- The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002: Mandates risk management for any hazardous substance, including Legionella.
- HSE Approved Code of Practice L8 (ACoP L8): This guide sets out best practices for Legionella control in all water systems, including non-potable.
- BS 8525-1:2010: Covers the design, installation, and maintenance of greywater systems, a common type of non-potable system.
Following these guidelines, contractors like PTS help clients stay compliant and protect health by conducting risk assessments, implementing control measures, and keeping detailed records
Maintenance Differences Between Non-Potable and Potable Water Systems
While both types of systems require regular maintenance, non-potable systems have unique needs. Maintenance for non-potable water systems generally includes:
- Inspecting and cleaning storage tanks regularly to prevent biofilm and sludge build-up.
- Adjusting water treatment chemicals to manage Legionella growth and scale formation.
- Flushing low-flow or stagnant areas to prevent bacterial growth.
- Maintaining backflow prevention devices to avoid cross-contamination with potable systems.
- Labelling non-potable systems clearly to prevent accidental use as drinking water.
Potable water systems, by contrast, have stricter standards to ensure drinking safety, including more frequent disinfection and testing for broader contaminants.
Non-Potable Water System Applications in Industry
Non-potable water is essential in many industrial settings, helping conserve potable water and reduce costs. Key applications include:
- Cooling Towers: Widely used for heat rejection, which often requires extensive bacterial control measures.
- Process Water: Used in production processes where drinking water quality isn’t necessary.
- Fire Suppression: In many industrial settings, sprinkler systems use non-potable water to conserve drinking water supplies.
- Equipment Cleaning: Water is used for washing down machinery, especially in industries like construction and agriculture.
Contact Pipe Testing Services Today
For exceptional pipe testing and Legionella contractor services, reach out to Pipe Testing Services using the contact information below:
Contact Pipe Testing Services Today
- Phone: 01922 451646
- Email: enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk
- Address: Unit 27 Birchbrook Industrial Estate, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 0DJ
Our dedicated team at Pipe Testing Services is ready to help you manage your non-potable water systems safely and effectively. Contact us today for a personalised consultation and a quote that ensures the safety and compliance of your water systems.
Non-potable water systems - FAQs
Why is Legionella a risk in non-potable water systems?
Non-potable systems often operate at temperatures ideal for Legionella growth, and stagnant water or nutrient-rich environments can exacerbate the risk, especially in industrial settings.
How can Legionella contractors help manage non-potable systems?
Contractors conduct risk assessments, implement tailored water treatments, perform regular testing, and provide system cleaning, ensuring your system remains safe and compliant.
What regulations apply to non-potable water systems in the UK?
UK regulations include the Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH, ACoP L8 guidelines, and BS standards for greywater systems, all of which emphasise Legionella risk assessment and management.
Do non-potable systems require different maintenance than potable systems?
Yes. Non-potable systems focus on preventing bacterial growth and ensuring separation from potable systems, whereas potable systems must also maintain drinking water standards.
Is Legionella testing mandatory for non-potable systems?
While not always mandatory, regular Legionella testing is highly recommended for non-potable systems, especially those producing aerosols or operating within Legionella’s growth temperature range.
How does non-potable water use benefit industrial facilities?
It reduces potable water consumption, lowers operational costs, and improves sustainability without compromising the facility’s processes.
Can non-potable systems be used for potable water applications?
No, non-potable systems should never be used for drinking, cooking, or other human consumption. They must be clearly marked to prevent accidental use as potable water.
What are common applications of non-potable water in industry?
Industries use non-potable water for cooling towers, process water, equipment cleaning, fire suppression, and dust control in construction and mining.