Legionella bacteria treatment involves various measures to control and eliminate the growth of Legionella bacteria in water systems. Legionella bacteria is responsible for causing Legionnaires disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Such bacteria thrive in warm water environments, such as cooling towers, hot water tanks, plumbing systems and other water systems.
At Water Hygiene Systems, our treatment process typically includes the following steps:
Risk Assessment:
A thorough risk assessment is essential to identify potential sources of Legionella growth in the water system. This involves inspecting the water infrastructure, identifying potential areas of stagnant water and evaluating the overall condition of the system.
Water Temperature Management:
Legionella bacteria grow best in temperatures between 20°C and 45°C. To inhibit bacterial growth, maintaining water temperatures outside of this range is crucial. In hot water systems, keeping the water above 60°C can help kill off Legionella bacteria. In cooling towers, efforts are made to keep water below 20°C.
Water Disinfection:
Disinfection is a critical aspect of Legionella control. Various methods can be used, including:
Chlorine Treatment – Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect water systems and kill Legionella bacteria. However, it is important to monitor chlorine levels carefully, as excessive chlorine can lead to harmful by-products and corrode plumbing materials.
Chlorine Dioxide – Chlorine dioxide is another effective disinfectant used to control Legionella, which is less corrosive than chlorine.
Copper-Silver Ionisation – This method involves the controlled release of copper and silver ions into the water, which can effectively kill Legionella bacteria.
UV Radiation – UV light treatment is also used to kill Legionella bacteria by disrupting the bacteria’s DNA to prevent it reproducing.
Mechanical Flushing:
Stagnant water in plumbing systems can promote Legionella growth. Regular mechanical flushing of water systems can help reduce the risk by ensuring that water does not remain stagnant for extended periods.
Water Filtration:
Water filtration removes particulates and organic matter that can serve as nutrients for Legionella bacteria to reduce potential growth.
Monitoring & Testing:
Regular monitoring and testing of water samples for the presence of Legionella bacteria is essential to ensure the effectiveness of any Legionella bacteria treatment plan. This will help identify any potential issues promptly.
Documentation & Compliance:
Keeping accurate records of Legionella bacteria treatment procedures, monitoring results and maintenance activities is crucial for regulatory compliance and ensuring the effectiveness of the Legionella water bacteria treatment plan.
Water Hygiene Services London
It’s important that Legionella bacteria treatment is carried out by trained professionals like Water Hygiene Systems based in London and High Wycombe, covering the South East of England. We understand the complexities of water systems and the risks associated with Legionella. Every water system is different and the likelihood is that each will require a customised treatment plan based on specific characteristics and usage patterns.
For more information about our Legionella bacteria treatment plans, get in touch with the team at Water Hygiene Systems today! You can reach a member of our friendly team by calling 01494 453 977.
