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A Guide to Thermostatic Mixer Valve (TMV) Servicing in the Hospitality and Entertainment Industry

Introduction to TMVs

Thermostatic mixer valves (TMVs) are essential devices used across various hospitality and entertainment venues to precisely control water temperature. They blend hot and cold water to achieve a safe temperature range between 38°C and 46°C, crucial in preventing scalding, especially for vulnerable groups like young children or the elderly. TMVs ensure consistent water temperature delivery, thereby significantly reducing the risk of scalding incidents.

Impact on Legionella Control

Beyond preventing scalding, TMVs play a significant role in Legionella control within water systems. Legionella bacteria thrive in tepid water environments, making temperature management vital for prevention. While the ideal temperature for Legionella control is above 60°C, such high temperatures can cause scalding. TMVs provide a solution by blending water to a safe temperature. However, improper management can inadvertently create conditions conducive to Legionella growth. Thus, meticulous installation and maintenance of TMVs are crucial to managing both scalding and Legionella risks effectively.

Key Considerations for TMV Installation

  • When installing TMVs in hospitality and entertainment settings, several factors must be considered:
  • Integration with Tap Fittings: TMVs should ideally be integrated into tap fittings to ensure water is mixed at the outlet, minimizing the risk of Legionella growth.
  • Flow Rate Considerations: Installing TMVs on low flow spray taps can increase the risk of Legionella proliferation.
  • Proximity to Outlets: TMVs should be installed as close as possible (within 2 meters) to the outlet to reduce the volume of stagnant water in pipework, lowering the risk of Legionella contamination.
  • Single Outlet Usage: TMVs feeding multiple outlets, such as showers or washbasins, can elevate Legionella risk and should be avoided.
  • Flushing Protocols: TMVs may render cold taps underused, necessitating weekly flushing to prevent water stagnation and Legionella growth.

Where TMVs Should Be Installed

TMVs are particularly essential in areas with a high risk of scalding, such as baths, showers, and settings catering to vulnerable individuals like the young or elderly. Additionally, they are necessary in washbasins and sinks where a significant scalding risk is identified, such as in properties accommodating individuals with physical or mental disabilities. In healthcare facilities, including hospitals and healthcare centers, TMVs are mandatory to ensure patient safety.

Servicing Requirements

Regular servicing of TMVs is essential to maintain their effectiveness in preventing scalding incidents and controlling Legionella. Typically, TMVs should be checked annually, or as per the frequency determined by the risk assessment. However, in healthcare settings, more stringent regulations may apply, necessitating bi-annual checks to uphold the highest standards of water safety.

Differentiating Type 2 and Type 3 

Understanding the distinction between Type 2 and Type 3 TMVs is crucial:

  • Type 2: These can be adjusted by users and are suitable for domestic use or housing associations catering to able-bodied individuals. They comply with standards such as BS EN 1111 and/or BS EN 1287.
  • Type 3: These are fail-safe valves with preset temperatures and cannot be adjusted by users. They adhere to stringent healthcare standards, such as those outlined in the NHS Estates Model Engineering Specification for healthcare premises.

TMVs are indispensable devices in the hospitality and entertainment industry for maintaining water safety, preventing scalding incidents, and controlling Legionella growth. By adhering to proper installation, maintenance, and servicing protocols, these establishments can ensure the consistent delivery of water at safe temperatures, safeguarding the well-being of their guests and patrons.

Contact Us Today!

Do you have any questions or need a quotation? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly sales team today. Give us a call at 01454 417 920 or email us at sales@dantek.co.uk. You can also visit our website at http://www.dantek.co.uk for further details.

Water Systems in Entertainment and Recreational Facilities: Introducing Chlorine Dioxide

Dantek provides effective solutions for maintaining clean and safe water systems in entertainment and recreational facilities, including leisure centres and theme parks. Controlling Legionella in water systems is crucial to protect the health and well-being of visitors, staff, and operators. While temperature control is often the primary method, situations may arise where it is not feasible to control the risk with this method. In these situations, chlorine dioxide is a highly effective means of control that can be used to make water systems safe to use once again.

The Importance of Chlorine Dioxide Dosage

Chlorine dioxide dosage has proven to be an extremely effective tool in combating Legionella growth and ensuring water system safety. It eliminates Legionella bacteria, prevents their multiplication, and minimizes the risk of Legionnaires’ disease transmission. In cases where temperature control is challenging or not an option, chlorine dioxide dosage provides a practical and effective solution. In addition to its bactericidal properties, chlorine dioxide also possesses the capability to remove biofilm, a slimy layer formed by microorganisms that can attach to the inner surfaces of pipes, tanks, and other components within water systems. It provides a protective environment for Legionella bacteria to thrive and multiply, making biofilm control crucial in Legionella management.

Important Considerations for Legionella Control

Before installing a CLO2 unit, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive review of the water risk assessment and the existing control regime. This review helps identify potential areas of concern and determines the appropriate dosage requirements for effective Legionella control. In cases where control is lost, certain initial steps should be taken, such as reviewing the number and locations of samples taken and assessing the percentage of failures in the sampling process. It is particularly important to focus on water systems where the treatment regime, including factors like temperature and disinfectant concentrations, is not consistently achieving the desired control levels. Alongside the thorough review of the system and treatment regimes, frequent testing should be carried out, ideally on a weekly basis, to provide early warning signs of control loss. Once the system is successfully brought back under control, as evidenced by monitoring results, it is advisable to reassess the frequency of testing.

Implementing Regular Legionella Testing

While chlorine dioxide dosage is an effective control measure, it should be complemented with regular Legionella testing. Legionella testing serves as an interim safety check until a viable control solution, such as chlorine dioxide dosage, is fully implemented. Regular testing helps monitor the effectiveness of the control measures and ensures the ongoing safety of the water system.

Proven Effectiveness in Legionella Control

Chlorine dioxide dosage has established itself as a highly effective solution for controlling Legionella in domestic water systems. Its implementation significantly reduces the risk of Legionella contamination, providing reassurance to facility owners and operators. The benefits of using chlorine dioxide dosage for Legionella control are numerous:

  • Reduced Chemical Handling Issues: Chlorine dioxide is derived from relatively safe precursor chemicals, such as CDA (Chlorine Dioxide Activator) and CDB (Chlorine Dioxide Base). These are weak solutions of acid and salt, making them easy to handle and minimizing chemical handling concerns.
  • Enhanced Oxidative Power: Chlorine dioxide possesses approximately 2.6 times the oxidative power of chlorine. This increased potency enables it to effectively kill Legionella bacteria within drinking water limits.
  • Biofilm Removal: The ability to remove biofilm, a slimy layer that provides a habitat for Legionella bacteria. By eliminating biofilm, chlorine dioxide disrupts the conditions conducive to Legionella growth, further enhancing the efficacy of Legionella control measures.
  • On-Site Testing and Safety Verification: Easy to test for on-site. This enables swift verification of safety through a simple on-site test, providing timely feedback on the effectiveness of Legionella control efforts.
  • Compliance with Standards: The chemicals used for generation, CDA and CDB, comply with BS EN 1278 standards. This compliance ensures that effective levels of chlorine dioxide can be continuously dosed into drinking water supplies, meeting the necessary regulatory requirements.
  • Low Ongoing Chemical Costs: CDA and CDB efficiently treat a large volume of water, resulting in cost-effective Legionella control. This helps minimize ongoing chemical expenses associated with maintaining water system safety.
  • High-Quality Equipment Installation: Dantek provides chlorine dioxide solutions and installs top-of-the-range equipment to ensure the generation of the purest chlorine dioxide. This minimizes the production of by-products like chlorite and chlorate, further enhancing the safety and quality of the treated water.

By leveraging these benefits, chlorine dioxide dosage proves to be a reliable and efficient approach to Legionella control, offering peace of mind to those responsible for the safety of water systems.

Flexible Application

Dosage can be applied in various water system configurations, making it adaptable to different entertainment and recreational settings. Whether it is a small leisure centre or a large theme park, chlorine dioxide dosage can be tailored to suit specific requirements.

Continuous Protection

Once the dosage is implemented, it provides continuous protection against Legionella growth. By regularly dosing the water system with chlorine dioxide, the risk of Legionella multiplication is effectively minimized, ensuring a safer water supply for visitors and staff.

System Overview and Installation

Dantek specialises in the installation of CLO2 units specifically designed to address problematic systems that have tested positive for Legionella. Our units are meticulously engineered to generate chlorine dioxide automatically, providing a reliable and uninterrupted disinfection process.

To ensure maximum effectiveness, our team of experts conducts a comprehensive site survey, carefully assessing the specific requirements of each installation. This survey helps determine the optimal location for the unit, taking into account factors such as water flow, system design, and accessibility.

We understand that every water system is unique, which is why we offer customisable installation options. These options include integrating pulsed water meters, delayed action ball valves, or CLO2 aqua cells. By incorporating these components, we enable precise dosage control, ensuring the accurate and uniform dispersion of chlorine dioxide throughout the water volume. This meticulous control over chemical dosage enhances the overall efficiency of the disinfection process.

We recognize the importance of correctly sizing the system and understanding the limitations of a chlorine dioxide installation. This is an area where other contractors often fall short. At Dantek, we prioritise accurate system sizing, ensuring that the chlorine dioxide unit is appropriately matched to the specific requirements of the water system. By doing so, we maximize the effectiveness of the installation and provide our clients with a solution tailored to their needs.

With our expertise and attention to detail, Dantek delivers reliable and efficient chlorine dioxide installations, addressing Legionella concerns effectively and preventing future occurrences.

Compliance and Safety Measures

Dantek is dedicated to upholding regulatory guidelines and industry best practices, prioritizing the safety and compliance of our  installations. Our proposed system strictly aligns with the recommendations set forth by the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), guaranteeing continuous monitoring of chlorine dioxide levels to remain below the maximum allowable limit.

To ensure the safety and accuracy of the chlorine dioxide dosage, our system incorporates reliable measuring cells that prevent overdosage. These high-quality measuring cells provide precise and real-time monitoring, allowing for immediate adjustments if necessary. By implementing this safety cut-off system, we prioritize the well-being of both the water system and its users. We handle all aspects of the installation process, providing the necessary materials and skilled labour to ensure a hassle-free experience for our clients.

Rental Units

To address immediate Legionella control issues, Dantek offers rental chlorine dioxide units that can be swiftly deployed to your entertainment or recreational facility. Renting eliminates the need for significant upfront capital expenses associated with purchasing and installing new equipment, allowing you to allocate your resources more efficiently while benefiting from effective Legionella control measures. Our rental units are designed to achieve and maintain legislative compliance, creating a safe and compliant environment for visitors and staff. Additionally, chlorine dioxide treatment can lead to reduced running costs, and our rental units generate chlorine dioxide of the highest purity for maximum effectiveness.

By implementing chlorine dioxide dosage as an effective Legionella control measure, entertainment and recreational facilities can ensure clean and safe water systems for visitors, staff, and operators. Dantek’s expertise in water hygiene and Legionella risk management, along with our tailored chlorine dioxide solutions and rental units, enables us to support the industry in maintaining Legionella-free water systems.

To learn more about our units and how they can benefit your facility, contact us today at 01454 417 920 or email sales@dantek.co.uk. Join the Legionella control conversation and follow #chlorinedioxide, #legionella, #watertreatment, #legionellacontrol, #teamdantek. Together, we can ensure the highest standards of water safety.

https://dantekenvironmental.co.uk/services/plant-equipment/chlorine-dioxide-units/

The Importance of Building System Cleaning and Disinfection – Hospitality

Tank cleaning and disinfection: Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, first gained notoriety in 1976 following an American Legion Conference in Philadelphia. Since then, it has remained a significant public health concern, particularly in buildings with intricate water systems. Legionella bacteria thrive in water sources, especially when conditions allow for their growth and dissemination. While Legionnaires’ disease cannot be transmitted from person to person, it poses a serious threat, especially to high-risk groups such as males over 45 years old, heavy smokers, alcoholics, and individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions like kidney disease or cancer.

Statistics suggest that Legionnaires’ disease affects thousands annually, with a significant portion linked to contaminated building water systems. Understanding the causation chain is crucial: Legionella must infiltrate a water system, proliferate under favourable conditions, disseminate in aerosol form, and ultimately be inhaled by susceptible individuals. Factors such as nutrient availability, temperature, and time play critical roles in facilitating Legionella growth and dissemination.

To mitigate the risk, effective cleaning and disinfection of hot and cold water systems are paramount. The Health and Safety Executive (HSG 274 p42) recommends controlling Legionella growth by keeping water systems clean and free from contaminants and corrosion, which can serve as nutrient sources for bacteria. Routine inspections and cleaning of water tanks become imperative, especially upon detecting debris or contamination, to ensure the health and safety of building occupants.

Different water systems require different approaches. Gravity tank-fed systems, frequent in commercial properties, often employ Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) tanks. These tanks, while durable, may deteriorate over time, manifesting issues like stress cracking or rusty bolts. Thorough inspection and maintenance protocols become essential in preserving the integrity of these systems.

Cleaning and disinfection methods vary, with chemical disinfection being a primary recommendation. Pre-disinfection may be warranted in certain scenarios, such as the presence of contaminants like dead organisms or pigeon excrement in the tank. Ensuring the thorough distribution of disinfectant to all outlets within the system, including showers and taps, is paramount to achieve comprehensive disinfection and mitigate risks effectively.

Understanding when to clean and disinfect tanks is equally crucial. Regular monitoring and risk assessments should prompt cleaning if the tank contains debris, sludge, scale, or traces of vermin. Tanks storing drinking water should undergo annual cleaning, and any alterations to the tank or pipework systems should prompt thorough disinfection to prevent contamination. Refer to page 26 of the HSG274 for easy to follow guidance https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Understanding the Varieties Found Within Buildings

Within the intricate framework of building infrastructure, water systems play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning of various operations. Understanding the diverse types of water systems found within buildings is crucial for effective maintenance and management.

Systems Fed Directly from the Mains:

These systems draw water directly from the public water supply, providing a convenient and reliable source of water for building occupants.

Gravity Tank-Fed Systems:

Gravity tank-fed systems involve tanks positioned above the outlets, typically located in attic spaces or dedicated tank rooms on the roof. In tall buildings or areas with insufficient mains pressure, gravity tanks ensure a steady flow of water by utilizing gravity to create pressure. Boosted water systems, which employ pumps to strengthen water pressure, are a common feature in gravity tank-fed setups.

GRP Tanks – Glass Reinforced Plastic:

Among the most frequent types of tanks found in commercial properties, GRP tanks boast durability and versatility.

Despite their durability, sectional GRP tanks may develop leaks after being drained and refilled. This occurs due to the water pressure inside the tank, which pushes the seals together. Leaks typically manifest at the mating face between the walls and base panels, requiring prompt attention to prevent water wastage and potential damage.

Managing Tank Deterioration:

Stress Cracking:

An increasing issue observed in Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) tanks is stress cracking. These cracks typically manifest internally on the lip of panels and signal the end of the tank’s life cycle. Stress cracking compromises the structural integrity of the tank, leading to potential leaks upon refilling. While tank lining may temporarily address small leaks, the ultimate solution lies in tank replacement to prevent further damage and ensure long-term reliability.

Rusty Bolts:

Rusty bolts within GRP tanks often indicate underlying issues stemming from incorrect installation practices or exposure to disinfectants like chlorine. Incorrect bolt usage, where galvanized bolts intended for dry external flanges are mistakenly used for wetted surfaces, can accelerate rust formation. Additionally, chlorine exposure during disinfection processes can rapidly corrode stainless steel bolts. Thorough rinsing of surfaces above the water line post-disinfection is crucial to mitigate corrosion risks.

Capacity and Design:

Understanding the capacity and design of tanks is fundamental for maintenance personnel. Generic terms like “50-gallon tanks” denote common domestic plastic tanks, which come in various designs, some easier to clean than others. Poorly fitting lids and insulation can exacerbate issues like airlocks, affecting the tank’s functionality. Ensuring accurate measurement of tank capacity and awareness of design nuances are crucial for effective maintenance planning and execution.

At Dantek, we specialize in all Legionella control services, including tank cleaning and disinfection tailored to the hospitality industry. For further inquiries or assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our sales team at 01454 417920 or via email at sales@dantek.co.uk.

https://dantekenvironmental.co.uk/services/water-hygiene/water-tank-cleaning/

 

 

 

 

The Importance of Annual Cold-Water Storage Tank Inspections

Annual inspections of cold-water storage tanks are not just a regulatory requirement but also a crucial aspect of maintaining water hygiene standards within your establishment. These inspections are vital to ensure both the structural integrity of the tank and the quality of the water it holds, particularly during warmer months when temperature control becomes paramount.

To adhere to these regulations, it is imperative to enlist the expertise of a trained Water Hygiene Technician. These technicians are equipped to thoroughly inspect the cold water storage tank, meticulously documenting its condition in the monitoring log book. Should any discrepancies be found, they follow established protocols, escalating issues as per the chain of command outlined in the control scheme, and executing remedial actions promptly to ensure the tank’s continued functionality within appropriate timelines.

During the inspection process, both the interior and exterior of the tank are inspected, along with the quality of the water it contains. Key points of assessment include ensuring a tightly fitting and undamaged lid, the presence of insect and vermin screens on overflow and warning pipes, proper lagging to maintain water temperature, absence of biofilm or stagnation signs on the water surface, and correct positioning of inlet and outlet to prevent stagnation.

At Dantek, we specialize in conducting comprehensive tank inspections at your hospitality site, whether as a one-time service or as part of a water hygiene monitoring contract. Our process is streamlined through our cloud-based electronic logging system, providing you with easy access to inspection outcomes and recommendations.

Here’s a glimpse of what our inspection entails:

  • External and internal condition documentation through photographs
  • Recording tank dimensions and insulation integrity
  • Verifying proper inlet-outlet positioning
  • Assessing lid tightness and overflow screen adequacy
  • Ensuring sufficient access for maintenance and cleaning
  • Checking operability of isolation valves and inlet valve condition
  • Monitoring water temperatures at different points
  • Evaluating sediment coverage at the base of the tank
  • Detecting the presence of biofilm and ensuring water clarity
  • Identifying any leaks or signs of leakage
  • Verifying correct labeling of the cold water storage tank
  • Providing detailed recommendations for further action, including clean and disinfection if necessary

Our goal is to not only meet regulatory requirements but also to safeguard the health and safety of your guests and staff by maintaining optimal water hygiene standards. Should our inspection reveal the need for clean and disinfection, we are prepared to provide you with a comprehensive quote for the required work.

Contact Us Today!

Do you have any questions or need a quotation? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly sales team today. Give us a call at 01454 417 920 or email at sales@dantek.co.uk. You can also visit our website at www.dantek.co.uk for further details.

Determining Fair Pricing for Legionella Risk Assessments in the Hospitality Industry

Maintaining compliance while upholding quality and service standards remains paramount for businesses in the hospitality sector. Whether you’re managing a hotel, restaurant, or any other establishment, ensuring Legionella risk assessments are conducted at fair prices without compromising on efficacy is crucial. This blog aims to provide insights tailored to the hospitality industry, helping you make informed decisions when seeking Legionella risk assessment services.

A good starting point for finding reliable Legionella risk assessment providers is the Legionella Control Association (LCA) website. By browsing through the directory of approved contractors on the LCA website, you can identify reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent standards in Legionella bacteria control for water systems.

Legionella risk assessments typically involve consultancy services that require on-site visits and the subsequent generation of detailed reports. To obtain accurate pricing, contractors usually assess the time required to complete the assessment and generate the report. This assessment is based on a predetermined day rate, which varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the site and geographical location.

Several factors influence the cost of Legionella risk assessments:

Geographical Location: The location of your establishment affects travel time, which is factored into the overall cost. While choosing local contractors may be advantageous for single or nearby sites, opting for contractors from outside your area could lead to cost savings, especially for franchises and chains.

Complexity of Water Systems: The complexity of your water assets and systems impacts the duration of the assessment. Providing comprehensive information about your establishment, including system intricacies, enables contractors to provide accurate estimates. All water assets, from domestic systems to specialized equipment, should be included in the assessment.

Practical Outputs: Beyond ensuring compliance, Legionella risk assessments offer valuable insights into your water assets. Discussing practical outputs with suppliers, such as reporting formats for non-compliances, schematic drawings, electronic asset registers, and integration with existing building schematics, can enhance the utility of the assessment.

Understanding the estimated duration of the assessment and the quality of the resulting report is essential for hospitality businesses. Industry rates typically range from £350.00 to £600.00 per day for qualified Legionella risk assessors. Engaging in transparent discussions with suppliers regarding assessment duration fosters transparency and ensures alignment of expectations.

Whether your establishment is equipped with large plant items like calorifiers and tanks or operates without them, we offer comprehensive Legionella risk assessments tailored to your specific needs. Our surveys address the unique requirements of establishments of all sizes, ensuring thorough analysis and compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Our assessments are designed to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, including the Health and Safety Executive’s Legionella approved code of practice and guidance document ACoP L8 & HSG274.

Dantek’s Legionella Risk Assessment encompasses various critical components, including a full asset register, detailed system schematics, photographic documentation, and comprehensive recommendations for remedial and monitoring tasks. Our assessments are fully compliant with BS8580 standards, providing you with a thorough understanding of your water system’s risk profile and necessary actions for compliance.

Our team can also assist with the development and implementation of a Written Scheme of Control, essential for maintaining safe water systems on-site. Please refer to appendix 2.2, page 55, of the HSG274 part 2 for a summary of the requirements of a written scheme: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Additionally, we provide a Lite version of the Legionella Risk Assessment designed specifically for sites in the hospitality sector that do not have significant plant items. This streamlined assessment process is particularly valuable for locations with mains-fed systems, offering efficient compliance with regulatory standards while acknowledging the unique characteristics of every business.

By leveraging reputable resources and engaging in transparent discussions with suppliers, hospitality businesses can secure fair pricing for Legionella risk assessments without compromising on quality and compliance.

For further inquiries or assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our sales team at 01454 417920 or via email at sales@dantek.co.uk.

Managing and Maintaining Hot and Cold Water Systems

Hot and cold water systems are crucial for the smooth operation of establishments in the hospitality industry, including hotels, pubs, restaurants, and bars. From providing drinking water to facilitating washing and supporting various industrial activities, these systems play a fundamental role in ensuring the comfort and hygiene standards of your guests and staff. However, to maintain their functionality and safety, proper care and attention are imperative. One significant concern that hospitality businesses must address is the presence of legionella bacteria, which can pose serious health risks if allowed to proliferate in the water supply. If you ever have any problems or questions, just give us a call at 01454 417 920.

Ensuring Safe Cold-Water Systems

Cold water storage tanks

Cold water storage tanks play a vital role in supplying water throughout a building. An annual inspection of these tanks is necessary to assess their condition both internally and externally. During the inspection, attention should be paid to the tank’s lid, insect screens, thermal insulation, and the cleanliness of the water surface. Any faults or contamination should be promptly addressed through cleaning, disinfection, and necessary repairs. If you notice any cracks or damage, don’t hesitate to contact us at 01454 417 920 for assistance. Cracking in tanks is becoming a significant issue, but we’re here to help address any concerns.

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Inspect cold water storage tanks annually and perform any necessary remedial work.
  • Check tank water temperatures annually, especially during the summer months.
  • Monitor temperatures at sentinel taps monthly and take additional temperature readings quarterly.

Monitoring and Temperature Control:

Regular monitoring of cold water systems is essential to detect any deviations from safe operating parameters. Sentinel draw-off points, such as taps furthest and nearest to the supply or storage tank, should be monitored for temperature and disinfectant concentration. This helps ensure that water temperatures remain below 20°C within two minutes of running the cold tap, minimizing the risk of Legionella growth.

Flushing and Flow Management:

To prevent water stagnation in sections prone to inactivity, regular flushing of infrequently used outlets is recommended. Flushing these outlets for several minutes on a weekly basis can significantly reduce the risk of Legionella production. Additionally, maintaining a record of total cold water consumption over a typical day can help confirm adequate water flow through the system.

Temperature profiling

Temperature profiling is a useful tool for verifying that water distribution systems maintain safe temperatures throughout. By monitoring temperatures at representative points, such as sentinel taps and other outlets, a comprehensive temperature profile of the entire system can be created over time.

Hot Water Systems

In the hospitality industry, hot water systems require meticulous attention. Close attention should be given to the flow and return temperatures of the calorifier, and thermostat settings should be adjusted accordingly to maintain temperatures as close to 60 °C as possible. In non-circulating systems, specific points should be monitored to ensure that the temperature reaches a minimum of 50 °C within one minute. For circulating systems, temperature checks at various points are necessary to maintain a minimum temperature of 50 °C. Additionally, monitoring the temperature of other outlets helps establish a comprehensive temperature profile of the entire system over time.

Calorifiers

Calorifiers are crucial components of hot water systems, and their proper maintenance is essential for preventing Legionella contamination.

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Inspect calorifiers annually, internally, and externally, and clean them as necessary.
  • Purge any debris from the base of calorifiers and collect initial flush samples for inspection.
  • Check calorifier flow and return temperatures monthly to ensure they meet safety standards.

Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs):

TMVs play a necessary role in preventing scalding and maintaining safe water temperatures. Annual inspection, cleaning, and disinfection of TMVs are essential maintenance tasks to ensure their continued effectiveness.

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Assess the need for TMVs based on scalding risk and Legionella exposure.
  • Inspect, clean, and disinfect TMVs annually or as defined by the risk assessment.

Showers and Spray Taps:

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Dismantle, clean, and descale removable parts quarterly.

Expansion Vessels and Filters:

Flushing expansion vessels on a monthly to biannual basis helps maintain their effectiveness and prevent potential issues such as corrosion or bacterial growth.

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Flush expansion vessels monthly to biannually and replace bladders as needed.
  • Backwash and regenerate multiple-use filters according to manufacturer guidelines.

Point-of-Use (POU) Water Heaters:

Regular service actions, including cleaning, descaling, and temperature checks, are essential to maintain the performance of POU water heaters and prevent Legionella proliferation.

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Check water temperatures monthly to ensure heaters operate within the recommended range.
  • Clean and descale POU water heater components quarterly or as indicated by the risk assessment.

Infrequently Used Outlets HOT & COLD:

Implementing a flushing regime for infrequently used outlets, including weekly flushing and purging to drain, helps minimize the risk of microbial growth and ensures water quality remains high.

Hot and cold water systems checklist!

  • Consider removing infrequently used outlets and flush remaining outlets weekly to prevent water stagnation.

Monitoring and Documentation  ALL SYSTEMS:

  • Keep detailed records of all inspections, measurements, and maintenance actions
  • Adjust the frequency of maintenance tasks based on inspection findings and risk assessments.

Every establishment within the hospitality industry, whether it’s a hotel, pub, restaurant, or bar, will have unique setups and water systems, each requiring tailored maintenance schedules. It’s crucial to consult your legionella risk assessment for site-specific recommendations regarding advised maintenance frequencies.

If you need assistance with any Legionella maintenance tasks, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 01454 417 920 or e mail sales@dantek.co.uk.

Dantek’s Electronic Logbook for the Hospitality Industry

In the fast-paced and customer-centric world of the hospitality industry, where safety and satisfaction are paramount, effective Legionella compliance management is essential. Dantek’s electronic logbook has already proven its effectiveness in assisting privately owned restaurants, franchises, restaurant chains, public houses, and bars across the UK. In this blog, we’ll look into how our electronic logbook has delivered tangible results and benefits to our current hospitality customers.

Unlocking Efficiency and Compliance with Dantek’s Electronic Logbook

Within your contracted services, Dantek offers an invaluable addition – our electronic logbook system. This powerful tool brings a multitude of benefits, enhancing your Legionella compliance management with streamlined reporting, simplified audits, and peace of mind. What’s even more appealing is that this electronic logbook system is available to you at no extra cost.

Our electronic logbook system is designed for ease of use and accessibility. Accessible from any internet-enabled device via a link on our website homepage, it provides real-time visibility into our performance and the compliance data generated during site visits.

Key System Benefits

Here are some of the key advantages our electronic logbook system offers:

  • Real-Time Access: All stakeholders can access compliance data in real time from any internet-enabled device.
  • Document Storage: Store risk assessments and sample certificate documentation for each premise, ensuring documents are always at your fingertips.
  • Automated Evaluation: Automatically assess asset data collected during visits, such as temperature readings, showerhead cleaning records, or tank inspections, generating compliance reports instantly.
  • Effortless Reporting: Download all reports as Excel files for easy distribution and evaluation.
  • Escalation Procedures: The system includes an automatic escalation procedure for recurring non-compliances, ensuring prompt action.
  • Data Security: Your data is secure and regularly backed up, providing peace of mind.
  • Remote Auditing: Conduct audits remotely, improving efficiency and reducing on-site requirements.
  • Error Elimination: Data is collected directly into the system, minimizing errors associated with manual entry.
  • Proven Performance: The system boasts a successful track record.
  • Alerts and Notifications: Set up automatic non-compliance alerts to designated email addresses for quick response.

By adopting our electronic logbook system, you not only reduce risk and save time but also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient operation. Say goodbye to the hassle of physical paperwork and embrace a modern, eco-friendly solution that enhances your Legionella compliance management.

Proven Success with Hospitality Establishments

Dantek’s electronic logbook has earned the trust of numerous hospitality establishments, including privately owned restaurants, franchises, restaurant chains, public houses, and bars throughout the nation. These hospitality leaders have experienced firsthand the transformative power of our logbook in their Legionella compliance management efforts.

Streamlined Compliance Monitoring

Consider a restaurant chain with multiple locations across the country. Following the implementation of Dantek’s electronic logbook, they witnessed a remarkable transformation. Real-time access to compliance data allowed them to effortlessly monitor the compliance status of each restaurant.

Dantek’s electronic logbook offers a proactive approach that benefits hospitality establishments of all sizes. With our system in place, you can efficiently identify and address non-compliances and defects as they occur, ensuring the seamless operation of your establishment and upholding the safety of your patrons.

Effortless and Secure Document Management for All Hospitality Establishments

Join our satisfied hospitality customers today and experience the benefits of our proven electronic logbook. When you partner with Dantek, you gain access to a time-tested solution that delivers results and enhances safety, all while enjoying the added value of our exceptional service and support.

Contact us now at 01454 417920 or email sales@dantek.co.uk to discuss how we can assist you in safeguarding the well-being of your patrons and staff through our specialized expertise. Let us demonstrate how Dantek can be the ideal partner for your compliance needs in the dynamic and demanding hospitality industry. https://dantekenvironmental.co.uk/danteks-innovative-electronic-log-book/

Understanding and managing legionella risk – Hospitality

Welcome to our new blog series where we delve into the critical topic of Legionella control in the hospitality industry. Over the next quarter, we’ll be focusing on how Dantek caters to privately owned hotels, restaurants, and nationwide chains, ensuring peace of mind and offering practical advice for effective Legionella risk management.

At Dantek, we specialize in water hygiene and water treatment services, serving a wide range of organizations across Bristol, the South West, South Wales, and the Midlands. With a keen emphasis on prevention and control of Legionnaires’ disease, we begin our journey with you by conducting a comprehensive Legionella risk assessment, ensuring compliance with ACoP L8 and HSG274 standards.

As proud full members of the Legionella Control Association since 2007, our commitment to preventing and controlling Legionnaires’ disease is unwavering. With our innovative cloud-based electronic logbook, you’ll have real-time visibility of monitoring contracts, allowing you to stay informed day or night.

Established in 2000 by Dan Collins and Amy Richardson, we boast a team of dedicated professionals with extensive experience in water hygiene. Our field-based technicians, risk assessors, and engineers are fully trained and equipped to handle the complexities of Legionella risk management in the hospitality sector.

Understanding the unique challenges faced by hotels, bars, and restaurants, we’re here to provide practical insights into handling Legionella risk effectively. From appointing responsible persons to implementing control measures and maintaining meticulous records, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.

Whether you operate a large establishment with complex water systems or a smaller venue with mains-fed setups, our Legionella risk assessments are designed to ensure compliance with regulatory standards while addressing the nuances of your business.

As we start to explore Legionella control in the hospitality industry, it’s essential to understand the fundamental aspects of managing Legionella risk effectively. Let’s start by addressing some key points:

Who Handles Legionella Risk? Appointing competent individuals or teams, known as responsible persons, is imperative. Their role involves understanding water systems, identifying risks, and ensuring the safety of everyone on-site.

What to Look for in a Risk Assessment? During risk assessments, consider factors such as stagnant water, optimal temperatures for bacterial growth, conducive conditions like rust or sludge, and potential aerosolization of water droplets.

How to Assess the Risk Practically? Conducting thorough checks of water systems is essential. This includes clarifying responsibilities, ensuring personnel competency, having clear system diagrams, identifying risks, determining control measures, scheduling monitoring and maintenance, and establishing review timelines.

Control Measures Implementing various measures such as controlling water sprays, maintaining water flow to prevent stagnation, utilizing materials resistant to bacterial growth, water treatment, and regular temperature monitoring are vital steps in mitigating Legionella risk.

Keeping Records Maintaining meticulous records is crucial for managing Legionella risk effectively. Record-keeping should encompass activities, findings of risk assessments, action plans, water system conditions, and test results.

Whether your establishment is equipped with large plant items like calorifiers and tanks or operates without them, we offer comprehensive Legionella risk assessments tailored to your specific needs. Our surveys address the unique requirements of establishments of all sizes, ensuring thorough analysis and compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Our assessments are designed to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, including the Health and Safety Executive’s Legionella approved code of practice and guidance document ACoP L8 & HSG274.

Dantek’s Legionella risk assessment encompasses various critical components, including a full asset register, detailed system schematics, photographic documentation, and comprehensive recommendations for remedial and monitoring tasks. Our assessments are fully compliant with BS8580 standards, providing you with a thorough understanding of your water system’s risk profile and necessary actions for compliance.

Our team can also assist with the development and implementation of a Written Scheme of Control, essential for maintaining safe water systems on-site. Please refer to appendix 2.2, page 55, of the HSG274 part 2 for a summary of the requirements of a written scheme: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Additionally, we provide a Lite version of the Legionella risk assessment designed specifically for sites in the hospitality sector that do not have significant plant items. This streamlined assessment process is particularly valuable for locations with mains-fed systems, offering efficient compliance with regulatory standards while acknowledging the unique characteristics of every business.

For personalized assistance and expert guidance in Legionella risk management, contact Dantek at 01454 417 920 or email us at sales@dantek.co.uk.

Legionella Risk Management During School Holidays

Educational settings, from schools to universities, are tasked with ensuring the safety and well-being of their students and staff year-round. One aspect of safety is Legionella risk management. The threat of Legionella bacteria proliferating in water systems during periods of reduced activity, such as end-of-term holidays, is a matter of concern. In this blog, we will explore Legionella risk management in educational settings, considering both inherent and operational factors, as well as preventive strategies during periods of low usage.

Understanding Legionella Risk

Legionella is a bacterium that thrives in warm, stagnant water. While the original design and setup of water systems in educational settings may incorporate industry best practices, during holiday breaks, many parts of the school, college or university may remain inactive, elevating the operational risk of Legionella contamination.

Effective Legionella Risk Management

Prevent Stagnation: To prevent stagnation, water systems must ensure sufficient water turnover, particularly in areas with low usage. Stagnant water between 20-45°C creates ideal conditions for Legionella growth. Therefore, maintaining adequate temperature differentials is crucial.

Temperature Control: Cold water outlets should consistently be below 20°C, while hot water should be stored above 60°C or no less than 50°C at the outlet. This range helps inhibit bacterial growth.

HSG274 Guidelines: Educational institutions should refer to HSG274 Part 2, Paragraph 2.50 when creating risk mitigation strategies. This guidance is particularly relevant for buildings with intermittent or low usage, offering practical advice on managing them effectively. For detailed information, you can access the document via the following link: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Flushing Protocol: Throughout school holidays, when students and staff are away, and natural water circulation isn’t maintained within educational facilities, it is crucial to implement a flushing protocol during periods of reduced usage. This practice is essential for safe water management and to prevent stagnation. Outlets are now considered infrequently used and should be flushed at a minimum of once a week. However, the optimal flushing frequency may vary depending on the risk assessment for your specific school. Your flushing schedule might need to be as frequent as daily, especially if you have encountered Legionella issues in your school, college, or university. In such cases, we recommend consulting your contractor or contacting us at Dantek, where we can provide expert guidance and assistance.

Legionella Risk Assessment: Carrying out a thorough Legionella risk assessment is a crucial step in proactive Legionella management for educational settings. This assessment acts as a practical tool to pinpoint potential risks and assess how well the current control measures are working. It’s like a roadmap that helps schools, colleges, and universities customize their Legionella prevention strategies to fit their specific situation.

System Maintenance: Systems left unused for extended periods should undergo thorough flushing, cleaning, and disinfection according to British Standards before being recommissioned. This maintenance is essential to prevent potential issues associated with long periods of disuse.

Legionella risk management is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff in educational settings. Proper water system management, temperature control, and adherence to industry guidelines are essential components of a comprehensive Legionella risk management plan. By implementing these strategies, educational settings can reduce the risk of Legionella contamination and create a safe learning and working environments for all, especially during extended breaks when water systems are at their most vulnerable.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of our team on 01454 417 920 or e-mail sales@dantek.co.uk.

Electronic Logbook – Enhancing Legionella Compliance Management

Electronic Logbook: In educational settings, especially schools, colleges, and universities, the need for rigorous Legionella risk management is critical. Legionella bacteria can thrive in water systems, posing potential risks to students and staff. To effectively manage and monitor this risk, you need a comprehensive approach. Dantek’s electronic logbook is the solution that can simplify this process.

Going Digital: A Smarter Choice

In the vast, multi-building environment of educational settings, managing a paper-based water hygiene logbook can become a logistical nightmare. It’s time to consider switching to an electronic system. Several reputable providers offer this service, including us, which provides automatic asset register upload and real-time compliance following a Legionella risk assessment.

Here at Dantek, we set ourselves apart by providing a complimentary Electronic Logbook to all our contracted customers, a service that’s not commonly offered by other contractors.

Key Benefits of our Electronic Logbook

  • Real-Time Access: All stakeholders can access compliance data in real-time from any internet-enabled device.
  • Document Storage: Store risk assessments and sample certificate documentation for each building, ensuring documents are always at your fingertips.
  • Automated Evaluation: Algorithms automatically assess asset data collected during visits, generating compliance reports instantly.
  • Effortless Reporting: Download all reports as Excel files for easy distribution and evaluation.
  • Escalation Procedures: The system automatically evaluates asset data collected during visits, producing compliance reports instantly.
  • Data Security: Your data is secure and regularly backed up, providing peace of mind.
  • Remote Auditing: Conduct audits remotely, improving efficiency and reducing on-site requirements.
  • Error Elimination: Data is collected directly into the system, minimizing errors associated with manual entry.

Proven Success

Dantek’s Electronic Logbook system has gained significant traction within the education sector, with numerous schools, colleges, and universities adopting it. This system provides a streamlined solution for Legionella compliance management, contributing to the achievement and maintenance of compliance standards across a wide range of educational establishments.

Get Started Today

Feel free to reach out for a complimentary demonstration and discover the advantages of our Electronic Logbook system. You can explore further by visiting our website at https://dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/, or you can get in touch with our friendly team via phone at 01454 417920 or by emailing us at sales@dantek.co.uk.

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