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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.

Water Hygiene in Educational Facilities

Water Hygiene in Educational Facilities: A Guide to Legionella Control

As the designated individual responsible for managing a School, College, or University, your top priority is the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the general public. A crucial element of ensuring their safety revolves around maintaining clean and safe water conditions, with a specific focus on controlling Legionella bacteria. This blog aims to underscore the significance of regular water hygiene monitoring and how it enables educational settings to promptly identify and address potential Legionella-related issues.

Understanding the Significance of Water Hygiene Monitoring:

Water hygiene monitoring plays a pivotal role in several aspects. Legionella bacteria are the causative agents behind Legionnaires’ disease. Regular monitoring facilitates the early detection of any potential Legionella presence, allowing immediate action to prevent their growth and spread. By addressing the issue promptly, educational settings not only protect the health of students and staff but also ensure compliance with relevant Health & Safety regulations. Schools, Colleges and Universities, with their diverse campuses and facilities, bear the responsibility of safeguarding the well-being of all individuals involved. For comprehensive guidance, we recommend consulting HSG274 Part 2: The control of Legionella bacteria in hot and cold-water systems. You can access the publication here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Understanding the Risks:

Legionella bacteria thrive in water systems with temperatures between 20°C and 45°C, making them particularly problematic in educational settings where warm water is frequently used. Classrooms, laboratories, hall of residence, and other water sources present an ideal environment for the growth and spread of Legionella. It is vital for educational institutions to comprehend the risks associated with Legionella and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.

Applying HSG274 Part 2:

HSG274 Part 2 is a comprehensive guide specifically tailored to the control of Legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems. This document provides valuable insights and practical advice for implementing effective water hygiene measures. Let’s explore some key recommendations from the guide that can help you maintain a safe environment: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Risk Assessments:

Regular risk assessments play a vital role in identifying potential sources of Legionella contamination, making them an essential practice. It is imperative to thoroughly evaluate all water systems present in your setting, ranging from storage tanks and plumbing to recreational water features. These assessments should be conducted by knowledgeable individuals who possess expertise in Legionella control to ensure accurate evaluation and effective management. (Please see our earlier blog for further details on Legionella Risk Assessments)

Water Treatment and Monitoring:

Develop a robust water treatment plan to prevent and control the growth of Legionella bacteria. This may involve implementing disinfection measures, such as chlorine or other appropriate biocides. Regular monitoring of water quality and temperature is essential to ensure that control measures are effective and maintained at the desired level.

Hot Water Systems:

Regular monitoring of temperatures is of utmost importance for effective Legionella control. Close attention should be given to the flow and return temperatures of the calorifier, and thermostat settings should be adjusted accordingly to maintain temperatures to 60 °C. In non-circulating and circulating systems, specific points should be monitored to ensure that the temperature reaches a minimum of 50 °C within one minute. Additionally, monitoring the temperature of other outlets helps establish a comprehensive temperature profile of the entire system over time. We recommend an additional 20% per month.

Cold Water Systems:

Frequent inspection of cold water storage tanks is essential to promptly identify and address any issues that could impact water quality. Regular cleaning and necessary repairs should be conducted as needed. Temperature checks at specific taps are crucial to ensure that the water temperature remains below 20 °C within two minutes of running the cold tap. Monitoring other outlets also contributes to creating a comprehensive temperature profile of the entire system. We recommend an additional 20% per month.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

Implementing consistent cleaning and maintenance protocols for all water systems is essential. It is crucial to regularly eliminate scale, sediment, and biofilm, as they create an environment conducive to Legionella growth. Proper maintenance of taps, sinks, and other water outlets is vital to prevent stagnation and ensure smooth water flow. Regular upkeep of showers and spray taps is particularly important to mitigate the risk of Legionella contamination. Cleaning and descaling removable parts, heads, inserts, and hoses should be carried out on a quarterly basis. In high-risk areas, more frequent maintenance may be required to ensure effective control.

Remember, Legionella control is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and commitment. By prioritizing the safety of students and staff, educational settings can create a secure environment where everyone can focus on learning and other activities with peace of mind.

Experts in Water Hygiene:

Our commitment lies in the prevention of Legionnaires’ disease through effective water hygiene management. With our specialized knowledge in the educational sector, we offer valuable support and guidance to control Legionella bacteria in a wide range of water systems. This includes classrooms, laboratories, hall of residence, and other facilities on campus. Our team is well aware of the importance of ensuring the well-being of students and staff, and we bring extensive experience in managing water systems across various Schools, Colleges and Universities.

Exceptional Service and Reliability:

At Dantek, we take pride in providing exceptional service and support to our customers in the educational sector. Our team of experts are extensively trained, ensuring that all work is completed efficiently, cost-effectively, and with minimal disruption to your operations. We prioritize quick response times and offer immediate answers to any questions or concerns you may have. Additionally, we understand the challenges that come with managing academic schedules and events, and we work closely with you to ensure our attendance is carefully managed to avoid any disruptions.

Our Expert Team is Here to Support You

Contact Us Now!

📞 Phone: 01454 417 920

📧 Email: sales@dantek.co.uk

Legionella Risk Assessment and Written Scheme Of Control

Legionella Risk Assessment and Written Scheme Of Control: As an educational institution, the safety and well-being of your students and staff are paramount. We understand the importance of ensuring a safe environment for learning and growth, and one significant aspect of this safety is guarding against Legionella susceptibility.

Understanding Legionellosis

Legionellosis is a potentially life-threatening illness caused by Legionella bacteria. Though precise figures for 2021 and 2022 are unavailable, the impact of COVID-19 distorted 2020 statistics, with 295 reported cases in the first ten months. The threat of Legionnaires’ disease is real and necessitates concrete action.

Assessing Susceptibility

An integral part of a Legionella Risk Assessment is evaluating the susceptibility of your institution’s population, which should be periodically reviewed. Factors influencing susceptibility include gender, age, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and underlying medical conditions such as cancer or organ transplants.

While we have little control over preventing Legionella from entering our water systems, contamination from minute traces in mains water and airborne droplets is virtually inevitable. From a risk analysis perspective, it’s essential to anticipate encountering Legionella at some point in your systems’ life cycle.

Key Risk Factors

  • Water temperature between 20–45 °C
  • Stored, stagnant, or re-circulated water
  • Presence of nutrients like sludge, scale, organic materials, and rust
  • Water fittings made of specific materials
  • Potential for aerosol generation
  • Number and susceptibility of your institution’s population
  • Management’s ability to control risk

Steps Involved in a Legionella Risk Assessment: Identification of Potential Hazards:

Legionella Risk assessments involve identifying potential sources of Legionella, such as water storage tanks, showers, Calorifiers, infrequently used outlets and cooling towers plus much more. This step helps create an inventory of potential hazards within your educational setting.

Evaluating Risk Factors:

Once potential hazards are identified, assessing the risk factors associated with each source of Legionella helps prioritize control measures. Factors like water temperature, how often the water is used, stagnation, and the presence of biofilms are considered during this evaluation.

Developing Control Measures:

Based on the risk assessment findings, tailored control measures can be developed. These may include regular monitoring and maintenance of water systems, implementing water treatment strategies, and ensuring appropriate cleaning and disinfection practices.

Monitoring and Reviewing:

Legionella Risk Assessments should be an ongoing process. Regular monitoring and review of control measures help ensure their effectiveness over time and enable timely adjustments if needed.

Once your educational setting has commenced the Legionella Risk Assessment process, it will be categorized on a scale, ranging from Low Risk to High Risk.

Risk Score

  • Low Risk
  • Low / Medium
  • Medium Risk
  • Medium / High
  • High Risk

The actual level of risk your setting faces from Legionella is denoted by its current risk score. It’s crucial to pay attention to the “action to be taken” to mitigate specific risks and evaluate the realistic score following remedial actions.

While completely eliminating Legionella from your educational setting may be an unattainable goal, you can effectively manage and control the risk, ensuring the safety of your staff and students.

All risk assessments are regarded as “working documents,” and as per current guidelines, a risk assessment must be carried out whenever the Approved Code of Practice L8 and guidance applies.

Understanding the Reassessment Process

What does this mean in practice? The front page of the Legionella Risk Assessment contains a resurvey date, initially determined by the risk assessor based on site-specific findings, resulting in a simple risk score categorized as high, medium, or low. Your resurvey date can range from 6 months to 5 years.

But it doesn’t stop there. Even if your Legionella Risk Assessment specifies a resurvey date 24 months from now, this may not be the final word. Simple amendments to the working document or significant changes within your setting can necessitate a new assessment.

For instance, if your school decides to convert the English block into an additional shower block for the expanding sports hall, a new assessment becomes essential. This is classified as “A change to any of the assessed water systems or its use.”

One of the primary challenges educational establishments face is understanding when and how to update their Legionella risk assessments. All risk assessments are considered “working documents” and must align with the Approved Code of Practice L8 and associated guidance. What this essentially means is that your Legionella Risk Assessment should be continually evolving to reflect the current state of your water systems.

  • Resurvey Dates Matter: The resurvey date on your Legionella Risk Assessment is initially determined by the risk assessor, based on site-specific findings. This date can range from 6 months to 5 years, depending on the assessed risk.
  • Changes Trigger Updates: Any significant changes to water systems, their use, or key personnel require a new assessment. For example, if your school decides to convert a math block into an additional shower block, this change necessitates a new assessment.
  • Monitoring and Reviews: Regular monitoring is crucial. If your control regime indicates problems like inadequate water temperature or changes in key personnel, a review becomes necessary.
  • Constant Vigilance: Always remember that a Legionella Risk Assessment is a live document, requiring regular attention and updates.
  • After 3 months, if calorifier 1 in the DT block fails to reach the required 60°C, and outlet temperatures fall within the primary growth range, a review is required.
  • Even a minor staff change, such as a shift in the statutory duty holder or site responsibilities, mandates a review.

Always keep in mind that the Legionella Risk Assessment is a dynamic “working document” and must consistently reflect your school, college or universities current status.

Top Tips
  1. Keep hot water hot.
  2. Keep cold water cold.
  3. Keep the water moving.
  4. Keep it clean.

Consider special measures during academic breaks, such as half-term and summer holidays, to prevent water stagnation that promotes Legionella growth. Develop plans for regular flushing of outlets that go unused during these periods.

Additional Resources: For further information, consult these valuable resources:

  1. Approved Code of Practice https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l8.htm
  2. HSE Website – Legal Updates & Outbreaks https://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/
  3. HSG274 Technical Guidance https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg274.htm
  4. Dantek – Advice, Services, and Training https://dantekenvironmental.co.uk/

What Our Legionella Risk Assessment Includes

  • Full Asset Register: We meticulously document all relevant assets, including taps, sentinel points, TMV valves, Expansion vessels, Calorifiers, and more. This asset register can be easily exported to an excel file and integrated into our electronic logbook system.
  • System Schematics: Our AutoCAD drawings provide detailed system schematics, highlighting key plant items, valves, loops, and outlet locations. Sentinel outlets are marked for easy identification.
  • Visual Documentation: We include full-colour photographs of assets to enhance understanding.
  • Condition Survey: Our assessment evaluates the current condition of systems, ensuring they adhere to hygienic standards set by the Water Fittings Regulations 1999.
  • Recommendations and Remedial Works: We provide comprehensive recommendations for remedial and monitoring tasks, complete with a risk score comparison before and after implementing these recommendations.
  • Schedule of Remedial Works: A detailed schedule, including pictures, simplifies the delegation of tasks to teams or external contractors.
  • Audit of Existing Records: We assess your existing records systems to ensure compliance with ACoP L8.
  • Guaranteed Compliance: Rest assured, all Dantek Legionella Risk Assessments are fully compliant with both the ACoP L8 and BS8580.

 Written Scheme of Control

When it comes to ensuring the safety of water systems within educational establishments, the Legionella Risk Assessment is just the beginning. One critical component that often arises during assessments is the need for a Written Scheme of Control. This document plays a pivotal role in preventing the growth and proliferation of Legionella bacteria, and Dantek is here to guide you through its creation.

Why a Written Scheme of Control?

A Written Scheme of Control is your roadmap to maintaining water systems that are free from Legionella contamination. During a Legionella Risk Assessment, our assessors may identify that such a scheme is absent. In such cases, it becomes the responsibility of the statutory duty holder and the responsible person to act swiftly.

Tailored to Your System

A well-crafted Written Scheme of Control should be tailored to the specific water systems covered by the Legionella Risk Assessment. It provides a clear framework for managing Legionella risks and outlines the roles and responsibilities of key management personnel and any chosen water hygiene contractors.

What Does It Include?

  1. Here’s what you can expect from a robust Written Scheme of Control:
  2. Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly defined roles for key personnel, ensuring everyone knows their part in Legionella risk management.
  3. Shutdown and Commissioning Procedures: Detailed instructions for safe shutdown and commissioning of water systems.
  4. Response to Faults and Emergencies: A plan outlining how your organization intends to respond in the event of faults or emergencies related to water systems.

Dantek’s Solution

We understand that creating a Written Scheme of Control can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we offer an optional extra to simplify the process. Our initial custom Written Scheme of Control template is a live document that provides easy-to-follow steps for managing Legionella risks on a site-specific basis.

Your Input Matters

While our template serves as a valuable starting point, it’s essential to emphasize that it may not be considered suitable or sufficient by enforcing authorities without your organization’s input and ownership. The document should reflect how your organization operates and manage the control scheme for Legionella risk.

Your Responsibility

Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the statutory duty holder and the responsible person to review the information in the document. You have the power to add or revise text to ensure it aligns accurately with your practices.

For a detailed overview of the requirements of a Written Scheme of Control, please refer to Appendix 2.2, page 55, of the HSG274 Part 2.

Dantek is committed to ensuring the safety of your educational establishment by not only conducting thorough Legionella Risk Assessments but also guiding you through the creation of a robust Written Scheme of Control.

With this comprehensive knowledge and the collaboration of Legionella experts, you can ensure your educational institution remains a safe place for learning and growth.

Our Expert Team is Here to Support You

Contact Us Now!

📞 Phone: 01454 417 920

📧 Email: sales@dantek.co.uk

Legionella risk assessment Lite survey – Retail

In today’s fast-paced retail industry, ensuring the safety and well-being of your customers and employees is paramount. From fast food restaurants to retail shops and franchises, maintaining a hygienic environment goes beyond just cleanliness. Water systems, often overlooked, can harbor potential health risks, particularly the growth of Legionella bacteria. To tackle this concern, Dantek introduces the Legionella Risk Assessment Lite – a game-changer for your retail spaces.

What is the Legionella Risk Assessment Lite?

Dantek’s Legionella Risk Assessment Lite is a comprehensive survey tailored to meet the specific needs of the retail sector. This Lite version is designed for sites without significant plant items like calorifiers and tanks, which are commonly found in larger establishments. Retailers with mains-fed systems will find this tool particularly invaluable. We understand that every business is unique, and our Lite assessment streamlines the process while ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines.

Key Features of the Legionella Risk Assessment Lite:
  • Lite Asset Register: Gain clarity on systems falling within the ACoP L8 guidelines, helping you understand which areas require your attention.
  • Visual Documentation: Our assessment includes full-color photographs of assets within your store, providing a visual reference for future maintenance and compliance efforts
  • Condition Evaluation: We meticulously evaluate the current condition of water storage systems, ensuring they adhere to the Water Fittings Regulations 1999.
  • Temperature Analysis: Our survey assesses system temperatures, ensuring they are at levels that effectively control the growth of Legionella bacteria, as mandated by ACOP L8.
  • Actionable Recommendations: Receive comprehensive recommendations for remedial and monitoring tasks, enabling you to proactively address potential risks.
Upgrade Path for Complex Systems:

We understand that every retail space is different. Should our Lite assessment identify a more complex system, our seamless upgrade option allows you to transition to a full Legionella risk assessment. This ensures that your specific needs are met, and you remain compliant and proactive in safeguarding your environment.

Effective Patch System Approach:

Managing multiple retail sites across the UK can be challenging. That’s why our innovative patch system has proven to be highly effective. Upon receiving your property list, we strategically organize your sites by geographical location, creating manageable schedules that align with your operational needs. This approach optimizes efficiency and allows you to focus on providing exceptional retail experiences.

Streamlined Portfolio Management:

We understand that overseeing numerous properties requires efficient portfolio management. Our electronic log book simplifies this task by documenting all assets and their types at each site. This tool gives you a bird’s-eye view of your portfolio, making it easier to manage and prioritize actions.

Experience and Expertise:
With a wealth of experience in the field, Dantek is a trusted partner for multiple high-street brands across the UK. Our legionella risk assessment services are tailored to meet the unique demands of the retail industry, ensuring compliance, safety, and peace of mind.
In a competitive retail landscape, maintaining a safe and hygienic environment is non-negotiable. Dantek’s Legionella Risk Assessment Lite empowers retail businesses, fast food restaurants, and franchises to take proactive measures in water safety. Discover how our Lite survey can make a significant impact on your operations.
Contact us today to take the first step towards a safer environment for your customers and employees.
Phone: 01454 417 920
Email:sales@dantek.co.uk
Whether you’re looking to schedule a Legionella Risk Assessment Lite, inquire about our services, or discuss your specific needs, our dedicated team is ready to assist you.

Legionella Safety – Importance of a Written Scheme of Control

In the fast-paced and dynamic sports industry, ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes, staff, and visitors is of utmost importance. One critical aspect of maintaining a safe environment is the effective management of water systems to prevent the growth and spread of Legionella bacteria. This blog post highlights the significance of a comprehensive Written Scheme of Control and its role in safeguarding the sports industry against Legionella risks.

Understanding the Written Scheme of Control:

A Written Scheme of Control is a vital risk management document that outlines the measures necessary to control the risk of Legionella exposure in water systems. It provides clear guidance on implementing and managing these measures to ensure water system safety.

Roles and Responsibilities:

The first crucial element of a Written Scheme of Control is defining the roles and responsibilities of key personnel within the sports organization. This includes identifying the overall responsible person and statutory site duty holder who hold ultimate responsibility for the safety of all individuals within the sports community. Additionally, it specifies the person in charge of the day-to-day implementation of the Legionella control policy.

Risk Identification and Control Measures:

The Written Scheme of Control should comprehensively address the risks associated with Legionella and outline the specific control tasks that will be implemented. This involves identifying potential sources of Legionella contamination, such as cooling towers, showers, and other water systems present in the sports facility. The document then describes the control measures that will be employed to mitigate these risks effectively.

Water Hygiene Provider Contact Details:

If applicable, the Written Scheme of Control should include contact information for the water hygiene provider responsible for supporting the organization in implementing the control measures. This ensures that the sports facility can seek expert assistance and guidance whenever necessary.

Record Keeping:

Accurate record keeping is crucial for monitoring and maintaining water system safety. The Written Scheme of Control should outline the procedures and requirements for record keeping, including documentation of regular inspections, maintenance activities, and any remedial actions taken.

Audit and Noncompliance Escalation:

To ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the control regime, regular audits of the Legionella control measures should be conducted. The Written Scheme of Control should detail the audit process, including how noncompliance issues will be addressed and escalated within the organization.

Schematic Drawing:

Including a schematic drawing of the water systems within the sports facility can be highly beneficial. This visual representation helps stakeholders better understand the layout of the systems, aiding in the identification of potential risks and facilitating effective control measures.

Plant Shutdown Procedures:

In the event of maintenance or emergency situations, clear procedures for the shutdown and commissioning of water systems should be documented. The Written Scheme of Control should outline the steps to be followed to ensure proper shutdown and safe restart of the systems.

Risk Assessment Review Procedure:

Regular review of the Legionella risk assessment is essential to ensure that control measures remain up to date and relevant. The Written Scheme of Control should outline the procedure for conducting periodic reviews and any necessary updates to the control measures based on new information or changing circumstances.

Emergency Procedures:

The Written Scheme of Control should include detailed emergency procedures to be followed in the event of a suspected or confirmed outbreak of Legionella. This ensures that the organization can respond promptly and effectively, minimizing the impact of the outbreak on the sports community.

A robust Written Scheme of Control is a vital tool for the sports industry to manage and mitigate the risks associated with Legionella in water systems. By clearly defining roles and responsibilities, outlining control measures, and providing procedures for various scenarios, sports organizations can ensure the safety of athletes, staff, and visitors. Regular review and adherence to the Written Scheme of Control are essential for maintaining water system safety and protecting the well-being of all individuals involved in the sports industry.

Dantek can help: Streamline Legionella Risk Management with Our Custom Written Scheme of Control Template

In the world of Legionella risk management, having a clear and comprehensive plan in place is essential. As an optional extra following your Legionella risk assessment, we are delighted to offer a custom written scheme of control template. This document serves as a live guide, providing step-by-step instructions tailored to your specific site, ensuring effective management of Legionella risks. It is important to note that while this template is a valuable resource, it requires input and ownership from your organization’s management team, particularly the statutory duty holder and responsible person.

A Site-Specific Approach:

Our custom-written scheme of control template takes into account the unique characteristics of your site. By addressing the Legionella risks on a site-specific basis, you can be confident that the control measures outlined in the document align with your facility’s specific needs. This tailored approach ensures a more efficient and effective management strategy.

Ownership and Responsibility:

The statutory duty holder and responsible person play crucial roles in the successful implementation of the written scheme of control. It is their responsibility to review the template and make any necessary amendments to accurately reflect how your organization operates in managing the control scheme for Legionella risk. By taking ownership of the document, you can ensure that it aligns with your organization’s practices and procedures.

Key Components of the Template:

Our written scheme of control template covers all the necessary elements to prevent the growth and proliferation of Legionella bacteria. It clearly specifies the control measures required, providing a comprehensive framework for managing Legionella risks. Additionally, the template describes the procedures for implementing and executing these control measures, ensuring consistency in their application. It also outlines how your organization will allocate and manage the control tasks, ensuring clear responsibilities and accountability.

Referring to HSG274 Part 2:

For a summary of the requirements of a written scheme, we encourage you to refer to appendix 2.2, page 55, of HSG274 Part 2. This publication by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides valuable insights and guidance to complement our template, ensuring that you are well-informed and compliant with the relevant standards. https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Completion of Blue Text Fields:

To personalize the written scheme of the control template, certain fields are highlighted in blue text. It is the responsibility of the responsible person or statutory duty holder within your organization to complete these fields, ensuring that the document accurately reflects your specific operations and procedures.

Managing Legionella Safety in the Sports Industry requires a systematic and tailored approach. With our custom-written scheme of control template, you can streamline your Legionella risk management efforts, ensuring compliance and effective risk mitigation. Remember, it is crucial for the statutory duty holder and responsible person to review and personalize the document to align with your organization’s practices. Take advantage of this valuable resource and proactively protect the health and well-being of all individuals within your facility and ensure the highest standards of legionella safety in the sports industry.

Should you require any further assistance or wish to discuss your specific requirements, please do not hesitate to contact us. At Dantek we are here to support you and ensure the highest standards of Legionella Safety Sports Industry. Please call 01454 417 920 or e mail sales@dantek.co.uk https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/

 

Flushing of Infrequently Used Outlets

Flushing of Infrequently Used Outlets: Understanding the importance of regularly flushing infrequently used outlets to maintain water quality and minimize Legionella growth.

Welcome to our blog dedicated to responsible persons in the sports industry who are entrusted with ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors and staff within sports facilities. In this blog, we will shed light on a crucial aspect of facility management regarding Legionella control. Specifically, we will emphasize the importance of regularly flushing infrequently used outlets to maintain water quality and minimize the risk of Legionella growth.

Let’s explore this essential practice and its significance in safeguarding the health of all individuals who utilize sports facilities.

 

Understanding Legionella and Its Risks: Protecting Water Safety in Sports Facilities

  • Legionella bacteria can pose a significant health risk when present in water sources, including the plumbing systems of sports facilities. These bacteria thrive in warm water environments and can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. As responsible persons and staff members in the sports industry, it is crucial to prioritize Legionella control to prevent outbreaks and protect the health and safety of everyone using sports facilities.

The Role of Flushing Infrequently Used Outlets:

  • One key aspect of Legionella control is understanding the importance of regularly flushing infrequently used outlet. These outlets, such as showers, irrigation systems during low usage, drench shower, and eye wash stations, often experience stagnant water conditions that create a favorable environment for bacterial growth. Flushing these outlets involves running water through them for several minutes to remove stagnant water, sediment, and any potential Legionella bacteria that may have accumulated. An infrequently used outlet is a outlet that is not used for a period equal to or greater than seven days. If legionella is suspected an increase of flushing will be required.

Why Regular Flushing Matters:

  • Maintaining water quality and minimizing Legionella growth are two critical reasons why regular flushing of infrequently used outlets is essential in sports facilities.
  • Water Quality Maintenance: Flushing infrequently used outlets helps maintain the overall water quality within the facility. By removing accumulated sediment, biofilm, and other contaminants, you ensure a fresh supply of water with optimal quality for visitors and staff.
  • Minimizing Legionella Risk: Stagnant water provides an ideal breeding ground for Legionella bacteria. Regularly flushing infrequently used outlets disrupts these conditions and significantly reduces the risk of Legionella colonization in the facility’s plumbing system.

Effective Flushing Protocol:

  • To ensure an effective Legionella control strategy, it is crucial to conduct a legionella risk assessment to identify infrequently used outlets within your sports facility. However, it’s important to recognize that footfall patterns can change over time. Therefore, regular internal surveys should be conducted to identify outlets that are used less frequently, such as restrooms, locker rooms, and areas with lower foot traffic. By prioritizing these outlets during the flushing process and updating your flushing records accordingly, you can effectively target areas that are more susceptible to Legionella growth.

Establishing a Flushing Schedule:

  • Creating a regular flushing schedule for all identified outlets is a crucial step. Refer to HSG24 Part 2 guidelines (link to downloadable pdf at the end of this blog) and consider factors such as facility usage, occupancy rates, and water temperature when determining the frequency of flushing. Document the schedule and communicate it to the staff members responsible for flushing. Regularly review and update the schedule to accommodate any changes in facility usage.

Ensuring Adequate Flushing Duration:

  • During the flushing process, it is essential to run water through the infrequently used outlets for an adequate duration. Weekly flushing for several minutes per outlet should generally suffice. This duration allows for the removal of stagnant water and any potential Legionella bacteria. Ensure that staff members responsible for flushing are aware of the proper duration and follow it consistently.
  • Ensure that the running of water from outlets does not create an unnecessary amount of aerosol. If legionella is suspected or present submerse showers into a bucket of water or conceal them in a bag (Snipping the corner the allow water flow). If you require any advice regarding flushing infrequently used outlets with suspected or present legionella, please do not hesitate to contact our team at Dantek 01454 417 920

Monitoring and Documentation:

  • Maintain detailed records of all flushing activities, including the dates, outlets flushed, and the duration of flushing. Regularly review and monitor these records to ensure compliance with the established protocol and track the effectiveness of your Legionella control measures. By documenting any changes or additions to infrequently used outlets and updating the flushing records accordingly, you can keep your Legionella control measures up to date and in line with the current usage patterns of your sports facility.
  • At Dantek, we believe in providing value and support to our customers in the sports industry. That’s why we are pleased to offer our cutting-edge electronic logging system, completely free of charge to all our contracted customers. Our logbook allows you to record detailed reports of all flushing activities. You can easily track the dates of flushing, identify outlets that are currently listed as infrequently used, and set specific durations and frequencies for flushing. This ensures that your flushing protocol is properly documented, and you can keep a close eye on the maintenance of water quality within your facility. If you would like to book a free demo and see how our log book can help you, please call 01454 417 920 or e mail sales@dantek.co.uk

Remember, if you need assistance or further guidance regarding Legionella control in your sports facility, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dantek. Our team is available to help, email sales@dantek.co.uk or call 01454 417 920

For further guidance please refer to https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

 

Taking action positive legionella results

Taking action positive legionella results Legionella bacteria pose a potential risk in all water systems, including those commonly found in sports facilities. To ensure the safety and well-being of athletes, staff, and visitors, it is crucial for the sports industry to implement effective control measures. Regular Legionella testing plays a significant role in assessing the efficacy of these measures. In this blog post, we will discuss the actions to be taken upon receiving a positive Legionella sample result, emphasizing the importance of a proactive approach to mitigate the risk of Legionella colonization and ensure water system safety.

Understanding Legionella Sample Results:

When receiving a Legionella sample result, it’s essential to interpret the findings correctly. A comprehensive certificate of analysis accompanies each result, providing vital information for subsequent actions.

Sample Details:

The certificate includes the location, date, and time of the sample collection. Additionally, it records the primary control measure at the time of sampling, usually indicating the temperature but potentially mentioning a chemical reserve such as Chlorine Dioxide or Silver reserve.

Detection of Legionella:

The Legionella sample result will indicate whether Legionella bacteria were detected or not. A “Detected” result signifies a positive finding, while a “Not detected” result indicates a negative outcome. The testing is typically conducted on a one-liter water sample.

Legionella Speciation:

Legionella species are further categorized based on their serogroups. The results will specify the detected species as one of the following options:

  1. L.pneumophila serogroup 1
  2. L.pneumophila serogroup 2-14
  3. L.species (other than L.pneumophila serogroup 1-14)

Legionella Enumeration:

The concentration of Legionella in the water sample is reported as colony-forming units per liter (cfu/l). If a smaller sample volume was analyzed, the tested volume will be stated.

Taking action positive legionella results Assessing and Responding to Results

Upon receiving positive Legionella results, it is crucial to promptly assess the situation and take appropriate actions. The following steps will guide you through this process:

Assess the Results:

To gain clarity and inform subsequent actions, consider the following questions while reviewing the results:

  1. Why were the samples taken in the first place?
  2. Do the results pertain to a single water system or multiple systems? Identify the specific systems involved.
  3. Are the majority or minority of samples reported as “Detected” for each system?
  4. Are the enumeration results greater or less than 1,000 cfu/l?
  5. Is this the first positive result for each system, or are they failed re-samples?

Taking action positive legionella results Housekeeping and Risk Assessment

Regardless of the enumeration level, taking immediate action is crucial to address the situation effectively. Consider the following steps based on the enumeration level:

  1. a) Positive samples with enumeration less than 1,000 cfu/l

If the minority of samples are positive and these are the first failures, resample the system.

If the majority of samples are positive, it may indicate low-level colonization. Resample the system, conduct an audit of control measures, and review the water risk assessment. Water system disinfection may be necessary.

  1. b) Samples with enumeration greater than 1,000 cfu/l

If most samples are positive and exceed 1,000 cfu/l, consider system-wide disinfection.

Resample the system two to seven days after disinfection.

Review the number and locations of samples to ensure meaningful results. A well-designed sampling plan can aid in identifying root causes.

Review the water risk assessment to ensure it reflects the current state of the water system, including physical and operational factors.

Verify if all remedial actions and recommendations from the water risk assessment have been implemented.

Conduct an immediate review of control measures, including the logbook, to ensure scheduled tasks are completed and recorded satisfactorily for Legionella control.

  1. c) Samples with enumeration greater than 10,000 cfu/l:

In addition to the actions recommended for enumeration levels exceeding 1,000 cfu/l, consider removing affected outlets or systems from service.

Implement a comprehensive flushing regimen for removed outlets/systems to prevent further issues.

Follow-up and Escalation:

Legionella pneumophila is persistent and can be challenging to eradicate once it establishes a foothold. Maintain detailed records of all actions taken in response to positive results. These records serve as evidence for closing out positive results and provide insights for addressing persistent colonization issues.

Repeated failures should follow an iterative cycle of plan, do, check, act. It is crucial to involve duty holders and senior management at an early stage to ensure adequate resources and authority for resolving the issue. Addressing Legionella colonization should never fall solely on the responsibility of a single individual.

Taking action positive legionella results Taking immediate action upon receiving positive Legionella sample results is vital for the sports industry to maintain a safe and healthy environment. By following the outlined assessment and response steps, sports facilities can effectively mitigate the risk of Legionella colonization. Remember, Dantek are experts in Legionella prevention and control and can provide valuable assistance throughout the assessment and eradication process.

Prioritize the safety of your athletes, staff, and visitors by proactively managing Legionella in your water systems.

Contact the Dantek team today. You can give us a call at 01454 417 920 https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/ or send an email to sales@dantek.co.uk. We’re here to assist you and answer any inquiries you may have.

Water Hygiene Monitoring in the sports industry

Water Hygiene Monitoring: Highlighting the significance of regular monitoring to detect and address any potential Legionella issues promptly.

Water Hygiene Monitoring in the Sports Industry: A Guide to Legionella Control

As the responsible person in charge of managing a sports facility, whether it’s a cricket ground, hockey field, football stadium, or rugby pitch, ensuring the safety and well-being of players, staff, and fans is your utmost priority. A critical aspect of maintaining their safety revolves around upholding clean and safe water conditions, with a specific focus on controlling Legionella bacteria. This blog aims to emphasize the importance of regular water hygiene monitoring and how it enables you to promptly identify and address any potential Legionella-related issues.

Understanding the Significance of Water Hygiene Monitoring:

Water hygiene monitoring plays a critical role in several aspects. Legionella bacteria, are the culprits behind Legionnaires’ disease. Regular monitoring enables the early detection of any potential Legionella presence, allowing immediate action to prevent their growth and spread. By addressing the issue promptly, you not only protect the health of players, staff, and fans but also ensure compliance with relevant Health & Safety regulations. The sports industry, with its multitude of stadiums, training facilities, and recreational areas, bears the responsibility of safeguarding the well-being of all individuals involved. For comprehensive guidance, we recommend consulting HSG274 Part 2: The control of Legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems. You can access the publication here https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

Understanding the Risks:

Legionella bacteria thrive in water systems with temperatures between 20°C and 45°C, making them particularly problematic in sports facilities where warm water is frequently used. Pools, showers, spas, and other water sources present an ideal environment for the growth and spread of Legionella. It is vital for the sports industry to comprehend the risks associated with Legionella and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.

Applying HSG274 Part 2:

HSG274 Part 2 is a comprehensive guide specifically tailored to the control of Legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems. This document provides valuable insights and practical advice for implementing effective water hygiene measures. Let’s explore some key recommendations from the guide that can help the sports industry maintain a safe environment: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part3.pdf

Risk Assessments:

Regular risk assessments play a vital role in identifying potential sources of Legionella contamination, making them an essential practice. It is imperative to thoroughly evaluate all water systems present in your sports facility, ranging from storage tanks and plumbing to recreational water features. These assessments should be conducted by knowledgeable individuals who possess expertise in Legionella control to ensure accurate evaluation and effective management. (We will provide more comprehensive information about legionella risk assessments in the upcoming quarter, so stay tuned for further details.)

Water Treatment and Monitoring:

Develop a robust water treatment plan to prevent and control the growth of Legionella bacteria. This may involve implementing disinfection measures, such as chlorine or other appropriate biocides. Regular monitoring of water quality and temperature is essential to ensure that control measures are effective and maintained at the desired level.

Hot water systems:

Regular monitoring of temperatures is of utmost importance for effective Legionella control. 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.

Cold Water Systems:

Frequent inspection of cold water storage tanks is essential to promptly identify and address any issues that could impact water quality. Regular cleaning and necessary repairs should be conducted as needed. Temperature checks at specific taps are crucial to ensure that the water temperature remains below 20 °C within two minutes of running the cold tap. Monitoring other outlets also contributes to creating a comprehensive temperature profile of the entire system.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

Implementing consistent cleaning and maintenance protocols for all water systems is essential. It is crucial to regularly eliminate scale, sediment, and biofilm, as they create an environment conducive to Legionella growth. Proper maintenance of showers, taps, and other water outlets is vital to prevent stagnation and ensure smooth water flow. Regular upkeep of showers and spray taps is particularly important to mitigate the risk of Legionella contamination. Cleaning and descaling removable parts, heads, inserts, and hoses should be carried out on a quarterly basis. In high-risk areas, more frequent maintenance may be required to ensure effective control.

Checking temperature on a calorifier

Remember Legionella control is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and commitment. By prioritizing the safety of players, staff, and fans, the sports industry can create a secure environment where everyone can enjoy their favorite sports activities with peace of mind.

Experts in Water Hygiene:

Our commitment lies in the prevention of Legionnaires’ disease through effective water hygiene management. With our specialized knowledge in the professional sports industry, we offer valuable support and guidance to control Legionella bacteria in a wide range of water systems. This includes plunge pools, grass separation systems, pitch irrigation, and domestic water supplies. Our team of professionals is well aware of the importance of ensuring the well-being of both athletes and staff, and we bring extensive experience in managing water systems across various sporting sites.

Exceptional Service and Reliability:

At Dantek, we take pride in providing exceptional service and support to our customers. Our team of experts are extensively trained, ensuring that all work is completed efficiently, cost-effectively, and with minimal disruption to your team’s operations. We prioritize quick response times and offer immediate answers to any questions or concerns you may have. Additionally, we understand the challenges that come with managing busy training schedules and match days, and we work closely with you to ensure our attendance is carefully managed to avoid any disruptions.

Contact the Dantek team today. You can give us a call at 01454 417 920 or send an email to sales@dantek.co.uk We’re here to assist you and answer any inquiries you may have.

Risk mitigation in the sports industry

Coming Soon: Informative Blogs on Legionella Risk Mitigation in the Sports Industry!

Risk mitigation Introduction:

Attention, professionals in the sports industry! We are thrilled to announce some exciting news. Starting next week, we will be dedicating our efforts to the sports industry as part of our quarterly campaign. Our primary focus will be on addressing critical topics related to Legionella risk mitigation in sports facilities. We aim to offer valuable insights and practical advice to assist you in maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for athletes, staff, and visitors.

Managing Legionella poses unique challenges within the sports industry. To cater to these specific needs, Dantek has developed a comprehensive range of specialized water hygiene solutions tailored exclusively for sports clubs and facilities. Our team of expert engineers understands the sensitivity of both athletes and staff, and they possess extensive experience in managing water systems in stadiums, training grounds, and other sport facilities.

Risk mitigation – Why It Matters:

Legionella bacteria can pose serious health risks if not properly managed. By staying informed about the potential hazards and adopting effective preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of Legionella contamination in your sports facility. Our blogs will empower you with the knowledge and resources needed to safeguard your facility and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

What to expect:

In our upcoming blog series on Legionella risk management in the sports industry, we will cover a wide range of essential topics. Our goal is to provide valuable insights and practical guidance to help you effectively manage the risks associated with Legionella in large water systems found in sports facilities. Here are some of the topics we will delve into:

BLOG 1 Chlorine Dioxide: Exploring the benefits and proper use of chlorine dioxide as a disinfectant in water systems to control Legionella growth.

BLOG 2 Irrigation Systems: Understanding the potential risks associated with irrigation systems and implementing preventive measures to mitigate Legionella contamination.

BLOG 3 Recycled Water Systems: Examining the challenges and best practices for managing Legionella and microbial risks in recycled water systems.

BLOG 4 Water Hygiene Monitoring: Highlighting the significance of regular monitoring to detect and address any potential Legionella issues promptly.

BLOG 5 Responding to Positive Legionella Results: Taking Action on Positive Legionella Results: A Guide for the Sports Industry

BLOG 6 Flushing of Infrequently Used Outlets: Understanding the importance of regularly flushing infrequently used outlets to maintain water quality and minimize Legionella growth.

BLOG 7 Legionella Risk Assessments: Discussing the importance of conducting comprehensive Legionella risk assessments to identify potential hazards and develop effective control measures.

BLOG 8 Training and Competence: Safeguarding lives in the sports sector through legionella eductaion

BLOG 9 Record Keeping: Electronic log book, the solution for the busy sports industry

BLOG 10 Ensuring water safety in the sports industry: The importance of a comprehensive written scheme of control

Join us next week as we launch our highly anticipated blog series on Legionella risk management in the sports industry. Stay updated and gain valuable insights by following our LinkedIn page, where we will be sharing these informative blog posts. Don’t miss out on expert advice and practical guidance to help you protect against Legionella contamination in your sports facility’s water systems. Follow us on LinkedIn and stay informed as we explore essential topics.

Contact the Dantek team today https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/. You can give us a call at 01454 417 920 or send an email to sales@dantek.co.uk. We’re here to assist you and answer any inquiries you may have.

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