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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.

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

Microbial Sampling for Retail Spaces

In the bustling world of retail, maintaining a safe and hygienic environment is of paramount importance. As a responsible business owner or manager, you’re aware that customer satisfaction is directly tied to cleanliness and safety. This is where microbial sampling, encompassing legionella and TVCC sampling, steps in as a proactive solution to ensure water hygiene and safety within your retail establishment.

Why Microbial Sampling Matters:

Microbial sampling is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a targeted strategy aimed at specific situations. It’s crucial to understand that routine sampling and testing of domestic hot and mains-fed cold water might not be necessary in every circumstance. However, there are instances where microbial sampling becomes essential, safeguarding both your customers and your business reputation. Here are some scenarios that warrant microbial sampling:

  • Legionella Risk Assessment: If your legionella risk assessment indicates a need for monitoring, microbial sampling becomes a valuable tool in maintaining water safety.
  • Control Measure Verification: When you’re unsure about the effectiveness of your existing control measures, microbial sampling provides clarity and peace of mind.
  • Biocide Treatment: After treating your water system with biocides, microbial sampling ensures the treatment’s success and prevents potential risks.
  • Temperature and Disinfectant Control: Inconsistent temperature control and disinfectant concentrations can lead to microbial growth. Sampling helps you identify these issues promptly.
  • High-Risk Individuals: If your premises house individuals vulnerable to infections, microbial sampling becomes a crucial safeguard.
  • Past Outbreaks: If your establishment has experienced legionellosis outbreaks.
  • Non-Mains Water Supply: For businesses with non-mains water supply sources, such as private springs, microbial sampling ensures the safety of your water source.
  • System Anomalies: Various system anomalies like low usage, stagnation, or excess storage capacity can increase microbial risks. Sampling helps detect and address these concerns.

Types of Microbial Sampling:

In the realm of retail, the most common types of microbial sampling include:

Legionella Sampling: This focuses on detecting the presence of Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease. Regular legionella sampling helps you mitigate potential health hazards.

TVC (Total Viable Count) Sampling: TVC sampling provides insights into the overall bacterial activity in your water. Monitoring trends helps maintain water quality and hygiene.

TVCC (Total Viable Count and Coliforms/E. coli) Sampling: This comprehensive sampling method detects both general bacterial counts and specific coliforms and E. coli. A fail result triggers appropriate actions to ensure safety.

The Sampling Process and Results:

At the heart of this approach lies simplicity and ease. We understand that your time is valuable, and that’s why we offer two convenient avenues for nationwide retail sites.

Sample Bottles Delivered to Your Doorstep:

Our hassle-free approach allows you to receive sample bottles directly at your establishment. These bottles come complete with detailed instructions, guiding you through the straightforward sampling process. We understand that your focus is on running your business, so we’ve made it easy for you to collect the necessary samples at your convenience.

Expert On-Site Assistance: Alternatively, if you prefer a hands-on approach, our skilled technicians can visit your site to collect the samples. Our professionals are trained in aseptic techniques and follow stringent procedures to ensure accurate and reliable results. With on-site sampling, you can have peace of mind knowing that the process is being handled by experts.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Self-Sampling:

For those who opt to collect samples themselves, our sample bottles come with comprehensive instructions. These step-by-step guidelines cover every aspect of the sampling process, from properly collecting the sample to securely sealing the bottle. We understand that clear instructions are crucial, so we’ve designed our guidelines to be user-friendly and easy to follow.

Once samples are collected, they are submitted to a UKAS accredited laboratory for testing. The turnaround time for results varies depending on the type of sampling:

Legionella Results: Final results are available within 12 days, with interim results indicating positives on day 6.

TVC Results: Approximately 5 days are needed for TVC results, with E. coli or coliform detection results available within 3 days.

Factors Influencing Results:

Several factors can influence microbial sampling results. Older buildings with outdated pipework and disused outlets pose higher risks. Environmental factors like temperature also impact bacterial growth. Proper sampling techniques, including aseptic methods, are vital for accurate results. Running taps in little-used outlets weekly prevents stagnation and positive results.

In the dynamic retail industry, prioritizing water hygiene and safety is a responsibility that shouldn’t be overlooked. Microbial sampling serves as your vigilant ally, providing insights and data necessary for maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment. By embracing microbial sampling, you take proactive measures that resonate with customers and contribute to the long-term success of your retail business.

Call Us Today! Our experts are here to address your questions, provide guidance, and assist you in implementing a comprehensive microbial sampling plan that suits your needs.

Our friendly team are available via our online chat www.dantek.co.uk. Call 01454 417 920 or e mail sales@dantek.co.uk

Simplifying Water Hygiene Monitoring for Retail Facilities Managers: Dantek’s Tailored Solutions

As a facilities manager in the retail industry, overseeing multiple sites comes with its fair share of challenges. Ensuring health and safety compliance, particularly in water hygiene, is paramount. This is where we step in, offering water hygiene monitoring contracts designed to cater to the unique needs of retail facilities managers. With a focus on convenience, compliance, and effectiveness, Our solutions have proven themselves time and again in national retail contracts.

One of our standout features is our commitment to crafting water hygiene monitoring contracts based on each individual site’s specific needs. This means that whether you’re dealing with a low-risk site needing minimal monitoring or bustling flagship headquarters requiring frequent checks, we have you covered. Our individual personalised site approach ensures that you’re not overextending your resources on sites that don’t require excessive attention, while still maintaining strict adherence to health and safety standards.

Efficiency through the Patch System

Managing a nationwide network of retail sites demands a well-structured approach. Our patch system has proven to be a game-changer in this regard. Once armed with a property list, our team will categorize your retail units into manageable geographical patches. This segmentation facilitates the creation of a comprehensive schedule of works and visiting plan, all subject to your approval. The result? A streamlined and efficient system that ensures timely monitoring and maintenance without the usual logistical headaches.

Log Book: A Cloud-Based Convenience

We don’t only monitor and maintain your retail sites but also offer a seamless complimentary electronic log book service. All outlet documentation and recorded readings are stored electronically in our cloud-based log book. This convenient tool grants you instant access to the information you need, eliminating the hassle of physical record keeping. With the log book’s user-friendly interface, you can easily review and manage data at your convenience, ensuring transparency and accountability in water hygiene management.

COMING SOON: Discover more about Dantek’s cloud-based electronic log book and how it enhances water hygiene management efficiency later in our blog post.

Proven Success in National Retail Contracts

Our success in national retail contracts is a testament to the effectiveness of our water hygiene monitoring solutions. Whether you require minimal checks or a comprehensive program, Our flexibility, expertise, and commitment to excellence set us apart as an industry leader.

Contact Us for Tailored Water Hygiene Solutions

At Dantek, we’re dedicated to simplifying water hygiene management for retail facilities managers across the nation. If you’re interested in exploring our water hygiene monitoring contracts and benefiting from our streamlined approach, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Email: sales@dantek.co.uk

Phone: 01454 417920

Our team of experts is ready to address your queries, provide more information, and work with you to design a customized solution that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re overseeing low-risk sites or bustling headquarters, we have the experience and tools to ensure your water hygiene compliance is seamless and hassle-free.

Annual Maintenance and Disinfection of Base Exchange Water Softeners: Ensuring Legionella Control and Efficient Operation

Base exchange water softeners: Water softeners play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of hot and cold-water systems, ensuring both efficiency and safety. The HSG 274 guidance document for the control of legionella bacteria emphasizes the significance of regular maintenance and disinfection of Base exchange water softeners. In this blog, we delve into the importance of annual servicing, the comprehensive checks conducted, and how these actions contribute to efficient and reliable operation.

Why Annual Maintenance Matters – Base exchange water softeners

The HSG 274 guidelines provide a robust framework for mitigating the risks linked to legionella bacteria. According to these guidelines, it is recommended that Base exchange water softeners receive annual servicing and disinfection. This regular maintenance not only helps in preventing the spread of legionella but also prolongs the lifespan of the softener system, guaranteeing its ongoing effectiveness, all while reducing operational costs through optimal salt and water utilization.

The Annual Service for Base Exchange Water Softeners: A Detailed Overview

Many companies still rely on Chlorine, which can damage the resin, reduce its capacity, and ultimately shorten its lifespan. What sets Dantek apart from competitors is our commitment to a comprehensive review of the commissioning settings, cross-referencing them with first principle calculations for factors like salt usage and resin capacity. We also quantitatively measure water hardness, ensuring that each vessel produces water with a hardness level below 5ppm, a more stringent standard compared to others who typically test down to 10 or 20ppm

  • During the annual softener service, our specialized water softener team conducts a meticulous inspection and maintenance process, consisting of the following key steps:
  • Resin Bed Disinfection: We disinfect the resin beds in both columns using a resin-safe disinfectant, PAA5. This critical step ensures the elimination of harmful bacteria, enhancing the safety of your water supply.
  • Visual Inspection and Leak Check: Our technicians carefully examine the system for any visible leaks from the valve head and vessels. Identifying and addressing leaks promptly not only prevents water wastage but also helps avoid potential damage
  • Salt Levels and Condition: We check the salt levels and condition to ensure proper regeneration and optimal softening efficiency.
  • Operational Function Tests: Various operational functions, including the backwash function, injector clearance, brine draw, rapid rinse cycle, and brine valve operation, undergo rigorous testing to ensure smooth operation.
  • Brine System Inspection: As part of our Dantek Service, we remove, clean, and inspect components like the brine assembly, venturi valve, brine line flow control, and brine tank foot valve. This thorough inspection is vital to ensure that the softener functions correctly until the next annual service.
  • Base exchange water softeners Confirmation: We assess water hardness to verify the softener’s effectiveness in providing consistently softened water.
  • Electrical Control Systems: We review the operation of electrical control systems to ensure seamless automation and control.
  • Control Settings and Fault Identification: Control settings are meticulously recorded and adjusted if necessary. Any system faults are identified and reported to the customer, along with estimated costs for any required repairs.

At Dantek, our annual softener service goes beyond routine maintenance, providing you with the assurance that your water softening system will operate efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively, while safeguarding the quality and safety of your water supply.

Complete Assurance and Report

During the service visit, our highly skilled technicians diligently record all relevant data and promptly report any instances of non-compliance. This meticulous documentation guarantees that your water softener system operates at peak efficiency, remains cost-effective, and prioritizes safety and reliability. With this approach, you can rest assured that your systems are shielded from the harmful impacts of hard water, ensuring their long-term performance and effectiveness.

Call Us to Book Your Water Softener Service Today!

At Dantek, we understand the importance of maintaining a safe and efficient water supply within your commercial environment. Our specialized water softener team is here to provide you with top-notch service that aligns with the HSG 274 guidelines for legionella control. Don’t wait until issues arise – take proactive steps to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your base exchange water softeners.

Booking your annual Base exchange water softeners service is easy. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to assist you in scheduling a convenient appointment that suits your business needs. Whether you’re seeking routine maintenance, disinfection, or comprehensive checks, our team is equipped to provide the best care your water softener system deserves.

By choosing Dantek for your water softener servicing needs, you’re choosing reliability, expertise, and a commitment to water system safety. Give us a call today to secure your appointment and take a proactive step toward maintaining a healthier, more efficient water supply for your business.

Contact us at 01454 417 920 or sales@dantek.co.uk to schedule your water softener service now! #Baseexchangewatersofteners

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/

 

Dantek electronic log book The Solution for the Busy Sports Industry

Dantek electronic log book: In the fast-paced world of the sports industry, where schedules are tight and demands are high, efficient management of Legionella compliance is crucial. This is where the Dantek electronic log book comes in, providing an innovative solution tailored to the needs of the busy sports industry.

Here’s how our logbook can help sports clubs and facilities effectively manage their Legionella compliance responsibilities:

Streamlined compliance monitoring:

Our electronic logbook offers real-time access to compliance data, allowing sports clubs and facilities to easily monitor their Legionella compliance status. This means that managers and staff can stay updated on compliance requirements even in the midst of a hectic schedule, ensuring that no critical tasks or inspections are overlooked.

Simplified task assignment and progress tracking:

Assigning compliance-related tasks to field service engineers becomes a breeze. The system streamlines task management, making it easy to allocate responsibilities and track the progress of each task. This level of organization ensures that all necessary compliance activities are completed on time and with utmost precision, minimizing the risk of any potential issues.

Prompt identification and resolution of non-compliances:

The real-time visibility provided in the logbook allows sports clubs and facilities to quickly identify any non-compliances or defects. By promptly addressing these issues, they can prevent them from escalating into major problems that could disrupt operations or compromise the safety of athletes and staff. Our traffic light system makes it easy to prioritize and address recurring non-compliances, streamlining the corrective action process.

Enhanced productivity and accountability:

The Dantek logbook improves the productivity and accountability of field service engineers by providing a centralized platform for managing compliance tasks. By streamlining workflows and facilitating clear communication, our electronic logbook ensures that everyone involved is on the same page and working towards the common goal of maintaining a safe water system. This increased productivity translates into more efficient operations and peace of mind for sports club managers and staff.

Secure and accessible document management:

Gone are the days of searching through stacks of paper reports and certificates. Our cloud-based system offers secure document management, allowing sports clubs and facilities to store and access all their compliance-related documents electronically. This means that risk assessments, certificates, and other essential documents are easily accessible whenever needed, saving valuable time and effort.

The Dantek Electronic Logging System for Legionella Compliance is Free for All Contracted Customers!

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.

We understand the importance of maintaining a safe and compliant water system while managing the busy operations of a sports club or facility. By offering our log book as a complimentary service to our contracted customers, we aim to alleviate the financial burden associated with implementing advanced compliance management systems.

When you choose Dantek as your trusted partner for Legionella management, you gain access to the full range of benefits that our logbook offers, at no additional cost to you.

We believe that compliance should be accessible to all sports clubs and facilities, regardless of their size or budget. By making our system free for our contracted customers, we ensure that even organizations with limited resources can benefit from our innovative solutions and expert guidance.

So, if you’re looking to enhance your Legionella compliance management in the sports industry and take advantage of the convenience and efficiency that our log book provides, become a contracted customer of Dantek today. Join the many sports clubs and facilities that have already experienced the advantages of this system, all while enjoying the added value of our exceptional service and support.

Contact us now at 01454 417920 or e mail sales@dantek.co.uk https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/ to discuss how we can assist you in safeguarding the well-being of your athletes and staff through our specialized expertise. Let us demonstrate how we can be the ideal partner for your compliance needs in the sports industry.
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