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Here at Acorn Safety Services, we’re huge advocates of being proactive in monitoring your water systems and keeping abreast of regular checks to keep all water users safe.
Which is why we always celebrate World Water Monitoring Day, today, Friday 18th September.
The international annual campaign aims to raise awareness of water monitoring and protecting the world’s water resources.
Sadly, many people around the world do not have access to clean, safe drinking water, nor the resources to be able to change it. Here in the UK, we do have this privilege, which makes it even more important to look after it. Water is essential for life.
Legionella awareness
In this country, one of the biggest threats to our water systems is legionella bacteria, which can thrive unseen in any water system.
Legionella bacteria can cause a severe lung infection known as Legionnaires’ disease.
You can contract Legionnaires’ disease if you breathe in tiny droplets of water containing bacteria that cause the infection. According to the NHS, Legionnaire’s is usually caught in places like hotels, hospitals or offices where the bacteria have got into the water supply and it is less common to catch it at home, however it can come from hot tubs or taps and showers that are not used often.
Symptoms include a cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, a high temperature and a flu-like feeling.
Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria such as legionella, so it is important to keep it moving in the water system and check it regularly.
Monitoring water can prevent bacteria from forming. It also ensures any problems are caught quickly and dealt with effectively.
How to help with #WorldWaterMonitoringDay
Educate yourself on the small, simple measures you can take to ensure your water is clean and safe for consumption or bathing in.
Weekly flushing is crucial in water management to ensure that the water doesn’t lay stagnant and instead is regularly moving around the system. If it stays still and the temperature is between 20°C to 45°C (68°F to 113°F) it becomes perfect conditions for legionella to grow.
Whether you’re at home or in a business setting, in order to avoid Legionella bacteria, all water outlets should be flushed weekly. In a business setting, this should be documented weekly by a nominated, competent health and safety person. At home, ensure that any showers or taps are run weekly for at least a few minutes and disinfected once a quarter to avoid limescale which can clog the nozzles and encourage bacteria. Don’t forget the garden hose too!
Workplaces should also be aware of thermostatic mixing valves, a T-shaped device that sits under a wash hand basin or a sink in highly used properties such as schools or care homes. The valve combines hot and cold water into a manageable temperature so reduces the risk of scalding. However, the temperature means it can be a potential legionella risk if not closely monitored.
Our certified experts can help safeguard your premises from health hazards associated with legionella bacteria, today on World Water Monitoring Day and every day.
Contact us for more information on 01604 344621.
