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Admin  
#1 Posted : 09 May 2008 13:38:00(UTC)
Rank: Guest
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Posted By Anthony Edwards
Hi there,

I am after some advice with regards to Legionella testing.

Para 64 of L8 states that Legionella bacteria is difficult to detect, and that a negative test is no guarantee that legionella is present. Conversely a positive result does not mean a failure of control methods as legionella are present in almost all natural water.

I conducted a risk assessment, the premises has 6 showers (cleaned every 3 months), dead ends flushed weekly. Water is mains supply, tanks inspected 6 monthly, hot water is above 60 deg C in system and 50 within a minute at taps, cold below 20 within 1 minute.

I feel that the controls are sufficient especially considering the statement from L8, but a colleague says he would test for Legionella to 'cover his back'!!! I say that the risk assessment shows it's not required.

Any thoughts?

Have a good weekend

Nutty
Admin  
#2 Posted : 09 May 2008 14:11:00(UTC)
Rank: Guest
Admin

Posted By Jeff Manion
With your comments you are in the best place.

Water mains in to the tanks should be considered i.e. mains water. If yes risk is low.

Ensure the water storage cold remains clean and cool, water turnover as quick as possible.

Ensure the water storage hot remains clean and hot, water turnover as slow as possible.

Water sampling for legionella does produce misleading results.

Lack of management monitoring has resulted in outbreaks i.e. not following the protocol (control measures).

JM

Admin  
#3 Posted : 09 May 2008 14:13:00(UTC)
Rank: Guest
Admin

Posted By Sean Warburton
I would to be honest, and it's quite low cost really. It's not so much about covering your back (but it helps) but more about ensuring your control measures are working correctly, i think the L8 guidance says quarterly.

Hope that helps

Sean
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