Rank: Super forum user 
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Sorry if that has been asked before, but the search function did not throw anything up for me.
We have a couple of small polishing/linishing machines that have a small reservoir of water to act as coolant. Reviewing the RA revealed that this system is not subjected to any testing in terms of legionella. Would it be sufficient to make sure that the water was filled, used and then drained after each use - or would we still need to disinfect the system periodically? The water is mains cold water (not sure of temp though) from a tap used to fill the tank.
I have had a quick look at the HSE guidance (indg458) but could not see immediately a similar scenario, any advice/pointers would be gratefully received.
Thanks
Stuart
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Rank: Super forum user 
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Stuie
does the tank get emptied and cleaned on a regular basis? I was involved in a legionella investigation a few years ago and we sampled some cooling water used in a glass making company just because it was in the area where premises was being tested. The water was sprayed onto the glass to cool it (don't remember why id did not crack) and then recollected to use again. Because of the temperatures involved we did not think we would find anything just doing the test out of completeness. Were amazed to find legionella in the tank and therefore potentially being in the aerosol spray. Have always treated any reserve tank with caution since then.
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Rank: Forum user
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Stuie
I've sent you a PM.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Thanks Brian and Blue; no the system (holds 35-40 litres) is not (at the moment at least) emptied or cleaned regularly, however that was what I was wondering - would this be sufficient? What about the filters that are in the unit would they have to be changed too?
As we have a coolant in there too changing daily this may be expensive??
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Rank: Super forum user
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Stuie
What temperature does the water in the tank get to? It is possible to get a bio film build up on the walls of the tank which if the water temperature is correct could allow legionella to grow, even though your using tap water as a source. If this water is then presented as an aerosol you could have all the condition needed for an outbreak. I have made a number of assumptions to reach this comment.
You really need to understand your water system and the hazards associated before you decide on the controls. There are lots of things that you might need to do but without fully understanding the system its difficult to say. My gut feeling is draining each day alone is not enough.
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Rank: Super forum user 
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I can't really picture the machine that you are using or the process but as a starting point, have you considered the following?
Is the water at a temperature where L is likely to proliferate?
Are there any other factors that would assist in the proliferation of L?
Does the machine/process produce a breathable droplets?
If so are these likely to be within the breathing zone?
If so are vulnerable people exposed
In the absence of some sort of definitive answer from others, consideration of the above might help point you in the right direction.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Brian Hagyard wrote: Were amazed to find legionella in the tank and therefore potentially being in the aerosol spray.
Being as legionella is naturally occuring in water finding legionella bacteria should never be a suprise should it? It's the quantities of bacteria that matter, hence controls to stop the bacteria from multiplying. I assume you meant you had found a high level of legionella bacteria?
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