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Legionella control

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.

Recycled water system in sports facilities

Recycled water system in a sports facilities -Examining the challenges and best practices for managing Legionella and microbial risks in recycled water systems.

As a responsible person overseeing a sports facility, you understand the critical importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of athletes, employees, and visitors. One critical aspect of ensuring safety is managing the risks associated with Legionella bacteria in recycled water systems. In this article, we will explore some example control measures that can be tailored to specific sports facility water systems following a Legionella risk assessment and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Recycled water system in sports facilities – Legionella Risk Assessment:

Before implementing control measures, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive Legionella risk assessment specific to your sports facility’s recycled water systems. This assessment will help identify potential sources of Legionella contamination and evaluate the susceptibility of the system to bacterial growth. Consulting with experts, like Dantek, we can ensure a thorough evaluation and development of an effective control plan.

Example Control Measures for Recycled water system in sports facilities

Temperature Monitoring:

Regular temperature monitoring is a critical control measure to prevent Legionella growth. Specifically, during late spring to late summer, when ambient temperatures tend to rise, monitoring the water temperature becomes even more crucial. It is recommended to keep a close eye on temperatures within the system, ensuring they do not exceed 20°C.

Purging of Pressure Pump, Filter, and Hose:

In the event that temperatures surpass the recommended limit of 20°C, immediate action should be taken to prevent potential Legionella growth. Purging the pressure pump, filter, and hose helps eliminate stagnant water and reduce the risk of bacterial proliferation. This control measure ensures that any potential breeding grounds for Legionella are thoroughly flushed and refreshed.

Flushing and Cleaning:

Develop a routine flushing and cleaning schedule based on the manufacturer’s instructions and the specific requirements of your water system. Flushing stagnant areas and cleaning components, such as hoses, filters, and tanks, helps prevent the buildup of biofilm and bacteria.

Water Sampling and Testing:

While temperature monitoring and purging are important control measures, regular monitoring for Legionella growth should also be conducted. This involves taking water samples from different points within the system and testing them for Legionella presence and concentration. Monitoring enables the early detection of any potential Legionella contamination, allowing for timely corrective action.

Water Treatment:

Depending on the system’s design and characteristics, consider implementing appropriate water treatment methods. These may include UV treatment, chemical disinfection, or other proven techniques to control bacterial growth. Consult experts to determine the most suitable treatment options for your specific system.

Maintenance and Servicing:

Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations for regular maintenance and servicing. This includes tasks such as equipment inspections, filter replacements, and calibration of monitoring devices. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines ensures optimal system performance and identifies any potential issues.

Effectively managing Legionella risks in Recycled water systems in sports facilities requires a tailored approach based on a Legionella risk assessment and the manufacturer’s recommendations. By implementing key control measures such as temperature monitoring, flushing and cleaning, water sampling and testing, water treatment, and regular maintenance and servicing, you can mitigate the risk of Legionella bacteria growth and maintain a safe environment for athletes, employees, and visitors.

Remember, each Recycled water systems in sports facilities are unique, and control measures should be customized based on the Legionella risk assessment and manufacturer’s guidelines. Consulting with experts like Dantek can provide valuable insights and support in developing and implementing an effective Legionella control plan for your sports facility. Prioritize the safety of your facility and take proactive steps to ensure the well-being of all who use it.

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. https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/

Irrigation systems – Legionella contamination

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

In the world of sports, maintaining pristine playing conditions is of utmost importance. From football and cricket to golf and tennis, the quality of the pitch can greatly impact the performance and safety of athletes. One essential component in maintaining these optimal conditions is the irrigation systems. However, it is crucial to recognize that irrigation systems can also pose potential health risks if not properly managed, specifically when it comes to Legionella contamination.

Legionella bacteria, responsible for causing Legionnaires’ disease, can find a conducive environment within irrigation systems, especially during the summer months when temperatures are high. The presence of warm water coupled with the potential for stagnant water makes these systems an ideal breeding ground for Legionella bacteria. This becomes particularly concerning due to the nature of irrigation systems, which create a large breathable aerosol that can carry across the pitch throughout sports stadiums.

It is vital to highlight the potential risks associated with Legionella contamination in irrigation systems and implement preventive measures to safeguard the health and well-being of athletes, staff, and spectators. While chemical control of the irrigation tank may not be feasible as it can cause damage to the pitch’s structure, regular monitoring and sampling should be conducted to ensure early detection of any Legionella presence.

One of the key aspects to understand is how Legionella bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs. When water droplets are dispersed into the air, such as during the operation of irrigation systems, these droplets can be inadvertently inhaled by individuals nearby. This puts susceptible individuals, particularly those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions, at an increased risk of developing Legionnaires’ disease.

To effectively mitigate the risks associated with Legionella contamination in irrigation systems within the sports industry, here are some essential preventive measures that should be implemented:

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning:

Implement a routine maintenance schedule for irrigation systems, ensuring that any potential sources of stagnant water are identified and addressed promptly. Regular cleaning and disinfection of the system will help prevent the growth and spread of Legionella bacteria.

Water Temperature Control:

To minimize the potential accumulation of warm water within the irrigation system, it is essential to install temperature control measures. This can be achieved using temperature sensors and automated controls, ensuring that water temperatures remain outside the optimal range for Legionella growth. Another effective approach is to include your irrigation system in your planned monthly temperature checks, ensuring that any deviations from the desired temperature range are promptly identified and addressed. By actively monitoring and controlling the water temperature, the risk of Legionella proliferation can be significantly reduced.

Adequate Flushing:

To prevent the accumulation of stagnant water, it is crucial to establish a regular flushing regime for the irrigation system. In instances where the system is not fully utilized, thorough flushing before and after each use is recommended. This practice effectively removes any potential contaminants and minimizes the risk of Legionella proliferation. By implementing a proactive flushing routine, the irrigation system remains free from stagnant water, ensuring a safer environment with reduced chances of Legionella contamination.

Water Treatment

Consider incorporating appropriate water treatment methods, such as ultraviolet (UV) disinfection to further reduce the risk of Legionella contamination. However, it is important to ensure that any treatment methods used are suitable for the irrigation system and do not compromise the integrity of the pitch.

Staff Training and Awareness

Educate staff members responsible for operating and maintaining the irrigation system about the risks associated with Legionella bacteria and the importance of implementing preventive measures. Promote a culture of awareness and encourage reporting of any concerns or observations related to the system’s functionality.

Regular Monitoring and Sampling

Conduct routine monitoring and sampling of the irrigation system to detect the presence of Legionella bacteria early on. This can involve collecting water samples from various points within the system and analysing them for Legionella presence through UKAS-accredited laboratory testing.

By taking these proactive steps and placing a strong emphasis on controlling Legionella bacteria within irrigation systems, the sports industry can manage the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in sporting events. At Dantek, we have a team of experts who specialize in assessing and effectively managing the risks associated with Legionella bacteria. We offer customized solutions that cater to your specific needs, ensuring the utmost safety for athletes, staff, and spectators alike. Whether you need assistance in creating a comprehensive maintenance plan, implementing water temperature control measures, or establishing regular monitoring and sampling protocols, our knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way. Rest assured that with our expertise, you can maintain optimal playing conditions while prioritizing the health and safety of all those involved in your sporting events.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part3.pdf

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.

Introducing Chlorine Dioxide

Water Systems in Sports Facilities: Introducing Chlorine dioxide

Introduction Chlorine dioxide:

As experts in water hygiene and Legionella risk management, Dantek provides effective solutions for maintaining clean and safe water systems in sports facilities. In the sports industry, controlling Legionella in water systems is crucial to protect the health and well-being of athletes, staff, and visitors. While temperature control is often the primary method, situations may arise where it is not feasible to control the risk with this method. In these situations, Chlorine dioxide is a highly effective means of control that can be used to make water systems safe to use once again.

The Importance of Chlorine Dioxide Dosage:

Chlorine dioxide dosage has proven to be an extremely effective tool in combating Legionella growth and ensuring water system safety. It eliminates Legionella bacteria, prevents their multiplication, and minimizes the risk of Legionnaires’ disease transmission. In cases where temperature control is challenging or not an option, chlorine dioxide dosage provides a practical and effective solution. In addition to its bactericidal properties it also possesses the capability to remove biofilm. Biofilm is a slimy layer formed by microorganisms that can attach to the inner surfaces of pipes, tanks, and other components within water systems. It provides a protective environment for Legionella bacteria to thrive and multiply, making biofilm control crucial in Legionella management.

Important Considerations for Legionella Control:

Before installing a unit, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive review of the water risk assessment and the existing control regime. This review helps identify potential areas of concern and determines the appropriate dosage requirements for effective Legionella control. In cases where control is lost, certain initial steps should be taken, such as reviewing the number and locations of samples taken and assessing the percentage of failures in the sampling process. It is particularly important to focus on water systems where the treatment regime, including factors like temperature and disinfectant concentrations, is not consistently achieving the desired control levels. Alongside the thorough review of the system and treatment regimes, frequent testing should be carried out, ideally on a weekly basis, to provide early warning signs of control loss. Once the system is successfully brought back under control, as evidenced by monitoring results, it is advisable to reassess the frequency of testing.

Implementing Regular Legionella Testing:

While chlorine dioxide dosage is an effective control measure, it should be complemented with regular legionella testing. Legionella testing serves as an interim safety check until a viable control solution, such as chlorine dioxide dosage, is fully implemented. Regular testing helps monitor the effectiveness of the control measures and ensures the ongoing safety of the water system.

Proven Effectiveness in Legionella Control:

Chlorine dioxide dosage has established itself as a highly effective solution for controlling Legionella in domestic water systems. Its implementation significantly reduces the risk of Legionella contamination, providing reassurance to facility owners and operators.

The benefits of using for Legionella control are numerous:

  1. Reduced Chemical Handling Issues: Chlorine dioxide is derived from relatively safe precursor chemicals, such as CDA (Chlorine Dioxide Activator) and CDB (Chlorine Dioxide Base). These are weak solutions of acid and salt, making them easy to handle and minimizing chemical handling concerns.
  2. Enhanced Oxidative Power: Approximately 2.6 times the oxidative power of chlorine. This increased potency enables it to effectively kill Legionella bacteria within drinking water limits.
  3. Biofilm Removal: Has the ability to remove biofilm, a slimy layer that provides a habitat for Legionella bacteria. By eliminating biofilm, chlorine dioxide disrupts the conditions conducive to Legionella growth, further enhancing the efficacy of Legionella control measures.
  4. On-Site Testing and Safety Verification: It is easy to test for on-site. This enables swift verification of safety through a simple on-site test, providing timely feedback on the effectiveness of Legionella control efforts.
  5. Compliance with Standards: The chemicals used for generation, CDA and CDB, comply with BS EN 1278 standards. This compliance ensures that effective levels of chlorine dioxide can be continuously dosed into drinking water supplies, meeting the necessary regulatory requirements.
  6. Low Ongoing Chemical Costs: CDA and CDB efficiently treat a large volume of water, resulting in cost-effective Legionella control. This helps minimize ongoing chemical expenses associated with maintaining water system safety.
  7. High-Quality Equipment Installation: Dantek provides chlorine dioxide solutions and installs top-of-the-range equipment to ensure the generation of the purest chlorine dioxide. This minimizes the production of by-products like chlorite and chlorate, further enhancing the safety and quality of the treated water.

By leveraging these benefits, chlorine dioxide dosage proves to be a reliable and efficient approach to Legionella control, offering peace of mind to those responsible for the safety of water systems.

Flexible Application:

Dosage can be applied in various water system configurations, making it adaptable to different sports facility settings. Whether it is a small training center or a large stadium, chlorine dioxide dosage can be tailored to suit specific requirements.

Continuous Protection:

Once the dosage is implemented, it provides continuous protection against Legionella growth. By regularly dosing the water system with chlorine dioxide, the risk of Legionella multiplication is effectively minimized, ensuring a safer water supply for athletes and visitors.

System Overview and Installation:

Dantek specializes in the installation of chlorine dioxide units specifically designed to address problematic systems that have tested positive for Legionella. Our units are meticulously engineered to generate automatically, providing a reliable and uninterrupted disinfection process.

To ensure maximum effectiveness, our team of experts conducts a comprehensive site survey, carefully assessing the specific requirements of each installation. This survey helps determine the optimal location for the unit, taking into account factors such as water flow, system design, and accessibility.

We understand that every water system is unique, which is why we offer customizable installation options. These options include integrating pulsed water meters, delayed action ball valves, or CLO2 aqua cells. By incorporating these components, we enable precise dosage control, ensuring the accurate and uniform dispersion throughout the water volume. This meticulous control over chemical dosage enhances the overall efficiency of the disinfection process.

We recognize the importance of correctly sizing the system and understanding the limitations of an installation. This is an area where other contractors often fall short. At Dantek, we prioritize accurate system sizing, ensuring that the unit is appropriately matched to the specific requirements of the water system. By doing so, we maximize the effectiveness of the installation and provide our clients with a solution tailored to their needs.

With our expertise and attention to detail, Dantek delivers reliable and efficient chlorine dioxide installations, addressing Legionella concerns effectively and preventing future occurrences.

Compliance and Safety Measures:

Dantek is dedicated to upholding regulatory guidelines and industry best practices, prioritizing the safety and compliance of our installations. Our proposed system strictly aligns with the recommendations set forth by the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), guaranteeing continuous monitoring of chlorine dioxide levels to remain below the maximum allowable limit.

To ensure the safety and accuracy of the dosage, our system incorporates reliable measuring cells that prevent overdosage. These high-quality measuring cells provide precise and real-time monitoring, allowing for immediate adjustments if necessary. By implementing this safety cut-off system, we prioritize the well-being of both the water system and its users. We handle all aspects of the installation process, providing the necessary materials and skilled labour to ensure a hassle-free experience for our clients.

Rental Units:

To address immediate Legionella control issues, Dantek offers rental chlorine dioxide units that can be swiftly deployed to your sports facility. Renting eliminates the need for significant upfront capital expenses associated with purchasing and installing new equipment, allowing you to allocate your resources more efficiently while benefiting from effective Legionella control measures. Our rental units are designed to achieve and maintain legislative compliance, creating a safe and compliant environment for athletes and visitors. Additionally, chlorine dioxide treatment can lead to reduced running costs, and our rental units generate the highest purity for maximum effectiveness.

By implementing chlorine dioxide dosage as an effective Legionella control measure, sports facilities can ensure clean and safe water systems for athletes, staff, and visitors. Dantek’s expertise in water hygiene and Legionella risk management, along with our tailored solutions and rental units, enables us to support the sports industry in maintaining Legionella-free water systems. Contact our team to learn more and safeguard the health and well-being of everyone in your sports facility.

To learn more about chlorine dioxide units and how they can benefit your facility, contact us today https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/contact-us/ at 01454 417 920 or email sales@dantek.co.uk.

Additional information can be found https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg274part2.pdf

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.

Remedial actions: Do I have to do all of them?

Remedial actions: Do I have to do all of them and how do I choose the correct contractor?

Welcome back to the top 5 problems schools face with legionella risk assessments!

In our last month, I am going to try and help you answer question 5. If you have a problem or question that is not covered, please email holly@dantek.co.uk

Top 5 problems with legionella risk assessments!

  1. April’s Blog: Is your Legionella risk assessment current and when does it need to be updated? How will you know?
  2. April’s Blog: Written scheme. What is it and how do I write one?
  3. May’s Blog: How safe can my school ever be?
  4. May’s Blog: Asset registers. Mind-blowing pages of cold taps, hot taps and mixer valves etc. What’s the point?
  5. June’s Blog: Remedial actions: Do I have to do all of them and how do I choose the correct contractor?
Remedial actions: Do I have to do all of them and how do I choose the correct contractor?

Remedial actions are an essential part of lowering the risk of Legionella following a risk assessment. These actions involve improving the design of your water system and may include removing redundant pipework, cleaning cold water storage tanks, insulating pipework, servicing thermostatic mixer valves, and more. Prioritization of these actions is recommended based on urgency, with some requiring attention within a month, three months, or longer.

It’s worth noting that you don’t necessarily have to complete all the recommended remedial actions if you have budget constraints. By reviewing your risk assessment report, you can determine which actions are necessary to reduce tangible threats and which are tolerable risks.

If you need assistance with your school’s Legionella risk assessment, Dantek can help. We hope our past articles have helped you understand the importance of Legionella risk assessments and the common issues faced while receiving them. Finding a reputable contractor for your school’s needs can be challenging, but the Legionella Control Association (LCA) provides a register of companies that have met their requirements and passed their annual audit of systems.

The LCA’s code of conduct sets out the standard of service a client should expect from a water hygiene provider, requiring them to establish an appropriate management system for controlling Legionella and comply with the latest HSE guidance. By visiting https://www.legionellacontrol.org.uk/directory, you can search for a registered contractor by company or region.

At Dantek, we strive to provide the best service in the industry and act quickly to resolve the most urgent tasks. While we offer national coverage for Legionella risk assessments in schools, we may not be able to maintain our high standards for customers outside our geographic region. We believe in working together with schools as a team to solve problems in the real world.

Supported School Regions all services:

1.    South West

2.    West Midlands

3.    South Wales

 Contracted and one-off services we offer.

1.    Legionella Risk assessments

2.    Cleaning & disinfection of cold-water storage tanks

3.    Temperature monitoring

4.    Calorifier inspections

5.    Showerhead cleaning and disinfection

6.    Thermostatic mixer valve serving and fail-safe testing.

7.    Expansion vessel flushing

8.    Water softener servicing

9.    Closed system analysis.

10. Chlorine dioxide rental service

11. Chlorine dioxide installation and maintenance

12. Sampling (Legionella, TVCC, Pseudomonas)

13. Logbook user training

14. Responsible persons/management training

Included within all our contracts is our free-of-charge electronic logbook for all service users. Contact us now for a free demo.

If you would like to speak to us regarding any of our products or services, please do not hesitate to contact us at 01454 417 920 or e-mail your enquiry to sales@dantek.co.uk where a member of our team is available to help you. Please quote  #SCHOOL’S which will allow our 2022 day rates to be quoted saving you 5%

#legionellacontrolinyourschool #legionellacontrol #riskassessment #legionellariskassessment #teamdantek #legionellaadvice #riskassessmentproblems #safeschools #remedialactions #assetregister #riskassessmentupdate #writtenscheme #legionellacontractorsouthwest #legionellacontratorsouthwales #legionellacontractorwestmidlands

 

Don’t just take my word for the level of service, expertise, and confidence that our team provides. I have included 3 testimonials below. Read what our educational establishments say about us below!

 “As a senior maintenance manager for the University of South Wales I am responsible for 5 campuses, that’s around 1300 student apartments and 60 additional buildings. Dantek carries out Legionella testing and risk assessments for all these including, calorifiers, showers and water tanks. They are a good company to work with and have an excellent online monitoring system which allows them to upload test results for our compliance section to audit online. With Legionella you don’t want to take any risks and Dantek is really good at keeping us informed of what we need to do to keep our water safe and remain compliant. I would happily recommend them.”

Senior Maintenance Manager, University of South Wales

“Dantek manages Legionella control and all related compliance issues for Millfield. As the H&S Advisor I need to rely on the expertise of the companies that I work with. Dantek instils that confidence, if I go to them with any issues they always have the answer.

I also wanted to work with a company that Millfield could build a strong relationship with. The staff are reliable, responsive, honest and polite. If I have any issues they’ll always find the time to discuss them with me in order to find agreed solutions.”

H&S Advisor, Millfield School

“I cannot fault the service and your staff are always well presented and polite”

University of Bath – renewal of showerhead cleaning and disinfection contract

How safe can my School ever be?

Welcome back to the top 5 problems schools face with legionella risk assessments!

This month, I am going to try and help you answer questions 3 and 4. If you have a problem or question that is not covered, please email holly@dantek.co.uk

Top 5 problems with legionella risk assessments!

  1. April’s Blog: Is your Legionella risk assessment current and when does it need to be updated? How will you know?
  2. April’s Blog: Written scheme. What does it mean and how do I write one?
  3. May’s Blog: How safe can my school ever be?
  4. May’s Blog: Asset registers. Mind-blowing pages of cold taps, hot taps and mixer valves etc. What’s the point?
  5. June’s Blog: Remedial actions: Do I have to do all of them and how do I choose the correct contractor?
How safe can my school ever be?

You need to sleep at night knowing that you have done everything that is reasonably practicable to make your school a safe place to learn and grow. Your school can be or already is a safe place and if you follow the advice given by your contractor and local authority it will continue to be.

Legionellosis sounds scary and if not managed life-threatening.  Legionellosis is an illness in humans caused by a bacteria called Legionella. We do not have any figures for 2021 or 2022 yet, and figures from 2020 are distorted by Covid. In 2020 the monthly surveillance reports stopped in October with 295 cases reported in the first 10 months of the year. Legionnaires disease is a real threat and requires real action to be taken.

An assessment of the susceptibility of the site population is a critical part of a Legionella risk assessment, which must be reviewed regularly. This takes us back to staff changes and the mental and physical health of your teachers and staff. Risk factors include Males, Age, heavy smokers, alcohol consumption, no exercise, and underlying diseases such as cancer, organ transplant, etc.

Unfortunately, we have little control over stopping Legionella from getting into our water systems. Contamination from small amounts of this bacteria within the mains water and airborne droplets is inevitable. From a risk analysis point of view, we must assume that our systems will encounter Legionella bacteria at some stage in their life cycle.

Risk Factors

  • Water temperature between 20–45 °C
  • Stored, stagnant and/or re-circulated water
  • A source of nutrients for the organism e.g. presence of sludge, scale, organic materials and rust
  • Water fittings made of certain materials
  • Capacity for aerosol generation
  • Numbers & susceptibility of site population
  • The ability of management to control risk

 Once you have taken the first step in compliance and had your legionella risk assessment completed, your school will be graded like an Ofsted report with the difference of 5 bands.

The reality of the school’s risk from legionella will be the current risk score. Don’t be alarmed, look at the “action to be taken” i.e. risks that can be removed, and then the realistic score for your school following completion of the advised remedial actions.

As you can see from the below example the “New Building” has a current score of 50 which has placed the school into the medium-risk category. By completing the recommended actions, the school or particular academic building will reduce to a low/medium risk with continued monitoring. Be mindful that even the smallest buildings, even if they only have one wash hand basin will be graded with a risk factor.

Risk Summary inc review date

  1. Must be current.
  2. High risk = 6 months
  3. Medium risk = Two years
  4. Low risk = 5 years

 

 

 

Can your school ever be safe from legionella?

Your school may never be free from legionella, but you can manage and control the risk and prevent staff from catching legionnaires disease.  Legionella specialists are available to help you, including Dantek, and by working together as a team we can prevent the harmful effects of water.

  • Keep hot water hot
  • Keep cold water cold
  • Keep the water moving
  • Keep it clean

Consider if special steps need to be taken at different times of the academic year. Half term and summer holidays, resulting in a big change to the use of the school. Very few staff and no pupils, resulting in taps and showers that are used regularly during term time have now been left unused for weeks. This can lead to stagnation of the water which can encourage the growth of legionella and other nasty bacteria. Make plans for who is going to flush those normally used outlets at least weekly during the holidays.

Additional information can be found:

Approved code of practice – https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l8.pdf

HSE website – legal updates & outbreaks https://www.hse.gov.uk/index.htm

HSG274 technical guidance https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/hsg274.htm

Dantek – Advice, services and training https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk

Asset Registers: The Key to Efficient Legionella Risk Assessments in Schools

When it comes to ensuring the safety of students and staff in schools, there are many factors that must be considered. One of these is the potential risk of Legionella bacteria in the water system, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia. To prevent this, schools must conduct regular Legionella risk assessments and take appropriate measures to control the risk.

One crucial aspect of Legionella risk assessments is the creation of an asset register. This is a document that lists all the assets in the water system that could potentially harbor Legionella bacteria, such as cold taps, hot taps, and mixer valves. While this may seem like a mind-numbing task, the importance of maintaining a comprehensive asset register cannot be overstated. It is the foundation of effective Legionella risk management and is essential for record-keeping purposes.

When a Legionella risk assessor arrives at a school, it is important that they have access to all the areas they need to inspect. This can be a challenge, as schools have busy schedules and exam timetables that must be taken into account. To ensure that assessors have the access they need, the operational management team must work with the school to determine which areas the assessors will need to inspect. A clear and detailed asset register is essential for this process, as it will provide a complete list of all the assets that require inspection.

Creating an asset register can seem like a daunting task, especially for schools with multiple buildings and thousands of outlets. However, it is an investment in the safety of students and staff, and there are tools available to make the process easier. On completion of the risk assessment, your assessor will be able to provide you with an asset register in Excel, allowing schools to use filters to sort the data by asset type and location. This makes it easy to identify the sentinel points that need to be monitored and recorded every month.

In addition, schools can choose to go paperless with their water hygiene records by using an electronic logbook. This eliminates the need for paper-based logbooks and makes it easier to track compliance. Many reputable providers offer this service, and some, such as Dantek, provide a free electronic logbook to contracted customers. This logbook includes an automatic asset upload and real-time compliance.

Maintaining a comprehensive asset register is a key element of Legionella risk management in schools. By investing in this process and using tools such as electronic logbooks, schools can ensure the safety of their students and staff while reducing the administrative burden of compliance. To learn more about Legionella risk assessments in schools or to schedule a free demonstration of Dantek’s electronic logbook, visit our website or call our friendly team.

#legionellacontrolinyourschool #legionellacontrol #riskassessment #legionellariskassessment #teamdantek #legionellaadvice #riskassessmentproblems #safeschools #remedialactions #assetregister #riskassessmentupdate #writtenscheme #legionellacontractorsouthwest #legionellacontratorsouthwales #legionellacontractorwestmidlands #electroniclogbook

Contact us for more information or to book a free demonstration.
Our website is a great tool for local services, FAQs, sectors, and price guides. please visit https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/sectors/schools/ for further information or contact our friendly team on 01454 417920 or email sales@dantek.co.uk quoting reference, SCHOOL23 which will allow 5% discount for new customers.

Written scheme of control template

Stop searching for a solution, because Dantek has you covered! Our custom-written scheme of control template offers a clear path to compliance with HSG274. Don’t become part of the 63% of HSE prosecutions due to lack of a written scheme of control. Take charge of your Legionella management with our easy-to-use template, tailored to your site with fields in blue for personalisation. Get peace of mind knowing you have a plan in place for prevention, execution, and emergency response. Ensure compliance today with Dantek’s custom written scheme of control template.
At Dantek, we understand the importance of managing Legionella risks and ensuring the safety of all members of the community. That’s why we are pleased to offer a custom written scheme of control template as an optional extra following a Legionella risk assessment.
This live document provides clear, easy-to-follow steps for managing Legionella risks on a site-specific basis. However, it’s important to note that this template is not considered suitable and sufficient by enforcing authorities without input, amendment, and ownership from your School’s management team, specifically the statutory duty holder and responsible person.
It is the responsibility of the statutory duty holder and responsible person to review the information in this document and add or revise text to ensure it accurately reflects how the school operates the management of the control scheme for Legionella risk.
The written scheme template specifies the control measures to prevent the growth and proliferation of Legionella bacteria, describes how to implement and execute the control measures, describes how the School will allocate and manage the control tasks, describes procedures for shutdown and commissioning, and outlines how the School intends to respond under fault or emergency conditions.
To ensure that your written scheme of control meets all necessary requirements, please refer to appendix 2.2, page 55, of HSG274 part 2 for a summary of the requirements of a written scheme. It’s crucial to complete the fields in blue text, as these must be filled in by the responsible person or statutory duty holder.
At Dantek, we are committed to providing comprehensive solutions for Legionella risk management. If you have any questions or concerns about your written scheme of control, please don’t hesitate to contact us for support. Our team is always ready to assist you and ensure that your School remains safe and compliant. Call our team on 01454 417 920

The top problems your school will face with a legionella risk assessment.

Hi, my name is Holly, and I have been a part of the Dantek team for over 14 years. In the upcoming months, I will be discussing the common problems schools face when it comes to legionella risk assessments, I am going to be talking about the top problems your school will face with legionella risk assessments, being open and honest throughout. Dantek has over 20 years of experience with an excellent, dedicated, and qualified team of field-based technicians, legionella risk assessors, and water treatment specialists.

Your school needs to consider all risks, consequently, you may feel you are drowning in risk assessments which the water risk assessment is just one!

Having two young children in school I can see how hard the staff work. Not just the teachers but everyone, support staff, cleaners, and maintenance. The entire school is based around a profound team who works together to allow pupils to succeed and have a safe space to learn.

I don’t know the first thing about running a school or teaching a class of 30 energetic pupils, but I do know that I want to help you to make one of the tasks on your desk a little easier to understand and manage.

Top problems with a legionella risk assessment!

Being a responsible person in a school is hard work and the pile-up of multiple risk assessments never seems to end. Your number one main priority is to make your school a safe place for your pupils, staff, and visitors. As legionella control specialists we know the frustrations that are felt! Split properties across your campus including sports halls, residential blocks, catering facilities, and frankly any building that has a tap-in it!

Needs must! This has now resulted in a huge document on your desk plus multiple smaller versions you now must read and make sense of.  The feeling of being overwhelmed, frustrated, cross, and bored springs to mind.

Top 5 problems with legionella risk assessments!

  1. April’s Blog: Is your Legionella risk assessment current and when does it need to be updated? How will you know?
  2. April’s Blog: Written scheme. What is it and how do I write one?
  3. May’s Blog: How safe can my school ever be?
  4. May’s Blog: Asset registers. Mind-blowing pages of cold taps, hot taps and mixer valves etc. What’s the point?
  5. June’s Blog: Remedial actions: Do I have to do all of them and how do I choose the correct contractor?

This month, I am going to try and help you answer questions 1 and 2. If you have a problem or question that is not covered, please email holly@dantek.co.uk 

Problem No 1 – Is your Legionella risk assessment current and when does it need to be updated? How will you know?

All risk assessments are classed as a “working document” and under current guidelines, a risk assessment must be carried out whenever the Approved code of practice L8 and guidance applies.

What does that mean? 

Legionella risk assessment front page! A resurvey date is initially controlled by the attending risk assessor, based on site-specific findings, A simple risk score is then generated. High, medium, and low. Your resurvey date could be in the range of 6 months to 5 years.

That’s not where it ends. Just because you have had a legionella risk assessment completed and the resurvey date clearly states 24 months from now, doesn’t mean that it won’t be required sooner. Simple amendments to the working document may be required, or a brand-new assessment dependent on school changes.

  • To put it simply, if your school decides to change the math block, into an additional shower block for the growing sports hall, you will need a new assessment. This is known as “A change to any of the assessed water systems or its use”.
  • 3 months have passed and calorifier 1 in the science block has not been achieving 60°C and your outlet temperatures are within the primary growth range. Your control regime is indicating that control is not being achieved. A review is needed.
  • A simple staff change. The statutory duty holder was Miss Cox and is now Mrs. Harris. Site responsibility used to be Mr. West, but, he has now retired, and Miss Davies has been appointed. These key personnel changes have now made your assessment enter the “review” stage.

Always remember that the legionella risk assessment is a working document and must be current.

My top tip! Add your legionella risk assessment to your to-do planner, 6 monthly or annually (Dependent on risk) ask yourself these 6 questions.

  1. Have any alterations been made to the water systems?
  2. Has there been changes in the use of the system or the school?
  3. Has there been any key personnel changes or any that are due to occur?
  4. Have there been changes to the results of tests indicating that the control measures are no longer effective, or has new information about risks or control measures become available?
  5. Is my initial risk assessment review date still valid?
  6. Is the school’s responsible person up to date with training?

In the occurrence of a suspected or confirmed school outbreak or individual case of Legionella associated with the water system, review your risk assessment and written scheme immediately.

Problem No 2 – Written scheme. What does it mean and how do I write one?

You have recently had your legionella risk assessment completed and managed to make headway on the document between your countless emails from parents, maintaining academic success and broadening your school curriculum. Once a quarter you will be sat in front of the school governors and need to advise what are the next steps following your legionella risk assessment. A written scheme!

What is a written scheme? A written scheme of control for the control of legionella is a comprehensive risk management document that clearly identifies the measures required to control the risk of exposure to legionella bacteria, and how those measures are implemented and managed so that control over water systems is achieved and maintained.

Which means… Explain in detail how your school will manage the measures you have implemented to control the risk of legionella and who is responsible.

  1. Roles & responsibilities i.e. Who has overall responsibility for the safety of all members of the school community? Who manages the day-to-day implementation of the policy? Who is the Responsible person, and statutory site duty holder?
  2. What are the risks and how will the control tasks be implemented?
  3. Water hygiene provider contact details if applicable.
  4. Record keeping.
  5. Audit of control regime and noncompliance escalation process.
  6. Schematic drawing.
  7. Plant shutdown procedures.
  8. Risk assessment review procedure.
  9. Emergency procedures in the event of an outbreak or suspected outbreak of Legionella.

In the occurrence of a suspected or confirmed school outbreak or individual case of Legionella associated with the water, review your risk assessment and written scheme immediately.

Management & control flow chart example

  1. Governing board (If singular school) or Federation governing board (If multiple schools)
  2. Director
  3. Chief operations officer
  4. Director of estates
  5. Operations Manager
  6. Maintenance Supervisor
  7. Estate trade staff
If you require additional support, please contact me and I will be more than happy to provide a written scheme of control template. holly@dantek.co.uk
Our website is a great tool for local services, FAQs, sectors, and price guides. please visit https://www.dantekenvironmental.co.uk/sectors/schools/ for further information or contact our friendly team on 01454 417920 or e mail sales@dantek.co.uk quoting reference, SCHOOL23 which will allow 5% discount for new customers.

#legionellacontrolinyourschool #legionellacontrol #riskassessment #legionellariskassessment #teamdantek #legionellaadvice #riskassessmentproblems #safeschools #remedialactions #assetregister #riskassessmentupdate #writtenscheme #legionellacontractorsouthwest #legionellacontratorsouthwales #legionellacontractorwestmidlands

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