Smart measures against legionella

As many buildings enter summer mode with reduced activity and low water consumption, the risk in water systems also increases. Stagnant water over time provides good growth conditions for legionella bacteria – especially in internal hot and cold water networks.

It’s a well-known fact that facilities that have been unused must be cleaned and disinfected before they are used again. Yet we see that this is often either not done – or not done well enough.

– “Many people implement measures, but they don’t necessarily have the desired effect. This quickly leads to more resource consumption than risk reduction,” says Marte Singsås Dragset, Water Manager at Apurgo.

Measures that do not work – or work too poorly

In practice, there are several classic pitfalls. Superficial flushing, lack of cleaning before disinfection and insufficient temperature or coverage in the system allow bacterial growth to continue undisturbed.

Apurgo points to one recurring theme in particular:
Hot water flushing as a “quick fix”.

This is often done without first removing the biofilm, which greatly reduces the effect.

– It’s a bit like polishing your car without washing it first,” she points out.

The result is that you spend time, energy and water – without achieving the necessary hygienic effect. The reality is that many people either do not follow this requirement, or that the execution is too poor, so that the desired effect is not achieved.

Summer = critical time

Summer is one of the most important times to keep water systems under control. When buildings are partially or completely empty for several weeks, ideal conditions are created for growth.

Therefore, buildings that are closed for the summer should have a clear plan before, during and after closure:

• Map risks in your facility
• Ensure proper cleaning before disinfection
• Implement measures that actually cover the entire facility
• Have a plan for a safe start-up after vacation

From routine to effect

The message is simple: It’s not enough to “do something” – you have to do it right.

With increasing focus on sustainability and resource use, it’s also important to ask the question: Do the measures actually have an effect, or are they just a cost?

– Properly implemented measures provide both better safety and more efficient operations. The wrong measures provide neither security nor value,” says Marte.