With the onset of summer holidays, the attention of school Duty Holders, including Head Teachers, Business Managers, and Maintenance Managers, shifts towards ensuring the safety of water systems, particularly against Legionella bacteria. At STRATUS9 CONSULTING LTD, we recognise the critical importance of this responsibility and aim to provide guidance on effective Legionella risk management during these periods of reduced building use.
Understanding Legionella Risks in Schools:
The design and installation of water systems in schools are typically in line with best practices. However, the challenge arises during holidays when certain parts of the building are unused, increasing the risk of water stagnation and Legionella proliferation.
Key Strategies for Legionella Prevention:
Effective water management during holidays involves two main strategies:
- Preventing Water Stagnation: Ensure regular water turnover to avoid stagnation, which is a primary factor for Legionella growth.
- Temperature Control: Maintain cold water temperatures below 20°C and hot water above 60°C (or at least not below 50°C at the outlet) to prevent conditions conducive to bacterial growth.
Importance of Regular Maintenance and Monitoring:
Planned preventative maintenance and monitoring schedules should address the challenges posed by unused water outlets. It’s essential to incorporate these outlets into the overall water safety strategy to prevent Legionella contamination.
Guidance for Mothballing Buildings:
For buildings like schools that are intermittently used, reviewing HSG274 Part 2, Paragraph 2.50 is crucial. This guideline offers practical advice for managing buildings during periods they are out of regular use, or ‘mothballed’.
Implementing a Legionella Flushing Regime:
During the summer break, it’s vital to implement a flushing regime for Legionella control. Outlets used less than once per week should be flushed at least weekly, with higher-risk premises requiring more frequent flushing. A thorough risk assessment will determine the specific needs of each school’s water system.
In Conclusion:
As schools break for the summer, it’s imperative to maintain vigilance in water safety practices. STRATUS9 CONSULTING LTD emphasizes the need for robust Legionella risk assessments and control measures to safeguard the health of both students and staff. By adhering to these guidelines, schools can ensure a safe and healthy return to their premises.