Legionella Prevention in Hospitals
Legionella Management and Hospitals
Legionella has been a growing concern for facilities with complex water systems recently, and especially healthcare facilities, with more and more businesses being required or advised to develop a water management plan specifically to defend against legionella. The bacterium can be found in nature but can also develop in complex water systems if the water is not treated correctly. Once inside, the bacteria can multiply and be spread through the system and potentially infect people through common water applications. Because hospitals house overnight patients, the elderly, and patients with compromised immune-systems, they more at risk than other facilities. The best way to manage legionella and protect liability is with a water management plan.
Legionella Basics
Legionella:
-
- • Is found in nature, but…
- • Can develop in complex water systems.
- • Can cause Legionnaire’s Disease, which is potentially life-threatening.
- • Can be managed by a water treatment professional.
Those most at-risk include:
- • People over the age of 50.
- • People with already weakened immune systems.
- • Those with chronic illnesses.
Legionella can be spread by:
- • Showers and sinks.
- • Cooling towers.
- • Ice machines.
- • Decorative fountains or water features.
- • Anywhere where water may be aerosolized (misted).
Legionella in Hospitals and Other Healthcare Facilities
Legionella can develop in most water systems, but because hospitals and other healthcare facilities that house overnight patients, patients over the age of 50 and patients with potentially compromised immune systems, they are highly encouraged to have a Legionella management plan.
Furthermore many facilities are required to have a plan to manage legionella according to local and national requirements. FCT Water can help create a plan that remains compliant with any requirements to ensure liability is minimized and water is safe and sanitary.
For More Information
Check out the CDC Vital Signs Report and ASHRAE Standard 188, which offer insight into new standards regarding water system maintenance and the dangers of Legionella in complex water systems. As these new standards become more widely accepted and even required by many facilities across the United States, it is in the best interest of healthcare facilities such as hospitals to develop water management plans and procedures if they haven’t done so already. The only real way to prevent Legionella and other major issues associated with un-managed water is with effective water treatment. If you believe that your facility might be at risk, please feel free to contact FCT Water using the form at the bottom of the page. We’d love to hear from you!