The Crucial Role of Regular Flushing
Water systems play a fundamental role in our daily lives, whether in our homes, offices, or commercial buildings. Yet, hidden within these systems lurks a potential threat that demands our attention – Legionella bacteria, known for causing the severe illness, Legionnaires’ disease. Duty holders and facility managers carry the responsibility of safeguarding water quality and ensuring Legionella doesn’t find a breeding ground.
Why Regular Flushing Matters
Water flushing regimes are a cornerstone of water safety, especially in larger buildings with complex water systems. Legionella thrives in warm, stagnant water, making regular flushing a vital prevention measure. But what exactly is water flushing, and why is it essential?
The Flushing Process
Water flushing is a strategic method used to prevent conditions conducive to Legionella and bacterial growth in hot and cold water systems. Its benefits are manifold:
Introducing Fresh Water
Temperature Control
Biofilm Disruption
A well-designed flushing regime ensures that all stagnant water is expelled, promoting the circulation of fresh water.
When Flushing Becomes Necessary
While maintaining the ideal water temperature and flow is the best prevention, circumstances can challenge this ideal. Events like the recent Covid-19 pandemic and fast-changing lockdowns posed unique challenges in maintaining water system integrity. Additionally, when your water system hasn’t been used for an extended period, such as after a fortnight’s holiday, it’s advisable to run taps, showers, and outside taps.
A common defence against Legionella is temperature control, with strict guidelines for hot and cold water. However, certain situations necessitate flushing regimes, ensuring water flows at optimal temperatures and doesn’t stagnate.
Frequency Matters
Regular flushing is typically recommended weekly, with more frequent flushing in high-risk environments such as healthcare facilities. Extended periods of water system inactivity, like building closures, may also require increased flushing.
Several factors signal the need for a flushing regime:
System Age and Condition: Older systems accumulate sediment, requiring regular flushing to maintain performance.
Water Quality Issues: High mineral levels or contaminants can affect system efficiency, necessitating flushing to restore water quality.
System Inefficiencies: Signs like reduced flow rates, inconsistent temperatures, or clogs indicate the need for flushing to alleviate issues.
Flushing addresses these problems, ensuring smooth operation, water quality, and system efficiency.
Why Legionella Prevention Matters
Legionella can lead to severe health consequences, including Legionnaires’ disease. Neglecting prevention can have dire consequences, both in terms of health and financial liability.
How Flushing Works
Flushing contributes to Legionella prevention by:
Disrupting Biofilms: It disrupts and removes biofilms, reducing the presence of Legionella bacteria.
Maintaining Temperature: Flushing at temperatures outside of Legionella’s growth range prevents bacterial proliferation.
Preventing Stagnation: Continuous circulation minimises water stagnation, reducing bacterial growth opportunities.
Removing Sediment: Flushing removes sediment that serves as a nutrient source for Legionella.
Flushing Best Practices
Flushing is more than just turning on a tap; it involves:
1. Safe Water Disposal
2. Aerosol Minimisation
3. Record-Keeping
4. Training
5. System Assessment
In Summary
A water flushing regime is a linchpin of good water hygiene and Legionella prevention. By following best practices and maintaining accurate records, you can ensure comprehensive flushing, promoting water quality, mitigating risks, and prioritising the wellbeing of occupants.
However, it’s essential to understand that flushing is just one aspect of Legionella prevention and overall water treatment. A holistic approach ensures safer water systems and healthier environments.
Legionella Awareness Training
If you are interested in furthering your knowledge on legionella prevention and awareness, we offer an informative and user-friendly online legionella awareness course on the website.
