Ensuring water hygiene in drinking water installations is crucial to protect the health of residents. Preventing Legionella, dreaded bacteria, is a central task. In this article, we will delve into effective measures for Legionella prevention in drinking water systems.
1. What are Legionella, and why are they dangerous? Legionella are gram-negative bacteria that can be found in natural water sources. However, they become a threat when they proliferate in artificial water pipelines, especially in warm water. Legionella cause Legionnaires' disease, leading to serious health issues.
2. Risk Factors for Legionella Growth:
Hot Water Preparation: Legionella thrive particularly well in warm water. The optimal temperature range for their growth is between 25 and 45 degrees Celsius.
Stagnation: Still water in pipes or storage provides ideal conditions for Legionella multiplication.
Deposits and Biofilm: Legionella can settle in deposits and biofilm on the inner walls of pipes.
3. Effective Prevention Measures:
Temperature Control: Maintain the hot water temperature above 60 degrees Celsius to kill Legionella. Simultaneously, cold water temperatures should be kept below 20 degrees Celsius to prevent growth.
Regular Flushing: Regular flushing prevents standing water in the pipes, reducing Legionella growth.
Avoidance of Deposits: The use of filters and regular cleaning of water pipes can minimize deposits and biofilms.
Professional Maintenance: Regular inspections by professionals ensure that the entire system complies with current standards.
Conclusion: Preventing Legionella in drinking water installations requires a proactive approach. Through temperature control, regular flushing, and professional maintenance, we can contribute to ensuring water hygiene and minimizing the risk of Legionella infections. Conscious implementation of these measures is crucial to protect the health of users and simultaneously meet legal requirements.
