When people think about Legionella they think of showers and tanks, but any equipment connected to the water supply can be part of the picture, including ice machines, drinks dispensers, coffee machines and misting equipment. They should be covered by your Legionella risk assessment.
Why they matter
These units hold or pass water, sometimes at temperatures that can allow bacteria to grow, and they can be hard to see inside. If they are not cleaned and maintained, build-up can develop. Where they release water as a spray or mist, people may breathe it in.
Sensible precautions
- Follow the manufacturer cleaning and descaling instructions, and keep a record.
- Flush or run units that are used rarely.
- Replace filters and cartridges at the intervals recommended.
- Clean and disinfect parts that touch water or ice, using appropriate products.
- Make sure someone is responsible for the task.
Include them in your records
List these items in your Legionella logbook along with the cleaning and checks carried out.
Sampling
Whether a particular unit should be sampled depends on your risk assessment. See how often Legionella sampling should be done.
The wider context
The HPSC National Guidelines for the Control of Legionellosis in Ireland (2009) take a whole-system view, and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 requires employers to manage workplace risks.
Need help?
Call Safer Solutions on 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie to include your equipment in a Legionella risk assessment.