Dental surgeries use water in a different way from most buildings. Narrow tubing in dental chairs, handpieces and scalers produces sprays and mists close to patients, and water can sit in those lines overnight and at weekends.
Why dental settings are worth a closer look
- Narrow tubing gives bacteria a large surface to grow on.
- Water sits still when the practice is closed.
- Sprays and mists are produced during treatment.
- Patients may be vulnerable, such as older people or those with weaker immunity.
- Hand wash basins and sinks may be rarely used in some rooms.
Practical steps
- Include dental water lines in your legionella risk assessment, alongside the building’s main water system.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for flushing, disinfection and any water treatment on dental units.
- Flush lines at the start of the day and between patients, as your procedures set out, and keep a record.
- Check taps and sinks in treatment and decontamination rooms, and flush little-used ones.
- Keep records in your legionella logbook.
- Review after changes, such as new equipment or a refit.
Your duties
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must manage risks to health. The HPSC national guidelines for the control of legionellosis in Ireland give practical advice on controlling legionella in water systems.
Talk to Safer Solutions
A legionella risk assessment for your practice looks at the whole water system. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie for a friendly chat. See how to read a legionella risk assessment report.