WearCheck introduces advanced Legionella testing to safeguard water quality

WearCheck Water, a division of leading condition monitoring specialist, WearCheck,
has expanded its expertise in water analysis with the introduction of Legionella
pneumophila detection and enumeration. This latest development positions
WearCheck at the forefront of water and surface safety monitoring, ensuring
businesses, industries, and public institutions can proactively manage Legionella
contamination risks.

Understanding Legionella: a hidden danger

Legionella bacteria, particularly Legionella pneumophila, are known to cause
Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. The bacteria thrive in warm
water systems, such as cooling towers, industrial water tanks, air conditioning
systems, and plumbing networks. Inhalation of contaminated water droplets—often
dispersed through mist or vapour—can lead to respiratory infections, posing serious
health risks.

The disease primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, the
elderly, and those with underlying lung conditions. In severe cases, pneumonia can
result in hospitalisation or fatal complications, making stringent testing and
monitoring essential in mitigating public health risks.

Sources of Legionella contamination

Legionella bacteria can develop and spread in stagnant water systems, especially
when conditions allow bacterial growth between 20°C and 45°C. Factors that
contribute to contamination include:

• Poor water circulation and stagnant water, allowing bacteria to multiply in
  biofilms.
• Sediment and organic matter accumulation, providing nutrients for bacterial
  growth.
• Inadequate temperature control, encouraging optimal conditions for Legionella
  proliferation.
• Aerosol dispersion through showers, cooling systems, air conditioning,
  ventilation, pools, spas, irrigation systems and fountains, increasing the
  likelihood of human exposure.
• Without regular scientific analysis, Legionella outbreaks can occur unnoticed, posing
  major health and legal liabilities for facility managers, healthcare institutions, and
  businesses.

WearCheck’s scientific approach to Legionella testing

Recognising the growing need for comprehensive water monitoring, WearCheck
Water has established cutting-edge laboratory testing tailored to identifying and
assessing Legionella pneumophila contamination in various water systems.
WearCheck Water’s laboratories:

• Analyse water samples to detect the presence and concentration of
  Legionella pneumophila bacteria.
• Provide information for risk assessments based on bacterial levels and
  environmental conditions as per South African National Standards (SANS)
  893.
• Recommend corrective measures, including disinfection protocols and water
  system maintenance strategies.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards for water safety and public
  health protection based on the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS
  Act), No. 85 of 1993 and HBA Regulations (R1390 of 2001)

WearCheck Water’s testing services cater to industrial sectors, healthcare facilities,
hospitality businesses, and public institutions, offering tailored solutions that ensure
water safety and reduce potential outbreaks.

Neutralising Legionella contamination

Preventative action is key to controlling Legionella risks. WearCheck Water
advocates for proactive measures, including:

1. Regular water system maintenance, ensuring pipes, tanks, and cooling towers
   remain clean and free from biofilms.
2. Temperature regulation, keeping hot water above 60°C and cold water below
   20°C to discourage bacterial growth.
3. Chemical treatments, such as chlorination and biocide applications, to
   eliminate bacteriological colonies.
4. Routine laboratory testing, ensuring early detection and intervention before
   outbreak escalates.

WearCheck Water: setting the standard in water safety

With decades of expertise in condition monitoring, WearCheck has established itself
as a trusted leader in condition monitoring and the scientific analysis of used oil and
other fluids, with extended services which include water safety and quality
assurance.

Through scientific legionella testing, WearCheck Water offers peace of mind to
industries and businesses, providing reliable, accredited testing that ensures
compliance with health and safety standards.

For more information, please visit www.wearcheck.co.za, email
marketing@wearcheck.co.za or call WearCheck South Africa +27 (31) 700-5460.