Legionella reclamation

Legionella reclamation

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As part of the “Legionellosis” risk analysis and management, it is advisable to draw up an ad hoc prevention plan for the structure, with the development of a register for the documentation of the ordinary and overtime risk assessment and maintenance interventions, on water and air conditioning systems. A Manager must be appointed with adequate training and knowledge of not only the main critical points on which to intervene, but also how to limit the main risk factors. Each structure in which there are plants potentially at risk of legionellosis must therefore comply with a specific protocol that considers the most recent regulatory developments, in consideration of the fact that the problem is not only of public health but also in relation to occupational exposure in the workplace.

The main facilities of exposure where it is possible to find a potential exposure to Legionella are:

  • Healthcare facilities (hospitals and clinics)
  • Spa facilities and Wellness centers
  • Tourist accommodation facilities (Hotels, Campsites, Restaurants etc.)
  • Sport centers
  • Industrial sites
  • Shopping centers
  • Ships
  • Trains
  • Private residences

The main sources of infection are:

  • Cooling towers
  • Water and aeraulic systems
  • Whirlpools and jacuzzi
  • Humidifiers
  • Pools for swimming and rehabilitation use

It is advisable to proceed with the cleaning and maintenance of the aforementioned systems at least once or twice a year, also depending on the type of structure in which they are installed.

  • water temperature between 20 and 45 °C
  • stagnation or poor exchange of water
  • high concentration of microbes, including algae, amoebae, mucilage and other bacteria
  • presence of biofilm, encrustations, sediments, sludge, rust or other organic matter
  • degraded plumbing materials, such as rubber fittings, which can provide nutrients to increase bacterial growth.