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Water – an essential for human life and a vital resource that we are all guilty of taking for granted.
But ensuring the water in our taps remains pure and safe enough to drink and bathe in takes a huge amount of effort, something which is highlighted every year on World Water Monitoring Day.
Each year more than 150 countries come together on September 18 to educate and raise awareness of the need to monitor supplies regularly to ensure they are free from pollution and contamination.
But how can you make sure that the water flowing into your home or office is the safest it can be?
Acorn Safety Services explains more.
What is World Water Monitoring Day and how can I get involved?
World Water Monitoring Day was first held in America in 2003 and is organised by the charity, EarthEco International.
During September, the charity encourages people to take part by testing the water in their supply, or by contacting their local water company if they do not have access to the source. More than 1,500,000 people from 146 countries have already taken part in the challenge, as part of World Water Monitoring Day, and added their findings to EarthEcho’s monitoring page.
Regularly checking the supply to your business is just as important, particularly when it comes to keeping yourself and your colleagues safe. Testing for legionella should take place regularly as a part of your health and safety programme and not just as part of World Water Monitoring Day.
What is legionella and why is it dangerous?
Legionella bacteria is microscopic and can be found in streams, rivers, reservoirs and ponds where they don’t cause any problems. Problems arise if these tiny bacteria get trapped inside your water system and multiply, potentially leading to Legionnaires’ Disease if the droplets are ingested.
According to the Government, there were 503 cases of Legionnaires’ Disease in the UK in 2019. It’s a serious illness which can be fatal – symptoms to be aware of include fever, headache, cough and shortness of breath.
While legionella bacteria can cause problems anywhere given the right conditions, some areas such as places where water is stored or recirculated, where the water temperature is between 20-45°C or where rust, sludge, scale and organic matters are present, are considered to be at much higher risk.
So what can I do about it?
Earlier this year, Acorn Safety Services launched a new legionella bacteria service, offering risk assessments and testing to help businesses, charities and organisations protect themselves from legionella.
Employers, the self-employed, facilities managers, health and safety officers and landlords, all have a duty to protect people against the risks associated with legionella bacteria.
A full Legionella Risk Assessment carried out by one of our qualified assessors is the first important step in identifying and assessing your individual risk.
The survey will look for any non-Water Regulations Approval Scheme approved fittings, assess your cold water tank and conditions in your hot water cylinder and accessibility to all areas that require monitoring and maintenance by law.
At the end of the assessment, you will receive a full report which will include any advice about remedial work and repairs and steps you should take next.
We also offer a free online portal where our clients can store their risk assessment documents safely and securely online ensuring they are fully accessible whenever you need them.
With World Water Monitoring Day just days away why not got in touch with us today to book your appointment. You’ll be joining millions of others as they take steps to protect their supply and giving yourself peace of mind for the future.
For more information about World Water Monitoring Day follow the hashtag #WorldWaterMonitoringDay
For all your Legionella safety needs visit legionellarisks.co.uk today or contact us at info@acornhealthandsafety.co.uk or on 01604 930380.