Sumps at the bottom of water towers can accumulate detritus while collecting the warm water used in the cooling process. This provides an environment for bacterial growth and there is a risk that fine water droplets escaping the towers could carry infections including Legionella pneumophila into the local environment.
It is a legal requirement for operators and owners of cooling towers to keep them clean and demonstrate that they have been treated with suitable disinfectants. This is usually required every six months, with an L8 certificate (referring to the Health and Safety Executive Legionella control code of practice) issued by the cleaning contractor on completion of work.
Companies are also legally required to have a Legionella risk assessment for all water systems within workplaces or ones that might affect members of the general public.
Contact: Hygiene Group
Tel: 0800 731 4893