HOTELS & HOSPITALITY
bacteria is liable to travel back up and into the water system. In a critical care environment, such as a hospital, this could be very serious.
FMs working in this field should consider a system that heats up the nozzle to 110°C every 90 minutes and prevents bacteria travelling through the dispense nozzle into the cooler itself – acting as a thermal disinfectant. Often hospital patients are encouraged to drink at least one litre of water a day and it is vital bacteria risks are minimised.
Ice bank refrigeration Temperature plays a prominent role in the spread of bacteria. It is important to invest in high performance ice bank refrigeration that helps water remain cool and is capable of delivering large quantities of chilled water per hour.
Networking water A system with a master control unit (MCU) which pumps water through the building will ensure it is fresh and reduces the chances of stagnant water - which encourages bacteria growth. This type of system networks drinking water in the same way as the internet would be networked. Adequately insulating the pipes which distribute the water also minimises the spread of unwanted germs.
SPECIFYING SAFE SYSTEMS Specifying drinking water equipment is an
important decision for Facilities Managers. Without appropriate mechanisms there is
the potential for a proliferation of bacteria and contamination, says Jason Saville, Commercial Director, BRITA Vivreau.
There are six crucial considerations for Facilities Managers when choosing a system:
Micron filters By choosing appropriate filters, FMs reduce the chances of bacteria entering the drinking water system while also enhancing the taste of the water. In a healthcare environment, we recommend a system with a 0.2 micron filter before water is dispensed through the sanitised nozzle area and a 0.5 micron filter for the mains-fed water inlet. This allows little-to-no bacteria to travel either way. Generally, filters require changing every six months in order to continue functioning effectively.
Self-cleaning nozzle Water that accumulates at the tap nozzle collects bacteria. Research has shown that after 120 minutes
22 | TOMORROW’S FM
Removable dispense nozzle In an office setting a removable dispense nozzle enables appropriate sanitisation. It is recommended that sanitisation is carried out once at the beginning of the day and once at the end using sanitising wipes or spray. Moreover, do not forget to clean the drip tray lid and inside the drip tray using either sanitising wipes or hot soapy water and a non-abrasive cloth. Regularly service systems so that nutrients like rust, sludge and slime do not develop.
IoT technology Some systems now come equipped with IOT technology, to provide filter or service change alerts to both the FM of the building and the maintenance team to highlight any requirements of the drinking water equipment, such as filter changes.
Some Control Management Systems (CMS) are designed to monitor the performance of the Master Control Unit (MCU) using Internet of Things technology. The CMS is an essential tool to ensure optimum performance of the system particularly when each MCU controls multiple drinking water dispense points in one building.
Effective specifying of drinking water equipment can ease the pressure on FMs and leave them confident that staff and guests are appropriately protected from germs and can stay well hydrated with safe, high-quality drinking water.
If in doubt, consult the company that installed the equipment – if they offer this service – or read the wide range of information and advice provided by the Health and Safety Executive and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).
www.vivreau.co.uk twitter.com/TomorrowsFM
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