WATER HYGIENE AND SAFETY
In healthcare settings, where an uninterrupted water supply is essential for critical functions such as patient care, sanitation, and medical procedures, the consequences of a water system failure can be catastrophic
Royal United Hospital from exposure to Legionella. A 68-year-old patient died from Legionnaires’ disease. This sombre case serves as a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and stringent safety measures. In the UK, there are strict regulations governing the management of water hygiene in healthcare estates. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 set out guidelines for preventing water contamination, waste, and misuse. Healthcare estates and facilities teams must also follow the guidelines in the HSE’s L8 Approved Code of Practice (AcoP) and guidance, Legionnaires’ disease. The control of legionella bacteria in water systems, which focus on the control of Legionella bacteria in water systems. Regular risk assessments, maintenance, and monitoring of water systems, are critical to reducing the likelihood of contamination. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to prosecution, as well as severe consequences, such as waterborne disease outbreaks.
Keraflo said: “The use of automatic fire sprinklers is strongly recommended by all UK fire and rescue services, especially in hospitals, where fires can put vulnerable individuals at greater risk.”
Water efficiency There are further considerations for those managing healthcare buildings, particularly given the NHS’s current drive towards demanding carbon reduction targets. Water, one of the planet’s most vital resources, is fast becoming a luxury that we can’t afford to waste. As population growth and climate change drive up demand, the UK’s Environment Agency estimates that by 2050, an additional five billion litres of water will be needed each day.1
Historically, water efficiency has not been a top priority for many healthcare estate management teams. However, with increasing awareness of sustainability issues, there is a growing recognition that water conservation is crucial. Reducing unnecessary water usage not only helps alleviate pressure on the environment, but can also lead to
significant cost savings for healthcare facilities. Electronic tank management systems are critical for anyone looking to improve water safety and optimise tank performance. In healthcare settings, where an uninterrupted water supply is essential for critical functions such as patient care, sanitation, and medical procedures, the consequences of a water system failure can be catastrophic. An overflow or water tank failure in a hospital could damage expensive medical equipment, or disrupt activities in sensitive areas such as operating theatres. Electronic tank management systems and delayed action mechanical float valves help prevent such failures by ensuring that water storage tanks are consistently monitored and maintained. These systems can detect potential issues such as leaks or overflows early, allowing for proactive maintenance, and avoiding major disruptions. Tanktronic, Keraflo’s electronic tank management
system, for example, uses sensors to constantly monitor the water levels, temperature, and volume in cold water tanks. Readings on these are displayed on a control panel, providing an accurate insight into the condition of stored water. Tanktronic’s design is built around automation and intelligence, ensuring that the water in both compartments of the tank is regularly cycled and refreshed. One of the key features of Tanktronic is its ability to activate both valves in multi-compartment tanks simultaneously. This simultaneous filling prevents the water in one side of the tank from sitting unused for too long, which eliminates the risk of stagnation and biofilm formation. Additionally, Tanktronic can be integrated into Building Management Systems (BMS), allowing for remote monitoring and control. It offers two-stage alarms for both high and low water levels, as well as temperature monitoring, ensuring that healthcare engineering personnel are alerted to any issues before they become serious. If water levels drop below or exceed acceptable thresholds, or if the water temperature rises into a dangerous range, Tanktronic triggers alarms that can be sent directly to third-party systems or devices. This helps prevent any major disruptions caused by water system malfunctions.
Automated water level adjustments Tanktronic also includes a calendar function, which allows users to automate water level adjustments based on the specific needs of their facility. For example, the system can lower the water level during periods of low occupancy, and raise it again during peak demand times. This capability ensures that water is turned over regularly, both preventing stagnation and optimising water usage. Keraflo’s Servo Ceramic Valves (SCV), which can be
integrated with the Tanktronic system, are particularly effective in this regard. These valves work seamlessly with Tanktronic’s sensors, responding automatically to changes in water demand. They can activate both tank compartments at the same time, ensuring that water is consistently turned over in both sides of the tank, while still allowing independent operation when maintenance is required.
50 Health Estate Journal November 2024
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