While many facilities are focusing on the proper precautions for preventing the spread of COVID-19 and maintaining a healthy and safe work environment, Goodway Technologies is sharing a reminder to be proactive to reducing the risk of a harmful bacteria that continues to impact facilities—Legionella. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, health departments in the United States reported 10,000 cases of Legionnaires’ disease in 2018. In 2021, the U.S. has already seen outbreaks in a hospital, senior living center and an apartment complex.
While there are several potential sources for Legionella, one of the most likely candidates is an infected cooling tower. Poorly maintained cooling towers are an ideal place for Legionella to flourish, due to accumulated algae, mold or bacteria mixing with the tower’s warm water. This creates a perfect environment for a possible outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease.
Goodway Technologies recommends the following preventative maintenance steps to reduce the risk of Legionella developing in a facility:
- Inspect Towers Monthly. Look for sediment, scale and slime, which can lead to buildup and help legionella grow and thrive.
- Clean Tower Basin Surfaces. Clean the basin when sediment is visible. Cooling tower vacuums make it easier to remove contaminants without shutting down or draining your system.
- Clean the Fill. The tower fill is the perfect environment for bacterial growth, especially Legionella. A cooling tower fill cleaner will remove lime scale and debris.
- Treat Circulating Water. Dose biocides at recommended levels and consider monthly testing for legionella bacteria to stay on top of any possible outbreaks.
- Drain, Clean, and Disinfect Annually. At least once a year, take the time to drain your system and perform a thorough cleaning and disinfection before turning it back on. Consider similar maintenance if your system has been offline for a long period of time.
In addition to lowering the risk for Legionnella growth, caring for the cooling tower can also save money in energy and equipment costs. Chillers, heat exchangers, and pumps will remain cleaner and last longer. Putting together a maintenance plan and developing proper procedures is no longer optional. Taking these steps now can minimize the risks of an outbreak in a facility.
Visit Goodway’s website to learn more about its cooling tower systems and accessories or call 1-800-333-7467 for more information.
Goodway Technologies | www.goodway.com
