Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems Infographic

1. Legionella Bacteria
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella
bacteria, most commonly found in man made water
environments.
Legionella infection is contracted when
a person inhales water droplets or mist
containing the bacteria. Symptoms are
similar to pneumonia, which include fever,
chills and cough.
8,000 - 18,000
Cases of Legionnaires’ disease
in the United States per year.
SOME COMMON SOURCES OF
LEGIONELLA
Decorative FountainsBuilding Water
Systems
Cooling Towers Hot Tubs/Spa
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122°F
68°F
105°F
90°F
At temperatures
between 68° - 122°F the
organisms can multiply
Temperature range from
90° - 105°F is ideal for
bacterial growth.
-Individuals who are 50 years of age or older
-Smokers
-Individuals with chronic lung disease
-Individuals with weakened immune systems
Temperatures at which
Legionella thrive and multiply
People who are most susceptible
to Legionnaires’ disease
PREVENTION
Eliminate dead legs in piping
Keep hot water storage tanks >140°F
Keep cold water storage tanks <68°F
Maintain good insulation on domestic water piping
>140°F
< 68°F
2nd
Clean storage tanks and ice machines routinely
Use secondary disinfectant if needed
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Site towers away from building air intakes
Minimize Drift
Add chemicals for bacteria,
scale, and corrosion
Clean twice a year
Monitor for bacteria
Do not locate near susceptible people
Clean routinely
Use biocide
Monitor for bacteria
pH
Cl
Test twice a day for chlorine and pH levels
Replace water as needed
Clean regularly
Monitor for bacteria
Enforce bather load requirements
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Sources:
http://www.cdc.gov/legionella/about/
https://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/legionnaires/cool_evap.html
http://www.barclaywater.com/products-services/water-hygiene/
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