Legionella Evaluations

Case Name: Legionella Pneumophila — Risk Assessment, Building Surveys, and Engineering Recommendations

Problem Description: Colonies of legionella pneumophila were found growing in the potable water distribution system at a government research facility, and were present in concentrations that could significantly impact human health. legionella colonies were found present in greater than 50% of the buildings.

Our Involvement: We provided recommendations on water sampling methods and analytical laboratories, and subsequent test results confirmed the presence of legionella. We were contracted to survey the building water system.  We reviewed the plumbing system and identified the probable root cause for the presence of legionella. Within one week, we delivered a series of recommendations to reduce bacterial counts and to improve the water distribution system.

After completing the initial building survey, the Client expanded the project and BenTyler was chosen to survey the remaining buildings. These surveys were directed at modifying the piping systems to improve water flows and reduce "growth zones" for the bacteria. We surveyed 17 of the approximately 40 buildings identified as critical.