The Future of Plumbing: Smart Technologies for Better Water Management
The plumbing industry is undergoing a technological transformation. Aging infrastructure, evolving regulations, and increasing health risks necessitate a shift toward smarter, data-driven water management solutions. These innovations can improve water quality, optimize system performance, and enhance occupant safety. This blog explores how smart plumbing technologies are shaping the future of building water systems, offering practical […]
Report: Gaps in Water Management Programs and Increased Risks
A well-structured and implemented water management program (WMP) is crucial in controlling Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. Recent research has identified common gaps in water system management that may increase the risk of Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks. By understanding these areas and applying proactive solutions, facility teams can strengthen their WMPs and better protect building occupants. […]
“Spring is here—and so is Legionella risk,” warns expert
As the weather warms up, many healthcare facilities prepare for seasonal changes in staffing, patient volumes, and operations. But one area that often gets overlooked during this transition is your building water system—and spring can bring a perfect storm of conditions that elevate the risk of Legionella and sediment-related issues. “Spring is here—and so is […]
Update to Ohio Rule 3701-16-12: Water Management Programs and Case Investigations Now Required for Residential Care Facilities
Effective July 12, 2024, Ohio introduced updates to Rule 3701-16-12 of the Ohio Administrative Code, which requires residential care facilities to have protocols for investigating cases of Legionnaires’ disease and implementing a water management program to control Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. Water management program implementation Every residential care facility in Ohio must establish and […]
From Source to Tap: Navigating Building Water Quality
Water traveling from municipal sources to a building’s taps undergoes a complex journey influenced by everything from the quality of the source water to the building’s internal distribution network. Even water that meets national safety standards can encounter challenges as it passes through aging pipes, is affected by shifting climates, and interacts with building infrastructure. […]
Advancing Sustainability and Operational Efficiency in Healthcare
Water systems are critical to healthcare operations, but they also present significant challenges that affect energy use, infrastructure, and equipment performance. Issues like sediment buildup, biofilm formation, and poor system balance can drive up costs, waste energy, and compromise long-term sustainability. By addressing these challenges proactively, hospitals can improve efficiency, reduce expenses, and extend the […]
Smarter Water Management with LiquiTech™ Smart Sensors
Building water systems are complex, comprising networks of pipes, valves, and equipment that must function seamlessly to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance. This complexity often hides critical issues—from unbalanced systems and equipment inefficiencies to risks of bacterial growth and scald risks. With LiquiTech™ Smart Sensors, you can uncover these hidden issues and take control of […]
AAMI ST108: Ensuring Water Quality in Medical Device Processing
The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) introduced Standard ST108 in 2023 to replace the previous AAMI TIR34:2014/(R)2021 standard. AAMI ST108 includes guidelines on: Categories of water quality: Defines water quality requirements for each stage of sterile processing. Water quality monitoring: Sets criteria for assessing water quality, including turbidity, pH, microbial levels, conductivity, and […]
Why Legionella Isn’t Just a Hot Water Problem: Risks in Cold Water
Legionella is a waterborne pathogen that contaminates nearly half of all building water systems. It typically enters through the municipal cold water supply and thrives in areas of the water system with sediment accumulation, stagnant water, warm temperatures, or where other microbes are present. While hot water is often seen as the biggest risk for […]
CDC Report: Burkholderia multivorans Infections Linked to Hospital Ice Machines
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report published on October 3, 2024, linked Burkholderia multivorans infections to ice machines in multiple healthcare facilities in the western United States. This post summarizes key findings, implications, and recommended practices for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety. Background Burkholderia multivorans, a member of the Burkholderia cepacia […]
