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 insights for implementation. Challenges facing building plumbing systems Source water quality often declines as it travels through a building’s plumbing system, impacted by factors like sediment, biofilm, temperature fluctuations, and disinfectant loss. Disruptive events—such as water main breaks, construction, or hydrant flushing—can stir up sediment and biofilm, introducing these contaminants into the building. Once inside, the situation can worsen due to aging infrastructure, inconsistent temperatures, and water stagnation. Pressure put on building water systems: Addressing these challenges requires proactive solutions grounded in strong water management principles. Key principles of effective water management A comprehensive water management strategy builds resilience, reduces risks, and ensures regulatory compliance. The core principles include: Risk assessment Control measures Monitoring and documentation Interventions and corrective actions These principles create a foundation for incorporating advanced smart technologies into plumbing systems. The role of smart technologies in building water management Smart technologies bring automation, real-time data, and predictive analytics to water management, making systems safer, more efficient, and easier to manage. Key innovations include: Smart sensors Programmable flushing devices Advanced water treatment technologies The following technologies offer real-time water management, adjusting automatically based on water conditions and ensuring optimal system performance. Benefits of smart plumbing systems The advantages of implementing smart plumbing technologies go beyond regulatory compliance: Get started with smart plumbing technologies Adopting smart technologies requires strategic planning. Here’s how to begin: Embracing the future of plumbing The plumbing industry is evolving, and smart technologies are leading the way. These tools empower facility managers and engineers to proactively address water system challenges, ensuring safer, more efficient, and compliant operations. Now is the time to invest in the future of water management. By adopting smart technologies, you can enhance occupant safety, optimize operations, and create resilient systems. Ready to step into the future? Contact LiquiTech today to explore how our smart technologies can transform your building’s water management.
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. Key findings from recent research A comprehensive study published in Microorganisms analyzed over 220 Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks and found that nearly 90% of cases were linked to preventable issues within building water systems (Dooling et al., 2021). This study, along with a recent CDC report, highlights areas where water management programs can be improved to better control Legionella growth (CDC, 2024). The research found that many outbreaks stemmed from a combination of system design flaws, operational lapses, lack of systemic documentation, and insufficient oversight. Specifically, the following challenges were identified: Facilities like healthcare institutions, hotels, senior living communities, and large commercial buildings are particularly at risk due to the complexity of their water systems and the presence of vulnerable populations. By recognizing these common challenges, organizations can take meaningful steps to enhance their water safety efforts. Strengthening water management programs Effective water management programs require consistent oversight to ensure that all activities are carried out as defined in the plan. When any part of a water management plan is not fully implemented, it may leave building occupants vulnerable to potential health risks and expose building owners to legal and reputational consequences in the event of a disease case or outbreak. The CDC and ASHRAE Standard 188 provide guidance on best practices, and applying these recommendations consistently can help mitigate risks. Key strategies for strengthening WMPs include: Strengthen your water management program A well-maintained and properly executed water management program is one of the most effective ways to prevent Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks. By proactively addressing gaps in water safety protocols, facilities can better protect their occupants and maintain compliance with public health standards. Ensuring the safety of building water systems requires ongoing effort and expertise. Schedule a consultation with LiquiTech today to learn how our proven solutions can help your facility strengthen its water management program and reduce Legionella risk. Sources
“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 Legionella risk,” says Dave Pierre, building water safety expert at LiquiTech. “Warmer temperatures, shifting water demand, and municipal activity like hydrant flushing create ideal conditions for both bacterial growth and sediment intrusion in building water systems.” Five spring risk factors impacting water safety Here are five reasons why spring poses increased water safety risks: Warmer weather raises cold water temps With rising outdoor temperatures, cold water lines—especially those in sun-exposed or poorly insulated areas—can warm into the ideal Legionella growth range (77–113°F). Even in well-designed systems, this shift can allow bacteria to multiply in areas not typically considered high-risk. UV disinfection on the incoming water supply can help kill bacteria before it enters your building, while systemic disinfection methods such as copper-silver ionization can prevent bacteria from growing and spreading in warm, low-flow areas within your plumbing. Together, these technologies offer a multi-barrier solution to address both external and internal risks. Seasonal water quality changes increase microbial activity Spring runoff and heavy rains can significantly impact source water quality by increasing turbidity, organic matter, and nutrient load in the municipal supply. These changes can strain municipal treatment processes and often result in lower chlorine residuals and increased microbiological activity in the water entering your facility. This weakens your first line of defense against waterborne pathogens like Legionella. UV disinfection helps reduce microbial load before it enters the building, while systemic disinfection technologies provide ongoing protection throughout your plumbing system. Municipal disruptions introduce sediment Spring is prime time for municipal hydrant flushing and water main repairs. These activities can stir up sediment and contaminants in the public water supply, which then make their way into your building. Sediment doesn’t just reduce disinfectant effectiveness—it can also feed bacterial growth, damage water-bearing equipment, and even lead to pipe leaks or system failures. Sediment filtration on the incoming water supply helps prevent sediment from entering the building, protecting plumbing infrastructure and supporting overall water quality. Changing demand patterns stress plumbing Spring often brings changes in how different parts of a facility use water. Higher demand from increased patient volumes, reopened services, or seasonal water systems (e.g., cooling towers, irrigation systems, and outdoor water features) can cause pressure fluctuations and temperature shifts that disturb biofilm and mobilize bacteria. On the flip side, lower or inconsistent usage in certain areas can lead to stagnation, loss of disinfectant residuals, and unchecked Legionella growth—especially in places like handwashing sinks or infrequently used showers. Smart sensors throughout the plumbing system can help monitor these changes in real time, identifying abnormal flow patterns, temperature inconsistencies, and other early warning signs of system imbalance—so you can take corrective action before issues escalate. Stagnant water in underused areas Units that saw minimal use during the winter—like seasonal wings, outpatient areas, or overflow rooms—may still have stagnant water sitting in the plumbing. Without proper flushing and maintenance, that water can harbor biofilm and Legionella, and turning those outlets back on can send contaminated water into patient areas. Point-of-use filters offer immediate protection at faucets and showers, while flushing protocols guided by your water management program can help clear stagnant water safely. What to do next Spring is the ideal time to review your water management plan and ensure it addresses seasonal risk factors like temperature fluctuations, sediment intrusion, and changing water use patterns. A targeted water system risk assessment can help identify vulnerabilities and confirm that your plan includes the right preventive measures—such as flushing procedures, filtration strategies, monitoring points, and disinfection methods—for this time of year. Making these updates now can help reduce the risk of Legionella growth, protect your patients, and prevent costly equipment damage tied to sediment and system imbalances. Need support evaluating your water management plan this spring? Our team of water safety experts is here to help, contact LiquiTech today.
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. Understanding these factors—and taking proactive steps to address them—is essential for ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable water. Understanding source water quality The foundation of safe drinking water in the U.S. is the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), which mandates the EPA to set health-based standards for public water supplies. While compliance with SDWA ensures water is safe to consume, it doesn’t guarantee that water entering a building’s plumbing system is free of all contaminants or pathogens. Once water leaves the municipal water treatment plant and enters the distribution system, the quality of the water can change drastically before it reaches a building, leaving building water systems susceptible to issues like scale, corrosion, and even microbial growth. Growing challenges influencing source water quality Leveraging water quality reports Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) are annual water quality reports issued by municipalities to inform consumers about the safety and quality of their drinking water. By reviewing these reports, engineers and facility managers can anticipate challenges such as scaling, corrosion, or bacterial growth and adjust water treatment protocols accordingly. How source water quality impacts buildings Solutions for optimal water quality To mitigate risks and ensure high-quality water throughout building systems, you must adopt proactive and multi-faceted strategies. Here are some proven solutions: 1. Supplemental disinfection systems: Installing secondary disinfection systems can help control microbial growth beyond the municipal supply. Options like UV disinfection can target pathogens like Legionella without contributing to harmful DBPs or accelerating corrosion. 2. Flushing programs: Regular flushing of plumbing systems removes stagnant water, sediment, and biofilm. A well-designed flushing program includes low-use fixtures, distal outlets, and hot water recirculation loops to prevent microbial growth and ensure disinfectant efficacy. 3. Sediment filtration: Point-of-entry sediment filtration systems capture particulates and sediment before they enter the building’s plumbing, reducing strain on equipment, minimizing scale formation, and improving water clarity. 4. Water softeners: By reducing hardness, softeners prevent scaling and improve the efficiency of water-dependent systems. This is particularly critical in areas with high sediment or hard water. 5. Smart monitoring: Modern IoT-enabled sensors can provide real-time insights into water quality metrics such as temperature, pH, chlorine residuals, and microbial activity. Automated alerts enable facility teams to respond quickly to emerging issues. Standards, best practices, and emerging trends Standards and best practices Several modern guidelines provide a framework for water quality management: Emerging trends Making water quality a strategic priority Water quality is not just a technical challenge—it’s a strategic priority. Poor water quality can compromise building performance, increase operational costs, and endanger occupant health. By leveraging tools like CCRs, adhering to best practices, and investing in advanced water management solutions, you can ensure that your water systems deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable water. Partner with LiquiTech to lead the way in advanced water intelligence. Together, we can transform your building’s water systems. Contact us today to get started.
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 other factors. Water treatment: Establishes protocols for maintenance, monitoring, and quality improvement in water treatment systems. AAMI ST108 is considered a best practice for patient safety and is likely to become a requirement of other standards, like The Joint Commission Water Management Standard EC.02.05.02. Categories of water quality AAMI ST108 standardizes water quality for medical device processing to prevent adverse outcomes associated with substandard water. It defines three primary water quality levels—utility, critical, and steam—each tailored to different stages of device sterilization and disinfection. Utility water or tap water is generally minimally processed and used for tasks like flushing and washing. Critical water requires higher purity levels for tasks like high-level disinfection and final rinsing. Steam is used in sterilization and must meet specific standards to ensure safety and efficacy. The standard includes extensive testing protocols to ensure water quality across these categories. Key testing criteria include turbidity, pH, microbial levels, conductivity, and various chemical parameters. Water quality monitoring To comply with ST108, facilities must routinely test utility, steam, and critical water to ensure consistent quality. Water testing should cover microbial and chemical parameters as well as general water quality metrics like turbidity, pH, and total organic carbon. Routine testing frequency is determined based on initial validations and risk assessments, with periodic testing following interruptions, repairs, water advisories, or in response to adverse outcomes (e.g., staining, discoloration, or deposits on medical equipment). Facilities should create sample locations representative of water contact points and monitor this over time to ensure ongoing compliance with ST108 standards. All water quality parameters, monitoring and verification protocols, and control measures should be incorporated into the facility’s existing water management plan. Water treatment In the ST108 sterilization process, water treatment is divided into three main stages: pretreatment, primary treatment, and storage/distribution/final treatment. Each stage is essential in preparing high-purity, sterile water for medical and sterilization equipment. Here’s a breakdown of how these stages are structured. Stage 1: Pretreatment The pretreatment stage prepares water for further purification. This step ensures that downstream equipment operates efficiently by removing larger particles, sediments, chlorine, and hardness, which could cause damage or interfere with subsequent treatments. Sediment filtration: Filters particles and sediment from the utility water that could harbor bacteria or clog and damage equipment. Carbon filtration: Dechlorinates water by removing chlorine and organic compounds. Water softening: Reduces hardness (calcium and magnesium) to prevent scaling and extend equipment life. Stage 2: Primary treatment The primary treatment stage refines water quality to meet strict purity and safety standards, making it suitable for medical sterilization applications. The goal of this stage is to achieve high levels of purity by removing dissolved ions, organic contaminants, and microorganisms. Reverse osmosis (RO): Uses a semipermeable membrane to filter out ions, organic matter, and some microorganisms, creating purified water. Deionization (DI): Uses ion-exchange resins to further purify the water by removing any remaining dissolved salts and ions. Stage 3: Storage, distribution, and final treatment This stage maintains water quality during storage and distribution and ensures the highest purity right before use. The purpose of this stage is to prevent microbial contamination and ensure that water remains sterile at the point of use. UV disinfection: Provides final microbial inactivation by using UV light to disrupt bacterial DNA. Point-of-use filtration: Use of micropore or ultrafine filters at the final outlet to prevent contaminants from entering the sterilization cycle. Incorporating ST108 into your water management program To incorporate ST108 into your water management plan, start by reviewing your current water treatment processes and identifying areas that need alignment with ST108’s requirements. Involve key personnel such as facility managers, infection preventionists, clinical engineering staff, medical device processing personnel, and water safety specialists who understand both operational needs and regulatory standards. These specialists will assess your existing setup, identify gaps, and update treatment protocols to ensure compliance. Collaborate with water treatment experts to implement technologies that meet ST108 criteria at each stage of water handling, from pretreatment to storage and distribution. For example, they may recommend sediment filtration, softening, or UV disinfection systems tailored to your facility’s usage patterns and contaminant profile. Additionally, integrate regular testing and monitoring into your water management plan to ensure ongoing compliance and make adjustments to processes as needed. Partnering with LiquiTech to comply with ST108 LiquiTech simplifies ST108 compliance with targeted solutions that streamline water quality monitoring and control. Water quality testing facilitation Coordination services to streamline ST108 testing compliance. Automatic shipment of sampling bottles and coordination with third-party labs. Water management program integration Support in incorporating ST108 guidelines into your water management plan. LiquiTech™ Sediment Filtration (pretreatment) Removes particulates from utility water to meet ST108 standards, making it suitable for critical applications. Protects reverse osmosis (RO) and deionization (DI) systems by reducing fouling and scaling, which extends equipment lifespan and lowers maintenance costs. Minimizes biofilm formation to reduce microbial risks. Ready to get started? Contact LiquiTech today to see how we can help your facility comply with AAMI ST108.
How Weather, Climate, and Water Sources Impact Waterborne Disease Hospitalizations
A recent study from Columbia University, published in the open-access journal PLOS Water, investigates how weather conditions, climate, and water sources affect hospital admissions for waterborne infectious diseases in the United States. The study examined 12 years of data from 516 hospitals in 25 states. Key findings on biofilm-forming bacteria Biofilm-forming pathogens, such as Legionella, Pseudomonas, and Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), thrive in biofilms within water distribution systems and are responsible for respiratory infections, especially among vulnerable populations like individuals over 55 or those who are immunocompromised. During the study period, biofilm-forming bacteria were responsible for 81% of all waterborne disease hospitalizations. Geographical and environmental influences Conclusion The study identifies a clear link between meteorological conditions, drinking water sources, and hospitalization rates for waterborne diseases. With climate change potentially leading to more extreme weather events, the study highlights the need for improved water infrastructure and water management practices to mitigate the risk of these waterborne infections, particularly in urban areas and regions dependent on groundwater sources.
Plumbing 201 for Infection Preventionists: The Impact of Plumbing on Healthcare
Healthcare facilities are tasked with preventing the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), and the intricacies of plumbing design and material selection play a significant role in this effort. The role of biofilm in promoting bacteria and pathogens in healthcare water systems including drains and the link between drinking water outbreaks like Legionella to biofilm in plumbing systems, and the importance of selecting the right materials for supply lines are all pivotal in curbing the risk of HAIs. The role of plumbing in infection control Understanding the interaction between plumbing materials and microbial growth is imperative for Infection Preventionists (IPs). Making informed choices during construction and renovation allows for the selection of materials that not only minimize infection risks but also ensure compliance with health and safety standards. By collaborating effectively with facility management, IPs can significantly contribute to joint infection control initiatives, ensuring that plumbing systems do not become a source of infection. Key plumbing terms to understand Infection prevention requires a firm grasp of key plumbing concepts that impact patient safety. Understanding terms such as leaching, corrosion, and biofilms enriches an IP’s toolkit, allowing for better mitigation of risks associated with waterborne infections. Leaching The process by which materials, such as metals or chemicals, dissolve or are washed out from the pipe material into the water due to contact with the water over time. In healthcare settings, leaching can introduce potentially harmful substances into the water supply, affecting water quality and patient safety. Corrosion The gradual destruction or deterioration of materials (metals, alloys, plastics, etc.) caused by chemical reactions with their environment. In pipes, corrosion can lead to reduced water flow, leaks, and the release of metals into the water, which can serve as nutrients for microbial growth, including biofilms. Biofilm A complex aggregation of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, that adhere to each other and surfaces, encased in a protective and adhesive matrix. Biofilms in plumbing systems can harbor pathogens, making them resistant to disinfection and posing a significant risk for HAIs. Types of lines: Supply, return, drain, waste Plumbing systems consist of multiple types of lines, each with a distinct function. Here, we explore supply lines, return lines, drain lines, and waste lines. Grasping the role of each type is vital for maintaining an efficient, safe, and reliable plumbing system. Supply lines The integrity of plumbing supply lines is critical in delivering safe, potable water for drinking, handwashing, and patient care activities. Materials like copper, PEX, and CPVC are chosen for their durability and reliability. Flexible water supply pipes offer installation ease and adaptability, making them an excellent choice for connecting water supplies to fixtures in constrained spaces. Their construction from materials like stainless steel, PVC, or braided nylon offers durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring reliable performance over time. Return lines Equally important are the plumbing return lines, which ensure the efficient operation and delivery of potable water systems. They contribute to patient comfort and infection control by reducing water age and stagnant conditions, preventing sediment accumulation, and ensuring temperature and disinfectant residuals. Drain and waste lines Proper sanitation in healthcare facilities hinges on effectively removing wastewater and materials through well-designed drain and waste lines. Choosing the right materials, such as PVC or cast iron, and ensuring their correct installation and maintenance are key factors in preventing backflows and the spread of pathogens. Types of plumbing material and their impact on patient safety Exploring the benefits and potential risks associated with commonly used plumbing materials—including copper, stainless steel, cast iron, galvanized steel, and various plastics such as PVC, CPVC, and PEX—helps IPs make informed decisions. PVC, CPVC, and PEX are generally not used in healthcare plumbing due to their susceptibility to biofilm formation and potential chemical leaching. These materials can create environments conducive to microbial growth, posing significant infection risks in healthcare settings. Additionally, their lower thermal tolerance and potential for chemical degradation under high-temperature water systems make them less suitable for the stringent plumbing requirements in healthcare facilities. Each material has its advantages, such as antimicrobial properties or corrosion resistance, but also considerations like the need for regular maintenance to prevent contamination. Copper Copper is favored for healthcare plumbing because of its antimicrobial qualities and durability. It lowers microbial levels in water systems and keeps water quality high with a lower risk of contamination, however over time, it can lose these properties due to scale and sediment accumulation. Used in drinkable water lines, both hot and cold, copper helps reduce infections associated with healthcare. Regular checks and maintenance are needed to avoid bacterial contamination from damaged pipes. Despite its initial cost, copper’s health advantages and long-term use can make it a cost-effective choice. Stainless steel Stainless steel is favored in healthcare for its corrosion resistance, hygiene, and durability. Its non-porous surface helps reduce bacterial growth and biofilm, promoting a cleaner water supply and helping prevent HAIs. Despite higher initial costs, its longevity and minimal replacement needs make it a cost-effective choice. Regular maintenance, including inspections and proper cleaning, is crucial for its long-term use. Stainless steel plays a vital role in maintaining patient safety in healthcare settings. Cast iron Cast iron pipes, commonly used for underground plumbing due to their durability and sound-dampening qualities, are mainly used in drainage and vent systems. Over time, these pipes may corrode, risking water contamination and health hazards. Therefore, regular checks and upkeep are crucial. Despite potential risks, when well-maintained, cast iron pipes remain a good choice for healthcare facilities, offering high crush strength and noise reduction, which is important for patient comfort. Prioritizing patient safety in healthcare plumbing material selection is key. Galvanized steel Once popular for their corrosion resistance, galvanized steel pipes can degrade over time. The zinc coating may wear off, leading to rust and bacterial growth. In healthcare settings, these pipes are unsuitable for drinking water systems due to potential water quality issues and health risks. Modern facilities prefer safer materials to reduce risks. Regular maintenance, including corrosion checks, water tests for
Biofilm: What Is It and How to Control It
Biofilms, intricate communities of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and other microscopic entities, thrive on surfaces through a remarkable process of collaboration and self-protection. Encased within a self-produced, slime-like matrix, these microorganisms firmly anchor themselves to a variety of surfaces, from the moist lining of a water pipe to the hard enamel of our teeth. While often associated with wet environments, biofilms can also adapt to less moist conditions, revealing their resilience and versatility. In this article, we’ll explore what biofilms are, where they’re found, the health concerns associated with them, and how to control them in building water systems. Definition of biofilm Biofilms are composed of different types of microorganisms, including bacterial and fungal species, that grow on and stick to the surface of a structure. A biofilm may cover natural surfaces, like teeth, or manufactured surfaces, like water pipes or water storage systems. The microorganisms that make up biofilm can be in different states, including actively multiplying, dormant, or simply associated with the biofilm structure. They can also exhibit varied phenotypes, including differences in growth rate, gene expression, and resistance mechanisms. Formation of biofilms The microorganisms in biofilms are often embedded in a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances, which provides structural support and protection. This matrix contains living and dead cells and resists antimicrobial agents like sterilants, disinfectants, and antibiotics, shielding the microbial cells within. Where biofilms are found “Wet” biofilms typically develop in aqueous environments, including natural bodies of water like rivers and oceans, as well as manufactured surfaces like water pipes, storage tanks, and wastewater treatment facilities. “Dry” biofilms are found in less moist environments. They can develop on surfaces in healthcare settings (e.g., operating rooms), on skin or food surfaces, and in indoor environments (e.g., HVAC systems). Health concerns associated with biofilms Biofilms can harbor and protect waterborne pathogens, making them more disinfectant-resistant. They are implicated in a wide range of infections, such as urinary tract infections, middle-ear infections, and implant-associated infections. Biofilms can also exacerbate chronic wounds and lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Bacteria in biofilms are often more resistant to antibiotics, complicating the treatment of infections. How biofilms affect plumbing systems In plumbing systems, biofilms can reduce water flow, clog pipes, and corrode plumbing materials. They can also degrade water quality by harboring waterborne pathogens and releasing them into the water supply during events that alter water pressure and flow, like nearby construction or water main breaks. Controlling biofilms in building water systems Regular maintenance, routine flushing, and cleaning of pipes can help control biofilms. Some continuous supplemental disinfectants like copper-silver ionization can penetrate biofilms, killing the microbes contained inside. Physical treatments on the incoming water supply, like UV disinfection and sediment filtration, can help prevent microbes and nutrient-containing sediment from entering the building water system and contributing to new biofilm growth. When designing new building water systems, plumbing engineers should implement designs that reduce stagnation and ensure consistent water flow to help prevent biofilms from forming. Biofilms are a common and potentially harmful occurrence in building water systems. Proper maintenance and control can help prevent health concerns associated with biofilms and keep plumbing systems functioning properly. By understanding what biofilms are, where they’re found, and how to control them, organizations can ensure the safety and quality of their building’s drinking water.
The Biocide Chlorine Dioxide Stimulates Biofilm Formation in Bacillus subtilis by Activation of the Histidine Kinase KinC
MOSHE SHEMESH, ROBERTO KOLTER, RICHARD LOSICKAMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MICROBIOLOGY, JOURNAL OF BACTERIOLOGY, DECEMBER 2010 IntroductionThe goal of this study was to examine how biofilm formation is stimulated by chlorine dioxide, a chemical that is typically very effective and fast-acting against bacteria. The study examined how chlorine dioxide works and how the biofilm acts as a protector of cells. ResultsThe findings showed that chlorine dioxide accelerated biofilm formation and stimulated matrix gene transcription. The more matrix genes that are transcribed, the easier it is for the biofilm to grow and spread. The study suggested that disruptions in the membrane caused by chlorine dioxide are recognized as a stress signal by KinC, an essential membrane-bound enzyme, prompting biofilm formation. ConclusionSublethal doses of chlorine dioxide can increase the rate of biofilm formation for Bacillus subtilis and other bacteria. Chlorine dioxide acted with KinC, an essential membrane-bound enzyme, and activated the expression of the genes needed for matrix production. The study concluded that biofilm formation is a response to the stress invoked by chlorine dioxide. Full study
Cluster of Carbapenemase-Producing Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Among Patients in an Adult Intensive Care Unit
MEGAN E. CAHILL, MARTHA JAWORSKI, VICTORIA HARCY, ERIN YOUNG, D. CAL HAM, PAIGE GABLE, KRIS K. CARTERCDC, MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT, AUGUST 2023 IntroductionThe report discusses an examination into the infections of carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CP-CRPA) in an Idaho hospital (Hospital A) between September 2021 and January 2022. The infections present a significant challenge due to the high antibiotic resistance and their ability to spread from person-to-person and via environmental sources. The study focuses on two patients from the same intensive care unit room, with both isolates characterized by specific carbapenemase gene type and multilocus sequence type. ResultsThe investigative team focused on the plumbing in the ICU room because Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known to persist in biofilm, a collection of microorganisms that adhere to one another and to a surface, such as a pipe. Water samples and swabs from two sinks and one toilet were collected. CP-CRPA with the same gene type isolated in the patients was found in one of the sinks, including swab samples from the drain, p-trap (a bend in a sink drain that holds water to block sewer gases), and sink counter. Water samples from the same sink’s p-trap and a toilet also tested positive for a different strain of CP-CRPA. Due to the genetic link between the patient isolate and sink isolate, the investigative team concluded that the most likely source of the outbreak was the ICU room sink. ConclusionThe report concludes that as of December 2022, no further CP-CRPA had been reported by Hospital A, suggesting the preventative measures implemented were successful. The work highlights the importance of collaboration between healthcare facilities and public health agencies, especially in identification and response to CP-CRPA clusters in a healthcare setting. Such cooperation, alongside the implementation of robust sink hygiene interventions, is critical in controlling the spread of such resistant infections. Full report
