Plumbing Connection 2-2015

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PLUMBING CONNECTION WINTER 2015 43
“verification person,” must review documentation to
ensure the plan is being implemented.
∫Validation: The effectiveness of the plan in controlling
Legionella must be validated. Testing water systems
for Legionella provides the most direct feedback on
Legionella control. Legionella testing is discussed as a
validation option in 188P but is not required.
For new construction or renovations, designers and
contractors have responsibilities as well. For water systems
deemed to require Legionella control measures, designers
must provide documentation, diagrams, or instructions
as needed for monitoring and control, code compliance,
operation and maintenance, control system operation,
calibration, installation and start-up, commissioning
(including procedures for flushing and disinfection),
filling and draining, equipment sizes, piping layout,
system materials, pipe sizes, design flow rates, design
temperatures, and the impact of heat loss or heat gain.
Designers must also note locations of equipment access
(or note inadequate access), filling and draining, flushing,
sampling, temperature monitoring, treatment, no flow and
low flow areas, possible cross connections between potable
and non-potable systems and outside air intakes.
Plumbing contractors must properly balance the systems.
They may also be responsible for disinfecting the system
which according to ASHRAE 188P must be performed no
more than three weeks before any part of the building is
occupied for its intended purpose.
If 188P becomes a standard, it could be adopted as law by
government agencies in the United States (e.g., state health
departments). It has already been proposed for adoption
into the International Plumbing Code and the International
Mechanical Code. Its ultimate impact in Australia is
uncertain but we should always look to learn from abroad.
Matt Freije has specialised in Legionella prevention since
founding HC Info in 1995. He has written two
books, developed water management plan templates, taught
seminars in five countries, and written and narrated nine
e-learning courses including the new course “How to Survey
a Building for a Legionella Water Management Plan.” His first
book, Legionellae Control in Health Care Facilities: A Guide
for Minimizing Risk, has been distributed in more than 30
countries, including Australia.
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„ Watermark Approved
All backflow devices are Watermark approved for
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„ Easy Maintenance
Self contained check modules for quick
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„ TriforceTM Checks
Centre stem guided checks with replaceable seat
discs provide low head loss and easy servicing.
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Valves are much smaller and lighter compared to
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For more information, please visit our website
or phone 02 8543 9811
Valves
manufactured in theUSA
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AS2845.1WM-022183