Legionella Testing and Microbiological Water Sampling Services

When is Legionella testing required?

Legionella testing may be required or recommended where there is a need to verify water quality, investigate a potential issue, or confirm that control measures are effective.

Testing may be appropriate where:

• A Legionella risk assessment identifies a need for sampling
• Water temperatures are not being consistently controlled
• There has been a period of low use, stagnation or system disruption
• A building as reopened after refurbishment, closure or reduced occupancy
• Previous samples have returned abnormal or positive results
• The site includes higher-risk users, such as healthcare or care environments
• There are concerns around tanks, showers, calorifiers, TMVs, spa pools or other water systems

Legionella testing should not be viewed as a replacement for a suitable Legionella risk assessment or on-going control scheme. Instead, it is one part of a wider water hygiene management programme.

What can we test for?

BrodexTrident can arrange microbiological water testing for a range of organisms and water quality indicators, including:

• Legionella
• TACC / TVC
• E. coli
• Coliforms
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  
  

How our water sampling process works

1. Sampling plan agreed

We identify suitable sampling locations based on the water system, risk assessment findings, client requirements and any areas of concern.

2. Samples collected by trained engineers

Samples are taken using sterile sample bottles, with care taken to avoid contamination during collection.

3. Samples submitted for laboratory analysis

Samples are sent to an independent UKAS-accredited laboratory for microbiological analysis.

4. Certificates issued

Once results are available, certificated are uploaded to Client Portal.

5. Abnormal  / positive results highlighted

If abnormal readings or positive results are identified, our team can advice on suitable next steps, which may include further investigation, remedial action, clean and disinfection, or review of the control scheme.

Where are water samples taken from?

Sampling locations depend on the design, use and risk profile of the water system. Typical sampling points may include:

• Hot and cold water outlets
• Showers and spray taps
• Cold water storage tanks
• Calorifiers and hot water return systems
• Little used outlets
• Areas with poor temperature control
• Outlets servicing vulnerable users
• Spa pools, ,hot tubs or other higher-risk systems where relevant

The sampling plan should be based on the system risk, not simple taken from random outlets.

Is Legionella testing the same as a Legionella risk assessment?

No. Legionella testing and Legionella risk assessments are different, although they can support each other.

A Legionella risk assessment reviews the water system, management arrangements, potential risks and existing control measures.

Legionella testing involves taking water samples and submitting them for laboratory analysis to check whether Legionella bacteria are present.

Testing can provide useful evidence, but it does not replace the need for a suitable and sufficient Legionella risk assessment or written scheme of control.

Who uses Legionella and microbiological water testing?

Our water testing services are suitable for a wide range of sites, including:

• Care homes and supported living settings
• Schools, colleges and universities
• Hotels and hospitality venues
• Healthcare premises
• Dental practices
• Offices and commercial buildings
• Industrial and manufacturing sites
• Facilities management portfolios
• Landlords and managing agents
• Spa, leisure and wellness facilities