Earlier this year, the EU published a report entitled Water Use In Industry. It found that manufacturing and energy production together account for over 70% of total water use, with the majority of water used for cooling purposes, in most EU countries.
As the predominant users of water in the UK, manufacturing and industrial companies are under pressure to be environmentally friendly and sustainable. But, if you are an employer, or someone in control of premises, you must understand the health and safety risks associated with working such large quantities of water.
With substantial experience within manufacturing and industry, ranging from work with large metal and plastics manufacturers to stone masons, we’re ideally placed to offer advice. So we’ve created a checklist for water management professionals working in these industries.
Complete risk assessment for health and safety compliance
Companies in the manufacturing and industry sector must ensure they are compliant with risk assessment and health & safety standards. You must understand how to identify and assess sources of risk, manage any risks, prevent or control any risks, and keep and maintain the correct records.
For manufacturing and industrial companies, common sources of Legionella bacteria will include water tanks and cooling towers and similar systems that tap into a public water supply. Certain conditions increase the risk of Legionella including the water temperature, any stored or re-circulated waters or deposits supporting bacterial growth.
We recommend undertaking a thorough Legionella risk assessment to control and prevent any risk of Legionella disease in your water system. This will include a documented Legionella risk assessment overview including pipework schematics and photographic evidence, a report of any significant finding of the Legionella risk assessment, water tank surveys and testing of hot and cold water throughout the building at key points (e.g. strong tanks)
Regular water testing and sampling
A regular water testing service will determine your water quality throughout the system and demonstrate that it meets legal standards.
The process involves two essential stages; taking an accurate water sample and producing a high quality analysis of this sample. Our professional water testing service is also conducted in compliance with both British Standards and Guidance and European and UK Legislation.
Ensure your water tank is regularly serviced and maintained
Your water storage tank is one of the most valuable assets at your facility, and regular servicing will ensure your tank is kept at its most optimal level of operation.
Tanks should be inspected by industry professionals on a regular basis to ensure structural and sanitary integrity. Maintenance should include an annual full tank clean and chlorination in addition to routine inspections to maintain water hygiene and quality.
Brodex helps businesses to be efficient in their water managment while ensuring that they adhere to legislative regulations and keep their employees safe. Further information about our services to manufacturing and industry can be found at:
http://www.brodexuk.com/sectors/manufacturing-and-industry/
