The church is not only a lively centre of Sunday worship in the town, but also provides a warm welcome several times a week for a wide range of community groups, including the homeless, and those with great needs. Over several events across each week, the church building is host to some 200 – 300 people, from babies to the elderly. With this in mind, Pastor Andy was keen that the building was assessed and compliant, in order to ensure its users’ safety.
Swiftclean sent along James, one of its Legionella technicians, to examine the church’s water system. He checked the water system thoroughly, assessing the pipework, and measuring the water temperature at all of the church’s outlets. The church has two sinks in the kitchen, as well as four toilets. The water at all locations was well within the ideal temperature range.
James was able to explain that, with the church premises regularly used by over 200 people in the course of each week, the water system regularly has a health turnover of water through all its outlets, keeping water moving and minimising the risk of Legionella bacteria proliferation. He also gave sound advice about regular flushing of any less well used outlets during less busy seasons; and explained the importance both of having a Legionella policy, and of renewing the risk assessment every few years to ensure that it was still current.
Pastor Andy Knight said, “The survey turned out to be a simple process on the day, and it was very good to know that there were no serious problems, and everything was in order. With a church community comprising all ages, from newborns to those in their eighties, we want everyone to be safe. Just the knowledge that we needed a Legionella risk assessment was quite concerning, so to have Swiftclean put our minds at rest has been invaluable.
“We now understand the simple precautions we need to take, such as measuring the water temperature in the hot taps nearest to and furthest from the boiler once a month, and it doesn’t seem daunting. James was reassuring and friendly from the moment he arrived until he gave us his verdict. Next time we need to update our risk assessment, it will definitely be Swiftclean that we call.”
David Randlesome, National Sales Manager – Legionella Services for Swiftclean, commented, “It’s quite common for organisations such as churches, Scout and Guide groups, or sports or social clubs, not to realise that they may need a Legionella risk assessment. If your building is open to the public on a regular basis, you probably do need a risk assessment, and to be aware of your responsibilities in keeping your water system Legionella free.
“Fortunately, in many cases, as with ECB, a survey is fairly straightforward, and can put your mind at peace as soon as it has been completed. If in doubt as to whether you need a risk assessment, you should always ask an expert who is a member of the Legionella Control Association. Our team are always very happy to provide advice as to whether you need a risk assessment, as well as delivering an expert service.”