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SA Health has released
the
Public and Environmental Health (Legionella)
Regulations 2008 and Guidelines for the Control of Legionella in
Manufactured Water Systems in South Australia. Commencing on 1 October
2008, the new regulations and guidelines are an important step in
reducing the incidence of community acquired legionellosis
(Legionnaires’ Disease).
The regulations and guidelines formalise the management of high risk
manufactured water systems, namely, warm water systems and cooling water
systems (such as cooling towers and evaporative condensers), in certain
buildings throughout South Australia.
The regulations and guidelines have a number of specific requirements
for cooling water systems and warm water systems. Whilst the general
provisions of the regulations commence from 1 October 2008,
certain requirements will
be phased in over a 12 month period.
The SA Health site will be updated with further information on the
regulations and guidelines prior to and after 1 October 2008 – watch
this space!
What is a cooling water system?
Under the regulations, a cooling water system is defined as a heat
exchange system that consists of a heat generating plant, a heat
rejection plant, interconnecting water recirculating pipework and
associated pumps, valves and controls, and includes a cooling tower or
evaporative condenser.
What is a warm water system?
Under the regulations, a warm water system is defined as a reticulated
water system that distributes or recirculates warm water through the
majority of its branches at a nominal temperature of 45°C by means of a
temperature controlling device.
Do these regulations apply to me?
The new regulations apply to the owner(s) of premises which have warm
water system(s) and/or cooling water system(s) installed except in:
(a) a Class 1A, 4 or 10 building under the Building Code; or
(b) a sole occupancy unit in a Class 2 building under the Building Code,
provided that it is not a warm water system that serves more than
1 dwelling.
Where can I get a copy of the regulations and guidelines?
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