The NSW government have recently announced new regulations around cooling tower testing.
Formerly, cooling tower owners in NSW did some testing of HCC and Legionella, however unlike other jurisdictions this may not have been on monthly basis.
The new regulations require:
Monthly testing for Legionella and Heterotrophic Colony Count (HCC) of all cooling tower systems in NSW from 1 January 2018
Reporting of any test results that exceeds 1,000 CFU/mL Legionella or 5,000,000 CFU/mL HCC to the Local Government by the occupier of premises on which the cooling tower is installed
These changes have been introduced to improve on the existing regulations made by the Expert Panel and Legionella Steering Committee established by NSW Health in July 2016.
Further changes are expected to be announced later in 2018, which are likely to include:
Mandatory risk management plan (RMP) for each cooling tower system
Annual independent audit of the RMP;
Reporting of RMP and audit outcomes to local government; and
Unique cooling tower identification number to be displayed.
Learn more about at the regulations here.
The Airmaster Approach
The short timeframe will not necessarily mean a change in the existing operational program for many, but for some it will mean rapid change to comply.
At Airmaster our specialist water treatment team has the skills and capabilities to ensure testing of your cooling towers adheres to regulation standard.
In addition, we believe a Risk Management Plan (RMP) is the first step in ensuring the risks of legionella are reduced. An RMP sets outs all potential risks, with the aim to provide recommendations regarding removing or managing risk identified.
We take the approach of guiding our customers through the regulatory labyrinths at hand, and advising what should be the highest priority for your plant in managing your risks. Also, what possible capital expenditure may be associated with installed systems.
To learn more on how we can assist you and the importance behind Risk Management Plans, download our flyer.
For more information, contact your Account Manager or email watertreatment@airmaster.com.au.