Legionella Risk Assessment Survey

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Engineered water systems carry a risk of legionella which can be fatal. Here’s how we tested the water at the University of Southampton to ensure it was safe:

 

A Legionella risk assessment survey is an examination of the potential risks presented by engineered water systems, and seeks to identify and prevent the risks of exposure to Legionella bacteria from work activities and water systems.

We visited the university premises before they were open to the students in order to avoid any disruption.

We carried out the legionella risk assessment by taking Legionella and TVC samples, as well as temperature measurements to have a better understanding of the water quality.  TVC analysis is required to simulate the potential threat the water could pose if ingested.

On completion of the analysis, the results were interpreted and the relevant advice was given to the Facilities Manager.

 

 

For more information please fill out the form below;

 

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We are investing in New Technology for Water Contamination Testing

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We currently provide scientific analysis services in our high tech laboratories in Broadcut in Fareham, testing for asbestos, lead in paint, air quality, and water-borne diseases such as legionella. We have now invested in equipment that will be able to detect minute contaminants in water.

 

The Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer from Shimadzu is used for ultra-low level detection of metals and semi-metals in groundwater, rivers, effluent and drinking water. It is capable of detecting less than one particle in one trillion.

 

This is a major investment in technology for the business and will put us right at the forefront of this sector in the south of England.

 

We already have an enviable reputation for the quality of our testing and analysis of all sorts of environmental and microbiological samples – all nationally accredited through the UK Accreditation Service. This investment takes us to the next level.

 

We will mainly be using this instrument for drinking water testing and it will enable us to test to the very highest standards of quality as determined by the Drinking Water Inspectorate.

 

With the ICP-MS, we’ll be testing for metals such as lead, arsenic, antimony, mercury and cadmium in water samples for our clients.

 

The flame in the new equipment burns as hot as the surface of the sun – 6,000 degrees Centigrade – during the analysis process.

 

The ICP-MS equipment is being built in Japan and is expected to be delivered and commissioned in the our laboratory before the end of the year.

 

Lara Johnson from Shimadzu said: “We have been working with Envirochem since 2012, when the first total organic carbon analyser was purchased. We are delighted to be working together again, for the fourth time, on the delivery and installation of the new ICP-MS system.”

Love Island-style hot tubs and swimming pools creating a soup of bacteria

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Owners of swimming pools and hot tubs are creating a breeding ground for bacteria that could cause serious illness and infection by not maintaining them properly, scientists in Hampshire have revealed.

 

The growing trend for domestic hot tubs fuelled by popular TV programmes such as Love Island is  increasing the risk of people picking up serious illnesses from a soup of bacteria swirling about in the water.

 

Microbiologists at the Envirochem laboratory in Fareham have discovered a stomach-churning potpourri of bacteria in recent tests that suggest the messages about maintenance are not getting through to owners.

 

Nineteen recent inspections of water quality in hot tubs and pools have failed the basic health tests. Bacteria found in the water has included:

 

  • High counts of bacteria, yeast or mould spores in water at 37C
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa – which can cause urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, dermatitis and gastrointestinal infections
  • Legionella – can cause a potentially fatal pneumonia-type illness
  • coli – normally only found in human and animal faeces, e.coli does not grow in water and only indicates contaminated water

 

Inspections of both commercial and domestic pools and hot tubs have revealed the water-borne bacteria. This is despite manufacturers and companies providing instructions on how to maintain their facilities appropriately.

 

Head of Microbiology at Broadcut-based Envirochem, Dr Duncan Russell, said: “Infectious agents can be easily introduced to a spa pool by bathers, from dirt entering the pool or from the water source itself. Once in the spa pool, conditions often exist for these infectious agents to grow and proliferate.

 

“The Code of Practice for swimming pool water from the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group sets out how the technical operation of the pool should function for safe and successful swimming pool water.

 

“Swimming pool water should be micro biologically tested monthly to monitor for the presence of potentially harmful micro-organisms.

 

“The wide availability of home testing kits for water quality makes it much easier today for individuals to ensure their hot tubs and swimming pools are as clean as they should be, keeping the risk of illness and infection to a minimum.”

 

Please feel free to contact us on live chat or via the form below;

 

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What can I do to help reduce air pollution?

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Air pollution can cause all matter of problems – from short-term effects like headaches and dizziness, to long-term problems such as respiratory issues and some cancers.

 

As a team of air quality scientists, we regularly see the effects of air pollution – predominantly increased levels of Nitrogen Oxide (NO2) and particulate, which are just a small number of the toxic substances that pollute our air.

 

We’ve put together a few ways that – little by little – we can all help reduce air pollution.

It starts at home:

Leaving lights switched on, appliances plugged in, and taking baths use large amounts of energy, which all contribute to air pollution. Making small changes – like making the most of natural light, ensuring everything is switched off before leaving the house or when it’s not in use, and opting for a quick shower instead of a bath can all make a difference!

 

Re-think your journey:

 

Cars are one of the top causes of air pollution – emissions released by cars and the production of fuel are huge contributors to the polluted air we breathe. Driving is often a necessity, especially if you don’t live in the city, but have a think about the times when it’s not. Can you lift share? Walk, cycle or use public transport? Reduce the amount of car journeys you take per week? Small changes make a big difference.

 

Amend your shopping list:

 

The production of processed foods, packaging and products all take their toll on the air we breathe every day. While producers should be taking it upon themselves to develop products in a way that is as un-harmful as possible, consumers can also do their bit by purchasing responsibly. Buying fresh, cooking from scratch more often, eating fewer meat and dairy products, and using cleaning chemical-free cleaning products are all a great start.

 

Helping to reduce your own contributions to air pollution is a great starting point to ensure we are on track for cleaner, safer air.

If you are concerned about the air quality in your home or in your local area, get in touch with the Envirochem team today to find out about our air quality and emissions testing.

 

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Check your home for these four things before starting a DIY project

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If you’re a landlord or a homeowner, a long weekend often means extra time for DIY projects you’ve been meaning to start. Before you do – there are a few things we recommend you check. We’ve compiled a handy checklist of some things to look out for so you can ensure your property is fit for renovation.

1.)  Asbestos

What is it?

Until the late 20th century, asbestos was widely used in building projects – particularly for insulation. The dust created by damaging asbestos can be extremely harmful, and has been known to cause cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Where is it?

While asbestos regulations started to improve in the mid-80’s, a fully-fledged ban was not introduced in the UK until 2009. If your house was built before this time, asbestos may have been used in its initial build – from insulation in the loft and interior walls to the floors and ceilings.
How can we help?

If you suspect there is asbestos in your property, it is important to test for its presence before damaging it – by drilling into it, ripping it out, or even hammering a nail into it. We provide self-test kits so you can safely and easily test for asbestos. Alternatively, our team of expert scientists are also available for call-outs.

2.)  Lead and arsenic in paint

What is it?

Lead and arsenic are substances that were commonly found in paint before their dangers were realised. Lead was popular because it helped accelerate the paint drying process – however, exposure to lead dust was found to cause abdominal pain, headaches and memory problems, among other issues. Arsenic was commonly found in a shade known as ‘Scheele’s Green’, but it was later found to cause arsenic poisoning, which can lead to vomiting and abdominal pain.

Where is it?

Any paint containing lead or arsenic that has chipped off or been scratched can release harmful dust. This can be both inside and outside your house, on skirting boards, in soil and other places.

 

How can we help?

There is no sure-fire way to know if paint contains lead or arsenic without testing for it. Our self-test kits enable you to test for the substances. If you suspect the paint in your home could be harmful, testing it is always the safest option. We can get results back to you in as little as three days.

 

3.) Harmful bacteria in water and water systems

 

What is it?

Water can be home to a number of harmful bacteria – this includes Legionella, which causes a form of pneumonia called Legionnaires disease.

Where is it?

Legionella lives in water – and thrives in temperatures between 20 and 60 degrees celsius. This makes places like dishwashers, hot tubs, pools and domestic water systems the perfect environment for Legionella to lurk.

 

How can we help?

Regularly testing the water systems in your property can help you ensure you or your tenants are not being exposed to Legionella. Our self-test kits can find the bacteria, as well as help you identify a leak source, and find the cause of corrosion.
4.) Indoor air quality

 

What is it?

During home renovations, you are exposed to a number of harmful substances that stay in the air you breathe every day.

Where is it?

Products like paints and varnishes, cleaning agents, and glues can contaminate the air and become a health hazard. Over-exposure to these can lead to headaches, dizziness and nausea.
How can we help?

Our indoor air quality tests help ensure the exposure levels are safe for anyone working or living in the environment. The self-test kit includes detailed and easy-to follow instructions.

Envirochem recommends testing your home before making any DIY decision or starting a renovation project. If for any reason you would prefer for a member of the team to visit the site and carry out tests, you can get in touch with us via the contact form below.

 

 

Envirochem predicts rise in respiratory claims

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We are predicting a rise in claims for respiratory problems after a new inquest into the death of nine-year-old Ella Kissi-Debrah in 2013.

Ella, who lived near the busy South Circular Road in London, died from a fatal asthma attack six years ago. A 2018 report has found that unlawful levels of air pollution were detected just one mile away from her home, and likely contributed to her death.

Pollutants such as Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and particulates can have a significantly negative impact on health conditions – particularly respiratory problems like asthma. We see such pollutants in areas of high traffic congestion, and believe regularly testing for these harmful chemicals is the best way to keep the public safe.

If illegal levels of air pollution are suspected in an area – particularly one with lots of traffic – it is key for private air quality testing to be carried out to ensure toxic levels of pollutants are managed accordingly.

We are regularly called out to monitor and test the air quality in large cities, near busy roads, and on construction sites. We have seen the levels of toxic chemicals are significant near busy roads that are congested – where the exhaust fumes from cars, buses and lorries hang in the air for much longer. People living near these environments are being exposed to harmful chemicals when they breathe in this air.

 

We provide air quality surveys for all types of situations.

 

  • To measure changes in airborne dust concentrations.
  • Changes in airborne particulates, which may arise from site activities such as demolition, can have a serious impact on health to local residents or employees.
  • Air quality surveys can be used to determine whether site activities are likely to have an impact on air quality.

Our results can identify if people’s health is at risk, and what actions to take to reduce the risk.

 

For more information please fill out the form below or live chat us;

 

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Testing the water systems in your home is crucial  

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We all want to live and work in a safe, clean environment, and many of us will take a number of precautions to ensure that we do!

However, too often, we forget about the harmful bacteria that can lurk in water systems within our home or workplace – whether that be radiators, swimming pools or even our shower heads.
At Envirochem, we recommend regularly testing water systems to ensure they are clean, safe and free from any nasty substances. That’s why we sell a range of self-test kits that allow you to check for the presence of harmful bacteria and chemicals.

Testing for Legionella

Legionella is the bacteria that causes Legionnaires disease, which is a form of pneumonia. It can be found in various water systems in your workplace and home – from spa pools and dishwashers to water coolers and humidifiers. Our self-test kits allow you quickly and easily to check for the presence of Legionella in water systems to ensure you, your family or your employees aren’t being exposed to it.

Domestic heating water systems

Have you noticed corrosion on your pipework or radiators? This is often caused by the pH of the water, the water’s chemical make up or even the presence of oxygen in the water. It’s important to identify the cause to ensure no harm is being done and avoid future corrosion. Our self-test kits can help you assess this!

 

Swimming pools

It’s really easy for infectious agents to enter swimming pools and spas – and once they are in there, unfortunately the conditions are usually perfect for them to grow! Regularly testing the water – we recommend minimum once every month – can help avoid outbreaks of ear and eye infections, or gastro-enteritis, as well as helping to detect Legionella. You can purchase one of our kits here.

 

Our self-test kits allow you to take the safety of your home or workplace into your own hands – but if you prefer, our qualified team is always on hand for callouts. Get in touch via the contact form below.

 

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Envirochem is a one-stop-shop for your COSHH compliance needs

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As a professional working with hazardous substances, there are a number of things you need to consider to ensure your own safety, the safety of your employees and of those living/working in the environment around you.

At Envirochem, we can help you cover all of your COSHH compliance needs – whether you’re working directly with, producing, or are exposed to hazardous substances in your workplace.

We’ve broken down our reliable, UKAS accredited COSHH compliance services so you can ensure you’re ticking all the right boxes.

 

Testing hazardous dusts

If you need to test hazardous dusts, our team will happily discuss what your requirements are so we can tailor our approach to suit you. You can find out more about our dust monitoring services and make an enquiry here.

 

Checking noise pollution

We can conduct noise surveys throughout your premises – whether you need us to assess the level of noise, undertake octave band assessments to assist in the choice of noise abatement equipment, or assess daily exposure to give an accurate sample per individual.

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) checks

LEV checks can help control the release of hazardous airborne substances that are released from a process into the workplace environment. We routinely undertake checks of equipment such as fume cabinets, spray booths and dust extract systems – if this is something you need to check for your business, you can get in touch here.

Indoor air quality testing

Making sure the indoor air quality of a workplace is safe before, during and after a project is key. If you need to test a workplace for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), get in touch with us so we can assess the best steps to take. Alternatively, you can order a self-test kit here.
Dispersed Oil Particulate (DOP) Testing

If you use a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter in your workplace, it requires regular maintenance – that’s where we come in. On-site DOP testing is an essential element of this and will ensure it’s of an acceptable standard.

Ensuring your safety equipment is doing its job

 

If Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is ill-fitting, it significantly reduces the protection it offers. We offer Fit Testing on-site, at our laboratory and can also provide training in the correct use of RPE.

 

 

For more information please fill out the form below or live chat us today.

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What sort of risks would Ed Sheeran be taking if he swam in his “natural pool”

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A growing trend for natural and chemical-free pools was brought into sharp focus this week when the neighbours of the nation’s favourite musician Ed Sheeran said they were worried his new pond could double as a swimming pool.

 

Here at Envirochem we have noticed a growing trend for these natural swimming pools – a garden pond with plants to oxygenate the water and keep it clean enough to swim in. No need for chlorine or other potentially harmful chemicals.

 

In Ed Sheeran’s original planning application for the pool on his estate in Suffolk, it was described as supporting ‘nature conservation’, however, some of the star’s neighbours have said they are worried it could be used for wild parties, swimming and other recreational activities.

The neighbours might be worried about loud noise from late night parties. But Ed might have other things to be worried about if he was thinking of swimming in his natural pool.

What are natural pools?

 

Natural pools are becoming increasingly popular – perhaps most commonly owned by the rich and famous. They tend to blend into outdoor environments better than a traditional pool, and use plants in place of chemicals for cleaning purposes. Water filters through the plants, as well as enabling an ecosystem to exist within the pool.

 

Sounds like a good idea, right?

What’s the problem?

Without proper filtration and regular cleaning, pools like these can become home to harmful legionella, which regularly occurs in natural water sources. Legionella is a bacteria that can cause Legionnaires’ disease – a lung infection caused by inhaling the bacteria. Symptoms can range from severe chest pain to high temperatures.

What should I do if I’m concerned?

If you are concerned about the water quality of a natural pool, we sell self-test kits so you can quickly, safely and easily test for the presence of legionella. Purchase yours here, or get in touch with a member of the Envirochem team today.

Or fill out the form below for more information;

 

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Test your home for lead-based paint before renovating or redecorating

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If you’re thinking of redecorating or renovating your home, before you pick out a new paint colour and start taking measurements, it’s crucial to test for the presence of lead-based paint. It is a great way to ensure your walls are safe before releasing potentially harmful dust and paint chips into your home. In fact, there are a number of substances you should consider testing for before making changes to your home.

What is it?

Until the early nineties, when it was banned from being sold in the United Kingdom due to the dangers is posed to people’s health, lead was a common component in paint. If you live in a home that was built before 1992, there’s a chance it contains lead-based paint – even if it’s hidden under layers of new paint!

Why do I need to test for it?

When left untouched, lead paint is generally unharmful. However, if it is disturbed during home improvements – from being cracked or drilled into, for example – it becomes hazardous. If paint chips are ingested, or lead dust is inhaled, there are a number of risks – especially for young children or pregnant women.

High exposure to lead dust can cause a number of problems that affect the body’s organs and function, including the neurological, gastrointestinal and reproductive organs. Symptoms can include headaches, insomnia and nausea, among others.

What should I do about it?

If you’re a landlord planning on renovating, or a homeowner thinking of doing some DIY, the first step is to test for the presence of lead in paint.

Our self-test kits are safe, easy to use, and come complete with instructions and return packaging. The results will be back to you within three working days.

Purchase your self-test kit here, or get in touch with a member of the Envirochem team today: on our live chat or via the form below;

 

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