Legionella Testing For Aged Care in Sydney

Legionella Testing For Aged Care

Protecting residents in aged care environments from Legionnaires’ disease requires proactive monitoring and sampling. As this population is particularly susceptible to infection, regular Legionella testing plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe, compliant water system.

Why is Legionella Testing Important in Aged Care?

Vulnerable Residents – Older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe illness from Legionella exposure.
Early Detection – Routine testing helps identify contamination early, allowing action before a potential outbreak.
Safe Water Systems – Regular testing supports clean, safe water for both residents and staff.

Legal and Compliance Requirements

Australian Standards – Testing and risk control should align with guidelines like AS/NZS 3666 and local health department advice.
Regulatory Risk – While testing may not be mandatory in every case, failure to assess or manage risks can result in serious legal or health consequences.
Water Management Plan (WMP) – Facilities must develop and maintain a WMP that outlines control procedures, monitoring frequency, and response protocols.

How Often Should Testing Be Done?

Based on Risk Profile – Factors such as the complexity of the water system, past results, and resident vulnerability determine how often tests should occur.
Monthly or More Frequent – Facilities with high-risk systems (e.g., cooling towers, hot water tanks) may require monthly or even weekly testing.
During Outbreaks – If contamination or Legionnaires’ cases are suspected, more intensive and immediate testing is needed

What’s Included in Legionella Sampling?

Risk Assessment – A full review of the water system is performed, identifying areas of concern like storage tanks, heaters, taps, and dead legs.
Targeted Sampling – Water is collected from key risk zones including showers, outlets, and any areas prone to stagnation.
Lab Analysis – Samples are sent to NATA-accredited laboratories, using both culture methods and rapid molecular techniques like PCR.
Clear Reporting – Digital reports are sent via email or PDF with results and next-step recommendations.

Ongoing Water Management

- Qualified Technicians – Sampling is handled by trained professionals familiar with Legionella risk and control.
- WMP Guidance – We help establish and maintain a WMP that meets your facility’s specific needs.
- Routine Monitoring – Consistent documentation and testing ensure long-term safety and compliance.

Talk To The Experts Today

Palm Lake Care has service agreements for Compliance Plumbing, Electrical, and Legionella Water Management at all our Aged Care Facilities. Excellent Service, Industry Knowledge, and reporting.

David Wraight – Assets and Facilities Manager at Palm Lake Care

Our Hot Water, Backflow and TMV Testing is all scheduled for me with prior notice. Legionella water samples collected and lab tested. Professional Reactive and Scheduled maintenance - Great Work.

Francis Chiang Maintenance Manager/Property Manager SunnyCare

Bertram's are a pleasure to work with on our PPM Schedule maintenance tasks. Highly Recommend !

Jamie Lane – BlueCare Maintenance Supervisor – Sunshine Coast Aged Care and Community Services

Get a Quote

1800 826 675

compliance@bertramandson.com.au

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