Contract News!
GMS is proud to announce that we have been awarded a new contract to deliver Legionella Services for Bolton Council over the next three years. This marks a continuation of a longstanding relationship with Bolton Council, spanning 19 years through both direct contracts and partnerships with FM providers. We are now delighted to be reappointed… Read more »
Why Dirty Water Systems May Show No Detectable Legionella: A Closer Look at Bacterial Dynamics and Mutations
In water hygiene management, it’s not uncommon to encounter heavily contaminated water systems that, despite appearing ideal for Legionella pneumophila proliferation, return negative results for Legionella during microbiological analysis. These situations often raise questions about sampling accuracy, environmental suitability, bacterial competition, and the complex behaviour of microbial communities under stress. High TVC, No Legionella: What’s… Read more »
The Importance of Water Hygiene Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM)
Water is essential to life, health, and productivity — but when poorly maintained, it can become a source of serious health risks. This is where Water Hygiene Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) comes into play. Whether it’s in hospitals, schools, commercial buildings, or industrial facilities, maintaining clean and safe water systems through proactive strategies is not… Read more »
Legionella Infection: Transmission, Risk Factors, and Control Guidance
The likelihood of developing legionellosis depends on the vulnerability of the individual and the route of exposure. The primary means of infection is through inhaling aerosols—tiny airborne particles that originate from droplets. These aerosols are typically produced when water is sprayed (e.g. from showers, irrigation systems) or splashes onto surfaces (e.g. turning on a tap… Read more »
When Should Cold Water Storage Tanks Be Cleaned?
Water Sustainability and the Need for Conservation With the growing pressures of population expansion, urbanisation, and the global climate crisis, the demand for water resources is increasing at an unsustainable rate. Projections indicate that by 2050, an additional 4,000 million litres of water per day—equivalent to approximately 1,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools—will be required to meet… Read more »
The Importance of Potable Water Sampling from Cold Water Storage Tanks
Potable water—water that is safe for human consumption—is a vital component of public health infrastructure. Ensuring its quality is not only a regulatory requirement in many regions but also a fundamental aspect of protecting the health and wellbeing of building occupants. One critical but sometimes overlooked area in maintaining potable water safety is the regular… Read more »
Understanding Expansion Vessels in Water Systems
What is an Expansion Vessel? An expansion vessel—sometimes called a hydraulic accumulator—is a critical component in water systems that helps manage pressure fluctuations. These vessels contain a gas cushion that absorbs sudden changes in pressure, thereby protecting the system. While “pressure vessel” is a commonly used term, it’s worth noting that not all pressure vessels… Read more »
Why You Should Involve a Water Hygiene Consultant in Your Water System Refurbishment Plans
When planning a refurbishment of your building’s water systems — whether it’s an upgrade to old pipework, installing new tanks, or modernising controls — it’s tempting to think that a good M&E contractor or facilities team can handle it all. But one crucial expert often overlooked in these projects is the Water Hygiene Consultant. Their… Read more »
The Importance of Unvented Hot Water (G3) Servicing and Maintenance
Unvented hot water systems have become a popular choice in modern homes and commercial buildings due to their ability to deliver high-pressure hot water on demand, without the need for a cold-water storage tank. However, with these systems comes a vital responsibility: regular servicing and maintenance. Not only is this essential for ensuring the efficiency… Read more »
Increasing Water Hygiene Risks – Water System Components: Showers, Outlets and Terminal Fittings
High-Risk Water System Components: Showers, Outlets and Terminal Fittings Flexible Hoses: Technical Considerations for Water Hygiene and Legionella Risk Management In accordance with HSG274 Part 2, Section 2.31, the use of flexible hoses in domestic water systems presents a recognised risk factor for Legionella proliferation, particularly when hoses are of poor construction quality or installed… Read more »
