Meet Alex Stelmach – Keeping the GMS Engine Running Smoothly
Today on Meet the Team, we’re catching up with the wonderful Alex Stelmach, who plays a crucial role behind the scenes at GMS. With over two years of experience under her belt, Alex has become an essential part of the team—known for her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and team spirit. A Day in the… Read more »
Meet the Team: Abi Rogers – From Admin to Engineer
At GMS, we’re proud to celebrate the people who make our work not just productive, but truly enjoyable. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on Abi Rogers, whose journey with us has been nothing short of inspiring. From Admin Desk to Engineering Sites Abi joined GMS in September 2023 on a 12-month contract, originally covering maternity… Read more »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Legionella Dossier – Podcast with Carl Ollerton GMS Services Ltd
When Jamie Green of Legionella Dossier met up with over Technical Director Carl Ollerton.
Housing Association fined £900k after putting resident at risk of exposure to legionella in the properties water system.
44 samples were found to be positive which indicated that the water system was colinised with Legionella Bacteria. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sucessfully prosicuted Sanctury Housing and identified that they poorly managed the risk of legionella in the water system of Vincent Naughton Court, with staff inadequately trained and supervised. The residents were… Read more »
