A pilot scheme to test for Legionella in water tanks at Powys County Council buildings has been given funding by the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region.
Following a small-scale concept study undertaken during the summer the RSPAWIR has awarded £10,000 for the installation of LoRaWAN sensors to be deployed at County Hall and in buildings in Llandrindod Wells.
The automated monitoring is designed to meet regulatory requirements more efficiently, reducing the need for on-site inspections.
The solutions are intended to be simple to use, provide actionable data, and be adaptable to future needs without significant additional costs.
Automating legionella monitoring offers several significant benefits for Powys County Council such as:
Efficiency and Cost Savings: Automation reduces the need for on-site inspections, which are manpower-intensive and costly. This can lead to substantial savings in labour and operational costs.
Regulatory Compliance: Automated systems can ensure continuous monitoring and accurate record-keeping, helping the council meet regulatory requirements more efficiently. This reduces the risk of non-compliance and potential penalties.
Real-Time Data and Alerts: Automated monitoring provides near real-time data and alerts, enabling quicker responses to potential issues. This proactive approach can prevent the spread of legionella bacteria and ensure safer water systems.
Scalability: Automated solutions are easier to scale compared to manual inspections. As the council expands its facilities or as regulatory requirements increase, the automated system can be adapted without significant additional costs.
Actionable Insights: The data collected from automated monitoring can be analysed to identify trends and potential risks, allowing for targeted interventions and better resource allocation.
Councillor Jackie Charlton, Powys County Council cabinet member for a Greener Powys, said: “Overall, automating legionella monitoring can enhance operational efficiency, ensure compliance, and provide valuable insights for better management of water systems in Powys County Council’s buildings.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to pilot this project and hope it will develop into an example of best practice that can be taken up elsewhere and not just in local authority buildings.”