Heating, cooling, plumbing and infrastructure specialist Uponor has launched a CIBSE-approved CPD, entitled ‘Systems for Water Hygiene.’

Aimed at mechanical design engineers and plumbing installers to highlight the risk of legionella on the plumbing network and advise on best practice installation layouts and new technology, the CPD focuses on the perils of stagnant water on the network.

Dave Lancaster, applications specialist at Uponor, said: “Our CPD aims to highlight the fact that legionella will breed rapidly in any plumbing installation where stagnant water can collect at temperatures between 25°c – 45°c, creating a significant health risk in any environment from private homes to workplaces, healthcare properties and public buildings. It also suggests pipe network designs, new product innovations and materials that can be used to minimise the risk for a much healthier and more hygienic installation.”

The CPD explains that the risk of legionella on the pipe network has actually increased in recent years due to new water saving technologies used to reduce flow velocity on the network and how design innovation can improve water safety while supporting more efficient demand. It outlines the varying levels of risks for Tee, Serial and Loop installations, highlighting the benefits of Serial and Loop installations in avoiding dead ends and dead legs on the system where stagnant water can collect if the plumbing is not in regularly use or flushed regularly.

The CPD also highlights the benefits of using PE-X or MLC (multi-layer composite) pipe which ensures a smooth internal pipe surface, resistant to calcification, rather than traditional copper piping. According to Uponor, limescale build-up in copper piping can create an environment that harbours bio-film growth and a potential Legionella risk.

Dave concluded: “Our aim is to help specifiers and installers implement a best practice approach to achieving water hygiene and reducing the risk of legionella in a healthcare environment, contemporary domestic dwellings, commercial properties and public buildings through product innovation, improved design and material selection.”