Effect of the change of the water supply pipes of the Juan Ramón Jiménez Hospital in the proliferation of Legionella

The impact of the modernization of the water systems was assessed through microbiological screening of the flowing water for Legionella Neumophila at Juan Ramón Jiménez Hospital in Huelva. As a consequence of the high number of this microorganism detected in previous periodic creenings, despite quite frequent chlorine-based and thermal disinfections, the decision was taken to substitute the original hot and cold water distribution pipes of galvanized steel for others with a higher spectrum of resistance to chemicals. Thus, 316L stainless steel and cross-linked polythene became the obvious choice, also considering the fact that they are less prone to biofilm formation. Similarly, water filters were placed at the hospital’s general water intake point and at the hot water inlet facilities. New hot water storage devices were assembled. In this paper, information is provided on their layout and the building materials used. Considerations are presented on the most appropriate kind of materials to minimize the risks of bacterial proliferation. The implementation of the measures described in this paper has resulted in a drastic decrease of Legionella Neumophila population in flowing water.