Legionella

Legionella Pneumophila bacterium monitoring and risk assessment tool. Assess water system temperatures and determine the risk of Legionella development.

Legionella Risk Assessment

The Legionella Pneumophila bacterium thrives in water supply systems and air conditioning systems - and may cause Legionnaires disease.

Critical Temperature Ranges

  • Danger Zone: 69°F (20.5°C) to 122°F (50°C) - Bacteria thrives
  • Survival Limit: Up to 131°F (55°C) for 5-6 hours
  • Destruction: Above 158°F (70°C) - Instantaneous destruction
  • Safe Operating: At least 140°F (60°C) - General protection

High-Risk Systems

  • Cooling towers and evaporative condensers
  • Scrubber systems with low temperatures
  • Low temperature hot water supply systems

Prevention Measures

  • Keep basins and sumps free of mud and organic debris
  • Use chemical and organic inhibitors where recommended
  • Avoid water stagnation - circulate the water through the system
  • Avoid leaks from processes to the cooling water
  • Maintain proper operating temperatures

Warning: Tap water at 140°F can cause full-thickness burn in 10 seconds. Always mix down to lower temperature before the tap.

System TypeCurrent Temperature (°F)Current Temperature (°C)Risk LevelRecommended Action
Cooling Tower8529.4High RiskIncrease temperature or apply chemical treatment
Hot Water Supply13054.4Moderate RiskHeat to at least 140°F (60°C)
Evaporative Condenser9535High RiskImplement chemical inhibitors and circulation
Heating System15568.3SafeMaintain current temperature and monitoring
Process Water11043.3High RiskPrevent leaks and apply treatment protocol
Calculator

Inputs

Results

Temperature in Celsius-- °C
Risk Level--