Every building with plumbing is at risk of harboring Legionella bacteria. The safest and most effective way to stay compliant with ASHRAE Standard 188—and prevent dangerous outbreaks—is by implementing a Water Safety Management Plan for Legionella (WSMP). These plans protect public health, reduce liability, and help facilities stay audit ready.
Why Every Facility Needs a Water Safety Management Plan for Legionella
- Legal & Regulatory Compliance – Meet ASHRAE 188, CMS, and Joint Commission requirements.
- Reputation & Liability Protection – The average Legionella claim costs over $10 million.
- Occupant Safety – Vulnerable populations (elderly, patients, immunocompromised) face the highest risks.
Risk Factors That Increase Legionella Growth
Your facility may be at higher risk if it has:
- Cooling towers, hot tubs, decorative fountains, or central hot water systems.
- 10+ floors with complex plumbing layouts.
- A history of water main breaks or construction disruptions.
The 8 Steps of a Water Safety Management Plan
- Assign a cross-functional water safety team.
- Conduct a risk assessment of all water systems.
- Identify control measures (temperature, disinfection, flushing).
- Establish monitoring procedures.
- Set control limits (acceptable water quality ranges).
- Document all monitoring results.
- Take corrective action when limits are exceeded.
- Validate and verify the plan annually.
Partnering With Experts for Legionella Safety
While some tasks can be handled in-house, a trusted water treatment partner ensures your plan is audit-ready and effective. Experts bring:
- Knowledge of industry standards.
- Access to advanced testing methods.
- Rapid response capabilities in emergencies.
Take Action with a Complete Water Safety Management Plan for Legionella
A WSMP is the cornerstone of Legionella prevention—but it only works if supported by regular testing and corrective action.
