Choosing your supplier of Legionella Tests Kits need not be so difficult. First, decide a water quality testing routine, then choose the test kits to use. There are many products available in the market. So you’ll need to ensure that the one you’ll be using will allow you to access accurate, easy-to-understand, and (most importantly) actionable reports. Consider the following tips when shopping for a Legionella test kit:
Choose a supplier with a reputable brand
There is very little difference in cost, but the peace of mind you get from knowing that the test kit you’re using suits world-class standards is priceless. Contact a supplier or manufacturer that already has an established reputation in the industry. Check for suppliers who specialise in your profession, such as Care Homes.
Check for proof of product quality
Your choice of testing kit directly affects your safety, health and well-being. So make sure the supplier you choose does all the testing in UKAS accredited laboratories.
Common Mistakes – Don’t Accept “postal” testing
Some companies provide pre-paid envelopes to send sample back to them by Royal Mail. DON’T use this type of service, the results are unlikely to be accepted. Why, because UKAS impose a time limit on the time from taking the sample until laboratory testing begins. The time limit varies according to the test but is usually just hours unless the sample is maintained within a specific temperature range. Using a postal service certainly won’t meet the temperature constraints and only rarely arrives on time for compliant testing. Always use a supplier where the cost of picking up the samples by courier is INCLUDED in the price.
A reputable supplier will inform you NOT to take samples on certain dates. Why? because they know they cannot guarantee to receive the sample in time to meet UKAS standards. For instance if you sample on a Bank Holiday, there may be courier issues or reduced staff levels in the laboratory.
Check the sample bottle size! Some suppliers provide smaller bottles to save on postage even though UKAS specify a much larger sample size.
Choose a supplier that employs staff that understand water systems. Being able to interpret a result and relate it to your particular water system is imperative.
Consider the process
The simpler it is to use the testing kit, the better your chances of getting accurate results. Complicated methods can easily lead to errors and missteps. The best testing kits are those that offer steps that are as easy as 1-2-3: collect samples, send to the lab for testing, and wait for the report.
Look for substance
Say, you got a positive result. What now? Make sure to select a testing kit that also offers you specific, expert advice depending on the test outcome. The report should provide an explanation of the findings, as well as recommended steps you need to take to either remedy the situation or to simply maintain the good water quality in your water system.
Consider related accessories
Aside from testing kits, there are also other tools that will help you monitor and maintain the quality of water in your property. If you’re an employer, e-learning training courses on Legionella risk management will be invaluable in improving the occupational health and safety standards of your business. Meanwhile, thermometers for monitoring stored water temperatures allow you to conduct efficient monitoring as an effective disease prevention measure.