What factor most likely affects the severity of Legionella risk in a domestic water system following a construction project or water main break?

What factor most likely affects the severity of Legionella risk in a domestic water system following a construction project or water main break?

• A. Quality of plumbing materials used
• B. Extent of the domestic water system affected
• C. Age of the building's plumbing
• D. Frequency of water usage in the building

Answer: (B)

The severity of Legionella risk in a domestic water system following a construction project or water main break is most influenced by the extent of the domestic water system affected. When there is significant disruption, such as a water main break or construction activity, the conditions that promote the growth of Legionella bacteria can be exacerbated. For example, if large sections of the plumbing system are impacted, there can be an increase in sediment accumulation, temperature fluctuations, and stagnant water. These factors can create an ideal environment for Legionella to proliferate. Stagnation, especially, is crucial since the bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water. Assessing the extent of the system involved helps in determining the potential areas of risk. It is essential to investigate all affected parts of the plumbing system in order to take appropriate preventive measures, such as ensuring the water is properly treated, maintaining adequate temperatures, and implementing flushing protocols to mitigate any potential growth of Legionella.

The severity of Legionella risk in a domestic water system following a construction project or water main break is most influenced by the extent of the domestic water system affected. When there is significant disruption, such as a water main break or construction activity, the conditions that promote the growth of Legionella bacteria can be exacerbated.

For example, if large sections of the plumbing system are impacted, there can be an increase in sediment accumulation, temperature fluctuations, and stagnant water. These factors can create an ideal environment for Legionella to proliferate. Stagnation, especially, is crucial since the bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water.

Assessing the extent of the system involved helps in determining the potential areas of risk. It is essential to investigate all affected parts of the plumbing system in order to take appropriate preventive measures, such as ensuring the water is properly treated, maintaining adequate temperatures, and implementing flushing protocols to mitigate any potential growth of Legionella.