Revolutionizing Water Management Plans, Legionella Control, and Risk Assessment with Chemstar WATER

The New Era of Water Safety and Risk Management

Water is the lifeblood of every building, campus, and industrial facility. As water conservation, public health, and regulatory compliance become ever more critical, the need for robust Water Management Plans (WMPs), Legionella management, and comprehensive risk assessment has never been greater. At Chemstar WATER, we are at the forefront of this revolution, providing industry-leading solutions that safeguard your facility, occupants, and reputation.

Our approach combines decades of hands-on experience, the latest scientific research, and a relentless commitment to client success. Whether you operate a hospital, manufacturing plant, university, or commercial property, Chemstar WATER’s ASSE12080-certified hygienists and water safety experts deliver ASHRAE 188-compliant programs that set the gold standard for water management, Legionella control, and risk mitigation.

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Why Water Management Plans (WMPs) Matter

The Rising Importance of Water Safety

Waterborne pathogens, aging infrastructure, and complex building systems have made water safety a top priority for facility managers, engineers, and building owners. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local authorities now mandate Legionella water management programs for many facilities, especially those serving vulnerable populations.

A comprehensive Water Management Plan is more than a regulatory checkbox—it’s a proactive strategy that:

• Reduces the risk of Legionella and other waterborne illnesses

• Protects your occupants, staff, and visitors

• Ensures regulatory compliance and avoids costly penalties

• Extends the life of your water systems and equipment

• Supports sustainability and operational efficiency

Who Needs a Water Management Plan?

WMPs are essential for:

• Healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, long-term care)

• Commercial buildings (offices, hotels, high-rises)

• Industrial plants (manufacturing, food processing)

• Educational institutions (universities, schools)

• Multi-family residential complexes

• Any facility with complex or aging water systems

If your building uses cooling towers, hot tubs, decorative fountains, or has large plumbing systems, you are at increased risk for Legionella and other waterborne pathogens.

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The Chemstar WATER Approach: Excellence in Water Management, Legionella Control, and Risk Assessment

Decades of Proven Experience

Since 1998, Chemstar WATER has been a trusted leader in water treatment, safety, and management. Our history and mission are rooted in innovation, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We challenge industry norms and deliver solutions that go beyond compliance—empowering our clients to achieve true water safety and operational resilience.

ASSE12080-Certified Hygienists and ASHRAE 188 Compliance

Our team includes ASSE12080-certified professionals, trained and tested to the highest standards in Legionella water management. We deliver ASHRAE Standard 188-compliant programs, ensuring your facility meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements.

Comprehensive, Collaborative, and Customized

Every facility is unique. That’s why Chemstar WATER’s process is collaborative and tailored to your specific risks, needs, and goals. Our services include:

• On-site risk assessment

• Baseline sampling and testing

• Plan development and implementation

• Ongoing monitoring, auditing, and support

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Understanding Legionella: Risks, Regulations, and Responsibility

What Is Legionella?

Legionella is a naturally occurring bacterium found in freshwater environments. While generally harmless in nature, Legionella can become a serious health hazard when it proliferates in man-made water systems—such as cooling towers, hot water tanks, and plumbing networks.

Health Risks: Legionnaires’ Disease and Pontiac Fever

When inhaled through water droplets, Legionella can cause:

• Legionnaires’ disease: A severe form of pneumonia with potentially fatal outcomes, especially for the elderly, immunocompromised, or those with chronic lung conditions.

• Pontiac fever: A milder, flu-like illness.

Outbreaks are often traced to poorly managed water systems in hospitals, hotels, manufacturing plants, and large buildings.

Regulatory Landscape: CDC, ASHRAE, and Local Mandates

The CDC, ASHRAE, and local authorities require Legionella water management programs in many settings. The ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 188-2021, “Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems,” is the industry benchmark for compliance.

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Chemstar WATER’s Water Management Plan Process

1. On-Site Risk Assessment

Our water safety journey begins with a thorough, on-site risk assessment. Our experts:

• Map your entire water system, from source to disposal

• Identify potential hazards, points of stagnation, and areas prone to microbial growth

• Evaluate system design, maintenance practices, and operational controls

We use process flow diagrams, system descriptions, and photographic documentation to create a detailed risk profile for your facility.

2. Baseline Sampling and Testing

Chemstar WATER conducts baseline water sampling and testing to establish your facility’s current water quality. This includes:

• Testing for Legionella and other pathogens

• Measuring temperature, pH, disinfectant levels, and other critical parameters

• Identifying areas for improvement and immediate corrective action

Our data-driven approach ensures that your Water Management Plan is grounded in real-world conditions.

3. Developing a Custom Water Management Plan (WMP)

Based on our assessment and testing, we develop a comprehensive, facility-specific WMP that includes:

• ASHRAE 188 compliance audit

• Identification of your water safety team and roles

• Building characterization and process flow diagrams

• Legionella hazard analysis

• Control limits and operating goals

• Monitoring and sampling schedules

• Corrective action protocols

• Documentation requirements

• Auditing, verification, and validation procedures

We review the plan collaboratively with your team to ensure understanding and buy-in at every level.

4. Implementation and Training

Our experts work alongside your staff to implement the WMP, providing hands-on training and support. We ensure that your team is equipped to:

• Monitor key control points

• Respond to deviations and emergencies

• Maintain thorough records for compliance and accountability

5. Ongoing Monitoring, Auditing, and Continuous Improvement

Water management is not a “set and forget” process. Chemstar WATER provides ongoing monitoring, regular audits, and continuous improvement support. We recommend:

• Annual audits for most facilities

• Quarterly audits for healthcare and high-risk environments

Our auditing process includes verification and validation activities to confirm that your WMP is effective and up-to-date.

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The Chemstar WATER Difference: Why Choose Us?

Industry-Leading Expertise and Certification

Our ASSE12080-certified hygienists are among the most qualified professionals in the industry. This certification, recognized by ASSE International, ensures our team has the expertise to assess, manage, and mitigate Legionella risks in complex water systems.

Decades of Proven Results

With a legacy dating back to 1998, Chemstar WATER has helped countless clients achieve water safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. Our case studies showcase real-world success stories across healthcare, education, industry, and commercial real estate.

Comprehensive, Turnkey Solutions

From risk assessment to plan development, implementation, and ongoing support, Chemstar WATER is your single-source partner for water management and Legionella control. Our services are tailored to your unique needs and delivered with professionalism, transparency, and integrity.

Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

We leverage the latest technologies and best practices to deliver sustainable, cost-effective solutions. Our approach supports your facility’s environmental goals and reduces water and energy consumption.

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Key Components of a Chemstar WATER Management Plan

Process Flow Diagrams

We create detailed process flow diagrams for each water system, mapping every step that impacts water quality:

• Source and incoming water

• Pumping and circulation

• Storage tanks and reservoirs

• Treatment and filtration systems

• Points of use and disposal

System Descriptions and Documentation

Our plans include comprehensive descriptions of your water systems, major equipment, and treatment chemicals or devices. We document:

• Equipment nameplates and specifications

• Operating set points and maintenance records

• Field notes on observations, anomalies, and corrective actions

Control Limits and Operating Goals

We establish clear control limits and operating goals for key parameters—such as temperature, disinfectant levels, and flow rates—to minimize the risk of Legionella and other hazards.

Monitoring and Sampling Schedules

Our WMPs include detailed schedules for:

• Routine water testing (temperature, pH, disinfectant, Legionella)

• Visual inspections and system checks

• Preventive maintenance and corrective actions

Corrective Action Protocols

We develop step-by-step protocols for responding to out-of-range measurements, positive Legionella tests, or system failures. This ensures rapid, effective action to protect your occupants and maintain compliance.

Documentation and Recordkeeping

Thorough documentation is essential for regulatory compliance and continuous improvement. Our plans specify:

• Recordkeeping requirements

• Reporting templates and logs

• Procedures for audits, reviews, and updates

Auditing, Verification, and Validation

Regular audits are critical to confirm your WMP is effective and up-to-date. Chemstar WATER provides:

• Verification: Ensuring procedures are followed as designed

• Validation: Confirming that control measures are effective in reducing Legionella risk

• Continuous improvement: Updating the plan based on audit findings, new regulations, or changes in building use

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Regulatory Compliance and Industry Standards

ASHRAE 188: The Gold Standard

ASHRAE Standard 188 sets the benchmark for Legionella risk management in building water systems. Chemstar WATER’s WMPs are fully compliant with this standard, ensuring your facility meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements.

CDC Guidelines

The CDC provides comprehensive guidance on developing and implementing effective water management programs. Our approach aligns with CDC best practices, supporting your efforts to protect public health and safety.

Local and State Regulations

Many states and municipalities have adopted their own requirements for Legionella control and water management. Chemstar WATER stays up-to-date on all relevant regulations, ensuring your facility remains in compliance.

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The Science Behind Legionella Control

How Legionella Spreads

Legionella bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water and can colonize:

• Cooling towers

• Hot water tanks and heaters

• Decorative fountains

• Showerheads and faucets

• Plumbing systems with “dead legs” or infrequent use

When water containing Legionella becomes aerosolized (e.g., through mist, spray, or vapor), it can be inhaled and cause infection.

Effective Control Measures

Chemstar WATER’s WMPs incorporate proven control measures, such as:

• Maintaining appropriate water temperatures (hot water above 140°F, cold below 77°F)

• Ensuring adequate disinfectant residuals (chlorine, monochloramine, etc.)

• Preventing stagnation through regular flushing and circulation

• Cleaning and maintaining equipment (cooling towers, tanks, etc.)

• Routine monitoring and rapid response to deviations

The Role of Testing and Monitoring

Regular water testing is essential for early detection and control of Legionella. Chemstar WATER uses state-of-the-art sampling and laboratory analysis to provide actionable data for your facility.

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Training, Education, and Culture Change

Empowering Your Team

A successful Water Management Plan requires buy-in and participation from everyone involved in water system operations, maintenance, and management. Chemstar WATER provides comprehensive training and education to empower your team, including:

• Understanding Legionella risks and control measures

• Proper sampling, monitoring, and recordkeeping

• Emergency response protocols

Building a Culture of Water Safety

We help you foster a culture of water safety and accountability, ensuring that best practices are embedded in your organization’s daily operations.

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