BS 8580-2 is a British Standard Code of Practice that was released on 31^st January 2022 and relates to risk assessments for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other waterborne pathogens.

As part of our commitment to ensuring we closely follow all the recommended guidelines, we’ve taken the time to ensure everyone at Aquatrust is clued up on the information provided by the code of practice and is relevantly trained.

Here’s a little more about BS 8580-2 and what it means for us and the industry.

Why does it exist?

The risk assessment guidance came about after experts identified a lack of advice on how to properly conduct a risk assessment for waterborne pathogens other than Legionella. This largely pertains to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA).

The guidance helps those involved in water safety better understand and manage the risks of these other waterborne pathogens.

What does the Code of Practice cover?

The practice mainly focuses on the risk assessment process for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterium that’s largely found in soil and water and can cause disease and infection in humans.

Who should undertake a risk assessment for Pseudomonas aeruginosa?

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is particularly harmful for immunocompromised people, so settings where the water systems and equipment could pose a threat to high-risk patients should be monitored more carefully.

This predominantly applies to healthcare settings like hospitals and care, nursing and residential homes, but the risk assessments should also be undertaken anywhere where the water systems and equipment could carry the bacterium. This includes the educational, travel, industrial, leisure and beauty sectors, including health spas, nail bars and tattoo parlours.

What are the benefits of the code of practice?

• It ensures those in the water industry are armed with the unique information they need in order to correctly undertake a Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) risk assessment.
• It means that everyone is aware of the latest and most efficient approach to Pseudomonas aeruginosa risk assessments.
• While the practice is largely concerned with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, its principles can also be applied to other opportunistic waterborne pathogens.
• It helps healthcare providers demonstrate compliant risk management.
• Similarly, it can help leisure sector organisations maintain compliance.
• It helps individuals expand their knowledge and strengthen their expertise in water safety and risk assessments.

At Aquatrust, all our staff have had additional training to ensure we follow all standards set out by the code of practice. This means that we understand and can manage the water safety risks in areas where Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a concern.

Quality standards are central to what we do. We take our responsibilities seriously and always strive to lead by example, with the highest of professional and legal standards. Staying on top of codes of practice and making sure our staff are informed is a top priority, and we’ll continue following the appropriate guidance to ensure we can provide you with the very best water safety and hygiene services.

Are you looking for a water treatment company to help your business or organisation stay safe and compliant? Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.