All dental surgeries are required to undertake legionella risk assessments of their Dental Unit Water Lines (DUWL) and hot and cold water systems. Whilst the reported incidents of legionella are low, there has recently been growing cause for concern, with legionella being found in up to 25% of DUWLs in the south-west.
How often should dental water lines be tested?
Legionella can be transmitted via contaminated water droplets, aerosols, and via contaminated instruments such as ultrasonic scalers or high-speed hand pieces.
Emergency dentistry London assessments are necessary periodically, and water samples should be taken to further aid the analysis of the water quality. Records must be kept of routine checks, cleaning and disinfection as part of a legionella management program.
