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Water Management Plan

Building Water Management Plan

What Is a Legionella Water Management Plan — And Why Does Your Building Need One?

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If you manage a commercial property—like an office building, healthcare facility, or hotel—chances are you’ve heard of Legionella. This potentially dangerous bacterium can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets from sources like showers, cooling towers, and even decorative fountains.

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To reduce the risk of an outbreak, one of the most effective tools available is a Legionella Water Management Plan (WMP). But what exactly is a WMP, and why is it so important?

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Legionella Water Management Plan?

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A Legionella Water Management Plan is a documented, site-specific program that outlines how a building will monitor, manage, and minimize the risk of Legionella growth in its water systems.

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In simple terms, it’s your playbook for keeping water systems safe and compliant.

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A good WMP includes:

  • A description of all water systems in the building (e.g., hot water tanks, cooling towers, showers, etc.)

  • A hazard analysis that identifies where Legionella might grow

  • Control measures to keep the water systems operating safely

  • Monitoring and testing procedures (including optional Legionella testing)

  • Corrective actions for when something goes wrong (like low disinfectant or a positive test)

  • Documentation, verification, and team training protocols

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Why Is a WMP Necessary?

There are five key reasons every building with complex water systems should have a Legionella WMP:

1. Health & Safety

Legionnaires’ disease is serious and potentially deadly—especially for older adults or people with weakened immune systems. A WMP helps protect building occupants by reducing the risk of exposure.

2. Regulatory Compliance

While not all jurisdictions require Legionella testing, ASHRAE Standard 188, CDC guidelines, and some local health departments recommend or mandate water management programs for certain facilities. Having a WMP helps you stay compliant and audit-ready.

3. Liability Protection

In the event of a Legionella outbreak, having a documented WMP can protect your organization from legal liability. It shows you took reasonable and proactive steps to manage the risk.

4. System Efficiency

Well-managed water systems not only reduce health risks—they also run more efficiently. Regular maintenance and monitoring can extend the life of your equipment and lower operating costs.

5. Peace of Mind

When you have a plan in place, your team knows exactly what to do—from routine maintenance to emergency response. That kind of clarity is invaluable in a crisis.

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Who Needs a Legionella Water Management Plan?

You should seriously consider a WMP if your building has:

  • Cooling towers or evaporative condensers

  • Domestic hot and cold water systems with long pipe runs

  • Showers or locker rooms

  • Ice machines or fountains

  • Water features (e.g., decorative fountains, hot tubs)

  • A vulnerable population (e.g., healthcare settings, senior living)​

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Final Thoughts

Legionella control isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about safeguarding the people who live, work, or visit your property. A Legionella Water Management Plan is a practical, proactive way to do just that.

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Want help getting started? We can provide a custom Water Management Plan (WMP) tailored to your building and systems, or even walk you through the process.

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Stay safe. Stay compliant. Start your plan today.

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