Legionella poses a serious health risk in poorly maintained water systems. As a leading cause of Legionnaires’ disease, this bacterium thrives in stagnant water, particularly between 20°C and 45°C. That’s why water tank relining is more than just a structural fix. It’s a critical step in improving hygiene, safety, and compliance.
At Echo Square, health and safety are central to everything we do. Whether it’s a small commercial tank or a complex industrial system, we carry out our relining projects with a strict focus on Legionella risk reduction from start to finish.
Legionella Risk Increases in Damaged Tanks
Did you know that if your tank is damaged, the risk of legionella being present in your tank is much higher? Cracks, corrosion, and flaking coatings inside water tanks don’t just reduce the lifespan of your system. These issues create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Any disruption to flow, poor insulation, or presence of biofilm can encourage Legionella growth.
Older lining materials can degrade over time, making it harder to maintain water quality. This is especially problematic in buildings with vulnerable occupants, such as hospitals, care homes, and schools.
How can Legionella affect us?
Legionnaire’s disease predominately affects people who have a suppressed immune system, smokers, and people over the age of 50. Legionnaires’ disease is form of pneumonia which can be fatal if contracted via an aerosol which is subsequently inhaled by the victim, often via showers, or misting systems.
How Tank Relining Helps Prevent Legionella
Relining a tank involves thoroughly cleaning, disinfecting, and re-coating the interior with a WRAS approved liner. Here’s how that process helps reduce risk:
- Eliminates breeding environments: New linings create a smooth, sealed surface that resists bacteria build-up and biofilm formation.
- Improves water flow: By restoring the structural integrity of the tank, we help reduce areas of stagnation where Legionella might thrive.
- Prepares tanks for safe chlorination: A clean, newly lined tank allows for more effective disinfection and water treatment routines.
Echo Square’s Solvent Free Coating
We have our own WRAS Approved, solvent free coating, in which we use for all water tank relining projects. Named ES 988 DWPU Coating, it is a high build solvent free polyurethane anticorrosive coating. It is designed for the efficient long-term protection of liquid retaining structures such as water tanks, pipelines, and associated equipment.
Our coating also meets the requirements of BS6920:1990 as required by the Water Research Centre.
Our coating comes in two components. The base grey component, and the main blue coating component.
Safety First Contractor
Every relining project we take on begins with a risk assessment. We look at the tank’s condition, usage, water temperature control, and access points. Our team is also experienced in working in high-risk environments, including healthcare and education, where shutdowns need to be carefully managed.
Once the work is complete, we provide full certification and documentation to support your compliance records and water hygiene audits.
Conclusion
Relining your water tank isn’t just about extending its life. It’s a key measure in reducing Legionella risk and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations. By sealing internal surfaces, improving flow, and enabling more effective disinfection, professional relining helps create a safer, more hygienic water system. If you’re unsure about the condition of your tank or need support with compliance, Echo Square is here to help with expert advice and WRAS approved solutions.