How do I detect Legionella using ETI's Legionnaires Thermometer Kit?

In this guide, we'll break down the contents of ETI's Legionnaires Kit and take you through how the kit can be used. It's available to purchase here.

The ETI Legionnaires Kit is a temperature monitoring kit for both standing water and pipe and tank surfaces in a water system. It's designed for the testing of legionella, which we will explore later in this guide. First of all, let's look at

Therma 1 thermometer
Immersion/Penetration probe
Ribbon surface probe
PTFE Wire probe
Water-resistant countdown timer
Anti-bacterial probe wipes
ABS carrying case

What is each item used for?

Therma 1 Thermometer

This is a digital thermometer for use in industrial applications and is suited for use with any ETI Type K thermocouple probes. With the capability of operating in temperatures ranging from -99.9 to 1372 °C with a 0.1 °C or 1 °C resolution. Therma 1 thermometers have a large easy to read, LCD display with low battery and open circuit 'Err' indication. Despite being powered by three 1.5v AAA batteries the unit has a minimum five year battery life. Additionally, the device will automatically power off after 10 minutes of no use, maximising battery life. On top of this, coupled with ETI's protective silicone boot this thermometer is dust and water resistant to IP64 rating, making it perfect for your legionnaires testing kit.

Penetration Probe

The stainless steel penetration probe is strong and versatile and best suited for the measurement of temperatures in various applications such as liquids and semi-solids. Temperature range of -75 to 250°C and can be paired with any ETI thermometer with a thermocouple socket. Reinforcing one of the many benefits of the Legionnaires Thermometer Kit by ETI.

Ribbon Surface Probe

Much like the penetration probe this ribbon surface probe operates in temperatures ranging from -75 to 250°C. However, this probe type uses flat ribbon technology, ensuring a fast and accurate response time. Its 130mm in length with a diameter of 15mm and has a response time of less than one second. Setting itself apart as the perfect probe for monitoring pipes.

PTFE Wire Probe

This probe by ETI has an incredibly fast response time of less than 0.5 seconds. This particular model is 1000mm but there are also longer versions available outwith the Legionnaires Kit. The PTFE wire probe can be used in fridges, freezers and ovens to measure air temperature. This is perfect for measuring areas that the other two probes cannot reach.

Anti-bacterial Probe Wipes

With a flip-top lid these are easily dispensed making them convenient and simple to use. These come in a pocket-size tub with 70 wipes, which measure 70 x 130mm. As they are effective against salmonella and listeria they are a great solution for cleaning your probes.

Water-resistant Countdown Timer

This multi-purpose countdown timer is capable of setting times of up to 99 hours, 99 minutes and 99 seconds. With an IP65 rating the device is water and dust resistant and has adjustable volume control. This allows the user to set the timer volume to a maximum of 95 decibels.

ABS Carrying Case

The carry case for the Legionnaires Kit prevents any accidental damage from occurring and keeps your kit clean and tidy. Additionally it allows your kit to be transported with ease.

What is legionnaires disease?

Legionnaires disease is caused by bacteria (legionella) and is caught by breathing in droplets of water that contain the bacteria. It's a form of pneumonia that spreads through water. Legionella bacteria grows best in warm water, particularly the kind found in hot tubs, cooling towers, hot water tanks, large plumbing systems or possibly air conditioning systems.

The growth of legionella comes from incorrect water temperatures such as between 20 to 45°C. In order to control legionella bacteria, cold water should be stored below 20°C with hot water above 60°C and distributed at above 50°. It is spread by breathing in mist or vapour that has been contaminated with Legionella bacteria, and it is not spread with human-to-human contact.

Why should I choose the Legionnaires Thermometer Kit it by ETI?

It's designed specifically for legionella testing and allows for many surface types to be measured. Moreover, all three probes serve different purposes, that will guarantee you have the essential equipment to carry out the type of testing required. The ribbon surface probe can measure the temperature of tanks and pipes. While the penetration probe can be used for the measurement of water to a minimum depth of 25m. Lastly, the wire probe is perfect for measuring areas where the other two are not suited. The kit also includes a traceable certificate of calibration, providing assurance your device is compliant.

Legal Responsibility?

The revised Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) issued by the Government's Health and Safety Exuctive (HSE) states: 'all employers and landlords, who manage premises with hot/cold water systems and/or wet cooling systems, have a legal responsibility to identify any risk of contamination and to prevent or control it'. ETI's Legionnaires Thermometer Kit is the perfect solution for anyone with a legal responsibility to monitor for legionella. It is available to purchase from Frontline Safety for next day delivery