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UNIT 4: ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
095
ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME FOR WATER
AND WASTE WATER
Water management in hospitality facilities includes:
• Maintaining water quality;
• Managing water storage and distribution works;
• Reducing water use;
• Reducing wastewater output;
• Purifying water for swimming-pools;
• Monitoring water consumption;
• Reusing treated wastewater;
• Maintaining water supply quality.
Most countries have water quality standards, and ensuring compliance with them
is important. The WHO and the EU have their own standards, which can be referred
to for additional guidance.
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The most common indicators of poor water quality are: suspended solids,
discolouring due to corrosion, rising pH levels, excessive hardness, high mineral
content and bacterial contamination, especially legionnella pneumophilia. Any
change in water quality should be brought to the attention of the water supply
company/authority. A quick review of the on-site water storage and distribution
works should then be conducted to find out if the source of the contamination is
on or off the property.
Managing Water Storage and Distribution Works
WATER STORAGE
• Ensure a frequent turnover of water to avoid the build-up of bacteria
such as legionnella pneumophilia;
• Storage tank openings should be covered and protected from dust,
pests, and other sources of contamination;
• Inlet and outlet valves should be placed to avoid the build-up of
stagnant water;
• Tanks should be cleaned every six months, and exterior and interior
scale build-up removed;
• Tanks should be regularly checked for leaks.
WATER DISTRIBUTION
• Ensure regular maintenance to avoid leaks, spills and back siphonage
between drinking and non-drinking supplies;
• Vacuum breakers and calibrated systems can be used to control flow,
reduce pressure and optimise cost savings;
• Maintain and upgrade insulation on hot water tanks and pipes.
Reducing Water Use
GOOD HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE OPTIONS FOR
REDUCING WATER USE
• Repair leaks and dripping pipes;
• Run washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded;