Safe drinking water in healthcare spaces: NHS Technical Bulletin, No.2024/3

Sally Laurie |

Overview of the NHS Technical Bulletin (NETB) No.2024/3

The NHS Technical Bulletin (NETB) No. 2024/3, published on 27 August 2024, serves as a crucial guideline for healthcare facilities, focusing on the design and management of safe environment for patients, particularly those at high risk of infection from waterborne pathogens like nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and Legionella. Designing safe spaces for patients at high risk of infection is paramount, as the bulletin emphasises the need for stringent measures to prevent the growth and spread of these pathogens in healthcare settings, where immunocompromised patients are especially vulnerable, as well as staff and visitors. One such way is to provide safe drinking water in healthcare settings. The bulletin provides detailed recommendations on water safety, including the design of water systems, the materials used, and the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to mitigate the risk of infection.

Waterborne infection risks – E6 Chilled only for safe drinking water

In response to the growing concerns highlighted by the NHS Technical Bulletin, Borg & Overström has developed the E6 Chilled only integrated drinking water dispenser. This product is a direct solution to the challenges of managing waterborne bacteria in healthcare environments. With traditional water coolers being phased out of hospitals due to the difficulties in keeping them hygienically clean and free from dangerous pathogens like Legionella, there was a pressing need for a new solution that could ensure the safety of drinking water for patients, staff, and visitors.

E6 Chilled only – supporting safe drinking water in healthcare

The E6 Chilled only dispenser has been meticulously designed to prioritise hygiene and safety in every aspect of water delivery. It incorporates several innovative features that collectively reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

E6 Chilled only water dispenser in hospital for safe drinking water in healthcare

To provide good infection prevention, and minimise the risk of exposure to unsafe water, the E6 Chilled only incorporates the Borg & Overström Totality® 5-Step Methodology. The Totality® approach ensures pure, healthier water through a comprehensive process that includes advanced filtration, UV-C purification, and antimicrobial finishes.

The need to protect vulnerable and high-risk patients is key in hospitals as outlined by the NHS bulletin, with the board of each healthcare organisation responsible for ensuring all necessary measures are taken. With DryChill® rapid cooling technology, unlike traditional dispensers that may harbour standing water, the E6 Chilled only features a short, single water pathway that eliminates the risk of dead-legs, where bacteria can grow. The reservoir-free design ensures that water is cooled quickly and safely, minimising the risk of bacterial proliferation, creating clean and hygienic drinking water for patients.

With over 200 species of NTM (nontuberculous mycobacterium), and with 50% of them associated with causing infections, removing all hazards to patients and putting their safety first is critical. Viovandt® UV-C Purification is integrated within the E6 Chilled only system, Viovandt® technology uses ultraviolet LED light to sterilise incoming water, effectively controlling the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). This chemical-free purification method neutralises bio-contaminants like Legionella and Pseudomonas, ensuring the availability of safe drinking water in healthcare settings for patients, staff and guests alike.

Stagnant or low water flow leads to colonisation and growth by NTM and other waterborne pathogens in biofilms, however with the E6 Chilled only, the dispenser’s exterior is coated with Fynil®, a silver antimicrobial ion finish designed to withstand the demands of busy healthcare environments. This finish resists biofilm development, reducing the transfer of germs and providing confidence in communal areas.

Independent testing and results for safe drinking water

The E6 Chilled only dispenser has undergone rigorous independent testing in hospital environments, demonstrating its effectiveness in preventing waterborne pathogens.

Unlike standard drinking water dispensers, the E6 Chilled only showed no detectable levels of Legionella at the point of source, even in environments where approximately 50% of the incoming water supply was contaminated.

This highlights the dispenser’s superior infection control capabilities, providing a reliable source of safe drinking water in healthcare facilities.

Importance of hygiene installation and continuous maintenance

The NHS Technical Bulletin also underscores the importance of hygienic installation and ongoing maintenance to prevent the introduction of contaminants into water systems. The E6 Chilled only is installed using aseptic techniques, mirroring the strict standards applied in medical procedures to minimise infection risks. This careful approach ensures that the dispenser remains free from pathogens throughout its use.

Regular maintenance is equally critical, as it helps to identify and address potential issues before they lead to equipment failure or contamination. By adhering to hygienic installation and maintenance practices, healthcare facilities can ensure the long-term safety and functionality of their water dispensers, ultimately protecting public health and complying with regulatory standards.

Conclusion

The E6 Chilled only integrated drinking water dispenser by Borg & Overström is an effective solution that aligns with the stringent safety requirements outlined in the NHS Technical Bulletin. Its advanced features, including DryChill® technology, Viovandt® UV-C purification, and antimicrobial finishes, make it an ideal choice for healthcare environments where infection control is paramount. Through independent testing, the E6 Chilled Only has proven its effectiveness in delivering safe drinking water in healthcare, ensuring that patients, staff, and visitors can stay hydrated without compromising their health.

Link to NHS Bulletin

E6 Chilled only