Disinfections » Potable Water Tanks Hygienization
08 of September, 2010
Responsible:
Carlos Alves
carlosalves@ecofirma.pt

Cleaning and bacteriological disinfection of structures (water tanks and pipelines) in contact with drinking water.

 
IMPORTANCE OF DISINFECTION
BIOFILM 

Structures that are in direct and daily contact with water tend to form what is normally called a Biofilm. It is composed not only by inorganic components but also by living matter.

This biofilm can host contaminations that might appear in the water, providing them nutrients and protection. When present, the contamination can spread and become permanent. For this reason, the periodic removal of the biofilm through hygienization process is of great importance in order to ensure the maintenance of the water quality.

 
DISINFECTION PROCESS
SURFACE CLEANING 

a) All the surfaces to be cleaned are rinsed with a strong water jet at the system pressure (preferentially 5 bars), removing big sediments and sands, finishing with a final rinsing including the ceiling.

APPLICATION OF INCRUSTATION REMOVAL AND DISINFECTION PRODUCT 

b) Next, spray the walls and pillars, at a pressure of approximately 1 bar, with the degreasing and disinfection product adapted to the type of covering existing in the water tanks and other structures to treat.

BACTERICIDAL INDEX CONTROL 

c) During this operation, the bactericidal index on the surfaces in contact with the product should be controled by means of indicator strips.

FINAL RINSING OF THE SURFACES 

d) Approximately 20 minutes after the spraying of the incrustation removal/disinfection product, takes place the final rinsing of the surfaces, including ceilings, by means of abundant water.

RINSING WATER NEUTRALIZATION 

e) The water accumulated in the interior of the tank can only be released into the sewage system after verifying that their pH value is between 6 and 8. Otherwise, they should be neutralized with a proper product for that effect. However, in general, the mixture with the final rinsing promotes a sufficient neutralization for its release.


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