Since August 2017, the 42nd BImSchV has been in force, regulating the hygienic operation of open evaporative cooling systems and being binding for all operators.
Based on the technical guideline , the preparation of a risk assessment from a hygienic perspective has also been included among the operator obligations as a mandatory document.
For newly constructed systems, the risk assessment should be prepared prior to initial commissioning; for existing systems, the required documentation should be created without delay. The preparation is to be carried out with the involvement of a person qualified in hygiene. A person is deemed hygienically qualified if they have successfully completed training in accordance with VDI 2047-2, including the final examination. However, such training primarily conveys basic information on the key aspects of regulation-compliant operation of recooling systems. Suitable content for preparing a hygienic risk assessment in accordance with the 42nd BImSchV is often only inadequately integrated. For this reason, additional continuing education programs are available that provide specialized knowledge for preparing the required documentation.
Above all, a trained eye for potential weak points within the cooling system should be a fundamental prerequisite for being able to make qualified statements about the condition of a cooling system. This primarily concerns design-related aspects that may contribute to uncontrolled growth of microbiological organisms—and thus potentially also of Legionella. For this reason, on-site inspection of the systems is indispensable. Another key focus is the documentation of operating practices. Related questions include, for example:
-
Does the system comply with the current state of the art?
-
Are suitable dosing agents being used?
-
How often is the system inspected by the operator?
-
Is maintenance carried out by a specialized company?
-
Where is the system located, and how is this location to be assessed?
Another component of the risk assessment is the definition of suitable sampling points. The requirements of the 42nd BImSchV and VDI 2047-2 must be taken into account in order to ensure meaningful and correct laboratory results through proper sampling at appropriate locations.
Multi Kühlsysteme has responded to the needs of system operators and can offer the complete preparation of the hygienic risk assessment in accordance with the 42nd BImSchV and VDI 2047-2. In addition to the required training under VDI 2047-2, our employees also hold additional qualifications for preparing hygienic risk assessments. As part of our comprehensive service portfolio for implementing the regulation—such as sampling by certified samplers with subsequent laboratory analysis, or the preparation of operating logbooks—we have already been able to support numerous operators of open evaporative cooling systems in creating the required documentation.
In this way, Multi Kühlsysteme continues to expand its comprehensive program for you. From planning, through manufacturing and commissioning of complete cooling systems, to annual maintenance and the implementation of the requirements of the 42nd BImSchV, Multi Kühlsysteme GmbH is your partner for all aspects.
