Important advice on re-commissioning dormant machines after lockdown

The roadmap has been set out by the government, the 17^th May is rapidly approaching and the hospitality industry is finally working towards an imminent re-opening. Amongst the many considerations as we emerge into our post-Covid reality, is the re-commissioning of dormant laundry and dishwashing machines. It is absolutely essential that all of these machines are efficiently flushed through before use, to clean the system of stagnant water and bacteria and prevent Legionella occurring.

Prior to flushing the system through, no laundry items should be placed inside washing machines and it is important that users do not touch any part of the inner drum or the drum seal due to the risk of Legionnaires Disease posed by stagnant water.  The following steps should be taken before resuming any laundry operation after lockdown:

·       Turn back on the water supply

·       Check the drain hose is still securely in place

·       Place some bio washer powder in both the pre-wash and main wash compartments

·       If the machine is attached to an external auto-dosing system, turn it off for this process

·       Select and run a 95 degree wash programme

·       After the cycle has completed, wipe the door seal with a cloth

·       Drain and check the filter if it is a drain pump machine

·       Check around the machine to ensure that there are no leaks as seals and rubber fittings can harden during dormant periods

Users must not touch any part of the inner cabinet until it has been flushed through due to the risks posed by stagnant water. It is also important to ensure that no glassware, pans, crockery or cutlery is placed into the machine before taking the following steps:

·       Turn the water supply back on

·       Check that the drain hose is still securely in place

·       Place dishwasher powder in the dispenser

·       Select and start the hottest programme available

·       Once the wash cycle has finished, wipe down the door seals with a cloth

·       Check all of the filters

·       Check around the machine to ensure that there are no leaks as seals and rubber fittings can harden during dormant periods

As ever, Forbes Professional’s team are here to support all of our clients as they emerge from this latest lockdown. Should you have any questions regarding the re-commissioning of your laundry or dishwashing equipment do not hesitate to contact us and we will help you to get the machines up and running in time. We would like to wish you all the very best as you re-open your businesses.

For further information regarding controlling risks associated with legionella, we would also recommend that you visit the government’s HSE guidance:

Legionella risks during the coronavirus pandemic - HSE news