Which type of water system is unlikely to provide benefit from routine Legionella sampling?

Fire protection systems are designed primarily to deliver large volumes of water quickly in the event of a fire. These systems typically use water that is held in a tank or available through pressurized municipal water supply. While they may come into contact with Legionella bacteria under certain circumstances, fire protection systems are not intended for human use, and the water is rarely stagnant. Since Legionella thrives in large, stagnant bodies of water, the dynamics of a fire suppression system do not create an environment conducive to the growth and proliferation of this bacterium.

In contrast, cooling systems, irrigation systems, and heating systems can often have conditions that promote Legionella growth, such as stagnant water, a conducive temperature range, and environments where biofilms may develop. Regular sampling for Legionella in these systems is important as part of a comprehensive risk management strategy to ensure public health and safety.