Microorganisms in water pipework

The American Society for Microbiology have issued an interesting report titled “Microbes in Pipes: The Microbiology of the Water Distribution System”.

According to ASM: “Most microbes in distribution systems probably do not pose health threats, but when they form biofilms, they can cause physical damage such as corroding pipes and blocking valves. In addition to forming biofilms, some non-pathogenic microorganisms can break down chemicals used to minimize microbial growth and others may release nutrients into the distribution system that support downstream growth of opportunistic pathogens. The extent to which these processes occur in water distribution systems is largely unknown, because these ecosystems have not been characterized.”

To read more, go to the ASM website.

Posted by Tim Sandle