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WATER MANAGEMENT MONTH: Turn the tide in your favour by choosing the best suppliers

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
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Rising water costs coupled with an ever-increasing demand for this precious resource necessitate proactive water management strategies. But with a multitude of water management solutions providers vying for your attention, navigating the options can feel like searching for an oasis in a desert. Fear not! Here are some top tips to help you find the perfect partner to quench your organisation’s water usage and reduce your environmental footprint…

Understanding Your Water Consumption

  • Water Audit & Benchmarking: Conduct a comprehensive water audit to identify areas of high water consumption within your facilities. Benchmark your water usage against industry standards to assess your efficiency.
  • Identifying Leakages: Leaking pipes and inefficient fixtures can account for significant water wastage. Invest in leak detection technologies or implement regular visual inspections.
  • Water Usage Breakdown: Disaggregate your water consumption data to identify specific areas where water reduction strategies can be implemented. This could include washrooms, catering facilities, or irrigation systems.

Matching Provider Expertise

  • Industry Experience: Seek providers with a proven track record in your specific sector, whether it’s facilities management, hospitality, or manufacturing. They’ll understand the unique water challenges you face.
  • Solution Portfolio Review: Ask for a portfolio showcasing the provider’s water management solutions. Look for a range of options like rainwater harvesting systems, water-efficient fixtures, or real-time monitoring technology.
  • Sustainability Credentials: Prioritise providers who are committed to sustainable practices and offer solutions that align with your organisation’s environmental sustainability goals.

Functionality and Cost-Effectiveness

  • Return on Investment (ROI): Evaluate the ROI of proposed solutions. Consider upfront costs, potential water savings, and long-term operational savings. Choose solutions that offer a clear pathway to cost reduction.
  • Scalability & Future Planning: Select solutions that can adapt to your organisation’s future needs. Consider potential growth or changes in occupancy that might impact water consumption.
  • Integration Considerations: Water management solutions should ideally integrate with existing building management systems (BMS) for centralized data monitoring and improved operational efficiency.

Collaboration and Partnerships

  • Clear Communication: Choose a provider who actively listens to your needs and works collaboratively throughout the planning and implementation stages. Open communication fosters a successful partnership.
  • Staff Training and Engagement: Enquire about the provider’s approach to staff training and engagement.Empowering staff with water-saving practices is crucial for a sustainable water management strategy.
  • Ongoing Support & Maintenance: Ensure the provider offers reliable technical support and maintenance services to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the implemented solutions.

Beyond the Meter: A Holistic Approach

Leading water management solutions providers go beyond simply installing technology. Look for partners who offer a comprehensive approach:

  • Data Analytics & Insights: Real-time data analysis of water usage patterns allows for targeted interventions and continuous improvement strategies.
  • Behavioural Change Programs: Engaging staff through awareness campaigns and water-saving incentives promotes a culture of water conservation within your organisation.
  • Regulatory Compliance Support: Providers can help navigate complex water regulations and ensure your organisation remains compliant.

Investing in a Sustainable Future

By following these top tips and fostering a collaborative partnership with a water management solutions provider, you can significantly reduce your organisation’s water footprint, lower costs, and demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability. Remember, water is a precious resource, and its responsible management is not just an environmental responsibility, it’s a smart business decision. So, take action, source the best partner for your needs, and turn the tide towards a more water-efficient future for your organisation.

Are you searching for Water Management Services for your organisation? The Energy Management Summit can help!

Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash

If you specialise in commercial Energy Storage solutions we want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Energy Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the market – and in June we’ll be focussing on Energy Storage.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help energy management buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Energy Storage solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Danielle James on 01992 374085 / d.james@forumevents.co.uk. 

Our features list in full:

Jun 24 – Energy Storage
Jul 24 – Data Collection & Management
Aug 24 – Waste Management
Sept 24 – Solar PV
Oct 24 – Lighting
Nov 24 – Heating & Ventilation
Dec 24 – Onsite Renewables
Jan 25 – Energy Management Systems
Feb 25 – Renewable Energy
Mar 25 – Carbon Management
Apr 25 – Metering & Monitoring
May 24 – Water Management/Strategy

WATER MANAGEMENT MONTH: How we’re delivering efficiency across sectors

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

For energy management professionals, water conservation is no longer an afterthought. Specialist water management solutions are emerging as powerful tools to reduce water consumption, lower energy costs, and promote sustainability. These solutions offer significant benefits across both private and public sectors. Let’s explore how energy management professionals can deploy and leverage water management solutions to achieve optimal results…

Private Sector Applications

  • Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities: Water-efficient equipment installation, combined with real-time monitoring systems, can identify leaks and inefficiencies in water usage within production processes. Smart irrigation systems can optimise water usage in landscaping around industrial facilities.
  • Hospitality and Retail Businesses: Hotels can implement water-saving showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce water consumption in guest rooms. Smart laundry systems and dishwashers that adjust water usage based on load size can further contribute to conservation efforts. Retail stores can leverage water-efficient restroom fixtures and leak detection systems to minimise water waste.
  • Commercial Buildings: Occupancy sensors can be used to automate toilet flushing systems and adjust water flow based on building usage. Greywater recycling systems can capture wastewater from showers and sinks to be reused for non-potable purposes like toilet flushing or irrigation.

Public Sector Applications

  • Municipal Water Authorities: Advanced leak detection technologies, including acoustic sensors and satellite imagery, can pinpoint even small leaks in underground pipes, minimising water loss and infrastructure damage. Public awareness campaigns and water-saving incentives for residents can further promote responsible water usage.
  • Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Water-efficient fixtures and appliances are crucial in healthcare settings. Automated sterilisation equipment that uses minimal water can be implemented, and rainwater harvesting systems can provide a sustainable source of water for landscaping or non-potable needs.
  • Schools and Educational Institutions: Water-saving toilets, faucets, and showerheads can be installed in school buildings. Educational programs can promote water conservation amongst students, fostering a culture of sustainability from a young age.

The Power of Data and Analytics

Specialist water management solutions often include data analysis tools that empower energy managers:

  • Identifying Water Usage Patterns: Monitor water consumption across different areas of a facility to pinpoint areas for improvement and target conservation efforts.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Real-time data can be used to predict equipment failure and schedule maintenance before leaks or malfunctions occur, minimising water waste and downtime.
  • Benchmarking and Performance Tracking: Track water usage trends over time and compare performance against industry benchmarks to identify areas for continuous improvement.

The Future of Water Management

The future of water management promises innovative solutions and a continued focus on sustainability:

  • Integration with Building Management Systems (BMS): Water management solutions will integrate seamlessly with BMS, allowing for centralised control and optimisation of water usage alongside other building systems like heating and ventilation.
  • The Rise of Smart Water Meters: Advanced smart water meters will provide real-time data on water consumption down to individual fixtures, empowering more granular control over water usage.
  • Focus on Water Reuse and Recycling: Technological advancements will make water reuse and recycling more cost-effective, further reducing reliance on freshwater resources.

A Sustainable Future for Water

Specialist water management solutions are a valuable tool for energy management professionals in both private and public sectors. By leveraging these solutions, energy professionals can achieve significant water savings, lower energy costs, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Data analysis, coupled with innovative technologies, empowers them to make informed decisions and optimise water usage across various facilities. Remember, water is a precious resource, and responsible management is essential. Specialist water management solutions offer a roadmap towards a future where water is used efficiently and sustainably.

Are you searching for Water Management Services for your organisation? The Energy Management Summit can help!

Photo by Alex Perez on Unsplash

WATER MANAGEMENT MONTH: Beyond the Dripping Tap: How modern solutions are saving businesses money and the planet

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

For Energy Management professionals, the quest for greater efficiency extends beyond just kilowatt-hours. Water usage, a hidden source of energy consumption, is increasingly under the spotlight. Here’s where commercial water management solutions come in, helping businesses not only save money on water bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability, based on inout from attendees at the Energy Management Summit…

The Efficiency Equation:

Commercial water management solutions encompass a range of strategies and technologies to monitor, manage, and ultimately reduce water consumption. Here’s how they contribute to overall efficiency:

  • Leak Detection and Repair: Even small leaks can lead to significant water waste and wasted energy needed for heating or pumping water. Smart water meters and leak detection technologies can pinpoint leaks quickly, allowing for prompt repairs and substantial cost savings.
  • Water-Efficient Fixtures and Appliances: Modern toilets, showerheads, taps, and even dishwashers use significantly less water compared to older models. Retrofitting facilities with water-efficient appliances or implementing water-saving features can reduce water demand dramatically.
  • Process Water Optimisation: Many businesses use large volumes of water in industrial processes. Water management solutions analyse water usage patterns and identify areas for optimisation. This could involve implementing closed-loop systems, reusing treated wastewater, or using rainwater harvesting systems.
  • Behavioural Change Programs: Raising employee awareness about water conservation is crucial. Engaging campaigns and educational initiatives can encourage responsible water use behaviours throughout the workplace.

The Benefits Beyond Cost Savings:

The impact of commercial water management solutions extends beyond reduced water bills:

  • Reduced Energy Consumption: Heating water accounts for a significant portion of a building’s energy consumption. By reducing water usage, businesses also decrease the energy needed to heat it.
  • Improved Environmental Sustainability: With water scarcity becoming a global concern, minimising water consumption is crucial for businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint and enhance their sustainability credentials.
  • Regulatory Compliance: The UK government is implementing stricter regulations on water usage. Water management solutions help businesses stay compliant and avoid potential fines.

The Future of Water Management in the UK:

The world of commercial water management in the UK is evolving rapidly, with exciting advancements shaping the future:

  • Smart Metering and Data Analytics: Real-time water usage data and predictive analytics will provide deeper insights into water consumption patterns, allowing for more targeted water-saving strategies.
  • Internet of Things (IoT) Integration: Sensors and smart devices integrated with building management systems will offer remote monitoring and automated water-saving measures.
  • Water Recycling and Reuse: Greywater recycling systems and advanced water treatment technologies will lead to greater water reuse within commercial buildings.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI can analyse water usage data and suggest optimised strategies for water conservation, paving the way for more efficient and automated water management systems.

Commercial water management solutions are an essential tool for Energy Management professionals. By reducing water consumption, businesses not only save money and contribute to sustainability goals but also demonstrate a commitment to responsible resource use. With a focus on cutting-edge technologies and data-driven approaches, the future of water management promises a future of efficient and environmentally conscious operations. Remember, every drop saved is a step towards a more sustainable future.

Are you searching for Water Management Services for your organisation? The Energy Management Summit can help!

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

If you specialise in commercial Water Management solutions we want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Energy Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the market – and in May we’ll be focussing on Water Management.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help energy management buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Water Management solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Danielle James on 01992 374085 / d.james@forumevents.co.uk. 

Our features list in full:

May 24 – Water Management/Strategy
Jun 24 – Energy Storage
Jul 24 – Data Collection & Management
Aug 24 – Waste Management
Sept 24 – Solar PV
Oct 24 – Lighting
Nov 24 – Heating & Ventilation
Dec 24 – Onsite Renewables
Jan 25 – Energy Management Systems
Feb 25 – Renewable Energy
Mar 25 – Carbon Management
Apr 25 – Metering & Monitoring

Do you specialise in Water Management? We want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Energy Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the market – and in May we’ll be focussing on Water Management.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help energy management buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Water Management solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Mark Davis on 01992 374064 / m.davis@forumevents.co.uk. 

Our features list in full:

May – Water Management/Strategy
Jun – Energy Storage
Jul – Data Collection & Management
Aug – Waste Management
Sept – Solar PV
Oct – Lighting
Nov – Heating & Ventilation
Dec – Onsite Renewables
Jan 24 – Energy Management Systems
Feb 24 – Renewable Energy
Mar 24 – Carbon Management
Apr – Metering & Monitoring

Preventing legionella with IoT, automation and digital processes

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Organisations across the UK are being held accountable by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to prevent the growth of legionella and other known pathogens in fresh water systems. Healthcare and hospitality are especially under pressure here. But, to achieve and demonstrate successful prevention, many organisations need to allocate a substantial amount of time, effort and expense.  

Automation, digitisation, the internet of things and cloud applications can help drive effective change in this space; to improve health and safety, and to help support the existing control and prevention methods that organisations have adopted. Chris Potts, Marketing Director, ANT Telecom explains…   

The risk of legionella

Legionella bacteria is found naturally in freshwater environments and can become a health risk in man-made water systems when it is allowed to grow and spread, increasing the risk of Legionnaires’ disease. This generally takes place when water remains stagnant and at certain optimal temperatures that propagate legionella growth. The NHS describes the disease as a lung infection caused by inhaling droplets of water containing the legionella bacteria, and is likened to a severe pneumonia by some.

When people become infected, it’s usually from an array of scenarios. These include purpose built systems where water is maintained at a high temperature, through equipment like a cooling tower; hot and cold water systems used; air conditioning systems; humidifiers; spa pools and hot tubs.

These types of systems are installed across many industries; like healthcare, care homes and hospitality, all of which have to demonstrate good processes are in place to prevent legionella growth within their water systems. Especially since they are accountable for protecting large numbers of people who access their services.

Employers are responsible for mitigating risk

To mitigate risk, employers are responsible for implementing the necessary checks and measures to prevent legionella growth. Not doing so could result in a significant fine or prison sentence under either the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, or the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, should an incident occur.

The lengths that an employer needs to go to, to mitigate risk, totally depends on the water system they have in situ: how it is used and what potential risk users can be exposed to? This naturally varies from business to business, so the first step is to undertake is a risk assessment, as this will not only detail what the potential risks are, but outline the ongoing measures that must be implemented to manage and control them. In some industries, like in healthcare, the amount of resource required to prevent legionella growth is quite staggering.

The resource problem: unproductive and inaccurate manual checks, and paper-based recording

When practically managing this problem, many hospitals or hotels often use an employee to manually check the temperature of key parts of their water systems on a weekly basis, and to flush water systems appropriately. This can include checking many pipes, water tanks and buffer vessels – what is more, some outlets may require water flushing twice per week, depending on the requirement, and additional weekly temperature checks too. All of this work also needs to be recorded accurately and time stamped to show that it has been executed correctly, and according to HSE requirements.

This recording and reporting normally takes place via a paper-based system, which is not ideal or efficient in today’s digital era. As you can imagine, manually checking and flushing each tap or outlet demands a lot of resource and is labour intensive too. To make this problem more troublesome, many cold water storage tanks, and the related buffer vessels that need checking, are often located in places that are not always easy to access, making it difficult to record water temperature, and the status of these parts, quickly and easily.

While a manual approach makes sense, and is quick and easy, for one or two taps, what happens when this task load increases to around 2000 plus taps, for example within a hospital? The time it takes to check, run the water, record the information, and draft the supporting reporting skyrockets and can create enough work for 3-5 full time personnel depending on the complexity of the water system. This time spent gets worse when it spans 300 sites in the case of a large hotel chain, for example, that has outlets as well as other water systems, like spas, to monitor and control. This approach is not productive, and paper-based recording is likely to deliver inaccurate measurements and data to management teams.

Another factor to consider is that in some cases flushing water systems can actually compete against sustainability agendas, even if advised by the HSE. There must be a be a more effective way, that does not require high demands on human resourcing, during a time when the NHS and hospitality sectors are facing talent shortages. Surely employee time would be better spent looking after patients and guests – or in deploying them within other areas of the organisation where value could be added?

Succeeding with IoT & automation

This is where digitisation and automated monitoring solutions, with wireless IoT sensors, are enabling hospitals, hotels and other organisations to improve processes, as they strive to meet HSE requirements.

When installed, these highly sensitive sensors can record when taps and showers have been used through normal daily use – for example, measuring the temperature of pipes to ensure legionella does not grow, or checking when water has been run. Information tracked is automatically uploaded to a secure online portal. Teams can access this data from a web browser on a PC, laptop or smartphone.

Management can then refer to this data and gain a true view of the water temperature / usage across all of their water outlets and storage tanks in real-time, centrally.  Reporting can be easily produced and show which taps have or haven’t been used through normal daily use, thereby minimising the amount of work that needs to be done manually (e.g. flushing taps, recording temperatures).

This modern approach also significantly reduces the traditionally high amount of administration, paperwork and reporting required, as it can be done automatically. Another key benefit for organisations and management teams is that all the data recorded is 100% accurate and reliable.  Which isn’t always the case when done manually. Taps also don’t need to be run for more than the required five minutes, on such a large scale, as would have previously been required. This helps organisations save water, energy and contribute to a more environmentally friendly process.

Conclusion

The traditional manual, paper-based systems that were used to support legionella risk assessments had their place and time. IoT, automation and the digitisation of processes is enabling organisations to achieve accurate health and safety gains that were previously unachievable only a few years ago. By trialling newer automated monitoring solutions, that make use of IoT, legionella prevention can be more effectively managed, protecting both people and driving productivity gains more steadily too.

Do you specialise in Water Management? We want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Energy Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the market – and in May we’ll be focussing on Water Management.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help energy management buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Water Management solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Lisa Rose on 01992 374077 / l.rose@forumevents.co.uk.

Our features list in full:

May – Water Management/Strategy
Jun – Energy Storage
Jul – Data Collection & Management
Aug – Waste Management
Sept – Solar PV
Oct – Lighting
Nov – Heating & Ventilation
Dec – Onsite Renewables

Need Accurate Sustainability Reporting? Make sure you have quality data first!

 960 640 Guest Post
By:

By Bill Identity

Sustainability reporting should be a quick and easy way to understand how your business performs against best sustainability practices relating to energy, water and waste, and employee programs. Get ahead of the curve and download your free guide from Bill Identity today.

Click to Download Free Guide

Do you Specialise in Water Management & Strategy? We want to hear from you!

 960 640 Stuart O'Brien
By:

Each month on Energy Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the market – and in May we’ll be focussing on Water Management/Strategy.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help energy management buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Water Management/Strategy solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Lisa Rose on 01992 374077 / l.rose@forumevents.co.uk.

Our features list in full:

May – Water Management/Strategy
Jun – Energy Storage
Jul – Data Collection & Management
Aug- Waste Management
Sep – Solar PV
Oct – Lighting
Nov – Heating & Ventilation
Dec – Onsite Renewables

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