Complying With the Joint Commission’s New 2022 Water Management Standard
As of January 1, 2022, The Joint Commission’s new water management standard for healthcare facilities (EC.02.05.02, EPs 1 through 4) supersedes its previous version (EC.02.05.01, EP 14). The original addresses the requirement for healthcare organizations to minimize pathogenic biological agents within water systems. However, it did not clarify any specifics as to how to achieve this, giving building owners the ability to broadly interpret the standard themselves. The Joint Commission introduced and embraced this new standard in response to this issue and the importance for ongoing advancements in quality and safety within healthcare facilities.
Developing a Water Management Team (WMT)
As the first requirement (EC.02.05.02 EP1), it is imperative that a designated water quality management team is established within the healthcare facility. This team is responsible for the proper implementation and maintenance of all things water quality required.
WMT Requirements
The water management team is responsible for:
- Generating in-depth flow diagrams including the water system’s path, from point of entry and source, to processing steps like heaters, to all end-use points like faucets and showers.
- A risk management plan including “the evaluation of the physical and chemical conditions of each step of the water flow diagram to identify any areas where potentially hazardous conditions may occur.”
- A strategy to deal with the water in locations that remained inactive or stagnant
- Oversight procedures and permissible ranges for measurement of control.
- It is highly advised to have at minimum fundamental water monitoring practices. This includes the monitoring of water temperature, residual disinfectant, and pH. “Furthermore, protocols should outline the specific parameters measured, the locations of measurements, and the correct actions to be taken when parameters fall outside the acceptable range.”
Implementing Sampling, Monitoring, and Corrective Actions
The standard itself does not require testing for Legionella or other waterborne pathogens unless required by regulations. It does, however, state that testing should be left to the discretion of the WMT when evaluating control measures. As our professional advice, this is a crucial step to ensure standards are met. By completing a proper water quality test, it will give the WMT confidence that established protocols are executed correctly. If sampling or monitoring occur provide results outside permissable limits,, corrective actions must be taken and documented.
Water Quality Reviews
As a final to the EC.02.05.02, the person or team overseeing the water management program is required to conduct an annual review and whenever the following events take place:
- Modifications to the water system that introduce additional risks.
- Introduction of new equipment or water systems at risk of generating aerosols or serving as potential sources for Legionella. This includes the commissioning of a new wing or building.
Conclusion
Water quality standards ensure clean water supply. Following established guidelines and working with a company versed in water quality testing protects occupant safety and provides great value to a company.