"There's no doubt that heavy metal waste streams come with a significant amount of occupational risks."

In this powerful episode of Scaling UP! H2O, Trace Blackmore engages with Chandler Mancuso from MacDermid Envio Solutions to share insights on this vital topic of segregating wastewater streams in heavy metals removal applications. Chandler shares his extensive expertise on the often-overlooked aspects of wastewater management, providing valuable insights into safety, strategic planning, and the power of experimentation.

Why is Segregating Wastewater Streams Crucial?

Wastewater management is more than just treating what goes down the drain. It's about understanding where your wastewater comes from and managing it effectively from the start. Chandler explains that his motivation for focusing on this area stems from two key factors: safety and technical insight. Heavy metal waste streams can pose significant risks, making safe handling and treatment a top priority. Chandler emphasizes the need for water professionals to fully understand the sources and composition of wastewater streams before diving into treatment processes. This strategic approach not only enhances safety but also leads to more efficient and effective solutions.

For Those New to the Industry: What is a Wastewater Stream?

A wastewater stream encompasses all the different sources of wastewater generated during various industrial processes before they reach the treatment stage. Chandler shifts the conversation from the treatment process itself to the strategy of managing these diverse streams upstream. By focusing on this early stage, water professionals can address challenges before they escalate, ensuring more efficient and effective treatment outcomes.

Understanding the Role of Heavy Metals in Wastewater

Heavy metal waste streams, which often originate from industries such as electroplating, metal finishing, and mining, can contain hazardous metals like zinc, nickel, copper, and chrome, along with other dangerous constituents like cyanide and fluoride. Properly categorizing and treating these complex streams is crucial for maintaining safety and effectiveness in wastewater treatment.

How to Ensure Health and Safety of People and Equipment

Safety is paramount when dealing with heavy metal waste streams. Chandler advises segregating incompatible waste streams to prevent dangerous reactions, such as the formation of hydrogen cyanide when cyanide-containing streams are mixed with acidic streams. By avoiding these hazardous combinations, water professionals can significantly reduce safety risks and protect both people and equipment.

Real-World Examples and Common Pitfalls

Chandler shares real-world scenarios, such as the critical need to keep cyanide-containing waste streams away from acidic conditions to prevent the formation of toxic hydrogen cyanide. Despite being well-known, these safety measures are sometimes overlooked, highlighting the importance of vigilance and thorough system design in wastewater management.

Best Practices for Wastewater Management

Never take safety for granted. Chandler encourages listeners to continuously question the conditions they are working with and to always prioritize health and safety. By remaining aware of potential hazards and continuously optimizing processes, water treaters can ensure safe and effective wastewater management.

Enhancing Efficiency and Effectiveness Through Stream Segregation

Segregation of wastewater streams is key to optimizing treatment processes. Chandler discusses how his team at MacDermid Envio Solutions has developed specific protocols for managing challenging waste streams separately, improving operational efficiency and optimizing chemical usage. This not only leads to cost savings but also enhances overall treatment effectiveness.

Experimentation: The Key to Success

Chandler highlights the importance of creative problem solving in wastewater treatment. A thorough understanding of waste streams, combined with a well-designed experimental approach, can reveal unique solutions that improve treatment outcomes. By being creative and flexible during jar testing, water professionals can uncover innovative strategies that provide significant benefits to their customers.

From Jar Testing to Real-Life Application

Translating jar testing results into real-world applications can be challenging, but it is essential for achieving practical, effective solutions. Chandler emphasizes the need for accuracy and adaptability in testing protocols to ensure a smooth transition from the lab to the field.

Timestamps 01:00 - Thank you for giving us the AWT Innovation Award for the work we do at the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast we are humbled and honored 08:20 - Catching up with returning guest Chandler Mancuso of MacDermid Envio Solutions 16:18 - The Importance of Segregating Wastewater Streams in Heavy Metals Removal Applications 50:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 51:30 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 

Connect with Chandler Mancuso Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.macdermidenvio.com/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chandler-mancuso/ www.linkedin.com/company/macdermid-envio-solutions Read or Download Chandler Mancuso’s Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned Episode 064 Episode 218 Episode 269 Episode 275  Mike Rowe the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge WEF - Water Environment Federation AWWA - American Water Works Association AWT - Association of Water Technologies WEFTEC - Water Environment Federation's Technical Exhibition and Conference The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea

Books Mentioned Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir by Matthew Perry Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey How Champions Think: In Sports and in Life by Dr. Bob Rotella

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, we’re thinking about an elution study. Have you ever performed one? Do you know what one is or when you would perform one? Do you have a salometer in your test kit? Have you ever just watched a water softener go through all its regeneration steps to see what happens? How do you know the brine draw step is exposing the resin bed to the correct strength of brine solution? How often should you test the brine strength during the brine draw in an elution study? Every 5 minutes, 3 minutes, or 1 minute? What if you graph your brine strength results and the curve looks different than expected? What can the shape of the elution study curve tell you about what may be wrong? An elution study isn’t usually hard to do. Coupled with observing and measuring the entire regeneration cycle and testing the makeup water for any changes, it can be a great troubleshooting tool to keep a water softener running smoothly

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE

Meet the Women Behind the WOW Committee This episode features insights from six trailblazing women who are not only leaders in their respective fields but also passionate advocates for the WOW mission:

• Stephanie Choury, Enterprise Account Manager at Buckman Digital Water
• Tammy Faber Sales Director of HOH Water Technology and Co-Chair of WOW (Women of Water)
• Paule Genest, Director of Sales and ESG, Water and Energy at TGWT Clean Technologies, Host of the Paule-Cast and Co-Chair of WOW (Women of Water)
• Michelle Lunn, Marketing Director of GLA Water Consultants & Director on the AWT Board
• Janice Shawl, President of AMSA, Inc. a specialty chemical manufacturing company
• Pam Simmons, National OEM Sales Manager, Watson Marlow

What is Women of Water? WOW exists to welcome, highlight, and celebrate the contributions of women in AWT. Paule Genest articulates the mission clearly: “To encourage all the women working and thriving within the industry of water technologies to come forward and contribute their time and talents to the greater good.” WOW focuses on creating a thriving community where women can belong, elevate, and positively impact AWT.

Mission of the WOW Committee The mission of the WOW Committee is clear: to promote the professional development and advancement of women in the water treatment industry. By providing education, networking opportunities, and a strong support system, the committee aims to foster a diverse and inclusive environment where all members can succeed. This mission not only benefits women but also strengthens the industry as a whole by encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative approaches.

Facing Challenges Head-On In every industry, women encounter unique challenges, and the water treatment sector is no exception. Pam Simmons, a dedicated member of the Women of Water (WOW) committee, sheds light on the obstacles women face and how the committee is striving to address them.

Pam begins by acknowledging a reality that many women are all too familiar with the gender pay gap. According to the International Labor Organization, women globally earn about 20% less than men. This disparity is not just a number; it’s a barrier that women must navigate throughout their careers. But the pay gap is only one piece of a much larger puzzle.

There is also the issue of unequal opportunities, particularly in leadership. A 2022 report from Deloitte on women in the boardroom highlights that only 19% of boardroom positions are held by women. This underrepresentation speaks volumes about the challenges women face in advancing to leadership roles. For many women, the journey to the top is not just about breaking the glass ceiling; it’s about finding the ladder to reach it in the first place.

Career gaps present another significant hurdle. Whether its time taken off to have a baby or care for a family member, these interruptions can create substantial obstacles when women return to the workforce. Pam points out that these gaps can make it difficult for women to regain their footing and continue progressing in their careers. The struggle doesn’t stop there. Navigating work-life balance is another challenge that resonates with everyone, regardless of gender, but it affects women in distinct ways. Pam reflects on how this delicate balance—or lack thereof—can leave a lasting impact on both personal and professional lives. 

The WOW committee is not just identifying these challenges—they are actively working to address them. Pam shares that WOW is committed to introducing resources and strategies to help women cope with these challenges. Through support, education, and community, WOW aims to empower women in the water treatment industry to not just survive but thrive.

How is WOW Helping Women in the Water Industry? The WOW Committee is already making a significant impact. There are now three women on AWT’s Board of Directors, the most ever in the organization’s history. Stephanie Choury has seen firsthand how the inclusion of women has led to greater collaboration and innovation within the industry. She notes that the women on the Board feel they have a “seat at the table” and are making meaningful contributions alongside their male colleagues. WOW is also instrumental in providing mentorship and creating spaces for women to grow their knowledge, skills, and leadership roles.

The Power of Mentorship Mentorship is central to the Women of Water (WOW) committee’s mission, acting as a crucial tool for professional growth and community building. As the industry evolves, mentorship plays a key role in creating pathways for women in water treatment.

Tammy Faber emphasizes the importance of mentorship, referencing Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg.  Sandberg highlights that a mentor or sponsor can significantly boost career progression, yet women often lack such support. WOW addresses this gap by connecting seasoned professionals with newcomers. Tammy explains, “It’s not just about an older professional helping a younger one; it’s about leaning in and helping one another grow.”

WOW has prioritized mentorship this year, especially with young professionals. Both mentors and mentees experience mutual growth, as Tammy shares: “The mentor-mentee relationship is so important because I can walk in a room and already know five people that maybe I only saw at technical training in March, but yet we've connected through text and email along the way. It feels like family and a safe place.”

This focus on mentorship fosters a sense of belonging and a supportive network. Tammy notes, “We’re a group that wants one another to succeed, and that’s the power of mentor and mentee relationships.” These connections offer members a trusted group for advice and support, reinforcing that within WOW, no one stands alone.

Empowering Connections: Key Takeaways from WOW’s Leadership As we wrap up this insightful episode with the Women of Water (WOW) committee, our guests share powerful messages about empowerment, mentorship, and community.

Michelle Lunn’s closing thoughts are a beacon of encouragement: whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned professional, reaching out and connecting is crucial. Her message is clear—every woman in the industry belongs and has the potential to achieve great things. So, at the next convention or industry event, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself and make connections. You have the power to excel and belong.

Pam Simmons adds a call for self-awareness and openness to addressing subconscious biases in our interactions. She encourages all professionals to be mindful of how these biases might influence relationships and conversations. This self-reflection is essential for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Tammy Faber challenges seasoned professionals to reach out to those who may seem hesitant or reserved. By engaging with someone who might be standing on the sidelines, you can make a significant impact. Invite them for a coffee, introduce yourself, and help them feel welcome. This simple act of kindness can make a world of difference to someone new in the room.

Janice Shawl reminds us that women are a vibrant and integral part of the water treatment industry. Her message celebrates the contributions of women and underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing their presence in the field.

Stephanie Choury underscores the immense value of mentorship. Whether at an industry event or in everyday interactions, extending a helping hand to others can be incredibly rewarding. She emphasizes that mentorship is a two-way street and encourages everyone to be both mentors and mentees. By fostering these relationships, we can all contribute to a supportive and thriving professional community.

Paule Genest reinforces the core message of WOW: we belong, we elevate, and we are WOW. She urges everyone to help others recognize their worth and potential, creating a positive impact both within and beyond the industry.

As we look at the current statistics—only 10% of surveyed AWT members are women, and a similar percentage represents women in industrial water treatment nationally—there is a clear need for continued effort. In 2024, 40% of our Scaling UP! H2O podcast guests have been women, reflecting progress and the importance of representation. Our challenge to you, Scaling UP! Nation is to connect with the remarkable women you heard from in this episode. 

Together, we can empower women in the best industry in the world to make a lasting impact on the water treatment industry and build a thriving, inclusive community.

Timestamps 02:00 - Trace Blackmore hope to see you at AWT next week 04:25 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 19:20 - Interview with AWT’s Women of Water (WOW): Stephanie Choury, Tammy Faber, Paule Genest, Michelle Lunn, Janice Shawl and Pam Simmons 01:06:45 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Links Mentioned AWT’s Women of Water - Webpage AWT’s Women of Water (WOW) - Facebook AWT’s Women of Water (WOW) - Group in Linked InThe Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Read or Download Press Release HERE Episodes Mentioned Ep 096 The One That Helps Introverts Ep 202 The One Where We Learn the Best Ways to Network in a Virtual World Ep 117 The One with Temperament Expert, Kathleen Edelman Ep 179 Another One that Teaches Us to Communicate Better with Others Ep 281 The One About the Power of Kindness Ep 060 The One About Public Speaking Ep 363 Pricing Boost: Get Paid Well for Your Excellence Ep 192 The One with the Best Marketing Expert in the Water Treatment Industry Ep 191 The One Where We Learn About Tannin Ep 100 The 100th One Ep 252 The One About the Operations Manager Turned Sales Manager

Connect with Executive Producer Corrine Drury For any Media Inquiries or Show Ideas please reach out Email: [email protected] Website: www.ScalingUpH2o.com and www.RisingTideMastermind.team LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/corrinedrury and linkedin.com/in/traceblackmore

Books Mentioned I Said This, You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg Worthy by Jamie Kern Lima Dare to Lead by Brené Brown How to Work with (Almost) Anyone by Michael Bungay Stanier The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, I have a challenge for you.  The challenge is…clean and organize your OWN test kit and test equipment.  Previously, I’ve challenged you to clean your customers testing area, but today we’re turning the tables.  Clean your own.  Your test kit should not look like Moses used it to test the waters just before he parted the Red Sea.  While it does not have to look pristine and new either, it should instill confidence in those that see it that the results obtained are trustworthy and reliable.  Old reagent bottles with the labels worn off, broken equipment, and a jumbled mess of bottles does not instill confidence.  Your test kit and equipment are extensions of you and are critical to doing your job.  They reflect upon you and your quality of output and recommendations.  Show them a little tender loving care.  In the end, it will make your job easier and leave a better impression upon those around you.

Welcome back, Scaling UP! Nation. Have you ever wondered about the hidden dangers of biofilm lurking in your water systems? In our latest Legionella Awareness Month episode, we deep dive into the world of biofilm and its critical link to Legionella with our returning expert, Loraine Huchler, President of MarTech Systems. Packed with invaluable insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the water treatment industry. Don’t miss it!

Ever Wondered How Biofilm and Legionella are Connected?

"If you have no biofilm, your risk of Legionella is very low." - Loraine Huchler Loraine Huchler provides an insightful explanation of the complex relationship between biofilm and Legionella interacting within cooling water systems.

Life Cycle of Legionella: "Legionella is an aerobic bacteria, while the bacteria inside the biofilm might be anaerobic—they don't need oxygen to thrive. Some can even switch between oxygen-loving and anaerobic states. Legionella matures and seeks a higher life form to reproduce, essentially acting as a parasite within the biofilm."

Reproduction and Spread: "In cooling water systems, especially comfort cooling systems that operate seasonally, Legionella can reproduce within the biofilm even when systems are idle. The biofilm's thickness increases due to the abundance of bacteria. When the system restarts, the force of the water shears off the top layer of the biofilm, dispersing bacteria throughout the entire chiller system."

Challenges in Bacteria Control: Loraine emphasizes, "This scenario illustrates why it's so difficult to control bacteria in cooling water systems. The constant cycle of biofilm formation and disruption means bacteria, including Legionella, are continuously spread and difficult to manage."

Implications for Industrial Water Professionals: Understanding this complex relationship is crucial for implementing effective water treatment strategies. Regular monitoring and proactive management of biofilm are essential to mitigate the risks associated with Legionella and maintain system efficiency. How Do You Measure the Amount of Biofilm, and How Does This Measuring Technology Work? "Adding a biofilm sensor will give real-time early detection of biofilm and make precision dosing a reality for biocides which can kill Legionella." - Loraine Huchler

Exploring Biofilm Measurement Technologies: Loraine Huchler delves into the intricacies of measuring biofilm, highlighting two key technologies: Electrochemical and Ultrasonic.

Ultrasonic Technology: "The ultrasonic technology is novel and proprietary. Currently, only one water treatment company has developed it, and access to this online sensor is limited to their customers. This technology is the only sensor that measures biofilm in an online system. It includes a test chamber with a heated surface and a precisely controlled water flow that matches your most vulnerable heat exchanger. Using ultrasonic technology, it determines the biofilm thickness."

Applications and Considerations: Loraine poses an intriguing question: "If you know the biofilm thickness, you could calculate the heat transfer loss in your heat exchangers, potential production loss in a process plant, or increased electrical demand in a chiller plant. However, managing biofilm effectively only requires knowing its presence so you can react. The ultrasonic technology, while sophisticated, is more complicated, expensive, and challenging to use compared to electrochemical sensors."

Electrochemical Sensors: "The electrochemical sensors don't require a test chamber, allowing them to be placed in various locations to monitor biofilm. For example, you might choose a sump, a quiet area where the biofilm may not be mobile and may not respond to water treatment dosing."

Mechanism and Sensitivity: Loraine explains the mechanism behind biofilm formation: "Quorum sensing is the process where bacteria hover above a surface and assess it before settling. The electrochemical device triggers a signal the moment bacteria sit on the surface, providing an extremely sensitive early warning of biofilm formation."

Practical Implications for Water Professionals: Understanding where to place these sensors and how they work is crucial for effective biofilm management. Loraine emphasizes, "This economical and insightful method helps you understand biofilm risks in your cooling water systems, even though I've never seen one in service. It's essential to explore these technologies to monitor biofilm and mitigate its impact on your systems."

Actionable Steps for the Scaling UP! Nation.

1. Increase Awareness: Understanding the importance of biofilm can help in mitigating Legionella risks.
2. Leverage Technology: Utilize biofilm sensors for early detection and effective treatment.
3. Optimize Efficiency: Regular monitoring and maintenance can prevent biofilm buildup, ensuring optimal system performance.

Timestamps 00:30 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Legionella Awareness Month 02:40 - Interview with Loraine Huchler about the connection between biofilm and Legionella 37:30 -  Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 39:50 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 

Quotes ”Adding a biofilm sensor because the goal is to kill Legionella will give real-time early detection of biofilm and make precision dosing a reality for biocides.” - Loraine Huchler “You can connect biofilm to Legionella. If you have no biofilm, your risk of Legionella is very low.” - Loraine Huchler 

Connect with Loraine Huchler Phone: 757.442.5308 Email: [email protected] Website: www.martechsystems.com LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/loraine-huchler/ Technical paper: Eliminate Biofilm to Increase Energy in Efficiency in Water Systems 

Read or Download Loraine Huchler’s Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned All links mentioned on this episode can be found on  our Legionella Resources page HERE The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Ep 346 Revolutionizing Legionella Management: A 2024 Kickoff Special

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, we’re thinking about something?  What are we thinking about, you ask?  We’re thinking about the impacts of writing “Everything looks good” on your field service reports when in reality, everything doesn’t look good.  Does this give the recipient of your report a false sense of security?  Does this help them truly manage their water systems?  What about when something catastrophic happens, but your report showed “everything looks good” time after time after time?  Does it count if you verbally told the end user the true condition of the system but wrote “everything looks good” on the report to make them look good to their managers?  When it comes to monetary damages and legal action, which would hold up to scrutiny?  As I’ve always been told, if it’s not documented, it didn’t happen.  Think about that when writing your next field service report. 

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

“It is a team effort to protect public health from Legionella.” - Alberto Comazzi, Ph.D.

We are excited to welcome back Alberto Comazzi, Ph.D. of Sanipur US, for his third appearance on the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast. As an expert in waterborne pathogens, Alberto shares his invaluable insights and experiences about Legionella to help our audience stay informed and proactive in managing water systems. In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics from handling positive Legionella tests to the effectiveness of monochloramine in disinfection. Let's dive into the key points of our discussion.

How do you handle a call from a client panicking about their first positive Legionella test? Alberto advises us to stay calm and follow the pre-established plan outlined in the Water Management Plan (WMP). First, review the WMP to understand the specific steps to take for this scenario. Consider the positivity rates and the location where Legionella was found. By following the agreed-upon plan, you can address the client's concerns effectively and ensure proper action is taken.

 Why have we seen Legionella increase by nearly ten times over the past few years? “5-6 years ago there wasn’t much information about Legionella, and today so many people are interested in this field which protects public health.” - Alberto Comazzi, PhD

Dr. Comazzi highlights two key factors behind the significant rise in Legionella cases:

1. Enhanced Water Testing and Awareness: The past few years have seen a substantial increase in both awareness and testing for Legionella. Healthcare professionals are now more informed about the risks of Legionella and are conducting more tests. Since 2017, the requirement for Water Management Plans (WMPs) in healthcare facilities has led to more comprehensive water testing, contributing to the rise in detected cases.

2. Increased Water Age in Buildings: Efforts to conserve water, which have important environmental benefits such as saving energy and reducing costs, have inadvertently led to higher water age in building systems. When water remains in systems for longer periods, it can lead to reduced disinfectant levels and higher water temperatures—conditions that promote Legionella growth. While water conservation is crucial, balancing it with effective Legionella control measures is essential for maintaining public health.

By understanding these factors, we can better address and mitigate Legionella risks, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.

What advice do you have for those putting together a WMP but who doesn’t have the ASSE 1280 Certification?

Get Certified or Seek Expert Help: Creating a comprehensive Water Management Plan (WMP) can be complex. While obtaining ASSE 1280 certification is highly recommended, you can also consider hiring a consultant to help you draft your plan. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you execute and document the plan effectively. Proper training for facility operators on temperature control, flushing procedures, disinfectant management, and documentation is essential.

“A Water Management Plan that’s just sitting on the shelf isn’t doing anyone any good. If no one implements the plan, it is useless.” Dr. Alberto Comazzi emphasizes, “Proactive measures are better and more cost-effective than reactive ones.” With upcoming due diligence plans addressing various waterborne pathogens, being prepared is key.

Who has responsibility when it comes to municipal water? Alberto reminds us that there is a division between the municipality and the building.

Municipal Water Responsibility: Municipal water suppliers are responsible for providing water that meets regulatory standards up to the distribution system. They conduct primary disinfection to inactivate most microorganisms and secondary disinfection to maintain a residual disinfectant. However, there are no enforceable limits for Legionella in the municipal water supply, and testing for Legionella is not required.

Building-Level Responsibility: Once water leaves the municipal system and enters a building, the responsibility for water safety, including Legionella control, falls to the building owner or manager. Building environments, with their complex plumbing systems, cooling towers, and hot water systems, can foster Legionella growth. Therefore, effective management and control measures at the building level are crucial for ensuring water safety.

Monochloramine vs. Chlorine: Which is better Disinfection and Legionella Control in Building Water Systems?

Alberto highlights the advantages of monochloramine over chlorine: Case Study Results: A case study in San Francisco showed that switching from chlorine to monochloramine in the municipal water supply significantly reduced Legionella positivity rates in buildings—from 60% to 3-4%. This demonstrates the effectiveness of monochloramine in providing better overall disinfection due to its stability and ability to maintain higher disinfectant levels in building plumbing systems.

Comparison with Chlorine: Monochloramine, unlike chlorine, is less reactive with organic materials in water and thus produces fewer regulated disinfection byproducts. It is a more stable disinfectant, which makes it less likely to form harmful byproducts while still providing effective disinfection.

Effectiveness in Building Systems: In building water systems, especially those with low water usage or higher temperatures, monochloramine's stability is advantageous. It provides a more consistent and longer-lasting disinfectant presence throughout the system, reaching all areas effectively, which is crucial for preventing Legionella growth.

What long-term effects on sustainability and equipment should we consider when balancing water conservation with the use of additional disinfectants in buildings? Alberto outlines key considerations:

Corrosion Impact: When installing additional disinfectants, consider their potential to corrode plumbing systems. High levels of corrosive disinfectants can damage plumbing, so it's crucial to balance disinfection effectiveness with the preservation of the building's infrastructure.

Water Quality Effects: Assess whether the chosen disinfectant might increase other harmful molecules in the water. Evaluate disinfection efficacy not only in the lab but also in real-world building settings to ensure it does not negatively impact overall water quality.

Review Published Data: Refer to peer-reviewed literature and research from credible sources like the EPA to verify the long-term effects of disinfectants on water systems. Reliable data helps ensure that the disinfectant does not introduce unintended consequences and maintains water quality over time.

How did monochloramine perform in controlling Pseudomonas compared to traditional methods? In a case study, monochloramine was implemented in facilities with Pseudomonas issues and proved effective in reducing colonization. "Unlike short-term solutions like flushing and hyperchlorination, monochloramine's stability allowed it to reach all parts of the distribution system, providing long-term control" shares Alberto.

Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to celebrate Legionella Awareness Month  05:50 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 11:00 - Interview with Alberto Comazzi, Ph.D. 01:01:30 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald

Connect with Alberto Comazzi, Ph.D. Phone: 267-326-2353 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sanipur.com    Linkedin: /in/alberto-comazzi-phd-132637128/  company/sanipur-us-llc Technical Paper: Emerging Waterbone Pathogens in Buildings' Premise Plumbing System

Links Mentioned All links mentioned on this episode can be found on our Legionella Resources page HERE The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, I have a challenge for you.  Today’s challenge is…test boiler sulfite both immediately after sampling and again an hour later on the same, open sample.  Is there a difference?  Why is there a difference?  What would be the impact of waiting until later to run the sulfite test versus running it immediately?  How might your recommendations be different?  Could the way you run your test impact your results, such as how much you agitate the sample?

2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

"To find the most sensitive, accurate, reproducible, and reliable method for detecting and quantifying Legionella in a sample, qPCR is the best option.” - Michael Loewenstein

In this much-anticipated episode highlighting the findings of Part 2 of Michael Loewenstein and Joe Benzinger’s study,  Michael Loewenstein, Vice President of Scientific Consulting at Q Laboratories, returns to share their surprising discoveries. He offers valuable advice to water professionals on developing strategies for incorporating qPCR in a Water Management Plan (WMP). Join Trace Blackmore and Michael Loewenstein as they guide you through the latest advancements in Legionella detection methods, the nuances of traditional culture techniques versus modern qPCR, and the future of water management.

What Are the Different Testing Methods for Legionella? Michael elaborates on the two primary methods for Legionella testing: traditional culture techniques (ISO 11731) and qPCR. Culture methods, while widely used, take a significant amount of time (7 to 14+ days) to yield results. In contrast, qPCR offers faster and more sensitive detection, identifying the presence and quantity of Legionella DNA in a matter of hours.

Is There a “Gold Standard” for Legionella Testing? The term "Gold Standard" often pops up in discussions about Legionella testing, but as Michael points out, no regulatory body has officially designated a single best method. While ISO 11731 is a trusted standard, Michael argues that qPCR provides a more reliable, accurate, and sensitive approach for detecting and quantifying Legionella in samples.

What Were the Findings from Phase 2 of His Study? Michael shares findings from a two-phase study comparing cultural methods with PCR and qPCR. Phase 1 focused on method validation, confirming the efficacy of commercially available PCR methods. Phase 2 moved to real-world samples, revealing that qPCR detected Legionella in about 67% of samples, far surpassing the detection rates of traditional culture methods.

What Can qPCR Do and How Does It Differ from Culture Methods? qPCR is a powerful tool in Legionella testing. Unlike culture methods that rely on colony-forming units, qPCR measures the number of DNA copies present in a sample, providing a clear picture of the Legionella population. It can also distinguish between viable and non-viable cells, making it a comprehensive and efficient method for routine monitoring.

How Would Michael Set Up His Water Management Plan (WMP)? When asked how he would set up his water management plan, Michael emphasizes the importance of frequent testing. He advocates for the use of qPCR due to its speed and sensitivity. However, he cautions that those uncomfortable with detecting any Legionella might find qPCR overwhelming, as it tends to reveal a higher positivity rate than traditional methods.

How Does Pricing Compare Between Culture and qPCR Methods?Interestingly, Q Laboratories charges the same for both qPCR and culture methods. Despite higher costs for qPCR, it requires significantly less analyst time, making it a cost-effective choice for many labs.

What's Next for Phase 3 of the Study? The next phase of Michael's study aims to explore additional factors such as UV light treatment. He encourages feedback from the community to ensure all relevant aspects are covered in the ongoing research.

How Can I Get Involved with the AOAC Legionella Working Group? Please visit www.aoac.org/news/legionella-in-water-wg-volunteers-needed . If you would like to support this initiative or are interested in more information, please reach out to [email protected].

Michael's key message is that qPCR is a viable, non-intimidating option for Legionella testing. He reassures listeners that the CDC does not mandate the use of culture methods exclusively. Embracing qPCR can lead to more accurate monitoring and better-informed water management decisions.

Until next Friday’s episode, stay curious, stay informed, and keep scaling up your Legionella knowledge!

Your roadside friends as you drive from client to client,

The Scaling UP! H2O Team

Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to check out our Legionella Resources page 03:28 -  Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 05:00 - Interview with Michael Loewenstein, Vice President, Scientific Consulting at Q Laboratories 51:05 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 

Quotes “PCR detects whether Legionella DNA is present, while qPCR not only confirms its presence but also measures the quantity of Legionella DNA in a sample.” -  Michael Loewenstein “The CDC does not say you have to use culture.” - Michael Loewenstein “An increase in Legionella positivity with a qPCR test is a feature, not a bug.” - Michael Loewenstein

Connect with Michael Loewenstein Phone: +1 513 207 4943 Email: [email protected] Website: Scientific Consulting for Q Labs LLC LinkedIn: Michael Loewenstein Read or Download Michael Loewenstein’s Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned Ep 269 Ep 335 Read Michael Loewenstein’s technical paper HERE The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, I have a “What If.” What if acid is overfed to a cooling tower system and drops the pH to a 3. You heard it correctly, the pH is now 3 in your cooling tower system. What damage is being done right now. How do you recover from this low pH excursion? Should you just turn off the acid feed and wait for the system pH to slowly return naturally? What could be the impact of this approach? Should you take immediate action and raise the pH as quickly as possible? What could be the impact of this approach? Should you increase blowdown? What caused the acid over feed? How could this be prevented in the future? What alarms could be setup? What do you communicate all this to the end user?

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

We have the privilege of welcoming back Janet E. Stout, Ph.D., President of Special Pathogens Technology and the founder of Special Pathogens Laboratory, A Pace Laboratory. Dr. Stout has academic affiliations with the School of Public Health and Swanson School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. A self-described "Legionellologist", Dr. Stout's more than 30 years of research has defined the epidemiology, microbiology and prevention approaches for controlling Legionella growth in building water systems.

In our most recent interview, Dr. Janet Stout shared what was new with Legionella standards, what state health departments are doing to combat Legionella, and she answers your burning question of “Are Legionella cases truly on the rise” with data and statistics. This is a Legionella episode you cannot afford to miss, so let’s scale up our Legionella knowledge with Dr. Stout. Also, don’t forget to check out our free Legionella Resources page where we have listed all of the articles, standards, and tools mentioned in this interview.

What Is New with Legionella Standards? How Does It Impact the Water Treatment Industry?

Dr. Stout highlights several key updates:

Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) TIR34:2023 Published in Fall 2023, TIR34 focuses on water quality for reprocessing medical devices. Dr. Stout emphasizes, "The problem is infection. The solution is the quality of the water." "There are clear chemical and microbial parameters, and these healthcare facilities need your assistance, water professionals," Dr. Stout encourages.

ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 This new standard, “Water for the processing of medical devices,” emphasizes the critical role of monitoring water quality to prevent microbial proliferation. ST108 is a significant step forward for patient safety. “I see so many positive indications of progress and prevention, and that’s good for everyone,” shares Dr. Stout.

General Services Administration (GSA) Order PBS 1000.7A Effective in 2024, this order mandates comprehensive water testing across federal buildings to ensure health and safety. It includes stringent testing protocols for contaminants like Legionella. Compliance requires professionals to hold certifications such as ASSE 12080 or be certified industrial hygienists (CIH). Dr. Stout remarks, "It's such a big deal that you have to be ASSE 12080 certified to service government buildings now, I’m really impressed by GSA."

American Water Works Association (AWWA) Guidance Set to be updated in 2024 or 2025, the new standard will replace AWWA C651-C652 and will likely be titled “Disinfecting Potable Water.” This new guidance will provide updated protocols for disinfecting water-storage facilities, so be on the lookout for this new one.

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 514:2023 This standard focuses on risk management for building water systems, covering physical, chemical, and microbial hazards. It provides comprehensive guidelines for designing, building, maintaining, and operating water systems to protect building occupants.

Challenge to the Listener:

• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the latest standards, including TIR34, ST108, GSA Order PBS 1000.7A, and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 514.
• Engage with Clients: Reach out to healthcare facilities and federal buildings to offer your expertise in water management and help them navigate the new requirements.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from organizations like AAMI, ASHRAE, GSA, and AWWA to stay ahead of industry changes.

What's Going on in Ohio? Will Other States Follow Ohio?

Ohio's Proactive Approach Dr. Janet Stout praises Ohio's innovative approach to managing Legionella risks. Unlike most areas where Legionella water management is voluntary, Ohio has taken a significant step by mandating it through hospital licensure codes. This mandate requires hospitals to have a water management plan and to test for Legionella, making compliance a condition for maintaining their licenses. The new regulation, scheduled to take effect in October 2024, aims to enhance infection control and manage the risk of waterborne pathogens, particularly Legionella.

High Incidence of Legionnaires Disease Ohio's proactive stance is partly driven by its high incidence of Legionnaires disease. The state, along with Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York, consistently reports high numbers of cases. Ohio's health department has noted a significant increase in cases from 2022 to 2023. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for effective water management and testing protocols.

The Ohio Regulation Specifies Detailed Requirements for Hospitals:

• Each hospital must conduct Legionella testing within the first twelve months.
• Two validation tests must be performed, no fewer than four months apart and no more than six months apart.
• The regulation includes explicit language to ensure rigorous water management and Legionella testing.

The Future for Other States Dr. Stout is hopeful that other states will follow Ohio's example. She mentions ongoing legislative efforts in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, although the process is slow. Ohio's innovative and mandatory approach to Legionella water management sets a precedent that could influence other states. Dr. Stout's optimism reflects a broader movement towards more stringent and proactive water management practices across the country. As more states recognize the importance of these measures, we can expect a gradual but significant shift towards better management of Legionella and other waterborne pathogens.

Are Legionella Cases Truly on the Rise?

"Legionella is on the rise," Dr. Stout shares. "It's not increasing just because we are doing more testing." She also points to changing weather patterns as a contributing factor. "There's a global shift with Legionnaires' disease cases extending from summer into fall. The season is getting longer, and things are staying warmer longer."

This observation highlights the need for a deeper understanding of how environmental factors and public health practices influence Legionella prevalence.

We hope you found these insights from Dr. Janet Stout valuable. Legionella management is a critical aspect of industrial water treatment, and staying informed and proactive is key to ensuring the safety and health of building occupants. As always, we encourage you to continue learning, sharing, and growing within our community.

Thank you for being a dedicated member of the Scaling UP! H2O community and for celebrating Legionella Awareness Month with us. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against Legionnaires' disease.

Timestamps 01:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 06:00 - Interview with Janet E. Stout, Ph.D. is President of Special Pathogens Technology and the founder of Special Pathogens Laboratory, A Pace Laboratory 01:14:20 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald

Quotes “It is happy Legionella Awareness Month because we are making progress.” - Dr. Janet Stout “I give Ohio a round of applause for doing the right thing!” - Dr. Janet Stout “You don’t know if your efforts are working unless you test for it.”- Dr. Janet Stout “This is unacceptable: Legionnaires' disease remains a very high mortality infection. 25-30% of hospitalized patients who get legionella from the hospital die.” - Dr. Janet Stout “I see so many good indications of progress and prevention.” - Dr. Janet Stout “We need to make progress on mandatory testing because it's the only way to understand risk. We want to mitigate the risk.” - Dr. Janet Stout

Connect with Janet E. Stout, Ph.D. Phone: 412.281.5335 Email: [email protected]  Website: www.specialpathogenslab.com ST108, Utility Water (UWK) Kit LinkedIn: in/janet-e-stout-ph-d-32607612 company/special-pathogens-laboratory

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, I have a challenge for you.  The challenge is…update your LinkedIn profile.  Do it right now.  If you’re driving, do it when you next stop.  The days of LinkedIn being just a resume are long gone.  Today, it’s your calling card, your networking tool, and a learning tool.  Check out your name. Did you accidentally flip your name, so your last name comes before your first?  If you did, fix it now.  Is the name listed the one you actually go by?  If you go by a nickname, either put it in parenthesis or replace your formal name with it.  What does the headline right below your name say?  You get 3 seconds to catch someone’s attention.  Does this little headline phrase under your name really say what you do and who you are?  What about your picture?  Do you look like the person people in your network would actually meet in person or are you dressed in a tuxedo or bridesmaid gown from the last wedding you were in?  I doubt many of us are doing our jobs in tuxedos and gowns.  Does your picture look unprofessional in other ways, as well?  The first things people see when looking at your LinkedIn calling card, as I call it, is your name, face, and headline.  Ensuring these three items are correct is the first place to start.  Then you can move on to experience, education (if applicable), etc.

2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

Hello Scaling UP! Nation, August is Legionella Awareness Month, and we're excited to bring you in-depth insights on this crucial topic. Usually, we bring you four episodes every August, but this year, you're in luck! With five Fridays this month, we have five episodes packed with valuable information for you. Today, podcast host Trace Blackmore, CWT, is here to answer your pressing questions about Legionella. As industrial water treaters, you are the heroes in the fight against Legionella, protecting your communities and clients against this dangerous bacteria. Scaling up your Legionella knowledge is a great way to celebrate Legionella Awareness Month, and to support you, we've created a free Legionella resources page at www.ScalingUpH2o.com/Legionella

Understanding Legionella: Common Questions Answered

What is the difference between Legionella and Legionnaires’ disease?

Legionella is a bacteria responsible for Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia that comes from getting ill after being exposed to Legionella. It thrives in water and poses significant health risks. Legionnaires’ disease was discovered in the mid 1970’s after several attendees of the American Legion convention got sick after attending the convention.

How does a person get Legionnaires’ disease?

Inhaling water contaminated with Legionella bacteria can lead to infection.

What are the symptoms of Pontiac Fever or Legionnaires’ disease?

Early symptoms mimic the flu, but more severe pneumonia-like symptoms can develop. Look out for high fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, and diarrhea. 

How common is Legionnaires’ disease?

Per the CDC, in 2015 there were approximately 6,000 cases reported in the United States.

Who is at higher risk for developing Legionnaires’ disease?

While most people have resistance, fewer than 5 in 100 exposed individuals may develop the disease. High-risk groups include older adults, smokers, and those with weakened immune systems.

How does Legionella enter buildings?

Legionella enters through a building’s makeup water. This is why we need to test the water coming into a building’s system and also set up a program to test within the system so we know what to do and respond appropriately if a test comes back positive for Legionella bacteria.

What promotes Legionella growth?

Biofilm, temperature fluctuations, inadequate disinfectant levels, and water stagnation within building water systems can promote Legionella growth

What are Water Management Programs (WMPs)?

WMPs are designed to identify hazardous conditions and minimize the growth and spread of waterborne pathogens, including Legionella, in building water systems.

How Should I Discuss Legionella Testing Frequency with a Client Who Only Wants to Test Once a Year?

When discussing Legionella testing with a client who only wants to test once a year, emphasize the importance of more frequent testing for safety and compliance. Here’s how to approach the conversation:

1. Encourage Regular Testing: I always encourage people to test for Legionella at least every season or quarter. Regular testing helps identify potential issues early, ensuring the safety of your water system.
2. Refer to the Water Management Plan (WMP): It's crucial to refer back to your Water Management Plan (WMP) to understand the necessary steps if a test comes back positive for Legionella bacteria.
3. Develop a Comprehensive Plan: Let's come up with a plan outlining what we are going to test, how often we will test, and how we will use the data. We should also decide how to handle positive results, particularly for different Legionella species. Taking some time to plan upfront will streamline the process when collecting water samples.

By emphasizing the benefits of regular testing and a proactive approach, you can help clients understand the importance of more frequent Legionella testing and the value of a detailed WMP.

Where can I find more information?

On our Scaling UP! H2O Legionella Resources Page at www.ScalingUpH2o.com/Legionella there you’ll find Legionella resources collected from the CDC, ASHRAE, OSHA, ASPE, WHO, ASSE, APIC, AIHA, ANSI, ASDWA, AWT, CMS, and others along with our prior Legionella podcast episodes, Legionella Legislation, and Legionella videos. 

Upcoming 2024 Legionella Awareness Month Episodes:

This month, we have a special lineup of episodes focusing on Legionella, featuring expert guests who will share their insights:

Episode 376: Dr. Janet Stout, PhD Episode 377: Michael Loewenstein Episode 378: Dr. Alberto Comazzi, PhD Episode 379: Loraine Huchler

Stay tuned, and let's scale up our knowledge together to combat Legionella and ensure safer water systems.

Thank you for being a part of the Scaling UP! H2O community. Thank you for celebrating Legionella Awareness Month with us. The Scaling UP! H2O Team

Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Legionella Awareness Month 03:00 -  Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 06:00 - Answering Legionella Questions 31:15 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 

Quotes “I always encourage people to test for Legionella at least every season or quarter. It's crucial to refer back to your Water Management Plan (WMP) to know the necessary steps to take if your test comes back positive for Legionella bacteria.” - Trace Blackmore

“Let’s come up with a plan for what we are going to test, how often we are going to test, and what we are going to do with that data, and if we do get a positive what you want to handle that if we get certain species. Take some time upfront and then get the water sample.” - Trace Blackmore

Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Read and Download Trace Blackmore's Discussion Guide HERE

Links Mentioned Ep 355 Ep 227 Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, I have another “what if” for you.  What if industrial water treatment did not exist.  I mean no industrial water treatment equipment, no industrial water treatment chemistry, no industrial water treatment knowledge, and no people practicing the industrial water treatment profession.  How would the world we live in be different?  What would the rivers, lakes, oceans, and even skies look like?  What would our standard of living be like?  How would our health be impacted?  What would be the impact upon the cost of goods if industrial water treatment did not exist?  Thinking in such an extreme as this really makes one appreciate what it is we industrial water treatment professionals truly bring to the world.

2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

Each week, we bring you insights from industry experts to help you scale up your water treatment knowledge and operations. This week, we're thrilled to share strategies for effective customer and employee surveys based on a recent interview with  Brian Katarski, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at AquaPhoenix Scientific. Brian's extensive experience in sales and marketing makes him a valuable source of knowledge on how to gather and use feedback to drive improvement.

How Important is Feedback? “Feedback plays a very important role in all relationships: employees, coworkers, even your spouse.” - Brian Katarski

Feedback is a cornerstone of growth. It empowers teams to improve by increasing their knowledge and confidence. Brian emphasizes the necessity of not just collecting feedback but using it as a foundation for continuous improvement.

What is Feedback? “The most important part of feedback is that we have to use it as a basis for improvement. You cannot collect feedback just to ignore it, or justify it away, or pretend like it doesn't exist.” - Brian Katarski

According to Brian, feedback should be actionable. Whether it’s from customers or employees, feedback needs to be addressed constructively. Ignoring or dismissing feedback is counterproductive. Instead, look each other in the eye and commit to acting on the feedback received.

How Do You Build a Healthy Culture of Feedback in Your Company? “The biggest piece to it is if you want to encourage this long-term over time is you have to respond to the feedback. You can't just ignore it, right? You can't ghost it, or you can't just think it didn't happen. or say. you know. justify it away. You have to respond to it in a way that lets somebody know ‘I heard you. I understand. Here's what we're gonna do with that information now’, right. And that way they and they now know that we care. That we want to hear what they have to say whether it's an employee or a customer. They know that we're going to listen to what they have to say, and they'll be more willing to share that information with us.” - Brian Katarski

Creating a healthy feedback culture starts with demonstrating that feedback is valued and acted upon. Brian highlights the importance of responding to feedback promptly and constructively. When employees or customers see that their input leads to real action, they are more likely to continue providing valuable insights.

“You've got to try some different tactics and different things to try to reach certain people. Sometimes it's a quick paper survey. You know, maybe as you're walking out. Maybe you send an email or a link with your service reports whenever you send those off on Fridays or whenever you do it. Just different ways to do it, maybe put it on an invoice you're sending off, maybe have your marketing team sending those out, but you'll kind of figure out the best ways to gather that information depending on how people do it.” - Brian Katarski

Diverse methods of collecting feedback ensure that you reach a broad audience and gather a variety of perspectives. Whether it's through paper surveys, emails, links in service reports, or even feedback sections on invoices, finding the right approach for your audience is key to building a robust feedback culture.

How Do You Start and Encourage a Feedback Process? “Build out a plan around what you want to gather feedback on. Start with the end in mind.” - Brian Katarski

Brian advises beginning with a clear plan. Identify what specific feedback you need and how you will use it to drive improvement. By focusing on the end goal, you can design a process that ensures the feedback is both meaningful and actionable.

“It depends on what you want to gather and from who. It's gotta be simple and quick.” - Brian Katarski

To encourage feedback, keep surveys short and straightforward, aiming for 1-5 questions. Use a variety of methods depending on your audience—quick paper surveys, emails, or links in service reports. Formal methods and scheduled discussions can be employed when necessary. Track and trend feedback over time to pinpoint areas of improvement.

“At AquaPhoenix, we celebrate feedback because it gives us a chance to learn and improve.” - Brian Katarski

A culture that values feedback fosters continuous learning and improvement. By celebrating feedback, you reinforce its importance and encourage ongoing participation from both employees and customers.

What Are Some Common Feedback Mistakes to Avoid? “Humility is key. Accept feedback and resist the urge to get defensive.” - Brian Katarski

Brian stresses the importance of humility in accepting feedback. Early in his career, he struggled with defensiveness, but now he focuses on understanding the underlying issues and using feedback to drive improvement.

"Every time I feel that weird reaction, that sort of tension, I ask myself: What's driving that? Where's that coming from? And 9 times out of 10, it's my ego. It's me trying to protect myself because I don't want to admit that we were wrong, I don't want to admit that something happened, I don't want to accept that feedback. I think that's the biggest thing I can tell you." - Brian Katarski

By recognizing the role of ego and defensiveness, Brian has learned to embrace feedback as a tool for growth. This shift in mindset allows him to find valuable insights in feedback, even when it's difficult to hear, and to continuously improve processes and relationships.

We hope these insights from Brian Katarski help you implement effective feedback strategies in your organization. Stay tuned for next week's episode of Scaling UP! H2O, where we continue to bring you valuable industry insights.

Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore asks you to look for the things that give you butterflies in your tummy because you are doing something new and challenging 04:05 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:45 - Interview with Brian Katarski, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at AquaPhoenix Scientific 51:00 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald 

Connect with Brian Katarski Phone: 717.465.7859 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aquaphoenixsci.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bkatarski/ linkedin.com/company/aquaphoenix-scientific/ Read or Download Brian Katarski’s Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned Episode 325 Episode 298 Free Legionella Resources Page Industrial Water Week Resources Page Marriage App, Paired Hooper's Crab House, Ocean City, Maryland Hubspot CRM The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, we’re thinking about BOD and COD. First, what do these acronyms stand for: BOD and COD? How are they measured? Is one of them always equal to or higher than the other? Why would BOD or COD be used in water treatment? What can impact the BOD or COD of a water? What water treatment can change it?

2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

Collaboration: Enhancing Efficiency Through Industry Partnerships

Welcome to this week's edition of Scaling UP! H2O, where we explore the critical role of water treatment in optimizing industrial processes. Today, we are privileged to hear from two distinguished guests: Tony Mormino and Justin Lynch. Tony is Technical Sales and Marketing Director for Insight Partners and host of the The Engineers HVAC Podcast specializing in education, while Justin focuses on cooling tower Reconstruction Specialists. Together, they share invaluable insights into collaborative strategies that ensure the best and most cost-effective solutions for cooling towers and closed loop systems. Their discussion focused on the importance of collaboration, cost efficiency, and proactive maintenance in the field of water treatment. Tony and Justin's insights provide a roadmap for water treaters to enhance client outcomes and operational efficiency through strategic partnerships and informed decision-making.

What Are the Cost and Efficiency Benefits of Proper Water Treatment? Cost efficiency emerges as a significant topic. Tony Mormino underscores the financial benefits of proper water treatment, citing examples where a modest investment in water treatment can yield substantial savings. "According to the Department of Energy, 40% of a commercial building's energy consumption goes to HVAC systems," explains Tony. "Simply improving water quality can lead to 5-10% savings in energy costs. It's a quick win for green building initiatives."

How Do You Prevent Vibrations in Cooling Towers? Bad vibrations in cooling towers can be a significant issue if not addressed early. Justin Lynch highlights the importance of monitoring biological buildup and evaporative salts on the fans. "It's very difficult to do that if you don't catch it early. Let's say we go to a facility with an old tower and an old fan—there's going to be a little bit of biology on top, which is not a big deal. You can brush that off, do a light pressure washing, and it’s not going to hurt it," explains Justin. However, the real issue arises when scale develops unevenly on each blade. "At that point, the fan may look horrible, but the tower still operates without vibration. If you clean five out of six blades well but can't get the scale off one blade, you just created a vibration, leading to other issues in the tower." Justin advises that while chemical treatments are effective, they should be done with caution and under professional guidance to avoid exacerbating the problem. This proactive maintenance is less of a concern for newer towers that have had chemical treatment from the start. How Does Air in Closed Loop Chilled Water Systems Affect Performance? Tony Mormino highlights a critical yet often overlooked issue in water treatment: Air in closed loop chilled water systems. This issue not only leads to rust and oxidation but also significantly impacts the system efficiency and longevity. Studies and practical examples underscore the importance of air removal systems:

Removing air from the chill water system can result in substantial benefits:

• Increase in Tonnage Output: Youngstown State University reported a 16% increase in tonnage output, equivalent to 400 additional tons.
• Improvement in Delta T: From 8.5-10°, enhancing heat transfer efficiency across chiller barrels.
• Enhanced Building Discharge Air Temperatures: Temperatures improved from 65° to 55°, optimizing HVAC system performance.
• Reduction in Pump Energy Consumption: A notable 37% reduction in annual KWH requirements due to cleaner water and improved system operation.

Moreover, practical cases like at Waukesha Memorial Hospital in Wisconsin showed a 22% reduction in Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) speed, leading to an 85% decrease in corrosion preventative chemical usage. These examples illustrate the direct correlation between air removal and energy savings, reinforcing the significant impact of proper water treatment practices on operational efficiency and cost savings in commercial HVAC systems.

How Important is Passivation for Equipment Longevity and Performance? Justin Lynch highlights the critical role of passivation in maintaining equipment longevity, particularly in galvanized towers. "Passivation is essential to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance," Justin explains. "For instance, following Marley's guidelines for pH and calcium hardness during passivation can extend the life of galvanized towers significantly."

Conclusion In the fast-evolving landscape of industrial water treatment and HVAC systems, collaboration and continuous learning are paramount. Justin Lynch's closing thoughts encapsulate this spirit perfectly: “Don't be afraid to call, don't be afraid to collaborate. You are the expert in your field; I'm supposed to be the expert in mine. There's too much going on in this industry. It's growing too fast for everyone to really understand everything. So, if you don't know, ask questions and learn together. When you can do that together, you build a good network, and customers trust you and respect you after that.” Embracing this collaborative approach not only enhances our expertise but also ensures that we provide the best possible solutions for our customers, fostering trust and respect in our professional relationships.

Timestamps 01:00 - Free Legionella Awareness Month and Industrial Water Week resources can be found on our website 09:10 - Interview with Tony Mormino and Justin Lynch 50:00 - Closing thoughts about the power of collaboration with Trace 54:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 56:42 - Evaporative Salts, Scale, and using the correct language with clients 59:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Quotes “Downtime is lost profit.” - Justin Lynch “Water quality is key. It's crucial for maintaining a tower's expected lifespan, and without it, customers could face significant costs." - Justin Lynch “I consider the water the lifeblood of the system because it touches every component.” - Tony Mormino “In our industry, collaboration is essential. As experts in our respective fields, we have a responsibility to work together, share knowledge, and tackle challenges as a unified front." - shares Justin Lynch “The best way to market is to give away good, free content.” - Tony Mormino

Connect with Justin Lynch Phone: 919.602.1658 Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/justin-lynch-0355458b Read or Download Tony and Justin’s Press Release HERE Connect with Tony Mormino Phone: 828.712.4769 Email: [email protected] Website: www.insightusa.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tony-mormino linkedin.com/company/insightusa YouTube: @InsightPartnersHVACTV Podcast: The Engineers HVAC Podcast

Resources Mentioned All Cooling Tower resources can be found on our Free Industrial Water Week Page HERE in the Cooling Wednesday Tab All Legionella Resources can be found on our Free Legionella Page HERE Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. Water Cake Recipe

Our lab partner today is Jed Harris, owner of Puretec Industrial Water with over 25 years of experience in the water industry, to delve into the world of Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems. Jed’s extensive experience and deep understanding of high-purity water solutions provided a wealth of knowledge, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to scale up their water treatment expertise. Below, we highlight some of the best insights Jed shared, aimed at making the complex world of RO systems more accessible and intriguing.

Reverse Osmosis: The Industry Workhorse Jed describes reverse osmosis as the workhorse of water treatment, efficiently removing up to 99% of dissolved solids, organics, bacteria, and viruses. This process involves using a high-pressure pump to force water through a semi-permeable membrane, reversing natural osmotic pressure. Whether you're  in power generation, food and beverage, or pharmaceuticals, understanding RO systems is crucial as they play a pivotal role in ensuring water purity.

Common RO Applications and Challenges RO systems are ubiquitous across various industries. Jed emphasizes their versatility but also highlights the complexities involved in managing them. He notes that the feedwater chemistry can vary, making it essential for operators to understand and monitor their systems to maintain optimal performance. This is particularly critical as the industry pushes for higher recovery rates, often pushing RO systems to their limits.

Key Metrics for Monitoring RO Systems Trace Blackmore posed a crucial question; “What are some of the key things that we should be looking at to tell what's going on within the RO?”. Jed Harris provided valuable insights; “You want to look at your flows, your qualities, your pressures, and last but not least, the feedwater temperature—which has a huge effect on all this stuff. You want to look at your permeate flow, your concentrate flow, your feed pressure, your concentrate pressure, and your permeate pressure if available. And then the qualities would be your feed conductivity and your permeate conductivity.”

Practical Tips for RO System Maintenance Jed shared several practical tips for maintaining RO systems. He advises partnering with a company that can conduct water analysis and projection to set the system up correctly. Regularly collecting data—ideally daily—and using normalization software to interpret this data is crucial. He also cautioned against the impact of temperature changes, noting that a decrease in feedwater temperature can lead to a significant drop in permeate flow, potentially misleading operators to think there’s a problem when there isn’t.

Normalizing Data for Accurate Analysis One of the most insightful parts of the discussion was on the importance of data normalization. Jed explained, “By normalizing the data, what you’re doing is essentially taking data when you start up the RO system, and then, as you go into the future, you’re comparing the current performance to how it should be at the baseline.” This helps accurately assess the system’s performance, especially when dealing with variables like temperature fluctuations that can significantly impact the RO system’s output.

Temperature's Effect on RO Jed Harris explains the critical impact of temperature on RO systems: "Temperature has such a huge effect on the amount of water that will go through a membrane. RO membranes are like the Miami Dolphins; they don't do well in cold weather. The rule of thumb is for every one-degree Fahrenheit drop in water temperature, you're going to lose about 1.5% in permeate flow. You might notice a decrease in permeate flow and think, 'Hey, these membranes are dirty. They're plugged. We need to clean; something's wrong.' But in reality, nothing's wrong. It's just that the feedwater temperature has dropped."

Pre-Treatment is Key Jed Harris emphasizes the crucial role of proper pretreatment for RO systems: “Pre-treatment is the key to everything.” Jed also highlights the growing adoption of Ultrafiltration (UF) systems, which offer a more consistent quality level compared to traditional multimedia filters. He outlines three primary objectives:

1. Prevent Oxidizer Damage: Once an RO membrane is damaged by an oxidizer, the damage is irreversible.
2. Inhibit Scale Growth: Delay and inhibit scale growth for as long as possible.
3. Reduce Suspended Solids: Minimizing suspended solids helps achieve the highest possible recovery rate.

Biofouling: The Unavoidable Challenge Trace and Jed addressed one of the most persistent issues with RO systems: biofouling. Jed explained, “Biofouling is a huge issue… it’s going to happen because we’re removing chlorine before the RO system.” As chlorine, an oxidizer, is removed to protect the RO membranes, any bacteria that enter the system will thrive due to the rich nutrient environment. Monitoring normalized data is crucial as it provides early signs of membrane fouling, indicating it’s time for cleaning. Jed highlighted a peculiar phenomenon: “When biofouling takes root in these membranes, a lot of times the normalized salt rejection will increase,” which can be misleading.

When and How to Clean Membranes Cleaning membranes is both a straightforward and complex task. Jed Harris recommends against cleaning every time there is a 10% drop in normalized permeate flow, calling this practice excessive and potentially harmful to the membranes. Instead, operators should monitor the trends in normalized permeate flow and clean based on site-specific conditions. Typically, cleaning occurs every three months, but this can vary. Jed advises operators to watch for a drop in normalized permeate flow, an increase in normalized pressure differentials, and changes in normalized salt rejection as key indicators that cleaning is needed.

Cleaning Methods There are two primary methods for cleaning RO membranes: on-site clean-in-place systems or off-site cleaning facilities. At Pure Tech, membranes are pre- and post-tested to assess their condition and effectiveness after cleaning. “Some membranes are just done… and others are returned to the customer and reinstalled,” Jed explained, highlighting the importance of thorough evaluation during the cleaning process.

Real-World RO Membrane Repurposing Jed shared a humorous yet telling story from the pandemic. While visiting Egypt, he discovered that a village was using old RO membranes as the foundation for various structures. This anecdote underscores the importance of proper maintenance and the potential for repurposing equipment in creative ways. 

Resources and Contact Information For those interested in learning more, Jed recommended visiting Puretec’s website, where a wealth of resources is available. “Please visit our website puretecwater.com, and we have a great team here,” Jed said, inviting listeners to reach out for further assistance.

Conclusion Jed’s insights into RO systems, from biofouling to membrane cleaning and real-world experiences, provide invaluable knowledge for maintaining and optimizing these critical systems. As always, we encourage our listeners to keep learning and implementing best practices to ensure the longevity and efficiency of their water treatment systems.

Learn More For those who want to dive deeper, Jed has a comprehensive paper available on Puretec's website HERE detailing how to collect and normalize data for RO systems. We highly recommend checking it out and implementing these best practices in your operations.

As always, we encourage you to keep learning and growing in your water treatment knowledge. Remember, as Trace’s father wisely said, "The day you stop learning in water treatment is the day you need to find a new career."

Stay curious, stay informed, and keep Scaling UP your RO knowledge!

Your Scaling UP! H2O Team

Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore encourages you to reach out to someone you admire for help and to make a bucket list 07:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:00 - Interview with Jed Harris, owner of Puretec Industrial Water 47:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 

Quotes “Biofouling is going to happen because we're removing chlorine before the RO system, and any bacteria or living thing that makes it past into the RO system is just going to thrive. There's a big food source in there, and they're going to grow.” - Jed Harris “If you clean at a 10% drop, you're going to be cleaning nonstop, and if you clean too much, you're going to affect the membrane's ability to reject salts. You can't just clean these membranes every day.” - Jed Harris “Pre-treatment is the key to everything. When an RO membrane is damaged by an oxidizer, it’s done, it's irreversible. Delay and inhibit scale growth as long as possible, and reduce the amount of suspended solids to up the recovery to its highest possible level.” - Jed Harris

Connect with Jed Harris Phone: 805.340.6190 Email: [email protected] Website: puretecwater.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jedharris/ linkedin.com/company/puretec-industrial-water/ Read or Download Jed Harris’ Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned RO Data Collection and Normalization by Jed Harris Puretec Water Resources Ep 371 with Scott Slade Ep 368 with Tim Fulton Ep 35 with Wes Byrne Ep 339 with Jane Kucera The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea

Books Mentioned The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir 101 So Bad, They're Good Dad Jokes by Elias Hill Reverse Osmosis: A Practical Guide For Users by Wes Byrne Reverse Osmosis: Industrial Processes and Applications 2nd Edition by Jane Kucera

Drop By Drop with James In today’s episode, I have a “what if.” What if the temperature of the makeup water feeding an RO decreases? How would a lower water temperature impact the RO’s performance? Will it impact the quality of the permeate water produced? Will it impact salt passage across the membrane? Will it impact operating pressures? Will it impact dechlorination chemistry, if used? Understanding the impact of temperature on water treatment systems can be important troubleshooting knowledge to have. 

2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.