SOS Village Water Sampling

Specialty Consulting, Inc. (SPC) conducted water sampling at SOS Children’s Villages in Lockport, IL, to detect Legionella bacteria levels in the domestic water system. SPC collected samples from various facility locations using a detailed protocol. Each sampling site included four samples: the first draw and maximum temperature draw from both the kitchen sink and master/common shower. Additional samples were taken from the Recreation Center's kitchen and men’s bathroom, the Main Office women’s restroom, the Main Water Line, and the Retention Pond.

SPC surveyed the entire SOS Children’s Village to create a representative sampling plan, collecting 30 samples from residential homes, the recreation center, administrative offices, and the retention pond. All samples were sent to a certified microbiology lab under a strict chain of custody and analyzed using PCR Next Day Legionella and Standard Legionella ISO methods.

Based on the results, SPC prepared a report detailing the findings and offered recommendations for managing the water system. They advised the implementation of a Legionella Management Plan following CDC guidelines, including periodic monitoring and potential treatment. Re-sampling was recommended post-treatment to ensure its effectiveness.

This project demonstrated SPC’s expertise in environmental consulting, effectively managing complex water quality assessments and providing solutions to ensure public health and safety.