Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterial species which is particularly good at forming #biofilms. Its growth in drinking water can cause problems with colour, taste, odour and turbidity if found in high numbers.
Once established, biofilms can be difficult to eradicate from manmade water systems, because they need a biodispersant (a chemical to breakdown the biofilm) and/or physical removal prior to disinfection.
Contamination of taps and shower heads Pseudomonas aeruginosa, particularly in hospitals or healthcare environments, results from the bacteria either being introduced via the mains supply or more frequently, via back contamination due to poor cleaning or installation practices. Due to the often sporadic use of some of these outlets, the bacteria can attach to the internal pipework surfaces and form a biofilm to protect themselves and then start to multiply. Patients with cystic fibrosis, burn victims, individuals with cancer, and patients requiring extensive stays in intensive care units are particularly at risk of disease resulting from Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.
This is why we created the Challis Ag+ Sentinel™ Valve and Sentinel™ Shower Head and Sentinel™ Hose. In each of these products, we have integrated key components that prevent any back contamination by aerosols.
Unlike Point of Use (POU) filters which contain the bacteria, the copper and silver-plated copper mesh technology used within these products, disrupts the cell membrane on contact, eliminating its capacity to multiply