Careful implementation of Tyrrell Analytics’ monitoring features has enabled the platform to address various challenges, with one standout application being its collaboration with Aquaportal. Through the integration of lightweight IoT sensors and a streamlined setup process, the white-labelled version of the platform has consistently delivered accurate Legionella compliance reporting, even in complex scenarios.
This case study highlights the critical role of monitoring and reporting in ensuring public safety, particularly when managing health risks such as Legionella bacteria. Accurate and timely monitoring is essential for gathering actionable insights and effectively mitigating serious threats.
Understanding Monitoring
Legionella bacteria thrive in water at temperatures between 20–45°C. When airborne water droplets containing bacteria are inhaled, they can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe and potentially fatal form of pneumonia.
Given the bacteria’s microscopic nature, visual identification is impossible. Traditional methods, such as water sampling and laboratory testing, are reactive and do not address existing contamination. Therefore, prevention through proactive monitoring is the best defence.
The Tyrrell Analytics platform, through its white-label partnership with Aquaportal, offers an effective solution to monitor and track risks. By enabling real-time monitoring and centralised data analysis, the platform has been instrumental in protecting high-risk environments, such as schools.
The Situation Before Tyrrell Analytics Implementation
Prior to the implementation of Tyrrell Analytics and Aquaportal, the target school sites faced significant challenges:
- Lack of Preparedness: The sites relied on outdated Building Management Systems (BMS) that required manual input, leaving gaps in monitoring and response capabilities.
- Inefficient Monitoring: Basic tools like thermostats and time clocks were used to manage water temperature but lacked the ability to monitor risks effectively.
- Inconsistent Reporting: The reliance on manual processes led to delays, errors, and inconsistencies in reporting, hindering effective risk management.
- Minimal Preventative Measures: Without automated alerts or historical data analysis, identifying and addressing risks was inefficient and reactive.
This left the school sites vulnerable, and unable to consistently identify, monitor, or address bacterial risks in their water systems.
The Solution
The Tyrrell Analytics platform was deployed to transform bacterial monitoring and reporting:
- System Assessment: The existing BMS systems were reviewed to identify deficiencies.
- IoT Integration: Lightweight IoT sensors and cellular gateways were installed to capture critical data, such as water temperatures.
- Centralised Platform: A secure cloud-hosted monitoring system provides a single point for data collection, processing, and analysis.
- Custom Analytics: New rules were developed to align with HSE’s Approved Code of Practice (ACOP L8), ensuring compliance and highlighting non-conformities.
- Site Dashboards: Custom dashboards enabled facility managers and school staff to have easy access to real-time data.
- Automated Reporting: Consistent and detailed reports were generated, reducing manual errors and providing actionable insights.
Outcomes and Benefits
The implementation of Tyrrell Analytics delivered numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Monitoring: Continuous data collection and automated alerts ensured swift responses to potential risks.
- Improved Compliance: The platform facilitated adherence to ACOP L8 standards, demonstrating a commitment to occupant safety.
- Efficient Reporting: Automated reports offered consistent, accurate, and timely insights, significantly reducing labour requirements.
- Customisation and Flexibility: The platform supported varied BMS systems and enabled the integration of additional monitoring tools as needed.
- Reduced Risk: Early detection of non-compliance and potential bacterial risks safeguarded occupants and mitigated health concerns.
Aquaportal Partnership
Through its collaboration with Aquaportal, Tyrrell Analytics provided schools with a consistent and robust reporting framework for Legionella compliance. By standardising data collection and processing across diverse BMS systems, the solution streamlined maintenance efforts and significantly improved public health safeguards.
The case demonstrates how Tyrrell Analytics, combined with IoT technology, addresses critical health challenges efficiently and effectively, offering a scalable solution for a variety of high-risk environments.
