Water Testing

Water testing for microbial contamination

The quality of water for manufacturing cosmetics is very important. It is often the last thing which is considered when contamination is found in the finished product. Tap water in the UK is of the highest standard in terms of its microbiological quality, however, once it is sent around long pipe runs and stored in tanks with very little movement a monster can be created.

Tap water is not sterile, nor does it need to be so there will always be living organisms swimming around. Once the water is in a manufacturing environment where there is very little movement and long periods of it standing in pipes, storage tanks, filter housings etc. there are enough nutrients for the bugs to multiply. This process begins after 20 minutes, each cell divides, so in a very short time one cell becomes millions of cells. Eventually if this is not treated and controlled a biofilm will form, the consequence of this is sporadic high levels of contamination in your finished product.

Preventing Legionella

Stagnant water systems can also support the growth of legionella, which can be released in an aerosol spray, resulting in respiratory infection if inhaled. To avoid this the water system should be flushed on a weekly basis. If this is not the case and your premises has been closed for more than one month, the following measures are recommended:

• Flush out the system – please refer to the guidance to understand how to do this without risk of infection
• Disinfect to 50ppm of free chlorine or equivalent biocide
• Run water heated to 60C through the whole water system
• Carry out a risk assessment

Our experienced team can perform water testing to ensure microbiologically safe drugs and cosmetics. We can also test pool and spa water, plus pharmaceutical grade waters. For more information about our water testing services, please contact us.