Microbial infection is responsible for hundreds of thousands of illnesses and thousands of deaths each year in the United States. Frequent outbreaks of disease have been linked to food handling and processing (Salmonella, Shigella, and E. Coli); drinking and swimming pool water (Giardia and Cryptosporidium); and places with HVAC-system ducts, including cruise ships as well as hotels, hospitals and office buildings (Legionella).
On a cruise ship at sea, any kind of microbial-infection outbreak can affect passengers and crew alike in what’s essentially a closed environment. In addition to putting everyone’s health at risk, it could impair safety at sea while making everyone’s lives miserable.
Today, we have the technology to keep potable water, the water in the growing number of recreational water facilities, and all forms of waste water well within the limits set by all international public health agencies. In most cases, they can be installed during routine maintenance. We believe those water treatment systems are a good investment, and we can help you select the ones that are right for your needs.
A related major problem is biofilm. When certain microbes reach a surface, they attach themselves by producing polysaccharides (similar to a spider web in design and function). This material is sticky and very difficult to remove. Channels are formed in this film, through which water flows. The sticky web catches nutrients and other microbes that pass by, providing food and a quick growth mechanism.
Problems associated with biofilm growth include:
Fouled heat exchange equipment in cooling systems
- Increased corrosion rates on equipment
- Formation of a habitat for pathogenic organisms which after sloughing off can lead to contamination of food/packing process or water for human consumption.
This diagram shows how the build-up forms.
Even if all waterborne microorganisms are eliminated, regrowth quickly occurs due to bacterial communities and nutrients in the biofilm.
The sample picture of biofilm in a PVC pipe and the middle image shows how biofilm growth and eventual slough-age occurs at the pipe surface.
The Global Marine Group has smart, sustainable solutions to prevent and treat the buildup of biofilm. You can see them on our Products pages and then contact us to answer your questions and set up a program to deliver the right products when you need them and where you need them.