Updated Regulations for Cooling Towers and Warm Water Systems
The South Australian Public Health (Legionella) Regulations have been revised for 2026, with changes that affect every facility operating cooling towers, warm water systems, or spa pools.
These updates tighten testing frequency, introduce mandatory risk management plans, and increase penalties for non-compliance. If you manage a building with any of these systems, this affects you.
Key Changes Taking Effect
Increased Testing Frequency
- Cooling towers now require monthly microbiological testing (previously quarterly for low-risk systems)
- Warm water systems in healthcare and aged care must be tested fortnightly
- Results must be reported to SA Health within 48 hours of receipt from the laboratory
Mandatory Risk Management Plans
All facilities with cooling towers must have a documented risk management plan that includes:
- System schematic and water flow diagrams
- Chemical treatment program details
- Cleaning and maintenance schedules
- Emergency response procedures for elevated Legionella counts
- Named responsible persons and their qualifications
Drift Eliminator Standards
New minimum performance standards for drift eliminators on cooling towers come into effect from 1 July 2026. Older towers may need retrofitting or replacement to meet the updated drift rate requirements.
What This Means for Facility Managers
- Audit your current systems — identify every cooling tower, evaporative condenser, and warm water system on your sites
- Review your testing contracts — ensure your laboratory provider can meet the new turnaround and reporting requirements
- Update risk management plans — or create them if you don't have documented plans in place
- Budget for drift eliminator upgrades — get quotes now to avoid the rush before the July deadline
How CHS Can Help
Our water treatment service covers the full compliance chain: system audits, risk management plan development, scheduled chemical treatment, microbiological testing coordination, and drift eliminator upgrades.
Don't wait until June. Facilities that start their compliance review now will have time to address any issues before the new regulations take effect.
Contact our team to arrange a compliance review of your water treatment systems.