EMSL’s Jason Dobranic Contributes Article to IE Connections

EMSL Analytical’s Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences, Dr. Jason Dobranic, has written a technical feature article that has been published by IE Connections. His article, “Preventing Legionellosis: ASTM and Proposed ASHRAE 188 Standards” discusses the importance of Legionella prevention and identification.

Legionella is a Gram negative, rod shaped bacterium that can cause pneumonia (Legionnaires’ Disease) or a flu like illness (Pontiac fever). It was first identified and recognized as causing disease during the outbreak that occurred in conjunction with the American Legion Convention in Philadelphia in 1976. There are over 40 species of Legionella and 18 of those can cause disease. It is estimated that the species Legionella pneumophila causes most of the infections.

Unlike some other bacteria, Legionella can survive at lower dissolved oxygen levels and is somewhat resistant to chlorine disinfection. Particular copper and silver ion concentrations can kill the bacterium. Certain plastics and organics can provide nutrients for growth. These attributes make our modern day plumbing systems a good habitat for the organism.

Dr. Dobranic states in his article, “Other developed countries and areas of the world such as the UK, EU, Japan, and Australia have regulations in place concerning Legionella and for good reason. Legionellosis can be prevented or the risk at least significantly reduced if we design, construct, and maintain our building water systems properly. Easier said than done for sure but using the ASTM and proposed ASHRAE 188 standards will help move us in the right direction.”

To view Dr. Jason Dobranic’s full article, visit: http://ieconnections.com/preventing-legionellosis-astm-and-proposed-ashrae-standards-p342-95.htm

EMSL offers both traditional culture methods for detecting Legionella as well as rapid PCR testing services that can provide results in just a few hours instead of days to identify this pathogen. These PCR services are available for Legionella pneumophila and for a broad range of 50 Legionella species.

To learn more about PCR testing for Legionella or other microbial contaminants and pathogens, please contact EMSL Analytical at www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@emsl.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com