Preventing Legionnaires' Disease in Recreation Facilities

New plumbing technologies help eliminate stagnant water, a key source of waterborne pathogens.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Stagnant water in plumbing systems at recreation facilities like gyms, pools, and locker rooms can expose users to serious health risks like Legionnaires' disease. Recent innovations in touchless faucets, automated shower drainage, and water management software are enabling facility managers to more effectively flush pipes and prevent bacterial growth, protecting public health.

Why it matters

Legionnaires' disease outbreaks have occurred in recreation facilities across the U.S. due to inadequate water system maintenance, posing a significant threat to public health. Proper plumbing design and water management are critical to mitigate the risks of waterborne illnesses in these high-traffic, intermittently used spaces.

The details

Stagnant water allows bacteria like Legionella to multiply and colonize biofilm in pipes, creating conditions for the bacteria to be aerosolized and inhaled by users when faucets or showers are turned on. Touchless faucets with Bluetooth-enabled flushing controls allow facility staff to remotely program automated purges to remove stagnant water. Self-draining shower systems also immediately discharge residual water after use, eliminating a prime breeding ground for Legionella.

  • In late 2025, Legionnaires' disease outbreaks were reported in Paterson, NJ, Detroit, MI, and Oakland, CA.
  • ASHRAE Standard 514, providing expanded guidelines for water management programs, was enacted in 2023.

The players

Legionella pneumonia

A type of bacteria that can cause a severe form of pneumonia known as Legionnaires' disease, which is fatal in approximately one out of every ten cases.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The leading national public health institute in the United States, which recommends that facilities implement a Water Management Program (WMP) to reduce the risk of Legionella.

ASHRAE

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, which has published standards outlining key elements of a Water Management Program, including risk assessment and control measures.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Proactive water management strategies, including automated flushing of faucets and self-draining shower systems, are essential to preventing the growth and transmission of waterborne pathogens like Legionella in recreation facilities. These technologies not only protect public health, but also save time and resources for facility maintenance teams.