Effective Waterborne Pathogen Control

Chris Nancrede, EIT, ASSE 12080, is a recognized subject matter expert in waterborne pathogen control and the patent holder of a high-efficiency water softener designed to minimize Legionella growth. He’s spent over 15 years diagnosing and solving Legionella problems in complex building water systems. A degreed mechanical engineer, Chris is the founder and president of Legionella Control Systems, Inc., a firm dedicated to the prevention and control of waterborne pathogens including Legionella, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), Pseudomonas and other waterborne pathogens. His background in industrial water treatment and purification paired with strong engineering fundamentals underpins a command of both the chemical and non-chemical approaches to remediation and long-term mitigation. Chris is often sought out specifically for the cases other firms cannot resolve. He also sits on the AAMI ST95 sterilization standards committee.

Chris built Legionella Control Systems as an independent consulting organization, deliberately free of proprietary product ties. That independence is what lets him work as a domain expert rather than a salesman, delivering objective, engineered solutions built around each client's unique facilities rather than around a product lines. As the senior engineer on every engagement, his work spans on-site engineering evaluations, water management programs, testing, and control strategies, and in every case the recommendation is driven by what the building needs, not a sales agenda.

His expertise has been trusted by a broad spectrum of organizations, including Fortune 500 companies such as Anheuser-Busch, Chrysler, Ford, PepsiCo, Eli Lilly, and Roche; healthcare systems including VA Hospitals, Northwestern Medicine, and IU Health; and long-term care providers including Little Sisters of the Poor. That track record across some of the most demanding water systems in the country has established him as a leading authority for some of the most demanding water challenges.

Education

MBA, Finance and IT
Vanderbilt University - Owen Graduate School of Management
1999 - 2001

Engineer's Degree, Mechanical Engineering
1991 - 1995

Registrations

Engineer in Training (EIT) - 1995
ASSE 12080

Patent holder: high-efficiency water softener to reduce Legionella proliferation

Select Project Examples

Northwestern Health
Chicago, Illinois
Onsite Risk Assessment
Automatic Flushing Systems

Ness Hospital
Ness City, Kentucky
Legionella Risk Assessment
Water Management Plan Creation
Legionella Remediation
Ongoing Legionalla Testing

Large Hospital
Las Vegas, Nevada
Onsite Risk Assessment
Designed Ultrapure Water Systems

Large Correction Facility
Indianapolis, Indiana
Onsite Risk Assessment
Initiated Water Management Program
Conducted Validation Tests
Implemented Disinfection System
Maintained Filtered Shower Heads

Condominium / Commercial Complex
Vail, Colorado
Onsite Risk Assessment
Water Management Plan Creation
Legionella Remediation
Ongoing Legionalla Testing

IU Health
Indianapolis, IN
Designed Water Softener Systems ($4B Hosptial Project)

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Areas of Expertise

Waterborne Pathogen Control

Secondary Disinfection

Water Management Plans

Risk Assessments

ST108 Testing

Ultrapure Water Systems

Industrial Water Softener Systems

Industries Served

Healthcare

Manufacturing

Hospitality

Long-Term Care

Correctional

Prison

What Clients Say:

“Chris is exceptional. I had him evaluate our current water management plan and its control measures, and he pinpointed key refinements that improved our Legionella control results.”

Kurt Skipper, Facilities Director at Northwestern Medicine, CDH

“I have known Chris for several years. When I faced a problem that could not be solved, he stepped in and helped us to find a solution. Thanks to his expertise and experience, we installed a system that helped our water treatment program and gave us outstanding results. As a result of the proven performance, we are now installing this system in other locations. Chris is someone you should turn to when you need an answer that is not easily found.”

Michael J. Schoewe, Director of Facilities, Palos Hospital / South Region

“When I was the CEO of a long-term/acute care facility, we sought Chris’s evaluation and recommendations for addressing a critical situation. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the best minds in healthcare engineering, and Chris’s in-depth expertise in Legionella control best practices instilled me with confidence. He proposed an innovative solution that safeguarded our patients while simultaneously minimizing risks to our staff and the facility. Even if you have a well-thought-out plan in mind, I highly recommend consulting Chris. His fresh and cutting-edge insights will provide you with peace of mind, ensuring that you’re making the right decision.”

Aaron Kuehn, Former CEO at Ness County Hospital

“I first met Chris when he helped us design a large softener and brine system at a VA facility a few years ago. Initially, I was impressed by his extensive knowledge of water systems. However, I later discovered that his expertise stems from his third-generation lineage as a water system expert. Since then, I have consistently sought Chris’s professional advice and insights on water systems and Legionella control. I firmly believe that success lies in building a network of knowledgeable individuals, and Chris is one of those exceptional minds you should tap into for anything related to water, especially when it comes to Legionella. His expertise will lead you to success.”

Andy Myers, PE, Senior Partner, CMTA