UNDERSTANDING THE HIDDEN RISKS FROM LEGIONELLA
If you are an employer, or someone in control of premises, (including landlords of residential property) you have a legal duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of your employee’s or tenants. Duty holders must also ensure that any other people who may be affected by work activities or the running of their building(s) are not exposed to risks to their health and safety. This duty of care extends to preventing or controlling the risk associated with legionella bacteria, some of which can cause a potentially fatal form of pneumonia called Legionnaires’ disease.
Legionella are water borne bacteria which, given the right conditions, can proliferate to infectious levels in man-made systems such as hot and cold water services, cooling towers and spa pools. Legionnaires’ disease is normally contracted by inhaling small droplets of water (aerosols) that contain legionella bacteria. This means that any water system that creates a spray or aerosol carries an increased risk.
If you are a duty holder as defined in Section 4 of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 the first step towards managing the danger posed by legionella bacteria is to carry out a risk assessment at your premises. This assessment must be undertaken by a competent person.
We have a wealth of experience in carrying out legionella risk assessments in accordance with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice (ACoP L8) and BS 8580-1:2019 and provide a nationwide service. We also provide assistance in developing written schemes for control, bespoke training packages and water sampling and analysis. To help your business comply with current legislation, avoid prosecution and keep the people using your premises safe. Contact us today for a free quotation.
