Any questions?
Here are the most common questions relating to managing legionella control, if you have any questions, you can book a call with us to see how we can help.
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Legionella is a type of bacteria that can cause Legionnaires' disease, a severe pneumonia-like illness. It thrives in warm water environments, such as hot tubs, cooling towers, and poorly maintained water tanks.
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Legionella bacteria spread through inhalation of aerosolised water droplets containing the bacteria. This can occur from showers, faucets, cooling towers, and other water systems where water is dispersed into the air.
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Symptoms typically include cough, shortness of breath, high fever, muscle aches, and headaches. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia and even be life-threatening, especially for those with weakened immune systems.
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To prevent Legionella growth, it's essential to:
Regularly clean and disinfect water tanks.
Maintain proper water temperature (below 20°C or above 60°C).
Ensure good water circulation and avoid stagnation.
Conduct routine inspections and testing for Legionella.
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Water tanks should generally be cleaned and disinfected at least once a year. However, the frequency may vary based on usage, water quality, and specific regulations in your area.
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Regulations vary by region, but many jurisdictions require regular risk assessments, maintenance of water systems, and documentation of cleaning and testing for Legionella to ensure public health safety.
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If Legionella is detected, immediate action is required. This typically involves cleaning and disinfecting the affected system, conducting follow-up testing, and implementing measures to prevent future growth. https://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/legionella-landlords-responsibilities.htm
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Professional water management ensures that systems are properly maintained, reducing the risk of Legionella growth. Experts can provide the necessary cleaning, testing, and compliance documentation to keep your water systems safe.
You can find more detailed guidance on your duties in the Approved Code of Practice and guidance on regulations
Legionnaires' disease: The control of legionella bacteria in water systems (L8).