LEGIONNAIRES' RISK ASSESSMENTS

What is Legionnaire’s Disease?

 

Legionellosis is a collective term for diseases caused by legionella bacteria. The most serious is Legionnaires’ Disease, together with the similar, but less serious, conditions of Pontiac Fever and Lochgoilhead Fever.  

 

Legionnaires’ Disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia and everyone is susceptible to infection. The risk increases with age, but some people are at higher risk, such as: people over 45 years of age; smokers and heavy drinkers; people suffering from chronic respiratory or kidney disease, diabetes, lung and heart disease; or anyone with an impaired immune system.  

 

The bacterium Legionella Pneumophila and related bacteria are common in natural water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs. They may also be found in man-made water systems, such as hot and cold water systems in buildings and spa pools. If conditions are favourable, the bacteria may multiply, increasing the risks of legionnaires’ disease, and it is therefore important to control the risks by introducing appropriate measures.  

 

Legionnaires’ Disease is normally contracted by inhaling small droplets of water (aerosols) suspended in the air, which is why showers and spa baths are higher risk.

 

The need for a Risk Assessment

 

There are various legal requirements which require Landlords, Agents and Building owners to complete a risk assessment. All systems require a risk assessment, but not all systems will require elaborate control measures. A simple risk assessment conducted by a qualified Assessor may show that the risks are low, being properly managed, and comply with the law. It is important to review your assessment regularly in case of any changes in your system, and specifically if there is any reason to suspect it is no longer valid.

 

How do I arrange for a Risk Assessment to be completed?

 

Talk Green have in-house, fully qualified Legionnaires’ Risk Assessors and we can arrange an assessment at a convenient time. Once an assessment has been completed, a Certificate of Compliance is provided which is valid, and kept on record, for a period of 2 years.