What is Legionella?

Legionella is a collective term for diseases caused by legionella bacteria, the most serious being Legionnaires’ disease. Legionella bacteria are widespread in natural water systems. However, outbreaks of the illness occur most often from exposure to legionella growing in man made systems where water is maintained at a high temperature, encouraging bacteria growth. This can include, cooling towers, evaporating condensers, hot and cold water systems, pools and all sorts of building both domestic and commercial.

Legionnaires’ disease is a real risk and companies need to take health and safety duties to their employees and others seriously. Failing to reduce the risk of Legionnaires’ disease from water systems can lead to large fines.

By law, an organisation is responsible for the water systems and they should determine the level of associated risk posed. This is particularly important where more vulnerable persons may be present, e.g. in social housing.

How can IOM help?

We can provide appropriate legionella assessments that include identifying and assessing sources of risk; preparing a scheme to prevent or control risk; a review of the water systems, and implementing, awareness training for workers and finally managing and monitoring the precautionary measures.

• L8 compliant Legionella risk assessments
• Legionella surveys
• Legionella management policy
• Water testing
• Awareness and management training

For more advice, or to speak to an Occupational Hygienist to arrange legionella testing complete the quick quote form below.