UK
The Health & Safety Executive released a bulletin this week alerting to the risk of Legionella in premises that are newly opening or re-opening and starting up in standing water.
It said: “Recent cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the Midlands are a powerful reminder that employers, the self-employed and people in control of premises (such as landlords) have a duty to identify and control risks associated with legionella.
“If your building has been closed or had reduced occupancy during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, water system stagnation can occur due to lack of use, increasing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease.”
It advises businesses to review their risk assessment and manage the legionella risks when:
• Reinstating a water system or starting to use it again
• Restarting some types of air conditioning units
• If the water system is still used regularly, maintain the appropriate measures to prevent legionella growth.
For detailed guidance on managing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease during the pandemic visit the HSE website.
Read about the outbreak in the Midlands.
