In this post we'll cover legionella risk management as well as looking at how to identify and also avoid it. With a brief look at the implications of not appropriately preventing it too. If you'd like to see our Legionella Management service click here.
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
A severe form of pneumonia known as Legionnaires' disease is brought on by the Legionella bacteria. The lungs' irritation is brought on by the bacterium. The illness has the potential to be fatal or cause long-term health issues.
Where can you find legionella?
In addition to entering man-made water systems, Legionella bacteria can be found in natural water sources.
Legionella bacteria's spread
While low Legionella levels are typically not a reason for alarm, anyone who comes into contact with a water source that has reached hazardous levels is at risk. A risk exists with any technology that emits a spray or mist that causes water droplets to be inhaled.
Can you be infected with legionella by drinking water?
Legionnaires' illness can only manifest in the lungs because it is brought on by inhaling contaminated water droplets.
Can air conditioning cause Legionella?
Only if your air conditioning employs a water-based cooling system that later becomes contaminated with the Legionella bacteria, or if the system has been contaminated from somewhere else in the building could you be exposed to Legionella through air conditioning.
Who has the highest chance of contracting Legionnaires' Disease?
Some persons are more susceptible to contracting Legionnaires' disease than others when exposed to Legionella.
The disease's initial signs and symptoms include:
· Muscle pain
· Tiredness
· Headaches
· Wet cough
Usually, these flu-like symptoms appear two to ten days after being exposed to Legionella bacteria.
As the illness worsens, further signs and symptoms of pneumonia start to emerge:
· Green mucus
· Breathing difficulty
How can you best avoid it?
In the UK, it is required by law for anybody in charge of a facility, including landlords and employers, to be aware of the health dangers posed by Legionella. It's up to you to take the necessary steps to lower the likelihood of coming into contact with Legionella.
You need to ensure that you:
- Identify, evaluate, and manage all sources of risk.
- Avert or manage any hazards
- Maintain accurate records of evaluation, testing, and control, and carry out any other responsibilities you may have.
Is the measurement of water temperature required by law?
It is not a legal requirement to test water temperature, but it is your responsibility to reduce the danger of Legionella. The method for achieving this is to test the water's temperature, we recommend consulting a professional to do so.
We’d love to support you on your journey to enhancing and protecting your workplace, remotely - contact us today if you’d like to start that journey: info@promptusltd.com | 01604 696113.
