Anyone can catch the disease.  However, the middle aged, elderly and those with poor immune systems are more likely to become infected.

How is it contracted?

The disease is contracted by inhaling small droplets of water containing the Legionella bacteria.  For instance, it can be from the air, by drinking infected water, or from another infected person.

The presence is more likely in large systems such as cooling towers, air conditioning systems and whirlpool spas.  However, legionella bacteria can also multiply in the water systems in residential properties.

Showers, boilers and other smaller tanks however, may still support the growth and proliferation of legionella organisms. In multi-occupied buildings, there is often inadequate pressure from mains water to supply all dwellings, so water may be stored. This could be in a header tank at the top of the block or even tanks at a lower level, with booster pumps to supply water to the units. Any such tank presents potential places for the bacteria to grow.

Legionella Risk Assessments

Firstly, we will send a qualified and experienced legionella risk assessor to your premises. We will need to meet with the building manager or responsible person.

Secondly, an inspection of any previous legionella risk assessment and monitoring log book will be done.

Thirdly, the assessor will inspect all of the water system(s) in full.  This will involve the inspection of mains cold water supplies, cold water tanks, water heaters, water features, heating systems and all pipework feeding your taps, baths, sinks, showers and outlets. Temperatures will need to be tested from as many outlets as possible, photographs taken of general observations, and anything considered to be a risk. We commonly identify risks such as dirt and debris in the system, infrequently used outlets and temperatures out of range.

Once completed, we will send you your risk assessment report along with any recommendations.

Legionella Risk Assessments