What is Legionella bacteria?

Legionella bacteria are common in natural water courses such as rivers and ponds. Since Legionella is widespread in the environment, they may contaminate and grow in other water systems such as cooling towers and hot and cold water services. They survive low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between 20°C – 45°C if the conditions are right, eg if a supply of nutrients such as rust, sludge, scale and other bacteria. They are killed by high temperatures.

On average there are approximately 250 reported cases of Legionnaires’ Disease each year in the United Kingdom. Infection with Legionella bacteria can be fatal in approximately 12% of reported cases.

Infections which originate in the UK are often sporadic, for which no source or infection is traced. However clusters of cases also occur and outbreaks have been associated with cooling tower systems and hot and cold water systems in factories, hotels, hospitals and other establishments.

The HSE’s Approved Code of Practice L8 ‘The control of Legionella bacteria in water systems’ forms the backbone of our control solutions and all data recording is provided to show compliance with this code.

The combination of our experienced staff and pro-active management style ensures that Legionella control systems are effective, giving our clients confidence that the risks are minimised and that water systems comply with legislation.

You can find out more on the following websites:

• www.legionellacontrol.org.uk,
• www.wras.co.uk,
• www.chas.co.uk,
• www.constructionline.co.uk,
• www.hse.gov.uk,
• www.wmsoc.org.uk