LEGIONELLA RISK ASSESSMENTS
Employers, landlords and others responsible for premises have a duty to identify, assess and manage potential exposure to Legionella bacteria.
A Legionella risk assessment examines how your water system operates, identifies conditions that could encourage bacterial growth and establishes whether suitable control measures are in place.
Site Assessment & System Inspection
Coordination of LCA Approved and registered risk assessments, through competent specialist providers following guidance in line with ACOP L8
Clear Reporting and Prioritised Actions
Following the assessment, you will receive a clear written report explaining the condition of the system, the risks identified and the actions recommended.
Reviewing your Risk Assessment
Regular review of risk assessments and best practice guidance.
SITE ASSESSMENT & SYSTEM INSPECTION
During a Risk Assessment, The assessor will consider factors that could allow Legionella bacteria to grow or expose people to contamination.
This includes:
- Water temperatures that may encourage bacterial growth
- Stored or recirculated water
- Low-use outlets, dead legs and areas of stagnation
- Scale, sediment, corrosion and biofilm
- Showers and other outlets capable of producing aerosols
- The condition and maintenance of the water system
- Existing temperature monitoring, flushing and cleaning arrangements
- Based on what the property is used for, assessing risk based on people who may be particularly susceptible due to age, illness or a weakened immune system
Existing management responsibilities, record keeping and control measures will also be reviewed.
CLEAR REPORTING & PRIORITISED ACTIONS
Following the assessment, you will receive a clear written report explaining the condition of the system, the risks identified and the actions recommended.
The report may include:
- A description of the water system
- Details of the assessment scope
- Existing management arrangements and responsibilities
- Identified sources of risk
- Current control measures
- Photographic evidence
- A schematic drawing of the water system
- Prioritised recommendations
- Suggested monitoring, inspection and maintenance measures
- Recommended review arrangements
The findings can also be used to support the preparation or updating of your written control scheme and ongoing water hygiene programme.
REVIEWING YOUR RISK ASSESSMENT
A Legionella risk assessment does not have one universal expiry date. It should be reviewed regularly and whenever there is reason to believe it may no longer reflect the premises or water system. Best practice guidance is to have an updated risk assessment every two years.
A review may be required sooner following:
- Changes to the water system or building layout
- Changes in how the premises are used or occupied
- Extended periods of vacancy or reduced water use
- Changes to management responsibilities
- Monitoring results that indicate controls are not working effectively
- Significant remedial works or system alterations
- New information about the people who may be exposed
Reviews help ensure that the identified risks, control measures and responsibilities remain accurate and effective.
