Plant Inspection Services Urge Legionella Risk Assessment Vigilance

Leeds-based Plant Inspection Services are urging caution after a recent spate of Legionella cases across the UK and Ireland.

Most recently, Legionella bacteria was detected in the endoscopy and renal wards at Monklands Hospital in Lanarkshire, and earlier this summer an outbreak on Thameslink trains prompted rail workers to threaten strike action.

Legionella can be found in natural water sources such as lakes and rivers, but when this type of bacteria finds its way into man-made water systems it can remain undetected and grow to harmful levels.

The bacteria can cause Legionnaire’s disease, a potentially lethal lung infection where symptoms include a cough, fever and shortness of breath. The infection is caused by breathing in tiny droplets of water containing the bacteria.

Businesses such as hotels, restaurants, residential complexes, swimming pools and hospitals can find themselves at higher risk of Legionella contamination due to the prevalence of warm-water environments they contain.

“Legionella is usually caught in places like hotels, hospitals or offices where the bacteria has entered the water supply,” said a spokesperson for Plant Inspection Services.

“Luckily, recent cases were identified quickly as part of routine Legionella risk assessment. This highlights the importance of keeping up to date with relevant legislation and guidance.

“In order to control and manage risk from Legionella, it’s vital that you appoint a competent, independent body to identify and assess risk and any subsequent control or preventative measures. Records should be kept of all activities and findings for at least five years.”

Legionella testing can be carried out on a one-off or contract basis.

For more information, visit plantinspectionservices.co.uk.