Risk assessments for Legionnaires' disease required in rented properties
A recent change in Health and Safety Executive (HSE) legislation means landlords must now take steps to control the risk of Legionnaires' disease in their properties.
Previously, residential lettings were exempt due to their size, but the recent change means every property must now undergo a risk assessment for Legionella, which anybody can complete so long as they are competent.
What is Legionnaires' disease?
Legionnaires' disease is a pneumonia-like illness caused by the Legionella bacteria, and can be fatal. The infection is caused by breathing in small droplets of water contaminated by the bacteria, but cannot be passed from one person to another.
Legionella bacteria are found in the natural environment and may contaminate and grow in water systems, including domestic hot and cold water systems. They survive in low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between 20-45°C, if the conditions are right. They are killed by high temperatures of 60°C or above.
The risk assessment process
The assessment should include a site survey of the water system, and the assessor should understand the water systems and any associated equipment in the property in order to conclude whether the system is likely to create a risk from exposure to Legionella.
It’s important to identify whether:
- water is stored or re-circulated as part of the system (particular areas of risk include water tanks, dead legs caused by T-piece plumbing systems, shower heads and/or long runs of pipe work containing warm water)
- the water temperature in some or all parts of the system is between 20 and 45°C (hot water should be stored in tanks at 60°C)
- there are any sources of nutrients, such as rust, sludge, scale or organic matters
- bacteria is likely to be encourage to multiply in the present conditions
- it is possible for water droplets to be produced and whether they could be dispersed if they are, e.g. through showers
- there are parts of the system that are used infrequently, e.g. guest bathrooms
- it is likely that any of the tenants, residents, visitors, etc. are more susceptible to infection due to age, health or lifestyle, as well as whether they could be exposed to any contaminated water droplets
After the risk assessment
If the assessment finds conditions for Legionella bacteria to grow, such as inadequate water temperatures or debris in water storage tanks, remedial work may be required in order to minimise the risk.
Educating tenants
It’s important that tenants are informed of the potential risk of exposure to Legionnaires’ disease and its consequences. In particular, they are to inform their landlord or lettings agent if they believe water temperatures aren’t reaching the correct levels, and ensure that shower heads are cleaned, disinfected and descaled regularly.
If you’d like CPS Homes to arrange a Legionella risk assessment on your behalf, please contact our Maintenance Department on 02920 668585, or e-mail us at maintenance@cpshomes.co.uk.
More information on Legionnaires’ disease can be found on the HSE’s website.
