Legionella risk assessments - what you need to know
If you are involved in the legionella risk control programme for your organisation, especially if you are the duty holder or responsible person, you need to know that you have everything in place to comply with HSE guidance and Health & Safety Legislation.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?
To understand your responsibilities, you can access guidance documents from the HSE.
Read more about where to find the relevant information here
Legionnaires’ disease. The control of legionella bacteria in water systems (ACoP L8)
A suitable and sufficient assessment must be carried out to identify and assess the risk of exposure to legionella bacteria from work activities and water systems on the premises and any precautionary measures needed. The dutyholder is responsible for ensuring the risk assessment is carried out.
DO ALL WATER SYSTEMS NEED A RISK ASSESSMENT?
All systems require a risk assessment, however not all systems will require elaborate control measures. A simple risk assessment may show that the risks are low and being properly managed to comply with the law. In such cases, you may not need to take further action.
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO REVIEW THE RISK ASSESSMENT?
You need to review the assessment regularly and specifically when there is reason to believe that the original risk assessment may no longer be valid. You should also review management and communication procedures as appropriate.
WHO CAN CARRY OUT THE RISK ASSESSMENT?
The dutyholder must ensure that the person who carries out the risk assessment and provides advice on prevention and control of exposure must be competent to do so. They may need access to competent help and advice when carrying out the risk assessment. This source of advice may not necessarily be from within the person’s organisation but may be from a consultancy, water treatment company or a person experienced in carrying out risk assessments.
Read more about how to select a water treatment company or consultancy here
