Reduce your organisation’s risk of legionella
Legionella Risk Assessments
Delivering robust legionella risk assessments in line with current legislation
UK wide coverage
What is a legionella risk assessment?
A Legionella risk assessment is a systematic examination of the potential risks presented by engineered water systems, and seeks to identify and assess the risks of exposure to Legionella bacteria from work activities and water systems. The findings are then used to develop actions and regimes to reduce the risk of Legionella bacteria.
Do I need a Legionella Risk Assessment?
It is a legal duty to carry out a risk assessment to identify and test whether there is a risk posed by exposure to Legionella from the hot and cold water system or any work associated with it. We offer professional Legionella Risk Assessments to help compliance with current UK Health and Safety regulations.
When should you conduct a Legionella Risk Assessment?
If you are a building manager, a landlord, or an employer, it is imperative you understand the health risks associated with Legionella and carry out a Legionella risk assessment.
Typically industry standard’s recommend assessment should be conducted every two years. However, the Approved Code of Practice L8 (ACoP L8) advises that arrangements should be made to review the LRA, “when there is reason to suspect it is no longer valid”, so the assessment should always be up to date This is particularly relevant when building occupants are categorised as high-risk (the elderly, for example), an assessment may need to be carried out even more regularly.
It is important to carry out an LRA whenever there is a change:
A change in use of the building where the specific water system is located
A change in the water system itself
A change of key personnel within the company
A change from the building being unoccupied to occupied
An update in relevant legislation
When there has been a reported case of Legionnaires’ disease
Legionella risk assessments; what are the benefits?
A Legionella risk assessment is a vital part of ensuring the safety of any water system, especially in environments where water is stored or circulated. Here are some of the key benefits of conducting a Legionella risk assessment:
1. Compliance with Legal Requirements
One of the main benefits of a Legionella risk assessment is ensuring compliance with the law. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, and the HSE’s ACOP L8 guidelines all require employers and landlords to manage and control the risk of Legionella in water systems. A properly conducted risk assessment is the first step in fulfilling this legal obligation.
2. Protection of Health and Safety
Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia, and outbreaks are often linked to poorly maintained water systems. By performing regular risk assessments, businesses can identify areas where Legionella bacteria may thrive—such as in cooling towers, water tanks, or unused pipework—and take action to reduce the risk of contamination. This proactive approach protects the health and well-being of employees, visitors, and residents.
3. Cost Savings
Identifying and mitigating Legionella risks early can prevent costly outbreaks and legal consequences. If an outbreak occurs, a business could face significant fines, legal costs, and reputational damage. Additionally, addressing risks before they escalate helps avoid costly repairs and system downtime by ensuring regular maintenance and monitoring of water systems.
Legionella risk assessments offer peace of mind by ensuring safety, compliance, and long-term cost efficiency.
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