Legionella: what you need to know

  From interpreting complex schematics drawings to determining the risks inherent in your systems, there will be times where you need to seek further help to see your water systems in a new light. AEC have over 25 years’ experience in Legionella management. From conducting risk assessments of complex systems to carrying out disinfection and regular reinspections, you can rely on expert support at every stage of your management journey to keep your water systems compliant and safe.

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Sampling water can tell you if your system is contaminated or in need of maintenance.It's a legal requirement to take regular samples in many industrial and medical water systems.

Your duty to manage Legionella starts with the risk assessment.If you conduct a full risk assessment, you will have the best idea of what you need to do to prevent Legionella bacteria from growing - not just react to it.

Legionella bacteria attack the respiratory system.This means that you are more likely to contract it by breathing in contaminated water droplets and not likely to get it by drinking contaminated water.

Dead legs and blind ends are a Legionella risk.Even in unused pipework, bacterial growth can feed back into the rest of the water system.

Small amounts of Legionella bacteria can find their way into our building's water system - no matter how well we may treat the water. In fact, small amounts of Legionella bacteria may only present a low risk to human health..

But, it is a warning sign to take action. If your system can harbour one species of Legionella, it shows that more potent varieties can develop in it, too.

But, it is most effectively used after you have implemented control measures: this makes sure that what you are doing to prevent it from returning has worked.

If your water system or your building occupancy has changed - so has the way you use water. This means you need to carry out a new risk assessment.

This is one case where chlorine disinfection of the water system isn't sufficient - regular flushing and reinspection are also recommended.

This is why shower heads, fire suppression systems and even hot tubs that create 'mist' are some of your highest-risk outlets.