Legionella Risk Assessment
| Legionella Risk Assessment |
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Landlords of residential accommodation have responsibilities for combating Legionnaires' disease. Health & Safety legislation requires that landlords carry out risk assessments for the Legionella bacteria which cause Legionnaires' disease and thereafter maintain control measures to minimise the risk. Most rented properties will be low risk, but it's important that risk assessments are carried out and control measures are introduced. 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. The disease 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 low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between 20 - 45 degrees celsius if the conditions are right. They are killed by high temperatures at 60 degrees celsius or above. What's changed? In November 2015, the Health & Safety Executive issued a revised version of their Approved Code of Practice, "Legionnaires' disease: the control of legionella bacteria in water systems" (L8) which sets out guidelines and legal requirements for employers and duty holders in managing and minimising the risks associated with legionella within all water systems. The requirement to manage this risk now also extends to landlords and letting agents, regardless of the size and complexity of the hot and cold water system. Risk Assessments Landlords are under a duty to ensure that the risk of exposure to tenants, residents and visitors by Legionella is properly assessed and controlled. For most residential settings, the risk assessment may well show that the risks are low so long as simple control measures are followed. Provided that the risk assessment shows that the risk is insignificant and the control measures are being properly managed, no further action may be required. What are we doing? We have made arrangements with an appropriate contractor to carry out the required testing, risk assessment and prevention during the same visit as the current annual gas safety check. This will also include tenant education where appropriate. By making this a multi-agenda visit, we've ensured the appointment is as efficient as possible to minimise the cost to you as landlord. This practice was made standard by AMRP from 1st July 2015 alongside all gas safety visits. Along with other compliance requirements, this ensures that you as owner are removed from managing the compliance process, and that your duty has been fulfilled. Further reading For more information about Legionella Risk Assessments, visit: |
