Legionella is water borne bacteria which, if allowed to exist in water systems and given the conditions to thrive, present a significant health risk, which is potentially fatal.

The risk from legionella bacteria is especially high to vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or sick.

Residential blocks of flats have a legal health and safety duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to those working, living or using the building to protect against the risk of legionella.

Specifically, Residents Management Companies, Landlords and Managing Agents are expected to be aware of L8, the Approved Code of Practice, “Legionnaires disease: Control of legionella bacteria in water systems”.

L8 recommends that regular routine testing for legionella be carried out.

For Property Managers areas of concern are:-

1. Where water has been stagnant for a period of time, for example an empty property.

2. Where there are facilities, for example spa baths , showers or jacuzzi’s for the communal use of all flat and apartment owners

3. Where properties have cooling towers.

4. Older and larger blocks of flats which may have complicated plumbing or may have been added to or replaced at various stages.

To comply with current legislation you will need to:-

• Appoint a person to be responsible.
• Complete a risk assessment to check the water system and determine the risks.
• If risks are determined a program to cleanse and disinfect the water system should be devised.

Following the above procedure ongoing water samples can be tested providing proof that your water remains free from legionella.

Each of the above stages should be documented.

Symptoms of legionella starts quickly, ranging from a mild cough and fever to stupor, respiratory failure and multi-organ failure.

www.flat-living.co.uk has teamed up with Bureau Veritas to provide Legionellosis Testing.