As the summer season approaches and guest bookings increase, hospitality property owners are being strongly advised to take proactive steps to manage Legionella risks. This call to action comes amid a significant rise in Legionnaires’ disease cases across the UK.
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection caused by inhaling tiny water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria. These bacteria commonly thrive in man-made water systems like showers, taps, hot tubs, spa pools, and air conditioning units—especially where water has been left stagnant. The risk is particularly high when water temperatures range between 20°C and 45°C.
Recent government data revealed 604 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in England and Wales during 2023—the highest annual figure since 2017, which saw 488 cases.
In light of these figures, water safety experts are urging hotels, B&Bs, and holiday rental owners to take immediate steps to reduce the risk to guests. With the busy summer months underway, operators are reminded not to overlook the importance of maintaining water systems. Warm weather and underused plumbing create ideal conditions for Legionella to multiply. Preventative measures—such as system flushing, routine temperature checks, and rapid Legionella testing—can play a crucial role in protecting health and ensuring compliance.
Under UK health and safety law, those responsible for buildings—such as landlords, hoteliers, and managing agents—have a legal duty to assess and control the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria.
Rapid Legionella testing is also recommended as part of routine safety checks. These tests can detect the presence of bacteria within just 25 minutes, providing a fast and effective method for identifying potential issues before they escalate.
The steady rise in Legionnaires’ disease cases across the UK highlights the need for increased vigilance in the hospitality sector. By taking early and consistent action, operators can help prevent outbreaks, protect guests, and preserve their reputations throughout the busy travel season.
How We Can Help You
At Bradley Environmental, we are specialists in Legionella and Water Hygiene Risk Management for commercial, retail, and industrial buildings. With extensive experience, we deliver practical and cost-effective solutions to help businesses stay compliant and protect their teams and customers from the risks of Legionnaires’ disease.
To obtain a free quotation or learn more about our services and training, contact us today.
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