With a return to work becoming more likely following the latest Government guidance, business owners and managers are being instructed that they need to ensure that their workplace is safe to return to, with regards to reducing the likelihood of transmission of the COVID-19 virus. However, business owners and managers should not get distracted from considering other hazards that are present in the workplace. Especially those hazards that are hidden from plain sight, such as the potential for Legionella to be present within the buildings water systems.
Increased risk of Legionella in many workplaces
Since the lockdown period began at the end of March, many workplaces have been either shut completely or operating with minimal occupancy. The result of this, is that water consumption and turnover within buildings has been zero or greatly reduced. Resulting in water being sat within pipework, water tanks and hot water heaters in warm conditions stagnating, providing an ideal environment for microbes, including Legionella to survive.
This situation has created a significant increase in the likelihood of microbes being present within water systems, which in turn presents an increased risk of Legionella to people using those systems. An exposure to potentially infected water can result in people developing Legionnaires Disease or a milder form of the disease known as Pontiac Fever.
Businesses need to undertake a risk assessment of water systems
To avoid this risk and comply with the Health and Safety at Work etc Act and other legislation and guidance, the Duty Holder/Responsible Person(s) for businesses, must undertake a Legionella risk assessment of their water systems, to determine what actions may be required to ensure that ALL water systems are safe for normal use for when the building occupants return.
We can help in making sure your property is safe
If the Duty Holder or Responsible Person(s) are not competent to assess the risk presented by their water systems, Bradley Environmental can assist in making sure your property is safe for business to resume. Ideally your existing Legionella Management Plan, will cover this requirement. However, for most businesses, who never have periods of non-use or low occupancy, it is unlikely this aspect will be covered in your management plan.
Contact us for further advice
For further advice or assistance contact Bradley Environmental on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or use the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. box below.
