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Office buildings

Office blocks, apartments and government buildings with domestic hot and/or cold water systems or cooling towers are susceptible to Legionella bacteria. As the owner, manager, administrator or facility engineer dealing with controllable environmental factors, you are responsible for the overall safety and wellness of the building occupants.

Cooling towers have long been thought to be a major source of Legionella in offices and buildings of multiple occupancy; the installations below are all potential sources:

• Water storage tanks
• Hot water heaters
• Hot water piping system
• Showers and taps
• Ornamental fountains and decorative water features
• Water coolers, particularly those with built-in water heaters

Numerous Legionella outbreaks and deaths have been related to the domestic hot water and potable water system. This is especially true for older facilities with elaborate domestic hot water systems. By becoming pro-active in your water treatment program, you can minimize possible health issues.

Helping managers of office blocks and government buildings comply with ACoP L8 for the control of Legionella bacteria in water systems is AquaCare Water Hygiene Services’ primary objective.

Useful documents

HSE Guide: Legionnaire's disease - a guide
for employers - HERE

 

Legionella is contracted by a person inhaling contaminated water droplets in aerosol form. The increasing inclusion of showers in the workplace increases this risk. However, many people ask how it is possible to contract Legionella in a building without a shower. Studies suggest the most probable cause is "water choking".

Water choking occurs when a person splashes water on their face, perhaps inhaling small water droplets. Infection occurs when Legionella-infected water droplets make their way into the unsuspecting person's respiratory tract. This can happen in a variety of locations, including showers, washrooms, kitchen sinks, and even public potable water fountains.

Self-employed/contractor/freelance

It is worth remembering that self-employed and freelance staff under your control and direction, and contractors such as cleaners working on your premises, are also your employee for health and safety purposes.