The identification and assessment of the foreseeable risk caused by Legionella Bacteria are covered by: 

 

1.      Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 - Regulation 6

2.      Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (Regulation 3)

3.      Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (Sections 2, 3 and 4)

 

Statute requires the 'responsible person' to assess the risk of exposure to Legionella Bacteria from work activity and / or water systems on the premises. Water systems include:

·          Water systems incorporating a cooling tower

·          Water systems incorporating an evaporative condenser

·          Hot and cold water systems

·          Other systems containing water likely to exceed 20° C and produce spray or aerosol during operation 

Consideration should also be given to harmful bacteria in storm water.  In simple terms you need to identify the foreseeable risk if you are the 'responsible person'.

The 'responsible person' must assess the risks to staff, residents or members of the public and take suitable precautions to reduce these to a minimum. As an employer in control of the premises, you must:

 

·          Identify and assess sources of legionella bacteria risk

·          Prepare a course of action for preventing or controlling this risk

·          Implement and manage this control scheme

·          Appoint a person responsible for legionella testing, risk analysis and management

·          Keep records and check that precautionary systems are effective

·          If appropriate, notify the local authority that you have a cooling tower(s) on site

 

Findings should be recorded and remedial actions prescribed relative to the level of risk they pose.

 

Once the risk assessment has been completed, periodic review of revisions to both circumstances and the findings are required (minimum annual review) to check and update this process.