Legionella is a water-borne bacteria which can lead to serious illnesses such as pneumonia when it is inhaled, usually as water droplets/vapour. It also cause infections which lead to Legionnaires’ Disease which is a more dangerous form of pneumonia. The bacterial thrives in temperatures between 20Oc – 45 Oc.
Who is most at risk from Legionella?
Legionellosis disease can affect anybody. However, the risk is more significant the older you are. Those at the greatest risk are;
- Smokers & people with respiratory diseases
- Diabetics
- Heavy drinkers
- Those with heart, lung or kidney disease
- Over 45’s
- Those with weak immune systems
Legionella bacteria can form in any artificial water system in your house, such as your shower or hot water cylinder, without you realising. As fully qualified Legionella Risk Assessors, we are able to carry out a risk assessment and produce a report on potential problems and possible resolutions for you. Under normal conditions it is recommended that you have an assessment every 2 years at minimum. As a landlord, you are responsible for ensuring that the occupiers of your properties are not at risk of Legionella. A risk assessment will give you that piece of mind that this is the case.