There are specific legal requirements for controlling legionella, applying to:
“any undertaking involving a work activity and to premises controlled in connection with a trade, business or other undertaking where water is used or stored…”
These include:
•Local authorities
•Universities and colleges
•Housing providers
•Hotels, guest houses, hostels
•Caravan and campsites
•Offices
•Factories
•Shops
•Restaurants
•Leisure centres and health clubs
In 2001 the Health and Safety Executive produced their revised Approved Code of Practice (L8) which gives specific guidance on how to control legionella to ensure that you comply with the relevant legislation, especially:
•Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
•Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999
•Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
The requirements set out in the ACOP are simple. Initially a risk assessment must be undertaken by a competent person or organisation to identify if a risk of exposure to legionella is present. The outcome of the risk assessment will determine the areas of your water systems that are at risk and the extent of control which must be taken.
To ensure you get the help from a competent person or organisation for legionella control you should start your search with the Legionella Control Association, a national association recognised and supported by the HSE and even identified in the ACOP. The Association was established to give buyers of legionella control services access to organisations who are competent and bound to providing good standards of service. There are currently only around 100 Category 1 members of the LCA, of which Quest Environmental Solutions is the only one based in Cornwall. To find out more about the Legionella Control Association visit the LCA’s website: www.conduct.org.uk
Quest Environmental Solutions are able to provide cost effective legionella control packages to suit your requirements and most importantly your budget. From risk assessments to shower head cleaning, we are able to tailor our services to meet your needs. We will even take complete ownership of legionella control at your premises to allow you to be free from worry and to concentrate on other matters to hand.
Contact us for a free initial consultation anywhere in Cornwall or Devon…
[ Contact Quest Environmental Services ]
The Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems – Approved Code of Practice and Guidance
All work that QES undertaken to control legionella complies with the requirements of the ACOP as a minimum
Written Scheme
Adequate controls must be in place and be regularly monitored to ensure legionella bacteria is controlled in water systems
Regular Maintenance
Water systems must be well maintained and free from contaminants which could increase the risk of bacteria proliferation