As a landlord with multiple properties or a commercial property that uses complex water systems it’s important to regularly carry out legionella risk assessments. This is not only a legal requirement but will help you keep your tenants and employees safe from the potentially serious disease, Legionnaires’ disease.

For most residential landlords this is a simple process that can be handled independently but it’s worth getting an expert in to make sure it’s done properly. For larger commercial buildings, businesses and organisations that operate complex water systems it can be a more involved task. This is where it’s often best to enlist the help of an experienced water management specialist who has a great understanding of both health and safety requirements and risk assessment methodologies.

Conducting Legionella Risk Assessments: Best Practices and Guidelines

The risk assessment itself should be treated as a living document and should be reviewed if there are significant changes to the building or its water systems. This includes alterations being made, if a water system is found to be at high risk of Legionella or if water treatment programs fail. It’s also a good idea to review the risk assessment if key personnel in the administration of the building or its water systems change.

It’s also recommended to sample water for Legionella at least quarterly, especially if you have an open system (i.e cooling towers, evaporative condensers, spa pools) or a higher-risk situation. This will indicate the effectiveness of the control regime and ensure that water samples meet legionella monitoring requirements.