Page 27 - BOSS Today Issue 41

DOWN TO BUSINESS – H&S BOSS Today #41

COMBATTING THE LEGION

cooling tower or water outlets) months. Ensure regular movement control of the premises, you must:
n Stores and/or re-circulates water of water in sections that are prone n Identify and assess sources of
n Is likely to contain a source of to stagnation. risk through a Legionella Risk
nutrients for the organism to grow n Keep your water systems clean. Assessment
(eg rust, sludge, scale or organic Legionella bacteria grow rapidly n Prepare a policy and procedure for
matter) where there are nutrients like preventing or controlling the risk
rust, sludge and slime. Check the n Implement and manage the
How To Avoid Legionnella Bacteria condition of water tanks, inside procedure – appoint a person to be
n Use hot or cold water instead of and out. managerially responsible
lukewarm water. Water above 60°C n Be careful in the garden. Legionella n Keep records and check that what
kills Legionella bacteria and water grows in soil, so wear gloves and has been done is effective
under 20°C keeps it from growing. handle soil in a well-ventilated area n If appropriate, notify the Local
n Keep your showers clean on site. when gardening. Standing water Authority that you have a cooling
If showers are infrequently used, in hosepipes and water butts can tower on site.
run water for five minutes before be breeding grounds for Legionella
you use them (taking care not bacteria. Contact your BPIF HS&E Adviser for further
to inhale the water). Clean and information, or if your business requires a
disinfect shower heads every three As an employer or a person in Legionella Risk Assessment to be conducted.

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