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With over 25 years of research on Legionella and Legionella control methods under our belts, it’s safe to say we know a thing or two about this water-borne pathogen and are committed to the continual research and control of Legionella. Therefore, we’ve put together 10 facts about Legionella to help spread awareness and instigate further discussion about the water-borne bacteria.
10 Facts About Legionella
- Legionella is a water-borne pathogen that typically multiplies between 20 and 45°C.
- Taps and outlets such as showers, cooling towers, fountains and sinks are common sources of Legionella.
- Legionella causes Legionnaires’ disease. This is contracted by inhaling small droplets or water, or aerosols, not by drinking.
- Not everyone will contact Legionnaires’ disease. The elderly, newborns, heavy smokers, those suffering from heart, lung or kidney disease and those who are immuno-compromised are more at risk.
- Legionella bacteria most typically seeds from biofilms on plumbing materials.
- The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 enforces the control of Legionella in the UK.
- Workplaces much conduct Legionella risk assessments if they employ more than five people.
- Keeping water clean and flowing helps to control Legionella risk.
- The CIDOC (Council for Infectious Diseases and Outbreak Control) are responsible for investigating outbreaks of Legionnaire’s disease and bringing prosecutions where there are shortcomings in risk management.
- Legionella control is possible at lower water temperatures with a copper and silver ionisation system.
At ProEconomy, our Orca copper silver ionisation system is controlling Legionella at prestigious sites worldwide, including Great Ormond Street Hospital, The European Space Agency and Windsor Castle.
You can find out more about Legionella here. Alternatively, if you would like to find out about our Legionella control service or are concerned about Legionella control at your site please get in touch.
