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Guidance update on controlling legionella bacteria in evaporative cooling systems

Overview

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides crucial guidance on controlling legionella bacteria in evaporative cooling systems to ensure the health and safety of workers and the public. This guidance is essential because evaporative cooling systems can create ideal conditions for the growth of legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia.

Evaporative cooling systems, commonly used in industrial, commercial, and healthcare facilities, can harbor legionella bacteria if not managed properly. The HSE’s guidance aims to help dutyholders, including employers and those in control of premises, understand their legal responsibilities in managing the risks associated with legionella in these systems.

Key aspects of this guidance include:

  • Risk assessment: Dutyholders must conduct a thorough risk assessment of their evaporative cooling systems to identify and assess the risk of legionella growth and spread.
  • Control measures: Implement control measures to prevent or control the risk of legionella, such as ensuring the system is designed, installed, and maintained correctly.
  • Monitoring and maintenance: Regularly monitor and maintain the system to ensure it remains safe and effective in controlling legionella.
  • Record keeping: Keep accurate records of the risk assessment, control measures, and monitoring activities undertaken.

This guidance was published in March 2024 and applies to the United Kingdom.

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Does this guidance affect my business?

Failure to comply with the HSE’s guidance can have serious consequences for businesses. An outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease can result in significant harm to individuals, damage to reputation, and legal repercussions, including fines and potential closure of premises. By following this guidance, dutyholders can effectively manage the risks associated with legionella in evaporative cooling systems and protect the health and safety of their employees and the public.

Do I need this guidance in my ISO Compliance Register?

Any business or organisation that uses evaporative cooling systems is affected by this guidance. This includes but is not limited to industrial facilities, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and large residential complexes.

This guidance on controlling legionella bacteria in evaporative cooling systems is crucial for businesses to protect the health and safety of their employees and the public. By following this guidance and implementing appropriate control measures, businesses can effectively manage the risks associated with legionella and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Legislation related to this guidance

Legislation related to this guidance include:

  • Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
  • The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)

More information

Visit the “Guidance update on controlling legionella bacteria in evaporative cooling systems” on the hse.gov.uk website.

Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article to your Register.