Legionella Management

Introduction

Legionellosis is the collective name given to the pneumonia-like illness caused by legionella bacteria. This includes the most serious legionnaires’ disease, as well as the similar but less serious conditions of Pontiac fever and Lochgoilhead fever. Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia and everyone is susceptible to infection. However, some people are at higher risk, including:

• People over 45 years of age
• Smokers and heavy drinkers
• People suffering from chronic respiratory or kidney disease
• Anyone with an impaired immune system

The bacterium Legionella pneumophila and related bacteria are common in natural water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs, but usually in low numbers. They may also be found in purpose-built water systems such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers and whirlpool spas.

If conditions are favourable, the bacteria may grow, increasing the risks of legionnaires’ disease. Therefore, it is important to control the risks. Please refer to the Legionella and Water Hygiene Management Policy   for the Prevention and Control of Legionella in Water Systems.

The University Water Hygiene Management Group ensures that all mandatory requirements for legionella and water hygiene are met.

Schools and Departments must consider water systems that are a component of research and teaching activities.