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  12. Legionella Safety

Legionella Safety

Legionella is natural bacteria found in water and water systems. It can cause different illnesses such as Pontiac Fever, Lochgoilhead Fever and Legionnaires' disease.

Although it is very rare, it is possible to catch these through a domestic water system.

The facts

  • You cannot catch legionella by drinking water.
  • The biggest risk is by breathing in contaminated water droplets.
  • The risks are higher where water has been sat in the hot/cold water tank for a long time and is warm enough for the bacteria to breed.
  • Breeding bacteria takes place between 20°C and 45°C.
  • There is an increased risk if there are any deposits in the water, for example sludge, rust, scale or dirt on taps/shower heads.

Steps we take to keep you safe:

·         If you live at Trinity Court, Glen Haven, Nene Court, we monitor water temperatures to prevent the breeding of legionella bacteria. Our approved contractor attends sites monthly setting control parameters (eg setting the temperature of the hot water cylinder (calorifier) to ensure water is stored at 60°C) We also carry out this same process for our community centres. In addition to this our approved contractor monitors water temperatures remotely via software 24hrs a day, which allows us to be notified of water temperature irregularities promptly.

·         We carry out water hygiene risk assessments for communal water systems and void properties (before letting).

·         Flush out water systems before letting a property.

·         Make sure any redundant pipework is identified and removed.

·         Where possible install combi boilers and electric showers to eliminate the risk associated with stored water.

 

Steps you can take:

  1. If you have been away for a week or more, turn your hot and cold taps on in your sink(s), wash basin(s) and bath. Slowly run the water for one minute and then run the water quickly for at least two minutes. Flush your toilet(s) twice, with the lid closed, to clear the water system.
  2. Wash through the shower - remove the shower head and run the water for at least two minutes. Where it is not possible to remove the shower head, put the shower head down in the bath or shower tray or cover it with a towel or plastic bag to stop water droplets getting into the air.
  3. Set the hot water temperature at 60°C. If you have a bathroom that is rarely used, run the water through all the taps (including the sink, bath, shower and toilet) on a weekly basis or before somebody uses the room, following the steps above.
  4. Regularly use, clean and disinfect all taps, toilets and shower heads and keep them scale free.
  5. Keep the lid on your water tank/toilet cistern.

You should contact us if:

  • The water coming out of your taps, shower or toilet contains any debris or is discoloured.
  • Your boiler or hot water tank is not working properly, especially if the water temperature is lower than 50°C after running for two minutes.
  • The cold water is still running warm i.e. above 20°C after two minutes