Legionella Risk Assessment
A Legionella Risk Assessment looks at your water systems and the conditions that could allow Legionella bacteria to grow and spread. It helps identify the risks of exposure and the measures needed to control those risks.
At Safety Desk Consulting Ltd, we visit your premises to assess the water systems, how they are used and the people who may be exposed. We inspect the system and look for conditions that may increase the risk, such as water stagnation, unsuitable temperatures, poor system maintenance, dead legs, storage tanks and other areas where bacteria could grow.
We also provide water sampling and arrange laboratory testing for Legionella bacteria and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Samples are analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory.
Our assessment is based on the actual water system at your premises rather than a generic assessment. We provide clear findings and practical recommendations to help you understand and manage any risks identified.
Who needs a Legionella Risk Assessment?
A Legionella Risk Assessment is relevant to businesses and organisations that have water systems where there may be a risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria.
Safety Desk carries out assessments for a range of premises, including:
- Dental practices
- GP and medical practices
- Care homes
- Children’s residential homes
- Schools
- Offices and workplaces
- Churches and places of worship
- HMOs and rental properties
- Other commercial and public premises
The need for an assessment depends on the water systems at the premises and the potential for people to be exposed. HSE guidance recommends that duty-holders assess their water systems and take appropriate steps to prevent or control the risk where it is reasonably foreseeable.
Why do I need a Legionella Risk Assessment?
Legionella bacteria can grow in water systems where suitable conditions exist. The risk can increase where water becomes stagnant, temperatures allow bacteria to grow, or water systems are poorly maintained.
A Legionella Risk Assessment helps you understand whether these conditions exist at your premises and what should be done to control the risk.
It can help you:
- Identify potential sources of Legionella risk within your water system.
- Identify areas where water may become stagnant.
- Check whether hot and cold water systems are being properly managed.
- Identify conditions that could allow bacteria to grow.
- Consider who may be exposed and whether some people may be more vulnerable.
- Identify areas where maintenance or other control measures are needed.
- Determine whether water sampling or further investigation is appropriate.
- Provide a clear record of the assessment and recommended actions.
A Legionella Risk Assessment is important for protecting people from the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria and for helping you meet your legal responsibilities for managing health and safety risks associated with your water system.
What does Safety Desk check during the assessment?
We assess the water system as a whole and consider how it is installed, used and maintained.
Depending on the premises and water system, we check areas such as:
- Hot and cold water systems
- Water storage tanks
- Hot water cylinders and associated equipment
- Taps, showers and other outlets
- Water temperatures
- Areas where water may become stagnant
- Pipework and potential dead legs
- The condition and accessibility of relevant water system components
- System usage and maintenance arrangements
- Existing Legionella control measures
- Records and monitoring arrangements
- People who may be exposed to the water or water droplets
We also consider whether further measures, including water sampling, are appropriate based on the findings of the assessment.
What will I receive after the assessment?
Following the assessment, you will receive a clear Legionella Risk Assessment report based on our findings at your premises, together with relevant supporting documentation, including your water system schematic diagram.
The report explains the risks identified within the water system, the existing arrangements and any areas where improvements are needed. Where action is required, we provide practical recommendations to help you understand what needs to be addressed.
Where water sampling is carried out, you will also receive the laboratory results for the samples taken, including results for Legionella bacteria and Pseudomonas aeruginosa where applicable.
Depending on the service provided and the needs of your premises, supporting documents may include:
- Legionella Management Policy
- Monthly Water Temperature Record
- Legionella Control Logbook
- Legionella Written Scheme of Control
- Water System Schematic showing the main parts of the system
- Other relevant compliance records and documents
Our aim is to give you a clear understanding of your water system, the risks identified and the actions needed to manage those risks.
Why choose Safety Desk and how do I book?
Safety Desk provides Legionella Risk Assessments for businesses and organisations across a range of sectors.
Our assessments are carried out at your premises at a time that is convenient for you. We focus on the actual water system and the risks present at your premises in relation to the relevant legal requirements, rather than providing a generic assessment. Our reports are written in clear, straightforward language so that you can understand the findings and know what action is required.
Where water sampling is carried out, our water samples are tested by a UKAS-accredited laboratory, and you will receive the laboratory results.
Our aim is to provide you with useful information that you can act on within a reasonable and appropriate timeframe. We also provide support after the assessment if you need assistance understanding or implementing the recommended actions.
To arrange a Legionella Risk Assessment, contact Safety Desk Consulting Ltd on 0208 089 4800 or email info@safetydesk.co.uk.
Book your Legionella Risk Assessment with Safety Desk today.