Legionella
Managing the risks of legionella throughout the University.
Introduction
Legionellosis is a potentially fatal infectious disease caused by bacteria belonging to the genus Legionella. Most Legionellosis cases are caused by Legionella Pneumophila, a ubiquitous aquatic organism that thrives in temperatures between 20 and 45°C.
There are 2 distinct forms of Legionellosis:
- Legionnaire's disease - this is the most severe form of infection, which produces pneumonia.
- Pontiac fever - this is caused by the same bacteria, but produces a milder respiratory illness without pneumonia, and resembles acute influenza.
Arrangement and Guidance
Please see the University's Legionella Arrangement and Guidance documents below:
Legionella Arrangement TGN: Control of Legionella and Hot Water Hazards
The Health and Safety Executive has also produced the following approved code of practice and guidance document for Legionella to ensure employers comply with the requirements under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002: