Why do I need a Risk Assessment?

This is referred to in the HSE’s Approved Code of Conduct and Guidance (ACOP L8, 2013) entitled; ‘Legionnaires’ Disease. The control of legionella bacteria in water systems.’

What does the ACOP say?

“A suitable and sufficient assessment must be carried out to identify and assess the risk of exposure to legionella bacteria from work activities and water systems on the premises and any necessary pre­cautionary measures.”

Does it apply to me?

Yes. Under the ‘Health and Safety at Work Act’ (1974) you - as employer or as ‘person in control of a premises’ have certain legal responsibilities and need to take suitable precautions.

Isn’t this for large companies?

No organisation is too small. You are assessing the risk to your employees, to others (such as visitors) as well as, of course, to yourself. This legislation even applies to the self-employed.

Who should be doing this?

The legionella Risk Assessment has to be performed by a competent person. This may be the employer, the person in control of the premises, or - more commonly - a specialist contractor.

What is the objective?

To identify and evaluate the risk(s) of exposure to legionella bacteria. For some sites there will be no reasonably foreseeable risk. However, for the vast majority, the following steps apply:

1. Can the risk of legionella bacteria be eliminated?
2. And, if not, how can the risk beminimised?
3. The validation of any/all controlmeasures introduced.
4. The implementation of a watermanagement system.

How can we help?

CCS has a dedicated team of qualified and experienced risk assessors with specific focus on minimising the risk associated with legionella bacteria in water systems.