Legionella

[sunnyday]

Not wanting to give forum members even more to worry about, but thought that this was worth sharing - copy and paste job:

Dear Manager

 

Legionella risks in vacant properties

 

During the Covid-19 pandemic and current state of emergency, businesses have closed and buildings and properties have become vacant, for a period of time sufficient to increase the risk of Legionella in water systems.

 

This information is for the attention of business owners or operators, landlords or property managers and anyone who manages water systems in properties.

 

As we know the Government is currently advising home working, therefore it is timely to remind you of the Legionella risks in vacant properties, including the businesses that have temporarily closed, where water is allowed to stagnate within water systems.

 

As a general principle, outlets on hot and cold water systems should be used at least once a week to maintain a degree of water flow and to minimise the chances of stagnation.

 

To manage the risks during non-occupancy, consideration should be given to implementing a suitable flushing regime or other measures such as draining the system if it is to remain vacant for long periods.  See guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

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Thank you for posting this Sunnyday, it’s not something I would have thought about.