If your building’s water system is putting people at risk without you realising, it’s natural to feel dread. Sometimes, it becomes hard to trust the tap water, showers, and even cooling towers that usually work quietly in the background. During this time, someone mentions Legionella, and you start wondering whether you are taking enough measures to keep yourself out of the risk. As a landlord, if something happens to a tenant, you feel the burden. For this reason, it is best to call the experts for the Legionella risk assessment in London.
Understanding the Frequency
It’s hard to find an exact number for Legionella risk assessment. For this reason, most people are caught off guard when it comes to maintenance services. One major contributor is the water system you use. However, the risk often develops over time.
Most standard buildings with a simple water system need an assessment every two years. However, this isn’t legally set in stone. It is usually a widely accepted rule. UK Health and Safety guidelines also consider it sensible practice and use it as a baseline.
Factors that Decide the Frequency of the Legionella risk assessment
Changes in the Building
Some building changes may affect the appearance of the system since the last assessment. If alterations are made to the water system, such as installing pipework or storage tanks, you will require a more frequent service.
A change in the building’s use can affect the frequency. In case the building is not used or is only partially used, it is best to talk with the experts to get an idea of the frequency.
Elevated bacterial levels in previous tests mean your building needs more frequent testing than the standard. When the staff member who manages the water system changes, it is best to do a risk assessment to be safe.
High Risk Environment
Hotels and hospitals with complex water systems or cooling towers are usually at higher risk. Most of these locations need a risk assessment every year, rather than every two years. People using these water systems are more vulnerable. For this reason, the consequences of an infected system can cause more damage than you can think.
Ongoing Monitoring Results
Risk assessment is mandatory. Once it is done, don’t forget about it. Instead, conduct regular water temperature checks. Visual checks and routine monitoring also help prevent issues between assessments. If readings are inconsistent, it is best to call the experts for review. The calendar doesn’t dictate the schedule.
Remember, a one-size-fits-all policy doesn’t work when it comes to the Legionella risk assessment in London. The safest approach is to check the system once every couple of years. If your building falls under the high-risk category, you should schedule more frequent checks. Chiltern Water has a team of experts to help. We use the best tools and technologies to keep you safe. Call or contact us to learn about our services.
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