Legionnaire's Disease
Havebury is committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of our tenants and employees. We recognise that the risks from legionella bacteria may arise within your home. Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia caused by the legionella bacteria. It can kill. Legionella are bacteria common in natural rivers, lakes and artificial water systems such as hot and cold water systems, storage tanks, pipe work, taps and showers.
Other potential sources of legionella include spa and whirlpool baths, humidifiers, drinking water systems, water features, garden hoses, sprinklers and fire fighting systems such as sprinklers and hose reels.
Legionella bacteria can survive in low temperatures, but thrive between 20°C and 45°C. Temperatures above 50°C will kill the bacteria. The infection is caused by the inhalation of water droplets or spray-mists which have been contaminated by the bacteria. Those most at risk include elderly people, smokers and those suffering from long term illness. It is not contracted through drinking contaminated water and cannot be passed from person to person.
The risk of legionella is very small, however when you move in to your home, or if you leave your home unoccupied for a week or more, be sure to:
• run all showers, baths, wash basins or sinks continuously for a period of five minutes to flush through any form of bacteria
• switch your water heater on if possible and leave for a period of one hour prior to use.
• clean and maintain all taps and shower heads regularly
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Raising the temperature of warm water is one way to control legionella growth, but could also increase the risk of burns and scalding. Please take care especially if you have children.
If you would like further information, please contact us on 0300 3300 900.
