Hoses, hose reels and outdoor taps rarely make it onto a water system checklist. Yet water can sit in them for long periods, and using them can create a fine spray.
Why they matter
Stagnant, warm water in a coiled hose can encourage bacteria. When the hose is used for washing, cleaning or watering, spray can be released.
Practical steps
- Include them in your legionella risk assessment. If they are not listed, they are not being managed.
- Flush before use. Run water through before pointing a hose at anything and keep spray low.
- Drain and store hoses so water does not sit inside.
- Replace damaged or old hoses.
- Think about where the water goes, especially near doors, vents and people.
- Record what you do in your logbook. See our legionella logbook guide.
Your duties
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 expects employers to manage risks to health, and the HPSC national guidelines give practical advice on controlling legionella in water systems.
A legionella risk assessment from Safer Solutions covers the whole system, including less obvious outlets. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie. See common legionella risks in buildings.