Legionnaires’ disease is caught by breathing in tiny droplets that contain legionella bacteria. That means any activity that creates a fine spray from contaminated water can matter, not just showers.
Where to look
- Hoses left coiled with water inside, especially in warm weather.
- Pressure washers and steam cleaners used with stored or stagnant water.
- Wash bays and cleaning stores with little-used taps and hoses.
- Farm and yard hoses used only now and then.
- Spray nozzles and attachments that are rarely cleaned.
Practical steps
- Include hoses, wash bays and similar equipment in your legionella risk assessment if they are connected to your water supply.
- Drain hoses and store them off the ground after use.
- Run water through hoses and pressure washers for a short time before use if they have not been used for a while, keeping spray away from people.
- Avoid using water that has been stored for long periods, and check the cleanliness of tanks and containers. See our guide on cold water storage tanks.
- Clean and descale nozzles and attachments regularly.
- Keep a simple record of checks and flushing.
These are typical good-practice steps, and your risk assessment should set what suits your site.
Your duties
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 requires employers to manage risks to health. The HPSC national guidelines for the control of legionellosis in Ireland give practical guidance for water systems.
Talk to us
Ask for a legionella risk assessment that covers the whole site, indoors and out. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie. See common legionella risks in buildings.