Some buildings are busy at weekends and quiet the rest of the week. Others are full all summer and empty all winter. These patterns create exactly the conditions legionella bacteria like: water that sits unused for days or weeks.
Who is this for?
- Community and parish halls
- Sports and social clubs
- Holiday homes and self-catering lets
- Seasonal accommodation
- Buildings used for events only
Why does intermittent use matter?
When water is not drawn off regularly, it can sit in tanks, pipes and showerheads. Temperatures drift into the range where bacteria can multiply. When the shower finally runs on Saturday morning, any bacteria present can be released in a fine spray.
Practical steps
- Have a legionella risk assessment. It looks at your water system, how the building is used and where the risks are. Even a small building benefits from one.
- Flush before use. Typically, outlets are run through before people arrive, and little-used outlets are flushed regularly during quiet periods. Keep a note of it.
- Watch the temperatures. Hot water should be stored and delivered hot enough, and cold water kept cool. Your risk assessment will set out the targets that suit your system.
- Clean and descale showerheads. Typical practice is to do this routinely and more often where use is irregular.
- Plan for reopening. After a long closure, have a simple checklist for flushing and checking before guests or members return.
- Keep records. A basic logbook is invaluable if anyone ever asks what you were doing to manage the risk.
Who is responsible?
If you manage or control the premises, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 expects you to manage risks to employees and others who may be affected by your activities. For many clubs, that means volunteers on the committee. The good news is that a clear, written plan makes it manageable.
We are here to help
A legionella risk assessment tailored to your premises gives you a practical, easy-to-follow action plan. Safer Solutions works with all types of buildings across Ireland. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie for a friendly chat.