A legionella risk assessment visit is a survey of your whole water system, from where water enters the building to the furthest tap. The assessor inspects tanks, heaters and outlets, takes temperatures and reviews your records. Here is what to expect, step by step.
Before the visit
You will be asked about the building: its size and use, who occupies it, and what water systems it has. Have these ready if you can:
- any previous legionella risk assessment
- temperature, flushing and cleaning records
- drawings or schematics of the water system
- access to tank rooms, roof spaces, plant rooms and locked areas
- someone who knows the building and its routines
Step 1: Understanding how the building is used
The assessor starts with people, not pipes: who uses the building, whether anyone is especially vulnerable, which areas are busy and which are rarely occupied.
Step 2: Cold water storage
Each tank is inspected for a close-fitting lid, screens, insulation, sediment and signs of contamination. The stored water temperature is measured, and the tank size is compared with how much water the building uses.
Step 3: Hot water
Water heaters and cylinders are checked for storage temperature, flow and return temperatures, and condition.
Step 4: Outlets
Temperatures are taken at outlets nearest to and furthest from the tank and heater. The assessor notes showers, spray taps, thermostatic mixing valves and any outlet that is rarely used.
Step 5: Pipework and other systems
The assessor looks for dead legs, redundant pipework and cold pipes running through warm spaces. Any other water system that creates spray is included: spa pools, cooling plant, humidifiers, hoses and water features.
Step 6: Management and records
Who is responsible for water safety, what checks are done, how they are recorded and whether staff have been trained.
What the report contains
- a description of the system
- each risk found, ranked by priority
- the action needed for each one
- a written scheme of control: the routine checks, who does them and how often
- a recommendation on whether sampling is needed
How long does it take?
It depends on the size and complexity of the building. A small office is much quicker than a nursing home or hotel. We give you an estimate when you book.
After the visit
Work through the actions in priority order and keep a record of what was done. National guidelines recommend reviewing the assessment at least once a year.
Safer Solutions carries out legionella risk assessments across Ireland. Call 086 275 9728, email info@safersolutions.ie or request a quote.