Managing the risks of Legionella

Legionellosis, also known as ‘Legionnaires’ disease’ is a strain of pneumonia, so named after it affected a number of attendees at an American Legionnaires Convention in 1976.

The EI will publish the updated guidelines to help the oil and gas sectors understand the actions that must be taken in cases of Legionellosis.

Both industries are required to meet legislative requirements and have practical control of possible Legionella contamination.

Legislative guidance outlines that every company with a fresh water system must maintain a compliant and robust water risk management system that effectively demonstrates how the risk of an outbreak is being minimised.

Recently, operators within the sectors have sought to control the possibility of contamination within their systems; implementing a ‘Legionella control’ mind-set.

However, past reports have resulted in several cases of Legionella being highlighted, with misleading information being blamed for the outbreak.

But the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently issued a safety notice, reviewing reported cases in the UK.

“Our research has confirmed the importance of businesses following the well-established and readily available guidance. Through safety notices we are reiterating what those responsible for maintenance of water systems should be doing already,” the HSE stated.

“They have a responsibility to manage the risk they create to protect workers and the wider public. This is a reminder of what the law expects. Failure to comply with the law means they may face legal sanction, including in the most serious cases prosecution through the courts,” added the HSE.