How to protect yourself from Legionnaires’ Disease

Legionnaires’ Disease is a pneumonia-like illness caused by legionella bacteria. The bacteria are found in the natural environment and may contaminate and grow in water systems, including domestic hot and cold water systems. They survive in low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between 20 – 45°C if the conditions are right. They are killed by high temperatures at 60°C or above.

Breeding grounds within the home

• Domestic hot and cold water systems can provide an environment where Legionella bacteria can grow.
• Legionnaires’ Disease can be caused by the inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water containing Legionella bacteria.

To prevent legionella YOU MUST make sure that:

• The hot water in the system is kept hot;
• The cold water in the system is kept cold;
• The water is kept circulated.

In particular, it is important that you:

• Tell us if your boiler or hot water tank is not working correctly, particularly if the water is not coming out of the taps at a sufficiently high temperature.
• Do not interfere with the settings on your boiler or hot water system. The hot water should be set so that the water is heated up to 60°C.
• Tell us if the cold water is still running warm after you have initially run off any water.
• Tell us if there are problems, debris or discolouration in the water.

If you have a shower, it is recommended that:

• You flush the water through by running the shower for at least 2 minutes once a week.
• You clean the shower head periodically, descale and disinfect it. This should be done at least every six months.

Moving into your new home!

One of the first jobs we ask you carry out upon moving into your new home is to run the taps/shower for at least 2 minutes, this will remove any stagnant water which has built up whilst your home has been unoccupied, then follow the guidance above.