Businesses must be wary of the threat of Legionnaires’ disease as they prepare to re-open. The
potentially fatal disease is a real risk to businesses that have been dormant during the COVID-19
lockdown, and businesses are at risk of heavy penalties should they fail to comply to regulations.
The Legionnaires’ Risk
Bacteria forming in unused water systems of cafés, shops and offices carry an increased risk of spreading
Legionnaires’ disease – and many of these businesses must carry out vital safety checks to ensure the
safety of staff, visitors, and patrons.
Symptoms for Legionnaires’ disease include coughing, shortness of breath, a high fever, muscle pains
and headaches. In some cases, the disease can lead to pneumonia – and while it can be treated with
antibiotics, it is potentially fatal.
Legionnaires’ disease can be contracted by breathing in small droplets of contaminated water in the air,
so flushing cold water symptoms and increasing the temperature of hot water systems to above 60°C
are important steps for business owners to take ahead of opening their doors to staff and the general
public.
Despite businesses being closed for much of 2020, there were 295 recorded cases of Legionnaires’
between January and October.
Julie Barrat, president of the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health indicated that Legionnaires’ is
a risk for businesses of all sizes and should not be underestimated.
“Many businesses, large and small, will be gearing up to reopen and welcome customers back on 12
April. However, Legionnaire’s disease is a serious risk after such a prolonged period of closure for many
businesses.
“Whether you run a hairdressing salon or a clothing shop, it is important to take a few simple steps to
prevent the risks prior to business reopening by flushing through water systems – especially any water
tanks – at the appropriate temperatures,” she said.
Take Precautions Now, Before Accidents Occur
Aside from water safety, preventative maintenance should be performed on HVAC systems, and it would
be wise for businesses to consider tackling any general preventative maintenance that was deferred
while doors were closed during the global pandemic.
Ensure that all mechanical and electrical maintenance protocols are up to date, audit fire safety systems
and make sure that all staff are aware of any changes to health and safety procedures.
Being proactive now will reduce the risk of injury, sickness, or malfunction later – and all deferred
maintenance activities must be performed to provide a safe working environment.
Get Expert Guidance
Find a partner that will support your facilities maintenance due diligence. At Voltix Services, our team of
experts are on hand to ensure that you’ve performed your compliance duties, assist with maintenance
and installation, and give you trusted advice.
If you’re in need of a helping hand ahead of re-opening your business, get in touch today.