legionella

Legionnaires disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by the inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water containing Legionella. All man-made hot and cold water systems are likely to provide an environment where Legionella can grow. Where conditions are favourable (ie suitable growth temperature range; water droplets (aerosols) produced and dispersed; water stored and/or recirculated; some 'food' for the organism to grow such as rust, sludge, scale, biofilm etc) then the bacteria may multiply thus increasing the risk of exposure. It is a simple fact that the organism will colonise both large and small systems so both require risks to be managed effectively. 

Is a Legionella Risk Assessment mandatory in Scotland?

It is mandatory that landlords in Scotland risk assess their property to reduce the risk of exposure to Legionella. 

If you’re a landlord in the UK, you’re now required under the Health and Safety at Work Act to carry out a legionella risk assessment on your property, and to manage the risk to your tenants from legionella.