Keeping tenants safe

Legionella is a type of bacteria that can cause Legionnaires' disease, a serious form of pneumonia. It is spread by inhaling small droplets of water containing the bacteria. Everyone can be affected, but some people are at higher risk, including those over 45, smokers, heavy drinkers, and people with weakened immune systems.

How Does Legionella Spread?

Legionella bacteria can grow in any water system, including hot and cold-water systems in homes. The bacteria thrive in water temperatures between 20°C and 45°C. They can multiply in places where water is stagnant and where there is sludge, rust, or scale.

Key Areas of Risk:

• Showers and taps: Spray from these can spread the bacteria.
• Dishwasher and washing machine pipes: These can harbour bacteria if not used regularly.
• Hot water tanks and cylinders: These should be maintained at the correct temperature to prevent bacteria growth.

Simple Steps to Keep Your Water Safe

Keep Water Circulating:

• Run all taps, showers and all outlets that are not used regularly at least once a week.
• Flush all taps and showers (both cold and hot) for at least five minutes if you have been away from home for more than a week. It is important to guard against water splashing up or spraying towards you, especially from showers or spray taps.

Reporting Issues:

• Boiler or Hot Water Cylinder Problems: Inform the Council if these are not working correctly.
• Water Quality Issues: Report any consistent debris or discolouration in your water.
• DIY Precautions: Always request permission before doing any DIY work that might disturb water systems. Always use trained professionals for any repairs or maintenance involving water systems.

Council Responsibilities

The Council follows Regulatory Standards regulations and conducts regular maintenance and checks.

• Legionella Risk Assessment (LRA): Ensure all properties that requires an LRA have completed an LRA, and that installations and pipework are maintained in a safe condition.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Follow the Health & Safety Executive Approved Code of Practice L8: Legionnaires Disease – The Control of Legionella in Water Systems. Ensure compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and other relevant regulations.

Emergency Procedures

• Water Leaks: Turn off the water supply at the mains tap immediately and report the leak.
• Flooding: Follow the Council’s advice and information for flood: Flood advice and information – Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
• To report water safety issues please call the Council at 01709 336009.