HSE Launch HSG282: Control of legionella and other infectious agents in spa-pool systems
The HSE has recently published guidance HSG282 on how to control and manage the risks from legionella and other infectious agents in spa-pool systems.
This guidance is aimed mostly at those who manage or operate spa-pools, as well as service suppliers, designers, manufacturers, importers, suppliers and installers of spa-pool systems to ensure that they can meet their legal responsibilities.
There have been a number of outbreaks, linked to spa-pool systems in leisure centres, hotels, holiday homes, on cruise ships and even on display, some of which have resulted in fatalities. These systems do pose a reasonably foreseeable risk as the environmental conditions they create, could potentially allow and support the growth and dispersion of legionella and other infectious agents. The organism that causes legionnaires’ disease, primarily Legionella pneumophila, frequently grows in poorly designed and managed spa-pool systems.
Inadequate management, lack of training and poor communication can be contributory factors in outbreaks of diseases, including legionnaires’ disease. The dutyholder must ensure that suitable and sufficient information, instruction and training are provided, and that employees are aware of their individual responsibilities. Training, including refresher training, is an essential element of an employee’s capability to carry out their work safely.
This guidance provides specific information on the health and safety law that applies, referring to the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (HSW Act); the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR) and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) which also imposes certain statutory duties on those who manage spa-pool systems.
The HSE publication Legionnaires’ disease: The control of legionella bacteria in water systems (L8) 5 contains the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and guidance on regulations. HSG274 Legionnaires’ disease: Technical guidance gives further practical advice on the requirements of the HSW Act, MHSWR and COSHH concerning the risk from exposure to legionella bacteria. Alternatively, please refer to the HSE website.
The S2 Partnership is a registered Legionella Control Association provider of water hygieneThe growth of bacteria in water systems is a common cause of potentially-fatal Legionnaires’ disease. Recent outbreaks of Legionella have highlighted the need for stringent water hygiene risk mana... More management services including risk assessments, consultancy, training and analytical services. Please contact us for further information on how we could help your organisation.