Legionella safety

What is Legionnaires' disease? 

It’s a serious type of pneumonia caused by breathing in tiny water droplets that contain legionella bacteria. Anyone can get it.  

Where can legionella bacteria grow? 

It can grow in any hot or cold water system, especially:  

• In showers, taps, and pipes.  

• When water sits still between?20°C and 45°C.  

• If there’s rust, sludge, or scale for bacteria to feed on.  

How to stay safe  

• Flush taps and showers?for 5 minutes if they haven’t been used for a while (e.g. after holidays or when moving in).  

• Clean shower heads and taps?every 3 months to prevent limescale and bacteria.  

• Keep hot water at 60°C or above?(don’t adjust the boiler). ?Be careful to avoid burns!  

• Report any rust or strange substances?coming from your taps or shower.  

Should I be worried?  

No need to panic. These simple steps help prevent the disease. The council also checks properties regularly. For more info, visit the?Health & Safety Executive?website.