Risk Assessment & Testing - Specific Guidance for Commercial Properties
Landlords and tenants of commercial premises have a duty of care towards anyone entering the premises. Water systems in commercial premises should have Legionnaire's testing regularly to ensure the health and safety of all staff, customers and anyone else entering the premises. Any water outlet producing aerosol, shower heads for example, are a recognised source of infection and it is important, therefore, that such outlets are regularly cleaned and tested. Issues with the hot water system, in particular, should be reported to the landlord. Flushing through, cleaning and testing water systems on a regular basis, particularly when a premise has been vacant for some time, will help minimise the risk posed by Legionella bacteria.
Inspectors are becoming increasingly aware of the potential dangers of Legionella bacteria and are actively looking for evidence of regular legionnaires disease testing within all commercial properties.
What are Your Responsibilities?
You have a responsibility under current legislation and a duty of care to anyone entering commercial premises.
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance states that if you are a landlord, tenant, employer or someone in control of premises you must understand the health risks associated with Legionella and control any risks.
You must know how to:
- Identify and audit sources of risk
- Handle any risks
- Prevent or halt any risks
- Maintain appropriate records
- Perform any other duties of care including regular water testing
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