Risk Assessment & Tests- Specific Guidance for Dental Surgeries
Legionella testing for dental practices / surgeries is essential for the safety of both staff and patients. Although reported incidents are low, recent studies show legionella bacteria found in 25% of DUWLs in the south-west. This highlights the need to test dental unit water lines regularly, although domestic hot and cold water systems need testing as well. This includes any systems used by the surgery, decontamination rooms and reception areas. According to the Health and Safety at Work Act, the employer is responsible for the health and safety of all staff, patients and anyone else entering the practice or surgery. These guidelines require the completion of a legionella risk assessment and regular monitoring. This is where our kits can help with legionella testing for dental practices. Testing will ensure the risks of bacteria are mitigated and that the practice will successfully pass any inspection.
What are Your Responsibilities?
Specifically, you have a responsibility to ensure Care Quality Commission (CQC*) compliance (*Care Inspectorate in Scotland, CSSIW in Wales).
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance states that if you are an 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
