Risk Assessment & Testing - Specific Guidance for Hotels & Leisure facilities
You will probably be unaware if your clients or residents fall into any of the high risk categories. Testing to mitigate the risks posed by Legionella bacteria should, therefore, be undertaken on a regular basis. Water outlets producing aerosol, shower heads for example, have been the source of historic outbreaks of Legionnaire’s Disease. If your facilities include a spa pool (Jacuzzi®) the risk is heightened as the water temperature and resulting aerosol provide the ideal breeding conditions for the Legionella bacteria. The infection is then transmitted, via inhalation, to customers, staff and anyone else using your hotel or leisure facilities.
Inspectors are becoming increasingly aware of the potential dangers of Legionella bacteria and are actively looking for evidence of regular testing within hotels and leisure facilities.
What are Your Responsibilities?
You have a responsibility for the health and safety and duty of care to all staff, customers and anyone else entering your hotel or leisure centre.
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
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