Legionella Risk Assessment in Schools

Let’s talk Legionella Risk Assessments in schools and how to keep staff and students safe. Education is key to preventing Legionella-related issues in schools. By raising awareness and providing training to stakeholders, we can empower schools to take proactive measures to safeguard the health and well-being of students, staff, and visitors. Below, we’ve outlined some important information about Legionella risk and prevention measures:

What is Legionella?

Legionella bacteria are naturally occurring microorganisms found in water sources such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. When Legionella-contaminated water becomes aerosolized and is inhaled, it can lead to serious respiratory illnesses such as Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac fever.

Why Schools Are at Risk

School buildings contain various water systems and amenities that can harbor Legionella bacteria, including water tanks, pipes, showers, and faucets. Factors such as stagnant water, inconsistent temperature control, and the presence of biofilm can contribute to the growth and proliferation of Legionella.

Risks to Students and Staff

Children and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to Legionella-related illnesses. Legionnaires’ disease can present with flu-like symptoms, pneumonia, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. Pontiac fever is a milder form of Legionella infection that causes fever, headache, and muscle aches.

Preventive Measures

To mitigate Legionella risk in schools, it’s essential to implement preventive measures:

• Conduct regular Legionella risk assessments to identify potential hazards and develop mitigation strategies.
• Maintain water systems properly by flushing stagnant water, cleaning and disinfecting water tanks, and ensuring adequate temperature control.
• Educate staff and students about Legionella risk factors and hygiene practices and promptly reporting any plumbing issues.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive water management plan in accordance with relevant regulations and guidelines.

How often should you have a Legionella risk assessment?

Legionella Risk Assessments should be conducted regularly, typically annually, or whenever there are significant changes to water systems. This frequency ensures that any potential risks are identified and addressed promptly.

Is it a legal requirement in schools to have a Legionella risk assessment?

Yes, it is a legal requirement for schools to conduct Legionella Risk Assessments to comply with health and safety regulations. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK mandates that employers, including schools, assess and manage the risks associated with Legionella.

How do you carry out a Legionella Risk Assessment?

Legionella Risk Assessments are typically carried out by professional organisations that are members of the Legioella Control Association such as Water Hygiene Services. The organisation will inspect water systems, identify potential risks, and recommend preventive measures. This involves a comprehensive inspection of all water-related components, including tanks, pipes, showers, and taps.

Is a Legionella Risk Assessment done when the kids are not in school?

While Legionella risk assessments can be conducted during school hours, it’s often more practical to schedule them during holidays or weekends when the facilities are less busy. However, with careful planning, assessments can be conducted discreetly during school hours to minimise disruption.

How easy is a Legionella Risk Assessment to do?

Legionella risk assessments require expertise and specialised equipment but can be relatively straightforward when conducted by experienced professionals. The process involves a combination of visual inspections, water sampling, temperature measurements, and analysis of system design and maintenance records.

Do I need to disclose the Legionella risk assessment to the government and parents?

While there may not be a legal requirement to disclose the assessment to parents, schools are obligated to maintain a safe environment and may choose to inform stakeholders as part of their transparency efforts. Additionally, the findings of the assessment may need to be reported to relevant regulatory authorities, such as the local health department.

What do I do about school holidays when the school is not in use?

Legionella Risk Assessments should ideally be conducted when the school is in normal operation to assess the system under typical conditions. However, assessments can also be scheduled during school holidays with proper planning. This ensures that any risks are identified and addressed before students and staff return to the premises.

Preventive Measures

Outline proactive steps that schools can take to mitigate Legionella risk, such as regular water testing, temperature monitoring, and maintenance of water systems.
Discuss the importance of implementing a comprehensive water management plan in accordance with relevant regulations and guidelines.

Educating Stakeholders

It is important to educate school administrators, staff, and students about Legionella risk and prevention measures. Keep communication open and transparent and provide resources and recommendations when required.

Legionella risk in schools is real and we hope you have understood the importance of proactive prevention measures.

Is your school safe?

To find out whether your school is safe and compliant and to prioritise water hygiene and safety as part of your overall health and safety protocols please contact us today. We work as a main provider to the UK school network and have a large number of schools in our client base. We are a member of the Legionella Control Association so you can be assured of our quality and professionalism within your school.