Many water utilities choose to outsource the task for conducting Legionella risk Assessment for Legionella Risk Assessment to an individual contractor. The primary responsibility for adhering to the guidelines laid out by the manufacturer, however important, it is with the local manager or owner of the treatment facility and it is crucial to ensure that a qualified water hygiene specialist is capable of proving that they are in compliance to the standards. Through the use of a certified external water quality expert and a report on water quality is prepared that outlines the results of an on-site inspection along with a comprehensive examination of the plant as well as the surrounding fields. While these reports aren’t exhaustive nor do they contain all inspections, they are extremely useful in understanding the risks to health that come with various disinfection procedures. Because of the standard of care needed to conduct Legionella Risk Assessment it is not unusual for multiple experts to participate during the procedure.
There are many advantages to conducting an assessment of the risk of legionella; first, if it is recognized that this bacteria is present, it can be stopped from returning in the drinking water system, therefore reducing the cost and time in the long-term as well as short-term management. Furthermore, providing details to customers regarding the presence of the bacteria could help to take extra precautions to prevent exposure. Also important is ensuring that the systems comply with strict standards and are certified to be compliant to ensure that the appropriate regulatory actions is taken to prevent any future outbreaks. Alongside ensuring that all relevant legislation is adhered to at all times of operation, an effective legionella risk assessment could lower the danger to employees, customers and the surrounding environment. This is especially important considering the low degree of personal understanding that exists in the healthcare industry regarding the causes, prevention , and control of this particular bacteria.
A risk assessment for legionella is vital in planning new facilities as well as when incorporating new equipment in existing ones, because this type of bacterium is able to grow in new areas, specifically when exposed to temperatures, humidity light, preparation methods and cosmetics. So, if something is changed in any stage in the process, it’s vital to carry out regular checks and risk assessments to determine any emerging risks or patterns. In this way, health care organizations can cut down on unplanned expenses as well as ensure the safety of their employees as well as their patients and the surrounding environment.