The risk of legionella infection on commercial property is significant. Commercial property represents a high-risk environment for legionella because it is often tightly sealed and has stagnant water systems. Legionella can be spread through the air, water, or surfaces. Property owners and managers should assess their risk and take steps to reduce it.
What is Legionella?
Legionella is a bacterium that can cause Legionnaires' disease. Legionnaires' disease is a respiratory illness caused by legionella bacteria. Legionella bacteria can grow and multiply in warm, moist environments, such as water systems and air conditioning systems. The bacteria can be found in both fresh and salt water but are most commonly found in water systems. Legionella bacteria can also grow at high temperatures.
Temperatures
Legionella needs the desired temperature to grow and reproduce. At an average temperature of approximately 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius), Legionella can be exterminated entirely. Generally speaking, temperatures less than 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) are the optimal range for Legionella to survive. At the upper end of this temperature range, 82 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), Legionella cannot survive.
Conclusion:
Commercial property owners need to be aware of the legionella risk assessment and take steps to reduce the potential for exposure. You can keep your business safe from Legionella for as little as £69 +VAT.
At Metro-PAT 24/7, we have multiple surveyors across North, South, East and West London available to all business sectors and landlords.
Get in touch with our expert call navigators on 0800 014 6728 or book your Legionella Risk Assessment online today.
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