The HSC ACOP L8 states that 'a suitable and sufficient assessment is required to identify and assess the risk of exposure to Legionella from work activities and water systems'. A Legionella Risk Assessment involves a trained consultant visiting the client's premise and carrying out a detailed inspection of all water services and plant. The objective is to identify any areas where the bacteria may find suitable conditions for growth. A written report is then produced detailing the findings of the assessment, together with recommendations for remedial actions to reduce the current level of risk. The assessment takes into account the following factors:
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Water Temperature
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Water Stagnation
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Potential for Aerosol Fomation
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Heat Gain / Loss Potential
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Condition of the Water
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Condition of the Water Service and the Water System as a whole.
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The Susceptibility of Exposed Persons
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The Population Density of Exposed Persons
The risk assessment should be reviewed regularly and whenever there is reason to believe the original assessment may no longer be valid, for example:
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Where there have been Changes to Plant, the Water system or its use
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Where there have been changes to the use of the Building
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Where new information about Risk or Control Measures has become available
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Where Monitoring indicated that Control Measures are no longer effective
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