How Often Should a Legionella Risk Assessment Be Reviewed?
Many duty holders assume that once a Legionella risk assessment has been completed, it remains valid indefinitely. However, this is a common misconception. Water systems, buildings and their use can all change over time, meaning a previously suitable assessment may no longer accurately reflect the risks present.
Guidance outlined in HSG274 recommends that Legionella risk assessments are reviewed regularly and whenever there is reason to believe they are no longer valid. A review helps ensure your control measures remain effective, your responsibilities are being met, and your building continues to comply with current guidance.
When Should a Legionella Risk Assessment Be Reviewed?
A review should be considered whenever there is reason to believe the existing assessment may no longer reflect the current risk. Common examples include:
- Changes to the water system, such as pipework alterations, new equipment or system extensions.
- A change in how the water system is used or managed.
- A change in the use of the building, for example converting office space into residential accommodation, increasing occupancy, or periods of prolonged low occupancy.
- New information becoming available about Legionella risks, control measures or updates to legislation and industry guidance.
- Monitoring, inspection or sampling results indicating that existing control measures are no longer effective.
- Changes to key personnel responsible for managing Legionella compliance.
- A confirmed or suspected case of Legionnaires' disease or Legionellosis associated with the water system.
Is Your Current Risk Assessment Still Valid?
Many organisations are surprised to discover that although they have a Legionella risk assessment on file, significant changes have taken place since it was completed.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Has your building or water system changed in the last few years?
- Have areas of your building become vacant or changed purpose?
- Have you installed new water heaters, storage tanks, pipework or outlets?
- Has responsibility for water hygiene changed to a new employee or contractor?
- Are your monitoring results consistently achieving the required control standards?
- Would your current assessment accurately reflect your building if it were reviewed today?
If you are unsure whether your current Legionella risk assessment is still valid, it may be time to review your existing assessment.
Contact us today to arrange your Legionella risk assessment!
