
Employers, the self-employed and people in control of premises, such as landlords, have a duty to protect people by identifying and controlling risks associated with legionella.
If your building was closed or has reduced occupancy during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, water system stagnation can occur due to lack of use, increasing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease. HSE have issued full guidance to help you prevent legionella growth.
You should review your risk assessment and and manage the legionella risks when you:
reinstate a water system or start using it again
restart some types of air conditioning units
If the water system is still used regularly, maintain the appropriate measures to prevent legionella growth.
You can find out what Legionnaires’ disease is, where it comes from, how people get it and symptoms and treatment by reading our guidance What is Legionnaires’ disease?.