What are the specific risks for Legionella and water quality?

Exposure to legionella bacteria from untreated water systems in buildings managed by the University can give rise to the risk of infections and illness amongst students, staff, and others.

Legionella is a collective term used to describe a range of bacteria that can develop in water systems when certain conditions are present. These conditions include a water temperature of between 20 to 45 degrees Celsius, if water is stored, standing, or recirculated in a system, or the presence of sludge or organic matter in a water system. Other sources of exposure include breathable droplets or aerosols from cooling towers.

Exposure to legionella bacteria can lead to Legionnaires’ Disease and other respiratory lung infections, with exposure from inhalation or from swallowing water containing Legionella which enters the lungs.

The legionella risk from water systems is identified and assessed in Water Risk Assessments (WRAs) undertaken by specialist contractors appointed by Estates and Campus Services, as the lead department for the management of legionella risks.  

The university's Water Quality and Hygiene Policy 2024 identifies responsibilities and arrangements in place for the management of legionella risks. 

The Water Quality and Hygiene Working Group (see the Terms of Reference) is a cross functional committee to monitor and receive assurance on the university's legionella and water quality management controls. 

The regulations applicable to the control of legionella risks are The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

The Approved Code of Practice on the Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems provides detailed guidance on the application of the Regulations.

Further information on the management and control Legionella risks can be obtained from the Health and Safety Executive website.

There is also a homepage that lists the range of Health and Safety risks identified as relevant to the University's activities and facilities, together with information on the University's policies and arrangements on how these risks are to be managed and controlled.