This is one of a number of studies of the health effects of computer work to receive funding from the HSE which will help HSE to keep its guidance on VDU work up to date. Organisms thrive between 20 and 45 degrees centigrade. They are killed at higher temperatures and this is the main method used for their control in hot water systems. Legionellosis is the name given to a group of pneumonia-like illnesses caused by legionella. The most serious is Legionnaires' Disease and there have been several outbreaks involving staff, patients or the general public.
Infection is caused by breathing small droplets of water contaminated by the bacteria.
Anyone can get infected but those most at risk include elderly people, smokers, alcoholics and those suffering from cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease or kidney disease. Control of Legionella Control of legionella in evaporative cooling towers and hot and cold water systems is required in the UK under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Guidance on legionella was first issued by UK Health and Safety Executive in 1987. This is intended to identify possible sources of infection during investigations of outbreaks of Legionnaires' Disease. The revision has been prompted by several recent investigations of outbreaks of Legionnaires' Disease which have shown evidence of poor standards and lack of awareness by some duty holders and contractors.