Legionella Awareness Training – why is it needed?

Posted on 23rd Jan, 2023 | By Isobel

In the UK, between 200 and 300 people a year die from Legionnaires disease, caused by Legionella bacteria. Whilst these figures may seem high, they are widely believed to be a very conservative estimate, with the true number said to be even higher. 

In the majority of cases, the infection will cause a serious fever and flu-like symptoms; however, in 12% of all Legionella cases, the disease is fatal. 

The illness is typically contracted by accidentally inhaling small drops of infected water that have been suspended in the air. The bacteria grows in temperatures between 20 – 45°, and can grow in deposits such as sludge, rust, scale and other organic matter. For this reason, it’s important to keep your water systems clean at all times. 

All commercial buildings such as shops, restaurants, office buildings and factories will have water on-site and, therefore, must carry out regular Legionella Risk Assessments. Let’s take a quick look at why Legionella Awareness Training is so crucially important to workplaces within the UK, and why we recommend it for businesses of all sizes. 

Legal compliance

Although there is no direct legal obligation to partake in Legionella Awareness Training, businesses do have a legal obligation to protect the health and safety of their staff and customers at work. One way to provide evidence of compliance with this duty is to ensure staff are adequately trained on risk prevention within the workplace. 

Protection of Employees and Customers

Legionella is a serious bacterial infection that can cause severe respiratory illness, and in some cases, death. By providing employees with the necessary training, businesses can help protect their employees and customers from the risks associated with Legionella. 

Cost savings

Legionella Awareness Training can help businesses save money in the long term. By identifying and controlling the risks associated with Legionella, businesses can prevent costly outbreaks and the associated medical and legal costs. 

Risk Management 

Legionella Awareness Training can also help businesses with their risk management strategies. By providing employees with the knowledge and skills to identify and control risks, businesses can help reduce the likelihood of a Legionella outbreak, which can have serious consequences for the business, its employees, and its customers. 

Reputation

Legionella Awareness Training can also help protect the reputation of a business. In the event of a Legionella outbreak, the business may be held liable and may suffer damage to its reputation. By providing employees with the necessary training, businesses can help protect their reputations and ensure they are seen as responsible and committed to health and safety. 

In summary, Legionella Awareness Training is exceptionally beneficial for businesses that have a legal obligation to protect the health and safety of their workforce and customers. Here at Browns Safety Services, we recommend that all organisations sign up for the training to protect their business from future potential risks. 

For more information, check out our course here or give us a call on 01282 937148.

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