Legionella warning issued for UK property managers

UK: Yesterday, UK hoteliers, holiday let owners and bed and breakfast operators were urged to prioritise Legionella risk control for the summer season, as Legionella cases in the UK have reached an all-time high. 

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection caused by inhaling droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria, which can be fatal. The bacteria are often found in man-made water systems, such as taps, showers, air conditioning units, spa pools and hot tubs. Legionella bacteria thrive in stagnant water, particularly in temperatures between 20 and 45 degrees celsius.

In the latest government statistics, 604 cases of Legionnaires’ disease were reported in 2023 across England and Wales, the highest case report since 2017, when 488 cases were reported. 

With the reported increase in Legionnaires’ disease this year, Hydrosense, the UK-based Legionella research company, is urging hospitality operators to ensure water safety for all guests. 

Greg Rankin, CEO at Hydrosense, said: “As bookings ramp up for the busy summer season, it’s crucial that hoteliers, holiday let owners and the like don’t overlook the importance of ensuring a robust approach to water safety. Legionella bacteria can build up quickly in stagnant or underused systems, especially during warmer months – creating the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow. Taking action now – flushing systems, checking temperatures, carrying out risk assessments to incorporate rapid Legionella testing, can make a big difference in keeping guests safe and properties compliant.” 

Under UK health and safety law, all property owners and duty holders are responsible for identifying and controlling the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria. 

With regular maintenance, frequent flushing and risk assessments, Hydrosense is also urging property owners to integrate regular rapid Legionella testing, which can detect Legionella within 25 minutes. 

Rankin added: “The reality is that Legionella cases in the UK are rising at unprecedented rates. As with most health risks, prevention is far easier – and far less costly – than dealing with an outbreak and becoming another statistic. Incorporating rapid Legionella testing into their peak season preparations empowers hospitality operators to minimise potential exposure, gain peace of mind, and preserve their reputation with every stay.” 

Highlights: 

• UK hoteliers and holiday let owners are urged to prioritise Legionella risk control ahead of the summer season due to rising cases.
• Legionnaires’ disease cases in England and Wales hit 604 in 2023, the highest since 2017.
• Hydrosense recommends flushing systems, temperature checks, risk assessments and rapid Legionella testing that detects bacteria in 25 minutes. 
• UK law holds property owners responsible for Legionella control; regular maintenance and testing help protect guests and ensure compliance.