There have been a number of cases of the Legionella bacteria in public spaces, causing people to contract the disease and even die as a result. While it is common knowledge that building cooling towers, air conditioning, climate control systems, and water storage areas are the main breeding grounds for Legionella, the next big danger comes from sprinkler mechanisms. Any device that has the potential to create a fine mist, an aerosol effect, or scattered water droplets could cause a problem.
Typical areas of concern in public spaces such as shopping malls, sports halls, exhibition spaces, and stadiums or arenas are water features, fountains, and waterfalls. These attractive decorations can act as an easy spread for Legionella bacteria. Health spas and recreation centers also need to be careful, as whirlpool spas, hot tubs, swimming pools, and hot tubs can produce a fine spray or mist that will increase the risk of contamination.
Legionella outbreaks during the 1999 Bovenkarspel Annual Flower Show in the Netherlands where a whirlpool spa was the culprit and the 2011 hot tub incident at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles show how public water fountains unmonitored can help spread the infection.
Fountains, water sculptures and waterfalls form the central feature of many urban centers or shopping centers and these can be the perfect system from which to start an epidemic. Chlorination of public pools, foot spas, and hot tubs is a common treatment, but it is also necessary to monitor and maintain unusual and novel water attractions.
Maintenance personnel, owners, and service companies should always conduct a Legionella Risk Assessment and check any water mechanisms where there is the possibility of producing small droplets, which could transfer Legionella bacteria. Shower heads, artificial streams, indoor ponds, and waterers should be treated as potential pubic safety hazards.
When considering the threat of Legionnaires’ disease, most people are aware that cooling towers, water tanks, and air conditioning systems are a risk, but how often are fun, decorative features checked? and relaxing from the water in our environment? These are also important when it comes to protecting yourself against the threat of Legionella.
The Health & Safety Executive AcoP L8 guidance states that an employer or a person in control of any establishment has a responsibility to assess the severity of the risk to staff and members of the public. Establish a course of action to prevent and control the risk and carry out periodic maintenance, cleaning and disinfection of all water systems.