Guarding Against Legionnaires' Disease: A Tenant's Guide to Home Safety

Introduction

When it comes to our homes, we often prioritise comfort and aesthetics, but one aspect that is sometimes overlooked is safety.

Legionnaires' disease, caused by the potentially fatal legionella bacteria, is a risk that all tenants should be aware of.

While it might sound daunting, with some basic precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this pneumonia-like illness.

In this article, we will discuss legionnaires' disease and provide you with essential guidance on how to ensure your home stays safe.

Understanding Legionnaires' Disease

Legionnaires' disease is a serious respiratory illness caused by legionella bacteria.

Though anyone can be susceptible to infection, some individuals are at a higher risk, including those over 45 years of age, smokers, heavy drinkers, people with chronic respiratory or kidney diseases, and those with impaired immune systems.

The bacterium, legionella, is commonly found in natural environments and can contaminate and thrive in water systems, including domestic hot and cold water systems.

The Enemy Within: Legionella in Our Water Systems

Legionella is a resourceful bacterium. It can survive in low temperatures and thrives between 20°C and 45°C under the right conditions.

Fortunately, it is killed by high temperatures at 60°C or above. However, your domestic hot and cold water systems can provide the ideal breeding grounds for legionella bacteria.

Legionnaires' disease is typically contracted by inhaling tiny droplets of contaminated water containing these bacteria.

As a tenant, here's what you can do to minimise the risk of legionnaires' disease in your home.

1. Maintain Proper Water Temperatures

It is crucial to ensure that the hot water in your system stays hot, and the cold water remains cold. In particular:

2. Shower Maintenance

If your rental property has a shower, you should take the following precautions:

3. Vacant Periods

If your property is left vacant for any period, ensure that when it's occupied again, both hot and cold water systems are flushed through by running all outlets for at least 2 minutes.

Responsibility and Cooperation

It's important to note that legally, your landlord is responsible for taking precautions to prevent the presence of legionella in the hot or cold water system.

However, tenants also have an essential role to play in taking these simple yet crucial precautions.

By cooperating with your landlord and following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of legionnaires' disease within your home.

Conclusion

Safety should always be a top priority in your rented accommodation.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones from potential health risks, such as legionnaires' disease, is not just a responsibility; it's a necessity.

By following the guidelines we've provided in this article, you can ensure that your home is a safe haven where you can relax and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a healthy living environment.

Don't underestimate the power you have in safeguarding your well-being; take action today to mitigate the risks of legionnaires' disease.

Your health and safety are worth it.