Water Hygiene

Legionella

Although the risk is extremely low, there is a small chance that legionella can develop in your water. This could potentially lead to Legionnaires’ disease - an illness similar to pneumonia.

People can catch Legionnaires’ disease from hot and cold water heating systems which aren’t functioning properly or haven’t been in use for some time. This could result in bacteria developing. Showerheads and taps are the main areas of risk where bacteria can increase to dangerous levels and spread.

On average, there are approximately 500 reported cases of Legionnaire’s disease in the UK each year so it is very rare.

We have recently carried out water hygiene risk assessments to some of our homes to assess any risks to your wellbeing. The risk is extremely low and we have taken appropriate steps were required.

Follow these simple tips to keep your water supply clean and healthy

• Do not interfere with the settings on your boiler or hot water system. The hot water should be set so that the water is heated up to 60°C.
• Keep all shower heads, hoses and taps clean.
• Flush through showers and taps for 10 minutes following a period of non-use, for example after you have been on holiday.
• If showers are used only occasionally then flush them through by running them for at least two minutes every week. Don’t stand near the shower whilst this is being done.
• If you think your shower, taps, boiler or hot water tank aren’t working properly, please let us know. Report it through mySLH or give us a call on 0330 303 3000.

For more advice please download our Water Hygiene Fact Sheet