Offices
Legionella risk assessment for offices
Offices look low risk. But hot desking and quiet floors leave taps and showers unused for weeks. That is when legionella has a chance to grow.
The risks we see in offices
- Showers for cyclists and runners that are used one week and not the next.
- Tea points and kitchens on floors that are only partly occupied.
- Toilets and basins on floors left empty after a reduction in staff.
- Dead legs left behind after a refit.
- Cold water pipes that run warm through ceiling voids.
Landlord and tenant duties
In a multi let building the landlord usually controls the shared system. That includes tanks and risers and the common parts. The tenant controls what sits inside their own space.
A landlord's assessment does not cover the tenant. If you have staff or visitors using water in your space you need to assess that risk too. We can work alongside the landlord's contractor so both assessments fit together.
What a typical office needs
A risk assessment and a written scheme. Monthly temperature checks and weekly flushing of quiet outlets. Showerhead cleaning every three months if you have showers. Most of the checks can be done by a trained member of your team.
Questions
Common questions
Our landlord handles the water system. Do we need our own assessment?
Usually yes. The landlord covers the shared system. You must assess the risk from the water your staff and visitors use inside your space.
We only have a few taps and a kitchen. Do we still need one?
Yes. Every workplace with a water system needs an assessment. For a simple system it can be short and a trained person on site can often do it.
Do office showers need special attention?
Yes. Showers create a fine spray that can be breathed in. Flush them weekly if they are not used and clean the heads every three months.
Find out what your building actually needs
Book a survey and we will give you a fixed quote. You will also get an honest view of what you can safely do in house.
Request a survey