Water safety

Water hygiene

The mechanical and electrical (M&E) water team are responsible for carrying out servicing to reduce the risk of legionella in blocks that contain communal tanks.

Legionnaires' disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by the inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water containing legionella. All man-made hot and cold water systems are likely to provide an environment where legionella can grow.

There is no need for concern. Legionnaires' disease is easily preventable by putting in place some simple control measures.

What precautions can I take?

From a safe distance, run your showers and taps for 5 minutes following a period of non-use. For example, when you move in, after you have been on holiday or if a room is not in regular use.

Keep all shower heads and taps clean and free from a build-up of lime scale, mould or algae growth. Regular cleaning every 3 months will help sterilise and kill any bacteria.

Do not adjust the hot water on your boiler system at a temperature of 60oC or greater. Warning: Be aware of scalding!

Report any deposits such as rust or any unusual matter flowing from your taps.

To raise a repair, please call the customer services centre on 0800 023 4499 (free from landlines and mobiles).

Further information

Legionella and Legionnaires' disease - HSE

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