Following the recent government announcement that Step 2 of the roadmap out of lockdown is to begin on 12 April as planned, Solihull Council is reminding businesses and those managing buildings of their maintenance responsibilities prior to reopening.
Various businesses will be permitted to reopen on Monday 12 April, and many of these buildings will have been empty or at reduced occupancy during the most recent lockdown period. This means there is an increased risk of Legionella bacteria being present in the water systems.
Legionnaires’ disease can be caught through inhaling airborne droplets of water where the bacteria is present. Men over 50, smokers, those with chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
If you own or are responsible for building maintenance you are asked to help minimise the risk from Legionella as part of your preparations to open. All the latest advice and information is available in this document.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) also has a webpage dedicated to changes related to workplace safety during the pandemic as coronavirus restrictions ease. It also provides details of advice from public health bodies and other government departments on requirements that aren’t enforced by the HSE and links to their guidance.