If you’re re-opening buildings that have been shut for a long period due to the pandemic then this white paper can help you ensure you do so safely.

Produced in conjunction with our partners at The Water Retail Company, it explains in detail what the risks are, what you need to consider and what action you can take to ensure your building is safe. 

Many buildings were closed suddenly and have been left vacant for months. This means that stagnant water has been sitting in pipes and boilers and appliances. Tap water is chlorinated in the UK to prevent bacterial growth, but the effects of the chlorine will have worn off and biofilms and bacteria will be building up in water systems.

Water contamination can kill, especially when Legionella bacteria are present. It is essential that businesses think about water quality and take action before they reopen buildings. Employers and landlords have a legal duty of care to staff and customers, and specific duties to prevent
exposure to Legionella.

This note gives some guidance on the actions businesses should take before reopening, so that they can bounce back from lockdown with as few problems as possible.