The new guidance highlights a significant change in the requirements imposed upon landlords of residential properties
Sheffield, Yorkshire (PRWEB UK) 16 April 2014
The latest publication recently released by the HSE, HSG274 (part 2) highlights the requirements for the control of legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems. The new guidance highlights a significant change in the requirements imposed upon landlords of residential properties who will now be required to ensure all properties have undergone a risk assessment. Recognising the scale of the challenges faced by some larger organisations the guidance goes on to state.
‘It may be impractical to risk assess every individual residential unit, eg where there are a significant number of units under the control of the landlord, such as Housing Associations or Councils. In such cases, a representative proportion of the premises for which they have responsibility should initially be assessed, on the basis of similar design, size, age and water supply, with the entire estate eventually assessed on a rolling programme of work.’(Health & Safety Guidance doc 274)
While welcomed by many, the changes have raised concern in some quarters with water management and legionella professionals raising concerns that the demand within the residential letting sector will encourage ‘cowboy’ organisations to flourish as sub standard service providers scramble to take advantage of the increased demands.
Chris Senior, director of Euro Environmental Ltd, a firm specialising in legionella management, said, ‘While the new guidance is welcome, it's imperative that landlords and letting agents seek advice and guidance through organisations such as the Legionella Control Association to ensure competent specialists are employed to conduct the risk assessments.’
For more information and advice on how the new legislation will impact UK landlords, housing associations and letting agents download the free booklet or visit http://www.euroenvironmental.co.uk
About Euro Environmental Ltd:
Euro Environmental is a national provider of occupational health & safety services throughout the UK specialising in legionella, asbestos, workplace exposure & noise monitoring.
The company provides professional consultancy, site assessments and laboratory services to both the private and public sectors and is an approved member of the Legionella Control Association.