Specialists in Legionella risk assessments, consultancy and training services for all aspects of water monitoring, control and hygiene, Primary Water Solutions is an independent company that cares. With decades of experience in the Oxford area working with councils, NHS hospitals and health centres, landlords, schools, colleges, facilities management and health and safety companies, we are relied upon time and time again for our outstanding service, expertise and attention to detail to ensure that all our clients and those in their care are kept safe and away from harm.
As full members of the Contractors Health & Safety Assessment Scheme and Legionella Control Associations (the recommended code of conduct for service providers), rest assured that the services we provide and carried out to the highest of standards and take on board your dedicated needs and requirements. Fully compliant and qualified in accordance with HSE and HSC guidelines, each and every one of our onsite surveyors are members of the Water Management Society that delivers positive outcomes in a professional manner. Our mission is to lower the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria and provide leading guidance to help our clients better understand the dangers in order to overcome and operate positively for a better future.
Identified initially in America in 1976, Legionella has over the years become a serious form of bacteria that can be detrimental to human health. For some it can cause a potentially problematic and at times fatal respiratory disease called Legionnaires’ Disease. Infecting the lungs in the form of pneumonia, individuals can face exposure to Legionella bacteria by inhaling mist or water droplets. This bacteria in water systems can be found among air conditioning systems, cooling towers, plumbing and hot and cold water systems such as showers or spas.
Despite not being transmitted through person-to-person contact there are a number of control measures that need to be carried out in order to reduce the risk, this includes disinfection of water systems in industrial settings, hospitality and buildings. The control of Legionella bacteria is key to lowering the risk of infection, particularly for those with weak immune systems, underlying health conditions and amongst older adults. The outcome can be severe with symptoms such as shortness of breath, muscle aches, cough and high fever which can lead to more serious concerns. Usually treated with antibiotics when diagnosed early, it’s essential to get medical attention as soon as possible by a professional.
The first and most important way to reduce the risk of any exposure to bacteria is to have a Legionella risk assessment carried out by a certified team such as Primary Water Solutions. A legal duty under health and safety legislation for employers, businesses, duty holders and tenants that lease premises, this not only demonstrates that you are complying with health and safety law but also looking after those in your care – whether that’s employers or visitors alike. The Approved Code of Practice (ACoP L8, HSG 274) under the Health and Safety at Work Act showcases that due diligence has been carried out with the control of substances hazardous to health and that the risk to individuals is at a minimum.
Similar rules apply for landlords who are renting out a whole home or even just one room, in order to protect your tenants. By completing the risk assessment which is a legal requirement you’re protecting yourself from being fined and other larger consequences such as prosecution. This also gives estate agents and occupants peace of mind that the documentation is in place and regular maintenance is carried out on all water systems for good practice.
When searching for a reputable company to carry out a comprehensive Legionella risk assessment in Oxford, Primary Water Solutions is a first choice for many in the area. We understand and have a great understanding of many buildings and outlets which may face exposure to legionella bacteria and require the assistance of an experienced team of surveyors and consultants who can deliver the best results on a time scale that works for you. Our attention to completing a thorough risk assessment and providing leading advice along the way for maintenance and managing the control of exposure makes us one of the finest in the industry.