The legionella outbreak in Barrow-in-Furness has claimed three lives so far and 125 people are being treated for symptoms of the disease
This, Britain's worst legionella outbreak in a decade, has highlighted the need for proper maintenance of water services.

The Police are investigating the deaths from exposure at the site. This will include an inspection of the maintenance record of the air conditioning unit at the arts centre thought to be responsible for the outbreak.

If fault is found with the maintenance of the unit, the owner could be deemed responsible for the deaths. This was laid down in an Approved Code of Practice in 1991 and updated in 2000 – (ACoP) L8 2000 from the HSE.

In a statement issued following the Barrow-in-Furness outbreak, the HVCA says that strict adherence to (ACoP) L8 2000 should stop the development of the bacteria. For further information see the HVCA cd-rom Standard maintenance specification for services for buildings – call 01768 860405.

The CIBSE is to hold a course, Legionella: Meeting the new guidelines, on 25 September. For further details go to www.cibsecpd.co.uk