Legionella Myth-Busting blog
In this Legionella Myth-Busting blog, we separate fact from fiction, debunk common misconceptions, and share expert insights on water safety and risk management.
Legionella Myth-Busting: Separating Fact from Fiction. Legionella is a name that often sparks concern, but how much of what you’ve heard is true? From common misconceptions about where Legionella thrives to the real risks posed by water systems, misinformation can lead to unnecessary fear—or worse, dangerous complacency.
At Irrigonics, we specialise in smart water management, helping businesses and individuals stay informed and protected. In this myth-busting series, we’ll tackle the biggest misconceptions about Legionella, explain the science behind its spread, and provide practical solutions for risk management.
Are you ready to separate fact from fiction? Let’s dive in
First in our Legionella Myth Series Myth 1
Legionella misunderstandings
In the first of our series of posts busting common myths surrounding water hygiene, here we explain who is at risk of developing complications due to Legionnaire’s disease, and why no one is safe from the threat posed by Legionella in water sources.
A common misconception about Legionnaires’ disease is that only the elderly that are at risk of serious complications.
While this group are indeed more vulnerable due to weaker immune systems, this belief can create a false sense of security among other age groups. In reality, Legionnaires’ disease can affect anyone, and its complications can be severe, regardless of age.
Having an underlying health condition greatly increases the risk of developing serious respiratory illness or pneumonia from Legionnaires’ disease. Individuals with chronic conditions affecting the lungs, heart, kidneys, or other major organs are particularly susceptible.
What’s often overlooked is that middle-aged adults with these conditions may face higher risks of complications than healthy elderly individuals or children. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that no one is immune to the effects of Legionnaire’s disease, and even healthy individuals are at risk of developing these complications.
As industry-certified specialists in water treatment, the Irrigonics team is here to provide a complete range of water hygiene services including Legionella risk assessments, giving you complete peace of mind.
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Myth 2
Legionella misinformation
Next up in our series of water hygiene myth-busting posts, we’re tackling the myth that legionella is expensive to control.
While some effective Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) measures against Legionella, such as regular testing, maintenance, and remediation, may appear expensive, the financial consequences of inaction can far outweigh these costs.
Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks can result in significant medical expenses, legal liabilities, potential fines, and reputational damage to a business. The latter of these has dire long-term implications, as a tarnished reputation discourages repeat business and hinders potential growth.
Control measures can be tailored to fit the budget and specific needs of a facility. Regular maintenance, proper water temperature management, and effective disinfection do not necessarily require extensive resources.
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Legionella Myth-Busting Myth 3
Legionella risk misconceptions
Next we we’re busting another common water hygiene myth: The harmful belief that hot water can kill Legionella.
This belief is misleading and can lead to dangerous practices in attempting to control Legionella. These harmful bacteria thrive in warm environments and can survive and proliferate in poorly maintained hot water systems.
In poorly maintained hot water systems, these bacteria can find ideal conditions to grow and multiply. This is due to factors such as:
- Sediment and scale buildup: These can provide a protective layer for Legionella, shielding it from the heat of the water.
- Stagnant water: If water is not circulating, it can become a breeding ground for Legionella.
- Biofilm: This slimy layer can form on surfaces and provide a hospitable environment for bacteria.
Following a comprehensive Legionella risk assessment, our team can carry out remedial works, including cleaning and treating your equipment and water systems to reduce the risk of Legionella thriving.
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Legionella safety Myth 4
Legionella safety myths
In the 4th of our series of water hygiene myth-busting posts, we’re exploring the importance of regular water system monitoring to avoid the growth of Legionella.
While flushing your water systems is an important practice for preventing the growth of legionella bacteria, relying solely on this method is not enough to ensure safety against contamination.
Legionella bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water, and simply flushing the system may not disrupt the conditions that promote their growth. If water remains stagnant in certain areas, such as dead legs, flushing may fail to reach these zones. As a result, these stagnant sections can gradually become reservoirs for bacteria, even if the rest of the system is flushed regularly.
A proactive approach is key—flush regularly, inspect routinely, and maintain the system to ensure proper management and eliminate dead legs.
Our team members are specially trained to carry out comprehensive remedial works on water systems, including the removal of biofilm and limescale. This, combined with our water system monitoring service, ensures that your business adheres to the latest regulations regarding water hygiene.
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Final post Myth 5
Legionella infection myths
In our fifth and final post of the myth-busting series, we’re tackling the misconception that Legionella spreads from person to person—it doesn’t.
Legionnaires’ outbreaks often affect groups of people in the same location. However, this isn’t due to person-to-person transmission. Rather, they have all been exposed to the same contaminated water system.
Inhaling just 1 or 2 tiny water droplets contaminated with Legionella can lead to Legionnaires’ disease. Showerheads, taps, and spray outlets are some of the most common breeding grounds for Legionella. Regular descaling, cleaning, and disinfection are crucial to minimise risks and ensure safety.
We hope you found our myth-busting series informative.
For more details on any of the services mentioned, please contact email us or call 0333 038 6286.
We offer free reviews of your current water risk management procedures and can tailor a solution to protect your staff and visitors.
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