Legionella Risk in Hospitality: An Urgent Reminder for Responsible Persons

Recent headlines have highlighted the growing threat of Legionella bacteria in hotels, with a British tourist recently hospitalised in Crete after contracting Legionnaires’ disease. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing legionella risk facing the hospitality sector, particularly hotels, resorts, and accommodation providers.

As travel continues to surge, so does the importance of robust legionella control measures. Responsible persons in hotels must take proactive steps to minimise legionella exposure risks to both guests and staff.

Understanding Legionella Risk in Hotels

Legionella bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water systems—typically between 20°C and 45°C. In hotels, common sources of legionella contamination include:

• Showers and taps in guest rooms

• Spa pools and hot tubs

• Cooling towers and air conditioning systems

• Unused water outlets in unoccupied rooms or seasonal facilities

According to recent figures, EU/EEA countries reported nearly 900 travel-associated Legionella cases in 2021, a significant increase that correlates with warmer weather and higher tourist volumes. This reinforces the need for enhanced vigilance, especially during the peak travel season.

Legal and Reputational Risks

Failing to manage legionella risk effectively exposes hotels to:

• Health & safety violations

• Civil liability claims from affected guests

• Reputational damage through negative media coverage

• Potential closure or enforcement action from health authorities

Hotels must demonstrate compliance with HSE Approved Code of Practice (L8) and ensure Water Safety Plans are current and actively managed.

Essential Legionella Risk Control Measures for Responsible Persons

To minimise legionella risk in your hotel, SMS Environmental recommends the following best practices:

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Legionella Risk Assessment
   Regularly review and update your risk assessments, particularly after refurbishment, system changes, or periods of low occupancy.

2. Implement a Written Scheme of Control
   Ensure all control measures, such as temperature checks, flushing regimes, and cleaning schedules are clearly defined and followed.

3. Monitor and Record Water System Performance
   Maintain accurate logs of temperature monitoring, biocide dosing, and inspection activities. Use remote monitoring where applicable.

4. Test for Legionella Bacteria
   Carry out routine Legionella testing, especially in high-risk areas such as spas and cold water storage tanks.

5. Staff Training and Awareness
   Ensure all employees and contractors are aware of the signs of legionella contamination and are trained in the importance of preventative maintenance.

Why choose SMS Environmental for Legionella Risk Management?

At SMS Environmental, we support hospitality businesses in achieving compliance and safeguarding guests against legionella risk. Our services include:

• Legionella risk assessments

• Water hygiene monitoring and testing

• Training for responsible persons

• Water Safety Consultancy

Don’t Let Legionella Jeopardise Your Business

With increasing scrutiny on water safety and rising cases of travel-associated Legionnaires’ disease, it’s more important than ever to stay compliant and proactive. If you are a responsible person in a hotel or hospitality setting, now is the time to review your legionella control strategy.

Contact SMS Environmental today to ensure your water systems are safe, compliant, and effectively managed.