We've all heard of legionnaires' disease outbreaks in public areas, but legionella bacteria can thrive anywhere the conditions are perfect. There have been a few isolated examples of persons contracting legionnaires from more uncommon or ordinary settings.
Garden Water Butts
Water butts appear to be an excellent method to gather water for the garden, however, ninety-five percent of water butts contain legionella bacteria – not a pleasant thought.
When watering the lawn with conserved water, use a watering can rather than a hose or sprinkler to prevent breathing in possibly contaminated water droplets.
Hot Tubs
In a hot tub, the ideal water temperature is around 36-37°C. While this is a perfect temperature for humans to unwind, it is also good for legionella. The bacteria can be inhaled by inhaling water vapour or mist. As a result, owners must ensure that their hot tubs are adequately disinfected.
Garden Hoses
In 2017, a man died after cleaning his patio with an infected garden hose. The hose had been left outside in the sun, creating ideal breeding circumstances for legionella — stagnant water and a heated environment. Although such incidents are uncommon, they do occur.
Swimming Pools
Even though the water temperature in swimming pools is lower than that in hot tubs, legionella can still grow, especially in locations where water or slime puddles gather. Outbreaks are more common during the summer, so if you manage a swimming pool, make sure it is routinely cleansed and disinfected to reduce the possibility of legionella development.
Cooling Mist
Cooling mist is appealing, especially on a hot day. In 2017, 22 visitors to Disneyland in California breathed water droplets contaminated with legionnaires' disease. So it's not always as great as it might seem.
Legionella, as you can see, can flourish in a variety of environments. If you have any doubts about the safety of your water system, contact a professional like those at Assured Water Hygiene who can analyse the degree of risk and provide recommendations to assist you in decreasing the danger of legionella.