PENDLE Council is urging local businesses to make sure people are safe from Legionnaire’s Disease risks, which are associated with hot and cold water systems.
The council’s Environmental Health team will be carrying out a number of initiatives to promote better control of legionella risks with residential care homes, hotels and leisure facilities.
They will be given advice on managing legionella risks, and compliance checks will be carried out at premises where the risks could be greater.
The council already carries out regular checks on council buildings such as offices, community halls and sports pavilions.
Coun. John David, who represents environmental health in Pendle, said: “We are pleased to be working with the Health and Safety Executive and other local councils to help keep Pendle safe for our residents and visitors. I would stress that we do not have a history of Legionnaire’s Disease outbreaks in Pendle.
“However, we don’t want to be complacent and it is important to be active in preventing outbreaks as the fatal consequences of this disease can’t be ignored.
“I am sure that we will get a very positive response from our local business community as we work together on this issue.”
Mr Philip Mousdale, Pendle Council’s executive director (services) and deputy chief executive, added: “Following the high profile outbreaks around the country this year, the Health and Safety Executive is keen to raise awareness and we wish to fully support this co-ordinated national initiative.
“Information and guidance on managing legionella is readily available and our Environmental Health officers want to make sure that Pendle’s businesses are aware of this and are carrying out what they should be doing already.”
A wide range of free information on managing health and safety risks, including legionella, is available on the HSE’s website at www.hse.gov.uk