Legionella is a type of bacteria that can cause a severe form of pneumonia called Legionnaires’ disease. It is commonly found in freshwater environments such as rivers and lakes, but the bacteria can grow and spread in man-made water building systems like:

• Cooling towers
• Shower-heads and sink faucets 
• Hot tubs
• Decorative fountains and water features
• Hot water tanks and heaters
• Large, complex building systems

Legionella testing in water systems is a process of detecting the presence of Legionella bacteria in natural water used in the systems listed above. The testing is done to ensure that the water in these systems is safe and free from Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease.

How Does Legionella Spreads

Legionella may grow and spread in water systems at a temperature as low as 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Legionella can spread in droplets small enough for people to breathe in. People can get infected with Legionella disease when they breathe in these small droplets of water in the air that contain the bacteria.

Preventing Legionella Growth

Building owners and managers can develop an effective Water Management Programs to reduce their building's risk of developing and spreading Legionella. Legionella-contaminated water systems can also be treated to kill the bacteria.

Contact us to learn more about these services.