Carehome Heavily Fined For Safety Breaches

Cases of Legionella outbreaks have become more frequent in the UK in 2018, with the latest figures revealing a recent spike in incidents. Many of the cases reported have occurred within the premises of hospitality facilities and in residential homes, where there are plentiful risk factors; not least the proximity to much-used water sources and a high concentration of potentially-vulnerable people. One case study from 2012, in which the affected site was a residential care facility operated by a prominent care provider, resulted in a fatality attributed to Legionnaires disease. The disease is the result of deadly Legionella bacteria being inhaled in water particles, and it can present with respiratory problems and flu-like symptoms. The elderly, those with underlying health concerns and heavy drinkers & smokers are particularly susceptible to the disease, as it tends to affect those with compromised immune systems. For this reason, residential care facilities must ensure that operational water hygiene protocols are in line with government regulations and that all contractors have received relevant water hygiene training before carrying out any work. The facility in question was heavily fined for their culpability in the death, and a judge ruled that they were entirely responsible for ensuring the safety of residents and the prevention of such health risks. This took into account recent pressures relating to health and social care funding. The facility has been closed since 2016. Up-to-date and comprehensive water hygiene training is essential for facilities managers in care-homes, leisure centres and other hospitality industries. Proper training allows for staff to be made aware of risk factors, and for thorough testing to be carried out on a regular basis. This reduces the risk of Legionella outbreak to the public and to staff, while also ensuring public confidence in your facility.

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We provide a wide range of City & Guilds Accredited Legionella (Water Hygiene) training courses designed for ACOP L8 compliance View our courses here Training is available across the UK with 2019 dates now available at our centres in York and Slough and at our venue in Falkirk. For more information contact our friendly Account Managers on 0333 121 1215 or email info@ppltraining.co.uk.