According to a recent ABC News report, Legionnaires' disease cases are rising in Australia. For members of The Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association of WA who provide water testing and sampling services, this is an important topic to raise with commercial and industrial customers.
Unknown before killing multiple people in the United States in 1976, Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
There are over 40 species of Legionella, including one found in cooling towers, air conditioners and other water systems. Infection occurs when people inhale airborne water aerosols carrying bacteria from these sources.
In Western Australia, a Code of Practice for the prevention and control of Legionnaires' disease applies to workplaces covered by either the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 or the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994.
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