Legionella Prevention
Biological Hazards | 10-15 min
Summary
Legionella bacteria in water systems can cause Legionnaires' disease, a severe and potentially fatal form of pneumonia. The CDC reports approximately 10,000 cases of Legionnaires' disease annually in the United States, with a fatality rate of 10-25% even with treatment. The bacteria grows in warm water between 77°F and 113°F, thrives in stagnant conditions, and is transmitted when people breathe in mist or vapor containing the bacteria. Notably, it cannot be spread person-to-person.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- Legionella grows in warm, stagnant water
- Cooling towers and hot water systems are common sources
- Develop and follow a water management program
- Maintain proper water temperatures and disinfection
- Investigate clusters of pneumonia cases promptly
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.