Keep the whole of the club as safe as possible.
This RFU Risk Assessment covers male and female changing room provision and use, including the showering and water closet facilities. Accidents can arise from slips and trips in wet areas such as showers, scalds from hot water in taps and showers. Poorly maintained shower heads, hot and cold water not stored at the correct temperature can result in deadly legionella bacteria being present in water droplets.
Hygiene and cross infection issues can arise from changing rooms that are not cleaned regularly or do not have facilities to dispose of soiled dressings following matches. Part of the risk assessment process might identify that there are control measures which are not currently in place, in which case these will be detailed in the action plan. The action plan may detail what you have to do or may refer you to other websites or organisations that can help.
What is legionella?
Legionella bacteria is commonly found in water. The bacteria multiply where temperatures are between 20-45°C and nutrients are available. The bacteria are dormant below 20°C and do not survive above 60°C.
Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal type of pneumonia, contracted by inhaling airborne water droplets containing viable Legionella bacteria. Such droplets can be created, for example, by: hot and cold water outlets; atomisers; wet air conditioning plant; and whirlpool or hydrotherapy baths.
Stagnant water favours Legionella growth. To reduce the risk you should remove dead legs/dead ends in pipe-work, flush out infrequently used outlets (including showerheads and taps) at least weekly and clean and de-scale shower heads and hoses at least quarterly. Cold-water storage tanks should be cleaned periodically and water should be drained from hot water cylinders to check for debris or signs of corrosion.
RFU Advice for Clubs:
The advice we provide, is as part of the Risk Assessment Tool – Printed version here.
We sign post to the HSE – Free download book - Legionnaires' disease. The control of legionella bacteria in water systems - Approved Code of Practice and guidance - here.
Club can also discuss with the RFU Legal Helpline – Health & Safety queries including Legionnaires on 0330 303 1877
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