Legionella can proliferate in large, complex water systems that are poorly maintained. If water droplets containing these bacteria are inhaled, it can result in Legionnaires’ disease. 

Work Health & Safety legislation requires employers to ensure the health and safety of workers, so far as is reasonably practicable. This includes the provision of a work environment without risks to health and safety, including air that is safe to breathe.

To minimise the risk of Legionella, WorkSafe encourages those with responsibility for management of air-handling and water systems to maintain and test them in accordance with standards.

The Code of practice - Prevention and control of Legionnaires’ disease provides more information about the standards, and your obligations. This code of practice applies to all workplaces in Western Australia covered by either the OSH Act or the MSI Act. It provides: 

• general guidance for employers, people in control of workplaces, designers, manufacturers, suppliers and workers on the identification and control of safety and health hazards and risks associated with Legionnaires’ disease; and 
• information on key legislative requirements in the OSH Act, the OSH Regulations, the MSI Act and the MSI Regulations as they relate to Legionnaires’ disease.