Health & Safety Update (July 2010)
Drivers Legionnaires' Risk
A preliminary study, fully funded by the Health Protection
Agency, and published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, has
found a previously unknown association between not using screen
wash in wiper fluid and the risk of contracting Legionnaires'
disease. 'Professional' drivers, such as people who drive a van as
part of their trade, or heavy goods vehicles, were found to be most
at risk. Estimates in the report show that around 20% of all cases
of Legionnaires' disease could be as a result of exposure whilst
driving or as a passenger in the vehicle. One in five vehicles that
didn't use screen wash were positively identified as being
contaminated with Legionella bacteria whilst none of the vehicles
that used screen wash were.
The findings from the report highlight another potential area in
which workers can be exposed to Legionella bacteria. As a control
measure, a suitable risk assessment should be carried out on all
company vehicles and inspections should be carried out before use.
Regular maintenance and the use of appropriate screen wash
solutions can also greatly reduce the risks. Contact your
consultant or the 24/7 Advice Service for more information.