Legionella is a dangerous bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease , a severe form of pneumonia contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets. It is not transmitted from person to person or by drinking contaminated water, but only through the air, especially in environments with mists, vapors, or aerosols, such as showers, air conditioning units, or plumbing systems on board.
While it’s often thought that the risk only concerns large cruise ships, boats, yachts, speedboats, and pleasure craft can also pose hidden dangers. Many owners or charterers are unaware of their obligation to ensure the safety of onboard water systems, exposing passengers and crew to potential contamination.
During winter shutdowns or construction sites , stagnant water promotes the formation of biofilm in pipes and tanks, a breeding ground for Legionella. Even well-designed systems can become hazardous without proper maintenance.
To prevent infection, it is essential to adopt a Water Safety Plan specific to each vessel. This must include:
- Periodic Legionella risk assessments
- Control water temperatures (cold below 20°C, hot above 50°C)
- Elimination of “dead zones” in the system
- Quarterly cleaning and descaling of taps and showers
- Regular microbiological sampling
Furthermore, in case of interventions on a construction site or in the dock , it is essential to disinfect the system before reactivating it, to protect technicians and users.
Relying on maritime water safety experts allows for qualified assessments, testing, and training, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
Preventing Legionella on board is not just a choice, but a duty. With proper maintenance and monitoring, the risk can be reduced to zero, ensuring safe and healthy sailing for everyone.
