BOMA Releases Prevention Guide for Legionella
Contributed by BSM Staff

WASHINGTON -- In response to the recent Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York, BOMA International is offering guidance to help commercial building owners and managers assess risks, strengthen water management practices, and prevent the spread of Legionella bacteria.

The outbreak resulted in dozens of reported cases and several deaths, underscoring the importance of proactive building water system management.

“While health officials have contained the immediate threat, this outbreak serves as an important reminder that Legionella prevention requires ongoing vigilance,” said Kjersten Jaeb, CEO of BOMA International. “Building owners and managers play a critical role in maintaining safe water systems, and BOMA is committed to providing the resources needed to support those efforts.”

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. The disease is not spread from person to person and cannot be contracted through drinking water. Infection occurs when individuals inhale aerosolized water droplets containing the bacteria, which can develop in building systems, including cooling towers, hot water systems, decorative fountains, and other water features.

Although the recent outbreak occurred in New York City, Legionella risk management is a concern for building owners and operators nationwide. To support the commercial real estate industry, BOMA International offers comprehensive guidance and best practices for preventing, identifying, and responding to Legionella-related risks.

Refer to ASHRAE 188-2021, LEGIONELLOSIS: RISK MANAGEMENT FOR BUILDING WATER SYSTEMS; it establishes minimum legionellosis risk management requirements for building water systems.

It describes environmental conditions that promote the growth of Legionella and includes suggestions, recommendations, and references to additional guidelines.

BOMA’s Legionella Guidance Document is available at boma.org..

The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International, founded in 1907, is a federation of U.S. local associations and global affiliates. It serves as a primary source of information on building management and operations, leasing, building operating costs, energy consumption patterns, local and national building codes, technological developments, and industry trends.