“Legionella Risk Management in Building Water Systems: Current Perspectives from Industry Practitioners” (2026), by Hao Xi et al. Genetics and Biochemistry research paper. Original abstract below, unchanged. A free PDF is available.

Legionella Risk Management in Building Water Systems: Current Perspectives from Industry Practitioners

Hao Xi, Kirstin Ross, Greg Falzon et al. · November 3, 2026 · Genetics and Biochemistry

Abstract

Building water systems are internationally recognised reservoirs for opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens, including Legionella , the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease. Inadequate design, operation and maintenance can promote Legionella proliferation and expose building occupants to potentially fatal infection. Effective management is therefore critical; however, there is limited international evidence regarding how guidelines for controlling Legionella risk are implemented in practice. Despite extensive Australian guidance, little is known about the practical management of Legionella risk in building water systems. This study explored current practices among hydraulic engineers, facility managers, plumbers, and water retreatment consultants. An online survey with follow-up interviews was conducted and the responses were then compared with existing guidelines and historical case studies published in the literature. Four themes were identified in the reported Legionella control practices: establishing a risk management system, analysing risks, managing risks, and implementing interventions, of which managing risks was most frequently identified. Case studies demonstrated substantial variability in how practitioners select and apply interventions, reflecting the complexity and diversity of building water systems. Insufficient maintenance and poor system design emerged as the leading contributors to Legionella proliferation, while control measures failed primarily due to incorrect or inappropriate selection. Budget constraints and lack of knowledge were identified as the major barriers to implementing effective and sustained control strategies. These findings are of international relevance, highlighting the need for control measures underpinned by risk assessment and comprehensive system monitoring and providing an evidence base to strengthen guidelines for effective Legionella management in building water systems globally.

Free PDF DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2026.115530