Legionella bacteria can grow in the pipes of buildings, cooling towers, indoor fountains, and other water features. Inhaling water droplets containing Legionella can lead to Legionnaire’s Disease, a severe and sometimes deadly form of pneumonia. Buildings that have been closed or hardly used for extended periods of time are particularly susceptible to Legionella growth as residual chlorine disinfectant levels drop or disappear in stagnant plumbing systems. This is particularly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in many idled buildings.

To help prevent Legionella outbreaks from building water systems, the American Chemistry Council has sponsored a free downloadable booklet, “Legionella Management in Building Water Systems: The Role of Chlorine Products,” for building managers, plumbing engineers, and public health officials. The 33-page booklet authored by Dr. Joseph Cotruvo focuses on chlorine-based Legionella control technologies, providing practical information and guidance to help prevent and mitigate Legionella, as well as an overview of relevant regulations and guidelines.