HGV Drivers Legionnaires’ Risk

In a recent study led by the Health Protection Agency, it was found that people who drive regularly are more likely to be at risk from Legionnaires’ Disease.  ‘Professional’ drivers, for example people who drive a van daily as part of their trade, or heavy goods vehicles, are most at risk.  These vehicles are also commonly driving through industrial areas, increasing the risk further.  People in this category are five times more likely to contract legionnaires’. Having the window open also increases exposure.  It is feared that at least twenty per cent of all cases of legionnaires’ disease may be due to exposure from driving.

Drivers who do not use screenwash are at an even greater risk as it was found that screenwash kills off the legionella bacterium.  The study shows that the legionella bacterium was found in one in five cars that did not have screenwash but in no cars that did.  “Not adding screenwash to windscreen wiper fluid is a previously unidentified risk factor and appears to be strongly associated with community acquired sporadic cases of legionnaires’ disease.”  Drivers are now being strongly urged to add screenwash to their windscreen water.

The legionella bacterium breeds in stagnant, warm water which causes a potentially fatal lung infection.  The report, published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, stated “this simple public health advice may be of worldwide relevance in reducing morbidity and mortality from Legionnaires’ disease.” 

The findings highlight another potential area in which personnel in industry can be exposed to legionella.  Suitable risk assessments and inspections should be carried out on all company vehicles before use and vehicles should be regularly maintained using appropriate cleaning fluids and substances.

For more information on Legionnaires’ Disease, please click here to visit the HSE website