ASSE Book Review
Legionellae Control in Health Care Facilities: A Guide for Minimizing Risk

Professional Safety (July 1997), American Society of Safety Engineers. Reviewed by Cherryl M. Crouch, CSP; Arlington Heights, IL

This is an excellent reference book for any facility (healthcare or otherwise) that either is concerned about legionellae in its water systems or wants to establish a proactive program to reduce the risk of legionellae. The book provides enough information to permit the reader to develop his/her own program and, thus, is a valuable resource whether the program is developed in-house or by an outside consultant.

For each step in the process -- understanding health concerns, developing action plans, establishing preventive measures, performing environmental sampling, disinfecting sources of legionellae , responding to an outbreak -- the book covers the information needed to address the issue. Cost estimates for methods of sampling and disinfection are provided as well.

This book is appropriate reading both the experienced and novice professional. Background information is kept to a minimum, as this is intended to be a how-to book. Extensive references are provide for the reader who wants more information. In addition, the book contains a list of relevant contact names, addresses and telephone numbers, along with the individual’s area of expertise. Also included are questions to ask when calling for information or when calling manufacturers. Questions to ask when selecting a laboratory to perform sample analysis (one of the book’s most extensive lists) could easily be modified for use when selecting a lab to analyze industrial hygiene samples.