Infections caused by legionella. Legionnaires’ disease is a lifethreatening form of pneumonia caused by legionella pneumophila bacteria. The business risks are: closure during outbreak investigation; clean up costs; claims from employees and third parties; business interruption when nearby attraction closes due to outbreak. Property owners may suffer void periods and lower rents. Relevant statutory requirements include HSWA and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992. Insurance solutions include business interruption cover, clean up costs cover and legionellosis liability.

A claims-made policy covering liability for third party injury caused by legionellosis arising out of the business. The risk arises from recirculating hot and cold water systems. Insurers regard third party claims as ‘gradual pollution’ claims and thus exclude them under public liability insurance. Cover is granted under legionellosis liability cover. The employers’ liability policy responds to legionellosis claims as specific diseases cannot be excluded under this compulsory form of insurance.