The UK’s leading plumber accreditation body is warning that the humble hosepipe could be a danger to drinking water – as well as the risk of developing Legionnaires’ disease. 

Many people don’t realise how ill they can become if the water in the hosepipe “backflows” into their drinking water supply, or becomes contaminated by the potentially lethal bacteria which causes Legionnaires’ disease.

WaterSafe has now teamed up with renowned health expert Dr Susanne Lee, Director of Leegionella Ltd, to develop its top “do’s and don’ts” to help keep people and their hosepipes healthy and safe.

Its hosepipe tips are:

• DO fit an approved double check valve to hosepipes to prevent any water, or contaminants  flowing back into mains drinking water supply
• DON’T place hosepipes in drains, ponds, buckets or watering cans where they can be submerged as contaminated water could be siphoned back into drinking water pipework
• DO turn off hosepipes at the tap and ideally fully disconnect when not in use
• DO fit a self-closing flow control, such as a trigger spray gun, to prevent it being used when unattended
• DO keep hoses somewhere cool and out of the sun
• DO gently run the water out of the hose before using it – without any form of spray attachment on the end
• DON’T use a hosepipe that has been sitting around and full of warm water as any bacteria – including Legionella – can quickly grow.

The advice comes after media reports emerged about the death of a 63-year-old Norfolk grandfather from Legionnaires’ disease, which may have been contracted from working in his garden with a hose.

Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, said: “Sadly many people may not realise how ill they can get if  water in hosepipes “backflows” into the drinking water supply, or becomes contaminated by potentially lethal bacteria, such as Legionella, that can thrive in warm, stagnant water.”

Shirley Cramer CBE, Chief Executive of the Royal Society for Public Health, said: “Getting the message out about hosepipe safety is of great importance for the public’s health. Quick and easy measures can ensure drinking water is kept clear of contaminants to keep people safe.

“The RSPH welcomes WaterSafe’s release of their top hosepipe do’s and don’ts – sensible and practical advice that will help prevent those who follow it from potentially contracting serious diseases such as Legionnaires.”

watersafe.org.uk