August is Legionella Awareness Month
Every August, the Association of Water Technologies (AWT) joins organizations across the country in raising awareness about legionella and the importance of effective water management. While legionella bacteria occur naturally in freshwater environments, they can become a serious health risk when they grow and spread in building water systems.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia that can affect anyone, but it poses the greatest risk to older adults, smokers, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Fortunately, many cases can be prevented through proper water management, routine monitoring, and industry best practices.
As the leading association for water treatment professionals, AWT is committed to educating building owners, facility managers, healthcare professionals, and the public about practical steps that help reduce the risk of legionella growth.
View AWT’s Official Press Release
Why Legionella Awareness Matters
Building water systems are complex, and stagnant water, improper temperatures, and inadequate maintenance can create conditions where legionella can multiply.
Effective water management programs help organizations:
- Protect building occupants
- Reduce operational risk
- Support regulatory and industry guidance
- Maintain healthy building water systems
- Demonstrate a commitment to public health
Water treatment professionals play a critical role in helping facilities implement these programs through testing, monitoring, treatment, and ongoing system management.
Free Resources
The AWT Legionella Resource Page
The Scaling UP Legionella Resource Page
Downloadable Resources
These resources are free to use for AWT Members!
- Legionella 101 Guide — An easy-to-understand overview explaining what Legionnaires’ disease is, how it spreads, common symptoms, and who is most at risk.
- Legionella Prevention Tips — A quick-reference handout with practical steps that building owners and facility managers can take to help reduce risk.
- Template Press Release — A customizable news release members can use to highlight their organization’s commitment to water safety.
- Facility Awareness Poster — A printable poster that can be displayed in offices, facilities, or break rooms to promote awareness.
- Frequently Asked Questions — Answers to common questions about legionella, water management programs, and prevention.
