ASSE International, in collaboration with Special Pathogens Laboratory, is developing a new professional qualifications standard. This standard will define the general knowledge requirements for conducting facility risk assessments and implementing water management programs to prevent infections due to Legionella and other waterborne pathogens. The draft title is Professional Qualifications Standard for Legionella Water Management Specialists.

The objective of the standard is to establish the minimum training and education needed to qualify as a knowledgeable professional and a resource for building water management teams. This standard will provide minimum criteria, identified by industry consensus, to ensure compliance with the regulations, standards, and codes relating to Legionella building water safety and risk management. These professionals will be qualified to assist in implementing evidence-based practices to minimize the growth and transmission of Legionella and other opportunistic pathogens in building water systems.

The working group is holding its first meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at the ASSE International office in Mokena, Ill.