Legionella pneumophila, better known as the legionnaire’s disease bacteria, is a genuine public health problem.

Legionellae are living bacteria that develop mainly in the calcium carbonates and iron oxides that constitute their favourite nesting place. They build up in all artificial environments and contaminate hot water and cooling systems.

Every year they kill more than 50 people in Switzerland (FOPH 2006 statistics) and more than 2500 people in France (CSTB 2006).

The degree of dilapidation of buildings and pipes therefore constitutes an aggravating risk factor.