There has been a rising trend over recent years of outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease associated with wet cooling systems (cooling towers and evaporative condensers). These usually result in serious cases of infection and sometimes fatalities. They also cause considerable public concern and absorb substantial resources from the enforcing authorities.

There is a duty under the Notification of Cooling Towers and Evaporative Condensers Regulations 1992, for occupiers of business premises to notify the relevant local authority (North Devon Council) in writing of details of any cooling towers and evaporative condensers at their premises. The exception is where the cooling tower or evaporative condenser contains no water that is exposed to air and/or their water or electricity supply is not connected. The requirement is to notify North Devon Council, regardless of whether the business is enforced by North Devon Council or Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Requirement to notify is to assist either North Devon Council or HSE in investigating outbreaks of Legionnaires' disease.

Application process

Complete the notification form and send to the contact address below.

On receipt, we will add the notification to the public register. Usually, there will be no further requirement for us to contact you. This would only happen if further clarification is required.

If you haven't heard from the Council within 28 consecutive days of the receipt of the notification, the registration is complete.

Making an application or notifying of a change of circumstances

Complete a notification or change of circumstances online

Fee

There is no fee for the notification.

Contact details

Notifications should be sent to:

The Health, Food and Safety Team
Environmental Health and Housing
North Devon Council
PO Box 379
Barnstaple
Devon
EX32 2GR

Notifications can also be handed to the Customer Service Centre or at the Ilfracombe Centre and the Amory Centre, South Molton.

In case of query, please telephone the Customer Service Centre on 01271 388870 and ask for the Health, Food and Safety Team.

Register

Cooling towers and evaporative condensers register in North Devon

Further information and guidance

Read further information from the HSE, including details about the disease, symptoms and control measures.