Guide to the role of authorising engineer

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the dangers caused by Legionnaires' disease, Legionella Control International says there has been a surge in demand for expert water services Authorising Engineers. This ‘hybrid’ risk management role blends a myriad of skills including engineering, building services, microbiology and health and safety.

Yet despite the role’s many benefits, most organisations remain ignorant about what Authorising Engineers do, why they’re important and how to appoint a suitably qualified expert. Legionella Control International is shedding light on the matter with the release of a handbook called 'Guide to the Role of the Authorising Engineer (Water)'.

The manual offers clients a detailed overview of what the role encompasses and how it can increase operational efficiency, improve management effectiveness and reduce organisational risk.

Jamie Tranter, general manager at Legionella Control International said, "Legionnaires' disease is preventable if suitable precautionary measures are in place, but this is not always the case. In the US alone hospital patients fall victim to around 15,000 cases of Legionnaires’ disease every year, with 5 to 10% of these proving to be fatal. It’s an issue that needs to be taken extremely seriously and appointing an expert Authorising Engineer can have a truly positive impact. We’re making the process as easy as possible with a comprehensive guide that covers a range of different topics designed to help organisations make informed decisions.”

The guide is written to help organisations better understand the Authorising Engineer role and covers a range of need-to-know topics. These include the following:

•  What is an Authorising Engineer for Water?

•  What does an Authorising Engineer do?

•  What are the benefits of using an Authorising Engineer?

•  What qualifications are required?

•  Organisational support

•  What legislation and guidance?