Water system disinfected after bacteria found in Portcullis House

The water system in Portcullis House has undergone disinfection after low levels of legionella bacteria were detected through monitoring and sampling. All outlets were closed while disinfection took place on 11 June. The showers and fifth floor tea point in Portcullis House were also temporarily shut down following the discovery; they will be restored to normal use if bacteria counts improve.

A House of Commons spokesperson said: “As part of our routine proactive monitoring, our maintenance team have identified low levels of legionella bacteria in some isolated areas in Portcullis House.

“As a precautionary measure in line with best practice, we have temporarily closed the showers and a tea point affected while we undertake a disinfection of the water system in line with normal protocols. All other water sources in the building continue to be safe to use as normal.”