University finds legionella bug

The bacteria was found during regular checks

The bacteria which causes legionnaires disease has been found in a Staffordshire University building.

The university said the water system of the Cadman Building, in College Road, Stoke-on-Trent, would now be cleaned through chemical treatment.

It said the legionella bacteria was found during regular checks.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said it was still safe to visit and work in the building and the university would continue to operate normally.

The water system will be cleaned overnight on Tuesday, 29 January.

Further tests

Staffordshire University's head of estates, Paul Taylor, said: "To eliminate these bacteria from the water system we need to introduce a chemical into the water supply which will eliminate any bacteria present.

"This chemical is not suitable for drinking, therefore the process will be carried out overnight.

"The water system will be fully flushed through by the morning of 30 January."

Further tests will then be conducted to ensure the bacteria has been removed.