AN OXFORDSHIRE independent school has been told it is not adequately controlling the risk of bacteria that causes a potentially fatal form of pneumonia.

Chandlings School in Bagley Wood, Kennington, has been issued an improvement notice from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) over its risk assessment and control of the legionella bacteria, which causes deadly Legionnaire’s Disease.

The level of legionella in one hand basin was more than 70 per cent above the level at which the HSE says action is required. The school insisted no legal limits had been broken, and said pupils had never been put at risk.

Measures are now being taken to address the issues at the school, which is run by the Abingdon-based Cothill Education Trust.

The potentially deadly bacteria occurs naturally in water, but can multiply rapidly in water systems at between 20C and 45C.

The improvement notice was issued by the HSE following a routine visit on January 5.

The letter from inspector Sharron Cripps criticised a risk assessment, and said: “The control measures currently in place were not adequately controlling legionella.”

Cothill Educational Trust bursar Tim Verdon said: “I do not have any concerns about safety.

“This HSE notice relates solely to paperwork, and at no time has there been any danger to pupils, staff or visitors.”

He said a firm had been hired to carry out the necessary work.