Fountains generating aerosols may constitute a potential source of exposure to Legionella pneumophila, the bacterium responsible for legionellosis (a respiratory infection transmitted through inhalation of contaminated aerosols). For this reason, such installations fall under the regulatory framework set out in the French Public Health Code (Code de la santé publique) and related implementing decrees concerning collective water misting systems used in public spaces.
Legal basis (France)
The main legal texts applicable are:
Decree No. 2017-657 of 27 April 2017 on the prevention of risks related to collective water misting systems
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000034512653
Order (Arrêté) of 7 August 2017 laying down technical and procedural rules to ensure the sanitary safety of collective water misting systems
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000035427514
With regard to water quality standards (reference to water intended for human consumption):
Order of 11 January 2007 (as amended) relating to quality limits and reference values for water intended for
human consumption
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/loda/id/JORFTEXT000000465574
Legionella pneumophila can cause serious health effects. This bacterium is responsible for legionellosis, an acute respiratory disease that may manifest as severe pneumonia (Legionnaires’ disease) or as a milder flu-like illness (Pontiac fever). Infection occurs through the inhalation of contaminated water aerosols. Individuals at higher risk include elderly persons, immunocompromised individuals, smokers, and people with chronic diseases. In severe cases, the disease may lead to hospitalization, serious complications, or even death.
In light of the above, strict compliance with applicable sanitary requirements is essential to ensure the protection of public health.
Health authorities (Regional Health Agencies – ARS – and the Prefect) may:
conduct inspections,
require compliance measures,
issue administrative orders prohibiting operation.
Under Article L.1337-10 of the Public Health Code:
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/article_lc/LEGIARTI000031918384
a fine of up to €15,000 may be imposed for failure to comply with a prohibition order.
In addition, criminal liability may apply under Article 221-6 of the Penal Code in cases of health damage resulting from negligence:
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/article_lc/LEGIARTI000006417239
Discover fully prefabricated fountain water treatment station
The filtration station is specifically designed to significantly reduce the risk of Legionella pneumophila proliferation in decorative fountains generating aerosols.
The system enhances sanitary safety by addressing the main risk factors associated with Legionella development:
1. Continuous Water Treatment and Filtration
The integrated filtration unit removes suspended solids, organic matter, and biofilm precursors that may promote bacterial growth. By improving overall water quality, the system limits the nutrients and environmental conditions that facilitate microbial proliferation.
2. Optimized Water Circulation
The station ensures controlled and continuous water circulation, reducing stagnation zones (“dead legs”), which are one of the primary factors contributing to Legionella multiplication.
3. Compatibility with Disinfection Systems
The filtration station can operate in combination with approved disinfection methods (e.g., UV treatment or controlled chemical dosing), further strengthening microbiological control and supporting compliance with regulatory thresholds (< 10 CFU/L for Legionella pneumophila).
4. Simplified Compliance
Designed as a compact, plug-and-play solution, the system facilitates installation, operation, and maintenance. It supports operators in meeting French sanitary requirements by:
improving baseline water quality,
stabilizing operational parameters,
reducing corrective interventions,
supporting a preventive risk management strategy.