Hong Kong EMSD reports latest Legionella test results for cooling towers
Hong Kong's Electrical and Mechanical Services Department released updated Legionella bacteria test results for freshwater cooling towers, identifying three cases. Notices were issued to tower owners, who have completed disinfection. Owners reminded to follow maintenance guidelines.
Hong Kong's Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) has released the latest test results for Legionella bacteria in freshwater cooling towers across the city.
According to the EMSD statement published on 8 October 2026, two cases were detected at cooling towers located at Pacific Trade Centre, 2 Kai Hing Road, Kwun Tong, and one case at Luk Hop Industrial Building, 8 Luk Hop Street, Wong Tai Sin.
Under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance, the EMSD issued “nuisance notices” to the owners of the affected cooling towers, requiring them to carry out appropriate disinfection measures. All owners of the affected towers have completed the disinfection work. Detailed information about these cases is available in an appendix to the announcement.
The EMSD updates this information on its website every two weeks. The relevant webpage can be accessed at www.emsd.gov.hk/tc/other_regulatory_services/cooling_towers/water_sampling/index.html.
The department reminded all owners of freshwater cooling towers that they bear responsibility for the proper design, operation and maintenance of their towers. Owners should follow the EMSD's Code of Practice for Freshwater Cooling Towers, which requires regular inspections, timely repairs and routine water quality testing to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria.
