Between 5 June and 15 July 2012 four people died as a result of a legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Edinburgh. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive and Lothian and Borders Police into the circumstances of the deaths began immediately under the direction of the specialist Health and Safety Division of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
The investigation involved detailed analysis of samples from a number of sites in an effort to identify the source of the bacteria that caused the deaths of four people. Unfortunately, it has proved impossible to identify the source of the Legionella bacteria which resulted in the deaths of four people. As a result Crown Counsel has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prosecute any person or organisation for the deaths.
The decision on whether or not to hold a Fatal Accident Inquiry is yet to be made. This decision will be made following consultation with the families.
As a result of the investigation a number of Reports were submitted to the Crown Office for breaches of Health and Safety regulations unrelated to the deaths of the four people. Crown Counsel have instructed that a number of companies be prosecuted on Indictment in relation to those breaches. [Source: Crown Office Media Release, 8 April 2015. http://www.copfs.gov.uk/media-site/media-releases/1023-crown-office-stateme…]
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