Governor Hochul Signs Legislation Strengthening Inspections on Cooling Towers in New York City

New Law Requires Twice-Yearly Cooling Tower Certifications, Faster Remediation of Health Hazards and Stuffer Penalties for Violations

Requirements Will Help Reduce New Yorkers’ Exposure to Legionella

Governor Kathy Hochul today signed legislation requiring that owners and operators of cooling towers in New York City certify that their cooling towers have been inspected, tested, cleaned, and disinfected in compliance with the New York City Administrative Code. Cooling towers can be the source of bacterial outbreaks such as Legionnaires' disease, which causes flu-like symptoms and can be fatal.. The legislation sets timelines for building owners to notify the New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB) and take steps to remedy any public health hazards in cooling towers and increases civil penalties on building owners who fail to report or address these issues.

“Protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers is my highest priority,” Governor Hochul said. “Recent outbreaks of Legionnaires' disease underscore the urgency of certification requirements, and we look forward to working with the City to ensure New Yorkers are protected against these public health threats.”

The legislation (S08472-A/A09058A) will require biannual certifications taking place in January and July of each year or by dates specified by NYC DOB. In addition, it clarifies that the building owner must take steps to address maintenance deficiencies as soon as possible but no later than 48 hours, and must notify NYC DOB and take steps to address levels of microbes that present a serious health threat as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours. It also increases civil penalties for violations to $2,500 for a first violation, $7,000 for a second or subsequent violation, and up to $12,500 for a violation that results in a fatality or serious injury.

Legionnaires' disease is caused by Legionella bacteria that grow in warm water. The disease spreads through water vapor that contains the bacteria. It is a type of pneumonia that causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough. Anyone who believes they have contracted Legionnaires' disease is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider right away.