ASHRAE is asking for the public’s input on its newest recommendations to reduce cases of water-borne Legionnaires’ disease.

The organization formerly known as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers is seeking comments on its guidelines for minimizing legionellosis risks associated with building water systems. Public comments are accepted until Sept. 11.

The guideline, called No. 12, is designed to be used in conjunction with the society’s standard No. 188, “Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there are from 8,000 to 18,000 Legionnaires’ disease cases annually. Ten percent of cases are fatal.

“Public input is a vital step in the development of ASHRAE guidelines,” said Michael Patton, member project committee that handles the standard. “Our goal with Guideline 12 is to have a strong companion document that works in tandem with ASHRAE Standard 188. We invite all interested and affected parties to review and comment on Guideline 12 during its public review period. Doing so will help ASHRAE and SSPC 188 create better resources that help building owners minimize the risk of Legionellosis.”