Legionella in Healthcare
The risk from Legionella bacteria developing in healthcare sites is no greater than in similar sized systems at other types of sites. But, healthcare sites typically include people susceptible to Legionella bacterial infection and this increased risk must be taken into account.
To help manage the risk the HSE’s ACOP L8 and HTM 04-01 from the Department of Health require much higher standards of system design, plumbing, assessment, control and prevention measures.
The Department of Health recommend using Water Safe registered plumbers and specialist contractors to assess and manage the risk from Legionella bacteria. Failure to assess and manage the risk correctly can have serious consequences.
A 2026 coroners report into the death of Rhoda Freedman points to “numerous missed opportunities” to minimise the risk of Legionella bacteria at Wensley House care home including the poor standard of plumbing at the home and the sampling methods of a Legionella testing company.
In similar cases we have seen fines as high as £3,000,000 for Legionella failures.
All healthcare sites and regulated activities must have a Legionella Risk Assessment regularly carried out along with periodic reviews.
Temperature monitoring is also important. Temperature monitoring for Legionella control and prevention is not the same as monitoring safe water temperatures.
And all staff involved should be regularly trained to the right standard, basic Legionella Awareness training is not suitable for those carrying out the required measures.