Managing water systems safely is critical to preventing Legionella risks in schools. Understanding the terminology and responsibilities is key to compliance and keeping everyone safe.
Dead Legs
- A dead leg is a section of pipework with no flow but still connected to the system. Dead legs create ideal conditions for biofilm and Legionella growth. Managing them effectively is essential for compliance with HSE ACoP L8 and HSG274 guidance.
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- Dead legs need to be flushed weekly.
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Dead Ends
- A dead end should be completely disconnected and poses no risk once removed.
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- Options include removal, convert the tee connection into an elbow, or fit a drain valve, or tap to allow flushing.
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- Regular checks and updates to your Legionella Risk Assessment (LRA) help identify and manage these issues.
System Changes
Any alterations to water systems, such as increasing water heaters, adding basins, taps or changing layouts, can affect risk levels.
Always ask for a LRA review after these types of changes to ensure compliance, by emailing Property@somerset.gov.uk if you use Education Property or your service provider.
Common Questions from Legionella Annual Returns submitted via Civica
- Change of Water Heater
- A like-for-like replacement does not increase risk.
- Update your LRA details to reflect the change,
- If you increase the number of Points of Use water heaters (POUs) or basins, a new LRA is required.
- Change of Staff
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- Risk remains the same, but records must be updated by the Premises Manager and this information added to your LRA.
- Ensure new staff complete Legionella training, such as the Blackboard Legionella Awareness course and log this in the Responsibilities section of your LRA.
Action for Premises Managers:
- Review your LRA regularly.
- Keep records accurate and up to date.
- Ensure Legionella Awareness staff training is current.
Learn more:
Schools Legionella Guidance
What should go into your Legionella folder?
SC Legionella Guidance
