UK\'s HSE updates practical advice on controlling legionella bacteria in water systems

Published: 26-Nov-2013

It includes information on identifying and assessing sources of risk


The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has revised the Legionnaires’ disease Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) (L8), removing the out-of-date technical guidance (HSG274), which has been published separately online.

HSG274 comprises three sections – Part 1: Evaporative Cooling Systems, Part 2: Hot and cold water systems and Part 3: Other Risk Systems.

Lorraine Medcalf, HSE’s Legionella policy lead, said the revised ACOP provides 'greater clarity for dutyholders on what constitutes legal requirements and what is guidance' and where possible the terminology has been simplified.

The ACOP, which is aimed at dutyholders, including employers; those in control of premises; and people with health and safety responsibilities for others, was one of several identified for review and revision, consolidation, or withdrawal, in line with a recommendation by Professor Ragnar Löfstedt in his report, Reclaiming health and safety for all.

The revised publication was subject to consultation and received HSE Board and ministerial approval. It includes information on identifying and assessing sources of risk; preparing a scheme to prevent or control risk; implementing, managing and monitoring precautions; keeping records of precautions; and appointing a competent person with sufficient authority and knowledge of an installation to help take measures needed to comply with the law.

Legal responsibilities to protect workers’ health and safety are not altered by any changes to ACOPs.

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