HSE Guidance and Resources on Legionella Compliance

Trusted Guidance for Legionella Control - The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the UK’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. It provides a wide range of resources and guidance to help landlords, employers, and duty holders manage the risks of Legionella bacteria and comply with the law. Understanding and applying this guidance is essential for protecting people from Legionnaires’ disease and staying compliant with regulations. Key HSE Resources on Legionella

ACOP L8 – Legionnaires’ Disease: The Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems

• The Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) L8 is the central document for Legionella compliance.

• It sets out legal duties for employers, landlords, and those in control of premises.

• Covers responsibilities of the duty holder, risk assessments, control measures, record keeping, and monitoring.

• Compliance with ACOP L8 demonstrates you are meeting legal obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act.

​

HSG274 – Technical Guidance

​

• HSG274 is a set of three separate documents that provide practical, technical advice on controlling Legionella in different systems:

  1. Part 1 – Cooling Water Systems

  2. Part 2 – Hot and Cold Water Systems

  3. Part 3 – Other Risk Systems (e.g. spa pools, humidifiers)

• This guidance gives step-by-step recommendations on system design, operation, maintenance, and monitoring.

​

INDG458 – Legionnaires’ Disease: A Brief Guide for Duty holders

​

• A shorter, user-friendly leaflet explaining the basics of Legionella risk management.

• Ideal for landlords, small businesses, and those new to compliance.

• Explains roles, responsibilities, and simple steps for managing risks.

​

Other HSE Resources

​

• Case studies of outbreaks and enforcement actions, showing the importance of compliance.

• FAQs and online guidance tailored to specific sectors.

• Templates and record-keeping advice to support compliance documentation. 

​

Why Use HSE Legionella Resources?

​

• Authoritative – trusted national regulator guidance.

• Up to date – reflects current legal duties and best practices.

• Comprehensive – from introductory leaflets to detailed technical manuals.

• Practical – includes real-world advice, checklists, and examples.

​

How Bespoke Compliance Solutions Uses HSE Guidance

We base all of our Legionella compliance services on HSE ACOP L8 and HSG274 guidance. This means every risk assessment, water test, and remedial action we provide is aligned with national standards. We also help clients interpret and apply HSE guidance to their specific premises, making compliance simpler and easier to manage.

Stay Safe and Compliant with HSE Guidance

The resources provided by the HSE form the foundation of effective Legionella risk management. By understanding and applying these documents, duty holders can ensure compliance, protect occupants, and avoid costly enforcement action.

📞 Contact Bespoke Compliance Solutions today to find out how we can help you apply HSE guidance and achieve full Legionella compliance.

​

Click here to download the various legislative guidance documents - https://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/resources.htm