Legionella compliance is a legal obligation — and a hidden risk.
If your GP practice has water outlets (which it does), you’re legally required to manage the risk of Legionnaires’ disease under HSE ACOP L8 and CQC inspection standards. But many practices fall behind — either unaware of their responsibilities, or unsure how to fulfil them.
This quick, 5-point checklist helps you uncover blind spots, protect your patients, and pass your next CQC inspection with confidence.
5-Point Legionella Compliance Checklist for GP Surgeries
Use this checklist to get a snapshot of your current risk level.
1. Do you have a current, documented Legionella risk assessment?
- CQC inspectors will ask to see this.
- The HSE requires all healthcare premises to carry out a risk assessment (ref: HSE Legionella guidance).
- It should be reviewed every 2 years or when changes are made to water systems or usage.
- Cold water must be below 20°C within 2 minutes, hot must be at or above 50°C within 1 minute.
- Readings must be recorded in a logbook or digital monitoring system.
- Failure to monitor temperature is one of the top CQC non-compliance issues.
- Sinks in unused rooms or infrequently accessed areas can allow water to stagnate — a breeding ground for Legionella.
- These outlets must be flushed and the activity recorded, even if unused.
- A document detailing who is responsible, what checks are done, and what to do if a risk is identified.
- CQC expects evidence that the practice can demonstrate effective systems to assess and manage Legionella risk.
- This individual oversees the Legionella scheme and must understand their duties.
- Training should be formal and refreshed periodically — not just "on the job."
If You Answered ‘No’ or ‘Not Sure’ to Any Question...
Your practice may already be non-compliant, and this could put:
- Patients at avoidable risk
- Your CQC rating in jeopardy
But there’s a simple solution.
How Medical Supermarket Can Help
We provide professional, UK-wide support to GP surgeries just like yours.
Legionella Risk Assessment Service
- Site visit and system inspection Temperature mapping Reporting and recommendations HSE and CQC aligned
Full CQC Compliance Assessment Package
- Legionella, Fire Safety, Infection Control
- Tailored for GP practices
