Legionella testing services

The Legionella risk assessment aims to evaluate the potential for Legionella bacteria growth and transmission in water systems within the premises. This includes:

• Identifying and documenting all water systems (e.g., hot and cold water systems, cooling towers, showers, taps, tanks, etc.)

• Assessing the condition, layout, and temperature control of systems

• Reviewing current management practices and compliance with ACoP L8 and HSG274 guidelines

• Highlighting areas of non-compliance or elevated risk

• Recommending corrective actions or ongoing control measures.

A trained Legionella risk assessor from CGM Cumbria will:

• Review relevant site documentation, including water hygiene logs, previous assessments, schematics, and maintenance records

• Interview the duty holder or responsible person to understand existing control regimes and current water hygiene procedures and responsible persons under HSE guidance. 

• Clarify site access and safety procedures prior to inspection

• Plan the inspection to minimize disruption to occupants or business operations

During the onsite phase, the assessor will carry out a detailed inspection and sampling including:

Physically inspecting all accessible water systems for cleanliness, insulation, stagnation points, and accessibility Measuring water temperatures at sentinel outlets (e.g., first and last taps on hot/cold systems)

Checking for dead legs, scale, corrosion, or biofilm that could encourage bacterial growth and taking water samples (if required) for laboratory analysis to detect Legionella presence then record all findings.