HSE's Approved Code of Practice L8 requires every organisation to appoint a "responsible person" for Legionella control. In a care home this must be a named individual not a job title with documented training and a clear understanding of the water risk assessment.
Why this matters
HSE inspectors routinely ask "who is your responsible person for Legionella?" If the answer is a vague reference to "management" or "our contractor," it is treated as a compliance gap regardless of how good the underlying control regime is.
What to do
- 1Name a specific individual as Legionella responsible person and document this appointment in writing.
- 2Ensure that person has received relevant training HSE accepts online courses provided they cover L8 ACOP content.
- 3Store the appointment letter, training certificate and a copy of the water risk assessment together in a single compliance file.
Primary source
HSE L8 ACOP Legionella: Control in Water Systems
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