Whether it’s an office, warehouse, care home, leisure centre, or educational setting, the legal responsibilities around water hygiene apply to every organisation with a building under its care.

Periods of low occupancy—summer shutdowns, hybrid working, reduced operations—can all increase the risk of water stagnation. This creates a perfect environment for Legionella bacteria and other harmful pathogens, posing both a public health risk and a potential compliance failure.

Water hygiene isn't just a facilities issue—it's a legal one. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, every employer or duty holder must assess and manage the risk of Legionella in any workplace where water is stored or used. Supporting guidance like the HSE’s ACoP L8 and HSG274 sets out clear expectations, including:

•    Regular Legionella risk assessments
•    Routine monitoring of system temperatures
•    Flushing of infrequently used outlets
•    Detailed record-keeping and action plans

For many businesses, especially those without dedicated water hygiene teams, this can feel like a daunting list. That’s where expert guidance becomes invaluable.

At Atom Water Treatment, we specialise in helping organisations manage these responsibilities with confidence. Our role is not just to test and treat water, but to take the complexity out of compliance. We provide clear risk assessments, practical flushing and monitoring schedules, and professional advice tailored to your site and sector—all aligned with nationally recognised standards such as BSRIA, CHAS, and City & Guilds.

Our work is about prevention, not panic. With the right checks in place, most risks can be managed simply and effectively. And with summer approaching—a time when many premises reduce usage—it’s the perfect opportunity to take a fresh look at your water safety measures.

Whether your business is large or small, urban or rural, public or private, water hygiene matters. Managing it well is not only a legal obligation—it’s a step toward greater peace of mind for everyone who uses your building.