Legionella risk assessments in education: keeping students and staff safe

In schools, colleges, and universities, ensuring a safe and healthy environment is a top priority. With large, varied buildings, fluctuating occupancy levels, and seasonal closures, educational settings can be particularly vulnerable to the growth of Legionella bacteria in their water systems.

A Legionella outbreak doesn’t just pose a health risk – it can lead to enforced closures, negative publicity and legal consequences. That’s why regular Legionella risk assessments are a vital part of responsible facilities management in the education sector.

Understanding the risks in education settings

Legionella bacteria thrive in stagnant or warm water, making them a potential hazard in any building with complex or underused water systems. In educational environments, certain conditions can increase this risk:

• Infrequently used buildings, classrooms or changing rooms
• Long pipe runs and water outlets in remote areas
• Seasonal shutdowns (such as summer holidays or half-term breaks)
• On-site accommodation or sports facilities with showers and changing areas
• Poor temperature control or insufficient maintenance routines

If these risks aren’t identified and managed, Legionella can multiply and be released through aerosols, such as those from showers or taps – posing a danger to both staff and students.

What a Legionella risk assessment involves

A Legionella risk assessment is a structured review of your water systems and maintenance processes. It helps identify where Legionella could grow and what steps need to be taken to control the risk. This includes:

• A physical inspection of all water outlets and plant
• Review of hot and cold water temperatures
• Identification of low-use areas or underperforming assets
• Evaluation of current maintenance and flushing regimes
• Recommendations for remedial actions and control measures

Assessments should be conducted by a competent person and reviewed regularly – especially after building changes, refurbishment, or prolonged closure.

How HBE UK supports schools and universities

At HBE UK, we work with education providers across the UK to deliver practical, compliant Legionella risk assessments and water hygiene services. Our team understands the operational constraints of education settings and will carry out assessments safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption to learning.

We offer:

• Legionella risk assessments and water sampling
• Support with control schemes and maintenance planning
• Flushing and disinfection services during closures
• Staff awareness training
• Follow-up testing and remedial works

All our services follow current guidance and best practice, giving you peace of mind and a clear path to compliance.

Be proactive – protect your people

If your last Legionella risk assessment is out of date, or you’re unsure whether your current controls are sufficient, now is the time to act. Safeguarding students and staff includes making sure your water systems are safe and well managed.

Get in touch with HBE UK to book a Legionella risk assessment or to discuss how we can support your facilities team with ongoing water safety management.