Legionella Risk Assessment for Nurseries in Doncaster
Legionella risk assessments are essential for nurseries and early-years settings across Doncaster and the surrounding district, where young children, staff and visitors must be protected from avoidable health risks.
As a childcare provider, you have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act to manage the risk of Legionella bacteria within your water system.
ACOP L8 and HSG274 apply to nurseries in the same way they apply to other workplaces, making regular assessments and safe water practices a key part of compliance.
Legionella risk assessments for childminders
Why Nurseries Need a Legionella Risk Assessment
Young children can be more vulnerable to bacteria and infections.
Nurseries often have multiple sinks, changing stations, toilets, kitchens and cleaning facilities, all of which use water daily.
Warm water, limescale, biofilm build-up and unused outlets can create ideal conditions for Legionella bacteria to multiply.
A professional assessment identifies these risks and ensures your setting remains safe, compliant and prepared for inspections.
Who Is Responsible in a Nursery Setting?
The nursery owner or registered provider is the dutyholder.
A manager or senior staff member usually acts as the responsible person and oversees day-to-day water safety.
Your responsibilities as the Responsible Person
Staff also contribute by following flushing routines, descaling taps and reporting concerns.
While Ofsted does not specifically inspect for Legionella, they expect early years providers to manage environmental health risks effectively.
Environmental Health teams within Doncaster Council may also review water safety practices during inspections.
legal duties under ACOP L8 and HSG274
What We Check During a Nursery Legionella Assessment
Full System Walkthrough
- Hot and cold water feeds
- Boilers or hot water cylinders
- Storage tanks
- Mixer taps and thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs)
- Sinks in each childcare room
- Nappy change and baby wash areas
- Children’s toilets and staff facilities
- Kitchen sinks and cleaning stations
Temperature Checks
We ensure hot and cold water performance meets recommended safety standards:
- Hot water reaches safe temperatures quickly
- Cold water stays below 20°C
- No warm, stagnant areas where bacteria may grow
Visual Inspection for Risk Indicators
- Limescale and mineral build-up
- Biofilm deposits
- Underused outlets
- Leaks, drips and slow-running taps
- Dead legs or unused pipework
Usage Pattern Review
- Frequently used sinks and outlets
- Outlets requiring weekly flushing
- Weekend and holiday closures
- Shutdown and reopening routines
What You Receive in Your Nursery Legionella Report
Clear Written Findings
All risks are explained clearly and prioritised, with practical steps you can take to reduce them.
Photographic Evidence
Your report includes photos of:
- Outlets
- Tanks
- Temperature readings
- Any issues noted during the visit
Recommendations
- Flushing routines
- Descaling and cleaning schedules
- Maintenance and repair advice
- Staff guidance
- Written Scheme of Control if required
- Optional water sampling
How Often Should Nurseries Be Assessed?
Most nurseries require a full Legionella risk assessment:
- Every 2 years
- Annually for medium-risk or larger sites
- After refurbishments or system changes
- If recurring water temperature issues appear
Supporting Childcare Staff with Water Safety
Flushing Schedules
Weekly flushing guidance tailored to your nursery layout.
Cleaning and Descaling
Advice on safely descaling taps, TMVs and outlets.
Staff Awareness Guide
A simple reminder sheet covering what staff should look out for and how to report problems quickly and safely.
Pricing for Nursery Legionella Assessments
Pricing varies depending on the size of the building and the number of outlets. Fast quotations are available with clear, transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
Book a Legionella Risk Assessment for Your Nursery
If you run a nursery or early-years setting in Doncaster, Bentley, Armthorpe, Balby, Edenthorpe, Wheatley, Intake, Bessacarr or the wider Doncaster district, we can help you stay compliant with ACOP L8 and HSG274. With recognised training and years of experience, we offer clear reports, fast appointments and practical advice tailored to childcare environments.
To book an assessment or request a quotation, please get in touch today.
