Understanding ACOP L8: What Duty Holders Need to Know

When it comes to legionella control, ACOP L8 (Approved Code of Practice L8) is central. Duty holders under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations must comply with ACOP L8 to prevent Legionnaires’ disease. This blog breaks down key points you need to know and shows how Dantek can help secure compliance.

What Is Acop L8 and Why Does It Matter

ACOP L8 is the Health & Safety Executive’s code of practice covering the control of legionella bacteria in water systems. Often referred to in searches like legionella ACOP L8 or L8 legionella, it outlines legal duties: risk assessment, prevention, monitoring, and record‑keeping. Following both ACOP L8 and HSG 274 guidance is essential to avoid fines or illness outbreaks¹.

According to HSE:

“Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal type of pneumonia, contracted by inhaling airborne water droplets containing viable legionella bacteria.” – HSE ACOP L8.

Key Duties Under L8

1. Risk assessment

   Identify potential sources – cooling towers, water tanks, showers – and evaluate hazards. Dantek’s Legionella Risk Assessment Services offer expert support to ensure your assessment meets ACOP L8 and HSG 274.
   

2. Preventative maintenance

   Prevent stagnation, maintain correct temperatures, and clean water systems. Services like water sampling, tank cleaning, and temperature monitoring prevent bacteria growth.
   

3. Monitoring and checks

   Regular checks for temperature control and sampling to detect Legionella bacteria. Dantek’s monitoring service includes cloud-based logbooks – saving you time and effort while ensuring traceability.
   

4. Record keeping

   Keep thorough records of assessments, sampling, maintenance, and training – essential during inspections.
   

5. Training and competence

   Responsible staff must understand ACOP L8 requirements and be properly trained. Dantek offers Legio­nella Awareness and Responsible Person training to help meet this need.

    

How Dantek Supports Compliance

Comprehensive risk assessments

Dantek conducts in-depth legionella risk assessments and follow-up updates, ensuring each site is fully compliant with the latest guidance¹.

Proactive water hygiene services

From water tank cleaning to showerhead disinfection, these actions are vital for controlling legionella. Dantek also delivers BS 8558 chlorination and chemical flushing on chilled and heating systems.

Advanced monitoring with an electronic logbook

Dantek’s cloud-based platform simplifies compliance. Real‑time alerts mean you catch deviations early. Facilities management teams working across multiple sites particularly benefit.

Legionella training and expert advice

With years of experience and close ties to the Legionella Control Association, Dantek’s training empowers teams to manage L8 duties effectively. The service also includes support for Plant & Equipment like thermostatic mixer valves and chlorine dioxide units.

Why Proactive Compliance Pays

Failing to comply can result in enforcement actions or worse – a serious outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease. Meeting ACOP L8 demonstrates duty holders are proactive and responsible, safeguarding staff, visitors, and reputation.

Duty holders should start with a robust legionella risk assessment. Get in touch with Dantek today to ensure compliance with ACOP L8, protect users of your water system, and gain peace of mind.