Legionella log book · LegionellaCheck.org.uk · Printed: ______________
Key points
- The log book is the day-to-day record that proves the written scheme is being followed — inspectors look at it before anything else.
- Record temperature readings, flushing, cleaning and disinfection, sample results, and every remedial action.
- Retain records for at least five years under ACOP L8 (paragraph 68); longer in healthcare under HTM 04-01.
- Paper and electronic records are both acceptable — what matters is that the record can be produced promptly on request.
Add an entry
Stored on this device only
| Date | Check | Outlet | Reading | Outcome | Note | Init. |
|---|
| 14 Jul 2026 | Sentinel outlet temperature | Kitchen tap, GF | 52.1°C | Pass | — | AB |
Example This is what an entry looks like. Add your first real check above — entries are stored only in this browser, so export regularly to keep them safe.
Pro Pack owners: paste this export straight into the Import tab of the spreadsheet log book.
Prefer paper? Print a blank log sheet
One sheet per week, per outlet group, or per system — whatever matches your written scheme. The columns are the ones an inspector expects to see.
| Date | Outlet / location | Check | Reading | Outcome | Action or note | Initials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Get the log sheet + free template by email
Printing for the plant room? We will email you the blank log sheet and the ACOP L8 risk assessment template it belongs to — free, no spam.
What to record, and how long to keep it
| Record | What to note | Keep for |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly temperature checks | Date, outlet, hot after one minute, cold after two minutes, calorifier flow/return, initials | At least 5 years |
| Weekly flushing | Outlet, date, duration or temperature reached, initials. Gaps are as telling as entries | At least 5 years |
| Cleaning & disinfection | Shower heads (quarterly to six-monthly), TMVs, tank and calorifier inspections: date, task, operator | At least 5 years |
| Sample results | Laboratory certificates filed chronologically, with outlet and result. Keep originals | At least 5 years |
| Remedial actions | Every adverse finding: what was done, by whom, when, and the follow-up showing it worked | At least 5 years |
| Healthcare (HTM 04-01) | All of the above, under the stricter healthcare regime | Lifetime of the asset |
The mistakes that invalidate a log book
The three failures that turn up most often in HSE investigation reports:
- Gaps. A monthly log with three consecutive months missing is worse than no log at all, because it documents that the scheme is not being followed.
- Physically impossible readings. Temperatures the system on site could not produce are the signature of back-filled records, and experienced inspectors spot them quickly.
- No remedial action after an adverse finding. A hot outlet logged at 35°C three months running with no action recorded is evidence the scheme is not being used, even if every other entry is complete.
Honest, incomplete records are recoverable. Records that have clearly been fabricated are not.
Important
This page is general guidance only. Legionella risk varies with the specific water system, its use, and the people exposed to it. You should consult a competent legionella risk assessor for advice on your premises. LegionellaCheck is an independent information service and is not affiliated with HSE, UKAS, the Legionella Control Association, or any water hygiene company. This site does not provide medical advice. If you suspect Legionnaires' disease, contact NHS 111 or your GP.