Water Safety & Legionella Management
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Version: V2
Date: October 2025
Purpose: Ensure safe water supply, prevent Legionella contamination, and maintain water system compliance across all Little Coffee Bean Co locations.
Scope
All fixed locations and mobile units (Tuk Tuks) serving food and beverages.
Key Responsibilities
- Daily water system checks
- Weekly system flushing and maintenance
- Monthly temperature monitoring
- Quarterly professional inspections
- Annual risk assessments
Water Safety Principles
1. Temperature Control
- Hot water: Maintain at 60°C or above
- Cold water: Keep below 20°C
- Check temperatures daily using calibrated thermometers
- Record all readings on the Water Temperature Log
2. System Flushing
- Flush all outlets daily (at least 30 seconds each)
- Includes taps, showers, and coffee machine lines
- Removes stagnant water and reduces bacterial growth
- Document flushing times on daily checklist
3. Legionella Prevention
- Risk assessment required annually (or when system changes)
- Professional water testing quarterly
- Maintain detailed records of all maintenance
- Report any suspected contamination immediately to management
4. Water Quality Checks
- Visual inspection: Water should be clear, no discoloration
- Odour check: No unusual smells
- Taste test (staff only): No unusual taste
- Report any concerns to duty manager
5. System Maintenance
- Clean aerators and screens monthly
- Check for leaks daily
- Inspect pipes for corrosion or damage
- Replace filters according to manufacturer guidance
- Document all maintenance activities
Equipment Required
- Calibrated thermometer
- Water testing kit (quarterly use)
- Cleaning cloths and brushes
- Personal protective equipment (gloves)
- Maintenance log sheets
Daily Procedures
Opening Shift:
- Check water pressure at all outlets
- Flush all taps for 30 seconds
- Check coffee machine water lines
- Record water temperature (hot and cold)
- Visually inspect for leaks
Throughout Shift:
- Monitor water flow and pressure
- Report any discoloration or odours immediately
- Ensure taps are fully closed after use
- Check for any new leaks
Closing Shift:
- Flush all outlets again for 30 seconds
- Turn off water pump (mobile units)
- Check macerator power (fixed locations)
- Document any issues on incident form
- Report problems to manager
Weekly Tasks
- Deep clean all aerators
- Inspect visible pipes for corrosion
- Test water temperature at multiple points
- Flush system thoroughly
- Review and sign maintenance log
Monthly Tasks
- Professional cleaning of water lines
- Filter replacement (if applicable)
- Full system inspection
- Water quality testing
- Update maintenance records
Quarterly Tasks
- Professional water testing by certified lab
- Legionella risk assessment review
- System pressure and flow testing
- Documentation review and audit
Annual Tasks
- Full Legionella risk assessment
- Professional system inspection
- Equipment servicing and certification
- Staff training refresh
- Compliance documentation review
Safety Notes
- Never drink untested water
- Always use protective equipment when handling system components
- Report all leaks immediately
- Do not attempt repairs beyond your training
- Contact professional engineer for major issues
Legionella Guidance Summary
Legionella is a bacterium that grows in warm water environments (20-45°C). It causes Legionnaires’ disease, a serious respiratory infection. Prevention requires:
- Maintaining hot water above 60°C
- Keeping cold water below 20°C
- Regular system flushing
- Professional testing and monitoring
- Proper maintenance records
UK Compliance References
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
- Control of Legionella Bacteria in Water Systems (ACoP L8)
- HSE Legionnaires’ disease guidance