How often should a garden centre carry out a Legionella risk assessment?

Legionella risk assessments should be reviewed at least every two years, or sooner if there are significant changes to water systems, building layout, or usage patterns. Any refurbishment, extension, or installation of new water equipment should also trigger a reassessment.

Do all water tanks in a garden centre need to be cleaned regularly?

Yes. All cold-water storage tanks and associated pipework should be inspected annually and cleaned when necessary to prevent sediment build-up, stagnation and bacterial growth. This is a key requirement under ACoP L8 and HSG274 Part 2, particularly important in warm environments such as greenhouses and loft spaces.

What are the consequences of not complying with UK water safety regulations?

Failure to comply can result in legal enforcement, fines, reputational damage and serious health risks to staff and visitors. Non-compliance with ACoP L8 can be used as evidence in court, and organisations may be held liable if poor water management leads to Legionella exposure.

How Garden Centres Can Stay Compliant with UK Water Safety Regulations

As garden centres prepare for another busy season, these much‑loved destinations play an ever‑growing role in their local communities. Modern centres offer far more than plants and pots; many now combine food outlets, retail zones, animal care areas, and family attractions under one roof. With such a diverse mix of facilities, maintaining clean, well‑managed water systems becomes a critical part of keeping visitors and staff safe.

Swiftclean partners with garden centres across the country to deliver expert water hygiene support – helping operators control risks such as Legionella, ensure compliant maintenance routines, and safeguard their buildings and customers.

This article takes a closer look at the core water safety responsibilities every garden centre must address, as well as the legislation that underpins effective water hygiene management.

Legionella Control: Protecting Water Systems Across the Site

Garden centres contain a surprising number of water systems including but not limited to toilets, staff facilities, greenhouses, irrigation networks, hose reels, food prep areas, decorative water features, misting lines, and more. This creates multiple opportunities for Legionella bacteria to develop if not properly controlled.

Core Legislation

Garden centres must comply with the UK’s main legal framework for water hygiene:

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH)
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999