Why Flush Little-Used Taps?

When water sits in pipes for a long time, it warms up and bacteria start to grow. Taps and showers that are not used often are a big risk for Legionella.

Which Taps Need Flushing?

Any tap or shower that is not used regularly, including:

• Hotel guest rooms that are empty
• Empty offices
• Toilets that are rarely used
• Any outlet used less than once a week

How Often

• Once a week (minimum) in most buildings
• Twice a week in hospitals and care homes
• Every day during an outbreak

How to Flush

1. Find all the taps that need flushing (from the risk assessment).
2. Take off any spray attachments (shower heads, aerators) so you do not make a mist.
3. Run both hot and cold water for at least 2-3 minutes.
4. For showers, run with the head removed or on a gentle setting.
5. Write down: date, time, tap name, and who did it.

Important Tips

• Do not spray water into the air - this makes a mist that people could breathe in.
• If a tap cannot be flushed (it is broken or removed), cut off the pipe so there is no dead leg.
• Keep records of all flushing for audits.
• If a tap has not been used for a long time, disinfect it before putting it back in use.