Welcome to our new website!

We've refreshed our brand and improved the site to make it easier to find information about our services

Managed Water Services Logo
Episode 3

Dead Legs - Hidden Danger

Stagnant water. Serious risk.

Could a section of pipe that's no longer in use become a hidden Legionella risk?

It might be out of sight, but it shouldn't be out of mind.


Large industrial plant room with pipes and access stairs

In this episode, our team explains:

Find dead legs in system schematics and on-site.

Eliminate dead legs where possible to keep water moving

Flush rarely used outlets to prevent stagnation.

Keep accurate records and review as part of your water safety plan.

Dead Legs

Dead legs are sections of pipework where water no longer flows regularly. When water remains stagnant, it can create conditions that encourage bacteria, including Legionella, to multiply if not properly managed. The good news? With good system design, regular reviews and effective water hygiene management, these risks can often be identified and controlled.

Good legionella control starts with understanding your water system—and taking action before small issues become bigger problems.

Do you routinely review your systems for redundant pipework or dead legs? We'd love to hear your approach in the comments.

Good water hygiene isn’t achieved through one action — it’s the result of consistent management, good procedures and competent people.

Legionella Busters says:

Small actions. Big impact.

Safe water starts with good management.

Read the full episode on LinkedIn

Practical tips and expert advice from this episode.

Free legionella compliance checklist

Review whether your organisation has the key controls in place.

Risk assessments

Documentation

Temperature monitoring

Control measures

Cleaning and disinfection

Training

Water sampling

Corrective actions

By submitting this form, you confirm you have read our Privacy Policy.

By submitting this form, you confirm you have read our Privacy Policy.

By submitting this form, you confirm you have read our Privacy Policy.

What should the Legionella Busters tackle next?

We’d love to hear your suggestions. Let us know in the comments on LinkedIn.

Managed water services logo

Trusted water safety built on over 60 years of expertise.

Registered Office | 1st Floor, 11 Freeport Office Village, Century Drive, Braintree, Essex, CM77 8YG.

Registered in England and Wales | No: 05623756.

© 2026 Managed Water Services Ltd. All rights reserved.
© 2026 Managed Water Services Ltd. All rights reserved.