SHEA Water vs National Water Hygiene: Which Water Safety Scheme Do You Need?

Introduction

Ensuring safe and compliant water systems is a critical responsibility for organisations across construction, utilities, and facilities management. With multiple schemes and certifications available, it can be difficult to know which approach is right for your team or business.

Two of the most recognised schemes in the UK are SHEA Water and National Water Hygiene. While both aim to improve water safety, they serve different purposes.

This guide will help you understand the differences between the two and make an informed choice: which water safety scheme do you really need?

SHEA Passport & National Water Hygiene Training Courses.

What is SHEA Water?

SHEA Water (Safety, Health, Environmental Assessment) is an audit and compliance-focused scheme designed to help organisations assess and manage water safety risks.

Key points about SHEA Water:

• Focus: Organisational audits, risk assessments, compliance verification.
• Audience: Facilities managers, contractors, consultants, and multi-site organisations.
• Benefits:
  • Independent verification of water safety procedures.
  • Helps demonstrate compliance with UK regulations such as ACOP L8.
  • Supports risk mitigation and enhances organisational reputation.

SHEA Water is most suitable for organisations that need a structured, externally verified framework to manage water safety across multiple sites or projects.

What is National Water Hygiene?

National Water Hygiene is a training and competence-based scheme for individuals responsible for the day-to-day management of water systems.

Key points:

• Focus: Personnel training, competency verification, and regulatory compliance.
• Audience: Operatives, engineers, technicians, and maintenance staff.
• Structure: Includes classroom or online learning, practical assessments, and accreditation.
• Benefits:
  • Ensures staff understand and apply water safety best practices.
  • Provides documented evidence of competence.
  • Supports compliance with ACOP L8 and Legionella management regulations.

National Water Hygiene is ideal for organisations wanting to upskill staff and ensure their workforce is competent in maintaining safe water systems.

Key Differences Between SHEA Water and National Water Hygiene

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help clarify which scheme suits your organisation:

In short: SHEA Water focuses on the organisation; National Water Hygiene focuses on the people.

Which Scheme Should You Choose?

The right scheme depends on your priorities:

• Prioritising organisational compliance and audits: Choose SHEA Water to ensure your processes and sites meet regulatory standards.
• Prioritising staff competence and training: Choose National Water Hygiene to equip your team with the skills they need to safely manage water systems.
• Comprehensive approach: Many organisations benefit from using both — trained personnel combined with a verified audit framework ensures full coverage of water safety responsibilities.

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Selecting the correct water safety scheme has practical implications:

• Compliance: Avoid fines and ensure you meet legal obligations.
• Safety: Reduce risks of Legionella and other waterborne hazards.
• Operational efficiency: Clear responsibilities and trained staff reduce errors and improve performance.
• Reputation: Demonstrating proactive water safety management enhances trust with clients and regulators.

You can find out more HERE.

Conclusion

Choosing between SHEA Water and National Water Hygiene doesn’t have to be confusing.

• SHEA Water is best for organisations seeking audit and compliance assurance.
• National Water Hygiene is ideal for training and upskilling staff.
• Many businesses benefit from combining both approaches to achieve a comprehensive water safety strategy.

Understanding the differences ensures you select the scheme that aligns with your organisational priorities, protects your workforce, and maintains regulatory compliance.

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