pool operators’ handbook - golden plains shire...pool operators’ handbook disclaimer the pool...

Pool operators’ handbook

Pool operators’ handbook

DisclaimerThe Pool operators’ handbook is a guide to operating public swimming pools.This information is advisory and is not intended to replace or override legislation.

Pool operators must adhere to and consult all relevant acts, regulations, codes ofpractice, standards and guidelines. Every pool operator is responsible for keepingabreast of and following relevant legislation and regulations. These are described inthe Introduction and listed in the Bibliography, but be aware that some may be underreview at the time of printing.

Published by Environmental Health UnitRural and Regional Health and Aged Care Services DivisionVictorian Government Department of Human ServicesMelbourne Victoria Australia

February 2008

© Copyright State of Victoria, Department of Human Services, 2008

This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance withthe provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.

ISBN 0 7311 62 88 9

Also published on www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/swimming.htm

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.

Printed on sustainable paper by Sovereign Press, 6 Traminer Crt, Wendouree 3355.

ii Pool operators’ handbook

http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/swimming.htm

Pool operators’ handbook iii

The handbook was first published in 2000, following the generous contributions ofVictorian aquatic industry experts through a committee chaired by the VictorianAquatic Industry Council. The contributors were:

Geoff Bell Leisure Management and MarketingJames Nightingale

Joe Calello Roejen Services Pty LtdGreg Leayr

Nicky Crawshaw Australian Physiotherapy Association

Kerry Crossley Aqua Science Consultants Pty LtdDarryn McKenzie

Laurence Duggan MRW Australia Pty Ltd

Norman Farmer Royal Life Saving Society Australia––Victorian Branch (RLSSAV)Warwick Waters

Derek Lightbody Department of Human Services, Environmental Health Unit

Colin Long Local Government Professional Association

Jenni Maclean Victorian Aquatic Industry Council (VICSWIM)

The first edition drew extensively on the Pool WaterTreatment Advisory Group’s(PWTAG) 1995 publication, Pool Water Guide. Where appropriate, text was extractedfrom this publication and the Development Committee acknowledges permissiongranted by the PWTAG for this use.

This edition was the result of contributions from the following people asrepresentatives of the Victorian aquatic industry:

Colin Long Roejen Services Pty LtdJohn Coppock

Darryn McKenzie Smart Connection

Kerry Crossley Aqua Science Consultants Pty Ltd

Alistair Thom Royal Life Saving Society Australia––Victorian Branch (RLSSAV)

Andrew Whittaker Aquatics and Recreation Victoria

Natalie Blyth Department of Human Services, Environmental Health UnitChristy BoucherMarion CareyDavid Hogan

Acknowledgements

What is a healthy swimming pool? Obviously, one free from disease causing organismsand bacteria, with clear sparkling water and well maintained surrounds. Well managedswimming pools are healthy environments, where the risk of infection or illness is low.

Swimming pools are deeply connected with Australian culture––our dreams of havinga backyard pool, a poolside holiday, achieving personal fitness or being an Olympicchampion. For many communities, the public pool is the place to meet friends andkeep cool on hot summer days.

Holidaymakers often choose a particular caravan park or motel because it has aswimming pool or spa and they expect these facilities to be in pristine condition.The operations of tourism accommodation businesses are often judged by the waytheir pools are managed. Pool operation and pool management entrusts staff withimportant responsibilities:

• maintaining healthy water and an inviting environment

• maintaining the pool’s structure

• ensuring plant and equipment works reliably and efficiently.

This is a revised edition of the original Pool operators’ handbook, first published in2000 as a joint project of the Department of Human Services and the VictorianAquatic Industry Council. A diverse committee of professionals with pool operations,pool management, public health, pool user and pool service backgrounds collaboratedon the original Handbook. I believe it has served the industry very well, but it is time toupdate the publication and reflect changes to acts, regulations and codes of practice.You will also find new information on pool hygiene.

I hope that this revised edition provides clear guidance on water treatment andassociated pool management issues for operators, owners, proprietors, bodycorporate managers, local government authorities and industry service providers.

Finally, I thank the contributing authors and their respective organisations for creatingthis valuable resource.

Dr John CarnieChief Health OfficerDepartment of Human Services

Preface

iv Pool operators’ handbook

Pool operators’ handbook v

Disclaimer ii

Acknowledgements iii

Preface iv

Introduction 1

Aims and objectives 2Overview 2Who should use this Handbook? 2What types of pools are covered in this Handbook? 2

Staff and responsibilities 3Overview 3Management structure 3Operating the pool environment 4The pool operator 4

Acts, regulations, codes of practice and guidelines 5Overview 5Relevant acts, regulations and codes of practice 5Safe work practices 5Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 2001 6Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 6Dangerous Goods Act 1985 7Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2000 7SafetyMAP (previously “chemical notifiers”) 8Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) 9Codes of practice 9Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation (GSPO) 9Australian Standards 10Environmental Protection Authority 10waterMAPS 10

Infrastructure 11

Swimming pool design 12Overview 12Design brief 12Specialist help 13Choosing water treatment specialists 15

Types of pools 16Overview 16

Contents

Health and hygiene 19

Sources of contamination 19Overview 19

Infections and conditions associated with pool use 21Bacteria 21Viruses 21Protozoal parasites 22Fungi 22Chemical irritants 22Outbreaks and notifications 22

Risk management 23Swimmer hygiene 23Swimmers with diarrhoea 23Non-toilet trained infants 23Education and signage 23Children’s pool design and filtration 23Pool staff 24

Operational control and management 25Bather load 25Filter maintenance 25Hot water systems 25Microbiological testing 25Faecal accident policies 25Blood and vomit 26Disinfecting contaminated surfaces 26

Pool cleaning 27Around pool and changing rooms 27Bottom of pool 27Emptying the pool 27Cleaning spa pools and water features 27

vi Pool operators’ handbook

Pool operators’ handbook vii

Water treatment 29

Choosing a disinfectant 30 Overview 30Suitable disinfectants 30Chloramine removal 33Cyanuric acid 35Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP) 35Controlling algae 35Unsuitable disinfectants 36

Ozone and ultraviolet radiation 39Overview 39Ozone 39Ultraviolet radiation (UV) 41

Water balance 42Overview 42pH 42Total alkalinity 42Calcium hardness 42Temperature 42Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 42Adjusting water balance parameters 42Calculating water balance 43

Dosage and control systems 45Overview 45Design of dosage systems 45Points of dosing 45Control systems 45Safety issues 46Sensors 46

Monitoring systems 49

Chemical testing 50Test methods 50Dilution of samples 51Chemical limits 52Keeping records 52

Sample log sheets 53Chemical limits worksheet 53Sample pool operator log sheet 54

Microbiological monitoring 55Overview 55Microbiological testing 56Assessing microbiological quality 56Sampling procedure 57Documentation 57

Physical management of water 59

Water circulation 60Overview 60Inlets and outlets 61Circulation design 61

Filtration 63Overview 63Filtration principles 63Types of filters 63Specifications 64The sand bed 64Limits of filtration 64Coagulation and flocculation 65Backwashing 65Maintenance 66

Heating and air circulation 67Overview 67Pool water heating 67Temperature 68Pool hall ventilation and air circulation 68Separate areas 68Sources of ventilation 68Energy management 69

Maintenance 71

Overview 72Winterisation 72Unattended pools 73

Useful resources 75

Problem sorter 76

Glossary 81

Bibliography 83

Index 84

viii Pool operators’ handbook

Pool operators’ handbook ix

Figures

Figure 1 Location of safety showers and eye wash facilities 6

Figure 2 Hazchem signage for packaged dangerous goods 7

Figure 3 Hazchem signage for bulk dangerous goods 8

Figure 4 Backwash tank 10

Figure 5 Instantaneous hot water systems 25

Figure 6 Chlorine gas, weight scales and regulator 31

Figure 7 Bulk sodium hypochlorite container in bund 31

Figure 8 Pool water treatment with chlorine disinfectant 32

Figure 9 Pool water treatment with ozone and hypochlorite 39

Figure 10 ORP probes 40

Figure 11 Ozone leak detector 40

Figure 12 Ozone off-gas destructor 40

Figure 13 Carbon dioxide tank 43

Figure 14 Hazards of poor labelling 43

Figure 15 Metering pump 45

Figure 16 Carbon dioxide controller 45

Figure 17 Erosion canister (erosion feeder) 45

Figure 18 Pool control panel and chemical measuring station 46

Figure 19 Chemical sensors installed in a side-stream loop 47

Figure 20 Photometer 50

Figure 21 Comparator 50

Figure 22 Dry reagents 50

Figure 23 Test strips 50

Figure 24 Microbiological sampling technique 57

Figure 25 Wet deck on a modern indoor pool 60

Figure 26 Overflow channel on an older outdoor pool 60

Figure 27 Skimmer box and lint trap 61

Figure 28 Three circulation options for a 25m pool 61

Figure 29 Medium rate pressure filter for larger pool 63

Figure 30 Plant room with multiple filters 63

Figure 31 High rate sand filter for spa or small pool 63

Figure 32 Old style gravity sand filter beds and backwash channel 63

Figure 33 Filter off-gas bleed and collectors 64

Figure 34 Medium rate pressure sand filters pressure differential gauges 64

Figure 35 Dosing tanks with mixers for adding coagulant 65

Figure 36 Pressure differential gauges 65

Figure 37 Multi-port valve on a large, open gravity filter 66

Figure 38 Closed loop heat exchanger 67

Figure 39 Gas fired direct pool water heater 67

Figure 40 Heavy duty gas or electric boilers 67

Figure 41 Pool covers 69

Tables

Table 1 Interpreting Hazchem codes 8

Table 2 Classes of common dangerous goods kept at pools 8

Table 3 Main components of the MSDS 9

Table 4 Australian Standards 10

Table 5 Deactivation times for selected pathogens in pools 21

Table 6 Characteristics of pool water disinfectants 37

Table 7 SI index of factors 44

Table 8 Legislative limits for swimming and spa pools 52

x Pool operators’ handbook

Pool operators’ handbook 1

Introduction

Overview

The Handbook can be downloadedfrom http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/swimming.htm.It is recommended that you visit thissite regularly for current information.

A clear, safe, sparkling swimming pool isthe right of every user. It should also bethe objective of every manager. Inpractice, this is sometimes difficult toachieve. Changes to the water’sphysical, chemical and microbiologicalconditions occur constantly in a busypool––some in seconds; others in hoursor days. Only a trained pool operator canidentify and manage these changes.

This Handbook recognises the uniqueneeds of Victorian pool operators andhas considered the types of equipmentand treatment used, the local regulatoryenvironment and the experience andexpertise of Aquatics and RecreationVictoria. It was prepared in associationwith a committee of industryprofessionals with backgrounds in poolmanagement, water treatment, poolmaintenance and service, pool usergroups and public health.

This Handbook offers practical advice onpool operation and water treatmentissues, encouraging pool operators to:

• follow safe working procedures

• maintain plant and equipment toachieve the desired service life

• achieve regulatory compliance

• provide the best swimming or bathingexperience possible for the pool user.

Who should use thisHandbook? This Handbook is intended to provideadvice and guidance on pool operationand water treatment for a range ofmanagers and staff. According to theHealth (Infectious Diseases) Regulations2001, the proprietor is “the person whoowns, manages or controls the spa poolor swimming pool.”These include:

• pool operators

• pool owners

• pool managers

• committees of management

• pool designers and consultants(including architects, builders andengineers)

• pool service companies and poolshops

• contract managers

• environmental health officers

• industry bodies.

What types of pools arecovered in this Handbook?

This Handbook is intended for use atall pools where the public areadmitted––as either a primary oradditional service.

Much of this Handbook is based on theworkings of a medium-sized communitypool. However, the principles andpractices of monitoring and controlapply equally to all pools. The onlydifference may be that the size of theplant is scaled according to the size ofthe pool and treatment needs.

Pool locations

The following examples are situationswhere the information in this Handbookshould be applied:

• apartments

• backpackers’ hostels

• body corporates

• caravan and camping parks

• community and municipal pools

• exhibition pools

• gymnasiums, health and fitnessstudios

• hospitals and hydrotherapy centres

• prisons

• private clubs

• resorts, hotels and motels

• retirement villages

• schools and universities

• sports and leisure centres

• swim schools

• workplaces.

This is not an exhaustive list––if yourspecific situation does not appear above,contact the Department of HumanServices for clarification on whether it isdeemed a ‘public swimming pool’.

This Handbook is not aimed atdomestic backyard pools of singledwelling properties used by theoccupying family. Australian/NewZealand Standard 3633 should bereferred to for the maintenance of aprivate swimming pool.

Aims and objectives

2 Pool operators’ handbook

http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/swimming.htm


Overview There are many factors critical to poolwater quality and these are described inmore detail later. They fall into threegroups: human contamination,environment and design, constructionand operation.

Human contamination Skin, throat and faecal bacteria, bodyoils, cosmetics, ammonia andnitrogenous matter from sweat, urine,dirt, food, saliva and open infections.

EnvironmentPhysical and chemical composition ofpool water, algae and fungi, gasesformed from chemical reactions, air andwater quality and pollution, humidity,sunlight, evaporation.

Design, construction and operation Pool bathing load, turnover, dilution,hydraulics, construction materials,chemical conditioning, disinfectants,dosing control, flocculants, filtration,testing and interpretation.

Given these factors––any of which canaffect bathing conditions and become ahazard to health––a pool or spa requiresproactive water quality management.

Management structure

Staff needs vary with pool size

The actual management structure willvary according to the type of facility.For example, a small hydrotherapy,community or hotel pool will require asmall number of multi-skilled staff.A large community swimming poolcomplex will require a team ofspecialised staff.

All staff require training

Whatever its size, maintaining the poolrequires that all staff be trained tounderstand and interpret pooloperations and water conditions.Personnel should be trained in plantoperation and water treatment measuresrequired to maintain water quality. Wherepossible, a manager or other personresponsible for water quality should beprofessionally qualified.

As the size and complexity of the poolincreases, specialist staff are required.In a large multi-facility site, the servicesof qualified staff for day-to-day plantoperations are indispensable. Theiractions should be guided bydocumented plant operation manualsand maintenance inspection schedules.

Peripheral staff are alsoimportant

Understanding the pool water treatmentprocess should not stop with theappointment of management staff. Theactions of lifeguards and supervisorsalso have an effect on pool water quality.Relevant staff should have anappropriate understanding of basic waterchemistry and the testing, watertreatment, plant operation and thegeneral procedures required to maintaingood quality water.

As well as supervision, lifeguards may berequired to conduct accurate water tests,provide a hygienic pool area, ensurepre-swim hygiene and respond to asoiling incident. The supervisor shouldbe sufficiently familiar with water qualityto be able to correct a condition thatcould lead to water quality deterioration.If the pool water begins to lose clarity orfall below the relevant standards set outin the Health (Infectious Diseases)Regulations 2001, the on-site supervisormust be able to decide if bathingshould cease.

Management responsibility

Managers responsible for large,multi-purpose facilities may delegateday-to-day pool operation to teammembers with appropriate skills.Nevertheless, the manager still carriesthe ultimate responsibility. Whether ornot the managers have hands-on skills,they must have a sound understandingof pool operations and be able to spotproblems and institute remedies. Forinstance, a swimming pool with poorlymaintained water is a perfect breedingground for disease. Even a wellmaintained pool can provide a vehicle oftransmission to patrons. Also, carelessmanagement of flocculants, filtration,disinfection and chemical balances cancause turbidity (cloudiness) thatobscures swimmers’ and lifeguards’vision of the pool floor, even in shallowwater. See the chapter ‘Healthand hygiene’.

Staff and responsibilities

Operating the poolenvironment

Cost pressures

With increasing demands on public andprivate expenditure, competitivetendering of public services and greaterawareness of water and energyconservation issues, there is pressure tofind more cost-effective ways to operateswimming pools. Water, energy, watertreatment and waste water disposalcosts are very real concerns formanagers; but where the consequencesof alterations and adaptations to limitthese costs are not fully understood,disaster can follow.

Poor training and techniquescan increase costs

In terms of capital expenditure, energy,maintenance and day-to-day operation,a swimming pool is an expensive item.Managers and staff should be trained toobtain maximum life from their facilitiesand to operate them cost-effectively.

Lack of training and knowledge aboutenergy conservation and watertreatment systems can actually increasethe cost of operations dramatically.Poor use of chemicals and methods maymean that major items of plant,equipment and buildings require earlyreplacement. This can even lead to theclosure of the facility.

Poor maintenance and operation canoften be attributed to a lack ofprofessional expertise or knowledge(or possibly resources). Either way, itrepresents a failure of management, andmay require the owners of pools, localauthorities, schools or private operatorsto spend large amounts of money on

pool refurbishment, sometimes withinten years of operation. This may includenew filters, plumbing, pumps, tiling,grouting, calorifiers, steelwork in the poolhall, heating and ventilation plant,lighting and electrical work.

The pool operator

Responsibilities

A pool operator should be appointed ateach facility. This person should takeresponsibility for the overall operationpool plant and equipment and ensurethat appropriate operational andmaintenance activities are carried out.The pool operator must have acomprehensive knowledge of relevantstatutes, regulations, codes andother standards.

In pools that are open for long hourseach week, responsibility for the dailyoperation of the plant may be shared.The pool operator should ensure thatthose left in charge have a workingknowledge of the Regulations and canensure that the treatment plantcontinues to provide pool water thatmeets these requirements. They shouldalso be able to identify problems andknow how to obtain corrective advice.Additional training may be required, toensure adequate understanding of thestatutory requirements.

Pool managers and owners shouldensure that appropriate staffinvolved in water quality and plantoperation all have relevant trainingand are competent to carry out therequired responsibilities.



OverviewInformation in this Handbook is advisory,not mandatory. In the future, however,pool operators may be required by law toadhere to ‘all relevant guidelines andstandards’. In this case, the Handbookwould qualify as a ‘relevant guideline’.Failure to meet reasonable standards inproviding a safe public environmentalready carries heavy penalties.Therefore, it is sound practice to closelyfollow the guidelines in this Handbook.

Much of this guidance is intended toassist compliance with the requirementsof the Health (Infectious Diseases)Regulations 2001, the OccupationalHealth and Safety Act 2004 (includingthe Occupational Health and Safety(Plant) Regulations 1995), and theDangerous Goods Act 1985. In the eventof an accident, the extent to which pooloperators have adhered to acceptedguidelines would determine their level ofvulnerability to legal action fornegligence/public liability.

All legislation relating to using andoperating a public swimming or spa poolmust be followed. These guidelines donot replace the requirements of thelegislation.

Pool operators are advised toconsult all appropriate acts,regulations, codes of practice,standards and guidelines, as well asindustry publications. Many of theseare listed in the Bibliography, butoperators should be aware thatsome may be under review at thetime of printing. It is the pooloperator’s responsibility to keepabreast of changes to legislationand regulations.

Relevant acts, regulationsand codes of practice Please note that some of these statutesand regulations are under review. Theymay in fact have their names or titleschanged. It is the responsibility of thepool manager/owner to keep up todate with:

• Health (Infectious Diseases)Regulations 2001

• Occupational Health and SafetyAct 2004

• Occupational Health and SafetyRegulations 2007

• Dangerous Goods Act 1985

• Dangerous Goods (Storage andHandling) Regulations 2000

• Chemical Notifiers Self AssessmentTool

• Australian Standards

• codes of practice

• compliance codes.

These are discussed in detail later inthis chapter.

Safe work practicesApart from adhering to relevant acts andregulations, employers also need toestablish their own safety policies andwritten safe work practices. Developthese in consultation with employeesand include an assessment of alloperational hazards and the precautionstaken to control these risks.

Hazards common to public pooloperations include:

• chemicals used in disinfection causingirritated skin or eyes; greaterflammability of materials becausedisinfectants are strong oxidisingagents; leaks of toxic gases;explosions1

• murky water harbouring disease-causing microbiological contaminantsand obscuring pool users in difficulty

• miscellaneous risks to employees,including work in confined spaces anduse of electrical equipment.

Training employees

Adequate training on safety measuresand hazards should be provided to allemployees, with records kept of contentand attendance at courses orin-services:

• Training should be specific to theparticular pool and plant, itsassociated hazards and substancesused. Manufacturers’ instructionsshould be readily available (forexample, affixed to the plant itself).

• Provide for enough employees toensure that plant need never beoperated by untrained staff.

• Train employees in the use, care andmaintenance of personal protectiveequipment (PPE).

• Require that employees demonstratethat they can operate and maintainthe plant safely.

Acts, regulations, codes of practice and guidelines

1 The most serious risk is uncontrolled escapeof chlorine gas, following incorrect fitting ofchlorine gas lines or the inadvertent mixing ofchlorine-based disinfectant with acid.

Health (Infectious Diseases)Regulations 2001Sets out parameters within which publicpools and spas must be maintained, toensure safe water conditions for poolusers. This includes chemical andmicrobiological levels, as well as testingand recording requirements. TheRegulations also prescribe minimumlevels of water clarity.

Pool managers should ensure thatall staff involved in water quality andplant operation are familiar with andhave access to current healthregulations. A copy should be kepton-site.

Figure 1 Location of safety showersand eye wash facilities

Safety Showers and eyewash facilities should belocated immediately adjacent to the hazardousarea, but not within the hazard.

Occupational Health andSafety Act 2004The Act’s objectives are to:

• Secure the health, safety and welfareof employees and other personsat work.

• Eliminate at the source any risks to thehealth, safety or welfare of employeesand other persons at work.

• Ensure that public health and safety isnot placed at risk by the conduct ofemployers and self-employed persons.

• Involve employees, employers andtheir representative organisations informing and implementing health,safety and welfare standards.

The pool manager should have theauthority to ensure that the premises aresafe and that all plant and substancesare operated, stored and used withoutrisks to staff or pool users. Identifyinghazards and taking precautions tocontrol risks will help managers toreduce their liability. Training,certification and record keeping arefundamental to providing a safe, healthyenvironment––they are the manager’skey to safeguarding legal requirementsand producing a successful operation.

It is also important for employers to beaware of the Occupational Health andSafety (Plant) Regulations 1995.

There are specific requirements outlinedin the Occupational Health and SafetyAct 2004 for particular roles in aquaticfacilities and plants.

Obligations and duties ofemployers

The Occupational Health and Safety Act2004 sets out a number of specificduties for employers. These includeproviding:

• safe plant and systems of work (forexample, regulating the pace andfrequency of work)

• safe systems of work in connectionwith the plant and substances (forexample, toxic chemicals)

• a safe working environment (forexample, by controlling noise levels)

• adequate staff welfare facilities (forexample, washrooms, lockers, diningareas)

• adequate information on hazards, aswell as instruction, training andsupervision to employees, to enablethem to work safely.

Proprietors, including poolmanagers, should ensure that allstaff, including those involved inwater quality and plant operation,have an appropriate knowledge ofthe requirements of theOccupational Health and SafetyAct 2004.

Obligations and dutiesof employees

Employees are required to:

• take reasonable care of their personalhealth and safety

• take reasonable care of the health andsafety of anyone else who may beaffected by their acts or omissions inthe workplace

• cooperate with any action taken bythe employer to comply with anyrequirements imposed by or underthe Act.



Dangerous Goods Act 1985

The Dangerous Goods Act 1985, andin particular the Dangerous Goods(Storage and Handling) Regulations2000, apply to employers whosebusiness involves substanceshazardous to health.

Dangerous goods and hazardoussubstances are classified according todifferent criteria. Dangerous goods areclassified on the basis of immediatephysical or chemical effects––such asfire, explosion, corrosion andpoisoning––on property, the environmentor people. Many chemicals are bothhazardous substances and dangerousgoods, and in these cases, both sets oflaws apply. Pool operators shouldtherefore specifically consider bacteriaand viruses, other pollutants anddisinfection by-products, when planningto store and use dangerous goods. Thisincludes many disinfectants and otherchemicals used in and around a pool.

Dangerous goods includemicroorganisms, by-products and anysubstances creating the sort of hazardthat might come from a classifiedchemical. Pool operators shouldspecifically consider bacteria andviruses, other pollutants and disinfectionby-products when deciding how best tostore and use dangerous goods. Thisincludes many disinfectants and otherchemicals used in and around a pool.

Employers and employees should haveeasy access to copies of the relevantlegislation on-site, as well as MaterialSafety Data Sheets (MSDS). Conduct aformal assessment of all dangerousgoods held, then assess health risks toemployees and anybody using thepremises. This must be regularlyreviewed and updated whenevercircumstances change––for example, achange in the type of disinfectant used,or its application method.

Pool and contract managers shouldensure that all staff, including thoseinvolved in water quality and plantoperation, have an appropriateknowledge of the requirements ofthe Dangerous Goods Act 1985 andthe Dangerous Goods (Storage andHandling) Regulations 2000.

Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling)Regulations 2000 The Dangerous Goods (Storage andHandling) Regulations and the Hazchemlegislation made under the OccupationalHealth and Safety Act 2004 have certainsignage requirements. These types ofacts and regulations are under constantreview and may have changed since thisHandbook was printed.

The purpose of the placarding part of theRegulations (Hazchem) is to ensure thatemergency services are prepared andequipped to combat fires or spillagesinvolving dangerous goods. TheRegulations require that notices aredisplayed at all workplaces where thequantities of various classes ofdangerous goods kept exceed aprescribed aggregate amount.

Managers should ensure that anassessment of their signage has beenconducted, so that they are confident itmeets current requirements. This willdepend on the quantity and type ofchemicals stored on the site.

Notices required

Entrance Notice

If the prescribed aggregate quantityof ANY one class of dangerousgoods at a workplace is exceeded,then the workplace must beprovided with an outer warningnotice (HAZCHEM) at every roadand rail entrance to the workplace.

There are a number of exceptions:

1. In the case of a farm, or primary orsecondary school, the notice isrequired only at the main roadentrance.

2. If the only dangerous goods whichexceed the prescribed aggregatequantity is Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPGas), in cylinders and kept outside abuilding and connected to consumingappliances within the building.

3. If the only dangerous goods whichexceed the prescribed aggregatequantities are substances stored in orwithin the vicinity of a dwelling at theworkplace and are for use in or onthe dwelling.

PlacardingIf a workplace requires notices under theabove definition, then a CompositeWarning Notice is required for all storageof dangerous goods:

1. In the case of packaged dangerousgoods, a Hazchem notice (Figure 2)must be displayed:

a) at the entrance to any building orroom in which dangerous goodsare kept

b) adjacent to any storage ofdangerous goods kept in the open.

Figure 2 Hazchem signage forpackaged dangerous goods

Class labels should be displayed at the entranceof any building or room in which dangerousgoods are kept in the open.

2. In the case of bulk dangerous goods(storage tank or bulk container), anotice (Figure 3) must be displayedon or adjacent to the tank or bulkcontainer.

Figure 3 Hazchem signage for bulkdangerous goods

Hazchem codes must be displayed on oradjacent to the tank or bulk container.

Hazchem codes The Hazchem code provides advisoryinformation to emergency servicespersonnel, enabling them to takeappropriate action to combat theincident. For example, the code forchlorine gas is 2XE.

The Dangerous Goods Class Labels arean international system for identifyingthe primary hazard of varioussubstances––whether the substance is agas, a flammable liquid, a poison or acorrosive substance. They are shown inthe diamond on the right hand side ofany composite labels.

Chemical storage quantities(Schedule 2)

Schedule 2 of the Dangerous Goods(Storage and Handling) Regulations2000 describes the quantities ofchemicals stored that triggerenforcement of placarding and manifestrequirements. The prescribed quantitiesmay depend on the packaging class.

Separation distancesfor chemicals

Many chemicals can be dangerous ifstored too close to other dangerousgoods, or near public places. There maybe interactions and hazards involved.For information on appropriateseparation distances, refer to theDangerous Goods (Storage andHandling) Regulations 2000 and theVictorian WorkCover Authority.

SafetyMAP (previously“chemical notifiers”)The Victorian WorkCover Authority hasdeveloped an auditing tool to helporganisations of all sizes improve theirmanagement of health and safety. Theaudit criteria enable an organisation to:

• measure the performance of its healthand safety program

• implement a cycle of continuousimprovement

• benchmark its health and safetyperformance

• gain recognition for the standardsachieved by its health and safetymanagement system.


Table 1 Interpreting Hazchem codes

Hazchem Code Meaning

2XE Chlorine gas

2 Indicates that emergency services should use fog to combat the spill

X Indicates that emergency services should use full protective equipment, including breathing apparatus. They should contain the dangerous goods on-site, and seekto avoid spillage into drains and waterways.

E Indicates that the officer in charge of the emergency should consider evacuating the site.

Table 2 Classes of common dangerous goods kept at pools

Class Description Common chemical

Class 2.2 Non flammable, non toxic gas Carbon dioxide gas

Class 2.3 Toxic gas Chlorine gas

Class 3 Flammable liquids Petrol

Class 5.1 Oxidising substances Calcium hypochloriteTrichloroisocyanuric acid

Class 8 Corrosive substances Hydrochloric acidSodium hypochlorite


Material Safety Data Sheets(MSDS) Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) area key to working safely with chemicals.MSDS are prepared by manufacturersand importers for the chemicals theyproduce or supply and help protect thehealth and safety of employees workingwith hazardous chemicals.

An MSDS describes the chemical andany health hazards and precautions forsafe handling and use. If the chemical isalso a dangerous good, an MSDSprovides information about itsclassification, United Nations numbers,packaging group, chemical and physicalproperties, storage, incompatiblesubstances and procedures for handlingleaks or spills.

Worksafe Australia’s National Code ofPractice for the Preparation of MaterialSafety Data Sheets explains the requiredformat and content.

Are MSDS compulsory?

Occupational Health and Safety(Hazardous Substances) Regulations1999 require that manufacturers andimporters of hazardous substancesensure that an MSDS is prepared for thesubstance, before it is first supplied foruse at a workplace. Suppliers andmanufacturers are also required tosupply an MSDS on request.

Employers must obtain an MSDS foreach hazardous substance they use. TheMSDS can be used to develop ways ofminimising exposure when using thesubstance in a workplace.

Sections of the MSDS

Generally, an MSDS has four mainsections. These are described in Table 3.

Codes of practice Pool managers should be familiar with arange of existing codes of practice.These include a number of Codespublished by Health and SafetyVictoria, on:

• first aid in the workplace

• manual handling

• noise

• plant

• storage and handling of dangerousgoods.

Information contained in these Codesmay affect pools, so management andowners of facilities should be familiarwith them and follow them if applicable.

Guidelines for Safe PoolOperation (GSPO) The Royal Life Saving Society Australia’sGuidelines for Safe Pool Operation(GSPO) was first published in 1991, witha second edition released in 1996. As‘guidelines’, the GSPO are secondary toany act, regulation or code of practice.However, they should be used as theindustry guide to supervising aquaticfacilities. Topics include:

• first aid

• facility design

• supervision

• learn-to-swim programs

• general operations.

Table 3 Main components of the MSDS

Section Content Example

Identification This section describes the Flashpointproduct, its ingredients and The lowest temperature at which therephysical and chemical properties is enough vapour to ignite. Petrol has a

flashpoint of about minus 40°C. Therefore, in all normal situations there will be enough vapour released from liquid petrol to ignite.

Health Hazard This section describes known Acute exposureInformation health effects from acute Inhaling mists may produce

(immediate) and chronic respiratory irritation and coughing.(long-term) exposures to the Inhaling high concentrations maysubstance. First aid information cause fatal respiratory collapse.is also given for acute exposures.

Precautions Any exposure standards, Personal Protective Equipmentfor use engineering controls, such as PVC gloves should be used when

mechanical ventilation isolation, or handling this substance.and suitable protective Engineering and other controlsequipment for use with a Capture the substance at the sourcesubstance is given here. for safe disposal using local

exhaust ventilation.

Safe handling This section details how the Response to a fireinformation substance should be stored Some substances release toxic vapours

and transported, how to clean when they burn; others may explode.up spills and what may happen In these cases, staff and others shouldto the substance in a fire or know how to evacuate the area andwhen mixed with incompatible not attempt to put out a fire involvingsubstances. the substance, without assistance

from authorities.

Australian Standards Pool operators may find further valuableinformation relating to the aquaticindustry in a number of key publicationsfrom Standards Australia. Table 4Australian Standards lists some thatmay be useful.

Environment ProtectionAuthority The Environment Protection Authority(EPA) is responsible for protectingVictoria’s environment from pollution, byminimising and controlling waste andnoise. It does this through a range ofstatutory and non-statutory processesand programs.

State Environmental ProtectionPolicies (SEPPs)

The Environment Protection Act 1970provides for the formulation of StateEnvironmental Protection Policies(SEPPs). Of most interest to pooloperators is the SEPP––Waterways ofVictoria, 2003.

This policy applies to all governmentorganisations, private and individuals inVictoria. It identifies beneficial uses ofVictorian surface waters to be protected,

specifies indicators to measure anddefine environmental quality, setsenvironmental quality objectives anddetails a program to attain and maintainthese objectives.

Discharge of waste from pools

In the SEPP––Waterways of Victoria,minimum requirements for dischargefrom municipal and commercialswimming pools are given. Discharge ofwaste from municipal and commercialswimming pools must conform to severalrequirements relating to filter backwashand pool content.

Filter backwash

According to the SEPP, filter backwashmay be discharged to land, sewer,treated via a solids settling tank, with thesupernatant recycled back into the pool,or treated and discharged to surfacewaters. When filter backwash or poolcontents are discharged to surfacewaters, the water must have totalresidual chlorine less than 0.1 ppm(parts per million) and suspended solidsless than 10 ppm. When re-used in thepool, total dissolved solids andcombined chlorine levels will rapidlyaccumulate in pool water.

Figure 4 Backwash tank

The backwash tank should be appropriately sizedto retain the entire contents of the backwash.

Discharge water

Discharge water should be analysed byan accredited laboratory, to ensure itconforms with the SEPP––Waterways ofVictoria. Results must be submitted tothe EPA within 28 days of the samplesbeing taken and the volume of thedischarge must be recorded.

waterMAPSUnder the Water Act 1989 and WaterIndustry Act 1993, major water users arerequired to improve their water efficiencythrough the implementation of their ownwater Management Action Plan(waterMAP). A waterMAP requireseligible non-residential water customersto assess their current water use, identifyinefficiencies and opportunities for watersavings, prepare an action plan toimplement water conservation activitiesand annually report on theimplementation of such activities. ThewaterMAP must be submitted to therelevant local water corporation.


Table 4 Australian Standards

AS1470–1986 Health and safety at work––principles and practices.

AS1668.2—2002 The use of mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning in buildings: ventilation design for indoor air contaminant control.

AS1885.1—1990 Code of practice for recording and measuring work injury experience.

AS2610.1—2007 Spa pools––public spas.

AS/NZS2865—2001 Safe working in a confined space.

AS/NZS2927—2001 Storage and handling of liquefied chlorine gas.

AS/NZS3633—1989 Private swimming pools––water quality.

AS3780—1994 The storage and handling of corrosive substances.

AS3979—2006 Hydrotherapy pools.


Infrastructure

OverviewPools are complicated structures andmake serious demands on design,construction, operation andmaintenance. The Pool operators’handbook is principally concerned withoperation; however, design andconstruction are critical to successfuloperation. Design is the first issue to beconsidered for new and existingstructures and should be addressed incollaboration with all parties responsiblefor design, construction and operation. Itis important to ensure the design andend usage take into consideration theOccupational Health and Safety Act 2004.

Water treatment systems are an integralpart of the architectural, structural andmechanical design, and should beaddressed from the very start of theproject. Water treatment plant designmust, initially and crucially, take intoaccount potential bathing load,circulation rate, turnover and dilution,choice of treatment system, filtration,circulation hydraulics, plant room andoperation. Overall, the design mustconform to the appropriate standards orguidelines for maintaining safety and thechemical and microbiological quality ofthe water.

At all stages of design and construction,the Occupational Health and Safety(Plant) Regulations 1995 should beconsidered to ensure compliance.

Although the Handbook cannot adviseon the details of design, it does indicatethe areas that need to be covered in adesign brief. Finally, there is advice onobtaining specialist design andcontracting help.

Design briefWater treatment is just one factor withinthe design of what may be a multi-useleisure complex. The starting point fordesign is a full assessment ofcommunity needs and potentialdemands, taking existing facilities intoaccount. Depending on the particularproject, there may have been a strategyprepared, a multi-discipline project teamappointed, a feasibility studycommissioned, and decisions made onlocation and finance.

The end of this stage should result in theappointment of a pool manager and anarchitect qualified in pool design. Thepool manager and architect should worktogether to produce a design brief thatwill consider the type of facilityproposed. The design brief shouldconsider:

• the type and amount of use envisaged,for example: swimming, therapy,education or leisure

• structural features, such as moveablefloors or booms to convertcompetition or diving pools intoteaching or leisure pools

• joint-use arrangements

• possible shared treatment plant fordifferent pools

• changing rooms and their accessibility

• street access to the facility

• fire and emergency evacuation

• capital cost

• operational cost

• ease of use

• lifespan.

It is uncommon for one person––consultant, architect, manager, pooloperator or other staff––to be familiarwith or have expertise in all thesetechnical issues. However, personsresponsible for a new building oralteration do need to be aware of thefollowing important areas, and take theminto account when working on thedesign of a pool complex.

Bathing load, circulation rateand turnover

Bathing load dictates the rate ofcirculation or turnover period required.Bathing load and pool volume should beconsidered together to determine thesize of filtration plant and the choice ofwater treatment system. These issuesare central to good water quality.

Water treatment

From a design perspective, the followingfactors should be considered:

• pool type (recreation, hydrotherapy,toddlers, spa and so on)

• pool temperature

• method of removing suspended andcolloidal matter

• oxidising agents

• disinfection system

• coagulants

• ph adjustment

• water balance

• fresh water dilution

• effects on air quality

• plant size and operation

• plant personnel; training

• water testing and recording

• plant monitoring and control

• energy and operation costs

• chemical storage and handling.

Swimming pool design



Hydraulics

The design of water movement demandsattention to:

• pool size and shape (including profile)

• size, number and location (includingsafety considerations) of pool waterinlets and outlets

• design and correct sizing of thefiltration plant, including filters andfiltration rates (see the chapter‘Monitoring systems’)

• size and routing of circulatorypipework

• size and location of balance tank

• water circulation within thebalance tank

• transfer channels

• pumping and location of sump pump

• integration of water features

• moving floors and booms

• effect of evaporation (normal andinduced by water features) on relativehumidity in the pool complex

• effect of water movement onnoise levels

• pool location.

Plant room

Many issues need to be considered atthe design stage:

• size and location of plant room, takinginto account filter specifications, thescale of other water treatment plant,flooded pump conditions and shortsuction pipework lines

• location of other plant items andductwork

• plant layout for ease of operation andmaintenance

• interfaces and coordination with otherbuilding elements, including ventilationintakes (well away from plant roomand chemical stores)

• access for plantreplacement/refurbishment

• access for chemical deliveries

• special bunded storage areasfor chemicals

• waste water and drainagerequirements

• health and safety requirements

• plant room environment relating totemperature, humidity, ventilationand noise

• builders’ work requirements

• electrical requirements.

Specialist help Successfully building or substantiallyrefurbishing a swimming pool demandsa clear understanding of the distinctionbetween design and installation. It isalso important that the responsibility forissues of design and installation isclearly identified.

Who designs the pool?

Water treatment design requiresspecialist engineering knowledge, whichneeds to be recruited together with thearchitect and structural andenvironmental service engineers. Thisknowledge, which is critical to producinga satisfactory design, is available fromtwo sources:

• consultants––can provideindependent specialist advice and whoare appointed as full members of thedesign team

• contractors––can work to theconsultants’ brief and specifications,to their own schedule or to a client’s.

Bathing load and circulation rate

Bathing load is a difficult issue in poolwater management. There may bepressure to maximise income byoverloading the pool. For a new pool, atleast, there is no excuse for not planningand maintaining a realistic relationshipbetween bathing numbers and pool andtreatment plant capacity. The turnoverrate must be sufficient to cope withmaximum bather load at all times, tomaintain water quality in accordancewith the Health (Infectious Diseases)Regulations 2001.

The pool capacity should be determinedat the design stage. Unlike some othercountries, Australia does not have setformulas relating to water turnover orsquare metres per pool area to regulatebather loads. Australian Standards(AS3979) recommend a two-hourturnover for hydrotherapy pools, andevery 20 minutes for spa pools(AS2610.1).

Choice of treatment system

When choosing a water treatmentsystem, these aspects should beconsidered:

• the quality of the water supply

• the type of pool

• likely bathing loads

• desired water quality

• the pool hall atmosphere

• the skills required to operatethe system.

Those responsible for deciding on atreatment system should call on theexperience of other managers andoperators of similar facilities.

When a system is chosen, assess thetypes and amounts of chemicalsrequired and how they are stored, toensure adherence to regulations andguidelines. The testing chemicals mayalso need to be assessed.

Filtration

Filters should operate for 24 hours a dayto deal with the pollution arising frompool users. If water quality can bemaintained, it may be possible to reducethe flow rate overnight. If the filters arenot effective, turbidity (generallymeaning ‘suspended solids’) will not beadequately reduced, whatever theturnover period. In some circumstances,an inefficient filter yielding an effluentcontaining suspended matter may in factincrease turbidity, not improve clarity.Effective filtration, well-maintained filtermedia and a short turnover period willensure that suspended solids areremoved. (More information aboutfiltration is provided in the chapter‘Physical management of water’.)

Circulation hydraulics

A well-designed circulation systemwithin the pool will ensure that treatedwater reaches all parts of the pool and

contaminated water is removed fromareas most used by bathers. If effectivecirculation is not achieved, watertreatment may not necessarily providegood water quality. Conversely, first-ratecirculation hydraulics may allow an over-stretched water treatment system toproduce decent pool water.

Inlets, outlets and surface waterwithdrawal are crucial. A wet decksystem (where pool water level is withthe surrounds) with a balance tank andpool surround collecting channels, isparticularly efficient. In this way, 50 to100 per cent of the total circulationvolume can be removed from thesurface, where pollution is greatest.Leisure pools, particularly if they are tohave a freeboard area for water featuressuch as waves, may allow only a partialwet deck system. (For more informationon circulation, see the chapter on‘Monitoring systems’.)

Plant room

Plant room design should take intoconsideration four key issues: location,size, access and segregation.

Location

The location of the filtration and watertreatment system, in relation to the pool,critically affects hydraulic design.Circulation pumps should, ideally,operate under flooded suctionconditions and be situated near thebalance tank and near extraction pointsfrom the pool. If the pumps have to besome distance from the balance tank,increasing the suction pipe size mayimprove pump performance. If the plantroom has to be at pool surround level,the pump can be installed in a well, toprovide flooded suction conditions. Ifthere is no balance tank, the connectionbetween pool water and pumps must bedesigned to keep air out of thecirculation.



Size and access

The size of the plant room (watertreatment plant only) will typically bebetween 15 and 30 per cent of the poolwater area. It should be sized to ensuregood access, both to the plant roomitself and for plant room equipmentoperation, maintenance andreplacement. When designing a plantroom, maintenance and replacement ofmajor plant components should beconsidered. Filter media will need to bereplaced periodically.

Segregation

Certain equipment needs to besegregated. For example, chemicalstorage and dosing units should ideallybe housed in separate, secure storagerooms. Electrical control panels,chemical control units and ozonegenerators should be in clean, dry areasaway from chemical stores.

Operation

The water treatment contractor shouldprovide training for the plant operator,during commissioning of the plant andalso once it is operating. Themanagement and operator should bepresent for the critical process ofcommissioning. Commissioning shouldincorporate system checking for healthand safety requirements, including plantroom and the safety of any waterfeatures, and comply with all designspecifications.

The water treatment design brief shouldrequire the provision of operation andmaintenance manuals (including plantand pipe layout drawings and electricalcircuits). It should also detail how thesystem is to be operated. These briefsshould list the necessary daily, weekly,monthly and annual checks.

Choosing water treatmentspecialists

The Consultant

A water treatment consultant shoulddevelop the brief, produce a competentdesign, detailed drawings andspecifications, and monitor theinstallation work on-site. Whencompetitive tenders are needed, theconsultant will be particularly valuable inensuring that they are based on anequivalent level of specification andscope of work.

It is important that the consultant hasappropriate qualifications andexperience for the project beingundertaken and does not limitspecifications to any one particularmanufacturer’s equipment. Purchasersof consultancy services and owners ofthe facility should pursue references,and verify skills and experience byinterview.

The Contractor

A water treatment contractor can beappointed to design as well as install theplant, if the client has a good designbrief/specification. The choice ofcontractor then becomes particularlyimportant.

In any case, the contractor should beresponsible for the supply, installationand commissioning of the system, andfor installing equipment from reputablemanufacturers. There is no singlemethod for finding the right contractor;however, the following guidelines may beuseful for selecting contractors andmanufacturers:

• Consider members of trade andprofessional associations first.

• Contractors may offer some form ofquality assurance––see ISO9000.Where contractors provide a designwarranty, they should be qualified toPart 1 of this standard. This shouldimply a quality system, though notnecessarily a quality product.

• Check previous work, by visitinginstallations and viewing referencesfrom clients, architects and engineers.References should comment ondesign ability, performance duringcontract, reliability of equipmentrecommended and used,commissioning and staff trainingrecord, standard of operating andmaintenance manuals and after-salesservice.

• A long and successful record of qualitywork is a positive indication.

• Good contractors, like goodconsultants and good suppliers, will befamiliar with this Handbook.

OverviewThe Pool operators’ handbook has beencompiled to provide advice to allnon-domestic pool operators. Mostpools are rectangular swimming poolswithout extra water features and areused by people of all ages. The followingdescribes a range of conventional poolsin specific applications, as well as anumber of non-conventional pools.Please note this is not an exhaustive listof pool types. Other names may becommonly used, but must still meet therequirements of the Health (InfectiousDiseases) Regulations 2001.

Competition pools

For short-courses (championships) thepool should be 25 m long, ideally witheight lanes at least 2.0 m wide, withtwo spaces of at least 0.2 m outside thefirst and last lanes. The minimumrequired depth is 1.0 m.

Olympic and World Championship poolsshould be 50 m long by 25 m wide, witha minimum depth of 2.0 m, with at leasteight lanes 2.5 m wide, with two spacesof 2.5 m outside of lanes one and eight.

Diving pools

For steep-entry dives from springboardsand fixed platforms, a specially designedpool is needed. The depth and area ofwater for a diving pool or pit is determinedby FINA regulations. A one-metrespringboard requires minimum waterdepth of 3.4 m and a ten-metre platformrequires a depth of 5 m.

Further information regardingspecifications for competition pools aredescribed in the FINA (InternationalSwimming Federation) Handbook.

Adjustable (flexible) pools

These pools incorporate a moveablefloor and/or bulkhead (boom). Themoveable floor gives variable depth. Thesemi-submerged bulkhead divides thepool into two, in any proportion.Perforated panels allow water flowbetween pools. It is important that theturnover period should cope with thelargest bathing load possible.

Dual use pools/school pools

Two or more different types of customersuse these pools at different times. Theterm is usually applied to a school poolthat is also opened to the public forsome sessions. If a new pool is plannedfor dual use, the design (circulation,filtration, disinfection and so on) shouldaccommodate the demands of a higherbather load.

If an existing school pool is to be openedto the public, care should be taken toascertain its bathing load and not toexceed it. In either case, seriousconsideration should be given to thetraining and qualifications of thoseresponsible for the operation andmanagement.

Adequately trained non-specialist staffusing simple disinfection and filtrationsystems may manage school pools thatare only ever used by pupils in controlledswimming sessions quite successfully.But if the public uses them, or if there isa real possibility that this will happen inthe future, then the guidance above fordual use pools should be followed. Inany case it is better, if practicable, tofollow the guidelines given in thisHandbook for conventional pools.

Hydrotherapy/warm waterexercise pools

These are generally smaller poolsspecifically designed for physiotherapyand gentle exercise. Operatingtemperatures of over 32°C arerecommended. Specific design andconstruction requirements are outlinedin AS3979. Pool users and staff usethese types of pools for long periods.As a result, they are more demanding tomanage than conventional pools––or atleast, the consequences of basicmistakes can be more immediateand dramatic.

Lazy and rapid rivers

Lazy and rapid rivers are sometimesreferred to as ‘moving water’. In rapidrivers, pumps and jets under the watersurface create a rapid water flow.Because the water flow is rapid,circulation hydraulics is not a problem.However, lazy rivers with large volumesof water that are not continually flowingmay cause some water contaminationproblems. Pool operators will need tomonitor the water quality carefully in thistype of application, or ensure that aconstant flow is created.

Splash pools

These are specially designed areas ofwater in which a rider safely completesthe descent of a water slide or waterflume. If the splash pool shares its watercirculation with that of a main pool, theturnover must be able to cope with thehighest bathing load possible. Batherpollution will tend to be high for theamount of water involved, so hydraulicsis important.

Types of pools



Salt water pools

Treatment of saline pools should be thesame as for fresh water pools, exceptthat the materials used in filters, pipesand pumps should be resistant to saltwater corrosion.

Spa pools

There are many types of spa pools, butthey all have their use in common: theyare for sitting in, rather than swimming,and contain water usually between 32°Cand 40°C, filtered and chemicallytreated. A pool with untreated water thatis replaced after each user, and wateragitation of some sort, is a spa bath.

Bathing loads may be high in spas.Combined with the high temperatures,this can make it difficult to maintainsatisfactory disinfectant residuals, pHvalues and microbiological quality. Ingeneral, good water quality can bemaintained by controlling both bathingloads and intervals between sessions(both of which can be specified in thedesign), turnover periods of less than20 minutes, adequate filtration, andemptying at least once a week––evendaily, when loading is high. Refer toAustralian Standard for Public SpasAS2610.1.

Spas may have particular difficulties withthe safety requirements for inlets andoutlets. The main criterion for designers,manufacturers and operators is to takeall reasonable precautions to prevent abather, or part of a bather’s body,becoming trapped.

Teaching pools/learn toswim/program pools

These are separate pools with a depth ofless than 1.0 m, that is, they have a largesurface-area-to-volume ratio. Pollution islikely to be high when young childrenuse them, so bathing load control isparticularly important. Turnover periodsshould be short and filtration standardsas effective for conventional pools.

Particular attention should be paid todesign where a teaching pool is to sharefiltration plant with other pools––separate the disinfectant monitoring,controls and heating.

Leisure pools

There are many different types of ‘leisurepools’, and many conventional pools arebecoming ‘leisurised’. They tend to havein common an irregular shape and moreshallow areas than a conventional pool.This makes for less predictablehydraulics and disinfectant dynamics.Therefore, circulation patterns andinlet/outlet positions should be carefullydesigned. Bather loads and turnoverperiods need to be taken into accountduring the design phase. In general,turnover periods will have to be less than90 minutes.

The unusual water volumes involved, anda tendency to high-localisedconcentrations of bathers, can alsoresult in contamination problems.

Water features will tend to distort thedynamics of water treatment.Disinfection systems should be assophisticated (in terms of automaticdosing and monitoring), as the pools arein terms of features. It is recommendedthat water features use water directlyfrom the treatment plant.

Access to the pool from areas such asartificial beaches and lawn areas, andvaried use of the pool, can all introducenovel forms of pollution. At the veryleast, it is wise to have a realistic regimeof pre-swim hygiene. Good showers andtoilets, well signposted, withencouragement to use them, will assistwith water quality maintenance.

Outdoor pools

Outdoor pools inherit special problems,caused by changes in the weather. Insummer, sudden sunshine may bring alarge increase in bathers and adegradation of the chlorine disinfectantby ultraviolet light. Chlorine can bestabilised by adding cyanuric acid. Theoften large volumes of water in outdoorpools should help the pool cope withincreases in bathing load, but if theturnover of the large volume is slow, itmay be difficult to maintain theappropriate disinfectant residualthroughout the pool.

Appropriate management and testing willaccommodate pools that are sensitive tofluctuating demands.

Toddler pools

Toddler pools are likely to need the samesort of attention described for outdoorpools. They may be highly pollutedrelative to their volume, because childrenwill tend to urinate in them andintroduce other forms of pollution.

Disinfectant residuals should bemaintained as for conventional pools.This may be more difficult if the pool isoutdoors due to pollution for othersources, for example, birds and otherforeign matter blown in. In this case, thewater may need to be changedregularly––daily if practicable––but thisdepends on filtration efficiency andbuild-up of chloramine and totaldissolved solids.

If circumstances make proper hygienestandards impossible to maintain, poolmanagers should consider closing thetoddler pool altogether.

Plunge pools

These are used in association withsaunas and spas to cool bathers byimmersion in unheated water. They maybe big enough for just one person, orlarge enough to swim in. The watershould be disinfected and filtered like aconventional pool. Special considerationshould be given to the introduction ofbody fats and other contaminants. Goodsurface water draw-off and regular waterreplacement are key considerations.

Wave pools

These are usually incorporated into afree-form leisure pool. Waves aregenerated at one end, which requires ahigh free board. The waves cross thepool to dissipate on a beach area.Surface water draw-off needs attention,as does water quality in the wavegeneration chambers.

Zero depth splash grounds

Although these facilities are not coveredby the Health (Infectious Diseases)Regulations 2001, they could be apotential source of infection. Thedepartment recommends that thesefacilities have appropriate treatment andfiltration to minimise the risks associatedwith them.



Health and hygiene

OverviewPool users can be affected bydisease-causing microorganisms(pathogens), transmitted bycontaminated pool water, contaminatedsurfaces or person-to-person contact.Illnesses such as gastroenteritis andinfections of the skin, eyes or respiratorysystem may result.

Swallowing pool water can increase therisk of disease. Even in well maintainedpools, some pathogens such asCryptosporidium can remain infectious.Patrons with diarrhoea and nappy-agedchildren pose the largest risk ofcontamination to pools and facilities.

Pool operators are encouraged to adopta risk management approach to preventdisease transmission. Strategies includestaff and patron education, encouraginghygienic practices, and maintainingoptimal control of pool operations.

For more information about healthyswimming advice please visithttp://www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/.

Cryptosporidium resists normallevels of disinfectants and cansurvive for days in pool water.

Contamination is mainly introduced bypool users, but also via the environment.It can occur within the pool itself, on thepool deck, or in facilities such aschanging rooms.

Environmental contamination isespecially relevant to outdoor pools,where organic material such as dust,soil, sand, leaves and grass is constantlyin and around the pool. Birds and otheranimals can also contaminate the poolwith droppings, reducing the levels ofavailable disinfectant in the pool.

Pool users may contaminate the poolwith faecal material, body fluids, hair,skin, lotions and cosmetics. Smallamounts of faecal material can comefrom the skin of bathers, particularlythose with diarrhoea or children wearingnappies. Bathers may continue sheddinginfectious pathogens for days or weeksafter their diarrhoea symptoms cease.Large amounts may arise from faecalaccidents.

To prevent contamination, pool userswho have had a diarrhoeal illness shouldnot use any swimming pool untilsymptoms cease. If a person has aconfirmed diagnosis of an infection withCryptosporidium (cryptosporidiosis), theyshould not swim for two weeks aftersymptoms have ceased.

Staff or patrons with diarrhoeashould not use the pool until aftertheir symptoms cease.

The risk of pool contamination isincreased by:

• high bather loads during peakperiods

• swimmers with a diarrhoeal illnessor faecal incontinence

• use by nappy-aged children

• insufficient disinfectant levels inthe water, or inadequate filtration.

Sources of contamination


http://www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming


Although normal disinfectant levels willinactivate most pathogens, it takes timeto work. Bacteria are usually inactivatedquickly by disinfectants, but viruses andparasites may persist for much longer.Variations in disinfection time for a rangeof pathogenic organisms are shown inTable 5. Pool facilities and sharedequipment can also transmit pathogens.

Table 5: Disinfection times forselected pathogens in pools

Contaminant Disinfection time*

E. coli bacteria < 1 minute

Hepatitis A virus 16 minutes

Giardia parasite 45 minutes

Cryptosporidium 9600 minutesparasite (6.7 days)

* 1 mg/L (1 ppm) chlorine at pH 7.5 and 25°CSource: Centres for Disease Controlhttp://www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/fecalacc.htm Accessed 04/12/2006

The risk of transmission increases if poolwater disinfectant is not maintained atappropriate levels, or if pool facilities arenot cleaned adequately.

BacteriaMaintaining routine disinfection levelswill normally inactivate bacteria in poolwater, but if disinfectant levels drop, theycan quickly proliferate.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria maycause eye, ear and skin infections andhave been associated with diseaseoutbreaks where the pool water wasinadequately disinfected. Particular careshould be taken with spa pools, as thewater turbulence, temperature and heavybather loads increase the risk ofPseudomonas growth.

Legionella bacteria are found in soil,rivers and creeks. Infection withLegionella can lead to Pontiac fever orLegionnaires’ disease, a severerespiratory illnesses caused by inhalingcontaminated aerosols. Legionnaires’disease has not been associated withtransmission through swimming pools,but has been transmitted by poorlymaintained and disinfected spa pools,fountains and showers.

Escherichia coli are bacteria whichcolonise human intestines and theirpresence in pool water indicates thatthere is likely to be faecal contaminationin the pool. Some types of E. coli cancause serious disease in humans andtransmission may occur throughinadequately treated pool water.

Shigella, Salmonella and Campylobacterare other bacteria that can causegastroenteritis and can be transmittedthrough untreated or inadequatelytreated water.

Mycobacterium marinum (“swimmingpool granuloma”) is a very uncommoninfection causing skin ulceration ornodules which may be associated withinadequately chlorinated pools.

VirusesMany viruses are highly infectious andcan be transmitted through water.Although recommended disinfectionconcentrations effectively inactivatethem in most circumstances, they aremore resistant to chlorine than bacteria.

A range of viruses, includingenteroviruses, adenoviruses andnorovirus may be transmitted throughswimming pools. Many of these willcause gastroenteritis. Some such asadenoviruses may cause eye and throatinfections. Some types of enterovirusinfections may result in meningitis.

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral diseasethat causes small round bumps(papules), on the skin. It has beenassociated with transmission throughswimming pools, with direct contactbetween people or sharing towels likelyways of becoming infected.

Plantar warts grow on the bottomsurface of the foot. They are caused bythe human papillomavirus. Infection ismore likely where the skin of the feet isdamaged or constantly damp. Wetenvironments such as shower blocksand pool surrounds can facilitate spreadof this virus.

Infections and conditions associated with pool use

http://www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/fecalacc.htm

Protozoal parasitesCryptosporidium and Giardia areparasites that cause gastrointestinaldisease. Infection occurs when they areshed in the faeces of an infected person,and are ingested by another, such aswhen swallowing contaminated water.Once a person has been infected, theparasite multiplies in the intestine and ispassed in the stool. Because theparasite is protected by an outer shell, itcan survive outside the body in theenvironment for a long time. Symptomsinclude diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea andabdominal pain. Sometimes there are nosymptoms at all, but the parasites maystill be excreted in large numbers by theinfected person.

Pool water disinfectants atrecommended residual levels have onlya limited effect on Giardia, and areineffective against Cryptosporidium.Normal filtration processes take time toremove these organisms, and testing forthe parasites in water is difficult. IfCryptosporidium is suspected, the levelof disinfectant may need to be increased(see the chapter ‘Water treatment’).Adding coagulant to the water andfrequent backwashing of filters is highlyrecommended. Advice from theDepartment of Human Services shouldbe sought where a problem withCryptosporidium is suspected.

The most effective way to controltransmission of Cryptosporidium is toprevent it getting into pool water.

Cryptosporidium is veryresistant to disinfectants atnormal levels. Prevention is thebest means of control. For more information download the factsheet from http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/cryptosporidium.htm.

Amoebae, such as Naegleria fowlerioccur naturally in environments such asmineral springs and thermal bores.Although unlikely to be a problem inswimming pools in Victoria, operators offacilities that use natural water sourcesshould be aware of the potential hazard.Amoebae thrive in shallow warm waterand occasionally can infect a swimmerthrough the nose. Although rare, a fatalinfection of the brain and membranescovering the brain can result.Maintaining the required level ofdisinfectant2 in pool water will rapidly killthese organisms. Circulation systems,including balance tanks, should bedesigned to avoid prolonged periods ofstagnation.

FungiTinea pedis (‘Athlete’s Foot’) is a fungalinfection causing an itchy scalingbetween the toes. The fungi are spreadby contact with damp floor surfaces,such as showers or around pools.

Chemical irritantsSwimming pool disinfectants may causeskin, eye and respiratory irritation. Highlevels of chloramines (free chlorine)bound to ammonia compounds such assweat and urine, give pools their‘chlorine smell’ and can causesymptoms particularly in indoor pools.Manage this by increasing the airturnover in the pool area with fresh air,and ensuring that pools are regularlytreated with raised levels of disinfectantto remove the chloramines, particularlyafter periods of high bather load.

Outbreaks and notificationThe Department of Human Servicesconducts surveillance for a range ofnotifiable infectious diseases that maybe transmitted in swimming pools.Cryptosporidium cases may be linked toa public swimming facility if two or morepeople with confirmed infection haveused the same pool within two weeks ofdeveloping their illness. In this situation,pool operators may need to seek advicefrom the department and undertakeadditional procedures such as closingthe affected swimming pool until it hasbeen treated with increased levels ofdisinfectant. It is important to ensurethat the total chlorine level in a treatedpool is less than 8 mg/L beforere-opening it to the public. If an outbreakis large or ongoing, the department mayrequest additional steps be undertaken.


2 See Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations2001––Part 7.

http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/cryptosporidium.htm


The most effective way to preventswimming pool contamination isprevention. This involves educating staffand patrons about the health issues,encouraging appropriate swimmerbehaviour and undertaking optimal poolmanagement processes. Signage shoulddisplay key messages that are describedin Education and signage.

Swimmer hygieneAll patrons should be encouraged bystaff to shower with soap beforeentering the pool and after going to thetoilet. Most people have small amountsof faecal material on their perianalregion, which can transfer pathogensinto the water. Appropriate signagein change rooms and toilets canencourage patrons to adopt morehygienic behaviours.

The pre-swim shower will washcontaminants down the drain, notinto your pool, but is still not enoughfor patrons with diarrhoeal illness.

Pool operators should ensure that theyhave adequate hygiene facilitiesavailable for patrons. Hand washingfacilities, including soap dispensers andhand-dryers or disposable hand towels,should be available at hand basins.Shower facilities should have warmwater available and be stocked withsoap. Provide sanitary and nappychanging facilities and nappy bins in thechange rooms. Hygiene facilities shouldbe sited close to the pool to allow easyaccess, and be well stocked andmaintained. Regular inspections andcleaning should be part of routinemanagement. Pool operators shouldplan to increase the frequency of these,according to swimmer numbers.

Swimmers with diarrhoeaPeople with diarrhoeal illness canexperience liquid faecal accidents, oftenundetectable in swimming pool settings.These types of accidents may containhuge amounts of pathogens, which maythen infect other bathers. After recoveryfrom diarrhoeal illness, patrons cancontinue to shed pathogens for days, oreven weeks. Pool users and staff whohave a diarrhoeal illness should not enterthe pool until after symptoms cease.In the case of confirmed diagnosis oroutbreak of Cryptosporidium infections,users and staff should not enter the poolfor two weeks after symptoms haveceased. All change rooms and toiletfacilities should contain appropriatesigns with this message.

Non-toilet trained infantsInfant ‘aqua-nappies’ and swim pants arecommonly used, but may give parentsand pool staff a false sense of securityabout faecal contamination. There is noscientific evidence to suggest that theycan prevent faeces (particularly if liquid)from leaking into the pool.

Parents should be reminded of theimportance of not swimming withdiarrhoea and waiting for the symptomsstop before swimming again. Regularnappy changing and frequent trips to thetoilet can further reduce the chance of afaecal accident. Prohibit nappy changingat poolside, as this may contaminate thesurfaces of the pool deck.

Education and signagePool operators are encouraged topromote healthy swimming behavioursamongst staff and patrons, inaccordance with their duty of care.Signage is an important aspect of publiceducation, with key messages displayedin the entrance foyer and amenitiesareas. During outbreaks, the Departmentof Human Services may requestadditional signage be displayed, tofurther increase awareness.

Swimmers should be asked to assist inmaintaining a healthy swimmingenvironment through signage. Keymessages to feature on signs include:

• Do not use this pool if you havediarrhoea.

• Do not swallow pool water.

• Practice good hygiene––shower beforeswimming and wash hands after usingthe toilets.

• Take children to the toilets regularly.

• Do not change nappies besidethe pool.

Children’s pool designand filtration Children’s pools are at high risk of faecalaccidents and should ideally have aseparate filtration system. If thechildren’s pool’s filtration system islinked to other pools, faecalcontamination can disperse. Similarly,infant pool activities should be restrictedto toddler pools, where possible. If thepools are not on separate systems,consider separating pool circulationsystems when facilities are upgraded.

Risk management

Pool staffPool staff need to have a goodunderstanding of the range of illnessesand health conditions transmittedthrough pool water, particularly the factthat Cryptosporidium is a microscopicparasite which is resistant to normallevels of disinfectant, and that peoplewith diarrhoea should not use the pooluntil their symptoms have ceased. Allstaff should be trained in the relevantoperational procedures, particularly thefaecal accident policy.


Optimal control and management ofswimming pools and spas is essential tomaintaining the required water quality.

Bather loadThe bather load generally introducespollution to a pool. High bather loadscan place additional demands ondisinfectant levels and filters, so extracare should be taken during these times.

Filter maintenanceFiltration systems should be maintainedto provide optimum efficiency andoperate 24 hours a day.

Hot water systems Systems serving showers and handbasins should deliver water at less than43°C, to prevent scalding. The mainboilers should be maintained attemperatures not below 60°C, to preventcolonisation by Legionella bacteria. Thetemperature reduction required can beachieved by mixing valves.

Tepid water systems (or modified tepidwater systems that keep temperaturesbelow 60°C) must be maintained inaccordance with the Health (Legionella)Regulations 2001. Instantaneous hotwater systems can be controlled toprovide water at these ranges, withoutthe need for storage or mixing valves.

Figure 5 Instantaneous hotwater system

Instantaneous hot water systems can be set toprovide warm water without mixing valves, orhaving to store hot or warm water.

Microbiological testingSwimming pools should be tested inaccordance with the Health (InfectiousDiseases) Regulations 2001. Specificpathogens, such as Cryptosporidium,cannot be detected by these methods,so routine testing for these organisms isnot recommended.

Faecal accident policies Pool operators should develop a formalfaecal accident policy that should beused to train staff and be available at alltimes. The treatment required willdepend upon the condition of the faecalmatter. Loose or liquid faecal matter(diarrhoea) requires greater treatmentthan a firm stool, as it tends to contain alarge number of microorganisms, willspread rapidly over a large area and isnot easily retrieved from the pool. Pooloperators will need to assess eachsituation and make a judgment about theexact action to be taken. The followingpolicies are recommendations by thedepartment and can be downloadedfrom http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/faecal.htm.

Solid faeces

1. All pool users in the immediate areashould be asked to exit the pool.

2. As much solid material as possibleshould be immediately removed fromthe pool, with a fine mesh scoop.If necessary, the immediate areashould be vacuumed and the wastedirected to the sewer or otherapproved waste disposal system.Vacuum equipment and scoopshould be cleaned and disinfectedbefore reuse.

3. If the pool is a low volume pool, suchas a paddling pool, consider closingand draining the pool.

4. Spa pools must be closed, drainedand cleaned, as the faecal matter willhave dispersed.

5. Once the solid matter has beenremoved, check that chlorine levelsand water clarity are within regulatorylimits. The affected area may bereopened, after allowing ten minutescontact time with the disinfectant.

6. Log the incident and the actiontaken.

Operational control and management


http://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/faecal.htm


Liquid faeces

1. The pool should be immediatelycleared of people.

2. If there are multiple pools connectedto the same filter as thecontaminated pool, all pools willhave to be cleared of people.

3. Using a fine mesh scoop,immediately remove as much faecalmaterial as possible from the pool.The area should also be vacuumed,with waste being directed to thesewer or other approved wastedisposal system. Clean and disinfectvacuum equipment and scoopbefore reuse.

4. If a low volume pool, such as apaddling pool, consider closing,draining and cleaning the pool.

5. Spa pools should be closed, drainedand cleaned.

6. Raise and maintain the free-chlorinelevel of the pool to 14 mg/L for12 hours, or 20 mg/L for eight hours.

7. A coagulant should be added(if appropriate), to improve theremoval of pathogens by thefiltration system.

8. The final level of chlorine and pHshould be checked, and if withinlimits of the Health (InfectiousDiseases) Regulations 2001, thepool may be reopened.

9. Log the incident and the actiontaken.

10. If possible, identify the source todetermine if the person has recentlybeen ill.

The department’s faecal accidentpolicy can be downloaded fromhttp://www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/water/faecal.htm.

Blood and vomitPool operators should develop a formalblood and vomit policy that should beused to train staff and be available at alltimes. The treatment required willdepend upon the amount of blood orvomit. Pool operators will need to assesseach situation and make a judgementabout the exact action to be taken.The following policy is recommended bythe department.

1. All pool users in the immediate areashould be asked to exit the pool.

2. As much solid material as possibleshould be immediately removed fromthe pool, with a fine mesh scoop.If necessary, the immediate areashould be vacuumed and the wastedirected to the sewer or otherapproved waste disposal system.Vacuum equipment and scoopshould be cleaned and disinfectedbefore reuse.

3. If the pool is a low volume pool, suchas a paddling pool, consider closingand draining the pool.

4. Spa pools must be closed, drainedand cleaned, as the blood or vomitwill have dispersed.

5. Once the solid matter has beenremoved, check that chlorine levelsand water clarity are within regulatorylimits. The affected area may bereopened, after allowing ten minutescontact time with the disinfectant.

6. Log the incident and the action taken.

Disinfecting contaminatedsurfacesContaminants on the pool deck shouldnever be washed into the pool watercirculation system.

pool operators’ handbook - golden plains shire...pool operators’ handbook disclaimer the pool...

Documents