FOUR: POOL SAFETY

SECTION FOUR Introduction

Pool Safety
The swimming pool is often one of the most important attractions
for customers when they book their holiday. Whether it’s a fun
filled activity pool for families or a luxurious relaxing spa pool, 95
it is essential that the experience is not only enjoyable, but as
safe as possible.

The Pool Safety section of this technical guide has been provided to
assist tourism accommodation providers and their staff identify the safety
measures and procedures that should be in place. It is anticipated that
the measures contained within this technical guide will be achievable
and will provide a basis on which to develop a more comprehensive
pool safety management programme.

Accommodation providers who cannot demonstrate reasonable pool

safety management should seek advice from a specialist and wherever
possible, upgrade their facilities and processes.

Any person using this technical guide should seek advice from a competent
pool safety specialist on any area which is not fully understood.

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Safety measures and procedures

Management responsibility Emergency procedures Pool design Maximum bathing load

Whilst the day-to-day management of pool safety There should be clearly documented emergency The design, size and layout of the pool(s) should The maximum bathing load is the greatest number
may be delegated to another member of staff, procedures. These procedures should include: be suitable for its intended use. For example, if the of bathers allowed at any one time. This should
the accommodation owner and manager of the property is intended for use as a family unit, be have been determined at the design stage for the
property have overall responsibility for the safe − The action to be taken by staff in the event realistic on how many people will use the pool pool. The water turnover rate and treatment plant
operation of their pool facilities and should monitor of a bodily fluid release such as blood, faeces and what the activities will be. size are derived from the maximum bathing load.
the pool safety features of the property to ensure or a vomit incident in the pool or the pool
they are operating correctly. surround The pool needs to have the appropriate safety The maximum bathing load takes into account:
96 measures in place and the water capacity to 97
They should ensure that staff who are employed to
− The action to be taken by staff in the event
of accidental exposure of staff or customers cope with the volume of persons expected. An • The surface area of water in the pool
manage and maintain a safe pool operation, receive
the appropriate training to undertake their role, and
to high concentrations of water treatment overcrowded pool is not only difficult to manage
but can cost money later with the need for extra
• The water depth
chemicals
that there are documented procedures in place that
− The action to be taken by staff in the event
chemical use and water demand. • The type of bathing activity the pool is
should be followed for the management of the pool intended to be used for.
facilities and water quality. of incorrect, insufficient or over-use of Things to consider include:
water treatment chemicals As a rough guide, 3m2 of water surface should
− The action to be taken by staff in the event
• Is the pool suitable for its intended use be allowed per person. More specific details are
e.g. families, young children or adult only? provided in the PWTAG (Pool Water Treatment
of an accident or injury in or around the pool
Advisory Group) guidelines.
or recreational water area • Is the pool sufficient in size for the intended
− Staff should be trained in the emergency bathing load?
procedures. • Is the shape of the pool suitable e.g. can you Shallow water
(under 1m)
1 bather per 2.2m2
see all around it or are there hidden areas?

• Is the pool depth suitable for its intended use Standing depth water 1 bather per 2.7m2
or too deep? (1-1.5m)

• Can the pool be easily maintained? Deep water 1 bather per 4m2
• Are there enough steps/ladders for bathers (over 1.5m)
to get in and out easily? Are they securely fixed
and in good condition?
The maximum bathing load for each pool should
• Is the area around the pool as non-slip as be documented.
possible and are grilles, grates and skimmers
in place and well constructed? Note: The bathing load may be reduced or
increased operationally, to take into account the
• Are the materials the pool is built from cleanliness of the pool water and the performance
durable and safe? of the treatment system.
• Are there any features installed e.g. rocks,
bridges, underwater walls and will they affect
the pool use/safety?

• What is in close proximity to the pool

e.g. children’s areas, bar, toilet facilities?

• Is pool lighting safe, secure and fitted by a

competent engineer?

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Pool features Pool depths and markings Pool surround Customer information

Underwater walls, ledges, tunnels etc. are features There is no specific guidance on pool depths, A large number of trips and slips occur around the Providing customers with information regarding the
where a bather could become trapped, disappear however many family pools are now designed to be pool side, and reasonable steps should be taken to use of the pool and pool areas is crucial. Multi-
from view, or present a diving or collision hazard. at the deepest point between 1.4m-1.6m. In order reduce the risk of incidents. boards and other prominently displayed signs
to ensure bathers are aware of the depth of the should be displayed close to the pool side advising
• If the pool(s) has underwater walls, submerged pool, depth markings should be provided. • The areas adjacent to the pool and the pool customers of the rules they should follow when
rocks or hidden surfaces below the water surround should be of a surface that is as using the pool facilities.
surfaces, these should be removed or built up • Depth markings around the pool should be: non-slip as possible to help minimise slips,
98 to be clearly visible at the water’s surface. It
– Present
trips and falls. • The multi-board signage should include: 99
is not sufficient in these circumstances to – The pool opening and closing hours
simply place warning signs at the poolside. – Prominent • There should not be any cracks or broken tiles
around the pool area. Regular visual checks – Children must be supervised at all times
• Where there is more than one pool and where – Frequent should be made and any cracked, broken or – The emergency action information
they are connected by a waterfall, river/stream, – Accurate. missing tiles should be repaired or replaced.
slides/slopes, bridge, walkway or other – To shower before entering the pool
decorative feature, safety warning notices To ensure that they are clearly visible, space • Prominently displayed and accessible rescue
– Whether there is a lifeguard on duty or not
should be clearly displayed around the them as a minimum at every 3m, where the equipment, such as throw lines, reach pole and
depth changes and where there is a sudden flotation aids e.g. life rings should be available – Not to use the pool if you have been ill in
pool advising customers of the danger and/or
change of depth. in easy reach of the pool. the last 48 hours.
appropriate behaviour e.g. “No Sliding”,
“No Diving/Jumping”. If the pool has any obvious sudden changes in • There should not be any trip hazards around • Public health information should be displayed
the pool side. If trip hazards are present that to inform customers of the specific public
• Steep slopes from adult standing depths depth from standing, then notices or preventative
measures to reduce the slopes danger should be can not be removed, they should be clearly health requirements including:
(1.4m to 1.6m) should be clearly and
prominently highlighted with the use of installed e.g. painted or buoyed lines, and the slope highlighted to bring them to the pool – How and where to change and dispose
painted and/or buoyed lines across the top should be further indicated by the use of additional users’ attention. of children’s nappies
depth markings.
of the slope, and further indicated by the
use of additional depth markings and shown
• All pool fixtures and fittings e.g. in-pool lights, – Swimwear must be worn
external lights around the pool, grilles, handrails, – Toddlers and babies are not permitted to
on pool information boards. steps, covers, filters must be in place, swim naked and should wear specifically
securely fitted and checked regularly to
• If the pool surround incorporates raised dive
ensure they are in full working order.
designed swimming nappies
allurements such as decorative rocks, urns, – Refrain from using the pool if you
bridges or other raised features, “No Diving”
signs should be displayed on the features
• There must be adequate means of access and have been ill in the last 48 hours
egress provided in both the shallow and deep
themselves. Where possible, consideration – Report faecal, sickness or other
ends of the pool.
should be given to removing the raised related accidents in or around the pool
feature(s) altogether. • Pool access steps (not ladders) must have – Not to wash toddlers and babies in the pool
their leading edges highlighted.
• The freeboard distance (the distance from the
− some steps may also benefit from
– Keep open wounds covered with
waterproof coverings.
top of the water surface to the top of the pool
handrails to assist access/egress.
surround) should not exceed 30cm, as this
affects the bathers’ exit from the pool and • If diving is prohibited, or where diving is
dangerous, prominently displayed pictorial “No
increases the risk of diving injuries. Where the
Diving” signs should be present around the pool.
freeboard is greater than the desired distance,
consider extra ‘grab’ points, steps or methods
which a swimmer in distress could hold on to.
• For villa and individual pools, the safety warnings
and health requirements should be provided
within the accommodation information pack.
Note: The multi-board signage and public health
information can be incorporated into one sign
or displayed as two separate signs, whichever is
appropriate for the property.
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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Pool supervision Management of pool bars Pool management • Toilets and showers should be close to the
and maintenance pool and the drainage from the showers
• If a lifeguard is not provided, they are off duty There should be a policy for the use of glassware should be discharged to waste.
or have temporarily left their post unmanned, around the pool, for example:
prominent and permanent signage should be • The pool should be managed in accordance • The toilet and shower facilities including
present around the pool to advise the customers • Drinks served around the pool side during the with the pool manufacturer’s instructions. In
the absence of a manual, there should be a
shower heads and shower trays should be
regularly cleaned and sanitised to encourage
that there is “No Lifeguard on Duty”. day should be served in non-glass containers
written policy on the management of the bathers to use them. A record of the cleaning
• If designated lifeguards are provided, they should • If the pool bar and surrounding area are used pool including cleaning and backwashing, schedule should be retained and made available
be able to swim confidently and should be trained at night for dining and glassware is used, water testing guidance for dosing, testing for inspection.
100 101
in lifesaving techniques, CPR and first aid. spillages and glass incidents should be cleared and maintenance, together with the actions
up immediately and the area checked and to take if the results are outside the desired • If the pool is closed at night, an adequate
• Where designated lifeguards are provided, if cleared for shards of glass. Consideration range. The information should be available
method of closure should be implemented
lifeguards and supervisors do not have visual and should be given to using high quality e.g. signage, ropes, security patrol etc.
to pool staff at all times for reference.
verbal contact with each other, walkie-talkies shatterproof non-glass items. to supplement the display of the pool’s
or similar devices should be provided.
Where a swim-up bar is a feature of the pool,
• Be realistic about how many people will use opening hours.
the pool and what the activities will be. The
• A telephone should be available close to the submerged bar stools should be clearly visible, pool needs to have the water capacity to
pool side for calling the emergency services. have their leading edges highlighted, and be cope with the volume of persons expected. Pool disinfection
in good condition.
Diving boards and platforms – Note: If considering building a bar to serve the
• Consider limiting the number of inflatables
and toys you allow in the pool. These can not Pool water cannot be sterile. Organisms will
separate or segregated areas pool area, it is suggested that it should be built only hide people underneath them, but they be present as the bathers and the surrounding
at least 5m away from the pool. also bring pollutants into the water. environment will always introduce microorganisms
to the water. The aim of good disinfection is to keep
Diving boards and platforms can be a source of
injuries and accidents if they are not managed or
• Staff responsible for the pool operation and
the pool water as safe as possible and avoid harmful
Poolside furniture maintenance should be appropriately trained
used correctly and therefore, where possible, diving agents being passed between the bathers. It is not
to perform their role. Training should include
boards and platforms should be removed from the simply a process of adding chemicals to the pool.
maintenance, cleaning, backwashing, water
pool(s). If diving boards and platforms are provided, There are many considerations to take into account
All poolside furniture such as sunbeds, loungers, testing, chemical dosing and actions to take
the following points should be considered: including choosing the correct chemicals, the dosing
tables, chairs, umbrellas and other ancillary items if the test results are outside the desired
method, the bathing load and the filtration.
• Where possible, diving board and platform should be maintained and regularly inspected to
ensure they are operating correctly and damaged
range. Details of the training given to staff
should be recorded and the records made Often the term ‘water balance’ is used, this is where
diving should be in a separate pool
items should be removed from use and replaced. available for inspection. there is the correct volume of water for the correct
• The diving area should be separated by number of bathers and the pH and disinfection
a clear buoyed line or similar markers • Regular visual checks should be made of the
of the pool is correct. pH is very important as the
pool and pool surround and any cracked,
• All boards and platforms should be of sound
broken or missing tiles should be repaired
effectiveness of the disinfection can be altered and
bather comfort can be an issue if the correct pH is
construction with steps, handrails and
or replaced.
guardrails fitted not maintained.

• A lifeguard should be positioned in this area • The pool plant room should be securely
• The pool water should be clear with the
locked at all times.
bottom of the pool visible at all times.
• Age and height restrictions for use should
• The pool plant room should be kept clean
be set and communicated to customers
and organised at all times. • The pool(s) must be regularly cleaned
(including the grease line).
• The forward diving area and pool depth will
depend on the height of the platform. As a • To reduce the risk of concentrated chemicals
• Regular visual checks of the pool should be
guide, if a 1m spring diving board is present coming into contact with each other, all
made throughout the day, pre and post opening
then the depth of the water below the diving concentrated chemicals in use, and in storage,
and whilst the pool is in use.
board should be 3.5m or more and this depth should be structurally segregated and stored in
must extend forward for 5m with a total accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
forward clearance distance of 9m. and locked away in the plant room at all times.

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

• The disinfectant levels of the pool(s) should • Pool disinfection and chemical dosing records Pool water clarity Pool outlet and inlet management
be checked regularly during the day (at least should be retained and be available for
twice per day) using good quality equipment. inspection. The records should be signed by If the bottom of the pool cannot be seen, Due to the potential of entrapment and serious
It is advisable that water tests for pH and the pool maintenance person and include a swimmer beneath the surface who gets into injury, all outlets and inlets should be covered.
chlorine are taken from the same point to details of the tests conducted, the date, the difficulty may not be noticed and may drown. They should be strong and secure and checked
maintain consistency with readings, as values time and the results attained. There should Regular visual checks should be made throughout on a daily basis for signs of damage or vandalism.
will differ if water samples are taken from be separate records for each pool clearly the day in order to continually assess the clarity
different locations. For outdoor pools or heavily stating the pool name. of the water. Outlet and inlet apertures (openings) should
used pools it is advisable to carry out a further not be greater than 8mm.
102 test at midday to establish whether the levels • It is preferable to utilise a method of slow Listed below are possible causes why the clarity 103
of disinfection and pH are satisfactory. It is continual addition of disinfection throughout of the pool water could be poor and the possible • Water velocity through outlets should not
the day and night, instead of a single high solutions to the problems. exceed 0.5m/s.
advisable to test for:
dosage which is expected to last until the
– pH (Phenol Red) next high dosage is applied e.g. where manual  Poor water quality, often due to heavy • The free open area of the grille should
use and inadequate treatment, making not exceed 30-40% of the overall size
dosing by hand in the evenings is being done.
– Free chlorine (DPD 1) the pool cloudy. of the grille.
This can be achieved by installing automatic
– Total chlorine (DPD 3). dosing chlorination machines.
 Pool operators should ensure that the water • There should be two outlets per suction line
and ideally they should be separated by a
Note: Total chlorine - Combined chlorine • A record of the swimming pool chemicals has been properly treated and prepared for
the expected number of users. distance of at least 2m and be located
= Free chlorine. used in the pool should be retained and the
preferably 3m from the side walls.
records be made available for inspection.
 Wind ripple, especially on unprotected
open-air pools. Water inlets should be in the correct position
Suggested values ensuring that water is circulated throughout
Coagulation/flocculation  Wind ripple can be reduced by planting well the whole pool and no ‘dead zones’ are created.
Free chlorine Between maintained plants or solid screening.
1-3mg/l (ppm) • They should not stand proud of the wall or floor.
In installations with sand filters there should be  Too many swimmers in the water.
an adequate use of flocculants. • They should not exceed 1.5-2m/s flow and
Combined chlorine Always less than  Maximum bather numbers should perhaps less where small children are present.
half the free chlorine • The flocculants should be added in a continuous be established.
• Each pool outlet should be free from
reading and never way via dosing pumps prior to the filtration
(never directly into the pool itself as this can  The effect of coloured tiles, which can significant suction.
above 1mg/l (ppm)
darken the bottom of the pool and would
create greater issues). The addition site should
be such that it allows thorough mixing, ideally make a body less obvious. • For spa pools and Jacuzzis, decorative water jets
pH Between 7.2-7.6 or massage structures, ensure that nozzles are
at least 10 seconds before filtration.  Ideally the tiles should be replaced otherwise in place, in good condition and are operating in
pool supervision should be encouraged. accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Temperature 29oC-30oC (84oF-86oF)
• Where the addition site to the water prior to
the filters is considered insufficient e.g. flow
rates preclude the 10 seconds contact time,
• Emergency shut off should be possible. The
• When sampling, check away from the inlets
flocculants should be added directly to the pool
emergency shut off button should be in an easily
accessible location. A documented procedure on
as these may give a high or false reading.
balance tank (when available) via the use of how to do this should be available for use.
The sample should be taken at least 30cm
dosing pumps.
under the surface of the water.

• Where readings are outside the desired range, • For the efficiency of the coagulation process,
the water pH should be maintained within the
corrective actions should be taken immediately
limits recommended by the manufacturer of
to restore the balance of the pool.
each specific flocculant.

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Pool filtration Salt pools Spa pools and jacuzzis in pool areas
Filtration facts – did you know?

Good pool filtration is essential to keep a pool For salt water pools, the pool safety guidance is the Spa pools and jacuzzis may have to be tested
clean and safe. Pools that become cloudy or full Filters work best when a biofilm is allowed same, however special consideration is required for more regularly and it may be necessary to empty
of particulates can potentially be dangerous as to build within the vessel. This will be effective pool disinfection. the spa pool on a daily basis, especially if there is
bathers, especially children, cannot be seen under in collecting small particles and some bacteria. heavy and continued use.
the surface. It is important that there is sufficient • A salt pool will need regular cleaning,
filtration to deal with the size of the pool, its Too much backwashing of the filter can
maintenance and treatment. • They should have warning notices clearly
displayed in close proximity to advise
104
bathing load and the pollution it brings. reduce the effectiveness. Backwashing should
take place when the pressure differential
• Water treatment should be managed in customers of the following: 105
accordance with the manufacturers’ instruction.
• Pool water recirculation and filtration
drops across the filter. This will often be It is important to note that salt does not destroy – Maximum time limits for use
should be operated in accordance with
indicated on the pressure gauge on the vessel. bacteria, so salt water pools may require more
the manufacturer’s instructions. – Advice against use by pregnant women
chemical treatment than a normal pool. and those with high blood pressure,
• There should be a documented policy Medium rate filters (10-25m/h) are suggested
• Water in a salt pool evaporates, but it leaves heart conditions etc.
on when and how the pool filters should for all commercial pools as they work better
be backwashed. behind the salt in the remaining water. If the – The minimum age for use and any
on fluctuating bathing loads. pool is topped up with more salt water, the requirements for parental supervision
• The filters should be technically inspected concentration of salt in the water will increase.
– The emergency action information which
at least once per year and preferably prior High rate filters (25-50m/h) do not handle very
to the seasonal opening of the property. small particles well and especially contaminants • The salt concentration within the pool should should include emergency shut off
be monitored and effectively managed. This
such as Cryptosporidium. – Temperature of the water, if heated.
• The filters should be backwashed regularly, may mean that the pool must be replenished
at least once per week or more frequently
Bag/cartridge filter devices tend to be effective
with fresh water (not salt water) to prevent the • Young children should not be permitted to use
if the bather load is high and in accordance concentration of salt within the water increasing the spa pool, hot tubs or Jacuzzis and older
with the manufacturer’s instructions. It is only in smaller pools. For large pools, several beyond acceptable levels. children should be supervised.
preferable to carry out the backwashing in-line filter vessels may be required.
operation at the end of the day. • There should be easy access and egress (wide,
small steps, small freeboard).
• Records of when backwashing is completed
• All inlet and outlet nozzles should be in place
should also be maintained.
Infinity pools to reduce entrapment risks.
• All backwash water from the swimming
• All grilles and covers should be secured in place.
pool filters should be discharged to waste
If you have an infinity pool, all the guidance is the
and not re-enter the pool.
same however special consideration is required for • The water line should be cleaned to remove any
grease build up.
• Empty and clean the primary and extra signage and possible restrictions, for example
secondary filters regularly. prohibiting the use of inflatables, as they can go
over the infinity edge. The infinity pool will need
• The chemical levels of the spa water should
be monitored and the results recorded in a pool
• Add a flocculent (coagulant) to the water regular cleaning and maintenance and for larger log book.
to enhance the effectiveness of filters. pools you may wish to consider placing a lifeguard
• The water should be re-circulated and or staff member at the edge, to ensure bathers do • The spa pools, hot tubs and jacuzzis should be
filtered continuously. not climb or fall over the infinity edge. capable of being shut off in an emergency.
Note: Further information regarding spa and
jacuzzis management can be found in section 5
General safety.

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY ADULT AT LEAST 3M CHILDREN'S
POOL POOL

Children’s pools Siting and location Separation by distance and barrier Separation by barrier
of children’s pools Where a children’s pool is separate to the adult pool Where a children’s pool is located in or directly
Where there are young bathers, special but located less than 3m away, a barrier should be connected to (forms part of) the adult pool, a
considerations will need to be made. This is difficult installed to prevent easy access to the adult pool/ barrier should separateATthe children’s
LEAST 3M pool area from
To minimise the chance of access by children to
where there is perhaps a small pool associated with deep water. the adult/deep water area.
deep water, children’s pools should be located at,
a single property, but where there are significant near or in the vicinity of, the shallow end of any Any barrier should not be easily climbable (over The barrier should extend sufficiently far around
numbers of children, extra safeguards are required. adult pool. In addition, the following design or through) so typically requires vertical bars to a the children’s pool area so that a minimum of
Children’s pools should be provided with the features of the adult pool should be present: height of 80cm continuously from the ground with 3m distance separates any point of exit from the

BARRIER
following ‘child friendly’ features: ADULT ADULT CHILDREN'S
106 no gaps greater thanAT LEAST 3M
10cm. CHILDREN'S children’s pool area from the nearest point of the 107
1. The shallow end of the adult pool should be POOL POOL
• Shallow depth (up to 60cm approximately) of the same or similar depth to the maximum
POOL POOL
The barrier should extend sufficiently far around the
adult pool.
and the depths should be clearly marked depth of the children’s pool. children’s pool so that a minimum of 3m distance Any barrier should not be easily climbable (over or
• Gentle gradients of the pool floor 2. The adult pool should slope gently (maximum
separates any point of exit from the children’s pool
from the nearest point of the adult pool.
through) so typically requires vertical bars which
extend continuously from the pool floor to a height
(1:15 maximum) 1:15 gradient) away to deeper water.
of 80cm above the water level with no gaps greater
• Free from suction and entrapment hazards. Where these conditions can be met, there is no than 10cm.
All inlets and outlets should be correctly need to separate children’s pools from adult pools
covered and no chance of entrapment by distance or barriers. However, space, historical
• Grilles and covers secured in place design or other factors may mean that these
conditions cannot be met. AT LEAST 3M
AT LEAST 3M
• Easy access and egress (wide, small steps,
Therefore, in order of preference, the following
small freeboard)
guidelines for siting and protection from access
• Space around the pool to allow parents/ to deep water should be followed.

BARRIER
guardians to easily supervise ADULT CHILDREN'S ADULT CHILDREN'S
POOL POOL
• Signage to state that “Children Must Separation by distance POOL POOL
Be Supervised”. A minimum distance of 3m should separate the
It is suggested that children’s swimming pools have children’s pool from the adult (deep water) pool.
a water treatment plant that is independent of that BARRIER
of the adults’ swimming pools.

Reference
AT LEAST
When preparing this pool safety 3M the following documents were considered:
guidance,
− EN 15288:2019. Swimming pools for public use
− EN 13451 (all parts). Swimming pool equipment
ADULT AT LEAST 3M CHILDREN'S
− EN 1069-2:2107 - Water slides
POOL POOL ADULT CHILDREN'S
− ENPOOL
17232:2020 - Water play equipment
POOL and features
− EN 1176 Playground Equipment
− EN 1177 - Impact Attenuating Surfacing
− Guidelines for Safe Recreational
BARRIER Water Environments Volume 2: Swimming Pools and Similar Environments
− ISRM: The Use of Play Equipment and Water Features in Swimming Pools

AT LEAST 3M
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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Flumes and water slides • There should be a segregated or separate Zero & minimal depth water • Ground level water sprays should be flush with
the floor surface.
landing/splashdown area provided for each play areas
• Flumes and water slides that are over 2m slide or flume. • Any water spray equipment positioned to spray
in height should be supervised when the above ground level should be brightly coloured
Additional things to consider include: Zero and minimal depth water play areas such as to clearly highlight its presence.
pool is open. spray parks and splash pads are perceived to be
1. Are access steps flat, non-slip and
• Flumes and water slides should have pictorial with handrails? safer than other recreational water areas as they • Water treatment should be the same as for
information signs clearly displayed at the slide have minimal or zero depth of water, however they swimming pools, ensuring that a suitable level of
access and top to advise customers of the following: 2. Is the access platform guarded? can still potentially present safety issues and should free chlorine is available to provide the correct
3. Does the end of the flume/water slide be managed in accordance with the manufacturer’s level of disinfection.
108 – Minimum age restrictions or minimum 109
height restrictions should be displayed overlap the pool edge by at least 30cm? instruction.
• Where water is misted or fogged, a potable
water source should be used and suitable
at the slide or flume access 4. Is the discharge point directly into the water
or preferably no more than 20cm above?
• The play surface should be impact absorbent
controls implemented to prevent the
– The correct riding position to reduce impact injuries should users fall.
proliferation of Legionella bacteria – please
– The water depth of the landing area 5. Are the materials used for the flume/water slide
suitable e.g. GRP with gel coat?
• The play surface should slope back to the see section 15 for Legionella guidance.
drainage grids and water should not pond on
– Advice to customers to move out of the
landing area immediately upon splashdown 6. Are corners/edges and joints sealed? the play surface. • Where slides are provided for play, they should
descend into a run-out length instead of
– There must be a clear method of keeping 7. Are exit steps located correctly by the • Drainage grids should be flush with the floor dropping onto the play surface.
flume/water slide so bathers do not collide? surface and any gaps in drainage grids design


riders apart e.g. advising not to ride until the
current rider has cleared the landing area. 8. Can you control the splash down area?
should be less than 8mm. • Customer safety information signage should
be provided to inform them of the rules of use
This could be actioned by the use of a 9. Is there clear safety signage which indicates • All play equipment fitted in the water play of the play facility. Signage should include:
traffic light system. age/height restrictions and conditions of use? areas should be installed and maintained in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. − Opening and closing times of the play
facility
• The area must be free from slip and trip hazards.
− Emergency action information
• Play equipment should not present trip hazards.
− Children should be supervised at all time
− Children should wear suitable swimwear
− Babies and toddlers are not permitted to use
the facility naked and should wear specially
designed swimming nappies
− Not to use the facility if you have been ill
in the last 48 hours.

Waterparks

If slides, flumes, zero or minimal depth water play,

or other aquatic areas are provided, in addition
to the information contained in the pool safety
section, accommodation providers are advised to
refer to section 12 Waterparks as the information
provided may also apply to the management of
these facilities.

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Swim-up pools Water safety Guidelines for faecal and/or In the event that the faecal stool is loose or
unformed there is a possibility of Cryptosporidium
− Any steps leading into the water should vomit accidents in the pool contamination then the following action must
A swim-up pool is a pool accessed directly from a be highlighted at their leading edge be taken:
guest room via a terrace or patio. Where a room has − Where handrails are provided on any It is important to ensure that any faecal or vomit
direct access to any body of water via its terrace or access steps, they should be secured at accident is identified and action taken quickly to • Clear the pool of bathers immediately
patio, appropriate protective measures should be
installed to prevent unintended access by children.
the top and bottom of the handrail prevent the spread of infection. The first precaution • Thoroughly clean the pool (vacuum and sweep)
− Free chlorine concentrations and pH levels is to ensure that any accident is quickly identified and pool surrounds
should be controlled as described earlier and the pool cleared immediately.
110
Gates in this section of the guide. • Clean strainers and coarse filters
111
Below are some housekeeping good practices
The provision of a gate that forms part of the patio that can help minimise the risk of infection being • Backwash the filter
door frame could be installed. The gate does not
have to be a permanent fixture and can be slotted
Water safety information spread as a result of faecal/vomit accidents in • Chlorinate to 20mg/l (ppm) at pH 7.2-7.5 for
Customers should be advised in the use the pool. eight hours
into the door frame when the room is booked by a
family.
of the safety gate so that young children are
protected from accessing the water without
The accommodation management should appoint • Using optimised coagulation, filter for six
a person to take responsibility for implementing turnover cycles (which may mean closing the
− The gate should be at least 1.1m height parental supervision. the procedures shown below, specifically to pool for a day). This assumes good hydraulics
− Several designs may be used but one that encourage all staff to maintain vigilance of and filters that have been correctly installed
Signage or information in the room should
does not compromise the design and the pool while in use. and maintained
be provided to advise customers:
aesthetics of accommodation or
create an obtrusive barrier is Plexiglas − Children must be supervised at all times Faecal accident response
• Backwash the filter and allow to settle overnight

or Perspex type glass − The emergency action information

In the event of a release of a solid stool the
• Return the chlorine level to the normal
operating level. Check alkaline and pH levels.
− If the Plexiglas option is not considered − To shower before entering the pool following action must be taken: If they are satisfactory reopen the pool
suitable, a gate may be supplied which is − Whether there is a lifeguard on duty
constructed of railings with gaps of less or not • Clear the pool of bathers immediately • Record details of the incident itself and
than 10cm subsequent action taken together with
− Any railings should be vertical in design,
− Not to use the pool if you have been ill • The stool should be retrieved quickly with
the chlorine and pH levels in the Faecal
in the last 48 hours. a net or scoop
as horizontal railings present a ladder effect Accident Record.
and would allow a child to climb over. − Swimwear must be worn • The stool should be disposed of in a sanitary
Such design should not present any danger − Toddlers and babies are not permitted to manner and the scoop should be disinfected Vomit accident response
from trapping swim naked and should wear specifically
designed swimming nappies.
• Ensure the chlorine level is between 2 and If a bather has a vomit accident in the swimming
− All surfaces must be free from sharp edges 3mg/l (ppm) and that the pH is 7.2-7.5 pool the following action should be taken:
Housekeeping staff should be advised to ensure
− The gate must be fitted with child proof
latches/locks which prevents opening. that safety features are in place and fully • Record details of the incident itself and
• Clear the pool of bathers immediately to
the chlorine land pH levels in the faecal allow the pollution to disperse and any
To prevent the accidental opening of the functioning prior to customers’ initial arrival into
accident record infective particles to be neutralised by the
gate by a child of less than five years the a room with direct access to water (via a terrace
unlocking system should necessitate a or patio). • Keep the pool closed for a minimum of residual disinfectant
one hour.
minimum force of 20N • Ensure the chlorine level is between 2 and
− The latch must be fitted on the side of 3ppm (mg/l) and ensure that the pH is 7.2-7.5
the gate away from the room (nearest the
water) to prevent a child easily reaching the • Keep the pool closed for a minimum of one hour
mechanism. The latch should also be fitted • Record details of the incident itself and
at least 10cm below the top of the gate the chlorine land pH levels in the Vomit
− Gates must also feature a self-locking Accident Record.
mechanism.

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 FOUR: POOL SAFETY FOUR: POOL SAFETY

Swimming pool log sheet Notes

Water pumps Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Pump start time

Pump stopped time

Hours running

Pump in use

Strainers changed

Filters In Out In Out In Out In Out In Out In Out In Out

Inlet and 1
outlet
112 pressures 2 113
3

Backwash 1
(mins)
2

Circulation flow m3/

hr or l/hr

Test results Fr Co pH Fr Co pH Fr Co pH Fr Co pH Fr Co pH Fr Co pH Fr Co pH

Analysis of: M Di M Di M Di M Di M Di M Di M Di

Monochloramine 1

Dichloramine 2

Total alkalinity

Calcium hardness

Total dissolved hardness

Temperature

Langelier index

Chemical Coagulant
additions
Hypochlorite

O2/acid

Others

Others

Clarity 10 = perfect
0 = very poor

Number of bathers

Fresh water dilution (l)

HEALTH & SAFETY: TECHNICAL GUIDE © 2023 ABTA - The Travel Association