New Guidance for Spa Pools

The HSE has produced new guidance for spa pools

Spa pools and similar are a recognised source of diseases caused by infectious agents, including the organism that causes legionnaires’ disease, primarily Legionella pneumpohila. There have been several reported of outbreaks linked to spa pools in leisure centres, hotels, holiday homes, on cruise ships and on even on display at events.

The new guidance for spa pools is primarily for those who manage or operate spa-pool systems. It explains how to manage and control the risks from legionella and other infectious agents. It will also help service suppliers, designers, manufacturers, importers, suppliers and installers of spa-pool systems to meet their legal responsibilities. As well as guidance on operating and maintaining commercial-type systems, there is specific advice included on domestic spa pools or hot tubs that are used as part of a business activity (such as holiday park rental units, hotel bedrooms with a dedicated spa, and systems that are on display or are at exhibitions).

The  new guidance for spa pools includes advice on effective ways to manage and control spa-pool systems safely through:

• design, commissioning, operation and maintenance
• testing and monitoring spa-pool water quality
• quality and frequency of inspections

A copy of the new guidance can be downloaded by following this link.