Understanding Spa Pool Risks: Legionella, Pseudomonas, and More

Spa pools are wonderful for relaxation and therapy, but they can also pose health risks if not properly maintained. This blog post delves into the various microbiological and other hazards associated with spa pools. Using the advice of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), we’ll explore these risks and what you can do about them.

Microbiological hazards in spa pools

Spa pools can be breeding grounds for various microorganisms, due to the warm, turbulent water and the high organic load from bathers [2, 3]. Understanding these risks is critical for preventing infections and keeping your spa pool safe. The risks include:

Legionella species

Legionella pneumophila is the primary cause of Legionnaires’ disease, a serious lung infection contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets. The bacteria thrive in warm water (20-45 °C), making spa pools a potential source of infection [2]. Those with a heightened risk include smokers, heavy drinkers, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions [14].

Coliforms and Escherichia coli

The presence of E. coli indicates faecal contamination, either from contaminated skin or direct introduction. Coliforms suggest external contamination. Their presence also confirms that the water treatment has not controlled this contamination [41].

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

This bacterium is linked to outbreaks of folliculitis (skin rash), occurring around 48 hours after immersion in contaminated water. Children are more susceptible [15].

Mycobacterium avium

Respiratory diseases have been associated with this and other mycobacteria in spa pools and hot tubs [78].

Other potential infections

Other infections associated with spa pools include amoebal, parasitic and gastrointestinal infections, furunculosis (from Staphylococcus aureus), and Molluscum contagiosum (a viral skin infection) [78].

Other hazards associated with spa pools

Besides microbiological risks, several other hazards can occur, which you should also be aware of.

Chemical hazards

Chemicals used to treat the water, such as chlorine, need careful handling. Risks include overdosing and mixing incompatible chemicals which can be dangerous. You must consider COSHH guidelines [79].

Temperature hazards

Prolonged immersion in hot water can cause delayed shock and may pose risks to pregnant women and those with cardiovascular problems. Those taking medication for cardiovascular and nervous system conditions, and those with disabilities should seek medical advice before using a spa pool [79].

Electrical hazards

Electrical equipment needs to comply with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Wiring must also comply with standards like BS 7671 [80].

Slips and trips

Water around the spa pool can be a slip hazard and obstructions around it can cause a trip hazard. You should carry out an assessment of this risk [80].

Confined spaces

Working in confined spaces, such as around the balance tank, poses a risk. An assessment should be done under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 [81].

Manual handling

Injuries can occur when lifting heavy items, such as chemical drums. A manual handling assessment must be completed [82].

Entrapment

There is a risk of suction entanglement in spa pool inlets and outlets. This must be risk assessed with the implementation of control measures to minimise this risk [82].

How to mitigate these risks

Proper Water Treatment: Maintain proper pH levels and disinfectant concentrations [23].
Regular Cleaning: Routinely clean the spa pool and its components [28, 83].
Water Replacement: Change the water regularly to prevent the build-up of contaminants [18, 35].
Risk Assessments: Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify and address potential hazards [84, 85].
User Education: Educate users about hygiene and safe use [73].

Final thoughts

Understanding the various hazards associated with spa pools is crucial for maintaining a safe environment. By consistently applying best practices and ensuring safety is paramount, you can minimise risks. Remember to visit thepoolcleaners.co.uk for more information on pool and spa safety.

FAQs

What is Legionnaires’ disease and how is it contracted in spa pools?

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria. It’s contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets, such as those produced by the air jets of spa pools [2, 14].

Why is Pseudomonas aeruginosa a concern in spa pools?

Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause folliculitis (skin rash), particularly in children, and is a sign of water treatment failure [15].

What should I do about the chemical hazards associated with spa pools?

Store chemicals properly in a secure area, and use appropriate PPE. Always follow COSHH regulations and avoid mixing incompatible chemicals [65, 79].

What steps can be taken to mitigate the risk of slips and trips?