As we continue with stay at home requirements here in Ontario and we look forward to our next steps, our pools and spas are sitting idle, awaiting our swimmers to return once we can re-open. However, just because our pools are not being used right now, this doesn't mean that we should turn our filters off and stop our routine chemical tests and treatments. An idle aquatics facility could lead to other costly issues down the road.
This document based on the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and documented by the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (Formerly NSPF) states that COVID-19 and other infectious diseases cannot survive in a properly treated pool or spa. It is our job to make sure our aquatics facilities are maintained and are ready to open once we are able to. The good news is, with no bather load, the amount of chemicals needed to maintain the health of our pools and spas is much less than usual, but please ensure that you are doing your regular tests and adding the appropriate amount of chemicals if you don't have automated controllers. (If you are interested in learning more about controllers, contact me.) As I mentioned in our previous blog, Dr. Roy Vore also was recently a guests on the Pool Pro podcast talks about viruses and how to minimize transmission, including COVI-19. If you haven't listened to it, I highly recommend you do.
Another issue with having our facilities closed for a long period of time is being aware of and knowing how to deal with biofilm, which can lead to Legionella and other microbiological issues that could cause harm to our bathers. If you are not aware of what Biofilm is, take some time to read this article, The Secret Life of Biofilm, from Aqua Magazine. The CDC guidelines for closing Hot Tubs and Spas to protect from biofilm, Legionella and other bacteria from growing in your facility can be found here.
If you have any questions or concerns about how to maintain your aquatic facility during the COVID-19 closures or how to re-open your facility safely, contact me anytime at scottbowron@clearaquatics.ca or call me at 226-448-4020.
Stay safe everyone.
Scott
