Recreational Water Guide

HEALTH AND SAFETY
GUIDELINES FOR
RECREATIONAL WATER
PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT

FOOD SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT HEALTH SECTOR
ENVIRONMENT HEALTH SECTION
HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES
FOR RECREATIONAL WATER
______________________________________________________________________________________
PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT

FOOD SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT HEALTH SECTOR
ENVIRONMENT HEALTH SECTION
CONTENTS PAGE
Field and Scope of Application 2
Definitions 2
Operation Permit Issued by the Ministry of Public Health 3
Health Risks Related to Recreational Water Usage 3
Construction Requirements and Devices 4
Health Requirements for the Facility 5
Chemical and Microbial Risk Management at the Recreational Water Facility 6
Air Quality Management at the Recreational Facility 14
Safety and Life-Saving Equipment 15
Educating the Public and Signboards 16
Facility’s Workers Requirements 17
Routine Operations at the Facility 18
Procedures in case of Accidental Microbial Contamination 19
Health and Safety Considerations and Guidelines for Swimming Pools in the Educational 19
Institutions
Health and Safety Guidelines when using the Public Beaches to Swim 25
Swimming Pool Closure 26
Appendices 26
References 34
1. Field and Scope of Application
Water activities can confer health benefits for the users, including physical exercise and relaxation.
However, adverse health effects may also occur. These guidelines for recreational water and similar
guidelines provide an effective tool to manage these risks.
This document explains the health requirements, the safety and operation procedures for the
recreational water used for recreational purposes, including swimming pools, hot pools, whirlpools,
and all sorts of natural and unnatural recreational water as well as public beaches designated for
swimming.
These procedures shall be applied to the recreational water at clubs, schools, residential institutions
and compounds, recreational rest houses, gardens, parks, hotels, water parks, public beaches
designated for swimming. The exception shall be for private residences for one family used for
recreational purposes by the occupants and their guests.
2. Definitions
Swimming pool
This means any unnatural water pool that is built, installed, adjusted, or improved to swim, wade,
dive, or hot, recreational, educational pools.
Recreational water
Water used to swim, practice exercises, or amuse, including swimming pools and accessories thereof
such as swimming pools for children, spas, hot pools, whirlpools, and all sorts of natural and unnatural
recreational water as well as public beaches designated for swimming.
Disinfectants
Chemical materials are added to the recreational water to kill microbes and used in a percentage
determined by the technical instructions that are issued by the Ministry of Public Health.
Disinfectant remnant
The disinfectant concentration that should be in the recreational water during the operation and
Heavy water users, as per the technical instructions determined by the Ministry of Public Health.
pH value
Value of acidosis or alkalosis (or Hydrogen ion concentration) in the recreational water during the
operation and the Heavy water users, as per the technical instructions determined by the Ministry of
Public Health.
Water turnover rate

Time taken by the pool water to be circulated through pump/filtration system.
Balance tank
The place to which the chemical materials are added to be distributed to the pool water in a balanced
way.
2 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

Backwashing
Process of pumping water backward through the filtration system to be cleaned of the dirt
accumulated in the pore areas that may lead to weakening its filtration capacity.
Lifeguard
The person who is authorized, trained, qualified, and appointed by the recreational facility
management to observe, help, and rescue everyone in need of assistance when he/she is swimming
in the pool.
Standard operating procedures (SOP)

Instructions that will help the operators to execute complex routine operations, explained in detail.
The standard operating procedures are intended to achieve efficiency, output quality, and
performance, as well as reduce the miscommunication and the failure to comply with the industry
regulations.
3. Operating Permit Issued by the Ministry of Public Health

The entity in charge of managing a recreational water facility shall get a permit from the Ministry of
Public Health before performing business. Such operating permit shall be renewed regularly as per
the regulation issued by the Ministry of Public Health.
The recreational water facility’s owner shall request the operating permit from the Ministry of Public
Health at least two months before business commencement. Thus, the Ministry of Public Health
shall inspect the facility and issue the operating permit after having ensured that the requirements
are satisfied in the facility.
4. Health Risks Related to Recreational Water Usage

The users of recreational waters and similar recreational places may be at risk because of several
potential uses for water, including the potential risk of injuries or water and airborne diseases. Such
diseases may be transmitted through many microbes like viruses, bacteria, and protozoans. These
risks may include the following:
• Death because of drowning or movement restriction due to Hair getting stuck.
• Neck and spine injuries because of diving in shallow water or because the swimmers bump into
each other in the pool.
• Injuries because of falling, slipping, tripping, etc.
• Drinking the polluted water or contact with polluted water. For example, when swimming in the
pool and spa, and when the polluted water contacts with any open wounds in the body.
• Breathing in the aerosols containing Legionella, which may be exposed when the hot pools are
used or when there are certain internal aesthetic water fittings such as fountains and so on.
• Pneumoconiosis because of access to polluted water to the lungs accidently after being almost
drowned.
• Skin infections in the feet such as verrucae, athlete’s foot, and other skin diseases.
• Potential Trigger for asthma patients because of the over disinfection by-products in air.
• Eye redness, irritation, and ear infections.
HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 3

The application of procedures and guidelines set out herein shall actively contribute to limit the
exposure to such risks and protect the health.
See Table No. 11: good practices in management and operation: main issues related to health
protection.
5. Construction Requirements and Devices

1. The building shall be compatible with the country requirement for such facilities concerning
construction and fitting out (Qatar Construction Specifications)
2. The areas around the swimming pool must be made of materials that are non-slippery or covered
with rubber materials, and easy to clean.
3. Light tiles or ceramics that are easy to clean and water seal shall be used to slab the swimming
pool.
4. The swimming pool shall have staircases or means of egress that are composed of staircase,
ladder, or slope, which are made of anti-sliding and easy-to-clean materials.
5. Filters shall be provided in sufficient number with absorptive capacity to purify the pool water.
The filtration is required to be automatic to remove all impurities and suspended particles that
may access normally to the water.
6. Skimmers and tools required to remove the dust, tree leaves, thin layers of oil, and all suspended
particles floating on the water shall be provided.
7. Filters shall be provided to catch hair, lightweight dirt, and to prevent heavy dirt from being
accumulated in the system, thereby shutting down pumps, tubes, or filters.
8. Disinfection and chemical materials addition equipment, which work in an automatic, safe,
controlled way, shall be provided in sufficient number with absorptive capacity to purify and
adjust the disinfectant remnant level, as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Public Health, as
well as ensuring that the remaining levels of the other chemical indicators in the pool water will
be balanced.
9. The chemical materials required for the pool water, whether indoor or outdoor, such as the
disinfectants, coagulants, and materials used to adjust the alkalinity/acidity of water, shall be
provided.
10. Depth signs shall be provided, as the case may be, to refer to the water depth and different
depth levels, whether on the surface or the swimming pool wall at the least and the greatest
depth and at the slant refraction. They must be visible and easy to read. In the case of steps in
the pool, a color, which is darker than the color of the remaining steps, shall be used for the step
edge.
11. The pool building shall have sufficient lighting.
12. Exhust fan shall be provided in the sanitary utilities to remove the offensive odors.
13. Equipment designated to clean the pool water continuously shall be provided.
14. Land drains used to move water out at the pool bottom, to discharge the accumulated dirt, and
make the full drainage for the pool easier shall be provided for maintenance and cleaning.
15. The recreational wastewater shall be discharged to the public sewerage systems as per the
applicable technical rules or in another healthy way in accordance with the competent authority’s
instructions.
16. Adequate entrance and exit for the swimming pool, sufficient parking areas designated to service

the pool users shall be provided. Such areas and places shall have sufficient lighting.
6. Health Requirements for the Facility

• The used recreational water source shall have come from the public water system or any
authorized source, so the water will be free of microbes. In the case of other sources such as
groundwater or seawater, the water shall be purified and treated before usage in the pools.
• Signboards shall be put as explained in the part of signboards at the pool entrance and inside
the pool to raise the users’ awareness of the health requirements, which must be applied before
swimming.
• The usage of disinfection materials and permitted distribution method shall be taken into
account. The disinfection system shall be automatic.
• No persons with infections, ulcers, or infectious diseases that present a risk to health or no
women or female trainers during menstruation shall be allowed to use the swimming pools.
• The operator shall be under an obligation to carry out all physical, chemical, and microbiological
tests as per the instructions below, submit the results to the regulatory authorities on request
(see the part of chemical and microbial risk management in water).
• Disinfectants and cleaning materials shall be provided in the health utilities related to the
swimming pool and such utilities shall be kept clean.
• Adequate materials and methods shall be used to remove the algae that thrive on the swimming
pool edges, bottom, and walls.
• No walls and bottoms in the swimming pool shall have sharp edges, furrows, or open separators.
The bottoms and walls shall be anti-slipping, easy to clean, non-absorbent, and light-colored.
• The number of users shall be less than the pool capacity (maximum number of pool users), which
is the measurement of persons in the swimming pool. For new pools, this capacity shall be
estimated in the design phase. Many factors define the maximum density of the users, including:
• The area of water – area available for the swimmers to move safely.
• The depth of water – the deeper the water is, the bigger area will be required by the users to
swim with satisfaction.
• The sort of swimming pool and the activity.
The following table describes the required area per swimmer depending on the depth of water
therein.
An example of maximum bathing loads
Water depth Max bathing load

<1.0 m 1 bather per 2.2 m2
1.0–1.5 m 1 bather per 2.7 m2
>1.5 m 1 bather per 4.0 m2
• The swimming pools designated for adults shall be decoupled from the pools designated for
children for their safety and cross-contamination prevention.
• There shall be a water heating system if it is used during the winter.
• No children shall be allowed to use the Jacuzzi. Adequate safety forms shall be used to verify the
absence of chronic patients and pregnant women.

• Proper ventilation shall be provided following the Qatar Construction Standards and Specifications
in the indoor pools and in a way that maintains thermal comfort and does not permit the air
pollutants or the disinfection by-products to accumulate inside. Moreover, the air quality criteria
should be considered depending on the criteria set out by the responsible authority at the
Ministry of Public Health (See the part of air quality management).
• If there are sandy areas in the swimming pools, such as the kids’ zone, the separation of such
areas from the swimming areas shall be considered and ensured that there is a buffer zone to
remove and clean effectively the sand from the bathers’ bodies before entering the swimming
pools.
• All users shall be under an obligation to wear suitable swimsuits to ensure that there are no
effects on water safety in the swimming pools.
• A drinkable water supply shall be provided for the users.
Showers and Sinks Designated for Legs

Showers and sinks designated for legs shall be provided per 25m of the pool circumference. Post a
signage requiring the users to get cleaned up before and after the pool usage.
Swimming Pool Utilities and Dressing Rooms

A complete health unit adequate for the Carrying capacity of the swimming pool size and area shall
be provided. Such units shall have a dressing room, wardrobes, showers for bathing, and sinks with
water, liquid soap, and hand tissue paper, as well as separate bathrooms for women and men. You
can see table No. 5 in the part of the appendices.
Its location shall be determined so that it can be used properly before entering the swimming pool
and after exiting from it. All users shall be encouraged to use the bathrooms before the shower to
limit unintentional urinating or defecating in the swimming pool.
If there are children that have no training on bathroom usage in the swimming pool, the protective
swimsuits, which prevent such pollutants from accessing the pool water, should be worn.
Those children should be permitted to use small pools designated for them and shall not be
permitted to access the pools designated for adults.
7. Chemical and Microbial Risk Management at the Recreational Water

Facility
It is important, at the indoor and outdoor utilities, to manage the microbial and chemical risks in the
swimming Pools, and similar recreational water environments. This is not only important to protect
the employees’ and users’ health and safety, but also to comfort them and Prevent the adverse
effects on the building components and equipment. Good management of such risks is the most
effective procedure to provide users with a safe and healthy environment. Hence, some easy health
procedures, like observing some of the pool water indicators such as turbidity rate, pH value of the
water, disinfectant remnant rate, and microbial sample results, as well as complying with obvious
operation policies and procedures and training thereon. Recreational water utilities face many
challenges because of such risks, which can be addressed by a set of the following steps:
• Treatment (to get rid of the particles, pollutants, and pathogenic micro-organisms) through the
filtration and the disinfection (to get rid of or kill and deactivate the infectious micro-organisms).
• Persistence of water turnover system to ensure that the water will be mixed well, the disinfectants
will be distributed across the pool, and the polluted water will be removed.
• The periodic addition of fresh water to the pool (to reduce the concentration of the materials,

which are not easy to be removed from water through the treatment technique.
• Regular cleaning (to remove the biological membranes from the surface, the precipitates from
the swimming pool bottom, and the sorbent particles on the filter surface).
• Taking shower before the swimming pool usage and complying with the swimming pool usage
laws and rules.
• Good ventilation in the indoor swimming pools (to get rid of the air pollutants and the volatile
by-products of disinfection).
• Maintaining and inspecting the ventilation and air conditioning systems at the facility, as well as
sustaining a reasonable level of the indoor air quality levels and parameters as per the regulation
that is issued by the competent authority in the Ministry of Public Health.
Pool Water Treatments
I: Filtration
The primary function of filtration, as a stage in the pool water treatment, is to remove turbidity to
reach water appropriate clarity and purity; as water, clarity is a key factor in ensuring the swimmer’s
safety.
As, Poor underwater vision is a causative factor in injuries and drownings, because lack of water
clarity seriously impedes swimmers vision if they are in distress, and it also impedes the vision of any
drowning person lying at the bottom of the pool. Also, the water suspended particles and materials
may lead to the formation of a cover around the pathogenic microorganisms, preventing the
disinfectant from reaching and eliminating them, so, the disinfection process is negatively affected.
Besides, the turbidity may lead to disinfectants interact with some components of these organic
particles, forming other less effective substances than the active and essential compounds for
disinfection, thus, the ability to eliminate pathogens is affected, as filtering is the critical step to
remove pathogens and micro-organisms.
• Therefore, pool operators shall remove these particles using coagulants, and carrying out
filtration using filters designated for this purpose. They are also important for removing bacteria
and some other types of protozoa resisting chemical disinfection remove or find translation.
• The filter’s backwashing is a process of great importance; filters are cleaned as a result of their
blockage due to the adhesion of plankton and pollutant materials to the filter or filter components.
This is done by reversing the water flow direction, disposing of filter materials, and passing water
to the waste. This operation shall be performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as
needed, and when there is a difference in pressure on the filter sides.
• Good circulation of water in the swimming pool ensures that all water in the entire pool is
adequately filtered by the filters.
• The treated water shall reach all parts of the pool, and the polluted water shall be removed,
especially from the areas most used and most polluted by the users, and it is recommended that
it shall be taken from the surface (where the pollution is greater) 75-80% of the water and the rest
shall be taken from the swimming pool bottom.
Dilution
Dilution is the process of reducing the amount of solute in a solvent. This is done by mixing more
solvents, such as water for pool water solution; to ensure that all parts of the solution are equal. For
a swimming pool, this means adding more fresh water to the pool water, which in turn reduces
chemicals concentration such as cyanuric acid or other chemicals that harm health. In many cases,
there is an increase of some chemical’s concentration in the pool water in a way that is difficult to
remove through treatment and filtration, so the water shall be replaced by adding fresh water to

dilute the chemicals that cannot be removed. So, pool operators shall add fresh water to the pool
as a regular procedure of the water treatment system. As a rule, adding fresh water to disinfected
pools shall be at least 30 liters per swimmer.
II: Disinfection
Disinfection is part of the treatment process in which pathogenic microorganisms are inhibited and
neutralized by the use of chemicals or physical treatment (such as the use of ultraviolet rays) so that
the water does not present any significant risk of infection. Pool water circulation is also part of its
disinfection during the complete treatment of the pool water by the disinfectant remnant (chlorine
or bromine), which partly eliminates the action of substances added to the water by the swimmers.
Some disinfectants, such as ozone and ultraviolet rays, kill or inactivate microorganisms while the
water is undergoing treatment, but there is no permanent or “remnant” disinfectant effect that
reaches the pool and continues to act on the microorganisms. As well as using these types of
disinfection, a chlorine or bromine type disinfectant shall also be added to provide continuous
disinfection. Available disinfectant which is active in water is referred to as “remnant” or, in the case
of chlorine, “free” to distinguish it from bound chlorine (which is not a disinfectant). In the case of
bromine, as the common form is also an disinfectant, there is no need to distinguish between the
two, so “total” bromine is measured.
In disinfection, the following shall be observed:
• The way disinfectants are introduced into the pool water and its effectiveness. Injecting a
disinfectant dose may take place before or after the filtration; as each disinfectant has its
requirements and dosages that differ from others.
• Ensure the automatic disinfectant addition, as electronic sensors are continuously and
permanently available to monitor the disinfectant residue and the pH or alkalinity of the water,
and to constantly adjust the disinfectant levels to maintain the correct levels. These levels shall
be checked regularly by manual testing of the water samples.
• The disinfectant addition pumps shall be designed to self-shut off if the water circulation system
stops or fails to operate (although the automatic disinfectant addition system shall not be
stopped) to ensure that disinfectant chemicals are not interrupted or dispersed.
When choosing a disinfectant, the following shall be observed:

1. Safety and compatibility with a water source, type and size of swimming pool, ability to stay in
the water, and the maximum bather load (largest number of pool-users)
2. The pool management team abilities and skills
3. Effective and rapid inactivation of pathogenic microorganisms
4. Continuous oxidation ability to help control all pollutants during pool use
5. The disinfectant should have wide range between the effective concentrations for disinfection
and the dangerous concentrations causing harmful effects on human health
6. It provides quick and easy measuring for disinfectants concentration into the pool water
7. The ability to automatically measure the disinfectant concentration to allow automatic control
over the continuous recording of the measured values.

The following parameters are important in the proper selection of a UV system:
• The type of microorganisms to be destroyed
• The flow rate of water to be treated
• Lamp quality (low or medium pressure)
• UV dose
• Water temperature
• Disinfection rate.
Important considerations when using UV lamps and ozone for disinfection

• The main health issue in using ozone as a swimming pool disinfectant is the leakage of ozone
into the surrounding atmosphere from the ozone generators and the connected tank, which
need to be properly ventilated to prevent the accumulation of ozone. It is important for the
treatment process to include the addition of a deozonation (removal of ozone) step, to prevent
its migration into the treated water. As, ozone is a very severe respiratory irritant, so it is important
to control ozone concentrations around the pool and facilities.
• The effectiveness of UV disinfection is affected by particles and the growth of the biofilms around
them. Therefore, UV lamps shall be cleaned periodically to remove any pollutants, biofilms, or
other materials interfering with the UV emission and its ability to affect disinfection.
• Ozone does not leave a trace of remnant disinfectant such as UV, therefore, it shall be used in
conjunction with chlorine compounds or other disinfectants that remain in the water after the
treatment process
• If ozone is used as an auxiliary disinfectant, the necessary actions shall be taken to monitor its
level in the air, so that its concentration in the air shall not exceed 0.10 mg / m3, to protect the
bathers and employees working in the pool facilities
• To ensure the UV effectiveness, water shall be treated initially to remove turbidity due to particles
preventing the penetration of UV rays or absorbing their energy.
Shock dosing
• The use of a shock or sudden dose of disinfectant is part of the strategies for effective pool water
management; as it is a preventive measure to correct a certain problem in a recreational water
pool. This procedure, however, is used to control a variety of pathogens and microorganisms as
well as to destroy some organic pollutants and chloramine compounds. Also, destroying
chloramines requires high levels of free chlorine, at least ten times the level of bound chlorine.
• As a preventive measure, this strategy is used where the chlorine level is raised to 10 mg/liter for
a period of 1 to 4 hours. This procedure shall be done if any fecal contamination occurs, and
sometimes it requires raising the free chlorine level to 20 mg/liter for 8 hours, and of course, the
swimming pool shall be free from any users throughout this process
• It shall be noted that trying to correct the pool water treatment deficiencies by resorting directly
to this procedure is considered a bad practice and will result in other problems.

DBP and its control
They are compounds associated with the basic disinfection compounds, and the formation of these
compounds can be controlled through:
• Minimizing the introduction of precursors by selecting the water source
• Doing good hygiene practices (for example; taking shower before entering the pool)
• The paramount importance of its removal through good management of water treatment
methods
• Addition of freshwater (i.e. dilution of chemicals which cannot be removed)
• Good ventilation to control the percentage that escapes into the surrounding air.
• Exposure shall be minimized (the time the user spends in the water)
• Ensuring that chlorine levels do not build up in the stored hypochlorite disinfectants.
Microbial risk management in a recreational water facility

The above mentioned strategies are sufficient to control microbial risks in recreational waters. The
following are some measures for preventing microbial exposure in hot pools.
Measures to prevent users from exposure to legionella and pseudomonas bacteria in hot
pools
• Water pools operators shall take into account the protection of users’ health by implementing
basic management measures, including filtration, and maintaining appropriate proportions of
disinfectant remnant, on an ongoing basis, in hot water pools (see Table No. (1)). Natural spa
components, hot pool equipment, including pipes associated with the pool as well as air
conditioning units, and adequate ventilation shall also be considered.
• Ensuring water circulation in the hot pool (see Table No. (9)
• Programing “breaks” during hot pool operation, to reduce overuse and to allow levels of
disinfectants to return to the levels required for disinfection
• Frequently checking and cleaning of all filters, including backwash filters (for example, at least
daily, and when there is a pressure drop
• Swimming pool cleaning, hot pool inspections (ex: daily)
• Replacing at least half of the water in every hot pool (ex: daily)
• Empty the pool water, and perform a thorough cleaning of all surfaces and all pipes (ex: weakly)
• Maintenance and cleaning of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, especially those
serving or are located in hot pools (for example, from weekly to monthly)
• Sand filter inspection (for example, quarterly)
• Ensuring that personnel are appropriately qualified and competent to operate the recreational
water facility
• If there are aqueous aesthetic installations such as fountainsor similar to that, they shall be
cleaned periodically, by emptying the water and adding water containing disinfactant (for
example using solution of at least 5 mg of hypochlorite per liter) to remove any microbial growth..

• Pool operators shall encourage bathers to shower before entering the water. As, this will remove
pollutants such as sweat, cosmetics, and organic materials which may act as a source of nutrients
for the growth of bacteria and other organisms
• The number of pool users/usage intensity and the time spent in hot pools shall be controlled
• Individuals at risk (such as those with chronic lung disease) shall be warned about the risks of
exposure to these bacteria
• Hot pools facility operators shall undertake a program to verify control measures, including:
1. Check and adjust remnant disinfectant levels and temperature (several times a day, according
to schedules in the Appendix section
2. Inspection and maintenance of cleaning operations (daily to weekly)
3. Conducting microbial tests when doubting pathological conditions due to bacteria exposure
in the facility, with levels <1/100 ml.
II: Addition of flocculants

Pool operators shall use these materials to enhance the removal of dissolved, colloidal, or suspended
materials by excreting them as solids, then, they are collected through the coagulation process.
These materials are usually important to remove the eggs and cystic organisms.
Some important operational indicators in the recreational water facility to the safety and
health of its visitors
1. The disinfectant proportion in the water

For a traditional public or semi-public swimming pool with a good filtration and circulation system,
experience has shown that adequate routine disinfection shall be achieved with a free chlorine level
of at least 1 mg/liter throughout the pool (the values Shown in Table No. (1) shall be adhered to the
level of the remnant disinfectants according to the types of disinfectants, as well as the type of water
pool if it is Indoor or outdoor). A low concentration of free chlorine (0.5 mg / l) may be sufficient
when chlorine is used with ozone or UV rays in disinfection (acceptance of this value requires the
approval of the relevant department in the Ministry of Health after assessing the pool risks)
• There is a need for higher concentrations (see Table No. (1)) for hot pools, due to the high
number of users in a small space, in addition to the higher water temperatures
• The concentrations in public and semi-public pools shall not exceed the levels mentioned in
Table No. (1) for indoor and outdoor pools,
• Remnant disinfectant concentrations shall be checked by taking samples from the pool before it
is opened and during the opening period (ideally during the presence of the high bather load)
according to what has been mentioned in the Table for the recommended limit for the frequency
of pool routine tests in the Appendixes section (see Table No. (3)).
2. Water pH (pH or alkalinity of water)
The pH value of pool water (and similar environments) shall be controlled to ensure efficient
disinfection and coagulation, to avoid damage to pool components, and to ensure user comfort.
The recommended levels shall be maintained as mentioned in Table No. (2), according to the
disinfectant type, whether it is chlorine or bromine-based.

3. Clarity of Pool Water
High turbidity in the water is a safety concern because it reduces visibility through the water, so the
water in the pool must be clear and not cloudy, to facilitate the visibility of hazards under the water
surface. As a minimum to judge the clarity of the water, it should be possible to see a young child at
the bottom (pool floor) of the pool from the lifeguard position. The turbidity guideline recommends
that the upper limit for turbidity is 0.5 NTU.
4. Water Temperature
The water temperature varies in the activities designated for recreational water according to the
type of pool and users. Therefore, it is difficult to determine a guideline value (see Table No. (8)) in
the appendices as it shows indicative values for the recommended temperature range according to
the type of activity in the swimming pool. In the case of hot swimming pools, it is not allowed to
exceed 40 ° C as the water temperature. The range with water temperatures can vary greatly from
one individual to another. Users should not participate in recreational activities that result in a
significant increase or decrease in the internal body temperature. In general, pregnant women
should avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, users with medical problems, and young children.
Prolonged immersion in hot pools or other pools with high or low temperatures should be avoided
and handled with caution.
5. Water Turnover Rate
The appropriate water turnover rate in the swimming pool depends on the bathing load (see Table
(9) for guidance). However, there are some types of pools for which the turnover rate cannot be
derived from the bathing load - such as diving pools and water pools with a depth of more than 2
meters. The turnover rate is the time it takes a volume equivalent to the total volume of the pool
water to pass through the filters and treatment plant and then returns to the pool again. The turnover
rate is calculated based on the depth and must be proportional to the type of water pool and the
activity in which it is exercised and the total volume of water. Some equations can be used as a guide
to calculate the appropriate water turnover rate for each pool. These should be used at the pool
designing stage.
Monitoring and Control of Recreational Facilities
• There should be procedures (clear and written) established in advance by managers to act on
the monitoring findings, including how to act when any unexpected results emerge.
• Operators should know what they need to do on their own or ensure how appropriate actions
that are taken by other trained person. Management should review data systems and tests
regularly to ensure that operators have taken appropriate corrective actions.
Sampling and Analysis
• Guidelines for routine sampling frequency In public and semi-public pools, disinfectant
concentrations should be checked by sampling the swimming pool water before it opens and
during the opening period (ideally during the maximum number of users).
The frequency of sampling is shown in Table (3). In addition to routine sampling, samples must also
be taken from the pools in the following circumstances:
• Before using the pool for the first time;
• Before it is reused, after it has been closed for repairing or cleaning;
• If there are difficulties in the water treatment system, that can pose any possible harmful effects
on the users health.
• The frequency of sampling depends on the nature and use of the swimming pool (see Table (4)).
• All tests shall be performed immediately after the sample is taken. Samples should be taken at

a depth of 5-30 cm. It is good practice to include the sampling point in areas of the pool where
the disinfectant content is lowest (due to the water turnover system). Occasional samples should
also be taken from other parts of the pool and the water turnover system.
• The sampling frequency should be increased if the operational indicators (such as turbidity, pH,
and remnant disinfectant concentration) are not maintained within the specified ranges.
Determining the number of samples depends mainly on the size of the pool and its complexity,
and should include several points representative of the pool water quality and the areas likely to
have problems.
Sampling Sites
• The most suitable site for taking a single sample is where the water velocity in the pool is low, far
from any inlets. Depending on the size of the pool, it may be advisable to take several samples
from multiple sites.
• The sampling containers shall be of a material that will not affect the quality of the sample, either
microbial or chemically. Generally, glass containers are of good quality to meet these requirements.
Plastic containers can be used provided they do not interact with microorganisms or chemicals
in the water.
• In the case of microbial testing, the bottle should be sterile and contain an agent that eliminates
the presence of disinfectants used in pool water, such as sodium thiosulfate which is used in
disinfectants based on chlorine and bromine. If another disinfectant is used, the laboratory
should be informed of that substance.
Microbial Monitoring of Swimming Pool Water
• Pool water in public and semi-public pools should be monitored at intervals appropriate for
microbial indicators. These tests do not guarantee microbial safety but rather provide information
to judge the effectiveness of measures taken (see Table 3).
• When these operational guideline limits are exceeded, pool operators must check turbidity,
disinfectant residual levels, and pH levels, and then re-analyze again, and in case the limits are
exceeded, the pool must be closed, the problem investigated, and appropriate corrective action
taken.
Other operational Indicators
There are several important indicators for operational purposes. The recommended range in Table
(2) should be maintained, and these include the following:
• Alkalinity: Alkalinity is a measure of the number of dissolved salts in water. Excess alkalinity leads
to resistance to large changes in the pH of the water and the proportions of disinfectant required
for disinfection.
• Water hardness: It is a useful indicator for monitoring to avoid damage and corrosion to the
components and surfaces of the pool.
• Total Dissolved Solids: Total Dissolved Solids (TDS).
• The cyanuric acid concentration in the case of outdoor water pools.
Water Safety Plan
There are many risks to health as a result of using water. These risks may arise in water distribution
systems, swimming pools, or hot pools. Therefore, an assessment of these risks of a microbiological
nature (legonella or pseudomonas) or chemical (such as lead, pesticides, etc.) must be conducted
routinely through a plan for water safety within recreational facilities where there are multiple uses
of water. The implementation of the water management system through this plan ensures the

management and monitoring of water quality from the point of entry into the system or equipment
to the point of use by consumers.
Water Pool Safety Plan
The facility operator must have a safety plan for the water pool and the recreational facility, which
consists of a description of the system, its maintenance and monitoring procedures, NOP, a set of
procedures related to specific incidents, emergency evacuation procedures, and general emergency
plan procedures (for matters not covered by specific accidents).
Hygiene before Swimming
Showering before swimming will help remove traces of sweat, urine, faeces, materials, cosmetics,
used oils, and other water pollutants. Thus, pool water is cleaner, easier to disinfect, and requires
fewer chemicals to treat, so facility operators must urge users to shower before using the pool.
8. Air Quality Management at the Recreational Facility

It is important to manage air quality in swimming pools and similar recreational water environments.
This is important not only for employees and users’ health but also for their comfort and avoiding
negative impacts on facility components and equipment.
• Air quality in indoor swimming facilities is important for many reasons, including:
A. Employees and user health: The number of by-products or secondary products that are
produced from the water treatment processes of the pool, and airborne particles, should be
controlled. Two points that represent a major health concern are the legionella bacteria and
secondary disinfection products, specifically chloramines.
B. The aerosols from the pool water and the jet chlorine smell lead to bronchial irritation,
especially for asthmatics.
C. Poorly ventilated pools lead to skin and respiratory diseases.
D. The comfort of employees and users is affected in the event of inadequate temperature,
humidity, and air in the swimming pool.
E. Impact on building materials: air temperature, the concentration of airborne particles, and
the number of by-products need to be controlled to avoid an “aggressive environment” that
may harm the building components.
Measures to Control Air Quality
1. The areas that include natural spas (thermal waters) and hot water pools should be well ventilated.
This is to reduce the chance of exposure to disinfection by-products, and air quality should be
maintained to reduce overall exposure to these chemicals since inhalation is the dominant route
of exposure to these compounds. Whereas, the concentrations of these disinfection by-products
decrease rapidly with distance from the water and this has implications for the design of the
ventilation system, which includes the mixing and dilution processes (i.e. with fresh air).
Accordingly, the flow of air must be ensured through a mechanical or natural system, so that
appropriate rates of ventilation (at least 12 liters of air / s / m2 of water surface area),
2. The air temperature in the pool hall should not exceed the temperature of the water by one
degree Celsius and not be less than one degree Celsius. Air temperatures should be over 30
degrees Celsius.
3. The humidity must be maintained at 60% (not less than 50%) and not more than 70% throughout
the pool hall area.

4. The pool hall area (water plus the wet areas around it) should be ventilated at a rate of> 12 liters
of ventilation air per second per square meter of pool hall area, and where recreation pools are
included as well as other forms of water, consideration should be given to increasing the rates of
ventilation around them.
5. A minimum of 12 liters per second of fresh air must be provided to each pool hall occupants
(including swimmers, employees, and spectators).
6. An additional 10% should be provided as an additional percentage to the highest usage rate
when necessary (for example when there is the highest frequency of users or if high levels of
pollutants are detected in the vicinity of the pool).
7. When the ventilation system can use recycled air, at least 30% of the air content should be
supplied from a new source (fresh air) wherever possible.
8. Adhere to the ventilation rates recommended by the concerned department in the Ministry of
Public Health, as well as the regular inspection procedures for the ventilation and cooling
systems, and to carry out the required maintenance for these systems such as air handling units,
air ducts, and diffusers,
9. Providing MERV-certified efficient air filters, and paying attention to washing, changing, and
maintaining these filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
9. Safety and Life-Saving Equipment

1. The number of lifeguards must be proportional to the number of pool users, and that the number
and conditions required for lifeguards be consistent with the instructions of the competent
authority. Table No. (6) mainly represents the numbers required of lifeguards.
2. Points for entry and exit to the pool are determined to be fully controlled and closed and
forbidden to be used at the end of working hours.
3. Children under the age of 14 are prohibited from swimming except with the accompaniment of
an adult from their parents or a school supervisor, with the necessity to wear a life jacket for
children’s swimming and wear a swim cap for those with long hair and provide life-buoy ring and
life jackets for use when necessary.
4. Swimming is prohibited for people who are under the influence of alcohol
5. Banning the use of glass around the pool
6. The necessity to provide backup flashlights that work in the event of a power outage.
Lifeguard and First Aid Provider
There must always be a person trained and licensed by the competent authorities in the country on
lifeguarding, first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The lifeguard has some main duties
and responsibilities as follows:
• Supervising the pool area, while closely monitoring the pool and users,
• Prevent injuries by minimizing or eliminating risky situations and intervening to prevent unsafe
behaviors,
• Exercising appropriate control and enforcing all rules and regulations of the utility,
• Foresee problems and prevent accidents,
• Identify emergencies quickly and respond effectively,

• First aid management or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and inform other lifeguards and
utility employees when further assistance or equipment is required,
• Communicate with swimming pool users and colleagues.
Life-saving equipment (such as a life jacket, life-buoy ring, etc.) must always be in good condition
and ready, and it must be kept in its specified site and used only for its intended purpose.
First Aid Equipment
A first aid kit should be kept and readily available in the designated site of the swimming pool, and
a spine stabilizer board must be kept in good condition and ready in the pool. The spine board
should only be used under the supervision of a qualified medical technician.
First Aid Room
A swimming pool whose surface area exceeds 370 square meters must have an accessible aid room
equipped for emergency care according to the medical requirements set by the competent authority
in the Ministry of Public Health.
Eyewashes should be available to anyone who deals with chemicals.
Do not allow the presence and use of electrical devices near the swimming pool.
Flags and temporary barriers should be located at an appropriate distance from the edge of the
pool to be used when necessary.
Lifeguard chairs should be elevated and placed in appropriate places around the pool.
Accident and Complaints Records
A record must be provided that documents any accidents, complaints, or injuries that occur to users
while they are using the swimming pool (falling or slipping, eye or skin sensitivity or redness,
suffocation, drowning, etc.) and the action that was taken in this regard. And for review by the
concerned employee, so that these files are kept for the last two years of the pool operation.
10. Educating the Public and Signboards

Education
Education could encourage the users of the swimming pool and hot tub to adopt safer behaviors,
which benefit them as well as other users. Issues such as pre-swim shower should include conditions
that do not allow the use of the swimming pool, and how to identify potential risks when you do not
use a pool or similar environment correctly. Facility operators could provide this information,
including messages about not swimming when you have diarrhea, pre-swim shower, or those
immune patients should take extra precautions or not swim in areas with greater risk of contamination.
The safety of users will be improved if the potential risks are identified in the utility, and users who
have been taught before entering the Recreational facilities. Education can also be attempted by
delivering safety publications to users before entering or to those responsible for organized group
activities and displaying posters in reception areas and changing rooms.
Utility operators at the recreational water facility and spas, water exercise lessons, and diving clubs
must play an important role in ensuring the safety of users of these places through public education
and providing appropriate and targeted information to all categories of users to ensure their safety,
health, during the use of such facilities.
Signboards
Information can be transferred by placing appropriate signs in a visible location. This information
should provide concise information and clear messages, which can be used to inform people of risks

and safe behaviors, and also to promote education messages for safe use of the facility, warning
signs, in particular, it should be simple to understand and display a clear message. Banners can
convey the need for awareness such as risk, for example, maybe a risk to health (paralysis), water
shortage, such as no diving, no depth signs, or no alcohol. Additional attention is needed when
designing the applicable signs for tourist groups with different languages and cultures that the
swimming pool users understand.
Location
All rules for using a swimming pool shall be provided in Arabic and English, legible and clear on the
signboards, and are placed in at least one clear location within the swimming pool area and shall
also be published within the swimming pool area.
Content: the rules published in the signboard should include the following:
Persons infected are not allowed to use the swimming pool.
Do not allow food, drink, gum, tobacco, tobacco products, or alcoholic drinks to be brought into the
swimming pool.
The importance of bathing before and after use of the swimming pool.
Do not run or rough play.
Diving or snorkeling is only permitted in designated diving areas.
The swimming pool may not be used for people with a skin disease or infectious disease that can be
transmitted by using the swimming pool. Women or trainers are also not allowed to use the pool
during menstruation.
Information on persons with disabilities, if it is permitted by the pool laws,
Emergency contact information shall be provided.
11. Facility’s Workers Requirements

Workers should obtain a periodic health certificate that proves free from infectious diseases and
prevents all those who have symptoms of an infectious or skin disease from working.
Lifeguards
Each lifeguard shall have a valid certificate as specified by the competent regulatory authority.
Operating Technician
The person in charge of operating the swimming pool shall be qualified to perform the swimming
pool water tests and operate the water treatment equipment through training and experience. He
should also be qualified to control, add, and use the chemicals that the pool needs. He shall undergo
some training courses as determined by the Competent Authority of the Ministry of Public Health.

12. Routine Operations at the Facility
Cleaning the Swimming Pool
The swimming pool and its surroundings should be cleaned daily during no-use times.
Toilets/Showers/Changing Rooms
These utilities are cleaned and disinfected daily and, if necessary, general closets are checked and
cleaned. All installations and equipment shall be kept in good condition and operable.
Filters Backwashing
Filters are periodically washed until a suitable flow rate is available under the manufacturer’s
recommendations or if the flow rate declined below the required minimum flow rate. Reading of the
pressure indicator on both sides of the filter should be guided. Any leaks need to be prevented.
Water Tests
The swimming pool’s water tests for chemical and microbiological indicators are conducted
according to the schedules provided by the Ministry of Public Health and in certified labs for this
purpose, provide that being conducted by a trained person and providing the necessary digital
equipment for these tests.
Records
The measurements are recorded on special forms prepared for this purpose and kept in records for
reviewing during the inspection, provided that the records of the last two years for these indicators
shall be preserved.
Addition of Chemicals
The disinfectant and any chemicals are added using the balance tank or any other automatic method
to ensure a balanced and equal distribution in the pool water, provided that the calibration and
maintenance of these devices are carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions, with the
necessary to provide documents that explain the nature and quality of all chemicals used in the pool
water and explain in detail how they are used, safely circulated, and prepared. A designated area
should be provided for the processing of the chemicals that the pool water needed.
Personal Protection Equipment
The swimming pool owner shall provide all known personal protection tools for that purpose to
those operating the swimming pool or adding chemicals to the pool water.
Chemicals and its Storage
• Authorized chemicals are used for disinfection and chemical balance of the swimming pools
water.
• a well-lit and ventilated separate warehouse, with a temperature of no more than 25 degrees
Celsius, is required to store chemicals used for disinfection or other purposes with applicable
technical requirements.
• There shall be sufficient corridors within the warehouse.
• All firefighting precautions shall be taken within the warehouse and per Civil Defense requirements.
• In the case of chemical storage, a label shall be placed on its package specifying the name of the
substance, chemical synthesis, commercial name, trading methods, storage method, health and
environmental risks, methods of prevention, and the ID number of the substance.

• Storage shall be on shelves and saperated depending on the nature and type of packages to be
stored, with signs indicating the properties of the stored substance, the specification of the
proper storage methods, and taking the required procedures to prevent leaks.
• substances are stored in their original containers. If any substance is transferred from its original
container, the original compound data should be placed on the new package.
Standard Operating Procedures and Policies for the Pool
Written procedures are provided including all step-by-step instructions to help operators perform
routine operations and standard operating procedures. All policies of the operation and use of the
facility are maintained as a policy for dealing with fecal contamination, security and safety policy,
and others.
13. Procedures in case of Accidental Microbial Contamination

Approaches to Health Protection under Accidental Contamination Conditions, such as Fecal,
Blood, or Vomiting Contamination.
• The only approach to maintaining public health protection under fecal or vomit conditions is to
prevent the use of the swimming pool and immediately taking users out until contaminants are
eliminated,
• Educate parents/caregivers for young children and other water users about healthy swimming
behavior,
• Persons with gastroenteritis should not use public or semi-public swimming pools and hot tubs
during illness or for at least a week after their illness, to avoid the transmission of the disease to
other users in the swimming pool or hot tub.
• If the contamination is solid, it should be immediately removed by using a tool intended for this
purpose and then disinfected.
• Disinfect the swimming pool by keeping the disinfectant levels within the maximum recommended
range or using chlorine shock and coagulant (if appropriate),
• Water filtration by running it six times through filters
• Wash filters again.
There shall be a clear policy for these procedures and employees shall be trained on it.
14. Health and Safety Considerations and Guidelines for Swimming Pools
in the Educational Institutions
This section of the document provides guidance on safe practice in swimming and water safety,
whether at the school swimming pool, the water swimming pool, or the public swimming pool
during school visits. It aims to maintain the health and safety of all participants

Safety procedures and general conditions at the school swimming pool shall be added to the
above-mentioned establishment conditions at the beginning of this document
• It should be away from any source of air pollution and noise, such as being near to the main
street, gas stations or factories,
• The pool should be surrounded by a fence that is at least 1.2 meters high, should be self-closing,
with no handle or footholds that allows the young to climb. The distances between the fence
openings should not exceed 8cm, to ensure that this safety barrier does not constitute a risk to
child safety,
• If there are staircases above the ground or stairs leading to the swimming pool, they shall be
secured to prevent access when the swimming pool is not in use,
• The swimming pool shall have separate suitable changing rooms for males and females, separate
toilets with hot and cold water, liquid soap and disposable paper towels,
• Availability of CPR kits (including infant and child CPR),
• Encourage children or users not to swallow the pool water,
• Child caregiver responsibility during Swimming Lesson:
à watch children closely and stay with them,
à Provide appropriately trained and prepared lifeguards,
à instruct children to stay away from water when there is no supervision,
à Public education/ awareness that drowning can occur quickly and quietly,
• pool operators shall take all necessary measures to protect the students’ safety from the risk of
being constraint or withdrawal by pressure difference due to proper design and the presence of
covers on water outlets or drains.
• To protect students from sunburn, sunstroke, skin cancer, students should be urged to use
sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and reduce direct exposure to the sun, with the necessity of
choosing the appropriate swimming times if the swimming pool is outdoor.
• Swimming is not allowed for those who have a skin infection or infectious diseases that are
transported by water, and in the case of some wounds in the body, all injuries should be covered
with water pads.
• Table No. (7) is guided by knowing the recommended percentage of the maximum number of
students with the number of swimming teachers.
Responsibility for school with swimming pool or swimming lessons outside the building
The school has many responsibilities if there is a swimming pool, either by giving swimming lessons
to its students or by renting the swimming pool for other schools. These procedures are as follows:
• Complete risk assessments, with a copy of which is available to the officer-in-charge, adding
emergency contact numbers in the school’s swimming folder (with a centrally located copy with
the head teacher),
• Ensure that all employees accompanying students to school swimming have read and understood
the normal operating procedures (NOP) and the Emergency Action Plan (EAP), see Table No.
(10),
• Ensure that the intended employees for school swimming are qualified and licensed and comply
with the protection policy of their school,
• Ensure that they have obtained the training related to school swimming,

• Understand the nature of school swimming qualifications that allow them to do it and ensure
that the employees are confident and qualified to play their role in providing school swimming
lessons.
• Maintain a central record of employees qualifications and training they obtained in a central
database,
• Comply with the implementation of the water quality management set out in this document at
the school swimming pool,
• In case of renting the swimming pool to a school or other users, a copy of the swimming pool
NOP, as well as EAP, should be provided and ensure that the employees of the rented school
have read and understood these plans with a signature to demonstrate their understanding of
their responsibilities while using the swimming pool. These documents need to be kept in the
school swimming folder so that they are reviewed by the competent official from the Ministry of
Public Health,
• Provide all safety, aid, and life tools requirements,
• Ensure that all updated medical and health information relevant to students are kept within the
school swimming folder,
• School swimming directors shall attend and pass a training course, which is subsequently
determined by the competent department of the Ministry of Public Health.
Responsibility of the teacher in charge of the school swimming program
• Prepare a swimming folder within the school,
• Visit the swimming pool before starting the swimming program to understand all aspects and
requirements of the relevant NOP/EAP, assess risk, and plan the program with the specialized
swimming teacher,
• Conduct potential risks assessment of pool usage, provided that being signed by all relevant
employees (including the headteacher); This should include written information on students with
medical conditions and/or additional needs and should be shared with the specialized swimming
teacher before the school safety program for swimming starts. This information needs to be
updated if necessary.
• Complete and share the relevant documents with recreation water facilities services providers.
The accompanying school employees during swimming activity
• Schools’ employees generally shall be responsible for any activity in which children are involved
and cannot assign this responsibility to anyone else. This applies to all water-related recreational
activities in school curricular and extracurricular activities organized by the school during and
after school hours, both inside and outside school buildings.
• School employees shall:
à Give a Clear role and responsability,
à Be confident when they are at the swimming poolside,
à Communicate effectively and appropriately with each other and with the swimming officers
on safety issues,
à Wear appropriate clothes,
à Ensure that children are properly supervised at the changing rooms,

à Ensure that children are under control at all times,
à Count students before, during, and after the courses, provided that this shall be recorded in
the swimming pool entry records,
à Enforce the requirements of the operating plan and emergency plan procedures and be
aware of what to do within the area of the swimming pool in the event of an emergency, as
well as to make sure that children know what to do in the event of an emergency evacuation.
à Explaining the rules of the swimming pool before the swimming lesson.
à The necessity of urging students to take a shower before and after entering the pool, and
drying their bodies well to protect themselves from various diseases.
à Warning students not to swallow the swimming pool water.
• Staying by the swimming pool to provide the required support role for the school swimming
lesson.
• Take responsibility for reporting on the progress of school swimming (through continuous
monitoring and guiding of concerned staff). Identify students who are unlikely to meet the
minimum requirements for swimming according to the school curriculum.
• To be aware of the additional needs of any medical conditions of the students they teach to put
the correct measures/precautions in place with the guidance of the specialist-swimming teacher.
The role of a teacher specializing in swimming lessons and water games,
He needs to:
• Understand his role in school swimming.
• Work in partnership with the teacher in charge of school swimming, water safety, and other
school personnel accompanying children during swimming.
• Ensure the execution of an appropriate and adequate risk assessment for each group participating
in swimming activities.
• Be aware of the additional needs and medical conditions of children in their classes, and assessing
these risks in the context of the swimming environment.
• Ensure the safety of children’s behavior while being in the swimming pool.
• Enable children to have fun in and near water.
• Prepare, plan, teach the school swimming and appropriate water safety lessons according to the
the age and ability of the students in high quality and partnership with the teacher in charge.
• Ensure the appropriate numbers of fully qualified lifeguards for the swimming pool.
• Understand their role and responsibility in emergency conditions (understanding NOP and EAP)
• Have the ability to organize many other staff members when needed.
• Liaise with lifeguards and swimming pool center staff regarding the school swimming course.
Normal Operating Procedure (NOP)
School swimming and water safety may be the first experience in a swimming pool for some children.
It is important to know and understand the swimming pool rules, pool planning, and the potential
risks of this new environment. All school personnel shall have read and signed to demonstrate their

understanding of the normal operating procedures (NOP) of the pool that is used for school
swimming, to ensure that they understand their role and responsibilities during normal operations
to maintain safety. (For more details, See Table No. (10)).
Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
This plan details roles and responsibilities in emergency conditions. An emergency action plan is
prepared by the school that has a swimming pool. In the case that the swimming pool is rented to
another school, the responsibility for keeping the swimming pool in a safe condition is based on
what is contracted in a clear and documented manner between the two parties. All employees shall
receive introductory training for the work program to ensure that they understand their role and
responsibilities during an emergency. Provided that the school shall record the training sessions,
and signed by the person providing the training and kept in the swimming pool related records.
Schools with their water facilities will need to develop or review their risk assessment as a basis for
putting an emergency action plan for their pool. (For more details, See Table No. (10)).
• Safety signs, including emergency arrangements, shall be visible in the relevant areas of the
pool, and students shall be aware of them.
• School staff need to ensure that students whose first language is not English, and those with
poor eyesight or with reading difficulties, understand all safety signs
• All classrooms shall conduct training for emergency plans to evacuate the water pool and call for
help during the first lesson of each semester. This helps the staff and students to understand and
be familiar with emergency signs and procedures and know how to respond to them.
• Thermal blankets should be available near emergency exits. Consideration should be given to
the following:
à Students leaving the swimming pool during an emergency with bare feet.
à Students with special needs or physical disabilities.
• Exit doors and signs, firefighting equipment, and alarm points should be checked regularly to
ensure they are functional and accessible.
• All fire doors should be operable without key assistance at all times the swimming pool is in use
and it shall be examined at the beginning of each lesson,
• Safety equipment such as rescue tools, ropes, first aid tools (such as emergency thermal blankets)
and emergency alarms must be fit for purpose and adequate in quantity. It also needs to be
checked regularly, and a record is kept. Equipment should be readily available and accessible
when needed without causing additional risks to the pool users.
• All swimming pools should be equipped with alarm systems or an alternative backup in the
event of an accident to ensure that support can be called up quickly.
• If the swimming pool has an alarm system, there must be a landline phone near to the pool and
it shall be checked before each lesson. Access to emergency services must be guaranteed at all
times in which the swimming pool is used. Mobile phones are only suitable for providing extra
support, and they must be checked when arriving at the pool and before the lesson.
• All swimming pools need to have clear procedures for dealing with students with physical
disabilities if the school policy permits.
• If a spine stabilizer board/special recovery stretcher is present, personnel should receive training
in its use.

Swimming Pool Rules
Swimming pool rules may differ from one swimming pool to another according to design, depth,
and activity. Swimming pool rules shall be presented and explained to all students before the first
lesson in school swimming. Students should be reminded at the beginning of each semester, and
ideally, this should coincide with the emergency procedures when tested (i.e., alarms). Here are
examples of standard pool rules. It is not an exhaustive list:
• Students should not enter the swimming pool unless a lifeguard is present
• Students should not leave the swimming pool without permission, nor return without informing
the responsible person.
• Students should not come near or enter the water until it is instructed to do so
• Students should walk, not run around the swimming pool.
• Students shall respond promptly to all instructions.
• All those at the poolside shall understand and respond appropriately to the pool’s emergency
procedures,
• Reporting any unacceptable and unsafe behavior
• No food should be served at the poolside.
• Screaming is not allowed
• Jumping or diving is not permitted unless it is instructed to do so.
• Jewelry is not allowed.
• Shoes are not allowed on the side of the pool.
• Swimming caps should be worn and other pool hygiene procedures shall be followed.
• Any illness must be reported
• The medication that may be needed must be provided at the poolside for those whose health
condition requires it.
Swimmers with disabilities
• The right of any child with any disability to get his right should be guaranteed like other students.
Policies, procedures, or physical changes in the environment (reasonable adjustments) may be
required to ensure that children with disabilities can learn to swim. However, there remains a
warning that justifiable measures to protect an individual’s life, health, and safety overrides the
point mentioned before. Therefore, schools may have to consider the following:
• Access to the swimming pool (i.e. ramps, cranes, and changing facilities)
• Increase the ratio of teacher: students
• The existence of an assistant in the water
• Emergency evacuations of students with disabilities and/or spinal injuries.

15. Health and Safety Guidelines when using the Public Beaches to Swim
Users and/or officials of public beaches designated for swimming shall adhere to the following:
• The importance of monitoring the state of meteorology before going to the beaches to avoid
exposure to strong winds and high waves.
• The necessity of adherence to swimming in areas designated for swimming, as well as avoid
swimming near places of water currents, adhere to the instructions and guidelines for beach
swimming, and not to ignore the rules and requirements of safe swimming.
• The owners of tourist establishments, chalets, hotels, resorts, and clubs, which have beaches
prepared for swimming, shall provide the security and safety requirements and signboards
necessary for swimming, as determined by the competent department in coordination with the
competent authorities. It is also necessary to set up observation platforms, information panels,
and directional flags.
• Avoid Swimming on any beach where the user thinks it might be unclean or there is an
unacceptable change in the color or smell of the water.
• Avoid swimming on beaches affected by algae growth or red tides, and avoid sitting in the wind
to prevent exposure to any algal subject that dried up on the beach. in case of contact, bathe to
remove any residual material.
• Body, clothes and equipment should be washed and dried after any contact with algae.
• Avoid swimming in areas where there are concentrations of cyanobacteria or turbidity and cloudy
water, and avoid direct contact with water, swallowing it, or immersing the head with it.
• Shower and dry the body well after swimming at the beach.
• Animals are not allowed to reach beaches designated for swimming, and the responsible
authority shall be committed to removing any animal waste, and increasing public awareness of
the importance of maintaining the cleanness of the beach.
• Using glass on the beach is forbidden
• Be careful while choosing swimming areas. Avoid swimming in any area that has access to sanitary
drainage, liquid waste, or other pollutants.
• If any health symptoms appear after swimming in areas with mossy growths or others, please
seek medical advice quickly.
Some of the necessary steps to protect from exposure to the sun when you go to the beaches:
• Limit your exposure as much as possible in the middle of the day, when the sun’s ultraviolet rays
are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• Use some applications to plan your outdoor activities, such as those that allow you to know the
value of the UV index to prevent your excessive radiation exposure.
• Take precautions against overexposure and seek shade.
• Apply sunscreen every two hours.
• Wear protective clothing and equipment to protect your eyes, ears, face, and neck.
• Wear sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection and that greatly reduce eye
damage from exposure to the sun.
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that provides extra protection from the sun.

16. Swimming Pool Closure
The swimming pool will be closed completely or partially in the following cases:
The presence of fecal bacterial contamination in microbiological water analysis.
Not having an adequate concentration of disinfectant in the pool or when not using an appropriate
and effective disinfectant.
The lack of clarity and transparency of the water.
The presence of contamination with fecal materials or remnants of vomiting in the pool during the
inspection.
Electrical safety - Presence of exposed electrical wires or any other apparent electrical defect.
The absence of lifeguards or supervisors.
The lack of adequate lighting while using the pool at night.
Unsuitable weather conditions of dust, dirt, sandstorms, etc.
The presence of any causes or factors that pose a direct threat to the health or safety of the users.

17. Appendices
The quality standards of Recreational water
Table 1: Disinfection parameters
Table 2: Other water quality parameters
Table 3: Recommended minimum routine testing frequency
Table 4: Sample pool log sheet
Table 5: Toilet facilities and changing rooms
Table 6: The number of lifeguards required to be present according to the size of the pool
Table 7: Teacher to student Ratio Guidelines.
Table 8: Recommended temperature ranges for different types and uses of the pool
Table 9: Turnover periods for different types of pool
Table 10: NOPs and EAP
Table 11: Good Practices in Management and Operation: Main issues related to health protection

The Quality Parameters of Recreational Water
Table 1: Disinfection parameters
Disinfection type Parameter Pool type Minimum Maximum
Chlorine Free available chlorine Indoor pool 1 mg/l 3 mg/l
Free available chlorine Outdoor pool 2 mg/l 4 mg/l
Free available chlorine Spa 2 mg/l 4 mg/l
Bromine Total bromine Pool 1 mg/l 8 mg/l
Total bromine Spa 2 mg/l 8 mg/l
Table 2: Other water quality parameters
Category Parameter Pool type Minimum Maximum

Water
pH (chlorine disinfection) Pool or spa 7.2 7.8
balance
pH (bromine disinfection) Pool or spa 7.2 8.0
Total alkalinity (as TA) Pool or spa 80 mg/l 120 mg/l
Calcium hardness (as
Pool or spa 75 mg/l 300 mg/l
CaCO3)
<1000 mg/l
above the
Total dissolved solids Pool or spa N/A source water
concentration
Physical/
Clarity/turbidity Should be
environmen-
(Pool clarity is measured Pool or spa N/A based on risk
tal/
by Secchi disc.) assessment
operational
Cyanuric acid Outdoor pool N/A <100 mg/l
Dimethyl hydantoin Pool or spa N/A <200 mg/l

Temperature 40 °C
Microbiologi- Thermotolerant coli- Pool or spa N/A <1 cfu /100 ml

cal forms/ E. coli

Heterotrophic plate count Pool N/A <200 cfu/ml
(37 °C for 24 h)
P. aeruginosa Spa N/A <1 cfu/100ml
Contaminants Combined chlorine Pool N/A 0.2 mg/l
(chloramines)
Combined chlorine Spa N/A 0.5 mg/l
(chloramines)
Accidental faecal release Pool or spa N/A Effective action
(AFR) plan in place
N/A – not applicable

CFU – colony-forming unit
Table 3: Recommended minimum routine testing frequency*
Parameter Pool type Testing frequency

Free available chlo- Pool Before opening, then every 2 hours when the pool is in
rine operation
Spa Before opening, then every hour when the pool is in opera-
tion
Total chlorine residual Indoor pool Before opening, then every 2 hours when the pool is in
operation
Outdoor Before opening, then every hour when the pool is in opera-
poola tion
Outdoor Before opening, then every 2 hours when the pool is in
poolb operation
tion
Total bromine Pool Before opening, then every 2 hours when the pool is in
operation
tion
pH Pool or spa Before opening, then every 2 hours when the pool is in
operation
Total alkalinity Pool Weekly

Spa Daily
Calcium hardness Pool or spa Weekly
Total dissolved solids Pool or spa Weekly
Clarity/turbidity Pool or spa Daily

Cyanuric acid Outdoor Weekly
pool
Dimethyl hydantoin Pool or spa Monthly

(BCDMH systems)
Temperature Pool Daily

tion
Thermotolerant Pool or spa High bathing loads – bi-weekly

coliforms/ Moderate bathing loads – monthly
E. coli Low bathing loads/ infrequent use – quarterly
Heterotrophic plate Pool High bathing loads – bi-weekly

count Moderate bathing loads – monthly
(37 °C for 24 h) Low bathing loads/ infrequent use – quarterly
P. aeruginosa Spa Moderate to high bathing loads – monthly

Low bathing loads/ infrequent use – quarterly
a – outdoor pool using unstabilized chlorine b – outdoor pool using stabilized chlorine
* Testing frequency must be sufficient to ensure that the parameters outlined in Tables 1 and 2 are
met at all times when the pool is operational. These are the recommended minimum frequencies,
which should be adequate in most situations. Testing frequency, however, should increase in case of
high bather loads or changes due to weather (e.g., storms for outdoor pools) and may be decreased
for lightly used pools and spas.
Table 4: SAMPLE POOL LOG SHEET
POOL NAME DATE
TIME TESTING Temp OC Free pH 7.2-7.8 Total alka- Calcium Cyanuric

chlorine linity 80-120 hardness 75- acid concn.
mg/L 300 mg/L
6 am
8 am
10 am
12 pm
2 pm
Name of the Tester: Signature:
Name of Reviewer Signature:
Supervisor:

Table 5: Toilet facilities and changing rooms
Swimming pools should be equipped with toilet facilities and changing rooms, as shown in the
following table:
The pool Women Men

area
Toilet Wash- Bath- Seat and Toilet Wash- Urinal Bath- Seat
basin room clothes basin room and
with hanger with clothes
shower show- hanger
er
Less than 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 2 2
150m2
151 m2-300 2 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 3
m2
301 m2 3 3 4 4 3 3 4 5 5
- 900 m2
More than 4 4 6 4 4 4 5 8 10
901 m2
Table 6: The number of lifeguards required to be present according to the size of the pool
The approximate dimensions The area in Minimum num- Minimum number of lifeguards
of the pool by m. m2 ber of lifeguards at the rush hours
20 X 8.5 170 1 2
25 X 8.5 212 1 2
25 X 10 250 1 2
25 X 12.5 312 2 2
33 X 12.5 416 2 3
50X 20 1000 4 6

Table (7): Teacher to student Ratio Guidelines
Baseline Learner /
Ability/age/activity Quality Delivery
Teacher Ratios
Non-Swimmers and beginners - young children,

normally primary school age, being introduced to
12:1 8:1
swimming who are unable to swim 10 meters unaided
on back or front.
Children under the age of seven - Irrespective of their

12:1 8:1
swimming ability, group size should be restricted.
Improving swimmers - Swimmers of a similar ability to

each other who can swim at least 10 meters
competently and unaided on their back and their
20:1 12:1
front. It is recommended that the lesson be confined
to an area in which the children are not out of their
depth.

Mixed ability groups - students with a range of
abilities (from improving to competent) where the
least able and least confident are working well within
20:1 12:1
their depth. Swimmers techniques, stamina, and
deep-water experience should be considered. They
should not include beginners.
Competent swimmers - Those swimmers who can

swim at least 25 meters competently and unaided on 20:1 15:1
front and back and can tread water for two minutes.
Swimmers with disabilities - Each situation must be

considered individually, as people with disabilities are
not a homogenous group. Care must be taken to 6:1 with 1:1
8:1 with 1:1 support
ensure that there are sufficient helpers in the water to support in the
in the water where
provide 1:1 ratio for those needing constant support, water where
required
and a sufficient number of other helpers to provide required
the degree of support required by the range of
disabilities within the group.
Source: Safe Practice in School Swimming Policy, 2018

Table 8: Recommended temperature ranges for different types and uses of the pool
Range of
Pool use
temperature (oC)
Competitive swimming and diving, fitness swimming, training 26-28

Recreational swimming, adult teaching 27-29
Leisure waters 28-30
Children’s teaching 29-31
Babies, young children, disabled and infirm 30-32
Source: Code of Practice the management and treatment of swimming pool water, 2013

Table (9): Turnover periods for different types of pool
Pool type Turnover rate

Competition pools 50m long 3 to 4h
Conventional public pools up to 25m long with a 1m shallow end 2.5 to 3h
Diving pools 4 to 8h
Leisure water bubble pools 5 to 20min
Leisure waters up to 0.5m deep 10 to 45 min
Leisure waters 0.5 to 1m deep 30 to 75min
Leisure waters 1 to 1.5m deep 1 to 2h
Leisure waters over 1.5m deep 2 to 2.5h
Teaching/learning/training pools 30 to 90min
Source: Code of Practice the management and treatment of swimming pool water, 2013
Table (10): NOPs and EAP
NOPs EAPs
Normal Operating Procedure Emergency Action Plan
These are the day-to-day operational systems This should establish who assumes leadership
based on risk assessment, and would typically in managing emergencies and the action to be
include information relating to: taken about such issues as:
• pool design and depth • serious injury to the bather
• potential areas of risk • dealing with casualties in the water
• arrangements for lessons • sudden overcrowding in a public pool
• responsibility for safety • sudden lack of water clarity
• staffing levels and qualifications • disorderly behavior
• supervision and student behavior • faecal contamination
• arrangements for students with particular • vomit
needs (e.g. very young children, or those
• blood contamination
with SEND or medical conditions)
• emergency action due to:
• pool’s safety equipment
• fire alarm
• swimming cloths and personal equipment
• power failure
• maximum numbers
• structural failure
• first aid provision
• toxic-gas emission
• water quality
Source: Safe Practice in School Swimming Policy, 2018

Table 11: Good Practices in Management and Operation: Main issues related to health
protection
Target Good operating procedure
· Provide properly trained and equipped

lifeguards.
· The existence of clear procedures for dealing
with emergencies and all employees shall be
trained over them.
· Monitoring water turbidity and developing an
action plan to deal with deviations from the
Prevention of drowning accidents
acceptable range.
· Natural spas and hot pools operate at
temperatures below 40 ° C.
· Ensure that unauthorized access is prevented.
· Presence of safety guideline panels
· Banning the consumption or provision of
alcohol in the recreational facility
· Clear signs to prevent diving into shallow water,

effective supervision from the lifeguard, and
support from management.
· Dive boards not accessible to untrained
Prevention of diving injuries
people.
· High panels, non-slippery surfaces.
· Zones for non-swimmers and children
· Increase supervision
· Checking that the drain caps are in place and

Prevention of risk of movement impairment not damaged.
· Emergency shutdowns are visible
· Have a regular cleaning program for all surfaces

subject to algae or bacteria growth.
· Reduce the presence of removable objects
Prevention of falls/tripping/slipping accidents near the edge of the pool and pose a trip
hazard
· Do not use glass around the basin
· Have a good non-slippery designed floors
· Having a clear plan for emergency evacuation

and a general emergency plan.
· Availability of rescue and rescue equipment for
lifeguards.
The ability to respond to incidents
· Availability of aid equipment and easily
accessible.
· Availability of local emergency and first aid
facilities and easy to access

· The existence of clear and announced
procedures to deal with this situation
· Training of employees on the set plan
· Evacuate the swimming pool directly
· Keep the pool closed until correcting
Controlling unintended fecal contamination
procedures are completed. Six full water
· filtration cycles are completed while using the
highest disinfectant concentration (level)
· Empty the kids’ pool and conduct the cleaning
and disinfection procedure
· Encourage users to shower before using the

facilities
· Posters and educational materials are available.
· Implementation and follow-up of the water
quality-monitoring program that is recorded
by trained personnel.
· Respecting the load limits of the swimming
pool and not exceeding its maximum limits.
· Corrective actions to deal with unacceptable
values of water quality indicators, whether
Maintenance of water quality and cleaning of
chemical or microbial.
auxiliary facilities
· Prior identification of a source of expertise that
can be referred to solve the problem and
prevent problems in the water pool
· Availability of water testing equipment.
· Monitor the filtration performance periodically
and take action if it is outside the operational
requirements.
· Maintaining toilets, bathrooms, shower rooms,
and changing rooms, so that they are in a clean
and acceptable condition.
Source: World Health Organization, 2006
18. References:
• WHO 2016: topic consultancy with WHO.
• Health Protection NSW. Public swimming pool and spa pool advisory document. Sydney: 2013.
• Recommended Standards for Swimming Pool Design and Operation
• Policies for the Review and Approval of Plans and Specifications for Public Pools (2007)
• WHO 2006: Guidelines for safe recreational water environments. Volume 2 Swimming pools and
similar environments.
• Technical Guidelines no (69) – 2004: swimming pool safety. DUBAI MUNICIPALITY ENVIRONMENT
PROTECTION & SAFETY SECTION
• Managing health and safety in swimming pools (2003)
• Code of Practice the management and treatment of swimming pool water, (2013)
• Safe Practice in School Swimming Policy, (2018).


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HEALTH AND SAFETY

PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT

PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Field and Scope of Application 2

Operation Permit Issued by the Ministry of Public Health 3

Health Risks Related to Recreational Water Usage 3

Construction Requirements and Devices 4

Health Requirements for the Facility 5

Chemical and Microbial Risk Management at the Recreational Water Facility 6

Air Quality Management at the Recreational Facility 14

Safety and Life-Saving Equipment 15

Educating the Public and Signboards 16

Facility’s Workers Requirements 17

Routine Operations at the Facility 18

Procedures in case of Accidental Microbial Contamination 19

Swimming Pool Closure 26

Water turnover rate

2 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

Standard operating procedures (SOP)

3. Operating Permit Issued by the Ministry of Public Health

4. Health Risks Related to Recreational Water Usage

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 3

5. Construction Requirements and Devices

4 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

6. Health Requirements for the Facility

Water depth Max bathing load

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 5

Showers and Sinks Designated for Legs

Swimming Pool Utilities and Dressing Rooms

7. Chemical and Microbial Risk Management at the Recreational Water

6 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

Pool Water Treatments

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 7

When choosing a disinfectant, the following shall be observed:

8 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

Important considerations when using UV lamps and ozone for disinfection

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 9

Microbial risk management in a recreational water facility

10 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

II: Addition of flocculants

1. The disinfectant proportion in the water

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 11

12 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 13

8. Air Quality Management at the Recreational Facility

14 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

9. Safety and Life-Saving Equipment

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 15

10. Educating the Public and Signboards

16 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

11. Facility’s Workers Requirements

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 17

18 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

13. Procedures in case of Accidental Microbial Contamination

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 19

20 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER

HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL WATER 21