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Consultancy Safety audits and pool safe operational procedures. Retained Advisory Service.
How safe are your facilities?
POOL AND SPA TRAINING.
Definitive advice and control for your facilities.
SAFETY ü Accident Investigation ü Expert Witness ü Swimming Pool Safety ü General Safety Audit - Plant and Pool Hall ü Risk assessment documentation and control ü Critical point hygiene analyses
ü
Unique bio swabbing for all critical points CONSULTANCY ü Training audits ü Plant survey and condition reports ü Pool Safe Operation Procedures documentation and training ü Retained advisory service (24 hour call service).
We have numerous blue chip clients who we have provided proven solutions to significant problems. With staff respected in the leisure industry, we can show you how to save money by limiting downtime and protecting your facility from serious safety and bacterial risks.
“IGNORANCE IS NO DEFENCE LITIGATION IS DAMAGING AND EXPENSIVE ” Robbie Phillips Sensitive Water Solutions Ltd.
BACTERIA IN YOUR WATER? THE TICKING TIME BOMB, LET US DEFUSE THIS ISSUE FOR YOU. L8 Compliant water system risk assessments. Ensure you are covered before it is too late!! CLICK HERE
Suction
Entrapment and Hair Entanglement. Control of Water Systems
Sensitive Water Solutions are pleased to announce that we are now offering specialist consultancy in splash zone and commercial spa design, management and auditing. For further information on our services please contact us. Robbie Phillips, Managing Director of Sensitive Water Solutions has recently composed an article on the issues associated with Splash Zones, to read a copy of this please click here.
We offer comprehensive consultancy services to meet your individual needs. Our wide and varied specialised knowledge allows us to provide the perfect solutions to your specific problems. Our services for swimming pools, spa baths and water0features include:
Click on the links below for more information on, and examples of our consultancy services:
SEE OUR TRAINING PAGE FOR DEVELOPING COMPETENCY OF YOUR STAFF.
NEWS UPDATE................................................................. We have successfully used Aquatrol to decontaminate and protect Spa Water Circulating Systems and general hot and cold water supplies. Used in conjunction with traditional disinfectants. The results for a grossly contaminated spa are excellent with a residual effect within the filter and internal pipes. We are currently assessing Aquatrol for protection against Cryptosporidium.
For further information or advice on any of our products and services please CONTACT US
Legionella Water System Risk Assessments Protect yourself with our fully L8 compliant water system risk assessment. Our service includes a full system risk assessment, comprehensive report, detailed list of any remedial works required and production of a HSE compliant logbook. This coupled with a telephone back up and advice service means we can provide an unrivalled level of service. Following a risk assessment we also offer a 1 day building water system disinfection service using a revolutionary synergistic biocide, unlike chlorine this allows full use of the system during disinfection, requires no neutralisation and it leaves a residual in the pipe work therefore continuing to kill bacteria. During this time we are also able to supply competent person training if required. For more information please contact us. As you know your water systems are at risk from many harmful bacteria and diseases, our Water System Risk Assessments are designed for all major buildings and can be adapted to your individual requirements. Listed below are the requirements related to the control of water borne diseases including “Legionella”: Particular attention is drawn to:
(a)
Identification and assessment of risk (b) Prevention or control of the risk from exposure (c) Management and selection, training and competence of personnel (d) Record Keeping (e) Responsibilities of designers, manufacturers, importers, suppliers and installers The aim of any Survey and assessment is to outline and to place on record, a descriptive plan of the extent, condition and design of all water based systems within the building, and to assess the Risk of Bacterial Contamination posed by these systems, particularly the Legionella species. CAN YOU AFFORD TO BE WRONG?
System hygiene protection
using high tech solutions. For further information or advice on any of our products and services please CONTACT US
Suction Entrapment and Hair Entanglement Risk Assessments
The silent danger lurking in our pools & spas!
For further information or advice on any of our products and services please CONTACT US
SPLASH ZONES A NEW EXCITING FEATURE REQUIRING CLOSE CONTROL
Introduction Splash Zones are a relatively new water based feature introduced to many leisure facilities. Perhaps it is not recognised that they pose a serious microbiological threat. In particular the threat of Legionella has brought these facilities into the spotlight. It must be understood that the the principle ingredients in a Splash Zone i.e., heat, nutrients and water are also the key ingredients for the spread of infections via bacteria. What is a splash zone? A splash zone is a series of water features located on a rubber crumb surface pad. Water is delivered from the features and sprayed over children. The water then moves from the pad to a drainage system. From there the water is collected in a balance tank. The water is then passed through the purification system and should subsequently pass into a separate collection tank which feeds the features. Many splash zones are outdoors however there are some located indoors. Design There should be two balance tanks, firstly, a dirty tank collecting polluted water from the pad and secondly a clean tank holding purified water for delivery to the pad via the feature pump. There should be a one way link back to the dirty tank to allow for water level control during periods when the features are not operating. Careful consideration should be given to the material used for the pad surface. Whilst rubber crumb will reduce human impact injuries these surfaces can hold bacteria and promote infections, particularly so if the cellular internal structure is exposed. Earlier designs allowed water to pass through rubber crumb which provided a network of channels ideal for the proliferation of bacteria and biofilms. Potential hazards should be designed out to provide a safe zone. Good housekeeping It is essential that physical and chemical cleaning is carried out to a high standard to prevent the growth of bacteria to dangerous levels; this should be complemented by constant monitoring and control of disinfectant and water chemistry levels within the body of the splash zone water. It is a fact that if the water has the recommended disinfectant level, is properly cleaned and diluted then the risk of contamination is very minimal. This in turn will eliminate the harmful legionella, pseudomonas, and other infective bacteria. Consideration should be given to a ‘rest’ period during the day, especially after periods of heavy bathing, to allow the system to recover. The zone area must be kept meticulously clean. To this end the surface must be resistant to chlorine based chemicals and common biocides. It should also allow for regular physical cleaning. Recent experience has shown the effacy of Silver Impregnated Hydrogen Peroxide as a safe and powerful biocide both on the pad and in the balance tanks creating a residual protection together with Chlorine and/or Bromine. The balance tanks need to be checked regularly for signs of contamination and periodic cleaning of these will also be required. Training Generic and site-based training are essential in producing and maintaining safe hygienic water. Training starts with the installer who should provide the initial practical, meaningful and documented training. This should be supplemented by a generic course to provide a basic knowledge of water treatment for the prospective operator. The Institute Of Leisure and Amenity Management in conjunction with Safety Training Awards can provide the latter with both their Pool and Spa Plant Operator courses. Site based procedures can be developed and integrated into Normal Operating Procedures and Emergency Action Plans. Common hazards. The risk of drowning is limited commonly to the balance tanks, these are often confined spaces where controlled entry and secure hatches are required. All zones should have suitable filtration and automatic chemical dosing equipment as detailed by Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG). There should also be a clearly defined dilution policy. Pollution of the system should be addressed, including biological pollution from sea birds, vermin and wastes from users. Bathers should be required to shower thoroughly before use. Chemical pollution from source water, water treatment by products and other sources needs to be monitored and controlled as per PWTAG guidelines. Similarly physical pollution needs to be addressed. The threat of infection from air droplets and Legionella Pneumophilia is a very serious risk; splash zones can generate perfect conditions in terms of temperature, nutrient and transmission via aerated water. Other human pathogens can also proliferate in a badly managed zone. Due to the nature of the chemicals used they have to be risk assessed and safe systems of work defined and implemented; and where required appropriate Risk Control Measures applied and strictly adhered to. Risk Assessments Persons who carry risk assessments and draw up the control measures to minimise the risks should have relative competence, ability, experience, instruction, training and resources available to carry out the tasks meaningfully and safely. They should also know the potential sources of risks, control measures and remedial action to be adopted for the protection of operators and users, and, to introduce measures to ensure the controls remain effective. In simple terms risk assessments must be carried out, monitored and acted upon. It is also a duty of the operator to appoint a person to take day-to-day responsibility for controlling and eliminating any identified risk from Legionella. Managing safely is a legal requirement. Recommendations for the use and control of splash zones. The main document for the control of splash zone water is contained in the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group publication “Swimming Pool Water Treatment and Quality Standards” Key information is also contained in the new STA/ILAM Pool and Spa Training Manual. There are a number of key recommendations we should be aware of which apply to all wet leisure facilities: 1. Introduction of fresh water to limit organic and chemical loading is essential. Most busy splash zones will need to replace water on a frequent basis. A good guide is the pool water dilution policy of 30 litres of fresh water per bather per day! This means we must dump water at a controlled rate with direct relation to bather use. Therefore it is essential we know the number of bathers using the zone. 2. Bathers shower before use to wash away unwanted debris such as perspiration, body fats, cosmetics etc. which can act as feed for bacteria and use up disinfectants. Good showering facilities are essential and can be used as an entrance to the zones. 3. Controlling water chemistry including the Disinfectant and pH. Total Dissolved Solids, Total Alkalinity, Temperature and Total dissolved Solids – i.e. Water Balance. It is also valuable to check source water regularly. 4. Monitoring and thorough cleaning of splash zone. Incorrect operation and maintenance can promote colonisation of filter units and balance tanks etc. The most common type of filter used is a pressure sand filter. They require specific maintenance (refer to the suppliers recommendations). A good regime is to super chlorinate regularly. Care should be taken to protect the probes of the automatic controller. As a health check, water in splash zones should be tested at least once per month for microbial activity. In busy splash zones it may be necessary to test more frequently. Legal ResponsibilitiesThe relevant legislation is: HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ACT (HASAWA) CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO HEALTH (COSHH) Operators have a legal responsibility to ensure splash zone water is safe for both staff and customers. This legislation is further reinforced by Legionella Legislation L8. The nature of splash zones, in particular the production of fine spray, renders poorly managed facilities susceptible to the Legionella Pneumophilia bacterium. It should be noted that splash zones have to be tested and corrective action taken where necessary frequently throughout operational days. It is also a requirement to record disinfectant levels and any remedial action taken. It follows that clearly defined parameters must be set to manage these facilities safely. Typical Daily Check List
Automatic dosing system The presence of an automatic dosing system is essential for any commercial splash zone. This allows the constant monitoring and necessary dosing of disinfectant and pH balance chemicals. It is essential that any automatic system be manually checked at least 3 times per day, to ensure correct operation. Water balance is another series of checks that apply to the splash zone. Any breakdown of the automatic system must be treated as an emergency since the constant monitoring and dosing is essential in the control of bacteria. Consideration should be given to closure if recommended chemical levels cannot be attained. Bacterial Contamination Due to the conditions that prevail within a commercial splash zone, if chemical levels cannot be maintained, then bacteria can multiply very quickly. The organisms will thrive due to the water temperature (close to body temperature), organic feed from body debris and the perfect medium – water. Uncleaned surfaces and water with low disinfectant levels provide an ideal harbour for bacteria. Conclusion The need for high levels of cleanliness and control are essential in the battle against bacteria. The most important item on your priority list should be ‘good house keeping’. Reference Documents SWIMMING POOL WATER TREATMENT AND QUALITY STANDARDS (Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group ISBN 0-951-7007-6-6). MANAGING HEALTH AND SAFETY IN SWIMMING POOLS (Sport England and Health & Safety Commission ISBN 0-7176-1388-7). LEGIONNAIRES DISEASE THE CONTROL OF LEGIONELLA BACTERIA IN WATER SYSTEMS (ISBN 0-7176-1772-6). Robbie Phillips is a freelance aquatic consultant specialising in pools, spas, splash zones and Legionella control. He carries out chemical and microbiological surveys. Safe systems of work for a variety of water applications and design consultancy for major organisations. He also undertakes decontamination of infected units.
www.sensitivewatersolutions.co.uk info@sensitivewatersolutions.co.uk 01639774041 Copyright May 2006
For further information or advice on any of our products and services please CONTACT US
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Bottom
drains in swimming pools should be at least 2 metres apart and also have
all openings 8mm in width or diameter (larger = easier entrapment,
smaller = increased suction!). Ideally these bottom drains should have
raised centres to prevent a bather sealing the entire drain with their
body, coupled with this the pumps should have a pressure sensor enabling
it to shut off before a vacuum is formed. The bottom drain suction
problem can be increased if water levels drop below skimmer / scum
trough / deck level skimmer levels. If this occurs then all water draw
off from the pool will occur through the bottom drain, increasing its
suction. This problem can again be worsened by staff turning off the
valve to the surface draw off system to prevent air getting into the
system. No pool should ever be run on bottom drains alone due to the
danger of suction entrapment on the bottom of the pool. For expert
advice and flow meter testing to enable you to comprehensively risk
assess this danger in your pool please 
In
spas mainly and also pools the danger of hair entanglement is very real.
When bathers swim too close to bottom drains or place their heads
underwater in a spa too close to water outlets their hair may become
entangled in the grates/outlets. In a spa this danger is increased by
the narrow suction pipe work often increasing velocity and also the
design of the outlets which often moves in a circular motion aiding
entanglement. If a bather becomes trapped often the only way to free
them is to cut the hair – interesting to note is that scissors co not
work efficiently underwater and often a knife is the only implement that
will suffice!