Why Spa Pools Are Risky

Spa pools (hot tubs) are high risk for Legionella because:

• The water is warm (30-40 degrees C) - perfect for bacteria
• The jets and bubbles create a mist that people can breathe in
• People's bodies add dirt and oils to the water
• The same water goes round and round

Keeping the Water Safe

Chlorine

• Keep free chlorine at 2-3 mg/l
• Keep pH between 7.0 and 7.6

Bromine

• Keep total bromine at 4-6 mg/l
• Keep pH between 7.0 and 7.8

What to Check Every Day

• Chlorine or bromine level (before anyone uses it)
• pH (before anyone uses it)
• Temperature
• Total dissolved solids (TDS)

Water Testing

• Bacteria count (TVC): Test weekly
• Legionella: Test monthly
• Pseudomonas: Test weekly

Cleaning

Drain, clean, and disinfect the spa:

• At least once a week (more if lots of people use it)
• After anyone gets sick
• Before using it again after it has been turned off

How to Clean

1. Drain the water out
2. Clean all surfaces with a proper cleaner
3. Clean the pipes and jets (descale them)
4. Disinfect the whole system including pipes
5. Refill and balance the chemicals

Records

Write down everything: test results, cleaning, how many people used it, and any problems.