Calls have been made for the statutory regulation of swimming pools due to an increase in personal injury claims associated with chlorinated swimming pools.
Speaking about the lack of state regulation of swimming pools in Ireland Liam Moloney, Personal Injury Solicitor said today “there are currently no state regulations relating to water quality in Irish swimming pools and spas as the Irish Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 only apply to fresh and sea water bathing areas and do not include swimming pools”
Mr Moloney continued “a variety of micro-organisms can be found in swimming pools and there remains a serious risk of significant microbial contamination and illness. While this can be controlled and managed with disinfectant concentrations, well operated filters and frequent monitoring of non-microbial levels swimmers frequently contaminate pool waters when they have a faecal incident in the water or when swimmers do not shower thoroughly before getting in to the water”.
While chlorine is supposed to take care of most of the microbes floating around in pools human waste is stubbornly resistant to being sanitized. A study conducted in 2012 by the US based Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that 58% of pool filter samples tested by them tested positive for e-coli, a bacteria normally found in the human gut and faeces. E-coli are a marker for faecal contamination.
Calling for greater protection of human health Mr Moloney added “it is essential that swimming pools are properly regulated and managed to ensure the highest levels of safety for swimmers. Pools should be properly chlorinated with regular testing of their chlorine and pH levels. Pool staff should maintain an accurate and up to date record of disinfectant/pH levels and maintenance activities and they should ensure the cleanliness and safety of bathroom showers and nappy changing areas”.
If you have been injured using a swimming pool please call our offices today to enquire about your legal rights or simply complete our online claim form.
