Public Swimming Pools & Public Spa Pools
Ensuring the safety and cleanliness of public swimming pools and spa pools is important to maintain public health. Council’s Environmental Health Officers carry out routine inspections to ensure pool operators uphold high standards of hygiene and prevent the spread of waterborne diseases such as cryptosporidiosis (crypto parasite) and pseudomonas dermatitis (swimmer’s itch).
Why are inspections important?
Routine inspections are crucial for:
- Protecting Public Health: Regular checks help prevent the transmission of diseases and infections associated with poorly maintained water.
- Ensuring Compliance: Pools must adhere to strict regulations outlined in the Public Health Act 2010 and the Public Health Regulation 2022.
- Maintaining Safety Standards: Proper maintenance and disinfection protocols ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for everyone!
Scope of inspections
Public swimming pools and spa pools encompass those available for public use, regardless of whether they are free of charge, on payment of a fee or otherwise. This includes pools at:
- Clubs
- Workplaces
- Hotels, motels, guest houses, holiday units or similar facilities
- Schools
- Hospitals, etc.
What do we check?
All public swimming pools and spa pools must be maintained and operated in accordance with the Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulation 2022.
During inspections, we evaluate the following:
- Disinfection Systems: Type of disinfection and dosing equipment
- Chemical Levels: Concentrations of disinfectants (chlorine or bromine) and other chemical parameters such as pH level, alkalinity and cyanuric acid (for outdoor chlorine disinfected pools)
- Records: Your daily water testing kits and recordkeeping
- General Maintenance: Cleanliness and overall condition of the pool and surrounding areas such as change rooms, showers, chemical storage, fencing and security
How to notify us
If you are opening a new public swimming pool or spa pool or changing the proprietor, you must notify Council by completing the online registration form below. This ensures that your facility is registered and will assist in assuring you are compliant with all relevant regulations from the outset.
Register Online
Alternatively, you can download and complete a PDF form, Public Swimming Pool and Spa Pool Registration Form(PDF, 113KB)
Compliance and enforcement
Failure to comply with the public health requirements may result in formal written correspondence, Improvement Notices, Penalties, or Prohibition Orders for serious non-compliance issues relating to the maintenance of the pool and water quality.
Inspection Fees
Inspection Fees are charged for public swimming pool and spa pool inspections. See the current fees and charges.
Resources for Pool Operators
It is crucial for pool operators to thoroughly understand the relevant public health requirements and implement proper training and protocols to safeguard public health.
To assist you in meeting these requirements, please refer to the following resources:
Ensuring compliance with these guidelines not only helps protect public health but also supports the smooth operation of your pool or spa facility!
Contact Us
If you have any questions or require further information, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 9952 8222.