Compliance with Best-Practice Water-Sanitation Policies by Pool Organizations

Outbreaks of illness from recreational waters underscore the need for knowledge about proper water treatment. A survey was sent to pool operators in one state (N = 829; responses = 219) requesting information about the person in charge and presence of operational policies and maintenance practices related to water quality and sanitation. Policies were in existence, yet significant differences were found between public and privately owned, as well as indoor and outdoor pools. Most facilities (95%) had a certified pool operator employed on-site. Findings showed that current methods of disseminating information about water quality and sanitation to pool operators were effective. A need was noted, however, to emphasize potential water contamination from fecal matter and unhygienic practices of swimmers. Model operational policies could be a useful guide for pool administrators