In New Zealand, it is recommended that all public facilities comply with best practices by obtaining either Quality Pool Accreditation or Pool Safe Standard certification, with each facility setting its own water testing requirements.
This month’s blog post discusses the tests required to ensure your pool remains in excellent condition and complies with industry regulations.
A site should have practical means of managing and adhering to testing requirements for accurate water testing.
Some of the aspects of water quality that need to be monitored include…
- Water Temperature: Although warm water is desirable for swimming, it also promotes the growth of bacteria and algae. The greater the heat in water, the higher the evaporation, concentrating pollutants.
- pH Levels: A low pH can cause eye irritation, while a high pH can result in limescale deposits.
- Water Hardness: Water with too much calcium tends to cause limescale deposits, and water with too little can cause corrosion on your equipment.
- Chlorine Levels: The absence of chlorine leads to microbes’ growth, while excessive chlorine results in foul odours and skin irritation.
- Salinity Testing: The salt levels in salt-treated pools need to be regulated for the efficient operation of the chlorination system.
- Adjusting to the Weather Conditions: Debris in the water can significantly impact water quality, as can rainwater if it dilutes the pool water. The best way to address this is to remove debris regularly and adjust the chemical levels after heavy rainfall.
We work with our clients to provide compliance, maintenance, and operational support, ensuring your facility remains a safe environment.
This includes meeting the New Zealand Standard 5826:2010, Quality Pool Accreditation, and The Poolsafe Quality Management Scheme.
New Zealand Standard 5826:2010
This standard focuses on the essential aspects of pool operation and maintenance. It includes maintaining high water quality through effective treatment methods to minimise public health risks.
Quality Pool Accreditation
This accreditation is a management programme offered by Recreation Aotearoa. It’s designed to safely operate aquatic environments and is specially tailored for retirement villages, schools, accommodation providers, motels, hotels, and holiday parks.
The Poolsafe Quality Management Scheme
This scheme provides an independent assessment of public lifeguarded pools. It involves peer-to-peer evaluation, ensuring your facility meets best practice standards.
Following industry best practices isn’t just about being compliant; it’s about ensuring your pool is a safe, clean, and enjoyable place for everyone to use.
To learn more about how we can help you maintain high water quality, contact the friendly Amotto team!
