PWTAG HYGIENE GUIDELINES
In the UK, the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group is a leading authority on the prevention and management of infection – including from Cryptosporidium – in swimming and spa pools. For many years it has provided advice, some based on information from the Cryptosporidium Reference Unit.
All commercial swimming pools are microbiologically tested at least once a month. and disinfected accordingly. Staphylococcus is one of the microorganisms mentioned in the BBC article that can appear in pools. However, it is not tested routinely tested for and not a particular threat.
PWTAG focuses on the positive and preventative actions that swimmers and operators should take to reduce any risks and provide a healthy swim.
Be clean and well before going in the pool
- If you have a tummy upset, don’t use the pool, or for two days after you get better. If Cryptosporidium is suspected or has been diagnosed, wait two weeks after symptoms are gone before going to the pool.
- Go to the loo and wash your hands before swimming; take children to the loo as well.
- Take a shower with soap; this also helps reduce the smell that comes from chlorine disinfectant reacting with dirt.
- Babies and toddlers should wear double wrap swim nappies.
- Others with continence issues should wear appropriate swim nappies.
When you’re in the pool
- Avoid swallowing the water.
- Offer children toilet breaks.
- If you see faeces in the pool, tell the lifeguard or operator straight away.
Pool operators and managers
- Encourage pool users to adopt the healthy swimming behaviours listed above.
- Know what to do if there’s a faecal accident. Read PWTAG technical note number 2 and remember it.
- Have the equipment you might need to hand.
- Make sure your pool and procedures are compliant with the PWTAG Code of Practice and technical notes.
- Date: July 2025