BACKGROUND

Emu Ltd provides specialist survey, laboratory and consultancy services worldwide. Our expertise is valued by organisations involved in a wide range of activities, including water quality management. Our expertise includes laboratory testing of environmental and recreational waters for faecal and chemical determinands, bathing water quality investigations, pollution studies, wastewater treatment, UV disinfection performance testing and environmental monitoring / regulation.

Over the last 14 years, Emu has gained extensive experience in the sampling and microbiological testing of environmental waters for the assessment of faecal contamination. This experience, coupled with stringent quality assurance credentials, is the foundation upon which the company’s activities are based.

Emu is ISO 9001:2000 accredited, UKAS accredited for bacteriological sampling and testing of water, sediment and sludge, as well as being uniquely accredited for bacterial tracing work using Bacillus globigii.

Why carry out routine microbiological testing of swimming pool waters?

Numerous microorganisms which are potentially harmful to humans can occur in swimming pools, spas and recreational waters. Appropriate management of water treatment ensures that bacteria and viruses are eliminated and hence pose no risk to users.

In conjunction with daily chemical testing, regular bacteriological testing gives assurance that operating conditions are satisfactory and provides an early warning system of any deterioration in water quality or failure in the treatment system.

Failure to implement routine bacteriological testing represents a breakdown in risk management and in worst case, may result in outbreak of illness or infection, pool closure and liability to prosecution.

LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS & GUIDELINES

Pool managers are responsible for ensuring that, as far as is reasonably practicable, persons using their facility are not exposed to risks to their health or safety (Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994).

The above regulations impose a requirement on pool managers to assess, prevent and control the risk of exposure by ensuring adequate bacteriological testing is carried out.

Guidance documents on pool management and water quality monitoring include the recently published BSI Code of Practice PAS39:2003; and, “Swimming Pool Water” Treatment & Quality Standards (PWTAG, 1999).

Swimming Pool Sampling

For effective monitoring, the Pool Manager must ensure

• sampling is carried out by trained personnel in accordance with appropriate procedures
  
  
• samples are tested by a regulated, accredited laboratory

The laboratory should provide regular reporting and liaison with the Pool Manager to ensure test results are reviewed and actions are taken to maintain compliance with guidelines.

Emu Ltd provides a quality assured personal service to support the Pool Manager in the continued successful operation of their facility.