Create a Covid-safe environment
Swimming pools require regular maintenance and upkeep to keep them safe and clean without any issues.
We spoke to motive8’s Head of Maintenance Warren Killeen to find out what measures need to be taken to maintain swimming pools during the Coronavirus pandemic, and whether any special measures will need to be implemented afterwards.
Why pools need maintenance
Swimming pools are complex systems involving large bodies of water which must be kept clean, filtered and chemically-balanced. There are a surprising number of parts in the pool system, including filtration, drainage, pumps, and of course, water. Keeping the surrounding pool structure and overall environment safe and sound is also crucial.
CDC is not aware of any scientific reports of the virus that causes COVID-19 spreading to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, water playgrounds, or other treated aquatic venues.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) have indicated that there is no evidence to suggest that Covid -19 is prone to spreading amongst humans using pools and hot tubs provided they are adequately maintained and disinfected. So, it is imperative to continue with regular servicing and monitoring to ensure safe bacteria levels and keep our residents safe.
None of these necessary tasks stop during the Coronarvirus pandemic. Just because the pool is not being used, it must still be kept in a sanitary condition in anticipation of re-opening soon. Is it imperative that situations such as the presence of Legionella bacteria are avoided and the correct chlorine balance maintained. The same can be said of spas, saunas and steam rooms.
Ventilation
Ventilation in swimming pool areas is also extremely important. Every effort should be made to ensure that ventilation systems of indoor spaces operate properly.
We advise increasing the introduction and circulation of outdoor air as far as possible by opening doors, using fans or other methods. However, windows and doors should not be opened if doing so poses a risk to staff or swimmers.
An increase in air turnover or outside air exchange before activities or competition is usually required.
Frequency of servicing
In most cases, pools require weekly servicing which will include detailed testing of PH balance and other chemical levels, filter backwashing, servicing of pumps, chemical management and checking all other areas of the plant room are working well including the heat exchangers.
Some pool-owners have on-site maintenance staff who are capable of carrying out some of the non-technical aspects of maintenance themselves. In this case, a visit from the pool engineers may only be required every two weeks or once per month.
Special working measures
At this time, pool engineers must observe the same kinds of safe working arrangements required of other key workers. They must observe social distancing at all times whilst at work and wear Personal Protective Equipment whilst working. This is unlikely to change soon and may even continue after the pools reopen.
About the motive8 pool maintenance service
motive8’s in-house pool and spa maintenance department maintain a large number of pools, spas, saunas and steam rooms.
Our swimming pool maintenance team consists of two dedicated swimming pool engineers and one general engineer. The team has all the necessary skills in swimming pools, plumbing, electrical safety, HVAC and general building to meet and exceed our client’s service standards.
We have a range of service levels which will suit every requirement, from daily maintenance, right through to annual servicing.
Most of our pool maintenance is in London and the South-East but we also service pools in Cheshire and other parts of the country. The pools we service are in gyms, hotels, and residential complexes and in private properties.
Pool maintenance is a specialist skill which requires a dedicated and experience team. your pool users will be better served by using a team with extensive knowledge of pool upkeep.
Living with Coronavirus
We’re all keen for pools to re-open but it must be done safely. Practical measures for swimming clubs and pool owners and users can be sought from Swim England.
In the future as a society, we will have to learn to live with strains of Coronavirus for a long time hence. We will have to adapt our practices to the new reality. But that won’t mean that we can’t enjoy the fantastic physical and mental-health benefits of swimming. We will just need to be even more conscious of the ways in which disease is spread and how to prevent it.
At motive8, providing clean healthy pool and spa environments fits into our overall vision of health, fitness and wellbeing for all. Please contact us for advice on the maintenance of pools, spas, saunas and steam rooms and advice on maintaining your pool during the pandemic and re-opening afterwards.
Our dedicated service team are ready to help you keep your environment safe, and your swimmers happy and healthy. For a free maintenance consultation contact please email us or call 020 8481 9700.
