Pools, Spas and Splashpads

Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) routinely inspects public pools, spas and Class C facilities (splash pads, wading pools, water slide receiving basins) to test the water quality and ensure proper safety precautions are in place. 

Public health inspections are mandated by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and are carried out to ensure compliance with the Ontario Public Pools Regulation (R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 565).

Water-related illnesses can be passed through contaminated recreational water and poor safety precautions can cause serious injury. It is important that public health inspectors work closely with operators of public pools, spas and splash pads to prevent waterborne infections and injury.

Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) ensures these facilities are safe for everyone by inspecting them regularly to meet water quality and safety standards.

Opening or reopening your facility

All public pool, spa and splash pad operators in Oxford County, Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas must notify SWPH at least 14 days prior to opening, of their intention to open or re-open a public pool, spa or splash pad. If you plan to open or re-open a public pool, spa or splash pad that has been constructed, altered, or closed for more than four weeks, please notify SWPH in the following way:

• Complete an Online Application to Open/Re-Open a Public Pool, Spa or Splash pad
• Download the Application to Re-Open a Public Pool, Spa or Splash pad and submit to SWPH by fax, email or mail.

Public Pool and Spa Training

The Public Pools Regulation 565 requires every owner of a public pool or public spa to have a Designated Operator.
Every operator must be trained in public pool and public spa operation and maintenance, filtration systems, water chemistry and all relevant safety and emergency procedures. Below is a list of training options that are available in our area:

• Windsor-Essex County Health Unit offers free public pool and spa training sessions for pool and spa operators throughout the year
• The Lowry School of Pool and Spa Chemistry offers Certified Pool Operator Courses
• The Lifesaving Society offers a Pool Operators Course

Dealing with pool chemistry and contamination

Occasionally, problems arise when the water chemistry is out of balance or if the pool or deck area becomes contaminated. Below are some resources to help you troubleshoot these events if they occur in your pool:

• Cleaning of body fluids on contact surfaces

Fecal/vomit incident response recommendations

• CDC Fecal Incident Response Guidelines
• Southwestern Public Health Procedure for Pool Fouling

For the public

Waterborne infections can sometimes spread in pools, spas, and splash pads. They can cause issues like diarrhea, rashes, or ear infections. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself and your family:

Common waterborne infections

• Cryptosporidium: a germ that causes diarrhea
• Folliculitis or Dermatitis or ‘Hot Tub Rash’: an infection of the skin
• Giardia: a germ that causes diarrhea
• Swimmer’s Ear: an infection of the outer ear canal
• Swimmer’s Itch: a skin rash caused by tiny parasites

Symptoms to watch for

• Stomach cramps or diarrhea

• Skin rashes or infections

• Ear, eye, or breathing problems

Note: Children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk of getting sick

Tips to protect yourself

• Shower with soap before swimming

• Don’t swim if you’re feeling sick or have diarrhea

• Avoid swallowing pool, spa or splash pad water

• Take children for regular bathroom breaks and use designated diaper-changing areas

• Wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers

Learn more about healthy swimming in recreational water

What should I do next?

• For visitors: Follow our safety tips and enjoy the water worry-free. If you are curious about favourite spas, pools, and splash pads, use our Health Inspect Portal to view inspected locations.. 

• For operators: Ensure your facility and training are up to date. Have questions? Call us at 1-800-922-0096 for guidance.