ABSTRACT

Swimming water is potable water used for recreational purposes. Humans do not live within the water environment. Therefore, each time they enter it they are at risk from a bacteriological, chemical, and safety point of view. Obviously, while in the water humans inadvertently consume a portion of the water and therefore are exposed to disease or injury. Swimming in effect is communal bathing, with fecal and urinary accidents, and various orifice washings. Swimming pool water can be compared to dilute sewage, because it is contaminated by the swimmer’s skin, mucus, feces, urine, dirt, and a vast variety of contaminants that may come into the water from a variety of sources. It is therefore necessary for the swimming pool or natural bathing area to be frequently tested, properly constructed, and adequately protected by means of good filtration and good disinfection techniques.