Clean and hygienic pool: Steps to keep your pool clean and hygienic

To keep the pol clean and hygienic these steps should be taken:

Disinfection: It involves removing or inactivating pathogenic microorganisms by either using chemicals (chlorination) or through physical means (filtration or UV radiation) so that they don't pose the risk of infection.

Filtration: It is carried out to keep the water clear. As the level of clarity falls, the safety of swimmers gets compromised. Particles dissolved in turbid water can surround microorganisms and shield them from disinfectants. In addition, filtration is important for removing protozoa that are resistant to chlorine.

Circulation: This replaces polluted water with treated water, and is particularly essential for areas that are used, and hence polluted most. Proper design and positioning of inlets and outlets will ensure regular circulation.

Dilution: A dilution of pool water limits the buildup of pollutants from swimmers and other dissolved chemicals. Pool operators should replace pool water as a regular part of their water treatment regime.

Air quality: It is important to manage the air quality around swimming pools, specially in the case of indoor pools. Ventilation helps reduce exposure to by-products of disinfection present in the air.

Responsibility rests with users

Cleanliness of the pool is not the prerogative of pool managers alone. Users too should observe hygienic practices. Consciously or unconsciously, swimmers carry pollutants such as perspiration, dead skin cells, hair, saliva, cosmetic products, hair colour, and perfumes into the water. They are either unaware of the repercussions or ignore them. If swimmers don't maintain high standards of hygiene, a variety of undesirable diseases can be transmitted to them. These include gastrointestinal infections, skin infections, conjunctivitis and nose, throat, and respiratory infections.

To avoid infections and enjoy a healthy splash, here is a list of do's and don'ts for swimmers:

Before swimming

Take a shower, and use medicated soap to wash away perspiration, dead skin cells and cosmetic products. Wear a clean bathing suit. Wear a swimming cap. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly after using the toilet. Walk through the foot basin to eliminate bacteria and other impurities from your feet.

While in the pool

Do not spit. Do not swallow the water. Do not wear contact lenses while swimming as microorganisms in the water can cause infection by getting between the lens and the eyes.

After swimming

Wash off in the shower. Rinse your eyes with fresh water in case of irritation.
Precautions for children

Take children for frequent bathroom breaks. Small children who are not yet toilet trained should wear suitable tight-fitting plastic or rubber pants or nappies while swimming.

To paraphrase a popular saying, 'one rotten fish spoils the entire pond'. If you want clean and fresh water to welcome you every time you yearn for a splash, then both the pool management and users must make a joint effort to keep the pool clean.