Comprehensive water quality testing of high-use public spas

Findings from a pilot study of the disinfection efficiency of spas that examined the microbiological quality of whirlpool water support the routine use of water chemistry tests by health departments to provide reliable and immediate water quality data. The data which is gathered at the time of inspection is required by state health regulations to ensure the safety and health of the bathers. Seventeen ''high-use'' spas (health/racquet/exercise clubs) were selected from the 60 licensed indoor spas within the jurisdiction of the Cuyahoga County Board of Health. Data from standard water chemistry testing in conjunction with bacteriological sampling was compiled from five visits at each spa within a thirty-day period. Ninety-two and one half percent of samples from those spas met the established water chemistry standards for disinfectant, pH, total dissolved solids, and cyanuric acid, and were in compliance with the bacteriological standard for the heterotrophic plate count (HPC). The results of this study and recommendations for action were provided to the operators of participating spas.