Covid-19 Pool And Spa Guidance
Can the virus which causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2, formerly known as 2019 novel coronavirus) spread through pools and Spas?
“There is no evidence that the virus which causes COVID-19 can be spread through the use of pools and spas. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g. with chlorine or bromine) of pools and spas should inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.”
Following information provided by CDC and EPA, BioGuard recommends pool and hot tub operators should diligently follow proper pool maintenance practices:
- Ensure that your pool or hot tub continuously maintains a free available chlorine residual of 1-4 ppm or for bromine a 2-5 ppm residual, with an EPA registered sanitizer.
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Critical Water Testing Parameters |
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Minimum |
Recommended Range |
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Free Chlorine |
1 ppm |
1-4 ppm |
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Total Bromine |
2 ppm |
2-5 ppm |
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pH |
7.2 |
7.2 - 7.6 |
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Other Water Balance Parameters |
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Minimum |
Recommended Range |
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Total Alkalinity |
80 ppm |
125-150 ppm |
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Calcium Hardness |
175 ppm |
175-275ppm |
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Cyanuric Acid |
30 ppm |
30-100 ppm |
Follow all label directions for proper use. For commercial pools, review local and/or state health codes.
- Operate your pump at least 8-12 hours per day to assure proper circulation and filtration.
- Disinfect surfaces around the pool with an EPA registered disinfectant hard surface cleaner to prevent transmission of the virus through touching of contaminated surfaces.
- Do not swim if you show symptoms of being sick. Follow guidance by CDC, Public Health Officials and/ or Medical Provider.
Reference:
Information on COVID-19 is changing daily. The most reliable source of information is the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html. Additional information regarding proper swimming pool operation can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/.