Cleaning Surfaces Around the Pool
It is important to clean the surfaces in or around swimming pools because illness can also be spread by contact with contaminated surfaces and structures, such as lounge chairs and tables. Use of these objects as diaper-changing areas means they can also become contaminated with microscopic amounts of fecal matter. The invisible fecal matter left behind may be easily transferred to the next patron using the pool furniture. Play structures in and around the pool that fail to get rinsed off by chlorinated pool water may get covered in germs from unwashed hands or build up a slime layer which can protect germs from disinfection. Scrubbing of in-pool structures to remove slime (biofilm) may also reduce the spread of germs. By keeping restrooms and diaper-changing areas clean, convenient, and close to the pool, parents are less likely to change diapers at poolside. Lifeguards and park staff can also explain to parents why it is important to use the diaper-changing areas.
For more information on cleaning body fluid spills on pool surfaces see: www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/bodyfluidspill.htm
Page last modified: March 29, 2007