Swimming Pools

Swimming pools, artificially constructed repositories of water intended for swimming or water-based recreation, are popular across the United States. Many municipalities or other local governments operate public swimming pools. Many private homes also have [Page 460]swimming pools, especially in warmer climates. The water in swimming pools may play host to a variety of health hazards, such as bacteria, viruses, algae, and insect larvae. To control these hazards, those responsible for maintaining swimming pools often use chemical disinfectants such as chlorine, bromine, or mineral sanitizers, as well as additional filters. Concerns about the health risks of chemicals used in pool sanitation have led to the development of chemical-free alternatives to chlorine and other substances. Many of the alternative methods of sanitizing swimming pools also have negative environmental repercussions. As a result, no consensus exists as to sustainable methods to sanitize swimming pools.

Public heath pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and fungi can be present in swimming pools and cause diseases to swimmers. Common diseases caused by contaminated water include diarrhea; otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear; skin rashes; and respiratory infections.