The summer season might be an ideal time to take a dip in a  hot tub, but this can represent a high risk location for legionella bacteria growth and extra caution, such as legionella testing, must be taken if they are to be enjoyed safely.

Hotels are particularly at risk of legionella as they often feature spa pools on-site, with many people using them on a daily basis.

The higher temperatures and water conditions that spa pools create mean an effective water management strategy should be implemented to safeguard against legionella bacteria and other harmful microbes.

Here is our 3-step guide to ensuring the water quality of your hot tub is maintained:

1. Know your spa pool system

It is important to carry out a full, in-depth assessment, in compliance with HSG282. This includes identifying where water is either stored or re-circulated, as it is here that legionella bacteria are most likely to multiply. By having a complete picture of your system you can highlight where the greatest risks to you water quality exist.

2. Water testing of your spa pool

Treating the water in your spa pool will ensure that harmful Legionella bacteria and other microbes are eradicated, leaving bathers free to enjoy a refreshing dip. Legionella testing should be carried out on a quarterly basis and monthly water sampling to test for ACC, coliforms, E coli and pseudomonas aeruginosa.

3. Implement a spa pool water management strategy

Once you have analysed your system and begun treating the water, it’s important to have a plan for future inspections and treatments. For organisations, it is a legal requirement to define who is responsible for water treatment and to keep records of regular inspections, all of which can be included in a water management strategy detailing the layout of the system and any work that has been carried out.

In the summer of 2012, three people died of Legionnaires' Disease after being exposed to Legionella which was later traced to a hot tub on display at a store in Staffordshire. The families of the victims each received £200,000 in compensation after the company responsible for running the store admitted civil liability. Tragic cases like this demonstrate the importance of managing Legionella risks and maintaining water quality in spa pools cannot be overestimated.

For more information about the various legionella risks present within hotels, and how to manage them for complete compliance, read our guide: