Advice on HSE Guidelines

Properties for rent that include a Hot Tub are in high demand this year, but it is important that business and property owners are aware of the Health & Safety Regulations with regards to Hot Tubs.

Hot Tubs, Spa’s and Jacuzzi’s are at the perfect temperature between 30 and 40 degrees for the breeding of bacteria which pose a risk of infectious diseases caused by organic matter in the water such as Legionnaires’ disease which can be fatal. There have been a number of outbreaks linked to spa pools in leisure centres, hotels, holiday homes and on cruise ships.

This information is provided for guidance only and is an overview, it is recommended that you refer to the below references for full legislative requirements.

1. Carry out a Risk Assessment and understand all the potential risks associated with a Hot Tub and decide how these will be managed.
2. A maintenance plan should be in place with a water treatment plan.
3. Reports will need to be kept that demonstrate that the Hot Tub is regularly inspected, which includes maintenance, water treatment and cleaning.
4. A continuous chemical feeder is available in the Hot Tub.
5. Regular changing of the water, full drain down, cleaning, shock cleaning is carried out and water to be changed between rentals.
6. Health & Safety and operating advice to be provided to Hot Tub users.
7. Full shut down service recommended every 6 months for spas with high use.
8. Make sure your insurance covers Hot Tubs and includes liability to guest using it.

Each visitor should be made fully aware that the use of the Hot Tub is at the users own risk. Any medical conditions, pregnancy, unsupervised children etc. is the sole responsibility of the user.

Alex Cormack from Lycetts Risk Management Services recommends giving each visitor a brief ‘Tool box talk’ on the hazards and risks of the Hot Tub offering a form in which each visitor signs that they understand the risks and hazards associated.

Further information can be found by following these links;
https://www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/spa-pools.htm

https://www.spatechtraining.co.uk/courses/water-chemistry-training/