Public pools and spas
What is considered a public pool or spa?
There are two classes of public pools:
- Class A pools are those where the general public is admitted or that is operated in conjunction with or as part of a program of an educational, instructional, physical fitness, or athletic institution or association. They are supported in whole or in part by public funds or public subscription. Class A pools also include those operated on the premises of a recreational camp, for use by campers and their visitors, and camp personnel.
- Class B pools are those that are operated:
- on the premises of an apartment building that contains six or more dwelling units or suites, or a mobile home park, for the use of the occupants and their visitors
- as a facility to serve a community of six or more single-family private residences, for the use of residents and their visitors
- on the premises of a hotel for the use of its guests and their visitors
- on the premises of a campground for the use of its tenants and their visitors
- in conjunction with a club for the use of its members and their visitors, or a condominium, co-operative, or community property that contains six or more dwelling units or suites for the use of the owners or members and their visitors
- in conjunction with a child care centre, a day camp or an establishment or facility for the care or treatment of persons who have special needs, for the use of those persons and their visitors, or neither a Class A pool, nor exempt from the provisions of the Public Pools Regulation
What is considered a Class C facility?
A Class C facility is any of the following:
- a public wading pool
- a public spray pad or public splash pad
- a water slide receiving basin that serves solely as a receiving basin for persons at the bottom of a water slide
- a public floatation tank
Public spas are hydro-massage pools with heated water, intended for therapeutic or recreational use, and utilize hydro jet circulation or air bubbles to introduce current into the water.
Does Public Health Sudbury & Districts inspect public pools and spas?
Yes. Public health inspectors inspect all public Class A and B pools and spas to ensure they meet legal requirements. Public health inspectors work closely with operators to ensure that these facilities are protected from causing illness through contaminated water or injuries to the bathers through improperly installed or maintained safety equipment.
Public Health does not routinely inspect public floatation tanks, public beaches, or splash pads.
For inspection and enforcement information, visit Check Before You Go! or contact us.
How often are recreational water facilities inspected?
The Ministry of Health sets out the minimal frequency of compliance inspections. The frequency of inspections is as follows:
- at least four times per year if the facility is operational year-round
- at least two times per year if the facility operates seasonally
- as needed when public health inspectors follow up on non-compliance issues, complaints, reports of illnesses or injuries, and to monitor the safety of the facility
Inspections include observations to determine compliance with the regulations, testing water quality and collecting water samples. If there are continuing issues with non-compliance, a fine can be issued or if there is an immediate health hazard observed at the time of the inspection, a closure order can be issued to the operator.
Spray or splash pads and wading pools
Splash pads and wading pools can be a fun and safe activity, and by taking a few simple precautions, everyone’s health and safety in these spaces can remain enjoyable. Here are some important tips:
- Practice good hygiene: Wear clean swimsuits or clothing when enjoying a splash pad or wading pools. For children, ensure they use the restroom or have diapers checked and changed frequently. Make sure you practice good hand hygiene.
- Use proper swim diapers: For young children, use snug-fitting swim diapers to prevent leaks. Always change diapers in designated changing areas, not near the water, to reduce contamination.
- Avoid drinking the water: Teach children not to drink water from splash pads or wading pools, as it may contain bacteria or other contaminants despite treatment.
- Stay home if you are sick: If you or your child has diarrhea or any other illness, avoid splash pads and wading pools until fully recovered to prevent spreading germs.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Splash pads can become slippery, so wearing water shoes helps prevent falls, and protects against scrapes or minor injuries.
- Follow posted rules: Pay attention to safety signs or posted guidelines and report any concerns about water cleanliness or maintenance to the local municipality or by contacting us.
By following these simple steps, everyone can enjoy a healthy and safe environment and benefit from these recreational spaces.
What is a public spray or splash pad?
A public spray or splash pad is a water play area that has interactive fountains or equipment that spray or jet water to contact bathers and has no standing or captured water as part of the bather activity area. These can be located indoors or outdoors. Splash pads have become very popular installations and offer a great benefit to the general public.
What is a public wading pool?
A public wading pool is any structure, basin, chamber, or tank intended to contain an artificial body of water having a depth of water equal to 75 cm or less at any point. Its purpose is for the recreational or instructive use of young children.
Public beaches
Swimming at the beach is an enjoyable summer activity. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety and health to ensure a positive experience for yourself and others. Taking simple precautions can help you avoid potential risks and make the most of your beach day.
- Avoid swimming in contaminated water: Heavy rains can increase pollution runoff, making the water unsafe for swimming. Look for any signs posted about water quality and avoid swimming near storm drains or river mouths.
- Use sun protection: Wear sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Hydrate frequently to avoid heat-related illnesses.
- Swim in designated areas: Always swim in areas supervised by lifeguards and stay within marked zones. Follow all safety instructions and warnings provided.
- Practice responsible hygiene: Avoid entering the water if you are ill or have open wounds, as this can increase your risk of infection and harm water quality.
By taking these precautions, you can help protect your health, enjoy your time at the beach, and keep these spaces safe and clean for everyone.