Statement from BISHTA regarding Legionnaires' Disease risks
Members of the British and Irish Hot Tub Association (BISHTA), operate to rigorous written standards of spa and hot tub water quality in both commercial and domestic installations. These standards take full account of the Health and Safety Commission Approved Code of Practice on Legionella, as well as guidance issued by the Health Protection Agency and the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group.
Particular care is taken in recommending regular test routines on spas, which are used by the public, or on display where the public has access.
Provided these routines are adhered to, there should be negligible risk of any water borne infection, such as Legionnaires’ disease. Experience in the UK has shown that Legionnaires’ disease is more likely to occur within poorly maintained air conditioning systems and centralised water heating systems, than within spas and hot tubs.
BISHTA members comprise the majority of importers and suppliers of spas and hot tubs as well as retailers. They are generally not responsible for the day-to-day operation of commercial and public spa installations, although they are always ready to give advice and assistance if requested.
14th September 2004