New provincial swimming pool and waterslide regulations will become effective June 1, 2001.
Health and Social Services Minister Jamie Ballem advised that they are the first regulations of this type to be introduced in Prince Edward Island "Using accepted standards and an educational approach, we are working collaboratively with operators to prevent and reduce potential health risks and injuries to Islanders and visitors at public pools, hot tubs and water parks," said the minister.
There are now 72 public swimming pools in Queens County, eight in Kings County, and 12 in Prince County.
Don Cudmore of the Tourism Industry Association of PEI advised that tourism operators were involved in drafting the regulations, and their input is reflected in the new legislation. "Many feel the regulations are long overdue. While most operators are very committed to high standards of pool health and safety, the new legislation will help to ensure that all operators are compliant," he said.
The regulations call for new standards in several areas, for example, water testing; pool deck maintenance; public signage; water filtering and circulation systems; washroom facilities; lifeguard certification standards; and the availability of emergency aids.
Dr. Lamont Sweet, Chief Health Officer advised that swimming pools can be ideal places for the spread of communicable diseases such as skin, eye and throat infections. "The new regulations provide us with standards to reduce potential health risks and improve public safety. In cooperation with operators, our environmental health officers will be stepping up monitoring efforts to ensure high water quality standards across the province," said Dr. Sweet. The swimming pool regulations will be administered by the Environmental Health Section of the Queens Regional Health Authority.
Keith Tanton of the PEI Recreation and Facilities Association said the regulations are also welcomed by municipal facilities. "Maintaining high standards of water quality is very important, and we welcome the increased assistance with monitoring and education to meet the needs of our clients," he said.
Minister Ballem advised that pool operators will be receiving information packages in March that include copies of the new regulations, guideline brochures, and invitations to education sessions for operators.