Swimming Pool Inspections
The Health Department regularly inspects all indoor and outdoor bodies of water used by the public for swimming in Boone, Campbell, Grant, and Kenton counties. This includes beaches, swimming pools, wading pools, water slides, therapy pools, and spas.
Most pools are inspected at least twice per year or twice during the season the facility is open. Water quality is also checked monthly. Inspectors look for a number of violations, including:
- Are there proper records of water testing, including chlorine, pH, temperature and alkalinity?
- Are there proper records for maintenance procedures, such as backwashing?
- Are pumps, filters and other mechanical equipment working properly?
- Is the water clear? Can you see the main drain at the bottom of the pool?
- Is a first aid kit, safety equipment and emergency phone available?
Closure
Pools can be closed by the Health Department immediately when conditions exist that are an immediate threat to health or safety or if the water does not meet the required standards. Pools can also be closed when there has been an incident where stool or vomit is spotted in the water.
Health concerns for pool patrons
People with certain contagious diseases or infections should not swim in pools. This includes individuals with vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and other infections.
Children who are not toilet trained should wear diapers along with plastic pants that are tight fitting at the waist and legs. Change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area and not at poolside.
Legionella
Legionella is a bacteria that is found naturally in freshwater environments, like lakes and streams. Legionella grows best in warm water that is not moving or that does not have enough disinfectant to kill the bacteria. It can make people sick because it spreads in droplets small enough for people to breathe in. Information regarding how to disinfect if water samples test positive for Legionella, please visit www.cdc.gov/legionella/downloads/hot-tub-disinfection.pdf.
Frequently asked questions
I was a guest at a Northern Kentucky pool and saw conditions that concerned me. What should I do?
The Health Department investigates complaints about sanitation and safety issues in pools. Complaints can be submitted online or by calling 859-341-4151. Please note that it may be a few days before your complaint will be investigated.
A patron vomited or had loose stool in a pool. What should be done?
Pool operators should follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for responding to fecal incidents
An emergency has impacted a pool. What should they do?
When emergency situations occur that affect the ability to operate, such as fire, extended power outages and water service interruptions, the establishment should suspend its operations and notify the Health Department.
More information
Please call 859-341-4151 for more information.
