Nothing strikes dread into the heart of a pool lifeguard quite like the radio call announcing a “code brown.” For swimmers enjoying a scorching summer day, few things are more disappointing than the sudden order to evacuate the pool due to human waste floating in the water.
In the midst of Australia’s intense summer heat, public swimming pools frequently become packed with families and kids seeking relief. This high attendance naturally elevates the chances of encountering a “code brown” event at your neighborhood facility.
When feces or vomit unintentionally enter the pool water, what steps do pool operators take to sanitize it, and precisely how much time passes before it’s deemed safe for swimmers to return? The response isn’t straightforward—it varies based on several factors. Let’s explore the details.
The Risks Posed by Fecal Contamination in Swimming Pools
Swimming pools tainted with contaminants present serious health threats to bathers. Such incidents have been associated with outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis, commonly abbreviated as “crypto.” This highly infectious gastrointestinal condition brings debilitating effects like severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, elevated temperature, queasiness, and retching.
Health authorities in Australia actively track new instances of crypto, classifying it as a reportable illness. Should investigations link several cases to a particular pool, authorities mandate its closure for intensified sanitation measures and heightened chlorine application.
Beyond crypto, various other disease-causing agents, including viruses, can spread through pools affected by fecal matter or vomit. Research conducted in the United States, for instance, revealed that approximately 28% of individuals who swam in a pool contaminated with norovirus experienced sudden vomiting and loose stools, a condition termed acute gastroenteritis.
Managing an Aquatic Contamination Event
Pool staff adhere to established health protocols when addressing code brown or vomit occurrences, guided by state or territory public health regulations for community swimming venues.
The exact procedures may vary according to the pool’s age, its filtration technology, the disinfectants employed, and notably, the nature of the contamination itself.
In general, upon discovering solid feces or vomit, operators immediately shut down the pool and remove the material using a dedicated scoop or container, disposing of it properly via the sewer system.
Once visible solids are cleared, a vacuum system is deployed to further purify the water, while chlorine levels are boosted and sustained for a prolonged duration to eradicate pathogens throughout the pool volume.
Reopening occurs after the entire water body has circulated through the filtration setup, a process referred to as “pool turnover.” The duration hinges on the facility’s infrastructure: legacy systems might require up to eight hours or more, whereas modern installations can achieve this in as little as 25 minutes.
When teams meticulously execute these steps, swimmers can confidently return once the pool resumes operations, assured of its safety.
When Superchlorination Becomes Necessary
Procedures escalate for incidents involving loose stools or diarrhea. The pool remains off-limits while staff extract as much particulate matter as feasible.
Subsequently, chlorine concentrations are dramatically increased and maintained at elevated levels for slightly more than 24 hours—a technique known as shock superchlorination. Following this intensive treatment, levels are adjusted back to standard safe thresholds, other chemical balances are restored, and the pool is cleared for use.
Chlorine stands as the predominant disinfectant in public pools. Lifeguards frequently discuss free chlorine versus total chlorine when assessing water purity.
Free chlorine represents the potent, reactive component that neutralizes dangerous microorganisms like bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. After engagement, it transforms into combined chlorine through reactions with organic materials.
That distinctive sharp odor permeating pool areas actually stems from chloramines, byproducts formed when free chlorine interacts with contaminants such as sweat or urine present in the water.
Throughout operational hours, particularly on peak days, staff conduct regular manual tests and monitor automated sensors to uphold water standards. Chlorine might be evaluated every three hours to confirm it stays within prescribed parameters, a practice termed “balancing the water” for peak hygiene.
Preventive Measures for Healthy Pool Visits
Protecting your health and that of fellow swimmers requires proactive steps during pool outings to minimize illness risks both during and post-swim.
The foremost precaution is avoiding the pool altogether if you’re under the weather, have experienced diarrhea within the prior two weeks, or carry diagnoses like cryptosporidiosis, E. coli, shigella, or similar viral infections.
Children often get carried away with aquatic play and overlook the need for bathroom visits. Caregivers should prompt infants and young children to use facilities every 20 to 30 minutes, curbing potential mishaps.
Swim diapers prove helpful for the littlest swimmers, though disposable varieties often fail to fully contain waste or liquids. Reusable alternatives, crafted for secure containment, offer superior reliability.
Should you spot feces or vomit in the pool, exit the water promptly, alert lifeguard or staff, comply with their instructions, and consult a doctor if symptoms arise in subsequent days.
