Some baths have problems with water disinfection
Published: Monday, Jun 17th 2024, 11:10
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In a follow-up inspection of 92 swimming pools, some did not comply with the maximum value for chlorate at all times. The focus was on pools that had not complied with maximum values in the past.
Food inspectors from the cantons and Liechtenstein took a total of 275 bathing water samples in 2023 from May to November, as announced by the Association of Cantonal Chemists of Switzerland on Monday. They were analyzed for chemical by-products of water disinfection.
In 43 of the pools inspected, the chlorate concentration was above the maximum value on at least one of the inspection days. At 49 percent, this included more outdoor pools than indoor pools (44 percent).
As these pools had already exceeded the maximum values, the authorities also checked whether the required measures had been implemented. 84 percent had taken these measures. However, 56 percent had exceeded the maximum value again.
According to the association, the chemical by-products of water disinfection are chlorate, bromate, perchlorate and trichloroacetate. There are maximum levels for chlorate and bromate. If swallowed, they can pose a health risk.
No maximum levels have been set for perchlorate and trichloroacetate. The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) carried out a risk assessment.
©Keystone/SDA
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