These guidelines specify the minimum chemical criteria by which aqua therapy pools should be operated to minimise the public health risks to clients. It is important for people responsible for pool operations to maintain their pools at a standard equal to or greater than these guidelines at all times when the pool is open. The level of one chemical parameter can adversely affect another e.g. if the pH is too high or too low the disinfectant properties of chlorine are decreased.

● pH below 7.2 can lead to eye discomfort
● pH above 7.8 can give rise to dry skin 
● Cloudy water: possible reasons – pH > 7.8 or total alkalinity > 200