Drowning is the second leading cause of preventable deaths among Canadian children under 10 years of age and the primary cause for those one to five years old.
Skin cancer and heat-related illnesses, prevention of these diseases, and basic ways for workers to maintain proper nutrition throughout the busy months.
Every aquatic facility operator wants an environment that is not only healthy for patrons and staff, but also enjoyable for spectators. Accomplishing this requires a lot of work to maintain the water chemistry and air quality.
it is important for outdoor workers to understand the risks of sun and ultraviolet (UV) exposure and know the steps to minimize their risk. Workers should execute safe sun practices such as covering up in the summer months, taking breaks in the shade, using sunscreen, and drinking plenty of water.
In the construction industry, the Certificate of Recognition (COR™) has become a national benchmark for positive safety behaviours and performance. The program was initiated in the province of Alberta more than 20 years ago and is nationally trademarked and endorsed by participating members of the Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations (CFCSA) of which the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA)1 is a member. It provides employers with an effective tool to assess their health and safety management system.
Physical activities, including those associated with aquatic facilities, have inherent risks associated with them. Having an aquatic risk management plan in place will not only protect users, but also staff. In the strict definition of the law, aquatic professionals have a ‘duty of care,’ and failure to exercise that duty can be deemed as negligence. Therefore, putting a risk management plan into effect is the best way to abide by this law. This plan should identify areas of potential risk to injuries and illnesses for patrons and staff. Every business encounters risks, some of which are predictable and under management’s control; others are unpredictable and uncontrollable.
The relationship between the local health department and the owners, operators, lifeguards, and support staff of public pools and spas, can be seen as multi-dimensional, but from any angle it is directly related and essential to the health and safety of patrons. The inspectors’ role ranges from inspection and enforcement to training and support. Numerous risks can be associated with recreational water facility use, including potential exposure to waterborne illnesses, not to mention life-threatening injuries. Inspectors, and those who manage or oversee the operation of these facilities, can work together to ensure they are operated in compliance with relevant public health legislation.
The primary goal of water treatment is to help protect swimmers from disease. Of course, it is important to protect the pool as well, but bather health is the first priority. This article will focus on the adverse health effects that can result from poorly treated pools and how to prevent them.
