As cold plunges and ice baths become increasingly popular, a new document offers guidance in evaluating their design and operation.

Released recently by the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), the guidance is non-regulatory and does not establish new legal requirements. Instead, it provides a consistent framework for public health agencies and industry professionals. It outlines best practices for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of cold-water venues in commercial and wellness settings.

The document was developed by CMAHC’s Ad Hoc Cold-Water Venue Committee, which included public health officials from Canada.

The guidance covers:

• Design and plan review, including bather load, water circulation, and condensation control
• Water quality and disinfection challenges unique to cold-water systems
• Operations and maintenance best practices
• Recommended signage and risk communication for bathers
• Special considerations for single-bather, small-volume systems

“Cold-water venues present operational and safety challenges that are meaningfully different from traditional pools and spas,” said Sarah Cheshire, committee chair. “This guidance gives regulators and operators a practical, science-based framework to work from.”

The full guidance document is available here.