Evaluation of chemicals used in swimming pools in terms of occupational health and safety and conducting risk analysis: The case of Amasya University swimming pool

The recreational use of water has been rapidly increasing worldwide. Swimming pools and various water entertainment facilities provide significant benefits in terms of both leisure and health. However, while advanced management methods, water treatment systems, and quality monitoring technologies enhance the safety of these facilities, it is not entirely possible to eliminate occupational health and safety risks. Considering this situation, taking the necessary precautions remains crucial. To ensure that pool water does not pose a threat to human health, regular microbiological monitoring and the implementation of effective disinfection processes are of utmost importance. Businesses must ensure efficient technical management to maintain the microbiological quality of water and meticulously inspect disinfection and water filtration systems on a daily basis for occupational health and safety purposes. In this study, chemicals used in swimming pools were evaluated from an occupational health and safety perspective, and an extensive literature review was conducted. During this process, potential hazards were identified by considering the working conditions, environmental factors, and equipment used by personnel working in pools, and measures that can be implemented to minimize these hazards were discussed in detail. Furthermore, a risk analysis using the L-type matrix method is planned to ensure safe environmental conditions in the indoor swimming pool of Amasya University. As a result of the risk analysis conducted in Amasya University's indoor swimming pool, a total of 80 risks were identified under three main categories. Among these, 1 were classified as very high risk, 23 as high risk, 38 as moderate risk, and 18 as low risk. Detailed measures to address these identified risks have been presented. The literature review revealed that similar studies on this subject exist; however, no specific risk analysis study dedicated to swimming pools has been conducted. Therefore, this research will make a significant contribution to the literature with its findings.