Recreational Water

Public health inspectors monitor:

• Beaches where the public can swim
• Public pools, wading pools, splash pads, and spas

Boil-Water Advisories

The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) issues a Boil-Water Advisory when there’s a known or suspected threat to the water supply. An Advisory can also affect recreational water, including pools and spas. When the water has been tested and is safe to use, the MOH will lift the Advisory. If your water is affected, we’ll let you know in writing.

Find out what to do to disinfect your water during a Boil-Water Advisory (PDF).

Public pools

There are about 70 public swimming pools in Wellington and Dufferin counties.  Pool operators must know pool operating systems, regulations and guidelines.

Public health inspectors inspect these pools every three months, when operating, or at least twice a year. If there is a fecal accident, everyone must get out of the pool and the pool must be disinfected.

Spas

We inspect spas every three months, when operating, or at least twice a year. Spas must follow guidelines and regulations for water treatment and safety.

Splash pads and wading pools

We inspect splash pads and wading pools every three months, when operating, or at least twice a year.  Splash pads and wading pools must follow guidelines for water treatment and safety.

Beaches

Our inspectors monitor the conditions of public bathing beaches and the water. They test water for E. coli bacteria at the start of the summer and throughout the season. Conditions can change due to heavy rain, and birds that live near the beach. Beaches are "posted" when levels of E. coli are higher than Ontario Ministry of Health guidelines. Postings recommend that people avoid swimming or swim at their own risk. Occasionally, beaches are closed due to chemical or sewage spills or due to growth of blue-green algae. In the summer, we list “posted” beaches on our website.