Proposal to Amend R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 565: Public Pools

ERO number
019-4435
Notice type
Bulletin
Posted by
Ministry of Health
Bulletin posted
Last updated

This notice is for informational purposes only. There is no requirement to consult on this initiative on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. Learn more about the types of notices on the registry.

Bulletin summary

We are proposing amendments to R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 565: Public Pools (“Regulation”) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act to make it more flexible for pool operators to comply with safety and water chemistry requirements while maintaining public health and safety in aquatic environments for everyone.

Why consultation isn't required

The Environmental Bill of Rights does not require this proposal to be posted on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. However, we are sharing our proposal to amend the R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 565: Public Pools for information purposes.

Bulletin details

R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 565: Public Pools (“Regulation”) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act sets out requirements and standards for operations, maintenance, and equipment at public pools and public spas.

Generally, the Regulation aims to prevent or reduce the risks of water-borne disease or injury and promote healthy recreational water use in pools and aquatic facilities.

The proposed amendments contribute to the government’s commitment to reducing compliance costs while maintaining public health and safety in aquatic environments for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

If approved, the proposed amendments would:

  1. Make an attendant optional at certain public wading pools with water depths of 15 cm or less only with prior notification to the public health unit, and the provision of signage, and a safety plan;
  2. Set water chemistry levels in line with current scientific evidence and best practices on the following provisions:
    • Set the required range for total alkalinity for 60 ppm to 180 ppm;
    • Set the maximum bromine level for public pools at 8 ppm​​​​​​​​​​​​​​; and
    • Add a provision to allow the development of a process/ mechanism to evaluate and approve of alternative disinfectants for use including conditions, and subject to ministry approval and based on scientific evidence.

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