Using Your Hot Tub Safely
Hot tubs are an oasis of enjoyment and relaxation with many therapeutic benefits which will give owners many years of good service when looked after properly. As with many products potential risks can arise, particularly if a product is misused or neglected, but there are a number of simple steps that can be taken to ensure your hot tub or swim spa is kept safe, both when in use and when it is empty.
Originally published by The British and Irish Spa And Hot Tub Association.
Always use a cover when the hot tub is not in use to prevent unauthorized access to the water. Most reputable manufacturers have locking straps which can be locked using supplied keys, which should be kept away from children. Without the keys, it is not possible to gain access to the hot tub.
Modern covers are designed to maximize insulation from evaporation whilst ensuring a physical barrier to the water. Whilst they are not overly heavy, they can be cumbersome, particularly on a large hot tub or if the user is in anyway movement impaired. Therefore we highly recommend the fitting of a cover lifter to aid in the removal and replacement of the cover.
Always use the hot tub with the cover removed. Never try to bathe with the cover in place over the heads of bathers.
If the hot tub is to be used at night, always use the underwater light so that bathers can clearly see their safe entry point into and out of the water, and ensure that the access route(s) between the house and the hot tub are clearly lit as well.
Unless a hot tub is sunk or partially sunk into the paving or decking, always use a set of approved spa steps with non-slip treads to gain access to the hot tub. For extra security, a hot tub grab-rail can be installed at the access point and attached under the hot tub or attached to the cabinet.
If your hot tub is partially or completely sunk into paving or decking, always ensure it is clearly visible day and night and everyone in its vicinity are aware of it to avoid accidental trips and dunkings!
When getting in, or out of, a hot tub, do so with care and do not run, to avoid slips, trips and falls.
Never put your head underwater in a hot tub, or allow another bather to do so. The high water temperature can potentially lead to loss of consciousness.
Never use a hot tub with a water temperature higher than 40ºC. Reputable brands will be factory configured in such a way as to make this impossible, but we recommend that you keep on hand a good quality thermometer to double-check the water temperature against that showing on the hot tub’s display.
Always ensure your water is tested and sanitised correctly and the water balance maintained. Ensure the filter(s) is/are clean and the spa drained down regularly at prescribed intervals
Never use a hot tub when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Always use and maintain the hot tub according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Failure to do so could not only pose a safety risk but could also void your hot tub’s warranty.
Never block suction fittings or skimmers in the hot tub.
Never tamper with or modify the hot tub or any of its workings. Only use approved accessories and after-market products designed specifically for use in hot tubs, as recommended by your manufacturer or retailer.
Always treat with chemical products designed specifically for use in hot tubs. Never use general household cleaning products or detergents.
Whilst regular hot tub bathing has been known to afford many tangible and therapeutic benefits, if you have any concerns or any pre-existing medical conditions, always discuss these in advance with your GP
