Isle of Wight Council urges people to carry out hot tub safety checks this summer
The council says they're raising awareness of hot tub safety among accommodation providers this summer
The Isle of Wight Council are urging holiday accommodation providers to carry out hot tub safety checks.
It's in a bid to prevent Legionella bacteria, and will see the council's Environmental Health team contacting and visiting holiday lets, guesthouses and hotels as part of the initiative.
They say hot tubs can pose a health risk if not properly maintained, as the warm water and organic matter can create the right conditions for bacteria to grow.
Rachel Briscoe, team manager, Environmental Health, said: “Hot tubs are a popular feature in many types of accommodation, but they must be carefully managed to prevent serious health risks.
“This campaign is about helping businesses understand those risks and ensuring they have the right controls in place.
"We encourage all operators to review how they manage safety risks and seek advice where necessary.”
Exposure to the bacteria can lead to Legionnaires' disease, which is a serious form of pneumonia.
Symptoms can include a high fever, cough and shortness of breath.
Some groups, including older adults and those with underlying health conditions, are at higher risk of severe illness or death.
Anyone who becomes unwell after using a hot tub should seek medical advice.
Councillor Karen Lucioni, chair of the council’s environment and community safety committee, added: “Tourism is vital to the Island’s economy, and visitors rightly expect high standards of safety wherever they stay.
“This initiative is about supporting local businesses to meet those expectations and protect their guests, while reinforcing the importance of good maintenance and risk management.”
The council say they're reminding accommodation providers that they have a legal duty to manage health and safety risks linked to water systems.
They're also encouraging anyone with a hot tub, whether used year-round or seasonally, to carry out regular checks, keep records and follow current guidance.