The Isle of Wight Council is raising awareness of hot tub safety among accommodation providers, with a focus on preventing Legionella bacteria.
The council’s Environmental Health team will be contacting and visiting holiday lets, guesthouses and hotels across the Island as part of the initiative.
Hot tubs can pose a health risk if they are not properly maintained. Warm water and organic matter can create the perfect conditions for bacteria such as Legionella to grow.
Exposure to the bacteria can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, 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. In March 2020, a woman from Shanklin died from Legionnaires’ Disease.
The campaign follows national guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on managing risks linked to water systems, including hot tubs and spa pools.
The council says the aim is to support businesses and help them keep guests safe, rather than take enforcement action wherever possible.
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.”
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.”
Accommodation providers are reminded they have a legal duty to manage health and safety risks linked to water systems.
The council is encouraging anyone with a hot tub, whether used year-round or seasonally, to carry out regular checks, keep records and follow current guidance.
Businesses can contact the Environmental Health team for advice or further information by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01983 823000. Further information is also available on the council’s website.
