8
Cleaning & Disinfecting
This is a two-step procedure – first cleaning of the pool and surround, then disinfection of the pool and
surround.
1. Prior to emptying the pool remove debris and larger particles from the water with a sieve to
prevent it from blocking or obstructing the outlet.
2. Use the standard infection control precautions (plastic apron, disposable gloves and eye
protection) when cleaning the pool. Ensure the area is well ventilated.
3. Cleaning - use a non-abrasive detergeant with non-abrasive sponge or cloth to thoroughly
clean the pool. Ensure the tap is cleaned first, so as not to transfer micro-organisms from
the “dirty” pool area to the cleaner tap region. Rinse well with warm water.
4. Disinfecting - use chlorclean or similar hypochlorite disinfectant following the directions on
the packet for mixing the solution to the correct concentration for disinfecting the birth pool
and surround.
5. Apply the solution to the tap and spout prior to disinfecting the pool.
6. There are 3 methods for disinfecting the pool that are commonly used in hospitals:
1) Fill the pool with cold water and add the requisite amount of disinfectant – leave for ten
minutes.
The advantage of this method is that it is 100% effective but wasteful of water, time
consuming and uses a large amount of disinfectant
2) Make up 2-3 litres of solution and pour it around the inside of the rim. Then use a new
disposable mop or cloth to spread the disinfectant over the surface of the pool. Leave for
ten minutes.
The advantage of this method is that it is economic in terms of time and cost but relies
upon the person carrying out the task to ensure that 100% of the pools surface is
disinfected.
3) Fill a spray bottle with disinfectant and thoroughly spray the surface of the pool and
surround. Then use a new disposable mop or cloth to spread the disinfectant over the
surface of the pool. Leave for ten minutes.
The advantage of this method is that it is economic in terms of time and cost but relies
upon the person carrying out the task to ensure that 100% of the pools surface is
disinfected
