Total Coliform bacteria are a group of naturally-occurring bacteria that are present in all surface water and are in the intestinal tract of human and other warm-blooded animals. The presence of coliforms in a pool or spa indicates possible deficiencies in chlorine residuals, water clarity, filter backwashing or cleaning, pool cleanliness, swimmer adherence to showering rules and/or proper sample collection technique. If a sample is positive for total coliform bacteria, evaluate the cause and take immediate action to ensure compliance with water quality standards.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common bacterium found in the environment and may be present on human skin, hair and in feces. It may be introduced into a pool in many ways, e.g. from the soil carried on the feet of the user. Whirlpools with elevated temperatures, reduced chlorine residual and increased amounts of organic material provide ideal conditions for the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This organism may be found in pools that do not contain coliform bacteria. If present in a pool or spa this organism may cause a skin rash or other complications. If a spa sample is positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, immediate action should be taken to evaluate the cause and ensure compliance with water quality standards.

University Hygienic Laboratory Pool Testing Program
According to Chapter 15, Iowa Administrative Code 641, a sample of water shall be collected from a swimming pool or spa at least once during each month that the pool is open for use. The test(s) that should be requested are the following:

The University Hygienic Laboratory (UHL) maintains a mailing list and automatically sends sample containers to all names on the list each month, providing all previous containers supplied have been returned with water samples. If you wish to be placed on the UHL's regular mailing list to receive containers, please fill out the form, detach and mail to the Hygienic Laboratory, 102 Oakdale Campus H101 OH, Iowa City, IA 52242-5002.

Instructions for collecting the sample, the appropriate laboratory report form and the current fees will be included with the sampling container. Do not include payment with the samples. You will be billed on a quarterly basis. Please contact the Hygienic Laboratory at 319/335-4500 if you have any questions.

Helpful Information
Based on the results of the tests conducted on your swimming pool or whirlpool, it may be necessary for you to seek guidance in restoring your pool to a safe level. To receive information and guidance please contact:

Iowa Department of Public Health
Swimming Pool Program
321 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319-0075
Phone: 515-281-3032

1. Provide the following information:
   
   Opening Date __________________________
   Closing Date ___________________________
   
   
2. Number of pool sites to be tested each month:
   
   

   Swimming Pool - Deep....................	_________
   Swimming Pool - Shallow...............	_________
   Wading Pool.........................................	_________
   Whirlpool...............................................	_________
   Total Sites................................	_________

   
   
3. Send Sampling containers to:
   
   Facility Name _____________________________________
   
   Attention _____________________________
   
   Address ___________________________________________
   
   City / State / Zip ________________________________
   
   Phone Number (________)____________________________
   
   Comments __________________________________________
   
   ___________________________________________________
   
   

   For state or county regulations

   For my own use