Certified Pool Operator Practice Test

What should the free available chlorine be raised to in a pool with an incident of diarrheal discharge?

1. 15 ppm

2. 20 ppm

3. 25 ppm

4. 30 ppm

The correct answer is: 15 ppm

Pool owners might be tempted to choose a higher concentration of free available chlorine, such as options B, C, or D, in order to thoroughly sanitize their pool after an incident of diarrheal discharge. However, this could be harmful for the health of the swimmers and the pool itself. High levels of chlorine can cause skin and eye irritation, and can also damage pool equipment and surfaces. The recommended level of free available chlorine to raise to in a pool with an incident of diarrheal discharge is 15ppm, as this is enough to kill any bacteria or viruses present without causing harm. It is important to also properly clean and disinfect the pool area and any affected equipment.