Sustainability management for reducing the health hazards in the indoor swimming pools of UAE

Abstract

The rapid development of various leisure and public pools in the 20th century has led to increased human exposure to chlorinated products. It has been observed that swimmers and pool workers, who are in regular contact with chlorinated indoor pool waters showed an increased risk of respiratory and allergic diseases. Various studies have reported that by-products of the chlorine based disinfectant used for the purpose of water purification can trigger allergic sensitization, thereby affecting the epithelial barriers and increasing the permeability of the allergens. With the ever increasing popularity of indoor swimming pool and recreational water activities, it is imperative to evaluate the impact of chlorine-based disinfectants and its oxidants on human health and their possible association with widespread allergic diseases. This paper reviews the existing literature and empirical studies conducted with regards to the human exposure to the harmful chemicals and by-products of chlorine-based disinfectants, especially in an indoor swimming pool setting and its association with the development of allergic and respiratory disorders.