Just as we write a guide on how to have a kickass swimming day in Beijing, the news breaks that Beijing’s pools are filled with excessive amounts of urine and low levels of chlorine. Seriously guys, stop peeing in the pool.
Recent tests of some of the capital’s swimming pools have revealed that the water quality just isn’t up to snuff. In fact, the water quality at some of the capital's pools and water parks failed to meet even the minimum standards, Beijing Times reports. This is often due to poor maintenance practices or owners cutting corners to cut costs.
Swimming pools at Tuanjiehu Lake were tested and results showed that the amount of chlorine residual was only one third to one half of the standard amount, which is 0.3-0.5mg/L. A popular water park in Chaoyang Park revealed similar results.
According to the deputy chief at the public places section of Beijing Health Inspection, excessive amounts of urine and low levels of chlorine are commonly found in outdoor swimming pools.
It is also common for maintenance workers to rely on polymeric aluminium precipitant, which helps make the water look clean, when in reality it might not be. The use of cheap and low-quality disinfectants also contributes to the problem.
Unfortunately, not using the correct amount of chlorine – which disinfects swimming water – can cause an increase in disease-spreading pathogenic microorganisms.
The good news is that roughly 100 pools around Beijing allow patrons to check the water quality by scanning a QR code. Or guests can call the hotline 12320 to lodge complaints. So at least you can take some comfort in the idea that you're not swimming in a urine-filled pool.
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