IS 17260:2018 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for water quality of swimming pools and similar amenities. This standard specifies the requirements for water quality in swimming pools, spas, and similar recreational water amenities. It covers essential physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters to ensure the water is safe, hygienic, and aesthetically pleasing. The code also provides guidelines on disinfection methods and testing frequencies.
Specifies requirements for the physical, chemical, and microbiological quality of water in swimming pools and similar facilities.
Overview
- Status
- Current
- Usage level
- Frequently Used
- Domain
- MEP — Swimming Pools and Sports Facilities
- Type
- Specification
Also on InfraLens for IS 17260
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! Maintaining Total Alkalinity (TA) between 80-120 mg/l is crucial as it acts as a pH buffer, preventing rapid and large swings in pH levels.
! For outdoor pools, Cyanuric Acid (stabilizer) is essential to prevent chlorine degradation from UV sunlight, but its concentration must be kept below 100 mg/l to avoid 'chlorine lock', where disinfection effectiveness is reduced.
! Periodic 'shock dosing' (super-chlorination) is necessary to break down chloramines (combined chlorine), which are responsible for the 'chlorine smell' and eye irritation.
Frequently referenced clauses
waterchlorinedisinfectantspH adjustersozone
International Equivalents
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International Comparison — Coming Soon
We're adding equivalent international standards for this code.
Key Values7
Quick Reference Values
Acceptable pH Range7.2 to 7.8
Free Residual Chlorine1.0 to 3.0 mg/l
Combined Chlorine (Chloramines) Max0.5 mg/l
Turbidity Max0.5 NTU
Total Alkalinity80 to 120 mg/l
Cyanuric Acid (for outdoor pools) Max100 mg/l
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Max above fill water1500 mg/l
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Physical Requirements
Table 2 - Chemical Requirements
Table 3 - Microbiological Requirements
Table A.1 - Frequency of Sampling and Testing of Swimming Pool Water
Key Clauses
Clause 4 - Physical Requirements
Clause 5 - Chemical Requirements
Clause 6 - Microbiological Requirements
Clause 7 - Disinfection
Annex A - Frequency of Sampling and Testing of Swimming Pool Water
Frequently Asked Questions5
What is the ideal pH for a swimming pool?+
7.2 to 7.8. This range ensures bather comfort and maximizes the effectiveness of chlorine as a disinfectant (Table 2).
What is the required free chlorine level?+
A minimum of 1.0 mg/l and a maximum of 3.0 mg/l (Table 2).
How often should pool water be tested?+
For public pools, pH and free chlorine must be tested at least twice a day. Other parameters like Total Alkalinity and combined chlorine are tested less frequently, as specified in Annex A.
What is the maximum allowable turbidity?+
The turbidity should not exceed 0.5 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) to ensure water clarity and safety (Table 1).
Are bacteria like E. coli allowed in pool water?+
No, E. coli must be absent in a 100 ml sample of water, indicating no recent faecal contamination (Table 3).
QA/QC Inspection Templates
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QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.