UPDATE: November 1, 2024:
UPDATE: We’re pleased to report that recent testing over the past week shows that our daily operational average trichloramine levels ranged between 0.17 and 0.263 mg/m³.
To help maintain low trichloramine levels and a healthy environment at the Aquatics Centre, we’ve implemented several key changes:
- Increasing deck temperature by about 2°C to balance out the humidity levels, which will help the trichloramine dissipate.
- Adjusting water treatment processes.
- Fast-tracking an upgrade to a new pool water chemistry controller system. Our current unit was recently recalibrated. However, the new system will help us operate even more efficiently.
- Undertaking more detailed tracking of headcounts and spray feature usage to understand their impact on air quality.
- Encouraging cleansing showers before entering the pool.
We remain dedicated to supporting the well-being of our staff and patrons. Thank you for your continued patience and support as we make these improvements.
Misinformation
While the misinformation is disappointing, we understand this is a stressful situation for many, and we commit to ensuring that you receive accurate information continuously. In return, we ask for your patience and understanding as we work hard to find a solution to the air quality concerns that have come up. Contrary to reports, we have been working collaboratively and transparently with Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S), Alberta Health(AHS), and aquatic industry professionals to address this issue. The safety of staff and patrons remains our Number 1 priority at all times.
Another area of misinformation has surrounded our air handling system, which we can confirm is in good working order, and is functioning as it is supposed to. Any suggestion of deception or fraud in relation to our air handling system is unfounded and untrue. The unit is currently operating as it is designed to, which has been reconfirmed as part of our initial review.
Is the pool safe?
Yes, the pool is safe to swim in. The pool will have an unpleasant "chlorine" smell (that’s the trichloramines). Trichloramines in the air affect people differently.
Can I get a refund for my child’s swimming lesson?
We understand you must do what you feel is best for you and your family. If you decide to withdraw your children from swimming lessons, please inform us, and we will either credit your account or issue a refund, whichever you prefer - email info@trileisure.com or visit our front desk, and we can take care of that for you.
What is the current concern with the air quality at the Aquatic Centre?
Since late July, we have been investigating and monitoring elevated trichloramine levels in collaboration with Alberta Health and Occupational Health and Safety.
What are trichloramines, and why are they a problem?
They’re a chemical compound that forms when chlorine used in pool water reacts with organic matter, like sweat. According to industry experts, the level of trichloramine being seen does not pose an immediate health risk and is insufficient to require the closure of the pool. However, we remain proactive in addressing the issue to reduce trichloramine levels further and ensure optimal air quality.
What about your water quality?
Our water quality is closely monitored, with routine checks conducted around every four hours to ensure it meets the highest standards of public pool water chemistry. (AHS minimum standard is once a day).
It is not uncommon to find pathogens in public pool water samples. That’s why the water is treated with chemicals. There could be multiple reasons for this: The staff member taking the sample didn’t wash their hands, someone swam by while the sample was being taken, the chlorine didn’t have time to react to do it job, or the sample bottle was opened above the water, etc.
Yes! We are committed to transparency. Updates will be provided publicly through our website and social media as the situation evolves. We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to reach out to us directly so we can provide accurate information and updates.
Is there a problem with your air handling system?
Not at all. We constantly test our systems to ensure they’re working well, including our air handling system. The unit is operating as it is designed to, which has been reconfirmed as part of our initial review.
If you have further questions or need additional information, email airquality@trileisure.com, and the TLC team will respond to your concerns.