COVID-19 and Ocean Pools
Updated advice has been received from NSW Health regarding ocean pools.
From 15 May, swimming in outdoor pools is permitted where there are no more than 10 people allowed in the pool. Users must maintain physical distancing of 1.5 metres.
Please refer to the NSW Health and NSW Government’s COVID-19 website for updates here.
“The public health order issued 30 March 2020 requires the closure of indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, including tennis courts, ocean pools“.
On Wednesday 25 March, SCCG provided the following advice to its member councils, after consulting with NSW Health on the safe use of ocean pools and baths.
NSW Health stated that at this stage, the risk of contracting COVID-19 through swimming in ocean pools/baths is considered low as the COVID-19 virus is unlikely to survive for long periods in salt water.
However, people using ocean baths are advised to
- stay at home if sick
- stay at home if you have been asked by health authorities to self-isolate
- do not swim if you have had diarrhoea
- shower with soap before swimming
- minimise time spent out of the pool
- comply with social distancing (try to keep 1.5 metres from other people as much as possible)
- comply with protective measures when in the change rooms and outside the pool (clean your hands, cover coughs and sneezes)
- follow the usual health advice to avoiding swimming for least 1 day after rain
- try to attend when the pool is less busy
Councils were also advised that baths should regularly be cleaned.
In this unprecedented time, SCCG is seeking to achieve a regional approach to minimise the potential health risk associated with coastal and estuarine environments.
SCCG would like to thank NSW Health for their ongoing assistance to help protect our members councils and their broader community.
Please note, this advice is current as of Wednesday 25 March. Any further advice on public gathering and social distancing may change in the future.
