Modernisation of pool technology required Too much chlorine in Bonn’s indoor pools

Bonn · Chlorine is as much a part of swimming pools as lifeguards and smooth tiles. But too much chlorine is known to be unhealthy. Limits are apparently being exceeded in Bonn’s pools.

In the past, levels in Bonn’s indoor pools were “more frequently” raised but not harmful to health. This is how the city administration has now responded to a minor enquiry by the Left Party. They in turn are demanding action – specifically in the form of an accelerated renovation of the Hardtberg pool and the Beueler Bütt.

“The concentration of combined chlorine is generally slightly below the limit of 0.2 milligrammes per litre. In the past, levels have been frequently exceeded but not to a level harmful to health,” the administration told the sports committee.

On closer inspection, says Tobias Haßdenteufel, spokesman for sport for the Left party, it seems that exceeding the limits is “more the rule than the exception.” The delay in the redevelopment of the indoor swimming pools in Bonn is coming home to roost not only because of the building structure but also because of the outdated pool technology.

The closure of the Kurfürstenbad and the Beueler Bütt have also led to more visitors to the remaining indoor pools, which could in turn make increased chlorination of the water necessary. Says Haßdenteufel: “The disinfectant chlorine in swimming pools is not, however, completely harmless to health and has, in the form of trichloramine, long been suspected of causing asthma illnesses, especially among young children.”

In the Left party’s view, this is another reason for pushing ahead with the renovation of the Hardtberg pool and the Beueler Bütt and particularly to press on with the modernisation of the pool technology. Filtration options now exist that are more expensive to purchase but which can substantially reduce the use of chlorine and also use fewer resources and are more efficient to operate.

Regardless of the outcome of the upcoming referendum, the city must ensure the necessary technology is used during the renovation of old pools or the construction of new pools to rule out possible health risks. (Original text: Rüdiger Franz, Translation: kc)

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