Splash March 2014 Issue - 92 by The Intermedia Group

Swimming Pools / Leisure / Aquatics / Spas / Health

Issue 92

February/March 2014

Is this the toughest game of all? Underwater rugby Super-efficient: modern innovations for cleaner pools Tiling preparation for the best result The world of water science comes to Australia

www.splashmagazine.com.au

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Contents 70

A barrier to common sense Cal Stanley discusses recent tinkering with the BCA relating to fencing in NSW, a situation seemingly comparable to an episode of Yes Minister.

Elena stars in Russian media AIS chief executive officer Elena Gosse is making waves in the country of her birth, courtesy of an article in the Russian version of Forbes.

Happy Anniversary, World Aquatic Health Conference Alan Lewis reviews the most recent WAHC, the tenth international gathering of pool science experts since the concept began in 2003.

Ventilation the key to healthy swimming pools Samuel Park looks at how pool air quality can affect an indoor pool environment, and what can be done to improve it.

Shining cascades of relaxation Tucked away in the Principality of Andorra is Caldea, Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest spa centre and one of the most popular places to relax in hot spring water.

The toughest game of all In terms of exertion, it dwarfs water polo and rugby league; underwater rugby is not for the fainthearted, but it looks like a lot of fun. Latest ideas for keeping pools clean We look at the most convenient and effective methods of pool cleaning, from in-floor to robots, suction and pressure cleaning options.

Perfect preparation makes for terrific tiling Fred Gray from Laticrete looks at the considerations and practises when preparing one of the most common substrates for ceramic tiling in pools â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the concrete shell.

Relationship-building grows the brand Lindsay McGrath looks at the importance of relationships in the retail market, and how that focus has helped the BioGuard business.

regulars News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Industry moves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Pool DAs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Commercial news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Tenders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Global news. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

New products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Spa tech tip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Ad index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Expo news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

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Published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd ABN 940 025 83 682 41 Bridge Road, Glebe, NSW, 2037 Australia Ph: (02) 9660 2113 Fax: (02) 9660 4419 Managing Director: Simon Grover Managing Director Interpoint Events: Simon Cooper Editor: Chris Maher Phone: 0412 048 639 Email: chrismaher@intermedia.com.au

editorial What’s actually in the water?

Contributors: Cal Stanley, Fred Grey, Alan Lewis, Samuel Park Advertising Manager: Karen Jaques Phone: (02) 8586 6135 Email: kjaques@intermedia.com.au

Despite this being a relatively small industry, it’s also a rather diverse one. It embraces building and engineering, marketing and retailing, plumbing and electrics, regulation and education.

Designer: Ben Akhurst Production Manager: Carly Saillard Head of Circulation: Chris Blacklock

But when it all comes down to it, one thing is absolutely vital for even the idea of a pool and spa industry to exist. Water.

For Subscriptions Call: 1800 651 422 Copyright All material in this publication is copyright to the publisher and/or its contributors. No material may be reproduced without the express permission of the publishers.

Disclaimer: This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication. This issue of SPLASH! magazine published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (Intermedia) may contain magazine or subscription; offers, competitions, forms and surveys (Reader Offers) which require you to provide information about yourself, if you choose to enter or take part in them. If you provide information about yourself to Intermedia, Intermedia will use this information to provide you with the products of services you have requested and may supply your information to contractors that help Intermedia to do this. Intermedia will also use your information to inform you of other Intermedia publications, products, services and events. Intermedia may give your information to organisations that are providing special prizes or offers that are clearly associated with the Reader Offer. Unless you tell us not to, we may give your information to other organisations that may use it to inform you about other products, services or events or to give it to other organisations that may use it for this purpose. If you would like to gain access to the information Intermedia holds about you, please contact Intermedia’s Privacy Officer at The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd, PO Box 55, Glebe, NSW 2037. Copyright © 2014 - The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.

SPLASH! contains NO advertorial. Proudly supported by

And while much of the work is involved in getting the water from point A to point B and back again, a crucial side of the industry looks at what is actually in the water. Disinfection is vital to creating a healthy environment for the end-user: the swimmer. This largely involves chemicals in one form or another, most often chlorine.

Chris Maher Editor chrismaher@ intermedia.com.au

But actually understanding what is going with those chemicals – as well as the ones already in the water and the ones the swimmers introduce – seems beyond most of us. Leave it to the boffins, we might think. However, having an understanding of the chemistry of recreational water is critically important. That is why we are so excited to have the World Aquatic Health Conference coming to Australia. This esteemed gathering of recreational water scientists has been imparting knowledge to members of the pool, spa and aquatics industries for a decade. In all that time, it has never left the United States. We are privileged that for the first time it is, and it’s coming here! The WAHC Down Under will be held in July as part of SPLASH! on the Gold Coast. It really is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the most important element we deal with. I hope to see you there.

This issue’s cover The tough sport of underwater polo is not for those short of courage – or short of breath. There is more on this exciting sport on page 33. The image of the University of New South Wales competition was taken by Wilson Zhang.

The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the above supporters, nor should any product advertised in SPLASH! magazine be seen to be endorsed by the above.

Members of

Audited Circulation Average Net Distribution Per Issue 6,387 CAB Yearly Audit Period ending 30th September 2013 February-March 2014

SPLASH!

news

Education

A world of pool science coming to Australia The highly respected gathering of international experts, the World Aquatic Health Conference, will be held in Australia this July at SPLASH! on the Gold Coast. This is the first time the conference has ventured outside the United States. In 2007, SPLASH! hosted the Disinfection By-Products Forum, which included “virtual presentations” from that year’s conference. However, this will be a full face-to-face two-day conference featuring some of the heavy-hitters in aquatic water research. These include experts brought in from the USA such as:

If Australia can’t go to the world, bring the world to Australia

Why should I care about science? By Tom Lachocki The World Aquatic Health Conference brings science to service technicians, builders, retailers, government regulators, educators and manufacturers. Most people believe that our eyes, skin and noses get irritated from noxious inorganic chloramines that result from ammonia getting into the water and reacting with free chlorine. Most pools are built and updated with single-speed pumps. Most pools are constructed with piping diameter similar to what we used 20 years ago. Many people believe if the water is clear, it is fine. New pool buyers often hear about how vinyl, gunite or fiberglass is better, or why it is better to use sand, DE or a cartridge filter. It turns out that organic chloramines from contaminants like urea, amino acids and proteins break down over weeks to produce ammonia. The ammonia in turn reacts with free chlorine to produce the noxious inorganic chloramines. It is still rare that pools have variable speed drives and larger diameter plumbing; even though the world is shouting that we need to be more energy efficient – just a better pump/motor and wider diameter plumbing can cut energy consumption by more than half. Industries that waste precious natural resources risk society turning away from them. Because the water is crystal clear does not mean the water is free of disease-causing microorganisms. Clear water may also be dissolving our customers’ heaters or pool surfaces. Humans don’t care about filter media types or surfaces. They are like us. They care about their family and their health. In just these few examples, it is clear that our industry’s success is defined by chemistry (chloramines), engineering (hydraulics and energy consumption), microbiology (control of germs), and psychology (human values). Of course, business (economics), physiology (healthy

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

exercise), maths (calculating dosages, volume, turnover, total dynamic head, etc.), and even therapy also apply. Why should we care about science? The pool, spa, and aquatics field is all based on science! Ironically, until 10 years ago, our industry did not have a scientific conference. That is why in 2004, the US non-profit National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) launched the World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC). The WAHC’s objective is to spotlight issues that help keep pools safer and keep them open. In reality, issues properly viewed are opportunities. The WAHC is also a key means to disseminate the most recent research and learning for our field. It has become a forum for industry, government and academic leaders who are interested in the diverse aspects of this field. The first 10 conferences were held in North America; there was one small symposium a few years ago in Australia. The seminars from 2013, 2012, and 2009-2011 were video recorded and are available for free around the world. Clearly, science is important to our field. The better we understand issues, the better we can apply chemistry, microbiology, engineering and psychology to solve problems and help more people live healthier lives. If we can help more people become aquatic-active, families and neighbours will be healthier. As a result, the pool, spa and aquatics industry will grow, helping us better support our families.

Why Australia? Why now? There are unique and exciting national policies and scientific advances occurring in Australia and the US that warrant greater exposure. Both Australia and the US are on the verge of implementing national standards and practices for professionals in the aquatics field. The WAHC’s focus is to spotlight important matters and to help bring industry,

The calendar year 2013 showed a two percent improvement over 2012. Over the 12 months, New South Wales and South Australia stayed relatively steady (both down one per cent) while Victoria was down 19 per cent. Queensland was up a massive 47 per cent but off a very bad year in 2012. In all, there were 10,142 swimming pool DAs recorded: New South Wales: 2939; Western Australia: 2855; Victoria: 2319; Queensland: 1220; South Australia: 809. There is more on this data at splashmagazine.com.au. January 2014 figures show more of the same, with a slight correction. Figures comparing the 12 months to January 2014 with the previous 12 months show the year down one percent, on the back of a slightly slower January with six per cent less pool DAs. On the 12months-to-January comparisons, Queensland again showed the most improvement, up 25 per cent to 1144 DAs. New South Wales had the most DAs at 3081, an improvement of three per cent, while Western Australia was up 11 per cent to 2851. Both Victoria, down 22 per cent to 2192, and South Australia, down eight per cent to 796, showed declines.

Comparison Year-to-January

government and academia together on big matters that impact us all. Now is the perfect time! Australia is the right place! Australian pool and spa industry members have taken a tremendous leadership step by working with the government Industry Skills Council to establish a Cert III and Cert IV in Swimming Pool and Spa Service qualification. It is exciting to see industry leaders, government and educational institutions working together to raise professionalism in our field. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed similar leadership by coordinating the development of the Comparison years-to-January Year-to-January 2013 Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), scheduled 2012 for full launch in 1500 July 2014. The MAHC is a science-based, public domain (free) code planned to help 1200 states adopt consistent operation, training and design requirements that will help keep pools safer. Of course, the 900in the code annex is applicable around the world. science described The code language has been influenced by outbreak and drown600 ing investigations that have been conducted and published for the past two decades. Like Australia, the MAHC has involved industry, 300 government and academia. The development of the MAHC in many ways follows the same path used to develop a national Food Code 0 Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan that has helped standardise food safety around the world. The 2014 World Aquatic Health Conference “Down Under” on July ear-to-January 2013 Year-to-January 2012 Year-to-January 2013 17-18, 2014 will be “Where Science meets Policy and Industry.” The 3500 seminar schedule includes two of the leading scientists from the 3000 US, including Michelle Hlavsa from the CDC, and several key health 2500 from Australia. The Americans will gain officials and educators insight on how Australia 2000 is elevating the industry and evolving and standardising codes.1500 Similarly, I believe, Australians will gain insight on lessons 1000 learned from outbreaks and how the US is moving to a national code. In addition, Dr 500 Chip Blatchley will teach the latest on under0 of chloramines and disinfection by-products standing the formation Oct Nov Dec Jan NSW VIC QLD WA SA and how we minimise them to help make water safer and healthier. The WAHC Down Under will complement the World Aquatic Health Conference that will be held in Portland, Oregon in the US, October 8-10, 2014.

2013 two per cent up on 2012

Comparison years-to-January 2012

Year-to-January 2013

1500

1200

25 900

600

10 300

Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan

Year-to-January 2012

Year-to-January 2013

3500

Approvals by State

aquatic facilities in WA; • Rachael Poon, a microbiologist with the Victorian Department of Health, who will look at the results of an investigation into the 2012/2013 outbreak of Cryptosporidiosis in Victorian aquatic facilities; and • Rob Stowell of Learning Australia, who will discuss how we can improve quality and safety in the swimming pool industry through national qualifications. The conference will be co-sponsored by SPRAA and BioLab. Below, the CEO of the National Swimming Pool Foundation, Dr Thomas M. Lachocki, explains why we should care about scientific research and why the WAHC is coming to Australia at this time.

2000

3000 1500

2500 2000

1000 1500 1000

500

500 0

Two-Monthly Comparison

• Michele Hlavsa of the Centres for Disease Control (CDC) who will discuss how to understand and prevent recreational water illness; and also describe the Model Aquatic Health Code; • Dr Chip Blatchley, who will discuss disinfection by-products in swimming pools, how they are formed and how to prevent them; • Dr Alex Antoniou who will show how to develop risk management plans associated with recreational water-borne illnesses. As well there will be distinguished Australian presenters including: • Llew Withers, who will discuss developing legislation and a code of practice for

NSW

VIC

Dec 2012 & Jan 2013

QLD

Dec 2013 & Jan 2014

2000

1500

1000

500

These figures give a valuable indication of the way the market is trending. However, they are not comprehensive. For example, they do not include pool projects that are approved as part of a new home, smaller projects under the cost threshold, or renovations that don’t require a DA. Also, not all councils are forthcoming with data; councils in some states such as Queensland are particularly reluctant. For further information and more complete reports, call Cordell Information on 1800 80 60 60.

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

news

Safety

Backyard pool chemical explosion puts Sydney man in hospital Sydney man Clinton Maynard was hospitalised in a critical condition in December following an accident mixing chlorine for his backyard swimming pool. He was preparing to correct the water of his aboveground pool with a shock treatment, following advice from his local pool shop after the pool had gone green. On the advice of the retailer, he used two kilograms of stabilised granular chlorine and premixed it with water. He used a bucket that was reserved only for mixing chlorine, and had never been used for other chemicals. However, he was never told to put the water in first – either verbally by the pool shop, or on the chlorine packaging. “The pool had gone green and we went to the pool shop and were advised to do a shock, add an algaecide and also a flocculent,” says Maynard. “They said we’d need to use two kilos of chlorine. The bucket was the same one we always use for mixing chlorine, and the same mixing stick. We never use the bucket for anything else and there was nothing else in it at the time.”

12 SPLASH! February-March 2014

Clinton Maynard in St George Hospital after the incident

His wife put the chlorine in the bucket and then went to put one of their children to bed. “About five minutes later I came and poured some pool water into the chlorine in the bucket and started mixing it. Within

about 30 seconds to 45 seconds there was an explosion, and then a series of explosions. “The blast was very loud and luckily our neighbours were next door. They ran over and hosed me off and got my clothes off me. They saved me from burns and saved my eyesight. They called an ambulance and the paramedics put an apparatus on my eyes and washed each eyeball with ten litres of water.” Maynard was rushed to hospital in critical condition and five others were also injured. “In all, six people were taken to hospital. I was critical, but also my neighbours, my wife, the fire-fighter who hosed me down and the paramedic all had to go to hospital. That’s how big it was. Even the dog had to go to the vet.” Maynard later saw an ophthalmologist who was surprised that he wasn’t blinded by the incident. In the end, his eyesight was okay. “But my lungs were damaged and that doesn’t reveal itself immediately, because the chlorine fumes affect the lungs a bit like a bruise. My lungs aren’t 100 per cent but there’s no long-term damage. I still have a cough but it will come good in a couple of months.

“I really want to get the message out there that these chemicals are dangerous and need to be handled with care.” Maynard stresses that he takes full responsibility and doesn’t blame anyone. “But people need to be told how to use it properly. There should be clear instructions about putting the water in the bucket first, and you should also get verbal advice from the pool shop at the time you buy the chlorine, pointing out the instructions and letting you know it can be very dangerous if it’s not done correctly.”

waves to spread the message of safe handling of pool chemcials. “I am very lucky to still have my eyesight and not to have permanent lung damage,” he says. “But others might not be so lucky.”

Advice on safe handling of chemicals

Gary Nye, President of the Swimming Pool Retail Association Australia (SPRAA) offers some general advice regarding pool chemical handling. • Chemicals can be dangerous goods and

“I am very lucky to still have my eyesight and not to have permanent lung damage. But others might not be so lucky.” The fire brigade took the bottle away and he can’t remember the exact brand of chlorine. Therefore he can’t check to prove he read the instructions properly, but from what he recalls, the instructions were pretty vague. He later checked the instructions on some chlorine packaging in a supermarket shelf, and says they didn’t have any warnings at all. The fire brigade did find some evidence of acid in the mix, but as stabilised chlorine has a cyanuric acid component, it may be a result of that. Maynard is a broadcaster for Sydney radio station 2UE, and has been using the air-

should be handled with care. • Always read the instructions on the packaging. • Always add chemicals to water, not water to the chemicals. This is because chlorine dust can blow back if water is poured into the chlorine, and that can be very dangerous, potentially permanently damaging your lungs. • Never use the same bucket for different chemicals. Have a different bucket for each chemical. • Never mix chemicals and never mix liquid chlorine with dry chlorine – that has the potential to cause an explosion.

Cleaning the art world As part of his Falling Back to Earth exhibition, Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang built a jungle waterhole at the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, complete with 99 life-sized animal replicas. After 18 months in planning and approvals, it took six weeks to construct and 250 metres of pipe to plumb. Redlands Pool Service has a contract to maintain all the water related exhibits at the gallery and Tom Stanley was charged with keeping the 250,000 litre waterhole clean. Because of the delicate nature of the installation, he had to be careful how he went about it. He sought the help of Maytronics who provided a battery-powered cordless M5 Liberty robot. Stanley controls the robot with the remote while walking through the exhibition and says the crystal-clear water clarity is testament to the Liberty’s dual-level filtration capabilities. The exhibition is on until May 11, 2014.

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February-March 2014

SPLASH!

news

Warranties

Qld home warranty expected to cover pools Steve Griffin has been appointed commissioner of Queensland’s new construction industry watchdog, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). It is expected the QBCC will bring swimming pool warranties under the Home Warranty Insurance Scheme as recommended by a government review, but no announcement to that effect has yet been made. Queensland Minister for Housing and Public Works Tim Mander says he is pleased to have someone of Griffin’s calibre in the role. “During his 30 year career, Mr Griffin has led significant regulatory reforms in a range of sectors with a particular focus on the building and construction industry,” he says.

Prior to taking on this role, Griﬃn’s career included being Deputy CEO of Service NSW, Deputy Commissioner of Fair Trading in NSW, Chair of Building Licensing Australasia from 2004 to 2007 and he was also on the Disciplinary Committee of the Building Professionals Board in New South Wales. “Mr Griﬃn is also a former detective in the NSW Police Force where he played a major role in high profile investigations into corruption and organised crime,” the Minister says. Adrian Hart, CEO of the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Queensland, says the formation of the new body means a key focus now must be on the recommendation that the existing pool and spa consumer protection scheme moves from

being an industry based and supplied scheme to the Home Warranty Insurance Scheme. “I am keen to meet with the new Commissioner to advance this recommendation from the review committee,” he says. “We want to see the transition of our industry’s pool and spa consumer protection program across to the more encompassing Home Warranty Protection Scheme be as seamless a process as possible for customers and members.” Hart says industry and consumer protection issues need to top the list of discussion points with the commissioner. “We are fielding questions now from customers and are keen to be able to report back on how the transition will be effected for current protection programs. We’re also eager for members to be able

to offer the new Home Warranty Insurance Scheme into the future.” He says the appointment of Griﬃn shows the minister’s determination to drive the reform agenda. “We congratulate Mr Griﬃn on his appointment. He comes to the newly created role with a solid background in regulatory reform and with a working knowledge of the sector. I am hopeful he will bring a new focus to industry reform and advancement. “We have always had an excellent working relationship with the former BSA which this body replaces and we’re keen to ensure that relationship is maintained and improved upon. The QBCC focus on consumer based outcomes sits well with SPASA members and our own approach.”

Training

Queensland traineeships declared The Queensland Apprenticeship and Traineeship Office (QATO) has declared traineeships for the following courses: • Certificate III in Swimming Pool and Spa Service • Certificate IV in Swimming Pool and Spa Service SPASA Qld has been petitioning the department and made application for user-choice funding to help offset training costs, and is awaiting confirmation of the outcome. If successful, the cost of the training delivery will be subsidised, and employers should be entitled to receive some level of incentive payment from the Federal Government to assist in the process of engaging a trainee.

Top five online news stories

Keep informed by subscribing to the free online newsletter. Backyard pool chemical explosion puts man in hospital Sydney man Clinton Maynard was hospitalised in a critical condition after an accident mixing chlorine for his backyard swimming pool. 14

SPLASH!

Trainees will be signed up by an Australian Apprenticeship Centre such as Busy at Work and training will be delivered by Traxion Training. Pool Shops and Service Technicians interested engaging a trainee should email Steve Coolahan at steve.coolahan@busyinc.com.au or call him on 0400 419 712 to discuss the process and what incentive payments may be available. Enquiries about the actual qualifications and training delivery should be directed to Wayne Bell (wayne. bell@traxiontraining.com.au or 0419 937 521), who can also assist experience practitioners obtain the qualifications through recognition of prior learning.

The most popular online news stories at splashmagazine.com.au were... World’s first open water inflatable park opens Gold Coast City Council has opened the Aquasplash Water Fun Park at Southport, featuring an array of Wibit inflatables.

February-March 2014

Cancelled Wet ‘n’ Wild party leads to resignation The head of security at Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney resigned amid revelations he awarded a security contract to a company he reportedly has strong links with.

Pool drownings jump in latest figures RLSS figures showed 43 people drowned in swimming pools compared with 22 in the previous period – a jump from 8% of the total to 15%.

Evolve buys Poolrite The Poolrite sale story was the most popular online story of 2013, and is still attracting interest.

exact micro 10

AdvAnced Photometer SyStem

Upcoming events 2014 Mar 8-9

Pool, Spa, Outdoor Consumer Show, Perth

Mar 11-14

Piscina Moscow, Russia

Mar 13-16

Aqua Salon, Moscow, Russia

Mar 14

SPASA Victoria Golf Day, Kingston Links

Mar 19

SPASA Alliance AGM, Sydney

Mar 19

SPASA SA AGM, Perth

Mar 25

SPASA WA Golf Day

Mar 28

SPASA Golf Classic, Sydney

May 12-14

Sauna & Spa & Pool China, Guangzhou, China

Apr 1-3

International Swimming Pool Sauna & Spa Expo, Beijing China

Apr 4

SPASA SA Golf Day

Apr 22-24

Piscine Middle East, Abu Dhabi, UAE

May 3-4

Brisbane consumer Pool Spa & Outdoor Living show

May 7-10

Turkey Pool Expo, Istanbul

May 13-14

AALARA Conference

Jun 14

SPASA Awards Night, Sydney

Jul 5-6

SPASA SA Consumer Pool and Spa Show, Adelaide

Jul 16

SPASA Welcome Drinks, SPLASH! on the Gold Coast

July 16-17

SPLASH! Pool and Spa Trade Show, Jupiters, Gold Coast

Jul 17

SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence, Gold Coast

Jul 17-18

WAHC Down Under

Jul 26

SPASA WA Awards Night

Aug 9-10

Winter Consumer Pool & Spa Show, Melbourne

Aug 22

SPASA Queensland Golf Day, Royal Pines

Aug 22

SPASA Queensland Awards Night

Aug 30

SPASA Victoria Awards Night, Melbourne

Sep 12

Bob Stanley Memorial Golf Day, Sydney

Sep 13-14

Consumer Pool and Spa Show, Perth

Nov 18-21

Piscine Global, Lyon, France

More details, dates and links are available at splashmagazine.com.au.

the first meter to read combined chlorine directly with 0.01 precision

Fill the cell with the water sample.

Dip the Exact strips into the cell.

Read the result.

NSW Qld vic SA WA NZ 02 9898 8686 07 3299 9900 03 9764 1211 08 8244 6000 08 9273 1900 09 525 7570

These dates are subject to change and should be checked with the relevant organisation. Please send calendar submissions to chrismaher@intermedia.com.au

February-March 2014 Exact Micro 10 270mmx90mm.indd 1

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Science

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Global news

Market research

Aussies prefer pool to beach The Swimart Summer Pool Owners’ Survey has found that a whopping 90 per cent of pool owners would rather swim in their pool than at the beach. The same percentage said that their pool has added value to their home. The survey polled pool owners around Australia and found that in terms of value, a pool can add an average of $30,000 to a property. “As a whole, Australia is a water-loving nation,” says Chris Fitzmaurice, Swimart’s Australasian manager. “And pool owners place a great deal of value on their pool, both in monetary terms and in how much enjoyment they get out of it.” PRD Nationwide research analyst Angus McLean says pool owners are spot on with their assessment. “Consensus amongst leading property valuation professionals is that a pool will add value if it is in proportion with the yard and does not overwhelm the garden,” he says. “A pool definitely adds appeal and more often than not people will pay extra for something with a pool. “Many pools are now almost an extension of the house, making them visible from living rooms to allow easier supervision of children. A well-designed pool will enhance the surrounding landscape as well as allow space for outdoor entertainment and turfed play area for young ones.” Respondents’ reasons for preferring the pool to the beach include the fact most believe their pool is

safer, more private and convenient than the beach and, as a bonus, has no crowds, sand or sharks. In terms of heating, 62 per cent of respondents said they do not have any form of heating for their pool, while 34 per cent have solar heating. Pool ownership seems to be hereditary, with nearly 70 per cent of respondents indicating they had a pool growing up, and another 13 per cent saying they learnt to swim in their backyard pool. The respondents mainly use their pools for relaxation, followed by family time, entertaining and fitness. There is still room for improvement in terms of having an environment-friendly pool: just over half of respondents said they made an effort to make their pool more energy eﬃcient and less chemical heavy by using solar powered pumps or low chlorine salt chlorinators. Salt chlorination remains dominant over traditional chlorine as the primary form of sanitisation, with 70 per cent of people indicating they used a salt sanitiser. The survey also asked for comments about their pool. Two very relevant answers were: “I have so many childhood memories from the pool I grew up in, hopefully it will now bring lots more new memories for my own children.” “[We love]...being able to use it whenever you like without having to travel to the public pool or drive to beach. Just sitting looking at the water is relaxing. We all love it!”

Standards

DRED up for comment The public comment period for draft DR AS/ NZS 4755.3.2 is now open. The draft standard covers demand response capabilities for devices controlling swimming pool pumps, among other things.

Go to the QuickLinks tab at splashmagazine. com.au to download the draft copy and for a link to the Standards Australia website where you can submit a comment if desired. The public comment period closes on Tuesday 25th March.

US-based international pool equipment supplier SR Smith has acquired FiberStars, best known for its fibre-optic lighting features for pools and spas. The products will be marketed under the brand SR Smith Lighting. SR Smith also recently bought Anti-Wave Australia. North America’s largest manufacturer of swimming pool components, Latham Pool Products, has bought Plastimayd, one of the US’s oldest vinyl liner manufacturers. It will now own brands Plastimayd, VynAll liners and CoverLogix safety covers. Questions are being asked following the release of a “redacted” report by the California state into a 2013 pool heater explosion at the La Cañada Flintridge Sport Chalet. A lawsuit has been filed by two employees who were injured in the explosion. The US Commerce Department has launched investigations into imported calcium hypochlorite from China, to discover if it is part of a dumping operation. The investigations are in response to a petition filed by Georgia-based Arch Chemicals. A six-year-old boy described as a natural swimmer, Palmer French, saved a two-year-old girl after she almost drowned in a Florida swimming pool. After she fell into the pool and sank to the bottom, French dived in and pulled her to the surface, where her mother took over the rescue.

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

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Giveaway

PSO Handbook Spa Tech Tip

What do the different modes on particular spa control panels mean? Standard (St, Std) – the spa will filter and maintain temperature (heat demand) at all times. Economy (Ec, Eco, Econ) – the spa will either filter at set times but only heat within filtration cycles, or on some controllers, heating will only occur if temperature drops by 11 degrees from a set point. This setting is designed to minimise running cost while maintaining some control over water temperature. Sleep (SL, Slp) – the spa will not run in heat demand during the hours set for Sleep mode. This is usually used to prevent annoyance from pump noise in the middle of the night. If you find a spa that is seemingly working correctly – but not at the set temperature – and the pump is NOT running, it’s likely that the controller is in either Economy or Sleep mode. There are some variations to functionality depending on make/model. Refer to spa control manual for information and mode setting access. Contact: Australian Spa Parts technical support 1300 735 025

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

The 2014 edition of the Pool & Spa Operator Handbook has been published by the US non-profit organisation, the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). It includes important updates, a new look and comes in both imperial and metric units. This fundamental training and reference manual is valued by operators, health oﬃcials, service technicians, retailers, property managers and manufacturers – who help keep pools safer – and open. SPLASH! has a copy of the PSO handbook to give away. All you have to do is Like the SPLASH Facebook page to be part of the competition. There will be more information in the free SPLASH! online newsletter. Go to splashmagazine.com.au to make sure you’re receiving the newsletter. For more information or to order a copy online, go to www.nspf.org. Accreditation

National licensing abandoned The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) decided in December to forgo the idea of uniform licensing for industry across the nation, announcing that the policy for a National Occupational Licensing System (NOLS) would no longer be pursued, and the National Occupational Licensing Authority (NOLA) would be wound down. One option up for consideration is an enhancement to the existing mutual recognition arrangements, which would operate in a similar way to the current driver’s licence framework. Essentially, State-issued licences would permit the bearer to undertake an equivalent scope of work in another jurisdiction. Meanwhile, SPRAA executive oﬃcer, Greg Every, says there will be no effect or impact on the Certificate III and IV courses. “NOLA had, as one of its aims, national licens-

ing of occupations such as plumbing/gasfitting and electricians. SPRAA supported national licensing for both these trades and made submissions to support our view,” he says. “The thing is, the various states had differing views on the need and timelines for national licensing and there was no universal push from the states to follow the federal drive that was occurring. There was never any push with NOLA to move into the educational sphere because there was no need – the Cert III and IV are already Nationally Recognised Qualifications. “With national qualifications such as these they can be taught anywhere in Australia and assessed by any Recognised Training Organisation (RTO) which has the qualifications ‘on scope’. By having a qualification on scope an RTO can assess Recognition of Prior Learning candidates, teach the subject and assess it,” he says.

Regulation

NCC to get overhaul Building ministers from all state and territory governments and the Commonwealth signed off on an ambitious project to improve the National Construction Code (NCC) which has the potential to reduce the cost of buildings in Australia by $780m each year, according to the Benefits of Building Regulation Reform report. The project will be driven by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). The NCC contains the technical building and plumbing standards for the design and construction of all

buildings and plumbing systems in Australia. ABCB chair John Thwaites says the project will enhance the performance requirements to quantify them and make them measureable. “This will provide greater certainty for the construction industry and make it easier and more cost effective for designers, builders and plumbers to meet the Code,” he says. The bulk of the reforms are estimated to take around three years to achieve but incremental changes will be made as they are quantified.

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Awards

Environmental Awards go digital Expo News Only one stand left! Interpoint Events has urged prospective exhibitors interested in SPLASH! on the Gold Coast to get in quickly as the July show is almost sold out. At the time of writing, only one stand remained unsold at the industry’s major national pool & spa trade show, which will be held on July 16-17, 2014 at Jupiters, Surfers Paradise. However, there is also some space available on the grassed area for products suitable for being outdoors amongst the elements, such as paving products and outdoor furniture. The Award-winning trade show attracts thousands of pool builders, retailers, technicians, specifiers, developers and aquatic facilities managers from all over Australia, Oceania and South East Asia. Contact Karen Jaques (02) 8586 6135 for more details. Genesis 3 proved popular at the 2013 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo in November last year at the Mandalay Bay Convention Centre in Las Vegas. With more than 130 attendees participating in the Basic Construction School, Perspective Drawing Workshop and three Design Schools offered, the classes were filled to capacity. G3 had also proved popular when they presented at SPLASH! on the Gold Coast in 2010.

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

The fourth edition of the SPLASH! Environmental Awards will be held at SPLASH! on the Gold Coast on July 17, 2014. It will be incorporated into the award night of nights, as part of the SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner, which will also incorporate the SPRAA Awards. This year, Intermedia has decided to accentuate the significance of the winners by only awarding two accolades: Most Environment Friendly Project and Most Environment Friendly Product. Products and projects that fit into the previous categories and subcategories will still be eligible to

enter, and will feed into the two awards. Any product that helps reduce energy consumption, water usage or chemical usage will be considered, whether for the residential market, commercial market or both. Any residential or commercial project that meets the criteria will be considered. In a departure from the previous years, all entries will be received online to streamline the entry and judging process. There will be more information in an upcoming online newsletter. Go to splashmagazine.com.au to ensure you are receiving the free newsletter. As in previous years, the awards will be sponsored by Foundation Sponsor, Sunbather.

Awards

SPRAA joins big awards night The Swimming Pool Retail Association Australia (SPRAA) has joined the excitement of SPLASH! on the Gold Coast by presenting five national retail awards at the inaugural SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner. The gala will be held on 17 July at the 2014 SPLASH! Pool & Spa Trade Show, and will now include 24 categories of SPASA Australia Awards, two categories of the SPLASH! Environ-

mental Awards and five SPRAA Awards. The SPRAA awards, which are only open to SPRAA members, are: National Pool Store of the Year; National Spa Retailer of the Year; Technician of the Year; Retail Salesperson of the Year; and Retail Supplier of the Year.

There is more information on the awards at splashmagazine.com.au.

Awards

Refugee contributes to Australia Clark Rubber has sponsored the Australia Day Council’s inaugural “New Australian of the Year” award, introduced by the Australia Day Council to recognise the contributions of migrants and refugees in Australia. The inaugural award was presented to former Bhutan refugee Parsuram Sharma-Luital for his volunteer and advocacy work on State and Federal migration polices, recognising his incredible achievements since adopting Australia as his home. Sharma-Luital delivered more than 50 significant community based projects in partnership with approximately 60 organisations for more than 20 diverse ethnic communities.

Melbourne, Deputy Lord Mayor Susan Riley presenting Parsuram Sharma-Luital with the award

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Rob Anderson with wife Judy

Industry moves

Anderson steps down from Poppits After an impressive career in the chemical industry spanning almost half a century, Rob Anderson is stepping down as general manager of Poppits. Waterco acquired Pool & Spa Poppits in 2012. Anderson played a huge role in developing the brand over the past decade, but now wants to focus on his personal life. “I really want to spend more time with my wife, Judy, plus my children and grandchildren, in addition to doing some travel,” he says. “I would also like to take this opportunity to reconnect with my local community.” Although he will be stepping down from full time work, he will still be involved in Poppits’ growth as a brand. Anderson has extensive experience in the chemicals industry. Prior to purchasing the Pool

Poppits business in 2002, he worked for W J Manufacturing in Sydney for two years, spent 26 years with the Dow Chemical Company (where he worked across 16 countries in sales and marketing), and 10 years with Calman in sales and general management. Over the course of his career, he worked hard to promote healthier alternatives to chlorine in the pool and spa industry. “To have played a part in the change to chlorine free bathing has been very satisfying,” says Anderson. “I am rather passionate about protecting people from things that can harm their health, and I am particularly concerned about addressing asthma and allergies.” Meanwhile, Waterco has launched a dedicated Poppits website at www.poolpoppits.com.au.

Obituary

Queensland icon revolutionised service David Lovelock has been described as one of the “history makers” of the swimming pool and spa industry. In 1970 he started selling pool filters – a role that would eventually lead him to owning one of the largest pool businesses in Australia. In 1972 he opened the PoolCity pool shop at Taringa in Brisbane’s west, and began to expand the service side of the Queensland industry. Initially, he ran his business with a manager in Brisbane, as he lived in Sydney as national sales manager for Purex. In 1982, Lovelock formed a partnership with Don Bullock, combining retailing with wholesaling and manufacturing. Soon they had

nine company-owned stores and six franchised outlets. By 1988 they had become the largest pool chain in Australia, with shops stretching from Tweed Heads to Cairns. The business was eventually picked up by John Dick’s Poolstore International. In his youth he experienced the excitement of the America’s Cup first hand, and escorted the Dame Pattie home on a cargo ship. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2008 but he didn’t let that interfere with his enjoyment of life. Last August he journeyed to a remote river in the Gulf of Carpentaria with partner Maureen and at last fulfilled his ambition of catching a metre-long barramundi.

After 30 years in the role, Rob Wild has stepped down as CEO of Cordell Information, supplier of building and construction information including collating pool DA data. He has been replaced by former Cordell national sales manager, Michael Hughes as CEO designate, who will take on formal tenure in the role on March 31, 2014. Anthony Ramsay is back at Pool Systems as Commercial Manager, after a recent stint at Maytronics. Glasgow-based international manufacturer of UV and ozone water treatment systems, Triogen, has appointed qualified electrician, draughtsman and design engineer Tom Kelly as the new managing director. He succeeds Jim Wheatley, founder of the company, who retired after more than 30 years at the helm. There have been a number of sad passings recently. Ian McDonald, founder of St Peters Pools & Spas in South Australia passed away in November after a lengthy battle with cancer. Also in November, world champion water skier Sarah Teelow died after a high-speed fall in the Bridge-to-Bridge race on the Hawkesbury River, north of Sydney. She was the sister of Jarrod and daughter of Tania and Chris Teelow, who operate Teelow Pools in Dubbo. SPLASH! offers condolences to all friends and family.

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

news

Industry moves

New GM for Anti Wave Australia In Brief Adelaide-based national tile retailer Beaumont Tiles is targeting Sydney as part of its $24 million national growth strategy. It plans to open 12 stores across NSW over the next 12 months. Currently it has five outlets in the Western Suburbs but plans to open stores on the North Shore, northern beaches, Inner West and south east regions of Sydney. It aims to have 30 additional outlets by the end of 2014, and is currently in negotiations over a handful of stores in Queensland and Victoria. A new Bathurst outlet recently became the company’s 95th store. French research has supposedly identified the cause of a current European phenomenon. Apparently, bees have been found hovering over a number of saltwater swimming pools. Live Science reports that researcher Martin Giurfa, the director of the Research Center on Animal Cognition at the University of Toulouse, has discovered that bees have taste receptors on their feet that are so sensitive to salt, that they even dwarf the bees’ capacity to taste sugar. SPASA Victoria has announced a milestone, as its membership has hit 300 members for the first time in the association’s 52 year history, following three years of sustained growth and high member retention.

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Keith Hall

SR Smith has named Keith Hall as the new general manager of its Anti Wave Australia business. Hall brings many years of senior management and business development experience to this new position. Prior to joining SR Smith Australia, he enjoyed more than 25 years of service with Pentair and most recently with Pool Systems. In November 2013, SR Smith acquired the assets of Anti Wave Australia and established SRS Australia Pty Ltd. The purchase of Anti Wave Australia brought SR Smith a portfolio of competitive swimming products under the Anti

Wave brand including starting blocks, water polo goals, racing lane lines, storage reels and complementary accessories, which the company will market and sell in Australia. In addition, SR Smith plans to expand into the Australian market with its current family of products including LED pool lighting, slides, diving boards, pool games, rails, ladders, lifeguard chairs, starting platforms, and pool access lifts. The Australian business is trading as SRS Australia Pty Ltd and operates out of the existing Anti Wave manufacturing and distribution facility in Ipswich, Queensland.

Acquisition

Hayward buys Poolvergnuegen Global pool equipment manufacturer Hayward Industries has acquired Poolvergnuegen, a leading manufacturer and marketer of pool cleaners, including The PoolCleaner brand. Hayward CEO Robert Davis says they are delighted to acquire Poolvergnuegen. “The company has developed a wonderful business with a strong presence in the western US and certain international markets,” he says. “Outstanding technology, robust and reliable prod-

ucts, together with a clear customer focus has enabled Poolvergnuegen to grow into a leading company in the pool cleaner category. The addition of Poolvergnuegen products is highly complementary and synergistic to Hayward’s product portfolio and global footprint, offering our customers greater choice and value.” Davis says the transaction supports Hayward’s long term strategic development plan for expanding globally while strengthening its product line,

especially in its core space of automatic pool cleaners. “Poolvergnuegen and its brand The PoolCleaner are recognised for their technology, quality and innovation. We believe that by combining resources, expertise and technology we will see further strengthening of the brand and accelerated growth with our joint customer base.” The PoolCleaner comes as a two-wheel or four-wheel suction cleaner, as well as a four-wheel pressure cleaner.

Service

Swimart launches mobile service Australasian pool and spa specialist group Swimart is launching a dedicated mobile franchise network – a move it describes as a logical next step for the business. Initially the franchise group will focus on rural and regional areas, based on increased interest in the brand from both consumers and potential franchisees in in those areas. “We currently have over 70 stores and a fleet of more than 220 mobile service vans, which are a vital part of our retail business. We provide services around metropolitan, suburban and regional areas in Australia and New Zealand, so creating a dedicated mobile franchise network will fill obvious gaps in the market,” says Chris Fitzmaurice, Swimart’s Australasian manager.

It will cost around $85,000 to establish a mobile Swimart franchise, which includes tools, technology, extensive training, initial marketing campaigns, as well as a list of potential customers. In addition, Swimart has negotiated fleet discounts with Hyundai and Toyota for suitable vehicles, and to ensure brand consistency, the group has created a van fit out manual, which provides information on livery, fitting out a vehicle, plus the storage of tools, chemicals and equipment. Swimart has also enhanced its technology offerings, implementing a cloud-based operating system which will enable franchisees to access data in real time while in the field and create invoices on the spot. Contact: www.swimart.com.au

news

Safety

In Brief Pentair is changing the place of incorporation of its publicly-traded parent company from Switzerland to Ireland. Pending shareholder approval, Pentair expects the change of incorporation location to be effective as soon as practicable following the merger of Pentair, the current Swiss publicly-traded parent company, into a newly-formed Irish company named Pentair plc. Pentair plc will then become the publicly-traded parent company of Pentair and its subsidiaries with its tax residency in the UK. Meanwhile, Pentair has launched a new website for Aquatic Systems Australia New Zealand. It is a complete reference for all Pentair pool products and includes the latest product information such as owner’s manuals, brochures, specifications and spare parts. It also links to the US-based on-line training site Pentair University and the technical forum PoolFYI. To visit the website go to: www. pentairpool.com.au Senior government executive Prue Digby is now acting CEO of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) following Joe Dimasi stepping down for personal reasons. Meanwhile, the VBA recently issued an emergency order to a Melbourne homeowner to immediately fence their pool. The VBA deemed urgent action was required because the pool was in an estate where many young families live, and made contractors immediately install a temporary barrier.

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Paddling pool rules come into effect As mentioned previously in SPLASH!, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), in partnership with state and territory consumer protection agencies, will be enforcing a new mandatory safety standard for portable pools and their retail packaging (including mandatory safety warnings) from March 2014. There is further information at the QuickLinks tab at splashmagazine.com.au.

In New Zealand

Meanwhile in New Zealand, Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson has clarified new rules around the fencing of paddling pools. He says the new NZ law would mean any pool, including portable and inflatable pools where the water is more than 30 centimetres deep, won’t be allowed to stay as a permanent fixture. “You can leave it up for a week, you can have it up for a month, you can take it to the beach, you can put it up in the backyard,” he says. “But we’re just saying please don’t leave a more than 300mm portable pool up on an on-going basis. Empty it and fill it up again when you want to use it.” He made the comments while announcing changes to the 1987 Fencing of Swimming Pools Act which, if passed next year, will introduce a new

enforcement regime, including $500 fines for those who don’t fence off their pools properly. The new law will mean any pool where the water is more than 30cm deep – even portable and inflatable – will need to be fenced off if they are left up permanently. Under current laws, pools deeper than 40cm have to be fenced, but oﬃcials say the requirements have not been clear and are not happening in many cases. The changes to the NZ Act will: • Provide clearer requirements for restricting access to swimming pools • Require councils to inspect swimming pools at least every five years • Provide that child-resistant spa pools adequately restrict access • Require pool retailers to inform buyers of their safety obligations • Exempt portable pools shallower than 300mm • Exempt garden ponds and stormwater detention ponds. For more information visit: www.dbh.govt.nz or go to splashmagazine.com.au for a QuickLink.

Expos

Record brings crowd to Melbourne show Australian ultra-marathon swimmer Chloë McCardel successfully set a world-first record by swimming non-stop for 16 hours at the SPASA Victoria consumer Pool & Spa + Outdoor Living Expo. The excitement of her attempt helped draw an estimated 17,000 consumers to the show. She

Chloe McCardel looks fresh as ever after swimming for 16 hours straight

completed the swim in a four-metre by two-metre swim spa, swimming a distance equivalent to one-and-a-half crossings of the English Channel. She was restrained by a tether and swam against the current of the swim jets. McCardel was sponsored by Leisurescape Spas and The Pool Enclosure Company.

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Barrier to

common sense

By Cal Stanley

here is a possibility that by the time this article is published, its subject matter will have been resolved to the betterment of the industry in NSW. I sincerely hope that is the case but I won’t be holding my breath waiting for it. This subject is a classic case of bureaucracy gone mad to the point where the bureaucrats can’t seem to find a way out even though it is staring them in the face. In 2012 when the current edition of AS1926.1 Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools was being finalised, the CS-034 Committee responsible for it decided to remove the ambiguity that existed in parts of NSW concerning the use of an out of ground wall of a pool as a safety barrier. Why was this done? Because for quite some years the NSW pool barrier rules required the installation of a four-sided barrier around all “above ground pools”, even though they may have been installed on flat level ground with all of the walls not less than 1200 mm in height. It has also been stated by officials in NSW that the State has a policy of “four-sided fencing for all pools” even though this term does not appear in their Act or the Regulations. So a number of councils used this premise to require that an owner with an “out of ground” pool wall install a normal pool fence in front of this wall regardless of its height – a substantial waste of money for zero added protection. Even though the Standard has always permitted the 1200mm high walls of above ground pools to act as a compliant barrier, I think we all know that in many instances that barrier is compromised by level changes, decking, equipment too close to the pool and of course the access ladder being left in position, etc. So I may have some sympathy for 28

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

the NSW stance on these pools even though the rest of the country disagrees. AS1926.1 – 2012 now includes: “2.5.3 Out-of-ground pool walls: Out-of-ground walls of pools that comply with the requirements of a barrier in this Standard shall be considered an eﬀective barrier.” This Clause was deliberately inserted to differentiate such barriers from those of “above ground pools”. Most of the out of ground walls of pools I am referring to are on high-end concrete pools designed to take advantage of sloping sites and where the top of one or more of the walls is at least 1200mm above the ground. Such walls having all the characteristics of a compliant retaining wall and in some cases – at three metres to five metres above ground – are in fact the safest pool barriers of all. So why, when they knew that the Standard was to be referenced in the Building Code of Australia (BCA), did someone in the NSW Department of Local Government (DLG) – who refuses to be identified and who ignored an undertaking by all states to cease making new BCA variations – request that a state variation be inserted using another term the industry had not heard of. The BCA now applies the Standard “subject to the walls of out of ground pools not being considered to be effective barriers”. So now we have “out of ground pools”. They must be built entirely on supporting columns I suppose and while I am sure some such pools have been constructed, they are as scarce as hens’ teeth and would be even safer. The farce that applied selectively in a few local authorities now applies state-wide to the detriment of pool builders and their customers. We now have the bureaucracy applying this BCA variation to the walls of pools that are essentially in-ground pools with one or

two walls out of the ground, making for an unholy row between government and the industry in NSW. Now the DLG, having recognised they may have made a right royal stuff up, are at last seeking ways to make things right. A sensible person would think the easiest way to do this would be to remove the BCA variation. It could be all over in an instant. But no, the DLG likes to do things the hard way. Industry has been trying to reach an accommodation with the DLG since May 2013 and while the DLG is talking, it is considering allowing councils to approve such walls of out of ground pools if they are of a mind to do so, without removing the offending BCA variation. The approval of every other permitted barrier in the Standard is dependent upon that barrier complying with or exceeding dimensional and/or detailed physical details that leave nothing to the interpretation of council officers, certifiers and inspectors. Yet the DLG seems to be drafting amendment clauses to the Regulations so that an out of ground pool wall “may” be considered an effective barrier. Conversely that means it “may not” be considered effective, and who decides this? Some faceless council bureaucrat intent on covering his backside and evading the slightest scent of liability even though the Act exempts them from any such thing. I often used to rail against governments because every year, both State and Federal parliaments pass new laws that limit our freedoms more and more, yet they almost never repeal any of the old ones. This exercise is just more of the same. I’m going downstairs to watch some more of those re-runs of Yes Minister on Foxtel. At least they have some humour in them! n

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Elena stars in Russian media A ustralian Innovative Systems (AIS) chief executive officer Elena Gosse is making waves in the country of her birth, courtesy of an article in the Russian version of Forbes. Gosse’s remarkable story has made an impression on the magazine’s editors, and they featured her extensively in an article about successful expatriate Russian women. She rose from being a single mother of two girls – one with cerebral palsy – in Sakhalin, Russia to be the chief executive officer of a multi-million dollar globally successful Australian company employing 60 people. “Coming to Australia was like starting a new life, a blank canvas where with the right approach and attitude anything is possible,” she says. Her story starts with her completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Theatre) in Volgograd, Russia, marrying an army officer and moving to Sakhalin. There, she directed creative events, sang at local restaurants and even hosted a television show. But by the age of 29, her marriage had collapsed and she found herself a single mother of two girls. Then she met Kerry Gosse – who is himself a Russian Australian – who was in Sakhalin for a business trip. Within six months they were married and living in Australia with her children, after Kerry convinced her Australia offered better opportunities than Russia. To acclimatise to her new country, she enrolled a local college: first to learn English, then to study office administration and finally to gain a Bachelor of Business (Accounting). After two years of studying, Elena convinced her husband to give her a job. At that time, Kerry’s business was in its early stages, having just bought the chlorinator company for $100,000, and manufacturing them with three employees in a small factory. But as a chemical engineer with knowledge of the industry, he saw potential. In her new position, Elena also saw potential – for improvements in business practices. However this did not sit well with her colleagues who labelled her the “KGB.” But she turned the situation around by humorously embracing the moniker – even getting a KGB decal for her car. After performing an accounts audit, she noticed that sales dropped during autumn and winter. She suggested that in order avoid this seasonal slump; they should embrace the northern hemisphere summer and expand their business to Europe, Russia and the USA. In her search for potential clients, she started participating in international trade exhibitions and awards. The Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) assisted in establishing connections with European distributors. “In 1996 the European market knew very little about chlorine generators. There they just poured the chlorine straight into their pools,” says Gosse. Starting with the Canary Islands, they moved into the European market through commercial chlorine generators for hotels.

“By 1997 these generators were developed and the number of orders grew. We seized the opportunity,” she says. They built a new factory, and in 2002 another one. Today, AIS owns three factories with a total surface area of 3500 square metres, employs 60 people, and its generators are sold in 59 countries. All production is developed and manufactured in Australia. By 2007, 70 per cent of the company’s sales went to Europe. With the help of their new chemical engineers, the company excelled in R&D, producing innovative concepts such as Ecoline, a chlorine generator capable of producing chlorine in fresh water, and Mineral Chlor, which works in mineral water and is used in the spa industry. The company won two of the most prestigious awards for business innovation, the Stevie and GAIA Awards in 2009, and the Most Environment-Friendly Sanitisation Product Award at the 2010 SPLASH! Environmental Awards.

Elena Gosse, CEO of AIS

Coming to Australia was like starting a new life, a blank canvas where with the right approach and attitude anything is possible A couple of years ago, Kerry announced his semi-retirement. These days his focus is on product development, leaving the business side of things to Elena. In 2012, AIS celebrated its 20th anniversary with a net profit of 30 per cent. Gosse is also proud of her two amazing daughters who are now both happily married and both successful in their own way. Her younger daughter, in spite of the Sakhalin doctors’ prognoses, not only learned to walk, but now drives a car and has even started her own design business for invitations and greeting cards. n Contact: www.aiswater.com.au

Elena Gosse at an AIS manufacturing facility in Queensland

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1300 652 076 www.enviraďŹ&#x201A;o.com.au

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The toughest game of all by divers during the 1960s in Germany, initially calling it the “Cologne Discipline” and later underwater polo. Basically, six players on each team fight underwater over a negatively buoyant water polo sized ball, and points are scored by getting it into a metal basket at either end of the pool. Australia has yet to compete in the international titles, but the time might be near at hand. If you’re interested in giving underwater rugby a go, contact one of the clubs on the website. These images show the University of New South Wales competition and were taken by Wilson Zhang (winkstudio.sg). Contacts: auf.com.au; uwrugby.wordpress.com

Photography by Wilson Zhang

s this the world’s toughest game? It would be hard to argue it’s not – but for the competitors, it seems to be a lot of fun as well. Water polo is renowned as a gruelling sport that requires lungs like bellows, long muscles and ironclad swimwear. Rugby (either league or union) is one of the toughest sports there is – a full on armour-free collision-fest. Combine the two and you’ve got the makings of a game where only the fittest, bravest and strongest can prosper: underwater rugby. It’s also been described as being like “wrestling in outer space”. Although humans have been playing underwater games since we learned to swim and hold our breaths, the particular rules of underwater rugby were developed

February-March 2014

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Modern methods for keeping your pool clean In-floor cleaning is considered standard in Out from the Blue’s pools

The PCC-2000 pushes debris to a “collection zone”

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f you ask certain homeowners why they don’t have a swimming pool, the answer is often: I couldn’t stand cleaning it all day. People want a pool to swim in, to enjoy. They want it to be a glorious addition to their home and their lifestyle, not an added chore. Of course, those people need to be educated about the cleaning options available to the modern pool owner. And those options are becoming more impressive than ever. And while no pool can ever be maintenance free, advances in technology and design mean a pool owner can do very little and still have a beautifully clean swimming pool.

In-floor cleaning

The most convenient cleaning method is to have the system actually built right into the swimming pool itself.

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There are many upsides to this form of pool cleaning: convenience, improved circulation, more even distribution of chemicals and a better spread of warm water, if the pool is heated. However, it comes with a price tag. For basic swimming pools it might take a bit of salesmanship to get the customer interested in an in-floor system, but for high end pools, the sell is much easier. Gary Kilworth is the managing director of celebrated Melbourne pool design and construction company, Out from the Blue. In-floor cleaning is considered standard in his pools. “Any discerning client – everyone really – wants in-floor cleaning. The question is whether or not it fits with their budget,” says Kilworth. “I’ve been able to sell those systems for 15 years and we currently install them on just about every pool – I can count the clients on one hand who don’t go ahead with it, and even then it’s only because of budgetary considerations.” One of his pools will cost between $7000 to about $13,000 extra for in-floor cleaning, but Kilworth doesn’t consider it expensive in terms of what you get for the money. “I relate it to ABS braking in cars,” he says. “It’s revolutionised the pool industry. So the cost is outweighed by the efficiency of the system. Convenience is the driver – but unknowingly they get better heat

Lovibond® Water Testing Tintometer® Group Gary Kilworth is a staunch advocate of in-floor cleaning and circulation systems. “It’s part and parcel of what we do today,” he says

distribution and chemical distribution and the pool is generally just easier to look after.” Kilworth says that while no pool could ever be considered maintenance-free, the hassle is reduced to a bare minimum. “In terms of cleaning you’d have to empty the basket where it collects the leaves. And that’s it. It runs in collaboration with the filtration system and is very simple to use.” The question for some pool builders is not how little of a hassle is it for the owners, but how much of a hassle is it for them. Kilworth says they shouldn’t be worried. “I don’t consider them difficult to install,” he says. “It’s part and parcel of what we do today. Gone are the days of a two-pipe or even a three-pipe swimming pool. I’ve been building pools for 17 years and for 15 years it’s been the norm.” Kilworth says that pressure testing and quality control are key. “Make sure you have failsafe methods of installing your plumbing in new swimming pools. Like all plumbing, if you have long lengths of run will lose you efficiency; so upsizing pipework diameters will certainly help with that.” Kilworth is a staunch advocate of the Paramount systems. “I use the Paramount PCC-2000, but Paramount have a range of products and I’d recommend anything they get behind; their service is impeccable even though they’re overseas, and they stand behind their product and are extremely proud of it and confident in it. And they are also very vigilant in protecting their patents.” As the system incorporates suction outlets, it needs to be compliant with the new Australian safety standards. “The system is compliant with the updated AS1926.3,” Kilworth says. “In fact, the MDX and SDX supersede those standards by also complying with the US VGB Act. You’ve still got to have two suctions, and you do. The SDX is the wall mounted suction, and the MDX is on the floor. It’s impossible to block both at the same time. “I’m a firm believer in the system. I think every pool should have one.”

Becoming a dealer/builder

In Australia, the system is supplied to concrete pool builders through Pool-Water Products (PWP). (See below for fibreglass installations.) PWP has been in the swimming pool and spa industry for nearly 40 years and has been supplying Paramount in-floor cleaning systems in Australia for 20 years. Rohan Beasley, PWP General Manager, says there are many thousands of these systems installed throughout Australia and more and more people are investing in them. The Paramount system operates through a series of popup nozzles, strategically located in the floor of the pool, pushing debris to a collection point at the deep end of the pool. The debris is then removed through a collection system and the water is filtered clean before returning to the pool. The system cleans all interior surfaces including steps, benches, spas, swimouts, roller cover pits and even negative edge troughs. As well as cleaning the pool, the system improves circulation of chemicals and heat, helping reduce running costs. “It’s extremely quiet when operating, there are no unsightly hoses on the surface or surrounds of the pool, it’s safe to swim in the pool when it’s operating and it’s virtually unnoticeable,” Beasley says.

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Up to 90 per cent of Compass Pools in some markets are sold with the Vantage in-floor system

He says that they have been recently been combining the system with Pentair IntelliFlo variable speed pumps and have been achieving great results. Beasley says they focus on automation for swimming pools to make the experience of owning the swimming pool a much more pleasant one – with the aim of people enjoying their pools rather than becoming a slave to it. “We also focus on the pool builder who is interested in providing their clients with a product they will enjoy for many, many years. We only supply Paramount infloor cleaning and circulation systems to pool builders who are accredited Paramount Licenced Dealers.” The process starts with the pool builder providing PWP with an engineering plan of the pool. “We then custom design a system using AutoCAD to place the popup nozzles and debris removal systems strategically throughout the swimming pool and spa to achieve the best cleaning and circulation outcome. The pool builder then installs the system as per the AutoCAD plan prior to the concrete being poured.”

Fibreglass and composite pools

In-floor cleaning systems are also available for fibreglass pools through Waterline Pool Innovations, the sole distributor in Australia and New Zealand of Paramount in-floor systems designed for use in fibreglass and composite pools. Waterline technical services manager Scott Mewett says they chose Phoenix Arizona-based Paramount because the company is the largest and most successful in-floor systems company in the world. “Paramount in-floor systems are the most widely used and respected in-floor systems in the North American, European and Australasian pool marketplaces,” he says. Waterline’s largest customer in Australia and New Zealand is the Compass Pools Group, and together with Compass, they have been installing the Paramount Vantage in-floor system in fibreglass composite pools

for almost 20 years. During this time, Waterline has supplied more than 10,000 new in-floor systems. Mewett says the Vantage is a hybrid Paramount system – the equivalent of Paramount’s PCC-2000 system for concrete pools distributed by PWP. It was developed as a collaborative Australian R&D initiative between Paramount and Compass in the mid-90s, resulting in the first in-floor system specifically designed for fibreglass composite pools. Like the PCC-2000, the Vantage is an “organised zone” system, whereby the popup rotating nozzles are orchestrated to move dirt and debris from the shallow end to the deep end, and then into the collection zone where it is removed by a fixed head and state-of-theart debris removal drain, Paramount’s patented MDX R3 main drain. Mewett says some other in-floor systems use the less efficient “agitation” method, where dirt and debris is agitated into suspension until it is removed by one of several different styles of drain, including the skimmer box. David Paine is Compass Pools representative in Newcastle,

The Vantage system is designed specifically for installation in fibreglass and composite pool shells

Rotating popup nozzles are used to move the debris to the collection point

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and he says that 90 per cent of the pools he has sold over the past eight years have included the Vantage system. “There are so many people who own this product and are passionate about it and tell their friends about it,” he says. “Regarding the cost, yes it is a bit of a hurdle but it’s becoming less of an issue as time goes on. We have some compelling reasons for the end user to buy it, and being a composite fibreglass pool, we believe it’s better value than a concrete pool equivalent. Our composite pools are designed to have the system installed – the recessed area is in the pool shell – so there is a very consistent result. “This would be one of the most trusted systems I’ve worked with. We don’t need to advertise in Newcastle – it’s all word of mouth – we have so many people telling their friends and family. It’s gold.” The Venturi nozzles behind Cooke’s QuikClean Xtreme system

Venturi innovation

An Australian in-floor innovation is starting to gain traction in the market: the QuikClean Xtreme system from Cooke Industries. Cliff Cooke, managing director of Cooke Industries, says there are many advantages to in-floor cleaning systems. “They are the top of the range option for pool cleaning,” says Cooke. “They can be installed to work automatically and are ideal for those who want a great looking pool without the burden of manual cleaning or lifting automated cleaners in and out of their pool.

“Reputable in-floor cleaning systems are computer designed and installed by accredited builders to ensure each system cleans effectively and thoroughly,” he says. “As with all technology, in-floor systems have improved dramatically in recent years. The advent of energy-efficient pumps has allowed venturi technology to play a more significant role in the design of an in-floor system.” Cooke says that venturi heads and venturi skimmers are at the forefront of innovation in this area. “They can increase the cleaning area by 33 per cent and lower energy costs at the same time. Venturi technology will create more opportunities for in-floor cleaning as these systems improve long-term value and broaden market appeal.” As mentioned above, cost is the big differentiator when it comes to in-floor cleaning. “Extensive work goes into the installation of in-floor cleaning systems,” says Cooke. “There are the drains, cleaning heads, valves, etcetera, as well as additional plumbing and site preparation.” Altogether, this can add between $6,500 and $14,000 to the price of a pool. However, Cooke suggests that customers who focus too heavily on the upfront price are often left disappointed. “Pool owners who invest in in-floor cleaning systems reap significant benefits throughout the life of their

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February-March 2014

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pool. The lifetime warranties which support reputable in-floor cleaning systems ensure the amortised cost over a 15 year period is on par with robotic cleaners and other alternatives.” Cooke reiterates one of the key advantages of an in-floor cleaning system: superior water circulation, leading to healthier water through improved chemical efficiency, more thorough filtration and more even heat distribution. “Pools with in-floor cleaning reduce algal growth and allow chemical treatments to work more effectively, thus saving time and money by eliminating excess chemical applications,” he says. Cooke says that historically, in-floor cleaning systems had been expensive to operate, with many using two pumps. However, new pump technology means they can now operate with a single pump to clean an average- to large-sized pool. “The QuikClean Xtreme system is one such example,” he says. “QuikClean Xtreme uses a venturi skimmer and venturi heads to wind down power usage while simultaneously improving the effectiveness of the cleaning cycle and the circulation. “The in-floor system is cleaning when the pump and filter are operating, and when optimal installation techniques are combined with energy-efficient pumps, the cost of operating in-floor cleaning systems is comparable to a standard pool pump and filter.”

Portable cleaners

While it is clear that in-floor cleaning represents excellent value for money, the fact is that most pool owners – especially in the mid and lower end of the market – still opt for the less expensive option of portable cleaners. Also, because in-floor cleaning systems are built into the swimming pools, they can’t be retrofitted. So existing pool owners only have the option of portable automatic cleaners, or doing it themselves manually. In the automatic portable market there are three types of cleaners. Suction cleaners are powered by the force generated by the suction outlet in the skimmer box, pressure cleaners are powered by a separate dedicated return line, while robotic cleaners run on electricity. Each has their pros and cons.

The QuickSkim venturipowered automatic skimmer, part of the Cooke Industries QuickClean system

Zodiac cleaners

Jonas Ryberg from Zodiac has offered a quick rundown of the three categories. • Suction cleaners: Ryberg says that suction cleaners are the best for picking up debris such as dust, silt and sand. In the disc suction cleaner subcategory, Zodiac has the T5 Duo and G2. Zodiac’s new MX6 is designed to pick up the same debris as the disc cleaners, plus small leaves, with the added advantage of providing greater pool coverage and the ability to

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Zodiac’s T5 disc suction cleaner

Zodiac’s MX8 suction cleaner

Zodiac’s V4 robotic cleaner

get out of some of the tight spots that some disc cleaners struggle with. The MX8 is the top of the range with its ability to pick up leaves, some plant matter, and small insects along with smaller debris. • Pressure cleaners: Pressure cleaners still provide the best cleaning solution in areas with heavy leaf litter and larger debris. They have the ability to pick up a wide variety of debris, from dust to large leaves. However, they do require dedicated return lines and mostly operate with a dedicated booster pump. Once pool owners install a pressure cleaner, they rarely change to another form of cleaner. • Robotic cleaners: Robots are best suited to pools with medium to heavy debris such as plant matter, insects, twigs and large leaves. They provide the best pool coverage and come equipped with the most user-friendly benefits of any cleaners on the market. In order for very small debris such as dust to be captured, he recommends consumers run their filter at the same time as the cleaner, using the seven-day timer feature. Using filter canisters below the recommended 200 microns can hinder the cleaner’s performance. Zodiac has a comprehensive range of robotic cleaners, with the latest addition V4 4WD and upgraded V3 4WD MKII.

Suction cleaners

The Sprinta is an Australian-owned suction cleaner, designed and manufactured by the Klever Kleena Company

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The Sherwood Overseas Company distributes Kreepy Krauly, Klever Kleaner and Sprinta cleaners. Andrew Jackson, Sherwood’s executive director, says the flow rate is an important consideration. “Flow rate and circulation are the key factors which measure how efficiently the filtration system operates. So a pool cleaner with a high flow rate that improves water circulation at a lower pump speed is an important consideration for pool owners to maximise energy savings and pool cleaning efficiency,” he says. The normal filter operation simply recirculates the warmer surface water through the simmer box. Jackson says that of the portable cleaners, suction cleaners make the most significant impact on water circulation by drawing water through the filtration system from the entire pool. “The number of hours the system has to run to filter the required volume of water to clean a pool is largely governed by the flow rate,” he says. “A suction pool cleaner with minimum flow restriction provides shorter

filtering times and maximises the volume of water through the system resulting in a cleaner pool.” Sprinta is an Australian-owned suction cleaner, designed and manufactured by the Klever Kleena Company. “Sprinta is a highly efficient suction pool cleaner because of its reduced flow restriction and speedy coverage of the pool floor and walls,” he says. “It also offers energy savings by being able operate on lower settings and with variable speed pumps.” Another issue to consider with pool cleaners is cost, of course, and also the cost of spares. John Griffin from Pool Ranger says that the biggest drawback in the sale of automatic pool cleaners in the Australian market is the retail cost of the products and spare parts. He says his Pool Rover ST addresses both these factors through the design, presentation and very competitive pricing of the product. The Pool Rover ST was designed with three factors in mind, namely to produce a pool cleaner with a minimum of components, to operate quietly on a low water flow rate and to reach the consumer at an economical price. The suction cleaner has a unique single-piece moulded body with ten components – and only one of them is a moving part. The simplicity of the design and its ability to be used on all pool surfaces offers flexibility to the pool owner. The quietness of the pool cleaner is also a very important feature. The Pool Rover ST is supplied with 10 metres of sectioned hoses and an in-line relief valve, which makes it very easy to install. Pool Ranger has established a network of distributors in all eastern states and is beginning to market to trade and consumers. The company has prepared an in-store counter display with supporting posters and brochures for the pool shop retailer and will shortly commence a trade awareness program through direct mail and trade publications. Following that will be a program of co-operative advertising with selected dealers and distributors to the pool owner, through regional and state-wide media. In more news on the pool cleaner front, Hayward Industries has just bought Poolvergnuegen, the company that manufactures and markets The PoolCleaner brand. The PoolCleaner comes as a two-wheel or four-wheel suction cleaner, as well as a four-wheel pressure cleaner. There is more on this acquisition in the news section on page 24.

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The wall climbing ability of the Dolphin Supreme

Pressure cleaners

Jet-Vac is the only Australian-made pressure cleaner

The PoolCleaner is now owned by Hayward

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There is only one pressure cleaner made in Australia – the Jet-Vac by Aqua-Quip. As pressure cleaners utilise their own dedicated return line, propulsion and cleaning are achieved entirely by the means of jets of water. The wheels are free-spinning and not connected to turbines, drive belts or gears. As it’s driven by its own booster pump and doesn’t rely on suction through the filter, it can remain in the pool constantly without the need for removal and redeployment. However, it can easily be removed by a simple twist of the Quick Disconnect at the pool wall. Its forward/reverse cycles provide complete pool coverage without getting stuck in corners. The cleaner is famous for its “deep throat”. It has the largest intake of all portable pool cleaners and can pick up sand, large leaves, twigs – even golf balls. Its large bag compacts up to 3.5 litres of rubbish. Jet-Vac can clean a standard-size pool within two hours, keeping running costs to a minimum. As long as the pool has a dedicated return line, installation is easy. There is no need to install or remove heavy equipment or hoses, and no batteries to charge.

Robotic cleaners

Over the past few years, robotic pool cleaners have revolutionised the portable pool cleaner market. Originally used for commercial and public pools, advances in technology, improvement in manufacturing procedures and greater demand has seen the price drop and the utility improve for residential pools.

February-March 2014

Maytronics is one of the pioneers of the robotic pool cleaner market, having recently celebrated 30 years making their Dolphin robots in their Israeli factory. Dan Kwaczynski, managing director of Maytronics Australia, says that while price can be an issue with some customers – residential robot retail prices vary from about $850 to $3500 – there are many advantages that make them a worthwhile investment. “There is a definite trend towards easier pool cleaning systems and robotics,” says Kwaczynski. “ In 2010, Dolphin was really the only nationwide robot pool cleaner on the market, now we see a whole raft of brands – Dolphin, Kreepy, EcoClean, Trident, Poolsweepa and plenty more. Over the past three years, robots have been one of the highest growth products the industry has ever seen.” He says the advantages of robotic pool cleaners include the fact they are easy to use, have computer intelligence so they don’t get stuck, have active scrubbing brushes to clean the surface more thoroughly, and are independent so they don’t put an extra load on the pool’s hydraulics or filtration. Additionally, they can help reduce electric load, chemical usage and water wastage – cutting backwashing by up to 50 per cent because of their in-cleaner filtering. They also increase water circulation and only need to operate once or twice per week. The latest developments in robots are making them even more user-friendly. These include cordless battery-operated units for pools with obstacles that hoses and cables might get stuck on; and gyroscopes – which would normally be seen in commercial models, providing ultra-straight line driving. Another innovation is hybrid units. These use suction

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The Pool Rover ST has only one moving part

power converted to robot technology, reducing the cost while still having many of the robot’s benefits. “One of the common problems with robotic cleaners is cable entanglement,” he says. “But this can be easily avoided if you ensure your robot has a swivel. Also, make sure you have the correct robot for the pool. For example, lap pools should have a dual drive; island pools should have a battery model.” For new pool builders, Kwaczynski recommends robotic pool cleaners as a good option. “One of the key advantages for a pool builder is that they reduce the hydraulic load. This means there’s less pressure on the builder to ensure optimal hydraulics, especially as three-speed pumps can affect the performance of many suction systems.” He also recommends that they try to upsell the customer to the highest level, as this will provide them with a superior performance, resulting in positive feedback and referrals. This is especially true of the wall climber models, he says. And of course, it will provide improved margins for the builder.

Robot on the fast track

Hexagone’s Vision Boss has an underwater camera with a light for night vision, and even “talks” to aquatic centre staff

Waterco’s Admiral Ultra has a “fast track” one hour cycle

The Dolphin Supreme from Maytronics

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George Flory, Waterco’s product manager for domestic water care, says Waterco’s new Admiral Ultra robotic pool cleaner is a next generation device. “The Admiral Ultra has been engineered with ease of use plus water, energy and chemical conservation top of mind,” he says. With Fast Track technology, the latest model can offer two cleaning options. The normal three-hour “full clean cycle” scrubs walls up to the waterline, floors and steps. But the Admiral Ultra also includes a one-hour “fast track” option: a concentrated cleaning cycle just on the pool floor, where the majority of debris is usually located. “With this new technology, we have finessed the features to make it even easier for pool owners to target specific problem areas in the pool,” says Flory. “And as with previous versions, it’s designed to save pool owners time and money. Ease of use is also key; it requires no installation, no hoses and no additional equipment.” The Admiral Ultra has three self-driven internal motors, one of which enables it to vacuum up water, dirt and debris through a built-in pump and then filter it through an internal filtration system. The other two motors drive two powerful scrubbing brushes and propel it around the pool. It includes all-terrain traction plus gel-pro brushes. The result is increased torque and efficiency, and the motor allows for better traction and superior cleaning capabilities. It also has a water-cooled pump and operates on just 120 watts of power. Its quick drain system enables water to rapidly flow back into the pool, immediately lightening the cleaner for quick and easy removal from the pool. “The Admiral Ultra has no problem vacuuming up large leaves and sticks,” says Flory. “This results in a more comprehensive clean in a shorter period of time. This cleaner also has a wide cleaning path; the strategic location of the Admiral Ultra’s vacuum intake ports and the advanced geometry of its underbelly allow debris to be vacuumed not only from under the cleaner, but also from its sides.”

Lovibond® Water Testing Tintometer® Group

Contacts: Aqua-Quip www.aquaquip.com.au Compass Pools Australia www.compasspools.com.au Cooke Industries www.cookeindustries.com.au Hayward Industries www.hayward-pool.com.au Maytronics Australia www.maytronics.com.au Orimatech: www.orimatech.com.au Out from the Blue: www.oftb.com.au

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Pool-Water Products www.poolwaterproducts.com.au Pool Ranger www.poolranger.com Sherwood Overseas Company www.kreepykrauly.com.au Waler Australia www.waleraustralia.com.au Waterco www.waterco.com.au Waterline Pool Innovations www.waterline.net.au Zodiac Group Australia www.zodiac.com.au

Commercial robots

John Davie from Orimatech handles the Dolphin range for the commercial market. He says that commercial robotic pool cleaners need to provide the operator primarily with heavy-duty performance and robust reliability for long-term, cost effective operation. “Fully automated operation of the cleaner allows the pool to be cleaned overnight and staff can focus on other tasks without worrying about the quality of the pool water,” he says. He points out some of the user-friendly features of the Dolphin commercial range. “They have intelligent, self-adjusting software to ensure optimised coverage for any size or shape pool, including beach entry pools. They have an effective surface scrubbing system; reliable dirt and debris collection; and the dual-level filtration system efficiently cleans in any pool condition. Also, the precise waterline cleaning effectively removes oily layer build up.” Davie says they are designed for reliable, long-lasting performance with a motor protection system and a full warranty on all parts, adding that their high reliability reduces service and maintenance needs.

Seeing and talking robot

Hexagone is the leading European robotic pool cleaner manufacturer. Malcolm Knight is the managing director of Waler Australia, the company that imports and distributes them in Australia. He says their latest product, the Vision Boss (part of the Pool Boss robotic range) is the most advanced cleaner to ever be produced. “The Vision Boss has an underwater camera with a light for night vision, making it ideal to examine interior expansion joints, paint condition, the vinyl liner or anything else that might be of concern,” he says. “Through the visual screen, fitted on the electrical box, you can see where the robot is driving in either automatic or remote-control mode. “Its powerful double-pump system draws 90,000 litres of water per hour through the filtration system through side and bottom vents on the robot. With its systematic program, it is capable of cleaning all types of swimming pools.” This robot actually talks to staff on start-up, offering handy instructional tips. Maintenance is pre-diagnosed by the robot and can be handled onsite by Waler’s professional technicians. n

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Perfect preparation makes terrific tiling Parliament House Canberra – a project with exacting preparation

By Fred Gray

ollowing from my previous article (Tiling to last a lifetime – SPLASH! Edition 91), I thought it prudent to go into a little more depth with some of the considerations and practises when preparing one of the most common substrates for ceramic tiling in pools – the concrete shell.

Preparation

The first step in substrate preparation is the evaluation of the substrate and its surface condition. This includes the levelness (plane or flatness deviation), identification of general defects (e.g. structural cracks, shrinkage cracks, laitance, etc), the presence of curing compounds or surface hardeners, and contamination. Concrete should be sound with adequate surface strength and have a wood float or light steel trowel finish for proper adhesion of underlayments, membranes or thinsets. Over-finishing a concrete surface can close the pores and may inhibit proper adhesion of thin-sets and membranes. Not finishing concrete is also not advised. The ability of a substrate to be wetted by an adhesive is essential to good adhesion and important in determining the performance of the adhesive in bonding to the substrate. This means that not only should the substrate possess a balance between porosity and texture, but also that the surface must be clean of any contamination such as dust, dirt, oil, paint, curing compounds, sealers and other bond-inhibiting substances that could prevent bonding of an adhesive. The 46 SPLASH! February-March 2014

levelness tolerance or smoothness of a substrate surface can also play an important role in allowing proper contact and wetting of an adhesive. Adhesive Compatibility – Compatibility plays an important role in determining adhesion between the substrate and the tile or membrane being installed. The substrate material must be compatible not only with adhesive attachment, but also with the type of adhesive under consideration. This means that the substrate material must have good cohesive qualities to resist tensile and sheer stress and not have an adverse reaction with the proposed adhesive or membrane. Similarly, the tile being installed must also be compatible with the adhesive. A general consideration in determining compatibility with adhesives is as follows; the installation of any finish material with an adhesive will only be as good as the setting materials and the substrate to which the finish material will be bonded. The highest strength adhesives and most careful application with the best quality tile will not overcome a weak, dirty or contaminated substrate. Site Visit and Pre-Construction Conference – Prior to commencing ceramic tile work; the tile contractor shall inspect surfaces to receive tile and accessories, and shall notify the architect, builder, or other designated authority of any visually obvious defects or conditions that will prevent a satisfactory tile installation. Installation work shall not proceed until satisfactory conditions are provided. Commencing

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installation of tile work typically means acceptance of substrate and job site conditions. Job Site Conditions – The following items are examples of potential issues that may need to be addressed prior to commencing the installation: 1. Contamination – The surface to which tile or stone installation materials will be bonded must be structurally sound, clean and free of all dirt, dust, oil, grease, paint, concrete sealers, curing compounds, laitance and any other material that can act as a bond inhibitor. 2. Surface and Ambient Temperatures – Extreme temperatures of both the ambient air and surface of the substrate can affect the normal properties of tile adhesives. Elevated ambient air and surface temperatures >32°C will accelerate the setting of cement, latex cement and epoxy adhesives. Humidity may also have an effect on the curing of membranes and Portland cement based adhesives and grouts. Higher humidity will work to slow down cure rates while low humidity will accelerate the curing process.

Potential bond-breaking materials

A tile installation is only as good as its adhesion to the substrate and the tile. An adhesive, in any form, will bond to the first thing it comes in contact with. If that material is dirt, dust, paint or any other impediment that is lying on a surface, the adhesion to that substrate can be compromised. The importance of a good, clean surface cannot be over emphasised, regardless of the substrate or tile adhesive. Laitance – Laitance is a surface defect in concrete where a thin layer of weakened Portland cement fines have migrated to the surface with excess “bleed” water or air from unconsolidated air pockets. Once the excess water evaporates, it leaves behind a thin layer of what appears to be a hard concrete surface, but in reality is weakened due to the high water-to-cement ratio at the surface. Laitance has a very low tensile strength, and therefore the adhesion of tile will be limited by the low strength of the laitance. The removal of laitance by mechanical methods, including the use of chipping hammers or scarifying machines, is recommended. The contaminated concrete surface should be removed until sound, clean concrete is encountered. Measurement of surface tensile strength and the absence of loose material are good indicators of sound concrete. Abrasive blasting by means of a dry or wet blasting process, or bead/shot blast methods are also acceptable for the removal of laitance on new and fully cured concrete. Compressed air used in these methods must be oil-free. Since wet abrasive blasting reintroduces moisture into the concrete, sufficient drying time must be allowed. Curing Compounds, Sealers and Form Release Agents – Unfortunately, all types of curing compounds, concrete sealers and surface hardeners must be completely removed from substrates prior to the installation of tile or any installation accessories, including waterproofing membranes. The preferred methods to remove these curing compounds from the surface would be to bead-blast or shot-blast the horizontal concrete surface, and to high pressure wash vertical concrete surfaces. There is a very simple and effective test to identify the presence of curing compounds, sealers or other

bond breaking conditions. Simply sprinkle a few drops of water onto the substrate and see what happens. If water absorbs into the slab then it is usually suitable for the direct adhesion of tile. On the other hand, if the water beads up on the concrete surface (like water on a freshly waxed car) then there is something present on the concrete surface that can inhibit proper adhesion of the tile adhesive. While the water test is commonly used to determine the presence of bond-inhibiting substances, it may not always be accurate.

Moisture meter showing a dry reading with a pinless RF sensor

The importance of a good, clean surface cannot be over emphasised, regardless of the substrate or tile adhesive

In addition, to determine if bond-inhibiting contamination such as oil or curing compounds are present on concrete, conduct the following test: taking proper safety precautions, mix a 1:1 solution of aqueous hydrochloric (muriatic) acid and water, and place a few drops in various locations. If the solution causes foaming action, then the acid is allowed to react freely with the alkaline concrete, indicating that there is no likely contamination. If there is little or no reaction, chances are the surface is contaminated with oil or curing compounds. Acids do not affect or remove oily or waxy residue, therefore, mechanical removal may be necessary. Any surface to receive tile will always be exposed to varying degrees of contamination, especially normal construction dust and debris. Tiling is one of the last phases of the construction of a pool. One of the most difficult tasks for any installer is the preparation of the surface before the installation of the tile commences. However, it is one of the most important steps, if not the most important step, to providing for a successful, long lasting tile installation. Cleaning the surface is mandatory before tile is placed, and sometimes multiple washings will have to take place before tiling. Just sweeping the floor is not good enough! February-March 2014 SPLASH! 47

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Weather conditions and substrate protection

The optimum conditions for installation of ceramic tile and stone are temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, with 50 per cent relative humidity. However, these conditions are atypical, so provisions must be made for variations in climate conditions. Protection applies to the substrate, the installation of the tiling system, and also the storage and handling of the finish material.

Shading surfaces that may be in direct sunlight by erecting temporary tents is also effective in lowering surface temperature Hot Temperatures – Protection or corrective action is required if either ambient air or surface temperatures of substrates/finishes go above certain thresholds during installation. Temperature thresholds vary with the types of adhesives and installation accessories, but generally, elevated ambient air 25°C to 35°C and surface temperatures will accelerate setting of cement, latex cement, epoxy and silicone adhesives. Washing and dampening floors and walls will not only remove some contaminants, but also serve to lower surface

temperatures by evaporative cooling for cement latex mortars and moisture insensitive epoxy adhesives. Shading surfaces that may be in direct sunlight by erecting temporary tents is also effective in lowering surface temperature, but if ambient air and surface temperatures exceed 35°C, it is advisable to defer work to another time. If work cannot be deferred, it is also possible to cool additives (water, latex, epoxy liquids) in conjunction with the above techniques. Cold Temperatures – Protection or corrective action is required if either ambient air or surface temperatures of substrates go below certain thresholds during installation. Temperature thresholds are different for various types of adhesives. Protection and corrective actions to elevate air and surface temperatures to the optimum range typically involve enclosing or tenting of work areas, augmented by temporary heating. If temporary heating is employed, it is very important to vent units to the exterior of enclosures to prevent exposure to toxic fumes. Cement hydration stops at 0°C surface temperature, when water necessary for hydration freezes, and the cement hydration process is severely retarded starting at 5°C. As a general rule, air and surface temperatures should be maintained above 10°C during installation of cement, epoxy, and silicone based products. As a simple rule of thumb; for every 10°C above 21°C cement based and epoxy based materials cure twice as fast. For every 10°C below 21°C

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cement based and epoxy based materials take twice as long to cure. Dry and Windy Conditions – These conditions can cause premature evaporation of water necessary for hydration in cementitious materials, and result in loss of strength. Latex additives are formulated to significantly reduce this drying effect by coating cement with a latex film. However, in extreme dry, windy conditions coupled with high temperatures >30°C, even latex additives do not provide adequate protection. It is recommended to provide temporary protection against rapid evaporation of moisture during hot, dry, windy conditions in the initial 36 hours after installation of cement mortars, screeds, plasters/renders and cement grouts, and to augment by damp curing with periodic daily water misting. Cement-based adhesives are only susceptible to premature drying between the spreading of adhesive and the installation of the finish, and require only temporary protection from dry, high wind speeds during the open or exposed time of the adhesive. Wet Conditions – Certain materials used in ceramic tile and stone assemblies can be moisture sensitive. For example, the strength of cementitious adhesives can be reduced from constant exposure to wet or damp substrates. Some materials, such as waterproofing membranes, may not cure properly or may delaminate from a continually wet or damp substrate. A damp substrate may also contribute to the formation of

eﬄorescence. This is a particular concern not only from normal rain exposure during construction, but also in areas of an installation, which may be exposed to rising dampness at ground level, or in areas where leaks from poor design or construction cause continual dampness in the substrate. When specifying liquid latex or dry re-dispersible polymer adhesive mortar, verify with the manufacturer that the polymer formulation is not water-soluble. However, even formulations that are

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not soluble when dry are vulnerable to rain during the initial set period (typically 12–24 hours). Therefore, it is essential to provide protection from any significant rain or washing within this period to avoid loss of strength and prevent possible fluid or latex migration staining. Moisture Content of Concrete – As noted previously, materials used in tile and stone installation applications can be affected by moisture during the

Latex additives are formulated to significantly reduce this drying effect by coating cement with a latex film

installation and curing phase. Concrete with a high moisture vapour emission rate (MVER) may also have an impact on a tile or stone installation. As much as there are various test methods to determine moisture in concrete, they are only a “snapshot” of moisture content or moisture vapour emission during the testing period only. Some of the test methods include: 50 SPLASH! February-March 2014

1. The Relative Humidity test which involves placing probes in the concrete and taking readings with a hygrometer. A relative humidity reading of 75 per cent or below is acceptable for most tile applications. Please note that problems exist with reliable results in external tests. 2. The Plastic Sheet Method which involves taping an 450mm x 450mm piece of plastic on the concrete and allowing the plastic to remain in place for 18 hours to 24 hours to determine if any moisture has accumulated under the plastic when it is removed. Please note that this is a qualitative test (stating that moisture is present but not how much). 3. Moisture content testing with non-invasive radio frequency (RF). These instruments can be used to take relative moisture readings to depths of 20mm in concrete by holding the surface of the sensor against the material to be tested. Typically readings indicate Dry, At Risk or Wet conditions which facilitate further action in determining moisture issues. Concrete Curing and Age of Concrete – The age of a concrete substrate is important based on the fact that as concrete cures and loses moisture, it shrinks. A common misconception is that concrete completes shrinking in 28 days. This is not true. Thick sections of concrete may take over 2 years to reach the point of

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The surface of the concrete after grit blasting. It shows an open pored surface with the fine aggregates exposed

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ultimate shrinkage. Under normal conditions, 28 days is the time that it typically takes for concrete to reach its full design strength. At that point, concrete will have maximum tensile strength and can better resist the effects of shrinkage and stress concentration. Depending upon the curing techniques and exposure to humidity or moisture, there may be very little shrinkage in the first 28 days. Flexible adhesives, certain latex or polymer fortified

February-March 2014

thin-set adhesives can accommodate the shrinkage movement and stress that may occur in concrete less than 28 days old. In some cases it may be recommended to wait a minimum of 30 days to 45 days to reduce the probability of concentrated stress on the adhesive interface. Some building regulations or codes may require longer waiting periods of up to six months. After this period, resistance to concentrated stress is provided by the tensile strength gain of the concrete, and its ability to shrink as a composite assembly. The effect of the remaining shrinkage is significantly reduced by its distribution over time and accommodated by the use of flexible adhesives. Cracking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Freshly placed concrete undergoes a temperature rise from the heat generated by cement hydration, resulting in an increase in volume. As the concrete cools to the surrounding temperature, it contracts and is susceptible to what is termed â&#x20AC;&#x153;plastic shrinkageâ&#x20AC;? cracking due to the low tensile strength within the first several hours after the pour. Concrete also undergoes shrinkage as it dries out, and can crack from build-up of tensile stress. Rapid evaporation of moisture results in shrinkage at an early stage where the concrete does not have adequate tensile strength to resist even contraction. Concrete is most susceptible to drying shrinkage cracking within the first 28 days of placement during which it develops adequate tensile strength to resist a more evenly distributed and less

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rapid rate of shrinkage. It is for this reason that it is recommended to wait 30 days to 45 days before direct application of adhesive mortars. Plastic shrinkage occurs before concrete reaches its initial set, while drying shrinkage occurs after the concrete sets. These types of shrinkage cracks generally do not produce cracks larger than 1/8” (3mm) in width. Treating Shrinkage Cracks – There are two different ways to treat shrinkage cracks – individually or as a whole. One method only treats the individual crack and not the entire area. The second method of treating the shrinkage crack uses the anti-fracture/waterproofing membrane over the entire area. The second method will help to protect the finished installation from cracks currently in the concrete substrate and any cracks which may develop over time. This is the preferred method for constant wet area and submerged applications. Structural Cracks – There is no tile installation practice or method for treating any crack over 3mm wide or cracks that experience differential vertical movement. These cracks are considered structural in nature and would require determination of the cause of the crack. Once the cause of the structural movement is determined, it must be remedied prior to the installation of the tile system. Repair techniques can vary and a structural engineer should be consulted prior to any remediation or installation of a tile system.

Substrate preparation equipment and procedures

Contamination Removal – If contamination removal is required, or if surface damage or defects exist, bulk surface removal may be necessary to prepare the substrate. There are several methods of removal, but it is important to select a method that is appropriate to the substrate material and will not cause damage to the sound material below the surface.

An example of concrete background with a wood float finish that is free from loose particles and contamination

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Methods of Removal – There are several methods for removing contamination from a substrate to better prepare for the application of tile and stone installation materials. These include: 1. Mechanical Chipping, Scarifying and Grinding – Mechanical chipping, scarifying or grinding methods are recommended only when substrate defects and/or contamination exist in isolated areas and require bulk surface removal greater than 6mm in depth. Chipping with a pneumatic square tip chisel or grinding with an angle grinder is a common mechanical removal technique. 2. Shot-blasting and bead blasting – This is a surface preparation method which uses proprietary equipment to pummel the surface of concrete with steel pellets or ceramic beads at high velocity. The pellets of varying size are circulated in a closed, self-contained chamber, where the pellets and debris are separated. The debris is collected in one container and the pellets are re-circulated for continued use. This is the preferred method of substrate preparation when removal of a thin layer of the concrete surface is required, especially the removal of surface films (e.g. curing compounds or sealers) or paint. 3. Water-Blasting – High pressure water blasting using pressures over 3000 psi to 10,000psi (21MPa to 69MPa) will remove the top surface layer of concrete and expose aggregate to provide a clean, rough surface. Thorough rinsing of the surface with water after water blasting is necessary to remove any laitance. Water blasting is only

recommended on fully cured concrete because of the high pressure. Proper allowance must be made to allow for the excess water in the slab to dry. This method is commonly used on vertical surfaces and is ideal for preparation of pool tanks, water features and vertical surfaces. 4. Acid Etching – Acid etching or cleaning is never recommended to clean a surface prior to receiving tile. If an acid is not neutralised or cleaned properly after the cleaning takes place, it can continue to weaken the Portland cement in the concrete and tile installation materials when in the presence of moisture. Acid must be neutralised with tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) or baking soda mixed with water and then completely rinsed to ensure all the acid is removed from the surface. Again, acid is not recommended for cleaning concrete, since it has an adverse effect on Portland cement. A chemical reaction occurs when Portland cement and acid are introduced to each other that can destroy the cement matrix. The interaction between the acid and the Portland cement exposes the concrete aggregates and weakens the concrete. Acid can also leave a white powdery substance on the surface which can act as a bond breaker for any tile installation material. To avoid any potential problems it is best to avoid the use of acids as a substrate preparation method. Substrate Tolerances Flatness and Levelness – A flat and smooth substrate is important for any tile installation requiring a direct application with a thin or medium

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bed adhesive. For floors, AS3958.1-2007 requires a flatness tolerance or maximum variation in plane of 5mm in 3m for concrete or subsequent underlayment surfaces to receive tiles by the thin bed method and for walls 4mm in 2m. These variations may not be appropriate where stringent surfaces finish tolerances are specified or where larger format tiles are being used. Large format tile and stone applications generally require a tighter surface tolerance of 3mm in 3 m from the required plane. Greater deviations prevent the proper installation of tile into the adhesive, which may result in numerous problems, including loss of bond or excessive lippage. If flatness or levelness tolerance is exceeded, then it may be necessary to employ remedial work, such as re-construction, patching, grinding, or installation of levelling mortars, screeds, or renders. If the tolerance is within specifications, then the use of a medium bed mortar and a larger size notch trowel can alleviate any minor defects in the substrate. Please note that while a medium mortar may be used to correct minor substrate defects, it is important to stay within the product manufacturers guidelines for thickness of the setting material.

Final surface (residue) cleaning

Once all corrections to the substrate have been made, the final and most important step of substrate preparation is the final cleaning, not only of the residue from contamination and bulk removal processes described above, but

also cleaning of loose particles and dust from airborne contamination. The final cleaning is considered minimum preparation for all substrates. Final cleaning can be accomplished by pressurised water as mentioned above, but can also be accomplished with standard pressure water and some agitation to eliminate the bond-breaking effect of dust films. In some cases, airborne contamination is constant, requiring frequent washing just prior to installation of cement levelling plaster/renders, adhesive mortars, or membranes. There is no exception from this general rule; and the only variation is the drying time of the substrate prior to the application of the adhesive. Drying time is dependent on the type of adhesive being used. With most adhesives, the substrate can be damp, with no standing water. A surface film of water will inhibit grab and bond of even water insensitive cement and epoxy based adhesives. The use of a damp sponge just prior to installation of tile is an industry-accepted method to ensure that the substrate is cleaned of any dirt and construction dust on the properly prepared substrate. Summary – Coming to terms with the principles above will go a long way to ensuring an enduring installation. Of course, it is still only a brief outline of one phase of a multi-phase sequence, but it’s a start to developing methods and procedures that will stand the test of time. n Fred Gray is Laticrete Technical Service Manager Contacts: www.laticrete.com.au

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A successful strategy to build relationships

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ioGuard Director Lindsay McGrath says that an express customer focus is behind the company’s enduring success. Last year BioGuard celebrated three decades in the industry, and McGrath has put together some thoughts on why the company had prospered for so many years. “When BioGuard came to Australia in the early 1980s, they first focussed on developing relationships with a handful of retailers who adopted the BioGuard model,” says McGrath. “This strategy worked, and the early network of retailers quickly became ambassadors, helping spread the word that a company with a unique approach had entered the market.” He says that BioGuard’s philosophy was based upon never wanting to be perceived simply as a “chemical supplier” but instead a business partner that would help retailers develop their skills and knowledge, grow their businesses and work collaboratively with them – in good times and

bad. This is the strategy that helped propel them over the next three decades. “We started by recognising that each retailer was unique and therefore needed to tailor their business and services to their location, strength of local competition and the regulatory environment in their particular State or Territory,” he says. “We built trust with the retailer by arming them with knowledge and information and empowering the retailer to run a more successful and profitable business.”

Business development managers

“Today, you’d be hard pressed to find someone with the title Sales Representative,” he says. But he says that in the old days, everything was about sales: the main impetus for many suppliers was to sell stock in volume to the retailer. “But we opted for a different path long before other suppliers changed tack. We invested in turning our business development managers into industry leaders, and then giving them the tools to impart their knowledge to retailers.”

The theory was that if the retailers trusted the supplier, the sales would follow – and they did. “Loyalty was the key. It was one thing to attract a customer but another to retain them over a long period of time.”

Education

He says that education became a key to their approach. “BioGuard’s conferences became legendary over the years for their stylish venues, great speakers and conference programs, and networking opportunities. They have been used to introduce new ideas, share expertise and knowledge, and allow retailers to network with, and learn more from, their peers.” They began prioritising training after recognising there was a lack of formal industry education available in the swimming pool and spa industry. Shortly after coming to Australia, they established four-day technical training schools across the country, where retailers could attend for free and learn about various aspects of pool care, business management and customer service. Importantly, the pool schools improved the retailers understanding of water chemistry

and how to tailor solutions to their customer’s needs. This approach had a major impact on the success of the retailer’s businesses. More recently, they’ve also responded to retailers needs by launching an online training program called H2Know Training. Advisory panels have also played an important role in shaping the business. The panels comprise old and new retailers, and explore new ways of improving customer service, consumer trends and different approaches to marketing. It is a way to keep the company’s ear to the ground and respond to the needs of retailers and customers, often by launching new products and initiatives.

Technical bulletins and support

McGrath says BioGuard’s technical expertise has provided retailers with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of pool chemistry and be proactive with their own customers. “The bulletins focussed on solving current or anticipated problems or issues, and are often the result of changing climactic conditions,” says McGrath. “These have included heavy rains, dust storms and strong winds.”

He says these empower retailers to quickly solve problems by “diagnosis and cure”, and that the ongoing care has resulted in improved sales and increased customer loyalty. McGrath also says that over the years, BioGuard has not only identified the importance of education and training for their retail network but also the broader industry. “The company has actively lobbied for nationally accredited training for pool technicians and retailers through its membership of SPRAA and SPASA,” he says. “For the first time, this year we will see national qualifications offered throughout the country marking a turning point for the industry. In turn, this active involvement in obtaining recognition has helped forge closer ties with retailers and technicians.” He says that last year was a time of reflection as they celebrated their milestone. “But most importantly, we’ve worked to build for the future by refining our relationship-building strategies and exploring new ways of bringing the BioGuard family even closer together for another 30 years.” n Contact: www.bioguard.com.au

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RE GI ST ER

16-17 July 2014 Jupiter’s Hotel & Casino Gold Coast, Australia Australasia’s largest pool & spa trade show will be held on 16th - 17th July 2014, at Jupiters Gold Coast, Queensland. The biennial event draws more than 2000 attendees from Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia. Since the first SPLASH! in 1998, SPLASH! has become the essential meeting place for pool builders, contractors, retailers, manufacturers, architects and landscapers. A highlight of SPLASH! is the comprehensive education program which covers many of the major issues within the pool industry. International and local speakers cover subjects such as water chemistry, new industry standards as well as marketing and ecommerce for pool shop owners. The expo is also bigger than ever before, with over 80 exhibitors already confirmed. Exhibitors who are taking part in SPLASH! for the first time include Artisan Stone Pty Ltd, Minder Swimming Pool Equipment Pty Ltd, Hainan Zhongxin Chemical Co Ltd and S.R. Smith.

Exhibitor list ABGAL Liners and Covers, Albatross Pools, Aqua Action Slides, Aqua-Quip, Artisan Stone PTY Ltd, Associated Controls, Astral Pool Australia, Australian Energy Systems, Australian Innovative Systems, Australian Leak Detection, Australian Spa Parts, Autopool (Automated Pool Products), BioLab, Bioniser Pty Ltd, Blue Glass Pebble Co PTY Ltd, Boss Polymer Technologies, Cixi Handsome Pool Appliance, Classic Pools, Colourmaker Industries, Commercial Aquatics Australia, Compu Pool Products, Continental Water Systems, Cooke Industries, Daisy Pool Covers, Davey Water Products, Designerite Pty Ltd, Driclad Pool Technology, Eaycare Products, Elite Pool Covers, Emaux Water Technology, Enviroswim, Evo Industries Australia Pty Ltd, Evolution, Evolve, Fluid Solution, FOCUS Products, Form and Light, Hainan Zhongxin Chemical Co Ltd, Hayward Pool Products, Heliocol Solar, Hot Water Heat Pumps Au Pty Ltd, Hydrocare Pools, Ian Coombes Australia PTY Ltd, IQ, Jewels 4 Pools, Joy Pool Systems, Just Spas, Kokido Development Limited, Lincoln Pool Equipment, Lo-Chlor, Magnum Filters Master Pebble Australia, Maytronics, Maytronics, Minder Swimming Pool Equipment PTY Ltd, Newline Pool Produdcts, Niagara Pool Supplies, Ningbo Poolstar Pool Products Co. Ltd, Ozone1 Pty Ltd, Pentair Water, Plastiflex Hose System Solutions, Pool Controls, Pool Pro Products, Pool Systems Pty Ltd, Pool-i.d. UK Ltd & STA, Pool-Water Products, PoolRx Worldwide, Prominent Fluid Controls, Protector Aluminium, Quartzon, Remco Australia, Rheem, S.R. Smith, Skypebble®, Sofikitis Poolstones, Solartech Pool Heating Pty Ltd, Spa Electrics, SPASA Alliance, SPRAA, Stern’s Pools, Sunbather, Sunlover Heating, Supreme Heating, The Pool Tile Company, Tim Batt Water Solutions/Pulsar, United Media Group, Universal Magazines, Vendart Pty Ltd, VICI, Water Linx/Solar Splash, Waterblade, Waterco Ltd, Waterlilly Australia/ Lovibond, Watertec Engineering Pty Ltd, WOW Company SA, Zeolite Aust and Zodiac

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

NEW hocki

Tom Lac

Alex An

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World Aquatic Health Conference FIRST TIME OFFERED OUTSIDE THE USA SPLASH! Pool & Spa Expo will host the first World Aquatic Health Conference Symposium down under. “Where Science Meets Policy & Industry” will bring together a dynamic group of world-renowned experts who will spotlight the latest advances in science, industry and regulations to provide a safer, healthier aquatic experience. The event promises practical science, a diversity of thinking and breadth of knowledge – all with an emphasis on useful application.

Welcome Reception Sponsor

Awards Gala Dinner

Golf Sponsor

Media Partner

Education Program Monday 14 & Tuesday 15 July 8:00am-5:00pm each day NSPF Swimming Pool & Spa Service Course Fee: $495 +GST This hands-on training program will teach you how to operate and maintain an aquatic facility. This program can be used as a pathway to obtaining either the Certificate III or IV in Swimming Pool and Spa Service qualifications. Completing this program will give you the ability to use the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) route to becoming qualified. Prior to the course you will be given access to the Pool Operator Primer and Routine Maintenance of Pool & Spa Equipment online courses. Additionally, successful completion of this program will qualify you for the NSPF Certified Pool/Spa Operator Certification for commercial pool operators. The blended program covers topics such as disinfection, filters, filtration, recreational water illnesses, water balance, pool and spa water problems, and much more. This course is a combination of online, classroom, and hands-on training. You will be given resources materials related to Australian Standards, Codes, and Regulations. The hands-on component of the program will take us to the aquatic facilities at Jupiters where we will be able to perform various tasks such as: • Monitoring and maintaining water quality • Filter maintenance • Pump maintenance • Chemical feeder maintenance • Pool cleaner maintenance The registration deadline for this course is July 1, 2014 to allow time for the completion of the online courses prior to arrival at the show. Once you are registered you will receive a copy of the NSPF Pool & Spa Operator handbook along with information on how to access the two online training courses. At the completion of the program you will be provided with information you need to complete you training for the qualifications from a Registered Training Organization (RTO).

Tuesday all day ALFA Conference Check www.splashexpo.com.au for more details.

Wednesday 16th July -

Session $30 +GST pre 29/6/14 $40 +GST post 9:00am–10:00am Mastering the Basics – Sales and Marketing Michael Marshall, Director of Sales and Marketing, QuikClean Mastering the Basics is an inspiring presentation which outlines the techniques involved in laying the foundations for sustained sales and marketing growth. Michael leads us through the sales process and identifies the key steps to achieving sales success. We have just one opportunity to create a good first impression and Michael highlights the importance of that opportunity in building a better rapport with potential customers. He promotes the advantages of a value rather than cost

approach to sales and provides advice on sharpening negotiation skills and delivering outstanding follow-up service. 10.15am-11.15am Mastering Social Media which drives business & sales Jodi Williams, Marketing & Social Web Strategist What “really“ is social media? And how does it help drive brand awareness and more sales. Social media is a generic term that used to encompass a lot of online digital activity. Social media, is taking your message to the social web and engaging in conversation, adding and sharing knowledge and helping deliver value to users – YOUR Customers. It’s used to reach and facilitate two way communication and content sharing to enhance your businesses online visibility, strengthen relationships and expand word of mouth about your brand. Most customers will more likely take the advice of their peers about products and services And now these conversations are being had online and in the public realm, it’s even more reason to be there with them. Many businesses have jumped on the Social media band wagon, setting up Facebook pages, Twitter accounts and instagram … only to be disappointed and disheartened by the lack of success. It’s one thing to get on line… it’s another thing to know what you’re doing online. Or shouldn’t be doing online! 11.30am-12.30pm The Aussie Pool Aftermarket It’s a Brave New World of Retail & Service John O’Brien, CEO, PoolWrex Corporation Ths session will cover • How to respond to the increasing demand for professional domestic services. • Transitioning from traditional pool shops to modern leisure retail environments. • Training, certification, licencing – these provide consumer confidence, professionalism and career opportunities in our sector. • Data base marketing is transforming us from reactive to proactive marketers. • The demand for safety and simplicity as well as energy and environmental conservation are driving a continual technical innovation pathway of opportunity. 1.00pm-2.00pm Cash Flow - the Lifeblood of your business Anthony Davis, Managing Director, Brightwater Business Coaching Have you ever said ‘I made a profit but there is no money in the bank’? Cash flow is essential to your survival. Learn where your cash is going and how to take control of this vital ingredient. 2.30pm-3.30pm Creating Systems and Automating your Marketing Communications Nicholas Jones, Managing Director, IOTA Australia A few years ago Nicholas was overwhelmed by the amount of marketing communications he knew he should be doing with his customer base but did not have the time to do it. This included creating and publishing informative articles; regular

REGISTER NOW! www.splashexpo.com.au email newsletters; social media; updating products on the website and digital catalogue etc. He sought a solution which has proved incredibly affective. systemising his business allowing him to work on the things that only he can do and manage his business. In this session Nicholas will explain: How he recruits, hires and retains out sourced staff; How to train, manage and work as a remote team; The importance of fresh marketing content specifically for an internet audience; Where to get marketing content for your website. And give case studies and examples of how to implement and maintain: enewsletters and blogs; website products; social media campaigns. 3.30pm-4.30pm National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme Dr Adrienne Adams, Senior Compliance Officer, NICNAS The National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) administers the Industrial Chemicals (Notification & Assessment) Act 1989 (the ICNA Act) which places legal obligations on importers and manufacturers of industrial chemicals. NICNAS assesses chemicals that are new to Australia for their health and environmental effects before they are used or released into the environment, and assesses those chemicals already in use in Australia on a priority basis in response to specific concerns about potential health and/or environmental effects. This information session will outline the legal obligations under the ICNA Act relevant to the Pool and Spa industry.

Thursday 17th July - FREE SESSIONS 10.15am-10:45am eQuilibrium Water Management System Matt Adlam, General Manager, AstralPool Australia The core needs of any swimming pool are the filtration system which removes unsightly organic matter that feeds bacteria and algae plus the sanitiser which destroys any algae and bacteria which enters the water. Modern day pumps, filters and pool cleaners remove the organic matter very effectively and automatically, almost eliminating day to day maintenance. Chlorinators cleverly produce sufficient sanitiser to destroy bacteria and algae but almost none regulate the amount of sanitiser or adjust the water balance. The problem is, too much sanitiser can fade the pool colour, become corrosive, damage the pool shell and pool equipment. In addition, nearly all sanitisers affect the water balance (pH) rendering the sanitiser ineffective at destroying bacteria and requiring lots of corrective balancing chemicals to be added to the pool by the owner or pool specialist. High pH causes skin irritations and red eyes. 11:00am-11:30am Why the pre-engineered pool is the world’s biggest selling pool Justin Otterbach, General Manager Albatross Swimming Pools and Garry Long, Managing Director, ABGAL The construction concept of a pre-engineered pool was first developed in North America back in 1948 essentially comprising of a concrete floor, side walls of a rigid material and a vinyl vacuum-sealed interior. Whilst today’s pool design is constantly being updated, the basic pre-engineered pool construction

method continues to be widely accepted and utilised around the world. In fact the building method of choice throughout Canada, USA, Caribbean, England, Europe and the Middle East is pre-engineered pools – in Canada and the USA alone 85% of pools built are preengineered. This highly visual presentation will include the exploration of the preengineered construction method and the variations of this method currently being utilised in the marketplace today. 11:45am-12:15pm A history of pool cleaning and new advancement Dan Kwaczynski, Managing Director, Maytronics Australia This session will cover: Pool cleaning evolution and development; Significant change and growth in this sector; Key benefits of technological advancement over the last 30 years and future trends. 12:30pm-1:00pm 180 years later: Chlorination without chemicals Elena Gosse, Chief Executive Officer, AIS According to Wikipedia, 2014 marks the 180th anniversary of the publication of electrochemical researches by Michael Faraday that led to today’s understanding and use of electrolysis. Faraday’s work, immortalised in his First and Second Laws of Electrolysis, paved the way for technologies used today to make aluminium, lithium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chlorine, sodium hydroxide and even to produce oxygen to keep humans alive in spacecraft and nuclear submarines! In this presentation Elena will recap some of the key highlights of Michael Faraday’s remarkable career, and provide an overview of the application of electrolysis to modern water sanitisation. This talk will be relevant to all sectors: Residential pool and spa trade; Sports, leisure and recreation industries and Industries water sanitisation applications AIS will tackle some key myths about electrolysis, such as the belief that chlorination by inline electrolysis is only possible in salt water. She will demonstrate that sanitisation by inline electrolysis is now entirely feasible in water with TDS at 1,200 ppm and within the reach of even less saline water bodies. The belief that inline sanitisation by electrolysis is only for salt water systems continues to prevent many aquatic facilities from enjoying the ease and convenience of ending their dependence on sanitising with granular or liquid chlorine. 1:15pm-1:45pm Supply & intallation of solar powered pool pumps Ernest Gavery, Australian Innovative Systems Pty Ltd The supply and installation of solar powered swimming pool pumps is a growing section of the industry, as consumers strive to reduce their power cost and carbon emissions. It is now possible to filter and heat the swimming pool for zero running cost, but the problem is that few people are trained how to safely install this equipment. Ernest has been making and selling solar powered swimming pool pumps through his Solazone business since the mid-1990s, however today the technology has become more widely accepted, and used in mainstream society. Ernest will demonstrate the latest technology available, size selection, and also discuss the installation techniques used in different swimming pool solar pumping applications. Free session

Cert III & IV Program Tuesday 15th July 9:00am-10:00am Intro to Cert 3 & 4 in Pool and Spa Service Lindsay McGrath, Commercial Director, BioLab Wayne Bell, Business Development Manager, Pool and Spa Division Traxion Training, Simon Peppercorn, Training Manager, Swimming Pool and Spa Alliance (SPASA) This is an introduction to the newly created Certificate 3 and 4 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. We will outline the career path, what the two Certificates entail, and how you can complete them if you already have industry experience (Recognition of Prior Learning - RPL). Also introducing our two leading Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), Traxion and SPASA. The session will run for 40 minutes followed by 20 minutes for questions. 10:30am-2:30pm (Including 1 hour lunch) Assess and treat water problems in swimming pools and spas Bill Mansfield, Training Facilitator, BioLab This course will cover the basic theory of CPPSPS4001A, Assess and treat water problems in swimming pools and spas. This is a core course from the Certificate 4 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will cover how to identify and implement treatment processes for identified water problems in swimming pools and spas, how to comply with safety requirements when sampling, testing and treating water in swimming pools and spas, as well as how to report these outcomes. 3:00pmâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5:00pm Handle, transport and store swimming pool and spa chemicals safely Richard Greenwood, Senior Consultant, Hazardous Chemicals, Noel Arnold and Associates and Laura Whiteman, Regulatory and Compliance Specialist, BioLab This course will cover the basic theory and a practical component of CPPSPS3001A, Handle, transport and store swimming pool and spa chemicals safely. This is a core course from the Certificate 3 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will include; how to handle, transport and store swimming pool and spa chemicals safely. Maintain and use the personal protective equipment required for the safe handling, transport and storage of swimming pool and spa chemicals. Assess and respond to risks associated with the handling, transport and storage of swimming pool and spa chemicals. Follow emergency procedures for chemical spills and leaks. Maintain storage areas and manifests for swimming pool and spa chemicals. It will also include some of the basic knowledge of legislative, chemical manufacturer and enterprise requirements associated with swimming pool and spa chemicals, types of risks and risk control measures associated with swimming pool and spa chemicals, reactive properties of swimming pool and spa chemicals, and types and uses of different swimming pool and spa chemicals.

Wednesday 16th July 9:00am-10:00am Manage own role as a swimming pool and spa technician David Stennett, Business Development Manager, BioLab This course will cover the basic theory of CPPSPS4010A, Manage own role as a swimming pool and spa technician. This is a core course from the Certificate 4 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will cover personal motivation and commitment to the work role, managing day-to-day responsibilities and conflicting demands as a swimming pool and spa technician in an efficient and cooperative manner, relating positively to clients, fellow workers and the management team. Assessing personal strengths and weaknesses and planning and implementing an appropriate personal development plan. Demonstrating ethical practice and compliance with the regulatory requirements that apply to swimming pool and spa servicing and complying with enterprise quality assurance requirements. 11:00am-3:30pm (Including 1.5 hour lunch break) Maintain Pool Water Quality Paul Jacobson, Business Development Manager, BioLab, SPASA Trainer and selected guests

This course will cover the basic theory of SISCAQU304A, Maintain Pool Water Quality. This is a core course from both the Certificate 3 and 4 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will cover developing and implementing schedules for pool water microbiological testing, safely using and calculating chemicals to maintain chemical balance of pool water, anticipating bather loadings and taking corrective action to ensure public health and safety. As well as operating chemical dosing equipment for the treatment of pool water and updating pool records with information detailing water quality test results and corrective action taken. 4:00pm-5:00pm Overview and Intro of Cert 3 & 4, Delivery of RPL, training options Wayne Bell, Business Development Manager, Pool and Spa Division Traxion Training and Lindsay McGrath, Commercial Director of BioLab This will show you what Traxion can do for you! Traxion can help you understand the different training options available to you and more on the Required Prior Learning (RPL) requirements for the Certificate 3 and 4 in Pool and Spa Service.

Thursday 17th July 10:30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:30pm (Including 1 hour lunch break) Maintain Spa Water Quality Bill Mansfield, Training Facilitator, BioLab This course will cover the basic theory of CPPSPS4015A, Maintain spa water quality. This is an essential elective course from the Certificate 4 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will cover how to collect samples of spa water for testing, testing spa water quality using appropriate equipment, interpreting test results and implementing treatment processes for identified spa water quality problems. It will also cover how to comply with safety requirements when sampling, testing and treating spa water and report on outcomes of testing and treating spa water. 11:00am-12:00pm Facilitate effective client relationships Julian Quinn, National Sales Manager, BioLab This course will cover the basic theory of CPPCMN4004B, Facilitate effective client relationships. This is an essential elective course from the Certificate 4 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will cover how to build client relationships, explain features and benefits of products and services using knowledge of products and services, identify and use opportunities for establishing business contacts and networks and present information in a variety of formats to a range of business contacts. 1:30pm-2:30pm Overview and Intro of Cert 3 & 4, Delivery of RPL, training options Simon Peppercorn, Training Manager, Swimming Pool and Spa Alliance (SPASA) and Lindsay McGrath, Commercial Director of BioLab This will show you what SPASA can do for you! SPASA can help you understand the different training options available to you and more on the Required Prior Learning (RPL) requirements for the Certificate 3 and 4 in Pool and Spa Service. 3:00pm-5:00pm Routinely Maintain swimming pools and spas Stephen Reed, Business Development Manager, Hayward and Paul Jacobson, Business Development Manager, BioLab, SPASA Trainer This course will cover the basic theory of CPPSPS3003A, Routinely maintain swimming pools and spas. This is a core course from the Certificate 3 in Swimming Pool and Spa Service. A certificate of attendance will be issued which can go towards credit for your qualification. The course will cover a theory and practical session on the following; locating, interpreting and applying relevant information, standards and specifications to carry out routine maintenance of swimming pools and spas. Apply safety requirements, including using personal protective clothing and equipment. Carry out routine maintenance activities on swimming pools and spas and environs, including identifying faults and undertaking routine repairs in line with manufacturer instructions and client and enterprise requirements. Report complex faults and repair requirements to relevant persons. Restore work area to original condition and check swimming pool or spa and environs for safety hazards. Ensure that waste is disposed of and tools and equipment are cleaned and stored in line with WHS and enterprise requirements.

Co-Sponsors

Program Pricing: $250 +GST Government & Student. $395 + GST before 29.6.2014 $495 + GST after

THURSDAY - 17 July 2014 9:30am-10:00am Welcome & Overview MC - Tom Lachocki, Chief Executive Officer, NSPF

10:00am-10:50am Understanding & Preventing Recreational Water Illness–Associated Outbreaks Michele Hlavsa, Chief, U.S. CDC’s Healthy Swimming Program Recreational water–associated illness can result from exposure to germs or chemicals in recreational water venues (e.g., pools and lakes). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) defines an outbreak of recreational water–associated illness as the occurrence of similar illnesses in two or more persons linked by location and time of exposure to recreational water or water-associated chemicals volatilized into the air surrounding the water (e.g., chloramines). Since 1978, the year national reporting of these outbreaks began, 789 have been detected and reported to CDC. The number of outbreaks for a given year (range: 6–84 outbreaks) has statistically increased (negative binomial regression, p<0.001). Half (50% [393]) of the outbreaks were of acute gastrointestinal illness (e.g., diarrhea), of which 42% (167) were caused by the extremely chlorine-tolerant parasite Cryptosporidium. Preventing and controlling these outbreaks requires engagement of three key stakeholders: swimmers, aquatics staff, and public health. 11:00am-11:50am RWI - Risk Management Talk OR The Pathogens that we must protect against Alex Antoniou, Director of Educational Programs, NSPF RWIs can occur in any type of water venue including beaches, oceans, lakes, rivers, swimming pools, waterparks, splash pads, wave pools, wading pools, spas, and therapy pools. This presentation will focus on the control of RWIs in treated aquatic facilities. Experienced pool and spa operators and service professionals will be able to use this information to develop a robust RWI control program that is tailored to their unique facility. This information will also be useful to builders and facility designers, and health officers. Participants will be guided to where they can find more comprehensive information about RWI management topics. This seminar takes the participant through the basic steps of identifying the health threats present, unique features to those threats, understanding what the possible consequences would be, identifying ways to reduce the risks and finally, prioritizing the risk reduction. 12:00pm-1:30pm Lunch (visit exhibition) 1:30pm-2:20pm Disinfection Byproducts in Swimming Pools: Formation and Prevention Part 1 - Understanding Disinfection By-Products Chip Blatchley, Professor, Purdue University Disinfectants are used in recreational water to control microbial pathogens. The most commonly-applied disinfectants used in swimming pool facilities are chlorine, bromine, ozone, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. To varying degrees, all of these disinfectants are effective for controlling microbial pathogens. However, each of these disinfectants, whether used alone or in combination, will also participate in reactions with dissolved constituents in water to generate disinfection byproducts (DBPs). More than 100 DBPs have been identified in swimming pool water. The chemistry responsible for formation of some DBPs is now well-known; however, additional research is needed in this area. It appears that a large fraction of DBP formation in pools is attributable to reactions between disinfectants and compounds that are introduced to pools by swimmers, primarily in the form of urine, sweat, and personal care products. Some of the basic chemistry of these reactions will be reviewed briefly, along with a summary of the human health effects that have been linked or associated with these compounds. 3:00pm-3:50pm Disinfection Byproducts in Swimming Pools: Formation and Prevention Part 2 - Mitigating Disinfection By-Products Chip Blatchley, Professor, Purdue University To a large degree, DBP formation in pools is preventable. As such, the best opportunity to improve the swimming environment may be linked to improvements in swimmer hygiene habits. Information will be presented to illustrate the quantities of human body fluids (and

their constituents) that are introduced to pools by swimmers. This information will indicate the potential for improvement of swimming pool environments through adoption of appropriate hygiene habits by swimmers. In addition, other measures can also be applied to control or reduce the concentration of DBPs in pools. These include the inclusion of additional treatment processes that complement the effects of disinfectants. Some of these alternative methods will be presented. 4:00pm-4:50pm Vic Policies Rachael Poon, Senior scientist, Water Program During the 2012/2013 summer period an outbreak of Cryptosporidiosis was detected through the Victorian Department of Health’s surveillance system. An investigation identified swimming in aquatic facilities as a risk factor for the majority of interviewed cases. A Statewide response resulted in the Department of Health working closely with aquatic facilities to minimise further spread of illness. Aquatic facilities and the public play an important role in maintaining water quality. This outbreak is a timely reminder of the importance of preventive risk management, healthy swimming behaviour and ensuring the performance of treatment processes within aquatic facilities.

FRIDAY - 18 July 2014 8:30am-9:20am Developing legislation and a code of practice for aquatic facilities in Western Australia: the journey and lessons learned Llew Withers This presentation will describe the pillars of the ‘new’ legislation introduced in 2007 in WA with a Code of Practice designed to encompass all aspects of aquatic legislation in Western Australia for public pools. Classifying all aquatic water bodies based on their risk, introduction of mandatory supervision of swimmers in high risk facilities, trained technicians to maintain pools, at least daily chemical sampling and monthly water sampling for microbial parameters were introduced from the beginning. There have been a number of issues that continue not to be resolved and will reviewed in 2014 following direction from the State Government. These include water samples by other than local government officers, pools used in private dwellings when used for holiday accommodation, incorporating construction aspects of the Code of Practice into Australian Building Codes and managing aquatic risks for aquatic features that are not prescribed in legislation. 9:20am-9:50am Morning tea 9:50am-10:40am Model Aquatic Health Code Michele Hlavsa, Chief, U.S. CDC’s Healthy Swimming Program In 2005, U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) sponsored a workshop for public health officials and representatives of the aquatics sector to develop a strategic plan to countermand the increasing number of outbreaks of recreational water– associated illness annually reported to CDC. Workshop participants identified the lack of uniform national standards as the primary barrier to outbreak prevention and called on CDC to spearhead a national, all-stakeholder effort to create an open-access, science-based model pool code, now known as the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC; www.cdc.gov/mahc). To improve health and safety, the MAHC must address Cryptosporidium, pool chemical– associated health events, and drowning, and improve overall design, construction, operation, and maintenance. This is critical to the continued success and expansion of swimming as an activity associated with many positive health and psychological benefits. 10:50am-11:40am Improving quality and safety in the swimming pool industry through national qualifications Rob Stowell, Director, Learning Australia Rob will provide a brief overview of the reasons for establishing national qualifications for swimming pool technicians and the process involved in developing the qualifications. He will also look at the advantages for both employers and employees of having a national qualifications framework as well as the role that better trained technicians can play in ensuring the safety of pool users. Finally Rob will look at the challenges associated with introducing national qualifications and what the swimming pool and spa industry can do to ensure that it can realise the benefits of nationally recognised training.

Exciting Awards Announcement For the first time, SPLASH! will host the 2014 SPASA Australian Awards of Excellence. To be held on Thursday 17th July on the Gold Coast, the SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence recognise achievement in design, construction, innovation, and professionalism across the pool & spa industry. The Awards program gives recognition to SPASA members who have demonstrated the highest degree of competency and professionalism. “This year SPASA Australia has reinvigorated our awards categories and now include various product and spa categories as well as the most prestigious Builder Award in Australia – the SPASA Australia Pool of the Year. This will be fantastic – it’s truly the Best of the Best.” “The prime goal of the awards of excellence program is to generate an amazing array of images to stimulate immediate consumer demand. Our industry competes with many leisure and travel options, it’s time we stepped up and showed all of Australia the height of excellence that exists within the national pool and spa industry” said CEO, Brendan Watkins.

Venue & Accommodation

“SPLASH! is the ideal occasion on which the Awards can be presented” said Simon Cooper, Publisher of SPLASH! magazine. The SPASA Australia Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner will incorporate the fourth edition of the SPLASH! Environmental Awards. These Awards have gained international recognition promoting environmental and sustainable achievements.

594 superbly appointed guest rooms spread out over 21 floors with sweeping views across the Pacific to the east, and magnificent hinterland views to the west.

Jupiter’s Hotel & Casino offers comfort and luxury that never fails to impress delegates.

We have secured special accommodation rates at Jupiters, exclusive to visitors to SPLASH! 2014. Visit www.splashexpo.com.au or call 1300 789 845 for more details.

Welcome Reception The Swimming Pool and Spa Alliance (SPASA) is very proud to be the official sponsor of the 2014 SPLASH! Welcome Reception. The reception will be open to all participants at the show including visitors, speakers, exhibitors and training delegates, offering everyone the opportunity to meet and connect at the largest Australian gathering of the swimming pool and spa industry professionals alongside Jupiters award winning pool.

Andrew Simons Memorial Golf Day -18 July

We see our involvement as hosts of the Welcome Reception as our way saying THANK YOU to everyone for attending and supporting the Australian swimming Pool and spa industry.

This year’s event will be based on an 4 man ambrose as per last year but with a twist. Shootout Golf who will be co-ordinating the day specialise in offering a unique sudden death playoff format. This revolutionary system revolves around a super six draw which occurs at the end of the days play where six holes are chosen at random from the eighteen played. The eight teams with the best scores then playoff over two holes creating a unique professional tournament atmosphere where finalists of the day will play in front of a gallery made up of the days former combatants. As an exciting add on Palmer Gold Coast the host course of the day, along with Shootout Golf will provide the champions on the day with an airfare as part a holiday package to participate in the World shootout Championships in Las Vegas in 2015. Palmer Gold Coast formerly Robina provides a perfect backdrop for the event where the 17th and 18th are some of the best holes on the famous holiday strip. Just $120 +GST per person or hole sponsorship available.

Registration is now open! visit www.splashexpo.com.au or call 1300 789 845

commercial news

Disinfection

Commercial

news Global news . . . . . . . . . 66 Nine crocs found in Mount Isa pool . . . . . . . 66 Party leads to resignation . . . . . . . . . . 66 What is a public pool? . 67 World’s largest swimming lesson . . . . . 67 Certificates reap rewards . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Tenders . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 WAHC anniversary . . . . 70 Ventilation the key to healthy pools . . . . . . . . 74 Shining cascades . . . . . 79

First chlorine-free commercial pool approved in Australia Waterco’s newly released Hydroxypure chlorine-free swimming pool system has been given the tick of approval by the Gold Coast Council for ongoing use at the Turtle Beach Resort in Mermaid Beach, Queensland. This is believed to be the first large commercial pool in Australia to gain approval to operate without the use of chlorine. As a result of the approval, the Hydroxypure system will be rolled out across all of the resort’s pools, spas, water feature and proposed new $1 million water theme park. The decision follows a six-month evaluation of the Hydroxypure system, with Gold Coast Council’s Health, Regulatory and Lifeguard Services Branch approving the continued use and extension of use of the water treatment system. “We believe this is the first large commercial pool in Australia to be approved without chlorine,” says Bryan Goh, Waterco’s group marketing director. “We are thrilled that the system has been so successful at Turtle Beach and that the Council has given the okay for it to be rolled out across the Gold Coast.” Goh says the council was comprehensively briefed on the system prior to it being installed and it approved the initial six-month trial with a strict testing regime. “The resort has now been using the Hydroxypure system for the children’s pool and waterfall since May 2013 and we understand the chlorine-free pools are generating many compliments from guests,” he says. The council’s approval was based on the satisfactory results of the bacteriological water quality testing which was carried out during the trial

The Turtle Beach Resort in Queensland

period in 2013. According to the tests, the chlorine-free method of disinfection has maintained the levels required by council. The extended use and installation of the Hydroxypure system across Turtle Beach’s water assets will require quarterly bacteriological water quality testing to ensure that bather load, weather conditions and future development of components and/ or chemicals validates the results witnessed during the trial. This testing will be carried out over 12 months, and will be undertaken and analysed by a National Association of Testing Authority (NATA) registered laboratory.

Awards

Freney named Young Australian of the Year

Jacqueline Freney

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Being born with cerebral palsy has not stopped Jacqueline Freney from achieving greatness in the sporting arena. Following in the footsteps of her swimming family, she set herself the goal to become a competitive swimmer. In 2012, Freney won a remarkable eight gold medals at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, becoming Australia’s most successful Paralympian at a single Games. Two of her performances were under world record time. She won a gold medal for every event in which

she competed and her gold medal haul was greater than any other competitor from any country. Her success earned her the crown of Australia’s 2012 Paralympian of the Year. Freney’s indomitable spirit is not confined to the swimming pool. She is actively involved in the wider community, working with Swimming Australia as a motivational speaker to help other people with disabilities reach their potential. The judges said she is an inspirational role model and positive proof that,

with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Meanwhile, Cate Campbell won a swag of awards at the Swimming Australia awards night, being named Swimmer of the Year, People’s Choice and Swimmer’s Swimmer for 2013. Campbell, who had to overcome career setbacks from sickness, including glandular fever, post-viral fatigue, hip injuries, pancreatitis and a broken arm, outplaced fellow world champions James Magnussen and Christian Sprenger at the awards.

21-23 June 2015 ABS Showground, Auckland New Zealand

Events

Peppa promo for premmies Peppa Pig and her family have teamed up with Life’s Little Treasures Foundation to support the families of premature and sick babies. The Big Splash is a national event in which toddlers and young children are sponsored to splash like Peppa Pig. Between the March 1 and April 30, 2014, the foundation is encouraging children around Australia to seek sponsorship from family and friends to splash for five minutes. A Big Splash event can happen anywhere: in a paddling pool, in

the bath, at the beach, at a local pool or even in a puddle. The foundation is asking swim schools to run their Big Splash sessions over the last week of the first swimming term, and aquatic centres to run a public event where each centre can choose a date and time in March or April. To learn more about the work of Life’s Little Treasures Foundation go to www.lifeslittletreasures.org.au.

In Brief The Aquatic and Recreation Institute (ARI) is celebrating a big anniversary this year, with its 50th Annual Conference being held on May 29 and 30 at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC). For more information go to: www.aquaticinstitute.com.au. The Waingaro Hot Springs in New Zealand is in hot water over the safety of its facilities. Fairfax NZ reports the Waikato District Council has served notice on the springs in relation to the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 and clauses of the New Zealand Building Code. Fencing has since been erected to isolate sections of the facility deemed unsafe or which could pose a risk to the public and staff,

including the hot water bore, speed slide, hydro slide and main swimming pool. Waikato District Council says it is at the discretion of the owners whether they will remain open, considering that now most of the facility can’t be used. Queensland Heath is launching a campaign promoting healthy swimming by focussing on personal hygiene and pool avoidance when suffering certain illnesses such as chickenpox, Cryptosporidiosis or Tinea pedis. They will distribute printed materials such as a brochure, flyer and poster as well as circulating press releases and social media updates. For more information go to the QuickLink tab at splashmagazine.com.au.

For the second time SPLASH! New Zealand will be co-located with buildnz & designex, offering pool manufacturers access to more than 5000 industry professionals. SPLASH! is a must attend event for manufactures, pool builders, water consultants, architects and pool service companies.

Supported By

To exhibit at buildnz|designex within the SPLASH! pavilion please email Karen at kjaques@intermedia.com.au or phone +61 2 8586 6135 NZ 0800 451 590

www.splashnzexpo.co.nz

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

commercial news

Global news Siemens Water Technologies has been bought by AEA Investors LP for 640 million euros. AEA has secured regulatory approvals and closed on an agreement to acquire Siemens’ municipal, industrial and services water and wastewater treatment assets and operations. The new company name in Australia is Evoqua Water Technologies Pty Ltd with offices and sales representation in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth and distribution partners across Australia and New Zealand. FINA Arena is the new partnership in the swimming world following Arena’s announcement as the new FINA sponsor, replacing Speedo at all of the international governing body’s events. The agreement runs from 2014 to 2019. Spas of America has announced its top North American spas of 2013, and three of the top five are part of the Biggest Loser franchise: in Chicago (1), Niagara (2)and Utah (5). The other two were Relache Spa in Nashville (4) and 100 Fountain Spa in Ontario (5). Camp Counselors USA (CCUSA) is looking for Australian lifesavers and lifeguards to escape the southern winter and work in an American summer camp in 2014. Application fees apply. Over the past 27 years, CCUSA has found placements for 30,000 Aussies. Contact: www.ccusa.com.au.

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Some of the crocodiles found by Brian Rodriquez

Wildlife

Mt Isa pool manager finds nine crocs in pool Mt Isa public pool manager Brian Rodriquez got more than he bargained for when a lap swimmer said there was something in the pool. “I don’t want to alarm you,” he told Rodriquez. “But I think it might be a crocodile.” It wasn’t a crocodile – it was five crocodiles, and later four more were found. All were about 30cm

long, and posed no real danger to anyone. Rodriquez believes the baby freshwater crocodiles were put in the pool by pranksters, but at first he was concerned the mother or father crocodile might be lurking about as well. Eight of the crocodiles were released into the wild by a ranger. One succumbed to the excitement.

Waterparks

Cancelled W‘n’W party leads to resignation of security manager The head of security at Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney, Brad Kisbee, has resigned amid revelations he played a role in awarding a contract to Unimet Security – a company he reportedly has strong links with. The park was unable to satisfy police that they, security contractor Unimet or party organisers One Cube Entertainment had an adequate crowd safety management plan for a planned New Year’s Eve party. The party was then cancelled with only six hours’ notice, leaving 9000

revellers seeking alternate venues. Village Roadshow Theme Park (VRTP) refunded the hiring fee to One Cube so they could reimburse ticketholders. While the cancellation of the party was embarrassing for Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney, the story gained greater traction following an investigation by Fairfax journalist Eamonn Duff. On January 19, Kisbee resigned after it emerged investigators from the NSW Police State Crime Command were reviewing issues relating to the

awarding of security contracts. Duff also claims on smh. com.au that despite Kisbee denying any relationship with Unimet owner Natalie Eggenhuizen, Kisbee was in a de-facto relationship with her and that they live together with two children in Richmond. Duff also claims Kisbee had been involved in Eggenhuizen’s business for years. VRTP confirmed the park had accepted Kisbee’s resignation and was reviewing the ancillary security contract with Unimet.

Regulations

What is a public pool? Public pools in New South Wales must abide by the regulations raised from the Public Health Act. The Public Health Act 2010 (NSW) commenced on September 1, 2012 and aims to improve public health by controlling public health risks and infectious diseases. References relating to swimming pools and spa pools took effect on March 1, 2013. These changes in legislation mean that all public pools and spa pools must comply with the Prescribed Operative Requirements and Disinfection Standards set out in the Public Health Regulation 2012 (NSW). But what exactly are a public pools and spa pools? The Swimming Pool and Spa Alliance has put together a comprehensive document describing exactly what constitutes a public pool and what does not. The document also outlines the new requirements for public pools. Here is a summary, but the full document is available at splashmagazine.com.au on the QuickLinks tab.

What is a public pool?

A “public pool” is a “swimming pool” or “spa pool” where the general public is admitted either for a fee or free of charge, and includes: a. a pool to which the public is admitted as an entitlement of membership of a club, or b. a pool provided at a workplace for the use of employees, or c. a pool provided at a hotel, motel or guest house or at holiday units, or similar facility, for the use of guests, or d. a pool provided at a school or hospital, but not including a pool situated at private residential premises. A “swimming pool” includes any structure that is used or intended to be used for human bathing, swimming or diving, and includes a water slide or other recreational aquatic structure. A “spa pool” includes any structure (other than a swimming pool) that a. holds more than 680 litres of water, and b. is used or intended to be used for human bathing, and

c. has facilities for injecting jets of water or air into the water. Note: A swimming pool or spa pool is not a “public pool” when it is located on any private residential premises. Consequently, pools located in premises such as high rise residential, retirement villages, backyard learn to swim or any pool located on any private residential premises, even if it is commercial in nature, is not a “public” swimming pool or spa pool.

Risk factors for public pools

There are three different risk categories of pools which require the implementation of different water management plans to remain compliant. The Public Swimming Pool and Spa Advisory Document highlights the following risk categories. Category 1 - Highest risk: High risk pools include spa pools, hydrotherapy pools, baby and infant learn to swim pools, infant wading pools,

water features in pools, pools used by incontinent people, or a pool with three or more of the following risk factors: pH greater than 7.6 in a chlorinated pool; consistently poor disinfection (previous chemical or bacteriological criteria failures); high turbidity; poor pool circulation and/or filtration; high bather loads; presence of algae; regular use by birds e.g. ducks etc; easy access of foreign material e.g. litter biofilms detected. Category 2 - Medium risk: Swimming pools > 26°C (except Category 1 pools); wave, river and low depth (<1 m) leisure pools; higher risk pools. Category 3 - Low risk: Swimming pools < 26°C (except Category 1 and 2 pools); diving pools; low and infrequent bathing load pools. Further information can be found in the SPASA document and the Public Swimming Pool and Spa Pool Advisory document, both available on the QuickLink tab at splashmagazine.com.au.

LTS

World’s largest swimming lesson On Friday, June 20, 2014, tens of thousands of participants from hundreds of locations around the globe will team up to help prevent childhood drowning by spreading the word that swimming lessons save lives. The international team, made up primarily of kids, will unite for the fifth year in a row to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest swimming lesson ever conducted. The global record attempt for The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL), will take place at 3pm GMT. That will be early morning in Australia, but some keen facilities may still like to participate. Team WLSL holds the current Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson, which stands at 32,450 participants hosted by 432 facilities in 13 countries.

Contact: www.wlsl.org

February-March 2014 SPLASH! 67

commercial news

LTS

Certificates reaps rewards Melbourne-based swim franchise Paul Sadler Swimland has recently adopted a new certificate-based system they say is enriching the development of its students, and through which children three years and over are recognised for achieving four milestones:

Maxi Pink certificate: a child is recognised for being an independent swimmer and can perform freestyle and backstroke. To celebrate, they’re awarded a “Goggle License” and a voucher for a pair of goggles. Up till this point, the children had been kept from wear-

ing goggles to ensure they became completely comfortable in water. Green certificate: a child completes the Swordy 1km Gold Medal, unaided and consistent. They’re now ready to participate in recreational water-based activities and are shown a video on the different options available from surfing to water polo. Charcoal certificate: a child gains entry to the Sub 45 Club by completing a 3km swim unaided and has participated confidently in an open-water swim, designed to help children cope with changing water condition. Swimland Diploma: following these three achievements, each child is presented with a Swimland Diploma which demonstrates that they have achieved all areas of swimming development. The swim school enterprise has more than 27,000 students participating in lessons each week, and has just celebrated forty years in the industry. Contact: www.paulsadlerswimland.com

ARI NSW Celebrates its 50th Annual Conference & Trade Show!

Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre 29th—30th May 2014 A not to be missed event! This year’s program will include both operational and Management streams as well as the most up-to-date industry products and information all under the one roof

For program & Booking information visit Www.aquaticinstitute.com.au

68 SPLASH! February-March 2014

LGA

Upcoming tenders Lithgow City Council

Lithgow Aquatic Centre Stage 4 Updated Expression of Interest (EOI 02/14) Suitably experienced contractors to undertake the construction of Stage 4 of the Lithgow Aquatic Centre for a contract to refurbish the existing 50m Outdoor Olympic Pool and associated plant. Companies with demonstrated similar local government experience will be favoured. Contract: Maddison Bailey, (02) 6354 9999 Update: Closing Wednesday 26th February 2014 at 10.00AM Documents: www.lithgow.nsw.gov.au

City of Lake Macquarie

Charlestown Pool Rectification Works Request for Tender (T960) Rectification of 25 and 50 metre pools at the Charlestown Swimming Centre. Closing 4th March, 2014 at 2pm. Further information and documentation: Lake Macquarie City Council, (02) 4921 0333 www.lakemac.com.au

Rockhampton Regional Council

Management & Operation of Four Aquatic Facilities and One Restaurant/Café. Expression of Interest 10982. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Contracts and Tenders Unit, on 1300 22 55 77. Expressions of Interest suitably endorsed and addressed to the Chief Executive Oﬃcer, PO Box 1860, Rockhampton Qld 4700 and marked with the EOI number and description, will be received up to the closing time of 2pm on Wednesday, March 5, 2014. Expressions of Interest should be posted to the above address or placed in the Tender Box at the Public Oﬃce of Rockhampton Regional Council, Bolsover Street, Rockhampton. Documents: www.rockhamptonregion.qld. gov.au

Lachlan Shire Council

Request for Tender: Design, Supply and Installation of Condobolin Swimming Pool Filtration Plant Upgrade

Documents: Lachlan Shire Council, Infrastructure Services Department, Molong Street Condobolin, (02) 6895 1900 www.lachlan.nsw.gov.au Closing 7th March 2014 at 3pm

City of Ballarat

Ballarat 50m Pool and Aquatic Play Space at BALC Potential Work Packages include: Concreting, Electrical, Fire Services, Floor Coverings, Glazing, Hydraulic Services, Joinery, Mechanical Services, Mechanical Services, Painting, Pool Hydraulics, Roofing, Structural Steel, Tiling including pool and pool decks, change areas and public areas, Waterproofing. For further information and for registration, please visit: http://gateway.icn. org.au/ Tier 1 Closes: 1 Jun 2014 For more tenders contact Cordell on 1800 674 120.

Drowning it’s the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1-5. it shouldn’t be. register now to be an official Host Location for wLSL 2014 on Friday, June 20 and help spread the word, Swimming Lessons Save Lives™. Drowning is preventable. Your support can make the difference.

wLSL.org | +1-913-599-0300

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

commercial news

Happy anniversary,

World Aquatic Health Conference By Alan Lewis

Below: Attentive delegates keen to learn about the latest science in the aquatic world Below right: Dr James Amburgey talked about disinfection by-products

he World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC) celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. The significance of this anniversary is emphasised by the prolific emergence of many new and important initiatives undertaken since the appointment of Dr Thomas Lachocki in December 2003 as the CEO by the National Swimming Pool Foundation Board of Directors. Lachocki came to this appointment with a broad background and a great deal of experience in chemistry, research, education and business development which stood him on good ground to tackle vital issues affecting the swimming pool industry. In 2003, the board contracted an update of the NSPF Pool and Spa Operator Handbook by the well-respected Ronald Ford from Florida, whose reputation as an NSPF instructor was well known. This project was given top priority and since then has formed the basic text for the Certified Pool Operator (CPO) program. The handbook has constantly been upgraded over the past decade and operator training has gained momentum and is now formally being adopted by many states in Australia. Every conference is preceded with a fresh course for CPOs from around the world. More than 300,000 professionals now hold this certification and are required to do a refresher course every five years. These courses are available online and the appointment of Dr Alex Antoniou has added dramatic impetus to the expansion of the programs which now reach more than 86 countries.

70 SPLASH! February-March 2014

The declared objective of the foundation is to “encourage healthy living by increasing aquatic activity through education and research”. This is being achieved through several initiatives which include a research program which has awarded more than $US4 million in grants since 2003. A scholarship and fellowship program has reinforced NSPF’s commitment to education. The annual World Aquatic Health Conference offers an unmatched educational and networking event in which scientific advances and emerging trends and technologies are highlighted and scrutinised. The Foundation has also formed a partnership with Human Kinetics to publish the first scientific scholarly journal in the field: the International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education. The latest initiatives have been the granting of start-up funds to create a Model Aquatic Health Code which is intended to help reduce waste and confusion amongst the various health authorities, by opening a door to this science-based model which is implemented by the Centers for Disease Control in the USA. Also a new campaign called “Step In To Swim” has been launched to create one million more swimmers over the next decade, to reduce drowning, injuries and disease and chemical exposure. The objective to see more aquatic activities amongst our ageing societies helps overcome the consequences of sedentary lifestyles. The 10th anniversary world conference, like its predecessors, stood out in the way it faced up to the

Left: Michele Hlavsa updated delegates on the microbiological survey of filter backwash samples. She will also be presenting at the WAHC at SPLASH! on the Gold Coast in July, 2014. Right: Chip Blatchley dealt with urine in pool water and summarised the chemistry of reactions with respect to air and water quality. He will also be presenting at the Gold Coast

concerns with which world aquatic scientists are struggling. In this conference there appeared some outstanding revelations which I shall briefly cover below, and leave to another time to cover in more detail. There were more than 50 seminars in eight streams.

Public health codes

A microbiological survey of filter backwash samples and review of hot tub/spa outbreaks has prompted much misunderstanding which was clarified by Michele Hlavsa. Other seminars included Preventing Outbreaks and Other Illnesses by Michael J Beach PhD (CDC); and Working with Building Departments and Environmental Health to mitigate these problems by Lee Clifton. The work on the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) continues to preoccupy its principal promoters – namely the Centres for Disease Control and the NSPF in the USA. This conference marked steady and continued progress in improvements to many concepts which affect the health of swimmers and are being delineated with better codes for management of the water and the air in aquatic centres both in the USA and around the world.

Recreational water illness prevention

There were reports from the International Conference on Swimming Pool and Spa, Rome 2013 from Dr James Amburgey and Dr Laura Suppes, dealing with key advances in science and regulations; and advanced studies in DBPs and microbiology. Amburgey’s presentation was particularly interesting. In the best traditions of true science, while standing in front of lectern embellished with the sponsor’s sign – a UV company – he was brave enough to show a slide titled “UV’s dark side?”. He said “we know UV is good at

inactivating cryptosporidium and removing trichloramines, but what if it also increases DBFs?” He mentioned some European research that showed: • UV caused THM formation to 204+ (micrograms/litre) – an increase of 44 per cent • Haloacetonitriles (HANs) increased by more than 219 per cent when chlorinated post UV (France) • Medium pressure UV removes combined chlorine (including trichloramines) in reactor effluent, but higher concentrations were observed in the pool because the UV made the organics more reactive (findings in Germany) He also talked about how: • In Portugal, four of 27 pools showed THMs 14.8 per cent higher than the 100 ppb directive • Italy: 24 indoor pools tested THMS 41+ in relation to the 30 ppb requirement; HAAs 170+ over the 122ppb requirement; bromates 12.55 range from 10 – 48 ppb; chlorates 4.7+ / over the 5.8 ppm requirement. • France tested seawater pools and found THMs 60-1300 ppb and HAAs 2002500 ppb. He said UV does good things, but not everything it does is necessarily good. These results simply show the downside of UV mainly (but not only) because of the necessity to re-chlorinate after the water passes through the UV generator where it also removes the free active chlorine at the same time. In Australia we can only be warned that we must begin some serious studies if

we want to know whether or not our conditions are similar. Clearly, the 195 researchers from 22 countries (including Australia) who participated in this conference brought a lot of evidence that important research sheds new light on world standards and regulations, and “lessons learned the hard way” with regard to the effects of excessive concentrations of hypochlorite. Urea has also been found in higher than expected residuals in many European countries, and is probably one of the main untested DBPs present in Australian pools.

Disinfection by-products

Dr Judy Lakind and Dr Ernest R. Blatchley III dealt with urine in pool water and summarised the chemistry of reactions with respect to air and water quality; the importance of working to change societal norms relating to urinating in pools was one of the main themes at this conference. This was supplemented with a brain storming session led by Edgar Papke focussing on steps that will reduce urination in pools. “Chip” Blatchley illuminated with conviction that urea (in sweat and urine) can lead to a marked increase in nitrogen trichloride in any pool and hence the vital necessity to insist on showering before bathing. In the absence of this discipline we can continue to expect poorer quality water. This will warrant a separate and more detailed article to elucidate just how urea affects our swimming enjoyment so adversely.

“The annual World Aquatic Health Conference offers an unmatched educational and networking event in which scientific advances and emerging trends and technologies are highlighted and scrutinised.” February-March 2014 SPLASH! 71

commercial news

of people suffering from pain for one reason or another who can find speedy relief through this therapy. “AquaStretch appears to be clinically superior to all existing physical therapy modalities to restore flexibility and reduce pain in approximately 60 per cent of all rehabilitation patients,” she said.

Natural technology

Here a series of presentations covered surprising values of sphagnum moss; moringa oliefera seeds; and using plants instead of chemicals – presented by proponents of BioNova.

New industry technology

Dr Alex Antoniou, NSPF Director of Educational Programs, will be talking about recreational water illness prevention at the Gold Coast. This photo is from SPLASH! on the Gold Coast, 2012.

Facility management

Ben Smith presented several ideas in Programming Across a Lifetime; Adrian Montoya spoke on Managing a Successful Competitive Aquatic Facility and Dr Sherril York dealt with factors which allow inclusion of all sectors of the population.

Drowning prevention

The National Drowning Prevention Alliance has developed a number of ways in which to arrest the slow but significant statistical increase in drowning incidents, in spite of the many programs, initiatives and missions working on engaging with the public and developing successful educational programs to increase safety awareness around pools. Sue Nelson and Kim Burgess dealt with best practice in this area.

Health benefits

One of the outstanding and surprising presentations came from Dr Jessica Huss who presented the science behind a new technique for hydrotherapy called AquaStretch. Courses have now been taught throughout the US and recently in Japan, Russia and several European countries. This very effective technique uses the immersion in hot water to manipulate and dramatically relieve pain in the short space of 20-30 minutes. Undoubtedly this new technique will spread quickly because of its immediacy and lasting effectiveness over up to 6 months or so after treatment. The impact of this new approach to hydrotherapy will have important outcomes for the future of the aquatic industry. Having witnessed this in action at the conference, I am impressed that there are thousands upon thousands

WAHC is coming to Australia SPLASH! on the Gold Coast 2014 will be hosting the World Aquatic Health Conference for the first time in Australia. There is more on this ground-breaking and very exciting initiative on page 10.

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Advances in probe and controller technologies: Jim Tanner and Dustin Kauffman from Prominent; and Ray Denkewicz (a Hayward scientist) presented up-to-date advances in cogeneration of UV, ozone and hydroxyl radicals, and their strategic use for aquatic treatment. This is a very promising new development which makes very intelligent use of well-known chemical truths to apply a new configuration of UV (low pressure) to produce ozone at lower temperature – so that it can be more effective in the presence of chlorine. It was found that this leads to an increase in the production of hydroxyl radicals which are known as one of the best oxidants (second only to fluorine) that nature has to offer – and therefore result in elevated disinfection with fewer by-products. Since, on average, every bather releases 0.14 grams of faecal matter into a pool and skin cells produce trihalomethanes (THMs) in the reaction with ambient free chlorine; this new line of attack promises (and has in fact already been proven) to be effective in dealing with Crypto P. and Giardia; E. Coli; P.aeruginosa, Novoviruses, and other pathogens. It is the synergy between the UV and the ozone that covers all that is necessary to get a 3 log (to one millionth) reduction of all the bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungal health risks found in pools. At the same time it is also very effective in chloramine reduction and urea oxidation, and reduces the need for free chlorine residuals in the pool. Even more promising – a hypothetical analysis showed that a future UV-ozone reactor costing $6000 could bring about huge savings in chlorine (liquid or granular) and can do that with much lower ozone outputs (about 60 per cent of the conventional dosing). We await with great anticipation for the final development of this reactor which should prove vital in making disinfection more cost effective for aquatic facilities everywhere.

Special guests

Two special guests rounded out the motivational aspects of the conference: “America’s Swim Mom” Deborah Phelps (mother of US swim champ Michael Phelps) and Catherine Garceau. Garceau is an Olympian and wellness coach who inspires aquatic scientists to work harder at finding ways to reduce the chlorine levels which lead to undesirable disinfection by-products. From all of the above, it is clear that Australia has a lot to learn from what is going on around the world and indeed to invest and emulate the advanced countries in aquatic investigation and scientific research devoted to striving for better healthier swimming water. ■

POOL & SPA TRADE SHOW 20-21 May 2013

Pool & Spa Trade Show 27-28 May 2015 Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

For more information visit www.piscinesplashasia.com or call SING 8006 163 169, AUST 1300 789 845, NZ 0800 451 590 Platinum Sponsor

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commercial feature

Ventilation the key to healthy swimming pools By Samuel Park

ome pool halls overpower you with the strong smell of chlorine; in extreme cases, you only need to enter the surrounding areas to get a whiff of it. But it surprises some people to learn that this smell we often associate with public swimming pools actually comes from disinfectant by-products (DBP), not the chlorine itself. Unfortunately, one of the major flaws prevalent throughout indoor aquatic centres is an inadequate ventilation system. Most often the air in the cavity above the pool is being ventilated to keep the air fresh but it does nothing to address the dangerous gases that build up directly above the surface of the water. Trichloramine has been shown to have adverse effects on the health of swimmers and staff working around the pool area, as well as damaging the structure of the building. The question the industry must ask is, why do we still allow these gases to build up, when we know the dangers and have the ability to design or retrofit ventilation systems that effectively deal with the potential for danger?

Dangers associated with chloramines

Chloramines come about from the interaction between the chlorine used to disinfect the pool water and the

74 SPLASH! February-March 2014

Above: Air Change recently installed units at some of Virgin’s centres, including the ACRTP 100 % Outside Air and PoolPac units Below: Good ventilation is essential to reduce risks from DBPs

amines that are introduced into the pool by swimmers. The residual chlorine in the water (present as a dissolved gas, hypochlorous acid, and a hypochlorite ion) is known as free chlorine. When free chlorine interacts with amines it forms monochloramine and water. The monochloramine then interacts with the free chlorine and forms dichloramine and water. Finally, if the dichloramine interacts with free chlorine, it produces trichloramine and water. Trichloramine (another name for nitrogen trichloride or NCl3) is the most severe respiratory irritant. The free chlorine can also interact with skin cells to produce chloroform (CHCl3), a somewhat hazardous chemical. Both chloroform and chloramines are volatile chemicals, meaning that they easily change from their liquid state into a gaseous form. Swimmers agitating the water cause this transformation, releasing the chemical into the air where they linger just above the surface of the water, generally the lowest point in the pool hall. The air directly above the surface of the water is the air that swimmers will be inhaling into their lungs as they take breaths during their laps. The inhalation of chloramines has been shown to inhibit the healthy functioning of lungs while also causing skin and eye irritation. The adverse effects of chloramines are increased in correlation with the amount of time spent being exposed to the chemical. This means that elite athletes training in the pool as well as those people who work in and around the pool are at a greater risk of developing problems than a casual swimmer. This was one of the findings in a 2002 Belgian study from the Catholic University of Louvain titled “Lung hyperpermeability and asthma prevalence in schoolchildren: unexpected associations with the attendance at indoor chlorinated swimming pools”. Another potential danger the chloramines pose is corrosion on the pool hall structure itself. In lower grades of stainless steel, chloramines can cause stress corrosion cracking (SCC) which resulted in the total collapse of the roof at a pool in Switzerland in 1985. Where the usage is

safety-critical or load-bearing, lower grades of stainless steel must not be used. This has become standard throughout the industry although lower grades still can be used for non-structural elements.

The importance of fresh air

Chlorine is used to disinfect the water in public pools to stop bacteria and waterborne diseases from building up and infecting swimmers. But overuse of chlorine can cause problems, as can the introduction of amines to the water. Amines are organic compounds derived from ammonia and are present in urea – a chemical compound found in urine as well as in perspiration and skin. If swimmers do not shower prior to entering the pool then they introduce these amines into the water, starting off the chemical process outlined earlier. This chemical process requires free chlorine in each of the steps. The more free chlorine that is present in the water the faster the transition from monochloramine to dichloramine to trichloramine. According to Paul Stevenson, director of aquatic engineering consultants Stevenson & Associates, a big problem with indoor commercial swimming pool ventilation is the non-compliance with the recently revised standards. These standards determine the quality of the air being used in the pool hall, mandating that fresh air be used to ventilate the pool hall, as opposed to recirculated air. “If you comply with that, you will have a relatively trouble free pool hall,” he says. Using recirculated air was common in the past, however recycling the air exacerbates the potential problems associated with chloramines as it allows them to build up to dangerous levels. “Full fresh air significantly minimises the chloramine issues,” says Stevenson. February-March 2014 SPLASH! 75

commercial feature

Virgin Active The Virgin Active Australia network of fitness clubs is rapidly expanding and becoming a visible brand in the Australian health and aquatic scene. Air Change recently installed units at some of Virgin’s centres, including the AC-RTP 100 per cent Outside Air and PoolPac units. Virgin Active Clubs are made up of three main areas; the gym zone, aquatics zone and mind & body zone. Air Change provided a range of units including PoolPac and Rooftop Packaged units for the ventilation of the pool and the change room areas. This was chosen as it provides an energy efficient solution using the aforementioned heat recovery system, which simultaneously ventilates, reduces moisture and conditions the air. Air Change recently installed HVAC units at Virgin Frenchs Forest, Norwest and Sydney CBD centres. Air Change’s heat exchange technology allowed Virgin Active to provide high air quality with greater efficiency than conventional cooling unit; saving on energy costs while being environmentally sustainable.

Virgin Active Australia pool at French’s Forest

• Consultant: David Shreeve and Associates • Installation: FDC Mechanical • Architect: BVN Architecture • Location: Frenchs Forest and Baulkham Hills, NSW • Air Change: PoolPac 5000 L/s (Frenchs Forest) & PoolPac 6500 L/s Main Pool; PoolPac 5000 L/s Kids Pool; Rooftop Packaged Unit 100% OA 70kW Change room (Baulkham Hills)

The other major flaw that allows for chloramines to build up to dangerous levels in pool halls is a ventilation system that is inadequate for the purposes of removing chloramines. Many ventilation systems filter the air that rises into the cavity above the pool. The problem with this is that chloramines and other DBPs are heavier than air, thus naturally gravitating to the lowest points within the pool hall. They will not rise up of their own accord to be filtered out and replaced with fresh air. Use of clever design and using better ventilation and water treatment techniques can overcome all of these problem.

Effective solutions

There are solutions to effectively remove chloramines from the water and the air around the pool. Aquazure pool consultant Alan Lewis says that one of the most important steps is to encourage swimmers to shower prior to entering the pool, as that will reduce the level of amines initially introduced to the pool water, thus reducing the generation of monochloramine. “A lot of misinformation exists in the public arena about the importance of being clean in public pools,” says Lewis. “Public figures such as Michael Phelps, American Olympian, have claimed that it is okay to pee in the pool. Additionally many people believe the due to the presence of chlorine in the water there is no need to shower as the chlorine will disinfect anything that is carried into the pool. Both these ideas are erroneous and need to be actively combatted.” When designing a new pool hall it is recommended that the showers are placed as close to the pool’s edge as possible, so that swimmers can easily shower before swimming. Immersion in a body of water naturally causes people to feel the need to urinate. Placement of the bathrooms is therefore crucial to encourage swimmers to exit the pool in order to urinate. Beyond encouraging better practices amongst the patrons using the pool there are several ways in which 76 SPLASH! February-March 2014

the systems put in place to treat the air and the water can be bettered. Guidelines differ from state to state throughout Australia, although they all recommend that ultra violet (UV) treatment or ozone treatment be used in indoor pool circulation systems in addition to chlorine disinfection. UV systems treat the water as an additional disinfectant and help break down chloramines. Breaking down trichloramine is achieved by destroying the bond between the nitrogen and chlorine with high intensity light between wavelengths 180 to 400 nanometres (nm). UV light also serves to inactivate certain micro-organisms such as Cryptosporidium parvum. Somewhat more controversial as an option, ozone is available to treat the water, though it requires a highly skilled operator and designer to ensure it is operating at safe levels according to NSW guidelines. Ozone is a powerful disinfectant, but cannot be relied upon as a sole source of disinfection due it its instability – it disappears quickly from water. But it is very effective at controlling chloramines and allows for the free chlorine levels to be significantly reduced.

Effective solutions

Another important element to consider is the way that air and water is circulated. Injecting water at the bottom of the pool from both sides drives the streams into the middle, where they meet, rise up to the surface and then naturally spread towards the edges. This flow of water carries with it the skin cells that bathers have shed, that would otherwise be sitting on the bottom of the pool interacting with the disinfectants, and takes them into the gutter at the edge. Removing that contaminant means that less DBPs are generated as there are less particles for the chlorine to interact with. Research suggests that it is important that the air being ventilated into the pool hall is being directed correctly. Rather than simply removing the air from the cavity above the pool, it should be directed so that

it drives the air across the surface of the pool. By doing this it will drive the gases out of the space where swimmers will breathe it in. To effect this, the ventilation system should be placed at the lowest position where the gases are driven towards it. This allows for the quick removal of most gases and drastically reduces the potential dangers that exist from DBPs.

New methods

Lewis has recently designed a hydrotherapy pool at Hirondelle Private Hospital in Chatswood, utilising many of these elements. (Visiting the pool, I was struck that, even though it was heated to 38 degrees, there was no chloramine smell present.) Lewis has set up a unique system including innovative filtration techniques from Denmark and Sweden that agitate the water prior to returning it to the pool, thus removing the trichloramines as well as using carefully monitored ozone and a ventilation system at the same level as the water. The ventilation system being used pushes air in a circular motion, ensuring that the DBPs are being driven across the surface of the pool into the gutter. Once in the gutter the gases are drawn away to be removed effectively. The pool will be profiled in more detail in the next issue of SPLASH!

Rather than simply removing the air from the cavity above the pool, it should be directed so that it drives the air across the surface of the pool Lewis says that despite the fact that research shows a clear link between trichloramines and the effects they have on the normal functioning of the lungs, there has been very little movement in Australia to effectively deal with it. He says that when designing a new pool, all the elements should be incorporated in order to drastically reduce the level of trichloramine present in the pool hall. This includes ventilating the space in a way that effectively removes the gases, encouraging better behaviour from the swimmers, and reducing the amount of free chlorine in the pool at any one time through additional disinfection processes. This will reduce the chlorine smell that we associate with pool halls as well reduce the potential irritation that trichloramines cause to the skin, eyes and lungs as well as the potential for corrosion to occur. â&#x2013; Contacts: Aquazure: (02) 9363 9003; Stevenson & Associates: www.engineers.stevenson.net

C O M M E R C I A L

STRENGTH TRUST

THE BEHIND PRODUCTS YOU

Commercial pumps â&#x20AC;ş Commercial Filters â&#x20AC;ş Commercial Chlorinators

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February-March 2014

SPLASH!

Visit the all new SPLASH! website splashmagazine.com.au

SPLASH! has reinvigorated its digital communication with a new website, redesigned newsletter and a targeted social media program. The website has a more visual focus and includes more videos, a dedicated Asian section and is fully integrated with social media including Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Google+. Archived editions of the magazine are downloadable (apart from the current edition) in a new interactive format, making them easier to peruse. Go to splashmagazine.com.au and have a look.

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Shining cascades of relaxation Above: The curved stainless steel mimics the atrium

The project includes an external lagoon

ucked away between France and Spain in the Principality of Andorra is Caldea, Europe’s largest spa centre. Located in Escaldes-Engordany, the complex has become one of the most popular places to relax in hot spring water. Last year, Fluidra (the parent company of AstralPool) designed a new hot spring area as part of the Inúu wellness centre attached to the Caldea spa complex. The Inúu centre covers a total surface area of 12,400m2, of which 2580m2 is taken up by the spectacular hot spring area. The project is made up of three indoor lagoons at different levels that flow into each other through cascades, and an outdoor lagoon. In total, the lagoons contain 72,000 litres of hot spring water. All of the pools are curved in shape, and there is a multitude of aquatic wellness facilities available, including water massage beds and water jets. The project fits in perfectly with the building’s architecture, designed by the French architect Jean-Michel Ruols. The seams on the pool shell, made of stainless steel, have been arranged in a radial pattern that mirrors the focal point of the glass atrium which virtually sits on the channel of the river Valira. To enhance bathers’ enjoyment and relaxation, the atmosphere of the pools can be modified through the latest lighting systems that reflect colour in the stainless steel, and sound systems that play soothing background music. It is expected that more than 40,000 people will visit the new facilities annually.

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

THE NE T GENERATION PHOSPHATE REMOVER

REMOVES HIGH PHOSPHATE LEVELS

NO PHOSPHATES NO ALGAE

...because it works

...BECAUSE IT WORKS

AVAILABLE NOW Phone: 1-800 64 7665 www.lochlor.com.au

new products

Having a chat with Christina, Henry and Athina The Imaisde studio was born in the Spanish city of A Coruña in 2006 with the aim of applying design trends to a variety of new products. They have now come up with the Chat range – what they say is the first range of designer inflatables in history.

Henry is for sun bathing or sitting; Athina is perfect for relaxing with your feet up.

Each inflatable includes six hooks so they can connect to each other, and you can chat with your friends in the swimming pool or the sea. Also, each inflatable has its own personality. Christina is for sharing your inflatable while you read a book;

The previous run of Chat was sold out, and designer Pablo Crespo Pita is looking for more distributors, including in Australia, as he prepares a second run.

Holy illumination

The creation of a stunning outdoor landscape demands quality, creative lighting. Artemide’s collection of outdoor luminaires and light fixtures caters for a wide spectrum of aesthetic requirements, while also offering users the very latest in lighting technology and energy efficient solutions. Artemide’s outdoor lighting products are designed to meet even the most challenging requirements, with each product range encompassing a number of models and versatile installation options. Pictured here is Eraclea. Designed by Neil Poulton, its monolithic form is pierced by a large circular hole that as darkness unfolds, gives the appearance of a suspended crescent moon. A stylish way to make a dramatic statement when the sun goes down. Contact: artemide.com.au; 1300 135 709

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Made from premium PVC, they are two metres in length and 900mm wide.

Contact: www.imaisde.com; pablo@imaisde.com

Why spend all day crushing tablets and cleaning test tubes when you could be talking to customers instead? Just 60 seconds is all it takes to Stand back complete 8 tests—it’s that easy and let the new WaterLink Spin® system do your pool water testing for you.

Cool but coarse

Adbri Masonry is a leading masonry manufacturer supplying quality concrete bricks, blocks, pavers, retaining walls, erosion control products, architectural masonry solutions and reconstituted stone veneers throughout Australia’s East Coast, South Australia and Tasmania. This image shows their EuroStone Riverina product, considered especially suitable for paving around swimming pools because of its cool, light colour and coarse, slip-resistant texture. Contact: www.adbrimasonry.com.au; 1300 365 565

WaterLink Spin is ‘hands free’ testing. There’s nothing for you to do other than fill a disc with water and insert it in the meter. The system takes care of the rest. But that’s not the only advantage. WaterLink Spin takes only 60 seconds to complete 8 different tests. That’s up to 10 times faster than other photometers. Your customers will love it and so will your staff. WaterLink Spin tests for copper and iron which are not usually included in standard tests. This helps to increase your sales of high margin specialty chemicals. WaterLink Spin uses DataMate water testing software which is hands down the best software in the business. And the software is now available in a hosted version called DataMate Web.

Smiling in the sun

Byron Rashie is a new label designed on the New South Wales north coast. Inventor Leah Wright grew up on the beaches of Byron Bay but couldn’t find a rash shirt offering the protection of a hood. So she made her own. Her Byron Rashie not only has a UPF50+ hood (protecting the upper body, face and neck from the sun and wind) but is flat-stitched for all-round comfort. It comes in five colours for women: Cherry Red, Azure, Aqua, Sunset and Black; and Black and White for men. A children’s collection is currently in production. She is interested in hearing from potential distributors. Contact: www.byronrashie.com.au; 0418 227 964

Distributed exclusively by Vendart Pty Ltd Ph 02 9450 0466 Fax 02 9450 0755 www.vendart.com.au February-March 2014

SPLASH!

new products

Hayward’s nine-star pump

Hayward Pool Products Australia has achieved a Nine Star Energy Rating under the MEPS Energy Rating program for its new variable speed TriStar pumps. These are the first Nine Star ratings for swimming pool pumps in the Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) initiative (part of the MEPS program), whose overall commitment is to reduce energy costs and encourage superior energy efficiency.

Pool-proofing your smartphone

LifeProof phone covers are a must for people who spend all day working near (or sometimes in) water. These remarkable covers not only protect your valuable piece of communication technology from drops, shocks and spills, but can actually enable it to go up to two metres underwater. Since the release of the latest iPhone 5, SPLASH! was wondering how the cover would work with Touch ID. We can report it works a treat, thanks to a thin, transparent film which seals against water, dirt and dust, but is sensitive enough for the fingerprint recognition to work. LifeProof covers meet military standards for shock and impact protection and provide an IP68 rating for protection from liquids and dust.

Contact: www.lifeproof.com

Hayward says its MEPS-approved pool pumps will save consumers thousands of dollars in energy over their lifetime; will often pay for themselves in less time; as well as run quieter and prolong the life of a pool’s filtering system. The Hayward variable speed models receiving the MEPS Star Energy rating approval are: TriStarVS SP3210 (9 Stars), TriStarVS SP3215(9 Stars) and MaxFloVS SP2300VS (8 Stars). Contact: www.hayward-pool.com.au; 1300 POOLS1

The world pool and spa industry show

contact : Simon COOPER (+61) 02 96602113 scooper@intermedia.com.au

18-21 NOVEMBER 2014 I EUREXPO LYON ‐ FRANCE www.piscine-expo.com

PISCINE2014_GB_SPLASH_L185xH135.indd 1

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

31/01/14 11:50

MagnaLatch launches series 3

Since its launch almost 25 years ago, MagnaLatch has become the world’s best-selling pool safety gate latch. Now, the new MagnaLatch Series 3 is available from Pool Systems. It’s the ideal pool safety gate latch because the release is out of reach of toddlers, and its magnetic action shuts every time and stays shut – no matter how much it’s pulled or shaken.

Smart app for pool owners

Clark Rubber, with the help of Vortilla Digital, has developed an iPhone and Android smartphone app featuring a seasonal calendar of advice for pool owners, offering step-by-step solutions for ongoing pool maintenance and a pool service booking functionality linking to the user’s local Clark Rubber store. The app also provides vital pool safety information in the form of Clark Rubber’s SAFER tips, an acronym standing for water safety skills, pool fencing, preparation for emergencies and general pool rules. This safety section of the app offers education on performing CPR and additional tips on the safe storage of harmful chemicals, and the varying state laws around backyard pools. Contact: www.clarkrubber.com.au

Safety

Telecomms

Environmental

• • • • • • •

ACCRE DITE D

MagnaLatch Series 3 is easily fitted and easy to adjust, so gate sag or ground shift is never a problem. Contact: www. magnalatch.com.au

EMC/Wireless

•

PRODUCT TESTING AND APPROVAL

It’s key lockable for extra safety and can be rekeyed to conveniently match other locks such as the front door. Also new for Series 3 is a visible Lock Indicator, letting you see at a glance when it’s locked or unlocked.

• •

Alarms

MEPS

Approvals

Electrical Safety testing of household, commercial, IT and industrial products Telecommunications testing of 3G and 4G devices Environmental Testing including UV, Corrosion, Vibration, Temp and Humidity Wireless Device testing to ACMA, FCC and European requirements Alarm system testing to AS/NZS 2201 and AS 4607 Energy Efciency (MEPS) testing of swimming pool pumps, power supplies etc RCM approval certicates in accordance with ERAC and EESS requirements Safety testing to AS/NZS 60335.2.109 for UV radiation water treatment LED Lighting Testing and Approvals for IPART and VEET On and Off Grid Inverter testing for Clean Energy Council requirements

February-March 2014

SPLASH!

new products

Single filter eﬃciency

Pentair says its new Posi-Clear RP filter is nearly 50 per cent more hydraulically efficient than other cartridge filters on the market. Also, the side entry port helps optimise flow and further improve energy efficiency. At the same time, it delivers top-of-the-line cartridge performance to keep the pool sparkling clear. The single-piece base and tank are constructed from fiberglass reinforced polypropylene for strength and chemical resistance, and Pentair has maximised the cartridge surface consistency to block and trap particles as small as 20 microns.

Smart pods

Just like a dishwasher tab, Zodiac Smart Pods contain pool water treatment products in an easy-to-use, convenient water-soluble film, so the pods dissolve in pool water in just minutes. Utilising Drop & Go technology, they make measuring a thing of the past. The single use pre-measured dose means no bottles and no fuss, reducing the time needed to maintain a pool, leaving more time for fun. They are made from reclaimed crustacean shells, so are healthier for the environment.

Its quick-connect ring makes maintenance a cinch: just open the top, remove the cartridge, hose it off and it’s ready to go again.

They come in two formulations: The Turbo Clear Smart Pod treats the cloudiest pool water within 24 hours thanks to an ultra-concentrated formula. The Ezy Care Smart Pod is a 3-in-1 weekly treatment that keeps water clear, removes phosphates and helps prevent oil and scum built-up.

Contact: www.pentair.com.au; 1300 137 344

Contact: www.zodiac.com.au

Ready, Set, Splash like Peppa! Aqua centres and swim schools are invited to host a Big Splash event during March & April. Engage young families with your centre & support an Australian charity.

For more information visit thebigsplash.org.au

SPLASH!

February-March 2014

Contact our Sales team

Listening for leaks

SewerBatt uses acoustic signals to quickly and accurately identify any defects, breaks or blockages in pipes. The resultant data can be easily stored and compared with future tests to show changes and support long-term management of infrastructure assets. Because the equipment is lightweight and human entry is not required, acoustic surveys can be carried out by a single operator.

Fast food with turbo barbie

The Geneva Outdoor Chef backyard barbecue has a unique and versatile rotatable funnel for direct and indirect barbecuing. With fast combustion (from 0 to 350 degrees in about five minutes), the Geneva features a two-burner system with integrated ignition, thermometer and heat regulators.

SewerBatt is ideal for rapid scanning of pipeline systems. The equipment can be used to quickly and rapidly identify those pipes that are clear and those that have defects, blockages or breaks. If problems are found with a pipe then Electro Scan can be used to positively identify leak size and locations and CCTV can be used for visual inspection and observation.

It’s stylish, enclosed stainless steel design helps hide the gas bottle, and it comes with generous fold-out work tops and a large cooking area, even though it is quite compact.

Contact: www.uvs.com.au

Contact: www.outdoorchef.com.au

The Outdoor Chef range goes from the high-end Geneva to the small and transportable City Grill, with charcoal or gas options.

February-March 2014 SPLASH! 87

new products

Neat, bright and watertight

Spa Electrics’ has released its new Quantum WN Series LED pool lighting. Its stylish yet robust design sits flush to the pool interior for a non-intrusive neat finish. Spa Electrics says it offers unparalleled brightness and energy efficiency, and that its custom-engineered driver technology delivers intense illumination while consuming up to 55 per cent less energy than its LED rivals. There are brilliant single-colour and spectacular multi-colour options. The Quantum WN Series is manufactured using chemical-resistant materials to ensure long lasting product integrity. Its innovative design features a patented detachable connection (Direct Connect) that provides a safe and robust electrical connection eliminating the most common cause of water entry in underwater lights. In addition, the vented rim design utilises convection to draw cool water in behind the light to the external heat sink to ensure maximum cooling and efficiency. Contact: spaelectrics.com.au

Semco to distribute NH range

Semco Equipment Sales has been appointed distributor for New Holland construction equipment (CE) for Sydney, Newcastle, Queanbeyan and Goulburn. Semco already distributes New Holland agriculture equipment to some of those markets. “This arrangement will complement the existing Semco equipment range by allowing us to offer a wider variety of products at pricing that will appeal to all market sectors”, says Semco’s Satch Santilli. “In addition to our premium equipment brands, the New Holland CE distribution has enabled us to fill in our range with a wheeled skid steer loader, telehandler, wheeled loader, backhoe, and a keenly-priced mini-excavator and tracked compact loader.” Contact: www.semcogroup.com.au; 1800 685 525 88 SPLASH! February-March 2014

Sound innovation

PQN Enterprises has released a new LED accent in-spa audio speaker. Designed with same wall-fitting design as other spa components, the SPA24TR allows integration with the spa industry’s most popular LED lighting systems by mating hi-tech audio construction with a translucent body. The Spa24TR accepts up to four LED bullet lights. No additional LED trim ring is needed. It installs without additional hardware while its threaded body design prevents direct contamination of the speaker. SPA24 speakers are available in assorted models. Distribution inquiries welcome. PQN Audio speakers and transducers are now available thru CSN Global. Contact: www.spaspeaker.com

Polyester fibre filtration

Fibalon is a polymer fibre filter which was developed in cooperation with the University of Nuremberg. It is a mixture of diverse polyester fibres with different surface structures, in a ball shape which has the lowest volume for a maximal surface area. The interior of the fibre ball is a slightly dense core with a softer encasement. It has a high volume but a very low weight compared to conventional sand filters. Fibalon says the fibres consist of 100 per cent recyclable polyester and are therefore chemically resistant to many substances and have shown 99 per cent filter effectiveness in laboratory tests. Contact: fibalon@kiptrade.de

Eco pump saves energy

According to Waterco, their new Eight Star variable speed Hydrostorm ECO-V can save more than 80 per cent of the energy used by an ordinary pool pump. It can be set to three different pre-programmed speeds to achieve optimal performance: 1. High speed: gives the power needed for vacuuming and backwashing 2. Medium speed: perfect for suction pool cleaners 3. ECO speed: low energy saving speed for everyday filtration. This is the setting pool owners will use 99 percent of the time In addition, the Hydrostorm ECO-V can be fine-tuned in 25rpm increments, allowing a perfect match to the flow requirements of the swimming pool, maximising energy savings and minimising pump noise.

Protect Pool, Protect Your Your Pool, Protect Kids Protect Your Your Kids View our online video showing common pool fencing faults and how to spot them at View our online video showing common pool fencing faults and how to spot them at www.kidshealth.chw.edu.au/projects/drowning-prevention/swimming-pool-fencing www.kidshealth.chw.edu.au/projects/drowning-prevention/swimming-pool-fencing

Waterco says this means it can potentially operate at speeds lower than conventional multispeed pumps, further improving both energy savings and noise reduction.

KIH1025/0811/SC KIH1025/0811/SC

Contact: www.waterco.com.au

Not just tough, Supatuf

Waterco’s new Seven Star energy-rated Supatuf ECO 100 3-speed pump is designed for large domestic swimming pools with ancillary systems such as heating, in-floor cleaning, fountains, vacuum cleaning and swimjets. “As a pool’s filtration cycle occupies 99 per cent of the run time of a pool pump, you can operate the Supatuf ECO on its low speed setting for the majority of its running time, leading to significant energy savings,” says George Flory, Waterco’s domestic water care product manager. “Pool filtration does not require to be operated at a pump’s maximum water flow rate. In fact, your pool’s filtration efficiency improves at lower flow rates. “In addition, lowering a pump’s flow rate not only significantly decreases the pump’s energy requirements, but also reduces water flow resistance in your pool equipment and plumbing. Plus your automatic chemical dosers and salt chlorinators are more effective when the pool water is circulated longer.” Contact: www.waterco.com.au February-March 2014

SPLASH!

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February-March 2014

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