PHTA Seeks Research Proposals on Cold Plunge Water Quality and Safety
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Research & Grants Committee is seeking research proposals to expand the industry’s understanding of water quality, pathogen prevalence and public health risks in cold plunge pools and tubs.
The growing popularity of cold plunge systems in athletic facilities, physical therapy clinics, wellness spas and recreational settings has outpaced available scientific research on their operation and safety, according to PHTA.
The organization is requesting proposals in two primary areas.
The first focuses on microbiological hazards and pathogen prevalence. Researchers are encouraged to study pathogens present in cold plunge water under a variety of operating conditions, including different water temperatures and temperature cycling, recirculating and single-use systems, and filtered and unfiltered configurations.
The second area centers on disinfection efficacy and water quality management. PHTA is seeking research evaluating the effectiveness of disinfectants in cold plunge environments, the impact of variables such as pH and contact time and whether secondary treatment systems, including ultraviolet light and ozone, reduce pathogen loads in cold plunge applications.
PHTA said proposals addressing both research topics will receive priority consideration.
Research grant applications are due Aug. 15, and all submissions must comply with the PHTA’s research grant program request for proposals guidelines.
Researchers with cold plunge-related project ideas outside the listed areas of interest are encouraged to contact Gregory Ceton, senior director of standards and codes, to discuss their proposals at gceton@phta.org or 703-682-8166.
