Investigation of Chemical and Bacterial Quality in Korean Public Bath Facilities

Abstract

Investigations of water quality concerning the occurrence of total coliform, heterotropic plate count and Legionella from taps, hot tubs and cold tubs were conducted at public bath facilities. The prevalence of total coliforms and heterotropic plate count were shown in tap water samples as well as tub water in bathing facilities. The results obtained showed a correlation (at the level of p < 0.01) between heterotropic plate count and turbidity in hot bath tubs. The spearman rank correlation results shows that the occurrence of total coliforms were related to the level of dissolved organic carbon. Present investigation has demonstrated that the suitable measures should be taken to more effectively assess bathing water quality and hygiene conditions in public bathing facilities.