In the event of an incident involving diarrheal discharge in a pool, the free available chlorine should be raised to what level?

In the event of a diarrheal incident in a pool, the free available chlorine should be raised to a level of 20 ppm to effectively disinfect the water and eliminate pathogens, particularly pathogens such as Cryptosporidium, which can be resistant to lower chlorine levels. This increased concentration of chlorine is necessary to quickly neutralize contaminants and prevent the spread of illness among swimmers.

Chlorine at this elevated level acts as a strong oxidizing agent, allowing for rapid disinfection of the water. Following a diarrheal incident, it is essential to maintain the elevated chlorine level for an appropriate period to ensure thorough disinfection. This measure, alongside proper filtration and backwashing, is crucial for maintaining public health and safety in swimming environments.