Swimming pools and bathing lakes

In Bremen, we are responsible for monitoring the water quality in swimming pools and bathing lakes. Our goal is to ensure that the water is always hygienically safe. Here you will find monitored bathing lakes, bathing areas, outdoor and indoor swimming pools.

What do we do?

Swimming pools
We currently monitor 37 swimming pools in Bremen (e.g. indoor pools, outdoor pools, swimming pools in hotels). The operators of the swimming pools must have the water in the pools tested regularly for bacteria and chemical substances. They must document the results of these tests. They must also regularly check and clean the filters that filter dirt out of the water. All work must be recorded in writing.

• We check the results of the water tests once a month. If the specified maximum values are exceeded, we determine measures that the operator must implement.
• We visit the swimming pools at least once a year and check the water quality. We check whether the operator has fulfilled their obligations and documented all work properly.

Swimming lakes
There are 10 bathing lakes and one bathing area in the Weser river in Bremen. We monitor the water quality in close cooperation with the Senator for the Environment, Climate and Science.

• From 15 May to 15 September, water samples are taken from the bathing lakes once a month.
• We evaluate the results of the water tests and provide information about any restrictions on bathing.
• We check the toilet facilities, information signs and hygiene on the bathing beach.
• We provide information about the current water quality at the lake (e.g. blue-green algae or cercariae).

What is the legal basis?
The monitoring of water quality in swimming pools and bathing lakes is carried out in accordance with the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Our work is also based on DIN standard 19643. This standard specifies maximum values for bacteria and chemical substances in the water and sets further requirements, for example for the condition of swimming pools, for checks by operators and for the cleaning of the water and swimming pools. In addition, the Federal Environment Agency has issued recommendations on hygiene in swimming pools and their monitoring. There is also an EU directive (Directive 2006/7/EC) for monitoring bathing waters, which sets maximum values for bacteria in bathing waters.