Health & Safety

The Urban Sauna is committed to operating its facilities in a manner which gives proper priority to guest and staff safety. This policy summarises the principal precautions applying to sauna, cold-water immersion, hot-tub and contrast-therapy use. It does not replace our internal risk assessments, operating procedures or emergency arrangements.

1. Before using the facilities

Heat and cold exposure can place significant demands on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Guests should not participate where they are acutely unwell, intoxicated, dehydrated or have been medically advised to avoid the activity.

Guests who are pregnant or may be pregnant, have a relevant cardiovascular, circulatory, neurological or respiratory condition, have recently undergone surgery, or take medication which may affect blood pressure, circulation, alertness or temperature regulation should obtain appropriate medical advice before participating where there is any doubt as to suitability.

2. Sauna use

When using the sauna:

• build exposure gradually, particularly if you are unfamiliar with sauna use;
• leave the sauna immediately if you feel faint, dizzy, nauseous, unusually breathless or otherwise unwell;
• remain hydrated and allow adequate recovery between rounds;
• use a towel when seated and avoid direct contact with hot surfaces; and
• do not interfere with the stove, controls or any heating equipment.

3. Cold-water immersion

When using the cold plunges:

• enter the water carefully and progressively; do not jump or dive;
• expect an initial cold-shock response and concentrate on controlled breathing;
• do not undertake underwater breath-holding exercises or challenges;
• leave the water promptly if you experience loss of coordination, numbness, distress, dizziness or abnormal breathing; and
• allow sufficient recovery before returning to heat or undertaking another immersion.

4. General site rules

Across the site, please:

• follow all staff instructions and displayed safety notices;
• shower before entering shared water facilities;
• walk rather than run on wet surfaces;
• do not bring glass, alcohol or illegal drugs onto the premises;
• do not interfere with plant, chemicals, filters, covers, fire equipment or controls; and
• respect the privacy and reasonable comfort of other guests.

5. Water quality

Water systems will be operated under documented procedures and risk assessments appropriate to the facilities in use. Monitoring, treatment, inspection and record-keeping will be undertaken as required by the applicable operating regime. A pool or hot-tub facility will be removed from service where we are not satisfied that it can be operated safely.

6. First aid and emergencies

Any illness, injury or safety concern should be reported to a member of staff immediately. We maintain first-aid and emergency arrangements appropriate to the operation. In a medical emergency, staff will contact the emergency services and provide assistance within the scope of their training and competence.