Solution: Investigation of snowmelt water

Investigation of snow water: Water quality requirements for snowmaking

When using snow cannons for technical snowmaking, large quantities of water are sprayed, which is why special attention must be paid to the hygienic quality of the snowmaking water.

The requirements for water used to produce artificial snow are defined in ÖNORM M 6257, ÖWAV Rule Sheet 210, and ÖWAV Rule Sheet 221: Ski Slopes and Operation of Snowmaking Systems .

The criteria for the hygienic quality of snowmaking water are based on the following considerations:

•  Possible influence of water quality on sources for drinking water supply systems on or below snow surfaces, taking into account the filter effect and the flow paths or flow duration between water entry on the snow surface and water exit at the source.
• Possible contamination of the snow itself with a risk of infection in the event of injuries to skiers with open wounds, or if children eat or lick snow, or if snow enters the respiratory tract or esophagus of skiers after a fall.
• Possible contamination of the snow jet after the snow machine, with a risk of infection for operating personnel at the snow machine or for skiers skiing through the snow jet, keyword “aerosol contamination” due to finely atomized droplets.
• Possible ecological contamination of receiving waters during the melting phase
  by contaminated snow.