Floatation tanks, also known as sensory deprivation, immersion therapy tanks, or isolation baths are lightless and soundproof chambers in which a person floats in a shallow depth of salt water solution. Floatation tanks may also be known as a float tub, float tank, sensory deprivation tank, or isolation tank.
Floatation tanks are commonly used for therapeutic purposes such as meditation, stress reduction, and relaxation.
Information for Users and Operators of Floatation Tanks
Currently, there are no health regulations that can be enforced related to floatation tanks in Ontario. However, there are many important recommendations that owners/operators of floatation tanks should follow to ensure that health risks to their clients are minimized.
The Ministry of Health has published a document called "Recommendations for Floatation Tanks" that covers topics such as water circulation and filtration, disinfection of the tank and its components, record keeping, and polices and procedures.
Public Health Ontario has also published a document that highlights key research findings called "Evidence Brief: Risk of Infection in the use of Floatation Tanks".
Any complaints or concerns related to the health and safety of a floatation tank can be submitted to the Health Unit using our online system or by calling 519-258-2146 ext. 4475 and speaking with a Public Health Inspector.
References:
- Recommendations for Floatation tanks, Ministry of Health, August 2019.
- Evidence brief: Risk of infection in the use of Floatation Tanks, Public Health Ontario, June 2016.