Are floatation tanks safe?

Floatation tanks can be safely used by most healthy adults but are not suitable for people under 16 or people with certain medical conditions.

You should not use a floatation tank immediately after shaving or if you are sunburnt as the high salt concentration may cause discomfort.

You should not (and, in a commercial floatation tank, will not be permitted to) use a floatation tank if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is absolutely forbidden in any spa but especially private areas where there is water involved and and can make the services extremely dangerous, most float centres including our own will call the guards if someone is suspected of trying this, to mix water with such an act in private is so dangerous. Industry practice only permits use by those aged 16 and over.

Floatation is not recommended if you have the following conditions:

• epilepsy
• kidney disease
• low blood pressure
• any contagious disease, including diarrhoea or gastroenteritis (and for 14 days following)
• open wounds or skin ulcers
• claustrophobia.

Check with your health practitioner before using a floatation tank if you are pregnant or are concerned about the following conditions:

• heart conditions
• asthma
• sensitivity to chlorine, bromine, sulfate or magnesium
• severe skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema
• psychosis

Will I feel claustrophobic, drown or become trapped?

Prior to use, the facility will show you how to open and close the door to the tank, from the inside. Some people prefer to begin with the door open and close it when comfortable. All units are fitted with an internal call alarm and light. You can get out of the tank at any time.

Controls are normally in place which allows the facility to monitor the safety of all individuals without compromising privacy.

If you fall asleep, you will stay afloat due to the buoyancy of the water. Some discomfort may occur if the salt water gets in your eyes. While drowning in a floatation tank is possible, it is extremely unlikely.

Being under the influence of drugs, alcohol and/or medications with a sedative effect will increase the risk of drowning.

Are there any side effects?

Users may experience a heightened sense of smell, sound and light after a float session.

First time users may experience nausea.

Skin should not wrinkle as Epsom salts have an emollient (softening and soothing) effect.