Colonic lavage is a procedure that uses water to cleanse the colon or large intestine. Colonic lavage businesses need to provide toilet facilities for clients under the Public Health Regulation 2022.

Colonic lavage, also called colonic irrigation, is a skin penetration procedure under the Public Health Regulation 2022 (the Regulation) and businesses must implement infection control practices to prevent infections spreading from one person to another.

Colonic lavage treatments can spread viral, bacterial, or fungal infections from one client to another through contaminated equipment and surfaces. The procedure can cause other injuries to clients if it is not performed correctly. These can include trauma to the colon, such as ulceration or perforation; and worsen chronic bowel disease such as diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease or haemorrhoids; and thermal shock or scalding.

Businesses can find the rules for skin penetration procedures in the Regulation.

The business should be designed and constructed so that it can be easily and correctly cleaned (see fact sheet Skin penetration business design and construction.) Contact the local council to ensure all local rules have been met.

Colonic irrigation equipment is a medical device. It should have an Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) inclusion number (listing or registration).

Further action may be taken if a business fails to comply with the Regulation. This may include: