Manual on Public Swimming Pool Construction

This regulation adopts the definitions contained in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, unless superseded or amended by the following definitions:

1. A.N.S.I. means the American National Standard Institute for Public Swimming Pools.

2. Approving Authority means the Director of the Department of Health and Human Services or the Director’s designee.

3. Decks means those areas surrounding a pool which are specifically constructed or installed for use by patrons.

4. Deep Area means swimming pool water depth that exceeds five feet.

5. Diving Pool means a swimming pool intended for use exclusively by divers.

6. Dry Deck means all pedestrian surface areas within the pool enclosure not subject to frequent splashing or constant wet foot traffic. Landscape areas are not included in this definition.

7. Egress means the manner of exiting the pool.

8. Floor means the interior bottom pool surface which consists of that surface from a horizontal plane up to a maximum of a 1:3 slope.

9. Handrail means a corrosion resistant tube or bar extending above and returning to the horizontal surface of the pool deck, curb or coping and located at each side of each ladder and in the center or on one side of each stairway.

10. Hazard means a condition or situation that could cause injury or illness to a patron or pool personnel.

11. Hydrostatic Relief means a method of reducing the water pressure around an empty or partially filled pool.

12. Immediate Premises means the area within the enclosed boundaries of the pool site.

13. Non-Swimming Area means any portion of a pool where water depth, offset ledges or similar irregularities would prevent safe swimming activities.

14. N.S.P.I. means the National Spa and Pool Institute.

15. Overflow System means perimeter type overflows, surface skimmers and surface water collection systems of various design and manufacture.

16. Patron means any person using a Public Swimming Pool, the adjoining deck area, or the immediate premises for the purposes of water sports, recreation, therapy, or related activities.

17. Private Spa means any outdoor bathing structure that is:

a. a self-contained unit in which all control, water heating, and water circulating equipment is an integral part of the unit;

b. built on the grounds of a single-family private residence;

c. used solely by the owner, immediate family, tenants, or guests; and

d. not used for swimming, diving, or wading.

18. Private Swimming Pool means any swimming pool that is:

a. built on the grounds of a single family residence; and

b. used solely by the owner, immediate family, tenants, and guests.

19. Public Swimming Pool means any swimming pool, except a private swimming pool or private spa, which is intended to be used collectively, by a number of persons for swimming, diving, wading or recreational bathing. Public Swimming Pools include:

1. A Public Pool that is:

a. not a Public Spa; and

b. is intended for public recreational use such as swimming, diving, wading, therapy, competition or associated activity.

2. A Public Spa that is:

a. intended for public recreational and therapeutic uses other than swimming, diving, or wading; and

b. is not drained, cleaned, or refilled for each user.

20. Shallow Area means an area where the water depth is five feet or less.

21. Stairs, Recessed Stairs, Ladders and Recessed Treads means those means of entry and exit to and from the pool.

a. Stairs means a riser and tread or series of risers and treads extending down from the deck into the pool.

b. Recessed Stairs means a riser and tread or series of risers and treads extending down from the deck to the pool floor with the bottom riser or tread termination at the pool wall (thus creating a “stair well”).

c. Ladders means a series of vertically separated treads or rungs either connected by vertical rail members or independently fastened to an adjacent vertical pool wall.

d. Recessed Treads means a series of vertically spaced cavities in the pool walls creating tread areas for stepholes.

22. Swimming Pool, whether public or private, means any artificial structure, basin, chamber or tank, except a private spa, either above or below ground, which is used or intended to be used for the primary purpose of swimming, diving, wading or recreational bathing. A swimming pool includes all associated equipment, structures and facilities located within a common enclosure. A unit used in conjunction with the private practice of a physician or physical therapist is not a swimming pool.

23. Toxic means an adverse physiological effect on man or the environment.

24. Training Pool means a pool not normally in excess of 3.5' deep at its points of maximum depth and usually reserved for use by persons learning to swim.

25. Transition Point means the place in the floor of the pool between water depths of 4'6" and 5'6" where an abrupt change in slope occurs. The transition point must be at the 5' depth in pools having a constant slope.

26. Turnover means the time required to circulate the entire pool volume of water through the filtration system and back to the pool.

27. Vertical means a line or surface running perpendicular to the plane of the horizon; a truly plumb line.

28. Wading Pool means a Public Pool that is a maximum of 24" deep and primarily intended for use by children.

29. Water Line:

a. Skimmer system - the water line is the midpoint of the operating range of the skimmers.

b. Overflow Systems - the water line is the height of the overflow rim.

30. W.S.S.C. means the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards.

A. Plans and specifications requirements .

1. One copy of the plans and specifications must be submitted to the Approving Authority.

2. Plans and specifications must include sufficient information to permit detailed review for compliance with the Ordinance and this Manual.

3. Plans and specifications must be drawn to scale and contain these elements:

a. Type of pool as defined in 51.00.01.01.

b. Location diagram.

c. Site plan, including location of roads, utilities and drainage.

d. Swimming Pool layout, including appurtenances.

e. Piping layout, including summary table of pool fittings and complete hydraulic calculations for determining dynamic head.

f. Filter room layout.

g. Bathhouse plan, unless no bathhouse required.

h. Equipment specifications, including performance curves for circulating pumps to be used, as prepared and certified by the manufacturer. Make and model number must be submitted for all NSF equipment. Specifications sheets must be submitted for all non-NSF equipment.

i. Structural sections.

j. Finish schedule of all surfaces.

k. Copy of the Opinion of the Board of Appeals, when applicable.

B. Inspection requirements

1. An inspection and pressure test must be performed by the Approving Authority of the circulation piping before the pool bottom is installed.

2. Prior to licensure, the Swimming Pool must be inspected for compliance with the plans, especially the circulation piping and the installed equipment.

3. Prior to licensure, an operating test checking flow distribution in the Swimming Pool and performance of equipment must be completed satisfactorily.

4. The owner must provide for inspection of manufacturers’ manuals for the installed equipment and written instructions for the operation of the particular pool.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards.

A. Location requirements.

1. A Swimming Pool must not be located in a 100-year flood plain unless the pool deck and equipment is established at elevations to protect them from flooding.

2. Storm drainage must not discharge into the Swimming Pool enclosure.

3. The water surface of indoor Swimming Pools must not be located directly below waste pipes.

4. The water surface of any Swimming Pool must not be located directly under power wires.

5. Rooftop Swimming Pools must be located reasonably close to the elevators.

6. Emergency access to the Swimming Pool and deliveries to equipment areas must be possible by means of:

a. ability to drive a vehicle directly to the equipment area and immediate premise; or

b. ability to drive a vehicle to a point within reasonable distance of the Swimming Pool. The point must be connected with the pool by a hard surface walk containing no steps or grades exceeding 15%; or

c. elevators and nearby stairways in the case of rooftop and/or indoor Swimming Pools. The elevators and stairways must be of such dimensions as to permit manipulation of a loaded litter.

7. Public water supply and sewer must be available to the site, or an approved individual water supply system and/or an approved individual sewage disposal system can be installed satisfactorily on the site.

8. The location of the site must permit the removal of backwash water in accordance with the requirements of the W.S.S.C., the City of Rockville, or the City of Gaithersburg as applicable.

9. Swimming Pools must discharge into sanitary sewer systems where such systems are available and service is granted by W.S.S.C. or other operating agency.

B. Barrier requirements.

1. All outdoor Swimming Pool areas must be enclosed by a barrier designed so as to minimize the possibility of unauthorized or unwary persons entering the pool area. The barrier must not be less than 72 inches in height. The Approving Authority may grant an exemption from the barrier being 72 inches in height. If an exemption is granted, the barrier must not be less than 60 inches in height, measured from the deck.

2. All wading pools must be surrounded by a fence or barrier at least 42 inches in height. A gate must be provided.

3. Sand beaches and other unpaved areas which are designed for use by patrons and which have surface material which will cling to the feet, must be separated from the pool deck by a fence, planting, or other permanent barrier such that access to the deck is gained only at controlled access points. Areas designed primarily for spectator use must be separated from areas used by patrons by a fence, partition, or other physical means. Entrance to these areas must not be through areas normally used by patrons.

C. Utility requirements.

1. If a public water supply is available to the site on which the pool is located, water from the public water system must be used to serve the pool and ail plumbing fixtures.

2. The potable water supply system must meet the requirements established by the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Montgomery County Code for potable water service and must be able to maintain minimum pressure under all normal usages.

3. All portions of the potable water supply system serving the Swimming Pool and auxiliary facilities must be protected against backflow.

4. Potable water introduced into the Swimming Pool, either directly or to the circulation system, must be supplied through an air gap of at least 2 pipe diameters or other approved means.

5. If a public sewerage system is available to the site on which the pool is located, connection must be made to the system. Swimming Pools must discharge into sanitary sewer systems where such systems are available and service is granted by W.S.S.C. or other operating agency.

6. The sewerage system must be adequate to serve the facilities including the bathhouse, locker room, and related accommodations in accordance with the requirements of the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Montgomery County Code and/or W.S.S.C.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. The capacity of the pool, which is the maximum number of persons permitted in the pool at any given moment, is established as follows:

1. Public Pools - After deduction of the 300 square feet for each diving board or platform, one person is allotted for every 20 square feet of Deep Area and one person for every 12 square feet of shallow area. One additional person is allotted for each diving board or platform.

2. Public Spas - One person is allotted for every 9 square feet of total water area.

B. Pool and enclosure capacities must be determined by the Approving Authority in writing and must be conspicuously posted by the owner at the pool.

This regulation adopts the pool and spa safety and operator certification sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, as the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. General.

1. The Swimming Pool structure must be constructed of materials which are non-toxic to man and the environment, resistant to permanent deformation, impervious and enduring, can withstand the design stresses, will provide a watertight structure, and have a smooth and easily cleanable surface without cracks or joints, excluding structural joints.

2. Wood, sand, or earth must not be permitted for surfaces in a Swimming Pool.

3. The floor of all pools must be white, light colored, or light colored patterns in order to facilitate the identification of any objects within the pool.

4. The surfaces within a Swimming Pool intended to provide footing for patrons must be designed to provide a slip-resistant surface. The roughness or irregularity of such surfaces must not cause injury or discomfort to the feet.

5. An adequate means of hydrostatic relief must be provided.

6. There must be no hazardous protrusions, including underwater ledges, from the floor or walls of the pool into the water.

7. The maximum horizontal distance of the tip of the diving board or platform from Point A may vary plus or minus 3" to allow for construction tolerance on Public Swimming Pools.

B. Floor.

1. The slope of the shallow area floor must be uniform, must slope to drain, and must not exceed 1' of fall in 12'. Public Spa floors must slope to drain.

2. The slope of the Deep Area floor must be uniform, must slope to drain, and must not exceed 1' of fall in 3'.

3. All corners formed by the intersection of walls or by the intersection of walls and floors must have a minimum 6" cove radius in water depths greater than 3 feet. For additional guidance, see the current standards established by A.N.S.I.

C. Means of Swimming Pool Entry/Egress: Stairs, Recessed Stairs, Ladders, and Recessed Treads.

1. Public Swimming Pools must have:

a. In the diving well: 1 ladder for each 75' of perimeter but no less than 2 ladders.

b. In the shallow area: one means of entry/egress for each 75' of perimeter and approximately evenly spaced.

c. Not less than two means of entry/egress at any one pool.

2. No means of entry/egress needs to be provided at pools where the maximum water depth does not exceed 24 inches.

3. Stairs, recessed stairs, ladders, and recessed treads should be so located so as not to interfere with racing lanes.

4. All handrails must meet the standards established by A.N.S.I.

5. Ladder treads must be constructed so as to reduce the possibility of slipping, be self-draining, and be at least 3" in width over the stepping surface.

6. The design and construction of pool stairs must conform to the following:

a. Each stair tread must have minimum unobstructed horizontal dimensions of 10" x 24".

b. Risers at the centerline of the treads must have a maximum uniform height of 12".

c. Stair treads must have slip-resistant surfaces.

7. The design and construction of recessed treads in the pool wall must meet the standards established by A.N.S.I.

8. Pool stairs must be painted or tiled on the nosing with a contrasting color to indicate a drop to the next level.

D. Special Features.

1. Underwater seat benches, when provided, must not be over 20" below the water line and must be:

a. visually set apart from the surrounding pool surfaces by a contrasting color or visual image such as provided by colored tile nosing, etc;

b. completely recessed in either a separate alcove or wall indentation especially designed for that purpose when located in the Deep Area of a pool; and

c. provided with a slip-resistant surface.

2. Off-set ledges, when provided, must fall within an 11 degree line from vertical starting at the junction of the pool wall and water line. Ledges must have a maximum width of 8" and a slip-resistant surface.

DIAGRAM BELOW:

1. 11" should be 11°

2. 1.5 should be 1:5

E. Wading Pools.

1. Wading pools must be separate and physically set apart from shallow water areas of Swimming Pools by at least 6' of deck. Wading pools must not adjoin the main pool where the water in the main pool is in excess of 4' deep.

2. Wading pools must have a maximum water depth of 24".

3. Walls in wading pools must be vertical or within 11 degrees of vertical except for the lower 6", which must be radiused to the floor. Walls must not extend more than 6" above the water line at any point.

4. Floors of wading- pools must be uniform and sloped to drain with a maximum slope of 1' in 12'.

F. Pool Depths.

1. Public Swimming Pools must have a minimum depth of water in the shallow end of the main swimming area of 3' with a 3'6" minimum if racing lanes are provided.

2. Public Spas must have depths as required for their intended use.

3. Public Swimming Pools intended for diving must:

a. comply with COMAR 10.17.01 (2013) if constructed after the effective date February 10, 1997;

b. come into compliance with COMAE. 10.17.01 (2013) once altered if constructed before February 10, 1997; or

c. maintain the pool, including appurtenant structures and equipment, in the manner most recently approved before the adoption of COMAR 10.17.01 (2013) provided:

i. any appurtenant structures and equipment consist of the same or equivalent materials having the same specifications, operating characteristics, and certification; and

ii. the pool does, not create a hazard as determined by the approving authority that threatens the health and safety of an individual using the pool.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. General Standards.

1. A deck clearance of 24" must be provided around deck equipment which is 36" or less in height above the deck and 36" deck clearance around all other deck equipment.

2. Dressing room exits to pool must be to the shallow area of the pool. At least 15' of deck must be provided between the dressing room door and the pool edge or as approved by the Approving Authority.

3. Joints where pool coping meets concrete decks must be caulked and made water tight and must not allow water to pass to the ground beneath.

B. Deck Drainage.

1. Joints in decks must be provided to control cracks which may be hazardous due to a change in elevation, separation of surfaces, or movement of the slab.

2. Where deck work joins concrete work other than the pool, these areas must be protected by expansion joints filled with a non-rigid material such as mastic to adequately protect the pool from the pressures of relative movements.

3. Decks must be edged, radiused, or otherwise relieved so as to provide no exposed sharp corners.

4. Except for ramps, dry decks must have a uniform slope of not less than 1/4" per foot and not greater than 1/2" per foot to drains.

5. Public Spa decks must be sloped to drain and shall prevent standing water.

6. Drainage must be adequate to remove pool splash water, deck cleaning water, and rain water, and must drain away from the pool.

7. Site drainage must be provided to prevent standing water.

8. Drain covers must be suitable for bare foot traffic and flush with the deck.

9. Water to the pool must be introduced only through an air gap of at least 2 times the pipe diameters.

10. Fill spouts must be located under a diving board, within 10 inches adjacent to a ladder or handrail, or in front of a lifeguard stand whose supports are immediately adjacent to the pool or spa rim, or otherwise properly shielded so as not to create a hazard. Its open end must have no sharp edges and be provided with a flexible cover on the tip of the fill spout.

C. Perimeter Deck.

1. A minimum of 4' in un-obstructive width must surround the pool perimeter.

2. The perimeter deck shall be flush with pool wall/coping or as the Approving Authority allows.

3. Patrons may be restricted from access to areas of the perimeter deck.

D. Dry Deck.

1. Must be continuous and an un-obstructed circulation path in conformance with ADA requirements for an Accessible Route.

2. Shall connect all site amenities, entrances, and exits as required by ADA requirements.

E. Fixtures.

1 . Hose bibs must be provided around the perimeter of the deck so that all parts of the pool deck area may be reached with 100' of hose and are placed so that no tripping hazard is created. All hose bibs must be equipped with a backflow preventer.

2. At least one drinking fountain must be provided for each 2,500 square feet of water surface or fraction thereof. The drinking fountain must be located more than 100' from any point inside the pool enclosure.

3. Rinse devices such as showers or foot sprays, designed to rinse loose foreign matter from the body, may be provided at access points to the deck from unpaved areas.

F. Lifeguard Chairs.

1. At least one elevated lifeguard chair must be provided for each 2,000 square feet of water surface area or fraction thereof. The lifeguard chair or chairs must be located so that the entire bottom area of the Swimming Pool is collectively visible from the lifeguard chair(s) on the perimeter of the Swimming Pool, and the lifeguard’s field of vision does not have to exceed 90° to the right and left of the center line of the chair.

2. Where a Swimming Pool is equipped with more than one lifeguard chair and the pool width is 45' or more, each lifeguard chair must be located on opposite sides of the pool.

3. A Swimming Pool which meets all of the following conditions is exempt from the requirements for a lifeguard chair:

a. The greatest water surface dimension is equal to or less than 35'.

b. The maximum depth does not exceed 5'.

c. The shape of the Swimming pool is such that the entire bottom of the Swimming Pool can be seen by a person standing at any location on the edge of the Swimming Pool.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. Artificial lighting must be provided at all indoor and outdoor Swimming Pools which are to be used at night or when daylight is insufficient. Lighting fixtures must be of such number and design as to illuminate all parts of the pool, the water, and the entire pool area. Lighting must be installed to minimize reflection from the water surface so the visibility of the pool or spa bottom is not obscured.

B. Fixtures, electrical equipment, and wiring must be installed in conformity with the Montgomery County Electrical and Building Code and the National Electrical Code adopted therein, and must be installed so as to create no hazard of burning, electrical shock, mechanical injury, or temporary blinding by glare to the patrons and so that lifeguards can clearly see every part of the pool area without being blinded by glare.

C. Where underwater lighting is used, no less than 1.25 watts must be employed per square foot of water surface in water over 5' deep and not less than .75 watts must be employed per square foot of water surface in water 5' deep or less.

D. Where underwater lighting is used, and night swimming is permitted, area lighting must be provided for the deck areas and directed toward the deck areas away from the pool surface where practical. At least 0.6 watts per square foot of deck area or at least 15 footcandles must be provided.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. There must be no protrusions, extensions, means of entanglement, or other obstructions which can cause entrapment or injury to the patron. There must be no hazardous obstruction extending from the Swimming Pool wall or floor.

B. Handholds must be provided around the perimeter of the Swimming Pool and must not be more than 9" above or 3" below the static water level. The overhang for coping or cantilevered decking shall not be greater than 2" nor less then 1" and shall not exceed 2 1/2" in thickness for the last 2" of the overhang.

C. A lifeline must be provided at or within 1' of the transition point and on the shallow side of that point. Its position must be marked with floats at not greater than 5' spacing. The life line must be 1/2" inch minimum diameter and its terminals must be securely anchored, be of corrosion-resistant material, and be of a type which has no projection which may constitute a hazard to patrons.

D. Depth Markers.

1. Depth of water in feet must be clearly and permanently marked at or above the water line on the vertical pool wall and on the top of coping or edge of the deck within 12" of the pool wall. Markings must be at maximum and minimum points, at all points of slope change, and at no more than 2' increments of depth. Such marking must be spaced at no more than 25' intervals and must be arranged to be uniformly located on both sides of the Swimming Pool as well as both ends. In the case of irregularly shaped Swimming Pools, such markings must also designate depths at all major deviations in shape.

2. The depth marking numbers must be at least 4" minimum height, be a contrasting color with the background, and be permanent. Markings on the vertical pool wall must be positioned to be read from the water side. Markings on the deck must be positioned to be read while standing on the deck facing the water. Deck markings must be slip-resistant.

3. Depth markers shall be marked in units of feet and inches. Abbreviations of “FT” and “IN” may be used in lieu of “FEET” and “INCHES”.

E. Indoor Public Spas may not be individually enclosed.

F. Hotels exempted from lifeguards must provide a functional and visible emergency alert system approved by the Director that:

1. connects directly to 9-1-1; and

2. notifies an employee of the hotel when activated.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. General.

1. A circulation system consisting of pumps, piping, return inlets and suction outlets, filters, and all associated equipment shall be provided for the complete circulation of water. All new Public Pools and Public Spas must have separate dedicated filtering systems.

2. The time required for complete water turnover at Public Swimming Pools and Diving Pools must not exceed 480 minutes, at training pools must not exceed 240 minutes, at wading pools must not exceed 120 minutes, and at Public Spas must not exceed 30 minutes.

3. Circulation components must meet the standards established by both the A.N.S.I. and the National Sanitation Foundation. The circulation components must be installed per the manufacturer’s specifications and accessible for inspection, repair, or replacement.

4. Swimming Pool inlets and outlets must be provided and arranged to produce a uniform circulation of water so as to maintain water clarity and a uniform disinfectant residual throughout the pool.

5. In Public Spas, when only one skimmer is provided, the main drain and skimmer must be connected prior to any valves to prevent entrapment.

B. Inlets - All Swimming Pools.

1. All inlets must be adjustable for flow regulation and located either in the wall at least 12" below normal water level or in the floor of the pool.

2. Inlets must be provided at a minimum rate of one for every 20' of wall perimeter or fraction thereof.

3. Inlets must not be less than 1 ½" in diameter.

4. Inlets from the circulation system must be designed so as not to constitute a hazard to the patron.

C. Outlets - All Swimming Pools.

1. At Public Swimming Pools utilizing side-wall inlets, main drain outlets must be provided in the deepest part of the pool to drain the pool and to return at least 30% of the design rate of flow to the filtration system.

2. At Public Swimming Pools utilizing bottom inlets, main drains must be in the deepest part of the pool.

3. When the main drain outlets are used for pool pump suction, they must not be spaced more than 20' on center. An outlet must not be more than 15' from each side wall. Main drain sumps must be hydrologically based.

4. All main drain sumps and covers must conform with the federal requirements of the Virginia Graeme Baker Act.

D. Surface Skimming Systems.

1. A surface skimming device must be provided at all Public Pools to receive water and floating material from the pool surface as part of the circulation system.

2. The size of the surface skimming system must accommodate at least 70% of the design rate-of-flow when side wall inlets are used, and 100% of the design rate-of-flow, when bottom inlets are used.

3. The surface skimming system must be designed and constructed to skim the pool surface when water level of the pool is maintained at the operating level of the rim or weir device.

4. When a perimeter or gutter system is used, it must extend around the entire perimeter of the pool. Gutters must be located near the top of the pool and designed so that the channel is accessible for cleaning and presents no hazard to the patron. The lip of the gutter must be level throughout the pool and designed to serve as a handhold for patrons. The gutter bottom must slope toward outlets spaced no more than 15' apart. The outlet drains must not be less than 2" in diameter and the total open area of the grating must be at least 1 1/2 times the cross-section of the outlet pipe. Connection to the suction side of the circulation pump must be through a surge tank.

5. Floating weir type skimmers must be recessed into the pool walls. There must be one skimmer provided for each 30' of pool perimeter. Every outdoor pool must be equipped with at least 2 skimmers located in opposite corners, one of which is the north or northeast corner. The skimmers must come equipped with a device for regulating the water flow through the outlet pipe. All new and replacement skimmers must conform with the federal requirements of the Virginia Graeme Baker Act.

6. In wading pools which use floating weir type skimmers, only one skimmer will be required when any of the following conditions are met:

a. All pool dimensions are less than 20'.

b. The surface area is less than 200 square feet.

c. The additional skimmer would provide a rate-of-flow less than 1.67 gallons/minute per inch of weir.

d. The skimmer equalizer line is connected to the main drain sump.

e. The skimmer suction line and the main drain line are connected prior to any valves.

E. Piping System.

1. The piping system must be designed so that it is possible to fill the pool, circulate the pool water through the treatment equipment, return it to the pool, wash the filters, discharge filtered water to waste, drain the entire system, disinfect the circulated water, add other necessary chemicals, and heat the pool water where heating units are provided.

2. All pool piping must be supported by piers, hangers, or other means.

3. All pipes must be capable of being drained or otherwise protected from damage caused by freezing.

4. The piping system in the filter room must be labeled by color coding, permanently tagged valves, or other means. It must be accompanied by a corresponding diagram outlining proper operation and backwash procedures.

5. The water from all new and remodeled Public Swimming Pools and Public Spas must be circulated through a separate, properly sized, and approved filter system.

6. At all installations where water from the pool is returned to an equipment room located below the normal water level of the pool, control valves must be installed on the suction manifold and the return line.

F. Pumps.

1. The pumping equipment must have the ability to circulate the pool water at the required circulation rate at or near maximum efficiency against the maximum total dynamic head developed immediately prior to washing of the filters.

2. Self-priming pumps must be provided when the elevation of the pumps is higher than the normal water level in the pool.

3. Pumps must be accessible for inspection and service. Replacement parts must fit with existing parts in the pump without the need for redrilling mounting holes or otherwise altering the replacement part of the pump.

4. The motor frame must contain adequate provision and be properly grounded.

5. Pumps used on Public Swimming Pools must meet the safety performance requirements of A.N.S.I. and the National Sanitation Foundation standards covering pumps.

6. A cleanable strainer shall be provided upstream of the circulation pump(s) to remove solids, debris, hair, lint, etc., on all pressure filter systems.

7. A spare strainer basket must be provided for each unit.

G. Filtration.

Circulation systems must be equipped with filters which pass the water and retain the suspended matter and have the following characteristics:

1. Filter requirements - General.

a. Filters must be designed to maintain pool water under anticipated operating conditions in accordance with 51.00.01.09A.2 of this regulation.

b. Filters must be designed so that filtration surfaces can be inspected and serviced.

c. Filters must meet the standards established by both the A.N.S.I. and National Sanitation Foundation.

2. Design Rates.

Maximum flow rate of filters must not exceed the requirements established by both the A.N.S.I. and National Sanitation Foundation.

3. On pressure type filters, a pressure gauge or gauges with an appropriate range must be provided.

4. A means must be provided to permit release of air which enters the filter tank. Any filter incorporating an automatic internal air release as its principal means of air release must have lids which provide a slow and safe release of pressures as a part of its design and must have a manual air release in addition to automatic releases. Any separation tank used in conjunction with a filter tank must have a manual means of air release or a lid which provides a slow and safe release of pressures as they are opened as a part of its design.

5. Separation tanks must have a precautionary statement warning the user not to start up the filter pump without first opening the air release unless automatic air vents are a part of the tank and t system. The statement must be visible and noticeable within the area of the air release.

6. Filters must be sized to accommodate or exceed the design flow rate of the system as per manufacturer instructions.

7. Public Pools utilizing cartridge type filters must provide a second complete set of approved filter elements.

8. A tub of sufficient size to hold 1 complete set of filter elements must be provided for cleaning cartridge filter elements.

H. A suction type cleaner must be provided for each pool site.

1. If the suction cleaner is operated by the circulation pump, the suction cleaner line must be connected ahead of the hair and lint catcher. Sufficient pool connections must be provided to allow easy access to all parts of the pool bottom with the cleaner.

2. Portable cleaners may be approved by the Approving Authority.

I. Waste Water Disposal.

1. Backwash water must be discharged into a sanitary sewer or by other means approved by the Approving Authority. No direct connection is permitted between the backwash line and sanitary sewer.

2. A holding tank of sufficient size to handle a backwash volume (minimum 2 minute volume) must be provided. The holding tank must provide an appropriate air gap from the end of the backwash line and connect to sanitary sewer by a maximum 2" pipe.

J. Suitable equipment capable of feeding disinfectants, coagulants, chemicals for pH adjustment, and other required chemicals to the water being circulated must be provided in all pools.

1. Sanitizing equipment must meet the standards established by both the A.N.S.I. and National Sanitation Foundation and be capable of introducing a sufficient quantity of approved sanitizer to maintain the appropriate levels, required under all conditions of intended use.

2. Public Swimming Pools must have independent sanitizing feed systems. Supplemental feeding of sanitizers via the skimmer are prohibited when the pool is in use. Un-dissolved sanitizer must not be present within the skimmer when the pool is in use. Chemical feeders must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification.

a. Chemical feed pumps must be wired so they can not operate unless there is adequate return flow to properly disburse the chemical throughout the pool as designed.

b. Chemical feed pumps that are controlled by automatic sensing devices must have another redundant method to ensure pumps will not operate when there is inadequate flow.

3. Solution containers of sufficient size to adequately serve the pool and constructed of corrosion resistant material must be provided for each machine head of the positive displacement type feeder.

4. No chemical feeder may feed more than one pool.

5. The use of chlorine gas feeding equipment must be approved by the Approving Authority prior to installation.

6. The use of sodium hypochlorite as a sanitizer in an elevated pool application (rooftop) must be approved by the Approving Authority prior to installation.

K. Rate-of-flow meters must be installed on all circulation systems.

1. There must be no impediments to flow upstream and downstream from the indicators for distances according to the manufacture’'s directions.

2. Meters must be placed to separately measure the flow to each pool.

3. Rate-of-flow meters must be of types which:

a. read directly in gallons per minute;

b. have a scale that is permanently etched and calibrated by the manufacturer and covers the range in which the system will operate; and

c. are capable of measuring between 90% of the minimum required flow rate and 110% of the maximum flow rate of the filter(s).

L. Sight glasses must be provided on all backwash lines.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

A. The method of heating the pool water must produce a reasonably uniform water temperature throughout the pool and must not endanger the patrons because of excessive heat or electrical shock.

B. Heat exchangers must be designed to heat all or part of the circulated water and must be provided with easily readable thermometers mounted on the return line after the heater effluent line(s). Heaters at indoor pools must be capable of maintaining the temperature of the pool water at not less than 74° F.

C. At Public Swimming Pools, an automatic temperature limiting device which will prevent the introduction of water in excess of 88° F. must be provided.

D. At Public Spas, an automatic temperature limiting device which will prevent the introduction of water in excess of 104° F. to the pool must be provided.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards

A. Space.

1. Equipment areas or rooms must provide sufficient space and sufficient clearances between pieces of equipment as well as between equipment and walls, floor, and ceiling to permit:

a. The maintenance, operation, and replacement of equipment;

b. Storage of chemicals and supplies without blocking access to equipment;

c. Free drainage of water to points of disposal; and

d. Cleaning of the room or area.

2. There must be a minimum clearance of 16" for maintenance and 6" for operation.

B. Access.

1. Equipment areas must be made inaccessible to the patrons by means of separate enclosed rooms or buildings. Entrance to the areas must be through lockable doors only.

2. Equipment areas must be easily accessible to the. operator from the deck. Access must be provided in any barrier located along the most direct route to the equipment. Steps or ladders must be provided at the equipment area if it lies at a different elevation from the deck.

C. Construction.

1. Floors of equipment areas must be finished in concrete or other impervious material and sloped to a drain so that no accumulation of water will occur.

2. Natural or mechanical ventilation sufficient to maintain the equipment room in a relatively dry condition must be provided.

3. Sufficient artificial light (20 footcandles minimum) to make controls and valves clearly visible must be provided.

4. Off the floor shelving of sufficient strength to handle the storage of chemical containers must be provided and constructed of a nonporous material.

With the exception of Saturdays and Sundays between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., lifeguards are not required to be on duty at a pool that has a water surface area less than 2,500 square feet located on the grounds of a hotel for the exclusive use of its registered guests if:

A. the hotel is properly licensed under Chapter 54;

B. the hotel posts warning signs that meet the following:

1. the size, color, design, application, symbol, and visual layout of a safety sign is in compliance with the ANSI Z-535 series of standards for Safety Signs and Colors as referenced in American National Standard for Public Spas;

2. a safety sign is posted in a permanent location adjacent to a hotel in compliance with the American National Standard for Public Spas;

3. the safety sign includes the user load of the pool;

4. a chemical warning sign is posted at the entrance door to a chemical storage area and includes the text "Caution! Chemical Storage Area";

5. a chemical vat, feeder, pump, and line is labeled to identify the chemical in use;

6. a chlorine gas warning sign reading "Danger—Chlorine Gas" is posted at the entrance to a chlorine gas feed room and storage area;

7. other warning, health advisory, and safety signs are posted, as required by Executive Regulation, if necessary to protect the public health and safety; and

8. a pool that does not have a lifeguard on duty has a conspicuous sign posted adjacent to entrances to the pool reading "Warning: No lifeguard on duty. SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK. Children under the age of 15 are not permitted to use the pool without adult supervision"; and

C. the pool area has a functional and visible emergency alert system approved by the Director of the Department of Health and Human Services that:

1. connects directly to 9-1-1; and

2. notifies an employee of the hotel when activated.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards

A. General.

1. All Public Swimming Pool installations, except those on the premises of motels or other transient residences must include an adjacent bathhouse equipped with showers, toilets, sinks, and dressing rooms.

2. When pool memberships are offered or to be offered at Swimming Pools exempted above, the necessary bathhouse must be provided.

B. Layout.

1. The bathhouse must be laid out so that patrons must pass the showers before entering the pool.

2. The bathhouse must contain space reserved for the manager's use and for first aid equipment and treatment.

C. Construction.

1. Floors of the bathhouse must be continuous throughout the area and relatively smooth, but with a slight texture to minimize slipping. To ensure complete draining, the floor of the bathhouse must be sloped not less than 1/4" per foot toward drains.

2. All partitions between the dressing room area, screen partitions, shower, toilet, and dressing room booths must be of durable material not subject to damage by water, and so designed that a water way is provided between the partition and floor to permit thorough cleaning of the floor areas with hoses and brooms and to increase circulation of air.

3. Lockers, wire baskets, hangers, hooks, or other sanitary means of storing clothing and personal accessories must be provided at each bathhouse.

D. Light and Ventilation.

1. The bathhouse must be artificially illuminated to an intensity of not less than 15 footcandles on all parts of the floor surface at any time. All lights must be protected from breakage by a shatterproof shield.

2. The bathhouse must be provided with natural or mechanical ventilation to permit the maintaining of reasonably dry conditions.

E. Showers, Toilets, and Lavatory Facilities.

1. Minimum sanitary facilities must be provided. The minimum criteria for bathhouse plumbing fixtures is based upon the anticipated maximum attendance of patrons. Plumbing fixtures for either sex is based upon a ratio of 50% of the total number of bathers being male and 50% being female, except where the pool is confined to use by one sex only, wherein 100% of plumbing fixture requirements must be provided for that sex.

2. A minimum of one toilet stall, one sink, and one urinal must be provided for each 100 male bathers or fraction thereof.

3. A minimum of two shower heads must be provided for the first 100 males or fraction thereof. One shower head must be provided for each additional 100 male bathers or fraction thereof. Up to 50% of the required number of showers may be placed on the pool deck.

4. A minimum of two toilet stalls and sinks must be provided in each bathhouse building for the first 100 females or fraction thereof. One additional water closet and sink shall be provided for each additional 100 females or fraction thereof.

5. A minimum of two shower heads must be provided for the first 100 females or fraction thereof. One shower head must be added for each additional 100 females or fraction thereof. Up to 50% of the required number of showers may be placed on the pool deck.

6. Water temperature from all shower heads must be between a minimum of 90°F and a maximum of 115°F, and must be protected by an approved pressure balanced anti-scald device. A minimum flow rate of 2 gpm is required at all showerheads.

7. A soap dispenser must be provided at each sink and shower and the dispenser must be of all shatterproof construction.

8. Mirrors must be provided and must be shatterproof. Toilet paper and holders must be provided at each toilet stall.

9. Fixtures must be installed in accordance with the Washington Suburban Sanitary District Plumbing and Gas Fitting Code or other applicable plumbing code and must be protected against back siphonage.

10. Fixtures must be designed so that they may be readily cleaned. Frequent cleaning and disinfecting must not cause damage.

11. Trash containers must be provided in both men's and women's bathhouses. Covered trash receptacles must be provided in the women's bathhouse.

12. Hose bibs must be provided in the bathhouse so that the dressing rooms, showers, and toilet areas can be cleaned.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

No food or drink is permitted in the Swimming Pool or on the decks within 6 feet of the pool. Trash containers must be provided throughout the immediate premises. A separate permit is required for the preparation and serving of food and drink under regulations governing Eating and Drinking Establishments.

The sections of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.17.01 (2013), Public Swimming Pools and Spas, governing public pool and spa safety and pool and spa operator certification are incorporated for the operating standards of this regulation unless superseded or amended by the following specific standards:

If a court holds that part of this regulation is invalid, the invalidity does not affect other parts.

This regulation takes effect immediately upon the adoption of a resolution of approval by the County Council.