Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 9, September 27, 2024
1. Applicability.
Requirements of this section are applicable to all new construction and
alterations of existing public swimming pools. All work must be performed in
accordance with good engineering practice and recognized industry
standards.
2. Water Supply. All
water used in public swimming pools, drinking fountains, bathhouse, or minimum
toilet facilities, must be supplied from a Public Drinking Water System.
(a) Water for filling pools shall be supplied
by a fillspout that is located at least 2 diameters of the fillspout above the
rim of the swimming pool or an above the rim supply to the surge tank, whereby
no arrangements exist which, under any condition, permits contaminated water to
re-enter the potable water system. The fillspout must be located adjacent (no
greater than six (6) inches away) to a ladder or under a handrail or diving
board and extend to the edge of the coping and not more than one (1) inch past
the edge of the coping. All fillspouts must be of chrome plated brass,
stainless steel, or other equivalent material approved by the
Department.
(b) Where a fillspout
is not employed, an approved double check valve assembly in the line supplying
water to the pool shall be used. The device must be installed in a location
which is accessible for visual inspection and for testing and/or repair. The
double check valve assembly must be tested by a certified tester after
installation and before use by the customer as required by the South Carolina
State Primary Drinking Water Regulations61-58. Each device used must be from
the approved list of backflow prevention devices issued by the Department. The
municipality or water utility which supplies the facility and the Department
shall be provided a copy of the test results. Kiddie pools may be filled via a
hose bibb if it is protected by an ASSE 1024 listed residential dual check or
other Department approved backflow prevention device.
3. Sanitary Sewage. The disposition of
sanitary sewage from the bathhouse or minimum toilet facilities must be into a
sanitary sewer, a septic tank or other waste treatment facility which has been
approved by the Department.
4.
Location. The location of the pool will in no way hinder the operation for
which it is designed nor adversely affect bather's safety or water quality.
Outdoor pools must not be located where they will be exposed to excessive
pollution by dust, smoke, soot, or other undesirable substances. If any portion
of the pool is located within ten (10) feet horizontally of any second story
balcony or any other elevated structure of which the floor elevation is between
two (2) and thirty (30) feet above the pool deck, a protective barrier must be
provided on said balcony or elevated structure. This barrier must be a minimum
of five (5) feet in height and have no openings within this barrier greater
than 4 inches in width. Buildings or structures at the pool deck level only
within ten (10) feet of the pool waterline that have glazing must utilize
tempered safety glass or other shatter resistant safety glazing for any doors
and windows. All indoor pools must be located in adequately ventilated
areas.
5. Material and Finish.
(a) Public swimming pool shells must be
constructed of reinforced concrete or other structurally sound material
equivalent in strength and durability, designed and built to withstand
anticipated stresses, and designed and built of watertight construction with
smooth and impervious surfaces. If a pool structure is to be lined with a
dissimilar material, the two materials must be continually and permanently
bonded so as not to separate at any time or place. American Concrete Institute
standards must be used in design and construction of reinforced concrete
including gunite, shotcrete and other types of acceptable concrete. No vinyl
lined pools or spas are allowed.
(b) A moderately smooth, non-slip white or
light colored water proof finish, which will withstand repeated brushing,
scrubbing and cleaning procedures, must line the pool. Paint, fiberglass, or
epoxy coated finishes shall be non-toxic, water-resistant, of one single very
light color, and must continually and permanently bond so as not to separate at
any time. Colors must have reflectance of fifty-five percent or greater except
for logos. All corners and edges shall be rounded and smooth to prevent cuts or
abrasions to swimmers. All corners and all junctions of walls and floor must be
rounded with a minimum six (6) inch radius. Any variation of this required six
(6) inch radius must be approved on an individual basis.
(c) A minimum six (6) inch glazed frost proof
tile or other easily cleanable surface must be placed at the normal water
line.
(d) Logos or extraneous
writing or materials shall be approved on an individual basis. Color, size and
pattern of logos shall not be such as to obscure the existence or presence of
objects or persons within the pool.
6. Pool Decks.
(a) The deck must be continuous around the
public swimming pool and unobstructed, with minimum widths as follows:
(i) Type "A" six (6) feet
(ii) Type "B" four (4) feet; Type "B" pools
over 1600 square feet, six (6) feet.
(iii) Type "C" four (4) feet
(iv) Type "D" (less than 700 square feet) at
least two (2) feet around one hundred percent or four (4) feet around at least
fifty percent of the facility. Type "D" (700 square feet to 1600 square feet)
at least four (4) feet. Type "D" (greater than 1600 square feet) at least six
(6) feet.
(v) Type "E" flumes,
slides and lazy rivers ten (10) feet around the exit of the landing pool, four
(4) feet around the starting pool. All other Type "E" pools are required to
have a minimum of six (6) feet.
(vi) Type "F". Deck widths for Type "F" pools
will be determined depending on the use of each pool.
(b) Pool decks required in (a) above must be
constructed of broom finish concrete or other material which is as equal in
strength and durability. The deck must be non-slip, impervious and no hazard to
bare feet. The deck must slope The deck must slope one-quarter (1/4) inch to
five-eighths (5/8) inches per foot per foot away from the pool. No wood decking
or carpet is allowed within the required minimum deck widths. If concrete
pavers are used for pool decking, they must be installed per the Interlocking
Concrete Paver Institute (ICPI) code.
(c) A minimum of three (3) feet of deck width
must be provided on the sides and rear of any piece of diving or sliding
equipment, lifeguard chairs, ladders and handrails. Poolside tables and chairs
or other equipment must not obstruct the deck areas within the minimum widths
listed for each type pool.
(d) All
corners and edges of deck or coping must be smooth and round so as to not cause
cuts or abrasions to swimmers. The top of the pool wall must be uniformly level
and designed with bull-nosed coping or some other acceptable means by which an
adequate handhold is provided around the entire pool perimeter.
(e) All deck drainage must be "to waste" and
not be filtered and returned to the pool. Deck drains must be installed where
necessary to prevent standing water on the deck. The deck drain grates shall be
removable or provide for other means so as to facilitate the cleaning of the
drains.
(f) Hose bibbs must be
provided around the perimeter of the deck area at intervals such that all parts
of the deck can be reached with a one hundred (100) foot hose. A hose bibb may
be located in the equipment room. All hose bibbs in the pool area must be
isolated from the public water supply by an ASSE 1024 listed residential dual
check or other Department approved backflow prevention device. If a common ASSE
1024 listed residential dual check valve is installed, it must be located in
either the equipment room, or in a valve box such that it can be maintained and
or replaced as necessary. Also, a shutoff valve must be installed downstream of
the backflow device so the Department can verify that all hose bibs are
protected by the common backflow device. All backflow devices must be installed
so that they are visible at the time of the final inspection.
(g) All outdoor pools shall be provided with
a foot rinse shower at major entrance points, up to a maximum of three (3). The
foot rinse shower must be located within twenty (20) feet of the corresponding
entrance point.
(h) Up to ten
percent (10%) of the pool perimeter may be obstructed. Obstructions shall have
the required minimum deck width behind or through them within fifteen (15) feet
of the water. These obstructions must be protected by a barrier or must be
designed to discourage patron access. When an obstruction exists in multiple
areas around the pool the minimum distance between obstructions shall be four
(4) feet.
7. Depth
Markers. Permanent depth markers must be plainly marked at or above the water
surface on the vertical pool wall and on the edge of the coping or deck next to
the pool, at a maximum and minimum point and at not more than two (2) foot
intermediate increments of depth. Depth markers must also meet the following
requirements:
(a) Depth markers must be
spaced at not more than twenty five (25) foot intervals on center, as measured
around the perimeter of the pool.
(b) A minimum of three (3) sets of evenly
spaced depth markers are required for Type "C" and "D" pools.
(c) One set of markers must be located
adjacent to the steps or handrail.
(d) Depth markers must be in numerals and
letters of four (4) inch minimum height and of a light-colored background (that
is, having a reflectance of fifty-five (55) percent or greater) with dark,
contrasting lettering. Alternative designs, having sufficient contrast, will be
considered on case-by-case basis.
(e) Depth markers must be accurate to within
three (3) inches at normal operating level
(f) The abbreviation "ft." or word "feet"
must be included.
(g) A total of
twelve (12) inches of white background tile must be included as part of each
depth marker(s).
(h) Depth markers
are required for all pools, kiddie pools, spas, hot tubs, special water park
pools, etc. Kiddie spray decks do not require depth markers.
(i) Depth markers on the deck must be
non-slip and must start within fifteen (15) inches of the pool edge.
(j) In pools requiring "No Diving" signs, a
single six inch by six inch universal no diving tile must be co-located with
each set of deck depth marker tiles.
(k) Metric depth markers may be installed at
any facility in addition to the standard markers required above.
(l) Depth markers for pools with multiple
slopes (bowl shaped and diving wells) must accurately reflect the minimum depth
at the edge of the pool and the maximum depth at the center of the pool and
separated by a hyphen. For example, a pool sloping from all sides to the center
would require the installation of the following depth markers, "3 FT - 5
FT".
(m) Alternative types of depth
markers will be considered on a case by case basis for pools using stainless
steel gutters or fiberglass shells.
(n) Depth markers shall be verified by
measuring the depth at a distance of two (2) feet from the edge of the
pool.
8. Fences.
(a) All outdoor Type "A" and "E" public
swimming pools (including the deck area) must be enclosed by a chain link fence
or equal barrier of minimum six (6) foot height to prevent trespassing and to
provide safety and cleanliness of the water. Type B and Type E pools that have
a slide that is only in use when lifeguards are present must have the entry and
exit points of the slide secured by either a six (6) foot high fence, or
another method approved by the Department. All openings in the barrier must be
equipped with gates or doors, with latches, that close automatically and can be
locked. No openings in the fence shall be large enough for a four (4) inch
sphere to pass. Local building codes for the pool location may require a
smaller fence opening.
(b) All
outdoor Type "B", "C", "D" and "F" public swimming pools (including the deck
area) shall be enclosed by a minimum four foot fence as measured from the
exterior of the pool area. All openings in the barrier must be equipped with
gates or doors, with latches, that close and latch automatically and can be
locked. Courtyard fencing may not be adequate to constitute fencing of the pool
area. No openings in the fence shall be large enough for a four (4) inch sphere
to pass. Local building codes for the pool location may require a smaller fence
opening.
9. Equipment
Room.
(a) A suitable equipment room shall be
provided to house all pool equipment to prevent unauthorized access. The room
shall be of substantial and enduring construction to protect the equipment from
damp, corrosive environment. This room shall have a roof, be at least eight (8)
feet high and have a standard size lockable entrance door. Where equipment
rooms are constructed at a different elevation than the surroundings, permanent
steps should be provided for entry. The equipment room must be sized so that
all equipment is accessible for ease of operation and inspection. The equipment
room door must be sized to allow for the largest filter in the room to pass
through. At least three feet of clear walkway must be provided to allow access
to the equipment. The room must have at least one (1) watt of artificial light
for each square foot of floor area with a minimum of 100 watts incandescent, or
equivalent. Continuously operated forced ventilation must be provided during
pool operation so that the equipment room has a minimum of ten (10) complete
air changes per hour and is vented to the outside and away from the pool. The
light switch must be separate from the fan switch if a fan switch is provided.
The floor shall be concrete and shall include necessary sumps. The floors must
be sloped to drain to either floor drains or to the sump. All sump pits must be
provided with a protective grate or covering capable of supporting a person.
Sump pits that are protected by walls extending three (3) feet or more above
the floor elevation do not have to have a protective grate. The purpose of this
room is for recirculation system equipment only and storage of any other
material or equipment is prohibited. Equipment rooms constructed below grade
must be provided with reasonable access so as not to be considered a confined
space. An emergency disconnect (e.g. shunt trip breaker) switch that
disconnects all pumps in the equipment room must be located on the pool deck
and clearly labeled with a minimum of four (4) inch red letters on a white
background that states "Pool Emergency Cut-Off Switch".
(b) A suitable alternative to the above room
will be considered on a case by case basis as long as the pool equipment is
protected from a damp and corrosive environment, vandalism, and has adequate
access for maintenance.
(c) All
equipment must be installed per the manufacturer's recommendations, including
equipment clearances.
10. Chemical Storage. All pool chemicals must
be housed in a separate room from the equipment room. The chemical storage room
must have at least one (1) watt of artificial light for each square foot of
floor area with a minimum of 100 watts incandescent or equivalent light.
Continuously operated forced ventilation must be provided so that the chemical
storage room has a minimum of ten (10) complete air changes per hour and is
vented to the outside. The light switch must be separate from the fan switch if
a fan switch is provided. The pool chemical room must be kept dry and locked at
all times. Only chemicals used in the operation of the pool shall be stored in
this room. Chemical storage rooms constructed below grade must be provided with
reasonable access so as not to be considered a confined space.
11. Drinking Fountain. At least one (1)
drinking fountain shall be provided within fifty (50) feet of the pool at all
public pools. All electrical drinking water fountain wiring must be in
accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).
12. Emergency Notification Device. A toll
free emergency notification device to notify emergency personnel must be
provided within a two hundred (200) foot walking distance of the pool and in a
location that it is easily accessible during the hours that the pool is in
operation. Only permanently-mounted notification devices are acceptable to the
Department. Mobile, voice over internet, or cordless telephones are not an
acceptable alternative to permanently-mounted emergency notification devices.
The physical address of the pool must be displayed at the emergency
notification phone or device in a manner that is permanent and weather
resistant.
13. Bathhouse
Facilities. Dressing and sanitary plumbing facilities must be provided for all
Type "A" and "E" public swimming pools that charge for admission. Bathhouse
facilities shall be located within two hundred (200) feet of the swimming pool.
Applicable Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines shall be observed. Every
bathhouse must be provided with separate facilities for each sex with no
inter-connection between the male and female facilities. The rooms must be so
developed and planned that good sanitation can be maintained throughout the
building at all times.
(a) Minimum Fixtures.
Minimum sanitary plumbing fixtures for Type "A" and "E" pools must be provided
as follows:
(i) Males. One (1) water closet,
one (1) lavatory, and one (1) urinal for the first one-hundred (100) male
swimmers, or major fraction thereof. One (1) additional water closet, lavatory
and urinal must be provided for each additional two hundred (200) male swimmers
or major fraction thereof. A minimum of two (2) showers for the first one
hundred (100) male swimmers and one (1) shower for each additional fifty (50)
male swimmers or major fraction thereof.
(ii) Females. A minimum of two (2) water
closets and one (1) lavatory for the first one hundred (100) female swimmers,
or major fraction thereof. Two (2) additional water closets and one (1)
lavatory must be provided for each additional two hundred (200) female swimmers
or major fraction thereof. A minimum of two (2) showers for the first
one-hundred (100) female swimmers and one (1) shower for each additional fifty
(50) female swimmers or major fraction thereof.
(b) Hose Bibbs. Hose bibbs located at least
ten (10) inches above the floor must be provided for washing down the dressing
rooms and bathhouse interior. Each hose bibb must be provided with an ASSE 1024
listed residential dual check or other Department approved backflow prevention
device.
(c) Floors. The floors of
the bathhouse must be of impervious material, relatively smooth but not a slick
finish, to ensure complete cleaning. Floor drains must be installed and must be
a minimum of four (4) inches in diameter to ensure positive drainage of all
parts of the building, with a slope in the floor of not less than one-fourth
(1/4) inch per foot, toward the drains. Carpet shall not be used on bathhouse
floors.
(d) Materials and Finish.
Materials and finishes used in bathhouses and/or restrooms are subject to
approval by the Department. All screen, shower, toilet and dressing room booth
partitions must be made of durable materials not subject to damage by water and
must be so designed that each area can be adequately drained.
(e) Steps. No steps will be allowed in the
interior of any dressing rooms.
(f)
Light and Ventilation. Showers and dressing room areas must be furnished with
one (1) watt of incandescent light for each square foot of floor area and have
adequate ventilation.
(g) Soap
Dispensers. Soap dispensers for providing either liquid or powdered soap must
be provided at each lavatory or between each pair of lavatories. Soap
dispensers providing either liquid or powdered soap must be provided at each
shower head or between each pair of shower heads.
(h) Mirrors. Mirrors, if provided, must be
shatter-resistant.
(i) Toilet Paper
Holders. Toilet paper holders must be provided at each water closet.
(j) Tempered Water. Tempered water only must
be provided at all shower heads. Water heater and thermostatic mixing valves
must be inaccessible to bathers and must be capable of providing two (2)
gallons per minute of water to each shower head. The temperature of the water
must not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and must have an automatic cut-off
thermostat set at 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
(k) Towels. Single service paper towel
dispensers or blower type hand dryers must be provided.
14. Minimum Toilet Facilities.
(a) Minimum toilet facilities shall be
provided within a three hundred (300) foot walking distance of Type "B", "C",
"D", "F" pools and Type "A" and "E" facilities that do not charge for
admission. Minimum toilet facilities must consist of at least one (1) lavatory
and one (1) water closet for each sex. Floors must be of impervious materials
and relatively smooth, but not have a slick finish. Each room must be furnished
with a minimum of 60 watts of incandescent light and have adequate ventilation.
Soap dispensers for providing either liquid or powdered soap must be provided
at each lavatory or between each pair of lavatories. Mirrors, if provided, must
be made of shatter-resistant material. Single service paper towel dispensers or
blower type hand dryers must be provided. Toilet paper holders must be provided
at each water closet. Floors must be well drained to prevent standing water.
Carpet shall not be used on the floors.
(b) Minimum toilet facilities are not
required if all living units are within a three hundred (300) foot walking
distance of the nearest water's edge and are each equipped with private
facilities.
15.
Filtration System.
(a) Diatomite Filters.
Filters must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation
Foundation. Filters may be of either pressure or vacuum type. The filter rate
must not exceed two (2) gallons per minute per square foot of filter surface
area. Provisions must be made for backwashing the filter at not less than two
(2) gallons per minute per square foot of filter surface area. The filter(s)
must be provided with pressure or vacuum gauges for determining the need for
backwashing and sight glass to determine when backwash is clear.
(b) High Rate Sand Filters. Filters must be
approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). The
filter rate may not exceed fifteen (15) gallons per minute per square foot of
filter surface area. A higher rate may be allowed if approved by the NSF.
Provisions must be made for backwashing the filter(s) at the manufacturer's
recommended backwash rate. The filter(s) must be provided with pressure gauges
for determining the need for backwashing, backwash sight glass, and air-relief
device.
(c) Cartridge Filters.
Filters must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation
Foundation. The filters must be of a disposable or washable element. Surface
types must have a maximum flow rate of 0.375 gallons per minute for each square
foot of effective filter area. A spare cartridge filter must be provided at
each site where these types of filters are used. A sump pit and or hard piped
drain line must be installed to handle the design flow rate of the
recirculation system. If connected to a sanitary sewer system or municipal
separate storm sewer system, specific approval must be obtained from the
municipality or sewer authority for such discharge.
(d) Other Filters. The National Sanitation
Foundation and/or the Department must approve any filters other than those
described above before they can be considered for use in the recirculation
system for public swimming pools.
16. Filter Backwash. Backwash from the
filter(s) must be piped to a disposal pit, tile field, or other disposal method
approved by the Department. If the backwash water is to be discharged to a
sanitary sewer system or municipal separate storm sewer system, specific
approval must be obtained from the municipality or sewer authority for such
discharge. If the method of backwash will be to an on-site storm sewer system,
the location of the discharge and the name and distance of any receiving body
of water must be identified on the project plans. Any discharge of backwash
water to a water body must receive prior approval from the Department. All
pools that directly discharge backwash water to waters of the State or stocked
ponds must be equipped with an appropriately sized dechlorination device. If
the method of backwash disposal will be to a pit or tile field, the location of
discharge must be identified on the project plans and the receptacle must be
adequately sized to accept the pool drainage. Also, a three (3) minute backwash
cycle must be conducted at the time of the final inspection to ensure that
there is adequate capacity of the disposal system. A minimum six (6) inch air
gap must be maintained at the discharge point or two (2) single in-line check
valves must be installed in the backwash line. The receptacle must be
sufficiently sized to accommodate the backwash flow.
17. Pool Drainage. The method and location of
discharge employed to drain the pool must be included on the project plans and
the receptacle must be adequately sized to accept the pool drainage. If the
pool drains to a sanitary sewer system or municipal separate storm sewer
system, specific approval must be obtained from the municipality or sewer
authority for such discharge.
18.
Rate of Flow Indicator. Every public swimming pool must be provided with a rate
of flow indicator located on the discharge line from the filters. Rate of flow
indicators must be accurate to +" or - 5% and installed according to
manufacturer's instructions. Dimensions must be shown on the schematic diagram,
indicating the actual location of the rate of flow indicator. The rate of flow
indicator must be calibrated for and provided with a scale reading in gallons
per minute and shall have an upper range at least ten (10) percent above the
maximum design flow rate. The scale resolution of the meter must fall within
the design flow of the system. The activating element of the flow indicators
must be installed in the filter effluent line. The flow meter must be mounted
in a location such that it can be easily read.
19. Heater. Heaters, where used, shall be
installed and operated in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and
local building codes to include proper ventilation. The heater design must be
such that it will not affect the minimum required design flowrate. A thermostat
control must be provided with an automatic cut-off for an upper limit of 104
degrees Fahrenheit and above. Solar panels may be used as a pool heater
provided that the materials used in the solar panels must be non-toxic and
acceptable for use with potable water. Data verifying the material is non-toxic
must be submitted to the department for review and approval at the time the
application is made. Pools equipped with solar panel heaters shall have a fixed
thermometer mounted in the pool recirculation line downstream from the heater
outlet. All equipment and appurtenance used to operate a solar panel heater
must meet the applicable portions of R.61-51.
20. Pump and Motor. Pumps and motors under
five (5) horsepower must be National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) approved or
must be equally listed by a Testing Lab approved by the Department. The pump
and motor must be of adequate size and capacity to provide the required pool
turnover rate and should be located so as to eliminate the need for priming. If
pump or suction piping is located above the overflow level of the pool, the
pump must be self-priming. The pump and motor must be designed to supply,
without overloading, the required design rate at a total dynamic head
sufficient to overcome the friction losses in the piping, appurtenances, and
the maximum headloss through the filter(s). Unless headloss calculations are
provided by the designing engineer, pump design must be based on an assumed
total dynamic head of fifty five (55) feet of water. All pumps must be provided
with a corrosion-resistant strainer to remove solids, debris, hair, lint, etc.
Pool pump motors must have a directly accessible on/off switch within three (3)
feet horizontal distance of the pump(s). Pump(s) shall not be activated by a
panel circuit breaker. All pumps shall be installed in accordance with the
National Electrical Code (NEC). A device for regulating the rate of flow may be
provided in the recirculation pump discharge piping.
21. Water Treatment. Equipment for halogen
disinfection (chlorine, bromine) must be provided on all pools. This equipment
must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation Foundation.
The equipment must be of such capacity to feed one (1) pound of free available
chlorine per ten-thousand (10,000) gallons of pool volume per twenty-four (24)
hour period in all pools. The equipment must be operable at all times that the
recirculation system is in operation. This equipment must be installed in
accordance with the approved manufacturer's instructions. The equipment
manufacturer's name and model number of chemical feeder, as well as the size
and number of feeding tanks must be furnished. All chemical feed pumps must be
wired directly to the recirculation pump such that when recirculation flow
stops chemical feed is halted. GAS CHLORINATION IS NOT PERMITTED. No chemical
may be manually fed while the pool is open for operation. Supplemental water
treatment systems may be approved on a case by case basis. Chemical feed
containers for use with liquid feed systems, in excess of fifteen (15) gallons,
must be provided with spill containment and must be clearly labeled. A detailed
drawing must be included on the project plans. Ultraviolet (UV) or ozone
disinfection may be added to any pool in addition to the minimum required
disinfection.
22. Separate System.
Each individual pool constructed must have its own pump, motor, filter,
disinfection equipment, piping, etc., such that it is a complete unit and not
dependent upon any other recirculation system, except as provided otherwise in
these regulations. Separate recirculation systems are required for
indoor-outdoor pools with a separate and independent system for both the indoor
and outdoor bodies of water.
23.
Automatic Controller. If an automatic controller is to be used, the device must
be installed in accordance with the approved manufacturer's instructions. The
chemical feed pump(s) must also be directly wired to the recirculation pump and
a flow switch such that when the recirculation flow stops, the chemical feed
pumps are switched off. Other alternatives that provide redundancy will be
considered by the Department on a case-by-case basis.
24. Piping.
(a) The determination of sizes of pipe,
fittings, and valves on the complete main pump suction line from the swimming
pool must be based upon a rate of friction loss for piping of not more than six
(6) feet per one-hundred (100) feet based upon the Hazen-Williams formula using
the following "C" values:
|
Iron Pipe: c =
|
100
|
|
Copper Pipe: c =
|
120
|
|
PVC Pipe: c =
|
150
|
(b)
All piping on the discharge side of the pump for filtration and to the point
for discharge of backwash water from the filter plant must have pipe sizes
determined on a basis for friction losses which must not be more than twelve
(12) feet per one-hundred (100) feet using "C" values given above.
(c) If PVC pipe is used it must be schedule
40 or greater, the chart below lists the maximum flow allowable in gallons per
minute (gpm) for the indicated pipe sizes at 6'/100' suction loss and 12'/100'
pressure loss for schedule 40 PVC plumbing.
|
Pipe Sizes in Inches
|
Suction at 6'/100' (flow in gpm)
|
Pressure at 12'/100' (flow in gpm)
|
|
1 1/2 "
|
27
|
39
|
|
2"
|
57
|
83
|
|
2 1/2 "
|
105
|
150
|
|
3"
|
165
|
245
|
|
4"
|
355
|
510
|
|
5"
|
640
|
925
|
|
6"
|
1000
|
1500
|
(d)
All piping must be hydrostatically tested under pressure prior to being covered
by earth, deck or pool structure. Minimum pressure for testing shall be thirty
(30) psi or one and one half (1 1/2) times the normal operating pressure on the
return line, whichever is greater. Pressure must be maintained constant for two
(2) hours. PVC pipe must be approved by the American National Standards
Institute/National Sanitation Foundation or other laboratory acceptable to the
Department with the ANSI/NSF or equal designated seal on each section of pipe.
Only SD 26 Class 160 and SD 21 Class 200 PVC pipe meeting ASTM Standard D1785
or D2241 are acceptable in sizes twelve (12) inches and smaller. No heat
bending of PVC pipe is allowed. All pool piping, angles, and elbows must be
braced and supported to preclude possible settlement or rupture of the line.
Gravity waste lines around the pool six (6) inches or smaller must have a
minimum slope of one-fourth (1/4) inch per foot toward the effluent point.
Lines larger than six (6) inches and all out-fall waste lines must be designed
with a size of pipe and slope to maintain a minimum velocity of two (2) feet
per second with no overload or back pressure in the lines. All piping and
equipment must be provided as much as possible with positive means of
completely draining all water to prevent damage from freezing. All piping in
the equipment room must be permanently marked with directional arrows and
identified as to origin and use, e.g., surface skimmer, main drains, etc. No
flexible piping may be installed as part of the pool recirculation or booster
systems. NSF PVC flexible piping may only be used for spa air lines and must be
glued at all joints.
25.
Pool Inlets and Outlets.
(a) All inlets and
outlets must be provided and arranged to produce complete recirculation of
water and the maintenance of uniform disinfectant throughout the pool. Relative
placement of inlets and skimmers shall not produce short circuiting of the
recirculation water. There must be at least four (4) return inlets, except for
facilities covered under Section E and F. Wall return inlets must have variable
orifice, directional flow fittings so that the flow pattern can be adjusted.
Floor return inlets may be installed if they are uniformly spaced, if the
number of floor return inlets provided meets the requirements of
R.61-51.C.25(b). The maximum flow per inlet for all recirculation and booster
system return inlets is twenty-five (25) gpm or a velocity of no greater than
forty (40) feet per second per inlet. A minimum of ten (10) gpm must be
provided per inlet. If necessary, the recirculation system shall be upgraded to
meet the ten (10) gallon per minute requirement to ensure proper distribution
of disinfectant.
(b) In pools with
surface area greater than fifteen hundred (1,500) square feet, or length in
excess of sixty (60) feet, inlets must be placed around the entire perimeter at
maximum fifteen (15) foot intervals. In any case, an adequate number of inlets
must be provided, properly spaced and located so as to accomplish complete
recirculation and maintenance of a uniform and adequate level of disinfecting
medium at all times. Approved inlets may be installed uniformly in the pool
floor if the requirement of one (1) inlet per fifteen (15) feet of pool
perimeter is met. All pool inlets must be corrosion resistant types and wall
inlets must have means to adjust the flow pattern.
26. Overflow/Skimming Devices. All public
swimming pools must have one (1) of the following types of surface skimming
devices. Skimming action must be provided at all times when the recirculation
system is in operation. Total capacity of all overflow/skimming devices in any
pool must be at least one hundred percent (100%) of the required filter flow of
the recirculation system.
(a) Perimeter
Overflow Gutters. These gutters may be of the recessed or roll-out type. If
recessed gutters are used, they must be located near the top of the pool wall
and must have a minimum depth of three (3) inches. They must be uniformly level
and be designed to serve as a handhold. The gutter drain outlets shall be
constructed of non-corrosive material and must be placed on a maximum of
fifteen (15) foot centers; gutter branch lines must be a minimum of two (2)
inches in diameter. The gutter bottom must slope toward these outlets with a
minimum slope of one-eight (1/8) inch per foot. The gutter must be easily
accessible for cleaning. The opening into the gutter must not be less than four
(4) inches wide.
(i) When perimeter overflow
gutters are used, a surge capacity must be provided to accommodate excess water
that cannot be satisfactorily accommodated by the recirculation system. Surge
capacity must be not less than one gallon for each square foot of pool surface.
Recovery time required to return the overflow system to skimming action after
maximum pool displacement has ceased must be minimized. Credit may be given for
in pool surge capacity provided that the gutter is designed to serve in this
manner and skimming action is provided over the complete range of water
levels.
(ii) Roll-out gutters must
have a width of eight (8) to twelve (12) inches and must have an edge that is
uniformly level. The lip of the gutter must have a minimum pitch of one (1)
inch to twelve (12) inches of width. Gutter drains of non-corrosive material
must be located on maximum eight (8) foot centers; gutter branch lines must be
a minimum of one and one-half (1 1/2) inches in diameter. The gutter must slope
toward these outlets with a minimum slope of one-eighth (1/8) inch per
foot.
(iii) Requests for gutters
differing from those described above will be reviewed for approval on an
individual basis after supporting engineering data, including complete
hydraulics of the proposed gutter system and connecting piping has been
submitted. Gutter systems must be designed so that skimming action will occur
over the complete range of water levels from quiescence to full bather
load.
(b) Recirculating
Surface Skimmers. At least one (1) NSF listed skimmer must be provided for each
four hundred (400) square feet of pool surface area, or major fraction thereof.
(i) Skimmers must be located so that the
middle of the skimmer is positioned three (3) to seven (7) inches below the
pool coping such that the normal operating water level of the pool is the
middle of the skimmer. In lazy rivers, this depth may be increased to nine and
one half (9.5) inches. The skimmer throat shall be made of tile and recessed a
minimum of six (6) inches from the inside pool wall with a minimum of eighteen
(18) inches opening in the pool wall angling into the skimmer throat opening
(see diagram).
(ii) Skimmer weirs
must be automatically adjustable to variations in water level over a range of
at least three (3) inches.
(iii) An
easily removable and cleanable basket, or screen, through which all overflow
water must pass must be provided in each skimmer to trap large solids. One
extra skimmer basket shall be provided for each pool.
(iv) The skimmer must be provided with an
equalizer pipe to prevent airlock in the suction lines. This pipe must provide
an adequate amount of make-up water for pump suction should the water of the
pool drop below weir level. It must be at least one and one half (1 1/2) inches
in diameter and be located at least one (1) foot below the lowest overflow
level of the skimmer. It must be provided with a valve or equivalent device
that will remain tightly closed during normal operating conditions, but will
automatically open when the water level drops as much as two (2) inches below
the lowest weir level.
(v) The
overflow weir must operate at all flow variations expected, and must be of such
buoyancy and design so as to develop an effective velocity over the weir
lip.
(vi) The skimmer must be of
substantial, enduring and corrosion-resistant material. Each skimmer must have
a device to control flow.
(vii)
Where concrete pavers are used for decking, the skimmers must be anchored in
place with concrete to prevent them from settling.
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27. Safety Equipment.
(a) Lifeguard Chairs. There must be a minimum
of one (1) lifeguard chair provided for each two-thousand (2,000) square feet
of pool surface or major fraction thereof for Type "A" and "E" pools. Where two
(2) or more lifeguard chairs are required they shall be strategically located
to provide adequate coverage for all bathers. Lifeguard chairs must be elevated
to such a height that will allow complete survey of the pool swimming
area.
(b) Life Saving Equipment.
All pools must be equipped with at least one (1) unit of life saving equipment
must be inside the fence and be within two hundred (200) feet walking distance
from any point on the pool perimeter. This equipment must be located within the
pool area and inside the fence. One (1) unit of life saving equipment must be
provided for each lifeguard chair. Life saving equipment is not required at
Type "C" and "D" pools. All life saving equipment must be visible from the deck
and unimpeded access must be provided.
(c) Emergency Equipment. All Type "A" and "E"
pools must be equipped with at least one (1) unit of emergency
equipment.
(d) First Aid Kit. All
Type "A" and "E" pools must have a first aid kit. This kit must be readily
accessible when the pool is open to the public.
28. Signs.
(a) All signs must be clearly displayed
around the pool and must be free of obstructions including
vegetation.
(b) Pool Rules Sign. At
least one (1) "Pool Rules" sign for informational purposes must be posted such
that the sign is visible from all entrance points of the pool and must contain,
as a minimum, the items listed below, with the blanks reflected in (xii)
through (xvi) below filled in before authorized operation:
(i) There should be no solo
swimming.
(ii) There should be no
running, boisterous or rough play.
(iii) No person under the influence of
alcohol or drugs should use the pool.
(iv) There should be no spitting or blowing
nose in pool.
(v) Persons with
diarrheal illness or nausea should not enter the pool.
(vi) Persons with skin, eye, ear or
respiratory infections should not enter the pool.
(vii) Persons with open lesions or wounds
should not enter the pool.
(viii)
No animals or pets allowed in the pool.
(ix) No glass allowed in the pool or on the
deck.
(x) No children should be in
the pool without supervision.
(xi)
You should take a shower before entering the pool.
(xii) This pool is open from a.m. to
p.m.
(xiii) The maximum number of
swimmers allowed in the pool is .
(xiv) A first aid kit is located .
(xv) An emergency phone (or other
notification device) is located .
(xvi) Life saving equipment is located at
.
(c) No Diving Sign. In
addition to the above sign, permanent and separate "NO DIVING ALLOWED" signs
must be displayed in conspicuous locations at all pools of surface area greater
than two hundred (200) square feet and not having dimensions adequate for
diving. The sign must read in all capitalized letters "SHALLOW WATER - NO
DIVING ALLOWED" and must have minimum four (4) inch lettering for "SHALLOW
WATER" and six (6) inch lettering for "NO DIVING ALLOWED". Two (2) or more
signs must be provided so as to be clearly visible to anyone entering the pool.
This sign may be required on Type "C", "D", "E", "F", and "G" pools if the
Department decides the signs are applicable.
(d) No Lifeguard on Duty Sign. In addition to
the above signs, permanent and separate "NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY" signs must be
displayed in conspicuous locations. The sign must read in all capitalized
letters "NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY - SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK" and must have minimum
six (6) inch lettering for "NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY" and must have minimum four
(4) inch lettering for "SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK". Two (2) or more signs must be
provided and be clearly visible to anyone entering the pool. These signs are
required on all Type "B", "C", "D", "F", and "G" pools that do not have
lifeguards.
(e) Spa Caution Sign.
In addition to a pool rules sign, heated spas must also have a waterproof sign
with bold lettering which is clearly visible and contains the following warning
statement: CAUTION
CAUTION
(i) Elderly
persons and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood
pressure should consult their physician before using the spa.
(ii) The use of this spa while under the
influence of alcohol, anticoagulants, antihistamines, vasoconstrictors,
vasodilators, stimulants, hypnotics, narcotics or tranquilizers should be
avoided.
(iii) Pregnant women
should not use the spa without consulting their physician.
(iv) Persons should spend no more than
fifteen (15) minutes in the spa at any one (1) session. Long exposures may
result in nausea, dizziness or fainting.
(v) The maximum temperature recommended by
the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, for any spa
is 104°F. The actual temperature of this spa at ___ o'clock today is
___°F.
(f) Pool
Operator Sign. A sign must be posted or language must be added to the "Pool
Rules" sign which reads, "The Pool Operator at this facility is __________
State license number __________."
29. Main Drains.
(a) A minimum of two (2) main drains must be
provided on the bottom floor of the pool with at least one (1) at the lowest
point of the floor to completely drain the entire pool. All such outlets must
be interconnected and each drain must be directly connected to the main drain
line. The interconnecting line must be adequately sized to accommodate one
hundred (100) percent of the recirculation or booster pump flow. The main drain
spacing must not be greater than twenty (20) feet nor less than three (3) feet
on centers, nor shall they be more than fifteen (15) feet from any side wall.
Interconnecting and outlet pipes must be flush with side wall and/or floor of
main drain sump. If the pool is intended for fire protection the main drains
and piping associated must be sized appropriately and shown on the
plans.
(b) Each outlet grate area
must be sized to accommodate 100% of the recirculation flow and the velocity
through the open area of the grate must not be greater than one and one-half (1
1/2) feet per second. Each drain sump or pot must be of adequate depth and
design to provide for uniform suction across the entire grate area. Outlet
grates must be anchored with corrosion resistant screws that cannot be removed
without the use of tools and slots must not be more than one-half (1/2) inch
wide. When the outlet fittings are of the anti-vortex type, maximum entrance
velocities may be increased to six (6) feet per second. All outlet grates must
be of corrosion resistant materials.
(c) Hydrostatic relief valves must be
incorporated into at least one of the lowest main drain sumps or a well point
system must be provided. These may not be required when the bottom of the pool
is above the high water table.
30. Overflow. Overflows are required for all
indoor pools having a volume of fifteen hundred (1,500) gallons or greater. If
overflow connections are not provided in skimmers or surge tanks, some type of
overflow must be built into the pool wall which will be of sufficient size to
carry off water that could be supplied by the fill spout, rainfall, or
automatic fill device. All such overflow devices must drain to an approved
location and must have a minimum six (6) inch air gap or check valve. Overflows
must discharge to a location that drains away from the pool area such that the
discharge remains visible when overflowing.
31. Electrical and Illumination Requirements.
Artificial lighting must be provided at all public swimming pools which are to
be used at night or which do not have adequate natural lighting so that all
portions of the pool, including the bottom, may be readily seen without glare.
(a) Underwater Lighting. Where underwater
lighting is used, not less than 0.5 watts of incandescent lighting or 8.35
lumens must be provided per square foot of pool area. An adequate number of
lights must be used and properly positioned so that all portions of the pool
are clearly visible to an observer on the pool deck. Fiberoptic lighting may
only be installed as a supplement to the minimum lighting requirements outlined
above. Colored lights that do not provide for an equivalent light output to the
wattage or lumens noted above for clear lights cannot be used.
(b) Area Lighting. Where underwater lighting
is used, uniform area lighting must be provided for the deck area and directed
toward the deck area and away from the pool surface insofar as practical.
Illumination of the pool deck surface must be at least ten (10) foot candles of
intensity, or not less than 0.6 watts of incandescent light or 10 lumens per
square foot. Where underwater lighting is not used and night swimming is
permitted, uniform area lighting must be provided in an amount of not less than
thirty-two (32) foot candles of intensity, or not less than two 2 watts of
incandescent light or 33.5 lumens per square foot of pool area in addition to
0.6 watts of incandescent light or ten (10) foot candles of intensity per
square foot of deck area. These lights must be placed around the pool area such
that all sections and depths of the pool are clearly visible at all times.
Light fixtures located within the pool area must be protected by a
non-breakable lens.
(c) Overhead
Conductors, Wiring and Lights.
(i) Overhead
conductors and wiring not in conduit must not pass within an area extending a
distance of twenty (20) feet horizontally away from the inside edge of the pool
walls, diving structures, observation stands, towers, or platforms. No pool can
be constructed under an existing utility owned supply conductor in accordance
with the current edition of the National Electrical Safety Code.
(ii) There shall be no light fixtures or
conductor splices directly above the water surface at any outdoor pool. Indoor
pools must comply with the same restriction except that light fixtures
protected by a non-breakable lens are allowed.
(d) Wiring and grounding for lights and all
electrical power for swimming pool equipment must conform to the codes of the
current edition of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) National
Electric Code. All electrical circuits within the pool area including all
accessory equipment, electric drinking water fountains, and bathhouse/minimum
toilet facility receptacles are required to meet the current edition of the
NFPA National Electric Code; provided, however, all such circuits shall have
ground fault protection regardless of their proximity to the pool. Exceptions
may be granted for lighting and fixtures that are twenty-five (25) feet or more
above the pool deck and would not pose a risk of electrocution. Junction boxes
must be above the pool water level and must not be a trip hazard.
32. Instructions For Operation.
(a) The specifications and/or plans for all
public swimming pools must include the provision that upon completion of any
swimming pool, the builder must give the owner and his operators complete
written and oral instructions in the operation of the pool and all equipment,
in the chemistry of swimming pool water and specific details covering the
maintenance of the equipment. Also, these instructions and provisions must
consist of the operation of the entire facility under the builder's observation
for a minimum of three (3) days. All valves must be permanently tagged and
identified as to use and a valve operating schedule must be provided for every
operation.
(b) Instructions,
including the valve schedule, must be supplied in not less than two (2) copies.
These must be encased in a water proof covering with one (1) copy permanently
posted on the equipment room wall.
33. Equipment Acceptance. Any equipment to be
used in public swimming pools must be approved by the National Sanitation
Foundation Testing Laboratory, Inc., Ann Arbor, Michigan, or other laboratories
acceptable to the Department, where applicable.
34. Swimming and Deck Limits.
(a) The total number of persons which can
safely utilize a swimming pool facility shall be based upon the sum of the
following areas:
(i) Swimming Area. (The area
between the transition point and the diving area) One (1) person for each
twenty-five (25) square feet of surface area.
(ii) Shallow Area. One (1) person for each
ten (10) square feet of surface area.
(iii) Deck Area. One (1) person for each
thirty-three (33) square feet of the required minimum deck area.
(iv) Type "D" Pools. One (1) person for each
ten (10) square feet of surface area.
(b) The pool capacity determination is not
applicable for Type "C" and "E" pools.
(c) Diving Area. An area extending a ten (10)
foot radius from the extremity of a diving board or tower will be considered as
reserved for divers, and not more than one (1) person shall be permitted in the
water in this area at any time diving is in progress. Only one (1) person is
allowed on any diving board at one time.
35. Steps and Ladders. At least one (1)
ladder/steps must be provided for each seventy-five (75) feet of pool
perimeter. Two (2) or more ladders/steps must be provided for all Type "A" and
"B" pools.
(a) Ladders - All ladders must
have a minimum of three (3) tread design and must include treads of non-slip
construction. All ladders must be commercially-rated and designed so as to be
secured tightly in place when the pool is in operation unless they are removed
for certain aquatic events. Grab rail recess step type ladders can be used in
lieu of the standard three (3) tread ladder.
(b) Steps - Steps shall have a minimum tread
width of twelve (12) inches, a maximum rise of eleven (11) inches and a minimum
length of thirty (30) inches. All step risers must be of uniform height (within
one half (1/2) inch of each other) with the exception of the bottom riser. All
step treads must be level with a tolerance for step slope of one half (1/2)
inch. When radial steps are to be constructed, the minimum standards are shown
in Figures 1, 2 and 3 as follows. All steps shall be non-slip and constructed
in the shallow end of the pool only. Permanent black or dark colored edge
stripes such as tile must mark steps. The edge stripe must be a minimum of two
(2) inches wide, must be provided the entire length of each step, must be
non-slip in texture, and must be installed on the run of each step so as to be
clearly visible by patrons upon entering the pool. The step edge stripe must
start within one (1) inch from the edge of the step.
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(c)
Handrails - Where steps are used, a minimum of one (1) handrail must be
installed. All handrails must be securely anchored, extend over and anchor into
the bottom step, and be easily accessible for exiting the pool. No portion of
the handrail shall be closer than three (3) feet from any other handrail,
unless Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements apply. No figure four
type handrails may be installed except on fiberglass pools and Type "C" pools.
Where the average step length, as measured from the front edge of the middle
step, is over ten (10) feet in width there shall be one (1) additional handrail
for every average ten (10) feet of step width or major fraction thereof and
they shall be evenly spaced. Handrails must be of the removable type. Handrails
shall be designed so as to be secured tightly in place when the pool is in
operation unless they are removed for certain aquatic events.
(d) Tanning Ledges - When tanning ledges are
provided, the maximum water depth shall be twelve (12) inches. If the distance
from the tanning ledge to the coping exceeds eleven (11) inches, then a single
step and handrail must be provided.
36. Construction Variance. When a pool
contractor desires to use a construction procedure inconsistent with the
regulations or use materials and/or equipment other than specified in these
regulations a variance may be requested from the Department. Such a request
must be submitted in writing and shall include a description of the
material(s), equipment, and/or construction procedure(s) proposed, identify the
material, equipment and/or procedure required by the regulation, and include
proof of equivalency. This request for a variance will be considered by the
Department for approval. The Department's decision on such a variance will be
final.
37. Bridges. Bridges over
the pool shall be built so that they will not introduce any contamination to
the pool water. The minimum height of the bridge shall be at least seven (7)
feet from the bottom of the pool and at least four (4) feet above the surface
of the pool. Minimum forty-two (42) inch high handrails shall be provided along
each side of the bridge. The walking surfaces shall be constructed of concrete
or nonabsorbent material having a non-slip finish. A sign must be posted at
both ends of any bridge crossing over a pool stating in all capitalized letters
"NO DIVING OR JUMPING FROM BRIDGE ALLOWED". This sign must be clearly visible
to anyone walking over the bridge.
38. Portable Kiddie Slides. Portable slides
must comply with the requirements of Section G Paragraph 1, Section G Paragraph
2, Section G Paragraph 3(a), 3(b), 3(d)(vi), 3(d)(vii), 3(e)(ii), and
3(e)(iii). Portable slides are only allowed in Type "A" and "E" pools.
(a) The distance between the slide exit and
the opposite side of the landing pool or other obstructions shall be a minimum
of fifteen (15) feet.
(b) The slide
must terminate no more than two (2) inches above the water surface and cannot
terminate on an angle.
(c) Potable
water supplies for wet slides shall be protected by proper backflow prevention
and any piping or hose shall not be a trip hazard.
(d) Portable slides must be secured when not
in use or when an attendant is not available.
(e) Where applicable or recommended by the
manufacturer, it may be necessary to secure the slide to the deck with anchor
bolts or other suitable mounting hardware.
39. Surge tank. Where surge tanks are
provided, a means to clean and maintain the tank shall be shown on the plans.
Main drains must be located in the bottom of the tank.
