South Carolina Code of Regulations
Chapter 61 - DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
Subchapter 61-51 - Public Swimming Pools
Section 61-51.K - POOL CLOSURES AND ENFORCEMENT

Universal Citation: SC Code Regs 61-51.K

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 9, September 27, 2024

1. Closure of Public Swimming Pools.

(a) Public Swimming Pools are to be closed immediately by the owner or his/her designated agent under the following conditions:
(i) When a public pool has not been issued a valid annual operating permit from the Department.

(ii) When the required number of lifeguards are not on duty at Type "A" and Type "E" pools or Type "B" pools choosing to use certified lifeguards in lieu of the required "No Lifeguard on Duty" signs.

(iii) When any pool is cloudy such that the main drains are not visible and/or the number of openings in the main drain cannot be counted.

(iv) When any item of life saving equipment is missing, defective or not readily accessible in the pool area.

(v) When the telephone/emergency notification device is missing, defective, or not accessible.

(vi) When an imminent safety hazard exists that poses a threat of injury or illness to bathers.

(vii) When the free residual chlorine or equivalent halogen reading is less than 1.0 parts per million (ppm) or greater than 8.0 parts per million (ppm).

(viii) When the pH is less than 7.0 or greater than 7.8.

(ix) When the disinfection, recirculation, automated control system used to adjust water chemistry, or filtration system is not fully operational.

(x) When the pool log is not available or not properly maintained.

(xi) When fecal coliform is present in the pool water.

(xii) When the temperature of any type pool exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

(xiii) When "Pool Rules", "No Diving", spa "Caution", "No Lifeguard on Duty", or "Pool Operator" signs are not posted in accordance with R.61-51.C.28(a) through (f).

(xiv) When time limits specified by the Department have been exceeded for the correction, repair, or replacement of defective, missing, or unauthorized equipment.

(xv) When the facility fails to retain or produce proof of the services of a properly credentialed pool operator.

(xvi) When the existing pool perimeter fencing and/or entrance gate or door do not meet the requirements of R.61-51.C(8).

(b) Where the owner or designated agent fails to close, or is not available to close the swimming pool under any of the above circumstances, the Department shall close the swimming pool and post "No Swimming" signs.

(c) In every case of pool closure, one or more "No Swimming" signs shall be posted conspicuously around or inside the affected pool enclosure. The owner or designated agent shall require all swimmers to leave the pool water. When closed by the owner at Department request, the swimming pool may be reopened after the noted deficiencies have been corrected, unless Department reinspection is required. When the owner fails to comply with the Department's request for closure, the Department will post "No Swimming" signs and the facility may not reopen until a satisfactory Department reinspection occurs.

2. Automatic Controllers. Automatic chemical feeders may be required for installation on those swimming pools with a record of improper water chemistry.

3. Penalties and Enforcement. Penalties may be imposed and enforcement procedures shall be carried out by the Department in accordance with 1976 S.C. Code Ann. Sections 44-55-2370 and 44-55-2380.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. South Carolina may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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