Part 6. Swimming Pool Inspections and Surveys.
1.18. SWIMMING POOL INSPECTIONS
a. General. The routine inspection of swimming pools is basically an inventory
of operations and maintenance procedures carried out at the pool. This inspection is
not intended to evaluate the soundness of original or remodeled construction features.
Detecting structural and equipment defects, which exist because of poor operation and
maintenance, are, however, important goals of the inspection. Structural alterations due
to changes in normal pool load or operation are also matters of concern in the routine
inspection.
b. Inspection Policies.
(1) Frequency of inspection. TB MED 575 recommends that swimming
pools be visited twice a week by preventive medicine personnel. If this is not possible,
a minimum frequency of one visit every two weeks during the swimming season should
be planned for outdoor pools. Indoor pools which are used all year and which do not
have the heavy loading problem of outdoor pools might be inspected on a less frequent
basis. These suggested intervals are for the average pool and less frequent or more
frequent inspections might be in order for the unusual pool.
(2) Time of inspection. Inspections at times of least use and maximum use
are most valuable. Operational problems, such as difficulty in maintaining disinfectant
residuals, will necessitate review during high loading, while problems of backwashing
procedure might be helped by inspection during low loading.
(3) Inspection routine. The most efficient technique is one that will permit a
thorough inspection in the least possible time without retracing steps. One suggested
technique is to review the service buildings first, proceed to the pool area and pool tank,
and finish with an inspection of the equipment room or rooms. The pool manager or
equipment operator should accompany you as you tour the facilities. This will increase
the effectiveness of the inspection.
c. Conducting the Inspection. As you conduct the inspection, you will check
that the standards presented in this lesson are being followed. This paragraph will not
repeat each standard but instead will give general guidelines for inspecting pool areas.
(1) Service buildings. In this area, you will basically inspect dressing rooms,
toilet rooms, shower rooms, and swimmer supervision. Typical items include checking
showerheads for water temperature and flow.
(2) Pool and pool area. The problems of pool surroundings, spectator
control, pool structure, pool fittings, and water quality will be of major importance.
Testing disinfection level and pH will be a routine procedure. See paragraphs 1-20 and
1-21 for pH and chlorine testing procedures. Other chemical tests of the pool water will
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