(2) Skimming devices. When used in place of overflow gutters, at least one
skimming device should be provided for each 500 square feet of surface area. These
skimming devices are built into the pool walls. They should develop sufficient velocity
on the water surface to bring floating oils and wastes from the entire pool into the
skimmer. Figure 1-2 shows the location and appearance of skimming devices.
(a) Each skimmer should be provided with an easily removable and
cleanable basket or screen through which all overflow water must pass. The basket
serves to collect debris.
(b) Recessed automatic surface skimmers must comply with the
standards of a nationally recognized testing agency, such as the National Sanitation
Foundation. The agency's seal of approval on the filter fulfills this requirement.
f. Steps and Ladders. Steps or ladders should be provided at the
shallow end of the pool and on each side of the deep end.
(1) Steps and ladders should be designed so that bathers do not slip. They
should have a minimum tread of 12 inches and a maximum rise of 10 inches.
(2) Ladders should be made of corrosion-resistant material and have
nonslip treads. Handholds must be installed firmly enough to be stable and not move.
The clearance between the ladders and the pool walls should not be more than 5 inches
nor less than 3 inches.
(3) If the pool has steps or step holes, they should be readily cleanable and
arranged to drain into the pool to prevent dirt accumulation. Step holes should have a
minimum tread of 5 inches and a minimum width of 14 inches.
(4) When steps, step holes, or ladders are located within the pool, a
handrail must be provided. The handrail should be at the top of the steps, step holes, or
ladders and extend over the edge of the pool deck.
(5) Platform or diving board steps should be of corrosion-resistant material,
easily cleanable, and have a nonslip design. Handrails should be provided for all steps
and ladders leading to diving boards that are more than 1 meter above the water.
Platforms and diving boards over 1 meter high should be protected with guardrails.
g. Decks and Surrounding Areas. The pool deck should be at least 5 feet
wide, have a nonslip surface and completely surround the pool. The area should be
completely fenced in and have the entrance and exit through the bathhouse. The deck
and neighboring areas should be designed to keep surface drainage out of the pool.
MD0166
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