Swimming Pool Safety

As horrible and sad as it is, every once in a while we all hear about a child that drowned in a swimming pool.  More than likely, if the proper protections were in place, the tragedy would have been avoided.  So, the purpose of this article is to address some of the components of swimming pool safety according to New York State rules and is intended to provide the broad strokes pertaining to swimming pool safety.

Please don’t rely on this article as a comprehensive document covering all of the rules and regulations associated with swimming pools.  Much more detail is available at this link and many others on the Internet https://www.dos.ny.gov/DCEA/pdf/PoolsumUC0708.pdf  Please keep in mind that some municipalities have stricter rules so it’s important to check with the authorities to make sure you are in compliance with all local safety rules in effect.  By the way, there is no “grandfathering” for an older swimming pool.  All pools must meet current code.

Here’s the big picture: A proper barrier and gates around the pool, proper alarms, proper electrical safety and anti-entrapment devices inside the pool.

What is considered a swimming pool?  Anything deeper than 24 inches, including hot tubs and spas as well as above ground and inground pools.

• There must be a barrier completely surrounding the pool at least 4 feet high with self-latching, self-closing gates with child rated locks. The barrier can enclose a larger area than the pool itself.
• If the house is part of the barrier, there are rules for automatic alarms on doors and windows which are intended to alert people when the doors or windows are opened. There should also be an alarm capable of detecting a child getting into the pool and sounding an alarm.
• Most swimming pools have suction ports capable of entrapping a child below the surface of the water. These suction ports should be equipped with an anti-entrapment cover which eliminates the hazard.
• All the electrical components in and around the pool must meet strict requirements for safety and should be installed by a licensed and qualified electrician.

For more related information click on this link: https://safeharborinspections.com/