Swimming Pool - University of Missouri



Pool Manual

Environmental Health & Safety

University of Missouri-Columbia

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January 4, 2006

Table of Contents

Standard for Swimming Pool Operation

Page

1. Introduction 4

1.1 Pool

1.2 Lifesaving Equipment

1.3 Abbreviations

1.4 Roles and Responsibilities

2. Training 6

2.1 Operator

2. Lifeguards

3. Pool Staff

4. First Aid

2.5 Chemicals/PPE

3.0 Water Maintenance 6

3.1 Disinfection

2. pH /Alkalinity/Calcium Hardness

3. Turbidity

4. Bacteriological Quality

5. Algal Control

6. Superchlorination/Superoxidation

4. Routine Operations 7

1. Pool Cleaning

2. Toilet/Shower/Locker Facilities

3. Water Analysis

4. Water Balance

5. Mechanical System

6. Recirculation System

7. Water Level

8. Drain Covers

9. Other Equipment

10. Chemicals

11. Pool Inspection

5. Equipment Maintenance 8

1. Equipment Operation

2. Lint/Hair Skimmers

3. Equipment Log

4. Equipment Manuals

6. Patrons, Spectators and Staff 9

1. Patrons

2. Bather Load Limit

3. Spectators

4. Glass Containers

5. Staff

7. Pool Emergency Action Plan 9

1. Accidental Fecal Release

2. Accidental Vomit Release

3. Thunder/Lightning

4. Bloodborne Event

5. Dead Animals

8. Safety 11

1. Signage

2. Personal Protective Equipment

3. Material Safety Data Sheets

4. Depth Markings

5. Fencing

6. Electrical

9. Record Keeping 11

9.1 Daily Log

9.2 First Aid Log

9.3 MSDS File

9.4 Maintenance Log

9.5 Training Log

10. References/Links 12

Appendices 13

Standards for Swimming Pool Operations

1. Introduction

The University of Missouri – Columbia maintains a number of different types of swimming pools from recreational pools to hospital therapy pools to competition pools. It is necessary to maintain these pools in a proactive manner so that accidents and swimming pool related illnesses may be eliminated for the patrons, guests and staff. It is incumbent upon the pool operator to develop a pool guide for each of the pools under their direction. This manual is intended to assist each of the operators in developing an individualized pool guide specific to their pool. Appendix E is designed to assist the pool operator in this endeavor.

1. A pool is an artificial basin containing water for the purpose of immersion of people for recreation or therapy. There are six classes of pools, depending on their use and location.

1. Class A: Intended for use in competitive swimming; may also be used for recreational swimming.

2. Class B: A public pool intended to serve the general public.

3. Class C: A semi-public pool intended for use of residents of an apartment, dorm, condominium, etc.

4. Class D: A special purpose pool that utilizes wave/surf action, rivers, vortex, etc.

5. Class E: A therapy pool in which the water temperature is maintained above 86˚F (30˚C), but less than 104˚F (40˚C), and used for physical therapy. Hot tubs (spas) are also included in this classification. Not to be used by individuals with high blood pressure or heart conditions without the express consent of a physician.

6. Class F: A wading pool with shallow water only. Also known as a kiddie pool.

1.2 Lifesaving Equipment is equipment kept on hand at each pool to aid in extracting a person from a pool who is having difficulty in maintaining their ability to reach the side of a pool or is the victim of an accident in the pool or pool area. This equipment will include as a minimum: backboard, blanket, reach pole, torpedoes (rescue tubes) for each lifeguard on duty, first aid kit.

1.3 Abbreviations:

1.3.1 AFR – Accidental Fecal Release or the event of someone defecating in the water.

1.3.2 CPI – Certified Pool Inspector is a certified pool operator who has passed a national exam in pool inspection.

1.3.3 CPO® – Certified Pool Operator is a person nationally certified in all areas of pool management.

1.3.4 EHS – Department of Environmental Health & Safety at the University of Missouri- Columbia.

1.3.5 NSPF – National Swimming Pool Foundation is the certifying agency for the CPO/CPI ranking.

1.3.6 MSDS – Material Safety Data Sheet, provides important information on all chemicals and cleaning products.

1.3.7 PPE – Personal Protective Equipment used to protect all areas of the body from possible contact or inhalation of contaminating products.

1.3.8 RU – Registered User, a person who has accountability for the safe use of chemicals in a particular area. This person has a responsibility over chemical workers in their area.

1.3.9 WRI – Water Related Illness is a bacterial infection from contact with contaminated water.

1.4 Roles and Responsibilities

1.4.1 Department Head, Director, Assistant Director shall be familiar with the Pool Manual, provide guidance and assure compliance with all regulations. They shall insure that the Pool Operator is properly trained and certified.

1.4.2 Pool Operator – CPO® certified. This person is responsible for the operation of the pool and compliance with all regulations. They shall assure that their staff is fully trained (see 2.0). They shall prepare an individualized pool guide and emergency guide for their pool.

1.4.3 Pool Staff – Depending on position, recommended CPO® certified at the discretion of the pool operator. They shall be trained as outlined in 2.0 below. They are to inform their supervisor of any unsafe conditions for remediation.

1.4.4 EHS – Shall develop guidance, provide training, monitor for compliance and provide consultative assistance.

2. Training

Training of all pool staff in the operation of the various pool areas is essential for the safe operation of all campus pools.

1. Pool Operator- required to be certified in pool operations (i.e. CPO® from NSPF).

2. Lifeguards need to be currently certified as such by a recognized agency such as the American Red Cross, YMCA or the Boy Scouts of America. While on lifeguard duty, the lifeguard may have no other concurrent duties.

3. Pool Staff – All persons working in the pool facility need to have a basic understanding of pool operations, water testing and chemicals. Depending on their responsibility, they may need the CPO® or equivalent rating as well.

4. All personnel shall be currently certified in basic first aid/CPR and have current bloodborne pathogens training. This training can be provided by EHS

2.5 Chemical use must follow all guidelines of the campus hazardous materials management programs. Chemical/PPE Training is to be provided to all staff who will be handling chemicals in any way. This training will be provided by EHS. These staff must be listed as workers under the RU in charge of the location.

3. Water Maintenance

1. Disinfection – Pool water shall be automatically and continuously disinfected. All disinfecting materials and methods shall be used only by properly trained staff. They will not create a nuisance to patrons or staff and must be compatible with all other chemicals used. The chemicals are to provide an effective disinfection of bacteria. Improper disinfection levels may lead to pool closure.

1. Chlorine and bromine based disinfectants are the main chemicals used on campus. Any other disinfection chemicals are to be approved prior to use by EHS.

2. Cyanuric acid is not a disinfectant. It is for outdoor pool use only as a stabilizer to prevent chlorine breakdown due to sunlight. Levels should not exceed 80 ppm (Table 1).

3. Special purpose pools such as hot tubs and therapy pools which are heated to a higher temperature need more stringent monitoring to maintain proper levels of disinfection as the higher operating temperatures provide a better medium for bacterial growth. (See also 7.1 and 7.2)

2. pH/Alkalinity/Calcium Hardness need to be maintained in the ideal range (see appendix C or D) to ensure proper pool maintenance by keeping pool conditions in a range to prevent caustic or acidic conditions for equipment and bathers. (See 4.4)

3. Turbidity – Water clarity will be maintained such that the cover plate on the bottom of the pool shall be clearly visible while standing on the pool edge. Cloudy conditions must be corrected immediately.

4. Bacteriological quality can be maintained by use of disinfection. If no disinfection is present, bacteria can grow and cause staff and patrons to become ill or experience ear infections. A monthly bacteriological test will be performed by EHS.

5. Algal Control – the use of an algaecide, especially in outdoor pools, can be a regular part of maintenance. Although algae is not necessarily hazardous to people, it can be a nuisance in and around the pool. A weekly wall cleaning will also assist in algal control.

6. Superchlorination/Superoxidation of pools must be done when the pool is closed by trained personnel. The pool may re-open when the disinfection levels have been brought back into the 2.0 ppm to 5.0 ppm range (see appendix C or D).

4.0 Routine Operations

The pool operator or their designee shall be responsible for maintaining the various pool areas according to their pool guide. The following elements should be included:

1. Pools shall be cleaned as necessary to provide a healthy swimming environment. This will include the walk area around the pool which must be kept clean and sanitized.

2. All toilet, shower and locker facilities shall be kept in a sanitary condition at all times. Disinfection of floors and fixtures will be done daily to prevent infections and illness.

3. Water analysis shall be maintained according Appendix C and D to assure healthful water. These results shall be recorded in the pool log (see 9.1).

4. Water balance, a condition in which dissolved minerals prevent the water from acting as an acid or caustic, will be calculated monthly to prevent undue stress on equipment and plumbing as well as bathers.

5. Mechanical rooms and systems shall be monitored for proper maintenance and efficiency. These rooms shall be kept free of clutter.

6. Recirculation system shall be monitored for proper maintenance and efficiency.

7. Water levels are to be constantly maintained for optimum pool health and safety.

8. Drain covers shall be in good repair with no cracks or breakage. All drain covers shall be of the anti-entrapment type. Replace broken or cracked drain covers with anti-entrapment covers.

9. Other equipment such as first aid kits, lifesaving equipment, etc. are to be maintained in peak operating condition.

10. Chemicals are to be properly stored, with appropriate secondary containment if required, in a defined storage room and only taken out for use. A chemical containers must be returned to storage immediately after use

11. Pool inspection will be performed by EHS on a monthly basis. Results will be recorded on an inspection form and presented to the pool operator and/or designated member of the staff. Any problems will be discussed at that time. See Appendix A and B for a sample inspection form.

5.0 Equipment Maintenance

5.1 All filtration and circulation equipment shall be maintained in peak operating condition according to manufacturer’s specifications.

5.2 All lint/hair strainers and skimmers shall be kept clean.

5.3 A log of equipment maintenance shall be kept (see 9.4). Entries are to include date, name of equipment, maintenance performed and any comments necessary.

5.4 All equipment manuals are to be readily available for all pool staff, contractors and the sanitarian (or designee).

6.0 Patrons, Spectators and Pool Staff

6.1 Patrons are considered anyone other than pool staff. Signage should be posted in the locker rooms to address the following:

6.1.1 Patrons need to be free of communicable disease and open wounds to prevent contamination of the pool water.

6.1.2 All patrons need to shower before entry into the pool area.

6.1.3 All patrons need to wear a bathing suit. Cutoffs, etc. will not be allowed in university pools.

6.2 The pool bather load limit is to be calculated and posted for each pool. This limit is to be strictly enforced.

6.3 Spectators for events are to be limited to the bleachers. Only coaches, pool staff and therapists will be allowed to be pool side. Food and drink in the bleachers will be allowed at the discretion of the pool operator. For pools with no bleacher section, events such as swim lessons, therapy, etc. will be at the discretion of the pool operator.

6.4 No glass containers of any kind shall be allowed in the immediate pool areas (pools and decks) or the bleacher sections.

6.5 Pool staff shall be subjected to the same rules as patrons.

7.0 Emergency Action Plan

An pool emergency action plan will be maintained in addition to the building emergency action plan to cover possible problems. To be included shall be the following:

7.1 Accidental Fecal Release – An AFR constitutes a possible major influx of bacterial and protozoan organisms into the pool water which can then lead to bather contamination and a water related illness (WRI). Whenever there is an accidental fecal release, the pool is to be immediately closed. Once all of the bathers have exited the pool, the fecal material is to be removed, if possible, with a scoop or net making sure to keep it intact as much as possible. The scoop/net is to be decontaminated after use.

In the case of solid fecal material, the pool is to be maintained at the normal chlorine level ( 2.0 – 5.0 ppm (bromine level 4.0 – 6.0 ppm) for a 30 minute period with a pH of 7.2 – 7.8 and constant filtration. Following this proceedure the pool may be re-opened. Be sure to record date, time and action taken in the pool log (see 9.1).

In the case of a diarrheal episode, the chlorine level is to be increased to 20 ppm (bromine level increased to 40 ppm) and maintained at this level with filtration for an 8 hour period. Maintain the pH at 7.2 – 7.8. After the 8-hour treatment, backwash the filter and discharge the effluent to the sanitary sewer, not to the pool. Reestablish the disinfectant level to 2.0 – 5.0 ppm for chlorine or 4.0 – 6.0 ppm for bromine. The pool may now be re-opened. Record the date, time and response in the pool log (see 9.1).

7.2 Accidental Vomit Release – Should anyone vomit into the pool, the pool must be immediately closed. Once all people are out of the pool, maintain the pool for 30 minutes at a chlorine level of 2.0 – 5.0 ppm (bromine level of 4.0 – 6.0) at a pH of 7.2 – 7.8, keeping all filtration operating. Any large pieces of vomitus must be removed from the pool by use of a scoop or mesh devise while trying to keep it intact. After 30 minutes treatment time the pool may be re-opened. Record the date, time and response in the pool log (see 9.1).

7.3 Thunder and lightning events will close down any outdoor pool for a 30 minute period. The pool will remain closed until 30 minutes has elapsed from the time of the last clap of thunder or flash of lightning. Any subsequent thunder or lightning signals another 30 minute closing period. Staff needs to be sure all patrons and staff are moved to a safe location during this event.

7.4 An event that has bloodshed in the pool itself does not require the closing of the pool as keeping the proper disinfection levels will negate any problems. Closing for a 5 or 10 minute period may be done for the benefit of the patrons to feel secure. If there is bloodshed on the pool deck (or anywhere else) it will be necessary to treat the area and clean-up properly (see 2.4).

7.5 Dead animals and insects within a pool or pool area need to be dealt with before opening a pool for the day. Animals/insects in the pool need to be removed and discarded. Dead animals on the pool deck need to be discarded and the area must be disinfected.

8. Safety

8.1 Safety signs such as ‘No Lifeguard on Duty’ need to be posted where everyone can see them before entry into the pool area. Pool entry information is to be posted in the locker rooms. Other signs for rules, etc. need to be prominently posted. The size of the sign and print will be such that the sign can be clearly read from a distance of six feet.

8.2 Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for working with chemicals. This may include possible skin, face and/or respiratory protection. PPE selection shall be at the discretion of the RU in consultation with EHS. Respirators are to be fit tested by EHS on a yearly basis. Only properly trained personnel will be allowed to work with chemicals.

8.3 MSDSs shall be readily available for all chemicals used in the pool areas including pool chemicals and cleaning products.

8.4 Depth markings for pools must be placed on the pool side and deck near the pool edge in numbers/letters at least four inches high. They must be located on all four sides of the pool. At a minimum, they must be placed at the shallow end, the deep end and where the floor of the pool begins to sharply descend into the deep water, if applicable.

8.5 Fencing for all outdoor pools needs to be a minimum of four feet in height above grade level. The bottom of the fence can be no higher than four inches off the ground. Any openings, excluding entrances/exits, in the fence can be no larger than four inches. The fence must not be easy to scale.

8.6 All electrical outlets around a swimming pool must be of the ground fault circuit interrupting type. No electrical cords will be allowed to contact the pool water. Caution needs to be exercised with electrical cords on the pool deck.

9. Record Keeping

All logs and records need to be available for inspection by the sanitarian (or designee).

9.1 Pool Log - A daily log of all water testing results shall be kept for each pool. Minimum data to include will be pool identification, date, results of all water testing and time, any chemicals added, the amount added and time. Any actions for emergencies such as an AFR are to be included with what the action was, including date and time.

9.2 A First Aid Log is recommended to account for each incident. EHS needs to be notified for all accidents. This can be accomplished by e-mail to the sanitarian.

9.3 MSDSs need to be available (see 8.3).

9.4 An Equipment Maintenance Log shall be kept to document all maintenance of all equipment.

9.5 A Training Log is recommended to keep all staff training current.

10.0 References/Links

Columbia, MO; Swimming Pool Ordinance and Guide

Iowa Pool Code; Revised May 2005.

Johnson County, Kansas Pool Guide

Missouri CSR 20-3.050 E

National Swimming Pool Foundation; Certified Pool – Spa Operator Handbook, 2005 Edition

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; Guidelines for Entrapment Hazards: Making Pools and Spas Safer (March 2005).

Appendix A

Pool Inspection Form – Front

Environmental Health & Safety

University of Missouri – Columbia

Research Park

Columbia MO 65211

Phone: 573-882-7018/Fax: 573/882-7940

Pool Inspection

Swimming Pool ___ Therapy Pool ___ Spa ___

Date: _____________ Contact: __________________________________

Name/Location:____________________________________________________

POOL AREA: S U N/A LOCKER ROOM: S U N/A

1. Pool Markings ___ ___ ___ 15. Lighting ___ ___ ___

2. Proper Signage ___ ___ ___ 16. Dressing Room ___ ___ ___

3. Steps/Ladders ___ ___ ___ 17. Shower Room ___ ___ ___

4. Lighting ___ ___ ___ 18. Lavatories ___ ___ ___

5. Drain Cover ___ ___ ___ 19. Floors ___ ___ ___

6. Walk Area (Deck) ___ ___ ___ 20. Signage/Instructions ___ ___ ___

7. Diving Board(s) ___ ___ ___

8. Floating Markers ___ ___ ___

9. Life Saving Equip. ___ ___ ___ OTHER: S U N/A

10. First Aid Kit ___ ___ ___ 21. Records Check ___ ___ ___

11. Water Clarity ___ ___ ___ 22. Chemical Storage ___ ___ ___

12. Skimmer/Gutter ___ ___ ___ 23. Filter System ___ ___ ___

13. Hair/Lint Catcher ___ ___ ___ 24. Disinfecting System ___ ___ ___

14. Supervision ___ ___ ___ 25. Vacuum System ___ ___ ___

CURRENT READINGS: pH: ___ Cl-: ___ppm Turbidity: ___ Temp: ___(F

(7.2-7.8) (2.0-5.0)

Tot Alk___ppm Ca++ Hardness___ppm Br-___ppm Bacteriological___

PRIMARY DISINFECTING TYPE: COMMENTS:

Sodium Dichloro-s-triazinetrione ___ __________________________________

Trichloro-s-triazinetrione ___ __________________________________

Sodium Hypochlorite ___ __________________________________

Calcium Hypochlorite ___ __________________________________

Lithium Hypochlorite ___ __________________________________

Chlorine Gas ___ __________________________________

Bromine ___ __________________________________

Other: ____________________ __________________________________

Inspector/Title: Richard M. Fancher, CPO/Sanitarian

Appendix B

Pool Inspection Form – Back

Explanation of Numbered Items

1. Pool depths are to be marked with clearly visible lettering/numbering at least 4 inches high on deck and pool side..

2. Proper signs of instruction are to be displayed in a manner consistent with high visibility. Special conditions such as ‘No Life Guard on Duty” “Children must have adult supervision” are to be identified and posted at all entrances to the pool.

3. All steps and ladders shall be in good repair and firmly attached to the pool.

4. Lighting in the pool area, locker rooms and lavatories shall be sufficient for personal safety and security. Lights shall be changed out as necessary.

5. Drain cover shall be not be broken, damaged or missing. Non-entrapment covers are encouraged.

6. Deck areas shall be of a non-slippery composition and wide enough to accommodate all patrons and guests using the pool. This also includes pool furniture. Deck will be kept in good repair at all times.

7. Diving boards shall be in good repair and have a sufficient depth and surface area for swimmer/diver safety.

8. Floating markers shall be kept in good repair. And indicate where the depth begins to exceed 5 foot.

9. All life saving equipment shall be in good repair and readily available for use. At a minimum, there shall be a life ring with line and a Sheperd’s Crook/reaching pool with a minimum length of one-half the pool width.

10. A standard first aid kit shall be available. First aid supplies shall be maintained.

11. Water clarity shall be as such as to clearly see drain cover at the bottom of the pool.

12. Water level maintained for continuous skimming.

13. Hair/lint catcher cleaned as necessary

14. Supervision of pool to be under certified operator.

15. See # 4.

16. Dressing rooms shall be kept in a clean, sanitary condition and in good repair.

17. The shower room shall be cleaned on a daily basis.

18. The bathrooms shall be kept in a clean, sanitary condition with a supply of toilet paper, soap and paper towels for patrons. A waste receptacle shall be in a usable condition. A covered used sanitary napkin receptacle shall be maintained in the women’s room.

19. All floors shall be kept clean and in good repair.

20. Signage/instructions shall be used for the knowledge of patrons. Defaced/unreadable signs shall be replaced.

21. A record of all pool chemistry and maintenance will be kept on a daily basis..

22. All chemicals shall be stored in a manner consistent with EPA and EHS guidelines.

23. Filter system shall have guages for influent and effluent.

24. Disinfecting system identified as to chlorine, bromine or other disinfectant and be in good working order.

25. Vacuum System employed as needed to keep pool in pristine condition.

Appendix C

Water Chemistry/Testing Requirements for Swimming Pools

|Chemical |Minimum |Ideal |Maximum |Testing |

|Parameter | |Range | |Interval |

|Free | | | |Opening |

|Available |1.0 ppm |2.0 ppm |5.0 ppm |then every |

|Chlorine | | | |4 hours |

| | | | |Opening |

|Bromine |2.0 ppm |4.0 ppm |10.0 ppm |then every |

| | | | |4 hours |

| | | | |Opening |

|pH |7.2 |7.5 |7.8 |then every |

| | | | |4 hours |

|Combined | | | | |

|Chlorine |- |0 |- |Weekly |

|Total | | | | |

|Alkalinity |- |80 – 120 |- |Weekly |

| | |ppm | | |

|Calcium | | | | |

|Hardness |- |200 – 400 |- |Weekly |

| | |ppm | | |

|Cyanuric | | | | |

|Acid |- |- |80 ppm |Weekly |

Appendix D

Water Chemistry/Testing Requirements for Therapy Pools and Hot Tubs.

|Chemical |Minimum |Ideal |Maximum |Testing |

|Parameter | |Range | |Interval |

|Free | | | |Opening |

|Available |2.0 ppm |3.5 ppm |8.0 ppm |then every |

|Chlorine | | | |2 hours |

| | | | |Opening |

|Bromine |4.0 ppm |5.0 ppm |18.0 ppm |then every |

| | | | |2 hours |

| | | | |Opening |

|pH |7.2 |7.4 – 7.6 |7.8 |then every |

| | | | |2 hours |

|Combined | | | |Once |

|Chlorine |- |0 |- |A |

| | | | |day |

|Total | | | | |

|Alkalinity |- |80 – 120 |- |Weekly |

| | |ppm | | |

|Calcium | | | | |

|Hardness |- |150 – 250 |- |Weekly |

| | |ppm | | |

| | | | | |

|Temperature |86˚F |95˚F |104˚F |Daily |

| |(30˚C) |(35˚C) |(40˚C) | |

Appendix E

Template for Developing Individual Pool Guide:

This template is intended to assist each pool operator to develop a usable pool guide. Each pool guide will be individualized and may not contain all the information such as additional pool personnel. A copy of this Pool Manual is to be appended to the pool guide.

Pool Name

Location

Hours of Operation

Days of the week

RU/Person in Charge (include RU number): Name/Certifications

Campus Address

Phone/Fax/E-mail

Additional Pool Personnel: Name/Certifications Campus Address

Phone/Fax/E-mail

Pool Classification and Clientele (see 1.1)

Safety Issues/Signage/PPE (see 2.0, 6.1, 8.0)

Pool Emergency Action Plan (see 7.0)

Monitoring Schedule

Chemicals:

• Disinfectant, manufacturer, application information

• Others Chemicals: Name, manufacturer, application information

• MSDS location

Water Maintenance Schedule (see 3.0, 4.0)

Equipment Maintenance Schedule (see 5.0)

Record Keeping (see 9.0)

Pool Diagram showing location of first aid, lifesaving equipment, chemical storage, mechanical room, etc.

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