ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

American National Standard for

Public Swimming Pools
Approved August 28, 2013
 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Standard for
Public Swimming Pools

SECRETARIAT:

Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

2111 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22314
703 838-0083
www.APSP.org

Approved August 28, 2013

American National Standards Institute
American National Standard
Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the requirements for due process, consensus, and other
criteria for approval have been met by the standard developer. Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of
Standards Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly and materially affected interests. Substantial agreement means
much more than a simple majority, but not necessarily unanimity.
Consensus requires that all views and objections be considered and that a concerted effort be made toward their resolution. The use of
American National Standards is completely voluntary; their existence does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether he has approved
this standard or not, from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the
standards.
The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards and will in no circumstances give an interpretation of any
American National Standard. Moreover, no person shall have the right or authority to issue an interpretation of an American National
Standard in the name of the American National Standards Institute. Requests for interpretations should be addressed to the secretariat
or sponsor whose name appears on the title page of this standard.
NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards
Institute require that action be taken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard.

Important Notice about this Document

This voluntary standard has been developed under the published procedures of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
The ANSI process brings together volunteers representing varied viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus.
APSP does not write the standards. Rather, APSP facilitates a forum for its members, and others interested in pool and spa design and
safety, to develop standards through the consensus procedures of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). While the APSP
administers the process and establishes rules to promote fairness in the development of consensus, it does not independently test,
evaluate, or verify the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained in its codes and standards.
In issuing and making this document available, the APSP is not undertaking to render professional or other services for or on behalf of
any person or entity. Nor is the APSP undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to someone else. The APSP disclaims
liability for any personal injury, property, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential, or
compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication of, use of, or reliance on this document.
The APSP has no power, nor does it undertake, to police or enforce compliance with the contents of this document. The APSP does not
list, certify, test, or inspect products, designs, or installations for compliance with this document. Any certification or other statement of
compliance with the requirements of this document shall not be attributable to the APSP. Any certification of products stating compliance
with requirements of this document is the sole responsibility of the certifier or maker of the statement. The APSP, its members, and those
participating in its activities do not accept any liability resulting from compliance or noncompliance with the provisions given herein, for
any restrictions imposed on materials, or for the accuracy and completeness of the text.
Anyone using this document should rely on his or her own independent judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent
professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstance. It is assumed and intended that spa users will
exercise appropriate personal judgment and responsibility and that public spa owners and operators will create and enforce rules of
behavior and warnings appropriate for their facility.

Copyright Notice
Copyright ©2014 by The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, 2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314-4695. Printed in the United States
of America. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, transcribed or transmitted, in any form or by any
means or method, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without advance written permission from the publisher: The Association of
Pool & Spa Professionals, 2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314-4695.

“APSP,” “The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals,” and the APSP logo are trademarks of The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals.

©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals ii

Foreword
This Foreword is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

The ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014, Standard for Public Swimming Pools was approved by ANSI on August 28, 2013,
as a revision of ANSI/APSP-1 2003, Standard for Public Swimming Pools.
The objective of this voluntary standard is to provide recommended minimum guidelines for the design, equipment,
operation, and installation of new construction and renovation of public pools for builders, installers, and pool
operators. It also is intended to assist government and other regulatory bodies in the development, promulgation,
and enforcement of public pool criteria.
The design requirements and construction practices in this standard are based upon sound engineering principles,
research and field experience that, when applied properly, contribute to the delivery and installation of a safe
product.
The words “safe” and “safety” are not absolutes. While the goal of this standard is to design and construct a safe,
enjoyable product, it is recognized that risk factors cannot, as a practical matter, be reduced to zero in any human
activity. This standard does not replace good judgment and personal responsibility. In permitting use of the pool,
spa, swim spa or portable spa by others, owners must consider the skill, attitude, training and experience of the
expected user.
As with any product, the specific recommendations for installation and use provided by the manufacturer should
be carefully observed.
This standard was prepared by the APSP-1 Writing Committee of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
(APSP) in accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Essential Requirements: Due process
requirements for American National Standards.
Consensus approval was achieved by a ballot of the balanced APSP Standards Consensus Committee and through
an ANSI Public Review process. The ANSI Public Review provided an opportunity for additional input from indus-
try, academia, regulatory agencies, safety experts, state code and health officials, and the public at large.
Suggestions for improvement of this standard should be sent to the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals,
2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314.

This standard is published in partnership with the International Code Council (ICC). ICC develops and publishes the International
Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), which are adopted as the basis for the building codes used in most
states and jurisdictions within the United States. Additionally, APSP and ICC have collaborated to develop the first comprehensive
model swimming pool and spa code, known as the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. This landmark document incorporates
and references material from ANSI/APSP standards and ICC’s model codes, to create a stand-alone code that is consistent with codes
and standards from both organizations.
These codes and standards are the result of a joint effort between ICC and APSP as a service to both the swimming pool and spa
community, and building code professionals. It is the hope of both organizations that they will lead to enhanced safety for pool and
spa users around the world.

iii ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Organizations Represented
Consensus approval in accordance with ANSI procedures was
achieved by ballot of the following APSP Standards Consensus
Committee. Inclusion in this list does not necessarily imply that
the organization concurred with the submittal of the proposed
standard to ANSI.
Producers
All American Custom Pools & Spas, Inc. . . . John Romano
Custom Pools, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Heusser
Gary Pools, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leif Zars
Hayward Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John O’Hare
HornerXpress South Florida. . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Kent
Master Spas Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nathan Coelho
Rosebrook Carefree Pools, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . John Bently
Trilogy Pools Div. of Viking Pools LCC. . . . . . Ted Baudendistel
S.R. Smith, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bill Svendsen
Van Kirk & Sons, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Don Cesarone
General Interest
American Hotel & Lodging Association. . . . . Tony Mendez
American Red Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connie Harvey
Chesapeake Aquatic Consultants, LLC. . . . . Frank Goldstein
Con-Serv Associates Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wally James
Conroe Independent School District, TX . . . . Louis Sam Fruia
Don Witte Consultant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Don Witte
National Environmental Health Association
(NEHA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Florence Higgins
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. . . . . . . . . . . Michael Beatty
World Waterpark Association. . . . . . . . . . . . Rick Root
YMCA of the USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Albert Tursi
Government/User
City of Martinsville, VA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kris Bridges
City of Mount Dora, FL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tom Allen
Fairfax County, VA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marc Mordue
Green Oak Charter Township . . . . . . . . . . . . Wayne Jewell
Illinois Department of Public Health. . . . . . . Justin DeWitt
International Code Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lee Clifton
New Jersey Dept. of Community Affairs
Division of Codes and Standards. . . . . . . . . Thomas Pitcherello
North Carolina Building Office
Office of State Fire Marshall. . . . . . . . . . . . . Helen DiPietro
Oregon Public Health Division . . . . . . . . . . . Stephen Keifer
Washington State Dept. of Health . . . . . . . . Gary Fraser
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Mark Eilbert *
*non-voting
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals iv
In accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
procedures, this document will be reviewed periodically. The
Association of Pool & Spa Professionals welcomes your comments
and suggestions, and continues to review all APSP standards, which
include:
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014 Standard for Public Swimming Pools
ANSI/APSP-2 1999 Standard for Public Spas
ANSI/APSP/ICC-3 2014 Standard for Permanently Installed
Residential Spas
ANSI/APSP/ICC-4 a 2013 Standard for Aboveground/Onground
Residential Swimming Pools
ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 Standard for Residential Inground
Swimming Pools
ANSI/APSP/ICC-6 2013 Standard for Residential Portable Spas
and Swim Spas
ANSI/APSP/ICC-7 2013 Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance
in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and Catch
Basins
ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2013) Model Barrier Code for Residential
Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
ANSI/APSP-9 Standard for Aquatic Recreation Facilities (in progress)
ANSI/APSP-11 2009 Standard for Water Quality in Public Pools
and Spas
ANSI/APSP/ICC-14 2011 Standard for Portable Electric Spa
Energy Efficiency
ANSI/APSP/ICC-15-a 2013 Standard for Residential Pool and Spa
Energy Efficiency
ANSI/APSP-16 2011 Suction Fittings for Use in Swimming Pools,
Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs
APSP 2013 Workmanship Standards for Swimming Pools and Spas
APSP-1 Writing Committee
United States Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Donald Leas, Chair
American Hotel & Lodging Association /
Wyndham Worldwide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tony Mendez
Anderson Poolworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dana Anderson
Chaiken Ultimate Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kyle H. Chaiken
Con-Serv Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wally James
Dynasty Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Mitchell
Illinois Department of Public Health. . . . . . . Craig Steinheimer, P.E.
Legalpools.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Derek Downey
Mill Bergen Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert Blanda
NSF International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard A. Martin
Paragon Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joseph Vassallo
Sunbelt Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert J. Morgan
Tolomato Community Development District . Lee Hovis
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission . Mark Eilbert
APSP Staff
Bernice Crenshaw, Director, Technical and Standards
Carvin DiGiovanni, Senior Director, Technical and Standards
Contents
Sections Page
American National Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Foreword. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
1 Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2 Normative References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
3 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
4 Code compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
5 General design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
6 Dimensional design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
7 Decks and deck equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
8 Circulation systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
9 Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
10 Pumps and motors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
11 Inlet and outlets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
12 Surface skimming systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
13 Electrical and illumination requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
14 Heaters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
15 Water supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
16 Waste water disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
17 Sanitizing equipment, chemical feeders and chemical
operational parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
18 Specific safety features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
19 Dressing facilities (Classes A and B only). . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
20 Visitor and spectators areas (Classes A and B only) . . . . . 15
21 Food consumption (Classes A and B only) . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
22 Operation and management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
23 Entries, exits, pool stairs, swimouts, underwater benches
and special features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
24 Signage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
v ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
Tables Page
6.2 Construction tolerances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
6.2.2 Minimum diving water envelopes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
6.8 Maximum User Load. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
7.1.6 Typical minimum drainage slopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
8.1.1 Turnover Period. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
B-1 Velocity Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-10
B-2 Maximum Flow Rates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-11
Figures
6.2.2 Construction dimensions for water envelopes for
Class B and C pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
6.3.5 Maximum allowable wall slope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
23.1.5 Minimum diving water envelope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
23.2 Pool stairs, side view. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
24.1 Example of signage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
B Velocity in different pipe sizes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-10
D Layers of Protection for a public pool. . . . . . . . . . . . A-14
E Examples of No Diving signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-15
F APSP safety brochures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-16
Appendices
A Chemical Operational Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
B Velocity Limits in APSP Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-10
C Safety Considerations and Warning Recommendations. A-12
D Layers of Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-14
E Signage Warning Against Shallow Water Diving. . . . . . . A-15
F Safety Brochures and Education Programs . . . . . . . . . . A-16
G Use of Elemental Chlorine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-17
H Suction Entrapment Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-19
I English Standard-Metric Conversion Tables. . . . . . . . . . A-20
J Sources of Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-21

Standard for Public Swimming Pools
1 Scope
1.1  Public swimming pools. This standard covers public
swimming pools to be used for swimming, bathing,
competitive activities, or recreational activities and
operated by an owner, lessee, operator, licensee,
or concessionaire, regardless of whether a fee is
charged for use.
1.1.1  Public swimming pools covered by this standard.
Public swimming pools covered by this standard
include the following:
1.1.1.1  Class A pools. Any pool intended for use for
accredited competitive aquatic events such as
Federation Internationale De Natation (FINA),
USA Swimming, USA Diving, USA Synchro-
nized Swimming, USA Water Polo, National
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National
Federation of State High School Associations
(NFHS). The use of the pool is not limited to
competitive events.)
1.1.1.2  Class B pools. Any pool, not otherwise classi-
fied, intended for public recreational use.
1.1.1.3  Class C pools. Semi-public pools. Any pool
operated solely for and in conjunction with lodgings
such as hotels, motels, apartments, condominiums.)
1.1.1.4  Class F pools. Class F pools are wading pools
and are covered within the scope of this standard
as set forth in Sections 6.9  and 8.4.2  and as noted
in other sections of the standard.
1.2  Variation in design. This standard provides specifica-
tions for the design, equipment, operation, warning
signs, installation, sanitation, new construction, and
renovation of public swimming pools. This standard
permits variations in equipment, materials, and
design to accommodate special needs and consider-
ations and advances in technology and to provide the
required quality, strength, durability, and safety for the
intended use.
1.3 Renovation. Renovation does not include ordinary
maintenance. Only those items that are renovated shall
adhere to this standard. (See Section 3 Definitions)
2 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions that,
through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this American National Standard. At the time of publi-
cation, the editions indicated were valid. All standards
are subject to revision, and parties to agreements
based on this American National Standard are encour-
aged to investigate the possibility of applying the most
recent editions of the standards indicated at right.
1 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility guidelines for
buildings and facilities; recreation facilities 1
ACI 302.1 R-04 (2004), Guide for concrete floor and slab
construction 2
ANSI/APSP-2 1999 Standard for Public Spas 3
ANSI/NSF 50 (2012), Circulation system components and related
materials for swimming pools, spas/hot tubs 4
ANSI/NSF 14 (2012), Plastics piping system components and
related materials 5
ANSI/NEMA-MG1-2007, Motors and generators 6
ANSI/APSP/ICC-7 2013 Standard for Suction Entrapment
Avoidance in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs,
and Catch Basins 7
ANSI/APSP-16 2011 Standard for Suction Fittings for Use in
Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs 8
ANSI/NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, 2014 9
ANSI Z21.56-2013/CSA 4.7-2013, Gas fired pool heaters 10
UL 1261 (2001), Standard for electric water heaters for pools
and tubs 11
UL 1995 (2011), Standard for heating and cooling equipment 12
ANSI/NFPA 54/ANSI Z223.1 2012, National Fuel Gas Code 13
ANSI/NFPA 58 2014, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code 14
ASME A112.1.2 (2012), Air gaps in plumbing systems 15
ANSI/APSP-11 2009 Standard for Water Quality in Public Pools
and Spas 16
ANSI Z535 series for safety signs and colors (5 standards)
(2011) 17
ASTM F2208-08, Standard specification for pool alarms 18
ASTM 1346-91(2010), Standard performance specification
for safety covers and labeling requirements for all covers for
swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs 19
1. U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance
Board, 1331 F Street, NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004,
(202) 272-0080, www.access-board.gov
2. American Concrete Institute, 38800 Country Club Drive,
Farmington Hills, MI 48331, (248) 848-3800, www.concrete.org
3, 7, 8, The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, 2111 Eisenhower
16. Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 838-0083, www.APSP.org
4, 5. NSF International, 789 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48113
(734) 769-8010, www.nsf.org
6. The Association of Electrical Equipment and Medical Imaging
Manufacturers (NEMA), 1300 N. 17th Street, Suite 1847,
Rosslyn, VA 22209 (703) 841-3200, www.nema.org
9, 13, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
14. Park, Quincy, MA 02269 (617) 770-3000, www.nfpa.org
10, 17. American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 West 43rd
Street, New York, NY 10036, NY (212) 642-4900, www.ansi.org
11, 12. Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 333 Pfingsten Road,
Northbrook, IL 60062, (847) 272-8800, www.ul.com
15. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), 3 Park
Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, NY 10016, (212) 591-8562,
www.asme.org
18, 19. ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, W. Conshohocken,
PA 19428, (610) 832-9585, www.astm.org
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
3 Definitions
Public swimming pools are classified as follows for pur-
poses of reference and application of this standard:
Class A pools: Class A pools are pools intended for use for
accredited competitive aquatic events such as Fédération
Internationale de Natation (FINA), USA Swimming, USA Diving,
USA Synchronized Swimming, USA Water Polo, National
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National Federation of
State High School Associations NFHS), etc. The pool may also be
used for recreation. Class A pools are covered unless otherwise
noted in the body of the standard.
Class B pools: Class B pools are pools intended for public
recreational swimming not otherwise classified. Class B pools are
covered within the scope of this standard.
Class C pools: Class C pools are pools intended for use for
apartments, condominiums, property owners associations, multi-
family owned pools, etc. and are covered within the scope of
this standard. Pools operated solely for and in conjunction with
lodgings such as hotels and motels are also covered within the
scope of this standard.
Class D pools: Class D pools are not covered within the scope of
this standard. Class D pools are operated for special purposes,
including but not limited to wave action pools, activity pools,
leisure rivers, vortex pools, and sand bottom pools.
Class E pools: Class E pools are pools used for physical therapy
and are above 86 °F (30 °C) and are not covered within the
scope of this standard.
Class F pools: Class F pools are wading pools and are covered
within the scope of this standard as set forth in Sections
6.9  and 8.4.2, and as noted in other sections of this standard.
remodel: To install cosmetic changes, accessory add-ons,
alterations, or modernizations to a commercial installation.
See Renovate.
renovate: To restore or repair all or part of a pool structure and/or
its component parts, including the rebuilding and/or replacing of
worn or broken parts. See Remodel.
slip-resisting: A surface that has been so treated or constructed to
significantly reduce the chance of a user slipping. The surface
shall not be an abrasion hazard.
4 Code compliance
4.1 Codes. Pools covered by this standard shall be
constructed and operated to comply with all local, state,
and federal codes governing safety and environmental
regulations.
5 General design
5.1  Plans and permits. Prior to construction, remodeling,
or renovation of a permanently installed public swim-
ming pool, plans and specifications shall be submitted
to the authority (state or local) for review, approval, and
issuance of a permit to construct, remodel, or renovate
as required by the authority having jurisdiction.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 2
5.2 Materials. Swimming pools and all appurtenances
thereto shall be constructed of materials that are
nontoxic to humans and the environment; that are
generally or commonly regarded to be impervious and
enduring; that will withstand the design stresses; and
that will provide a watertight structure with a smooth
and easily cleanable surface without cracks or joints,
(excluding structural joints), or to which a smooth,
easily cleanable surface/finish is applied or attached.
5.2.1  Use of sand. Clean sand or similar material, if
used in a beach or pool environment, shall be used
only over an impervious surface. The sand area shall
be designed and controlled so that the circulation
system, maintenance, safety, sanitation, and opera-
tion of the overall pool are not adversely affected.
5.3  Structural design. The structural design shall be in
accordance with accepted engineering practices.
5.4  Freeze protection. In climates subject to freezing
temperatures, the pool shell and appurtenances,
piping, filter system, pump and motor, and other com-
ponents shall be designed and constructed to facilitate
protection from damage due to freezing.
5.5  Surface condition. The surfaces within the pool
intended to provide footing for users shall have a slip-
resisting surface and shall not cause injury to the feet
during normal use.
5.6  Colors and finishes. The colors, patterns, or finishes
of the pool interior shall not obscure objects or surfaces
within the pool.
5.7  Accessibility for persons with disabilities. For Ameri-
cans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for
accessibility for persons with disabilities into public
swimming pools, see ADA Accessibility guidelines for
buildings and facilities, recreation facilities (ADAAG).
NOTE: For ADA requirements, see U.S. ADA Accessibil-
ity guidelines (ADAAG). (For more information on the
U.S. Department of Justice Americans with Disabili-
ties Act, visit the ADA web site at www.ada.gov. Some
pools may be exempt from ADA. See ADA definition of
public accommodation for Title II and (Title III facili-
ties).
6 Dimensional design
6.1  Perimeter shape. This standard is not intended to
regulate the perimeter shape of swimming pools. It
is the designer’s responsibility to take into account
the effect a given shape will have on the safety of the
occupants and required circulation to ensure sanita-
tion. All other dimensions, unless otherwise specified,
should allow a ± 2 in. (51 mm) tolerance.
 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

6.1.1  There shall be no protrusions, extensions, and 6.2  These construction tolerances are not applicable to
means of entanglement, or other obstructions in the Class A pools.
swimming pool areas that may cause the entrapment 6.2.2  Diving Envelope. Negative construction tolerances
or injury of the user. shall not be applied to the shallow dimensions of the
6.2  Allowable construction tolerances. Finished pool Minimum Diving Envelope in Table 6.2.2.
dimensions shall be held within the following 6.3  Floor slope. Floor slopes shall be in compliance with
construction tolerances as shown in Table 6.2. 6.3.1  through 6.3.5, except the requirements by the
ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG).
Table 6.2 Construction Tolerances
Design Requirements Construction Tolerance 6.3.1  All pool floors shall be sloped to the drain.
Allowed 6.3.2  The slope of the floor in the shallow area
Length – overall ± 3 in. (± 76 mm) shall not exceed 1 ft in 10 ft in Class C pools or 1 ft
Width – overall ± 3 in. (± 76 mm) in 12 ft (1: 12) in Class B pools in any direction to the
Depth – deep area ± 3 in. (± 76 mm) point of the first slope change, if a slope change exists.
Depth – shallow area ± 2 in. (± 51 mm) 6.3.3  The point of the first slope change shall be
Step treads & risers ± 1/2 in. (± 13 mm) defined as the point at which the floor slope exceeds
Waterline – pools with adjustable weir ± 1/4 in. (± 6 mm) 1 ft in 10 ft (1: 10) in Class C pools or 1 ft in 12 ft
skimmers (1: 12) in Class B pools.
Waterline – pools with non-adjustable ± 1/8 in. (± 3 mm) 6.3.4  The slope of the floor from the point of the first
skimming systems (gutters) slope change to the deep area shall not exceed 1 ft
All dimensions not otherwise specified ± 2 in. (± 51 mm) in 3 ft (1: 3).
in this standard
Competitive pools – Class A pools – As governed by
All dimensional requirements authority having jurisdiction

Figure 6.2.2: Construction dimensions for water envelopes for Class B and C pools
Pt. A Pt. B water line Pt. C Pt. D
1
1 2 ft. 9 in. (84 cm)
11° Max 5 ft. 5 11° Max
slope 5 (152 cm) slope
D1 Min D2 Min Min
.5
on in.
6.3
Se R. M

Class B: 1 in 12 Max slope

1 Class C: 1 in 10 Max slope
cti

3 Max slope

L1 Min
L2 Min L3 Min L4 Min
L5 Min

Table 6.2.2: Minimum Diving Water Envelopes

Pool Minimum Dimensions Minimum Width of Pool at:
Type D1 D2 R L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 Pt. A Pt. B Pt. C
7' -0" 8' -6" 5' -6" 2' -6" 8' -0" 10' -6" 7' -0" 28' -0" 16' -0" 18' -0" 18' -0"
VI (213 cm) (259 cm) (168 cm) (76 cm) (244 cm) (320 cm) (213 cm) (853 cm) (488 cm) (549 cm) (549 cm)
7' -6" 9' -0" 6' -0" 3' -0" 9' -0" 12' -0" 4' -0" 28' -0" 18' -0" 20' -0" 20' -0"
VII (229 cm) (274 cm) (183 cm) (91 cm) (274 cm) (366 cm) (122 cm) (853 cm) (549 cm) (610 cm) (610 cm)
8' -6" 10' -0" 7' -0" 4' -0" 10' -0" 15' -0" 2' -0" 31' -0" 20' -0" 22' -0" 22' -0"
VIII (259 cm) (305 cm) (213 cm) (122 cm) (305 cm) (457 cm) (610 mm) (945 cm) (610 cm) (671 cm) (671 cm)
11' -0" 12' -0" 8' -6" 6' -0" 10' -6" 21' -0" 0' -0" 37' -6" 22' -0" 24' -0" 24' -0"
IX (335 cm) (366 cm) (259 cm) (183 cm) (320 cm) (640 cm) (0 cm) (11.4 m) (671 cm) (732 cm) (732 cm)

Note 1: Negative tolerances (see Section 6.2) shall not be applied to any to the dimensions shown in this table.
Note 2: Pool types dictate the minimum water envelope dimensions as specified by the diving board manufacturers.

3 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Figure 6.3.5:
Maximum allowable
wall slope
6.3.5 Walls.  Where walls join the floor the transitional
point or profile shall comply with the following:
Except for Class A pool walls where racing lanes
terminate, walls may slope a maximum of 11° from
plumb (see Figure 6.3.5).
– Walls may intersect with the floor at an angle or a
transition profile.
– At water depths between 3 ft to 5 ft (91 to 152 cm)
the maximum radius shall be 2 ft 3 in. (69 cm).
– At water depths of 3 ft (91 cm) or less, a transi-
tional radius shall not exceed 6 in. (15 cm) and
shall be tangent to the wall and may be tangent to
or intersecting the floor.
– At water depths greater than 3 ft (91 cm), a
transitional radius shall be tangent to the wall
at a point no less than 2 ft 6 in. (76 cm) below the
water surface and may progressively increase
from 6 in. (15 cm) to a value capable of being
tangent to, or intersecting, the floor.
6.4  Water depths. Water depths for swimming areas
shall be a minimum depth of 3 ft (91 cm) unless the
authority having jurisdiction specifies otherwise.
6.4.1  Class A pools shall be designed and constructed
to provide the dimensions specified by Fédération
Internationale de Natation (FINA), USA Swimming,
USA Diving, USA Synchronized Swimming, USA
Water Polo, NCAA, NFHS, or other appropriate sanc-
tioning body.
6.5 Diving. This standard does not cover diving require-
ments for Class A pools. This standard covers diving
requirements for Class B and Class C pools.
6.5.1  When manufactured or field fabricated diving
equipment is installed, it shall conform to the specifi-
cations set forth in Sections 7.2.1  through 7.2.5.6. It
shall be located in the deep area of the pool to provide
at least the minimum dimensions as shown in Table
6.2.2 and shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 4
6.6  Manufactured diving equipment installation and
use instructions shall be provided by the diving equip-
ment manufacturer, and shall specify the minimum
water dimensions required for each diving board and
diving stand combination. They shall refer to the diving
envelope type of their choice by dimensionally relat-
ing their product to Point A on the diving envelopes
as shown in Figure 6.2.2, Table 6.2.2, and Sections
6.6–6.6.1.2.
6.6.1  Point A. Point A is the point from which all
dimensions of width, length, and depth are established
for the Minimum Diving Water Envelope (see Figure
6.2.2 and Table 6.2.2). If the tip of the diving board
or diving platform overhang is located at a distance
of Point A or greater from the deep end wall, and the
water depth at that location is equal to or greater than
the water depth requirement at Point A, then the
point on the water surface at the design water level
directly below the center of the tip of the diving board
or diving platform shall be designated as Point A.
6.6.1.1  Location of point A. The Minimum Diving
Water Envelope dimensions for pools with manu-
factured diving equipment shall be taken from
Point A as shown in Figure 6.2.2. Point A shall
be defined as the point on the water surface at
the design water level where the water depth is
required at Point A and is provided at a distance
of Point A as shown in Figure 6.2.2 and Table 6.2.2
from the deep end wall. The center of the tip of the
diving board or platform, manufactured or field
fabricated, shall be located directly above Point A.
6.6.1.2  Point A, as shown in Figure 6.2.2 and Table
6.2.2, shall be the reference point of origin for all
dimensions defining the minimum diving envelope.
6.6.2  Location of equipment and pool features in the
minimum diving envelope. If the pool is designed for use
with diving equipment, all steps, pool stairs, ladders,
underwater benches, offset ledges, special features,
and other accessory items, or any parts thereof, shall
be located outside the Minimum Diving Envelope (see
Figure 6.3.5).
6.7  Rest ledges. Rest ledges along the pool walls are
permitted. They shall not be less than 4 ft (122 cm)
below the water surface. If a ledge is provided it shall
be at least 4 in. (10 cm) wide and no more than 6 in.
(15 cm) wide.
6.8  Maximum user load. The maximum user load of Class
B or Class C pools shall be in accordance with Table 6.8.
6.9  Wading pools.  A wading pool shall be a separate pool
with an independent circulation system and physically
separated from the main pool as described in Sections
6.9.1  through 6.9.5.

Table 6.8: Maximum User Load
Pool/Deck Area Shallow Instructional
or Wading Areas
Pools with minimum deck 15 sq ft. per user
area (see 7.1.6–7.1.6.1.) (1.35 m2 per user)
Pools with deck area at least 12 sq ft. per user
equal to water surface area (1.08 m2 per user)
Pools with deck area at least 8 sq ft. per user
twice the water surface area (0.72 m2 per user)
6.9.1  Areas where the water depth at the edge of the
pool exceeds 9 in. (23 cm) shall be considered non-entry
areas and must be protected by natural or artificial
barriers.
6.9.2  Floors of wading pools shall be uniform and
sloped to drains, if existing with a maximum slope
of 1 ft in 12 ft (1: 12).
6.9.3  The maximum water depth shall be 18 in.
(457 mm).
6.9.4  The maximum distance from the top of the deck
to the water line shall not exceed 6 in. (15 cm).
6.9.5  Suction entrapment avoidance methods for
wading pools shall be in accordance with
ANSI/APSP/ICC-7.
Exception:  Suction outlets are prohibited in wading
pools.
7 Decks and deck equipment
7.1  Decks shall comply with Sections 7.1.1  through
7.1.17, as applicable.
7.1.1  Deck(s) shall be designed and installed in accor-
dance with the engineering methods required by the
authority having jurisdiction.
7.1.1.1  In the absence of specific local requirements,
a concrete deck shall be designed and constructed
in accordance with the recommended practices of
the latest published edition of American Concrete
Institute (ACI) Standard 302.1r-2004, Guide
for Concrete Floor and Slab Construction, or in
accordance with the requirements of the local
authority, the authority having jurisdiction, or both.
The deck shall be designed and constructed to meet
the applicable requirements of the Americans with
Disabilities Act.
7.1.2  Decks, ramps, coping, and similar step surfaces
shall be slip-resisting and cleanable.
7.1.3  Special features in or on deck(s) such as
markers, brand insignias, or similar materials shall be
slip-resisting.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
7.1.4  Step risers for the deck shall
be uniform and have a minimum
Deep Area (not Diving Area (per
height of 3-3/4 in. (9.5 cm) and a
including diving area) each diving board)
maximum height of 7-1/2 in. (19
20 sq ft. per user 300 sq ft. per user cm). A handrail shall be provided
(1.8 m2 per user) (27 m2 per user)
for stairs having three or more
15 sq ft. per user 300 sq ft. per user risers. The minimum tread dis-
(1.35 m2 per user) (27 m2 per user)
tance from front to back shall be
10 sq ft. per user 300 sq ft. per user 11 in. (28 cm).
(0.9 m2 per user) (27 m2 per user)
7.1.5  The deck or unobstruct­ed
access shall be provided at a minimum of 65% of the
pool perimeter to meet the requirement of the 10/20
rule.
NOTE:  The 10/20 rule states that a qualified lifeguard
or a number of lifeguards shall be trained and sta-
tioned in a manner that will permit them to identify
an incident or trauma within ten (10) seconds of
its initiation. Upon identification of the incident or
trauma, the guard shall be able to respond to and
initiate indicated protocol appropriate to the circum-
stance within twenty (20) additional seconds.
7.1.5.1  A minimum 4 ft (122 cm) deck width shall
be provided on the sides and rear of any diving
equipment, including diving boards, jump boards,
diving rocks, platforms, starting blocks. A deck
clearance of 3 ft (91 cm) shall be provided around all
other deck equipment.
7.1.6  The minimum slope of the deck(s) shall be 1/8
in. per ft (1: 96) for textured, hand-finished concrete
decks; 1/4 in. per ft (1: 48) for exposed aggregate con-
crete decks; 1/2 in. per 1 ft (1: 24) for indoor/outdoor
carpeting decks; and 3/8 in. per ft (1: 32) for brick and
heavy textured finishes, unless an alternate drainage
method is provided that prevents the accumulation of
pooling of water (see Table 7.1.6).
7.1.6.1  Decks shall be sloped so that standing
water shall be no deeper than 1/8 in. (3 mm), 20
minutes after the cessation of the addition of water
to the deck.
NOTE:  Two stacked U.S. quarters can be used to
measure the depth. Water should not cover the
quarters.
Table 7.1.6: Typical minimum drainage slopes
Surface Minimum
drainage slope
Textured, hand-finished concrete 1/8 in./ft  (1: 96)
Exposed aggregate 1/4 in./ft  (1: 48)
Carpet 1/2 in./ft  (1: 24)
Brick and heavy textures, finished 3/8 in./ft  (1: 32)
5 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
7.1.7  The maximum slope of all decks, other than
wood decks, shall be 1/2 in. per ft (1: 24) except for
ramps.
7.1.7.1  The maximum slope for wood decks shall be
1/8 in. per ft (1: 96).
7.1.7.2  Gaps shall be required between deck
boards in wood decks, and shall be consistent with
approved engineering methods with respect to the
type of wood used. They shall not cause a tripping
hazard.
7.1.8  The maximum open gap between pool decks and
adjoining decks or walkways, including joint mate-
rial, shall be 3/4 in. (19 mm). The difference in vertical
elevation between the pool deck and the adjoining
sidewalk shall be 1/4 in. (6 mm) unless it conforms to
Section 7.1.4.
7.1.9  Construction joints where the pool coping meets
the concrete deck(s) shall be watertight.
7.1.10  Construction joints where the pool coping meets
the concrete deck(s) shall be installed to protect the
coping and its mortar bed from damage as a result of
the anticipated movement of adjoining deck(s).
7.1.11  Control joints in deck(s) shall be provided to
minimize visible cracks outside the control joints due
to imposed stresses and/or movement of the slab.
7.1.12  Areas where decks join existing concrete work
shall be protected by an expansion joint to protect the
pool from the pressures of relative movements.
7.1.13  The edges of all decks shall be radiused,
tapered, or otherwise designed to eliminate sharp
corners.
7.1.14  Pressure tests. The pressure testing of the pool
piping shall be maintained throughout the pool’s con-
struction and in accordance with Section 8.4.
7.1.15  Valves installed in or under any deck(s) shall
have access provided for operation, service, and main-
tenance. Access covers shall be provided.
7.1.16  Hose bibb(s), with a cross connection control to
prevent backflow, shall be provided for rinsing down
the entire deck and shall be in accordance with the
authority having jurisdiction.
7.1.17  Water-powered devices (such as water- powered
lifts) shall have a dedicated hose bib (water source)
with approved backflow protection in accordance with
the authority having jurisdiction.
7.2  Deck equipment. Deck equipment including diving
facilities and starting blocks shall comply with Sections
7.2.1  through 7.4, as applicable.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 6
7.2.1  A minimum 4 ft (122 cm) deck width shall be pro-
vided on the sides and rear of any diving equipment,
including diving boards, jump boards, diving rocks,
platforms, starting blocks.
7.2.2  Starting blocks. Starting blocks are intended
for competitive swimming and shall conform to
Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA), USA
Swimming, National Collegiate Athletic Association
(NCAA), or National Federation of State High Schools
Associations (NFHS) regulations.
7.2.3  The diving equipment manufacturer shall
specify minimum head room required above the tip of
the board.
7.2.4  Public pools with diving equipment of 1 meter
(39.4 in.) or greater in height, or pools designed for
springboard or platform diving, shall comply with the
dimensional design requirements of Fédération Inter-
nationale de Natation (FINA), USA Diving, National
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National
Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS)
or the appropriate sanctioning body.
7.2.5  Diving equipment. Diving equipment shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s speci-
fications.
7.2.5.1  The diving equipment manufacturer shall
affix a label to the diving equipment.
7.2.5.2  A label shall be permanently affixed to and
visibly located on the diving equipment or jump
board and shall include but not be limited to the
following:
– The minimum water envelope required for each
diving board and diving stand combination,
– Manufacturer’s name and address,
– Manufacturer’s identification and date of manu-
facture, and
– The maximum weight of the user.
7.2.5.3  The diving equipment manufacturer shall
provide diving equipment use instructions.
7.2.5.4  Diving equipment shall have slip-resisting
tread surfaces
7.2.5.5  Supports for diving equipment. Supports,
platforms, stairs, and ladders for diving equipment
shall be designed to carry the anticipated loads.
Stairs and ladders shall be of corrosion-resisting
material and shall be easily cleanable and with slip-
resisting tread. All diving stands higher than 21 in.
(53 cm) measured from the deck to the top back end
of the board shall be provided with stairs and/or a
ladder. Step treads shall be self-draining.

7.2.5.6  Diving equipment 1 meter (39.4 in.) high
or higher shall be provided with a top guard rail,
which shall be at least 30 in. (76 cm) above the
diving board, and extend to above the edge of the
pool wall.
7.2.5.7  Springboard fall protection guards. Spring-
boards located at a height greater than 5 ft (1.5 m)
above the pool deck shall have a fall protection
guard on each side of the springboard. The design
and the selection of the materials of construction of
such fall protection guards shall be determined by
the manufacturer of the springboard support struc-
ture. The installation and maintenance of such fall
protection guards shall be in accordance with the
fall protection guard manufacturer’s instructions.
7.3  Swimming pool slides. Swimming pool slides, when
installed, shall comply with the requirements of the
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) as
published in the Code of Federal Regulations, 16 CFR,
Part 1207. The manufacturer shall provide installation
and use instructions with each slide. Each slide shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruc-
tions.
7.4  Play/water activity equipment. When installed, play/
water activity equipment shall be installed in accor-
dance with manufacturer’s instructions.
8 Circulation systems
8.1 System. A circulation system consisting of pumps,
piping, return inlets and suction outlets, filters, and
other necessary equipment shall be provided for com-
plete circulation of water. All pools shall have separate
dedicated filtering systems, unless otherwise allowed
by the authority having jurisdiction. Wading pools and
spas shall have separate dedicated filtering systems.
8.1.1  The equipment shall be of adequate size to turn
over the entire pool water capacity as specified in
Table 8.1.1. The system shall be designed to give the
proper turnover rate based on the manufacturer’s
recommended maximum pressure and flow rate of the
filter with clean media.
Table 8.1.1: Turnover Period
Swimming Turnover Period
Pool Category
Class A, B, 1-1/2 times average depth in feet to equal the
and C pools hours of turnover required, to a maximum of 6 hours
Wading pools 1 hour
Public spas See ANSI/APSP-2 Standard for Public Spas
NOTE: The average depth of the pool in accordance with this table determines the
minimum turnover period for each pool class.
7 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
8.1.1.1  Water clarity shall be maintained (see
Section 8.5.) Pool water shall be of a clarity to
permit an 8 in. (203 mm) diameter black and white
Secchi disc or suction outlet cover (formerly called
main drain) located on the bottom of the pool at its
deepest point to be visible and sharply defined from
any point on the deck up to 30 ft (914 cm) away in a
direct line of sight from the disc or suction outlet.
(Clarity is a function of proper filtration and
maintenance of proper chemical operational
parameters. See Appendix A.)
8.1.2  Circulation system components that require
replacement or servicing shall be accessible for inspec-
tion, repair, or replacement and shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
8.1.3  Circulation system components and equipment
shall comply with the edition of ANSI/NSF 50 or NSF
14 in effect at the time of their manufacture, or alter-
nate criteria that is acceptable by the authority having
jurisdiction.
8.1.4  Pool equipment and piping shall be supported in
accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications to
prevent damage from misalignment and settlement.
8.2  Water velocity. The water velocity in the pool piping
shall not exceed 10 ft (305 cm) per second for discharge
piping (except for copper pipe where the velocity shall
not exceed 8 ft (244 cm) per second); and 6 ft (183 cm)
per second for suction piping, and 1-1/2 ft (46 cm) per
second flow rate through the suction grates. See also
Appendix B.
8.2.1  Pool piping shall be sized to permit the rated
flows for filtering and cleaning without exceeding the
operating head of the pump.
8.3  Piping and fittings. The circulation system plastic
pipe and fittings shall be nontoxic and shall be able to
withstand the design operating pressure and condi-
tion of the swimming pool. Plastic pipe shall be process
piping and shall be at least Schedule 40 PVC weight
and shall comply with ANSI/NSF 14 Plastics, piping
components and related materials, or criteria acceptable
to the authority having jurisdiction.
8.3.1  Pool piping subject to damage by freezing shall
have a uniform slope in one direction and shall be
equipped with valves for adequate drainage or shall
be capable of evacuating water to prevent freezing and
possible damage.
8.3.2  Equipment shall be designed and fabricated to
drain the pool water from the equipment, together
with exposed face piping, by removal of drain plugs
and manipulating valves, or by other methods. Refer
to the manufacturer’s specifications for information on
draining the system.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
8.3.3  Circulation system piping, other than that
integrally included in the manufacture of the pool,
shall be subject to an induced static hydraulic pres-
sure test (sealed system) at 25 pounds per square inch
(psi) (1.8  kg per cm2) for 24 hours. The test shall be
performed before the deck is poured, and the pressure
shall be maintained throughout construction.
8.4  Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class F pools. Class A,
Class B, Class C, and Class F pools shall be equipped
with a pump suction (vacuum) gauge, filter inlet pres-
sure gauge, filter outlet gauge, and flow meter.
8.4.1  Each public swimming pool and wading pool
shall be equipped with a flow-measuring device that
indicates the rate of flow through the filter system.
The flow rate measuring device shall read out in
gallons per minute (liters per minute) and shall be
selected and installed to be accurate within 10% of
actual flow.
8.4.2  Wading pools. A wading pool shall be a separate
pool with an independent circulation system and
shall be physically separated from the main pool as
described in Sections 6.9.1  through 6.9.5.
8.5  Water clarity and chemistry. The circulation system
shall be designed to maintain water clarity and to
distribute chemicals as required for pool sanitation
(see Section 17). The pool water shall circulate during
all hours the pool is open for use, plus any additional
time necessary to ensure continuous water clarity and
chemical distribution.
9 Filters
9.1 Design. Filters shall be sized to accommodate or
exceed the design flow rate of the system and provide
water clarity as noted in Sections 9.1.1  through 9.1.3.
See the manufacturer’s instructions.
9.1.1  Filters shall comply with the edition of ANSI/
NSF 50 in effect at the time of their manufacture.
9.1.2  Filters shall be designed so that filtration sur-
faces can be inspected and serviced.
9.1.3  Maximum flow rate of filters shall not exceed the
requirements of the latest published edition of ANSI/
NSF 50.
9.2  Internal pressure. On pressure-type filters, a means
shall be provided to permit the release of internal pres-
sure.
9.2.1  Any filter incorporating an automatic internal
air release as its principal means of air release shall
have a lid(s) that provide(s) a slow and safe release
of pressure as a part of this design and shall have
manual air releases in addition to automatic releases.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 8
9.2.2  A separation tank used in conjunction with a
filter tank shall have a manual method of air release
or a lid that provides a slow and safe release of pres-
sure as it is opened.
9.2.3  The following warning or equivalent shall be
visible and noticeable within the areas of any air
release valve or fitting: “Do not start the circulation
system after maintenance without first properly reas-
sembling the filter and separation tank in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions then opening
any air release valve or fitting.”
9.3 Piping. Piping furnished with the filter shall be of
suitable material capable of withstanding 1-1/2 times
the working pressure. The suction piping shall not
collapse when there is a complete shutoff of flow on the
suction side of the pump. Piping shall meet the require-
ments of the latest published edition of ANSI/NSF-50.
10 Pumps and motors
10.1 Performance. A pump and motor shall be provided
for circulation of the pool water. The pump shall be
capable of providing the flow required for filtering the
pool water in accordance with 8.1.1.and filter cleaning
(if applicable) against the total dynamic head developed
by the complete system.
10.1.1  Where pumps are within the scope of ANSI/
NSF-50, they shall comply with the edition in effect at
the time of their manufacture.
10.2  Horsepower rating. Pump horsepower rating and
labeling shall not exceed the brake horsepower of the
motor.
10.3  Intake strainers. A cleanable strainer or screen shall
be provided, upstream of the circulation pump(s), to
remove solids, debris, hair, lint, etc., on all pressure
filter systems where intake strainers are within the
scope of ANSI/NSF-50.
10.4 Location. Pump(s) and motor(s) shall be accessible
for inspection and service in accordance with the manu-
facturer’s specifications.
10.5 Safety. The design, construction, and installation
of the pump(s) and component parts shall provide safe
operation and service in accordance with the manufac-
turer’s specifications.
10.5.1  Important safety consideration. The pump shall not
be operated if the suction outlet (“main drain”) grate,
cover, is missing, broken, or loose. The swimming pool,
spa, hot tub, wading pool, or whirlpool bathtub appli-
ance shall be shut down immediately and remain shut
down until a proper repair or replacement has been
accomplished.

10.6  Mechanical seals. Where a mechanical pump seal
is provided, components of the seal shall be corro¬sion-
resistant and capable of operating under conditions
normally encountered in pool operation.
10.7  Motor frame specifications. All motors shall have an
open, drip-proof enclosure (as defined by ANSI/NEMA-
MG1, Motors and generators) and be constructed elec-
trically and mechanically to perform satisfactorily and
safely under the conditions of load and environment
normally encountered in swimming pool installations.
10.8  Service factor. All motor(s) shall be capable of oper-
ating the pump under full load with a voltage variation
of +10% from the nameplate rating. If the maximum
service factor of the motor is exceeded (at full voltage),
the manufacturer shall indicate this on the pump curve.
10.9  Load protection. All motors shall have thermal or
current overload protection, either built in, or in the line
starter, to provide locked rotor and running protection.
10.10  Flooded inlet provision. Pumps located below the
waterline shall have isolation valves installed on
suction and discharge lines, in an accessible place, for
maintenance and removal of the pump.
11 Inlets and outlets
11.1  Entrapment avoidance. The submerged suction piping
and fittings shall comply with the latest published
edition of ANSI/APSP/ICC-7.
11.2  Testing and certification. All suction outlet(s) (other
than skimmers) shall be provided with covers that
have been tested by an ILAC (International Laboratory
Accreditation Cooperation) as required by the latest
published edition of ANSI/APSP-16.
11.3  Outlets per pump. Outlets per pump shall be in
accordance with the latest published edition of ANSI/
APSP/ICC-7.
11.4  Water velocity. There is no water velocity limitation
through most covers/grates in the published edition of
ANSI/APSP-16 (see Appendix B). For field fabricated
outlet/s: Site-specific, unblockable suction outlet fitting
assemblies are defined by ANSI/APSP-16 as being
intended as, but not limited to, a single suction outlet.
They are limited to 1.5 ft per second (0.46 m/s) of flow
velocity through the open area of the cover/grate, unless
rated for a lower flow rate by the Registered Design
Professional.
11.5 Performance. Inlets and outlet(s) shall be provided
and arranged to produce a uniform circulation of water
and maintain the distribution of sanitizer residual
throughout the pool.
9 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
11.6  Number of inlets. The number of return inlets shall
be based on a minimum of one return inlet per 300 sq
ft (27.87 m2) of pool surface area, or fraction thereof.
Return inlet fittings shall be of sufficient size or quan-
tity to allow a full turnover rate of the circulation
system in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifica-
tions for return inlets.
11.7  Inlet and outlet design. Inlets and outlets, (to and
from) the circulation system, shall be designed so that
they do not constitute a hazard to the user.
11.8 Covers/grates. To avoid serious injury or death,
close the pool or spa to bathers if any outlet cover/grate
is missing, broken, or inoperative. There is no backup
for a missing or damaged outlet cover/grates for all five
(5) entrapment hazards (see Appendix H):
• hair entrapment
• limb entrapment
• body entrapment
• mechanical entrapment
• evisceration.
11.9  Types of systems. If a suction outlet system, such as
a filtration system booster system, automatic cleaning
system, solar system, etc., has a single suction outlet,
or multiple suction outlets that are capable of being
isolated by valves, each suction outlet shall protect
against bather entrapment in accordance with the
latest published edition of ANSI/APSP/ICC-7.
11.10 Accessibility. When provided, vacuum cleaner
fitting(s) shall be located in an accessible position(s)
at least 6 in. (152 mm) and no greater than 18 in. (457
mm) below the water level, or as an attachment to the
skimmer(s). They shall be installed in accordance with
the latest published edition of ANSI/APSP/ICC-7.
12 Surface skimming systems
12.1  A surface skimming system shall be provided
on all public swimming pools. The surface skimming
system shall be designed and constructed to skim the
pool surface when the water level is maintained within
the operational system level.
12.2  Skimming devices shall be designed and installed
so as not to constitute a hazard to the user. When
equalizer lines are used, they shall have an anti-entrap-
ment cover/grate or other entrapment protection in
accordance with the latest published edition of ANSI/
APSP-16. Skimmer covers located on a walking surface
shall be securely seated, slip resistant, of sufficient
strength to withstand normal deck use, and not consti-
tute a tripping hazard.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
12.3  Where automatic surface skimmers are used as
the sole overflow system, at least one surface skimmer
shall be provided for each 500 sq ft (46 m2) or fraction
thereof of the water surface area. Recessed areas such
as stairs, swimouts, and spas shall not be considered in
the calculation. When skimmers are used, they shall be
located to maintain effective skimming action.
12.3.1  A single pump circulation system shall be
designed to handle a minimum of 100% of the pool
turnover rate through skimmers.
12.3.2  A multiple pump circulation system shall
be designed to handle a minimum 100% of the pool
turnover rate through the skimmers.
12.3.3  When an equalizer line is used, the opening at
the pool wall shall be protected with a suction outlet
cover/grate in accordance with the latest published
edition of ANSI/APSP-16.
12.4  When a perimeter-type surface skimming system
is used as the sole surface skimming system, it shall
extend around a minimum of 50% of the pool (see
Section 12.3).
12.4.1  When perimeter surface skimming systems are
used, they shall be connected to the circulation system
with a system surge capacity of not less than 1 gallon
for each sq ft (40.7  liters per square meter) of pool
surface. The capacity of the perimeter overflow system
is permitted to be considered as a portion of the surge
capacity.
12.5  The hydraulic capacity of the surface skimming
overflow system shall be capable of handling 100%
percent of the circulation flow.
13 Electrical and illumination requirements
13.1 Codes. The electrical installation shall meet the
requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC)
NFPA 70, as adopted by the Authority Having Jurisdic-
tion (AHJ), or the latest published edition of the (NEC)
NFPA 70, if it has not been adopted by any AHJ or
other entity.
13.2 Lighting. During periods of operation sufficient illu-
mination shall be provided to allow visibility of all por-
tions of the pools, including the bottom suction outlets.
Illumination shall be provided by natural or artificial
means or both.
13.2.1  When a pool is open during periods of low
natural illumination, artificial lighting shall be
provided.
13.2.1.1  Overhead or underwater lighting shall be
provided to illuminate the pool and adjacent deck
areas. Such lighting shall be listed, labeled and
installed in accordance with the NEC.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 10
13.2.1.2  For outdoor pools, the combination of over-
head and underwater lighting shall provide not
less than 3 foot-candles (32.3 lux) of illumination at
the pool water surface and the adjacent deck area.
For indoor pools, the combination of overhead and
underwater lighting shall provide not less than of 10
ft-candles (107.64 lux) at the pool water surface.
13.2.2  Underwater lighting shall provide a minimum
of 8 foot-candles (fc) (86.11 lux) per sq ft of pool water
surface area.
Alternate: Incandescent underwater lighting shall
provide a minimum of 1/2 watt per sq ft (5.4  watts per
m2) of pool water surface.
13.2.3  Underwater lighting requirements may
be waived when the overhead lighting, provides a
minimum of 15 foot-candles (161.5 lux) of illumination
at the pool water surface.
13.3  Emergency illumination. Public pools and pool areas
that operate during periods of low illumination shall be
provided with sufficient emergency lighting to permit
evacuation of the pool and securing of the area in the
event of power failure. The emergency lighting lumi-
nance shall be not less than 1 foot-candle (10.764 lux) at
the water surface and the walking surface of the deck.
14 Heaters
14.1  Important safety consideration. Fossil fuel appliances,
like swimming pool heaters, produce poisonous carbon
monoxide gas as a by-product of combustion. Proper
venting of exhaust gases, and correct sizing of gas
meters, gas supply piping, makeup air intakes, etc., are
critical installation considerations in preventing poten-
tial carbon monoxide gas poisoning or loss of life.
14.2  This section pertains to appliances using either
fossil fuels, such as natural gas, propane (LPG), and #2
fuel oil, or electric heating equipment for heating pool
water.
14.3  Heaters shall be tested and comply with the
requirements of the most recent editions of ANSI
Z21.56 Gas fired pool heaters and/or UL 1261. Heat
pumps shall comply with the latest published edition of
UL 1995 and be accepted by a recognized testing facil-
ity.
14.4  Heaters shall be sized in accordance with the
manufacturer’s specifications.
14.5 Installation. Heater(s) shall be installed in accor-
dance with all federal, state, and local codes as well as
the manufacturer’s specifications.
14.5.1  A means shall be provided to monitor pool
water temperature.

14.5.1.1  Public access to controls shall not be
allowed.
14.5.2 Support. The heater shall be installed on a
surface with sufficient structural strength to support
the heater when it is full of water and operating. The
heater shall be stationary after plumbing, gas, and/or
electrical connections are completed.
14.5.3  Combustible surfaces. If the heater requires a
non-combustible surface per the manufacturer, it
shall be placed on cement or other accepted surface
per the latest published edition of ANSI-Z21.56, or
federal, state, and local codes.
14.5.4  All heaters shall be installed and maintained
with the minimum clearances to combustibles for
which the heater has been tested as specified by the
manufacturer.
14.5.5 Ventilation. The heater shall have ventilation in
order to ensure operation.
14.5.5.1  Important safety consideration. Fossil fuel
appliances like swimming pool heaters, produce
poisonous carbon monoxide gas as a by-product of
combustion. Proper venting of exhaust hoses, and
correct sizing of gas meters, gas supply piping,
makeup air intakes, etc., are critical installation
considerations in preventing potential carbon
monoxide gas poisoning or loss of life.
14.5.6  Makeup air. When installing a fossil fuel heater
indoors, proper openings to the room area are a
necessity. The heater shall be installed in accordance
with federal, state, or local codes and the manufac-
turer’s specifications.
14.6  Heating energy source
14.6.1  Natural gas energy supply. The heater gas supply
piping shall comply with the manufacturer’s speci-
fications and the latest published edition of ANSI
Z223.1/NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code.
14.6.1.1  Important safety consideration. Install a gas
cock, properly sized and readily accessible, outside
the cabinet, to stop the flow of natural gas at the
heater for service or emergency shutdown.
14.6.2  Propane energy supply. Whenever a propane
(LPG) appliance is installed, special attention shall
be given to ensure that the storage tank, supply
piping, and regulator shall be adequately sized to
ensure operating fuel pressures as specified by the
appliance manufacturer. Consult the fuel supply
company and ensure that the system is installed
in accordance with the latest published edition of
ANSI/NFPA 58 2011, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code.
11 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
14.6.2.1  Propane appliances located in a pit or
enclosed area shall be installed in accordance with
the latest published edition of NFPA 54, National
Fuel Gas Code.
14.6.2.2  Important safety consideration. Install a gas
cock, properly sized and readily accessible, outside
the cabinet, to stop the flow of propane (LPG) at the
heater for service or emergency shutdown.
14.6.3  Electrical energy supply. Electric heating appli-
ances shall be installed in accordance with the latest
published edition of the National Electrical Code
(NEC) and any federal, state, or local codes.
14.6.3.1  The heater shall be grounded and bonded
to reduce the hazard of electric shock.
14.6.4  The energy source for the heater shall be
installed in compliance with all applicable codes.
14.7  Heater circulation system
14.7.1  Water flow through the heater, any bypass
plumbing, any back-siphoning protection, and the
use of heat sinks, shall be done in accordance with
the manufacturer’s specifications and local codes.
14.7.2  Special consideration. When required by the
manufacturer, the heater shall be installed with
an automatic “cool down” switch to ensure that the
pump continues to run (for the time period specified
by the manufacturer) after the heater shuts off.
15 Water supply
15.1  Water quality. All fill and makeup water to main-
tain the pool water level and water used as a vehicle
for sanitizers or other pool chemicals, for pump
priming, or for other such additions to the pool, shall
be from a potable water source. (See Section 17 before
the pool is used.)
NOTE: Many municipalities use monochloramine as
the residual disinfectant. The use of this water for
makeup will add combined chlorine and may result in
the need for breakpoint chlorination.
15.2  No direct mechanical connection shall be made
between the potable water supply and the swimming
pool, chlorinating equipment, or the system of piping
for the pool, unless it is protected against backflow
and back-siphonage in a manner approved by the
state or local authority, or through an air gap meeting
the latest published edition of ANSI A112.1.2  or as
approved by the state or local authority.
15.3  An over-the-rim spout, if used, shall be located
under a diving board, adjacent to a ladder, or other-
wise properly shielded so as not to create a hazard.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Its open end shall have no sharp edges and shall not
protrude more than 2 in. (51 mm) beyond the edge of the
pool. It shall be separated from the pool water by an air
gap at least 1.5  pipe diameters from the pipe outlet to
the rim.
16 Waste water disposal
16.1  Backwash water or pool draining water. Backwash
water or pool draining water shall be discharged in
accordance with federal, state and local regulations and
may include the sanitary or storm sewer, an approved
disposal system on the premises, or other means. No
direct connections shall be made between the end of the
backwash line and the disposal system. An appropriate
air-gap shall be provided.
16.2  Water salvage. Filter backwash water may be
returned to the pool if the backwash water has been
treated to meet potable water quality standards
approved by the federal, state or local authority.
16.3  Waste post treatment. When necessary, filter back-
wash water and pool drainage water shall be treated
chemically or through the use of settling tanks to elimi-
nate or neutralize chemicals, diatomaceous earth (DE),
or contaminants in the water that exceed the limits set
by the state or local effluent discharge requirements.
17 Sanitizing equipment, chemical feeders, and
chemical operational parameters
17.1  Equipment standards. Sanitizing equipment shall
comply with the requirements of the latest published
edition of ANSI/NSF-50, and shall be capable of intro-
ducing a sufficient quantity of a U.S. EPA-registered
sanitizer to maintain the appropriate levels in Section
17.5.1, under all conditions of intended use.
17.1.1  Pools shall be required to have an independent
sanitizing feed system installed and functioning in
compliance with Section 17.1.2. Manual feeding of
sanitizers or other treatment chemicals shall be in
accordance with label directions and is prohibited
when the pool is in use. Manual feeding of sanitizers
via the skimmer basket(s) is prohibited when the pool
is in use. Undissolved sanitizer shall not be present
within the skimmer basket when the facility is open to
bathers.
17.1.2  The pool water shall contain sanitizer residuals
at all times and in all areas of the pool, as per Section
17.5.1, that can be easily measured by simple and
accurate field tests. Only EPA-registered sanitizers
with appropriate federal and state registration and
local approval shall be used.
17.2  Chemical feeders. The installation and use of chemi-
cal feeders shall conform to the following:
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 12
17.2.1  Chemical feed systems shall comply with the
requirements of the latest published edition of ANSI/
NSF-50 and installed in accordance with manufac-
turer’s specifications.
17.2.2  Chemical feed pumps shall be installed and
controlled so they cannot operate unless there
is adequate return flow to properly disburse the
chemical throughout the pool as designed.
17.3 Training. Personnel responsible for the operation of
the chemical feed equipment shall be properly trained
in the operation of that equipment, the procedure for
performing and interpreting the necessary chemical
field tests, and the appropriate emergency procedures
(see Appendix G: Use of elemental chlorine).
17.4 Testing. Every public pool shall maintain a simple
and accurate test kit capable of measuring pH and
sanitizer residuals as per 17.5. In addition, every public
pool shall have the means of determining total alkalin-
ity, calcium hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), and
cyanuric acid (if used). The method used in determining
the free available chlorine residual shall be such that
chloramines or other oxidizers that may be present in
the pool do not affect the determination.
17.4.1  The performance of automatic sensing devices
shall be verified and documented on a daily basis
using manual testing techniques.
17.5  Chemical operational parameters. All pools covered
by this standard shall be built and equipment installed
such that, when properly operated, they comply with
the following water quality standards and/or those
required by the appropriate federal, state and local
authority. Additional chemical operational parameters
are included in Appendix A. (See also ANSI/APSP-11.)
17.5.1  A residual of an EPA-registered sanitizer shall
be present at all times and in all areas of the pool. One
of the following EPA-registered sanitizer systems shall
be used:
•Chlorine
•Bromine
•Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB)
•Metal-based system.
Not all of these sanitizer systems are approved for all
pool uses. Refer to the EPA label, as well as applicable
codes and regulations.
17.5.2  The pH of the water should be maintained
between 7.4  and 7.6, but shall not exceed 7.8  or be
less than 7.2. Maintaining total alkalinity as per
Appendix A will help control pH within the required
range.

17.5.3  Bacteria shall not exceed the levels set and
monitored by the state and local health departments.
17.5.4  Pool water shall be of a clarity to permit an 8
in. (203 mm) diameter black and white Secchi disc or
suction outlet (main drain), located on the bottom of
the pool at its deepest point, to be visible and sharply
defined from any point on the deck up to 30 ft (9.14 m)
away in a direct line of sight from the disc or suction
outlet.
18 Specific safety features
18.1 Handholds. Handholds shall conform to Sections
18.1.1  through 18.1.2.3.
18.1.1  Public pools, Classes A, B, and C, shall be pro-
vided with a handhold around the perimeter in areas
where depths exceed 3 ft 6 in. (107 cm). Handholds
shall be provided no farther apart than 4 ft (122 cm).
18.1.2  Handholds shall include but are not limited
to any one or a combination of the items listed in
Sections 18.1.2.1  through 18.1.2.3.
18.1.2.1  Coping, ledge, or deck along the immediate
top edge of the pool that provides a slip-resisting
surface of at least 4 in. (102 mm) minimum horizon-
tal width and located at or not more than 12 in.
(30 cm) above the waterline;
18.1.2.2  Ladders, stairs, or seat ledges;
18.1.2.3  A secured rope or railing placed at or no
more than 12 in. (30 cm) above the waterline.
18.2  Rope and float line. A rope and float line shall
conform to 18.2.1  through 18.2.3.
18.2.1  In pools where the water depth exceeds 6 ft
-4 in. (193 cm), a wide contrasting color band extend-
ing from the waterline tile, down the wall, across the
floor, and up the opposing wall to the waterline shall
be located at 5 ft (152 cm) of water depth. A rope and
float line shall be located 1 ft to 2 ft (30–61 cm) on the
shallow side of that band.
18.2.2  The rope and float line shall be securely
fastened to wall anchors of corrosion-resisting materi-
als and of the type that shall be recessed or have no
projection that will constitute a hazard when the line
is removed.
18.2.3  The line shall be of sufficient size and strength
to offer a good handhold and to support loads normally
imposed by users.
18.3  Depth markers. Depth markers shall conform to
18.3.1  through 18.3.9.
18.3.1  Depth of water in feet shall be plainly and
conspicuously marked on the vertical pool wall at or
13 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
above the waterline (see Secs. 18.3.7  and 18.3.8.)
18.3.1.1  Depth markers shall indicate the actual
pool depth within 3 in. (76 mm), at normal operat-
ing water level when measured 3 ft (91 cm) from
the pool wall or at the tangent point where the cove
radius meets the floor, whichever is deeper.
18.3.1.2  Depth markers on the vertical pool wall
shall be positioned to be read from the waterside.
Depth markers shall be placed in such a way that
they allow as much of the numerical value to be
visible above the waterline as possible.
18.3.1.3  Depth markers on the deck shall be within
18 in. (457 mm) of the water edge and positioned
to be read while standing on the deck facing the
water.
18.3.2  Horizontal depth markers shall be slip-
resisting.
18.3.3  Depth markers shall be installed at the
maximum and minimum water depths, and at all
points of slope change.
18.3.4  Depth markers shall be installed at inter­
mediate increments of water depth not to exceed 2 ft
(610 mm). Depth marker shall be spaced a maximum
of 25 ft (762 cm) apart.
18.3.5  Depth markers shall be arranged uniformly on
both sides and both ends of the pool.
18.3.6  Depth markers on irregularly shaped swim­
ming pools shall designate depths at all major
deviations in shape, as well as conform to the
foregoing sections.
18.3.7  Depth markers shall have a 4 in. (102 mm)
minimum height. The numbers shall be of contrast-
ing color to the background on which they are applied,
and the color shall be of a permanent nature.
18.3.8  Lettering shall either spell out “feet” or “inches”
or abbreviate “ft.” or “in.” In addition, the depth of
water may also be displayed in meters. Lettering for
meter depth markers may be spelled out “meters” or
abbreviated “m.”
18.3.9  Pool depths of 5 ft (152 cm) or less shall display
the “No Diving” symbol. The symbol may be placed
on the deck at intervals of no more than 25 ft (762
cm). Additional signage shall be in accordance with
ANSI-Z535 Series of standards for safety signs and
colors. (See also Section 24 and Appendix E: Signage
Warning Against Shallow Water Diving.)
18.4  Lifeguard station. When lifeguards are required,
chairs and stations shall be positioned to allow guards
to meet the 10/20 rule.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
NOTE: The 10/20 rule states when a qualified lifeguard
or a number of lifeguards trained and stationed in a
manner that will permit them to identify an incident or
trauma within ten (10) seconds of its initiation. Upon
identification of the incident or trauma, the guard shall
be able to respond to and initiate indicated protocol
appropriate to the circumstance within twenty (20)
additional seconds.
18.4.1  When no lifeguard is on duty, a suitable sign to
that effect shall be conspicuously posted.
18.5  Lifesaving equipment. Lifesaving equipment shall
conform to Sections 18.5.1  through 18.5.3.
18.5.1  Public pools Classes A, B, and C shall have life-
saving equipment conspicuously and conveniently on
hand at all times that conforms to 18.5.1.1–18.5.1.3.
18.5.1.1  A swimming pool accessory pole, including
a body hook, shall be a minimum of 12 ft (366 cm)
long.
18.5.1.2  A minimum 1/4 in. (6 mm) diameter throw-
ing rope as long as 1-1/2 times the maximum width
of the pool, or 50 ft (15.2 m), whichever is less, to
which has been firmly attached a ring buoy with
an outside diameter of at least 15 in. (38 cm) or a
similar flotation device.
18.5.1.3  Emergency response units. Pools covered by
this standard shall provide first aid equipment,
including a first aid kit, in an accessible location.
The first aid kit shall include, at a minimum,
impermeable, unused, and disposable gloves and
a sufficient supply of materials to stop bleeding
and to clean or cover minor cuts and abrasions and
meet the OSHA standards for prevention of disease
transmission.
18.5.2  Public pools, Classes A, B and C shall have a
telephone with posted names and phone numbers of
the nearest available police, fire, emergency access,
and/or rescue unit, and/or 911.
Emergency Telephone Signs: A sign shall be posted in
the immediate vicinity of the pool, stating the pool's
address, the location of the nearest telephone with
references that emergency telephone numbers are
posted at the location. Those emergency telephone
numbers shall include the name and phone number of
the nearest available police, fire, ambulance service,
and/or rescue unit, and/or “911,” if available.
18.5.3  Public pools, Classes A, B, and C shall post a
notice of the location of an emergency shutoff switch,
if a switch is provided for the pumps.
18.5.3.1  Disconnecting means shall be accessible,
located within sight of the pool, and located at least
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 14
5 ft (1.5 m) horizontally from the inside walls of
the pool.
Plainly mark the location of the electrical cut-off
switch for the pool pump.
Know where the pool pump switch is and know how
to turn it off.
Cut off the pump immediately.
Have a portable telephone close by to call for help.
18.6 Barriers. Pools shall be protected by a fence, wall,
building, enclosure, or solid wall of durable material of
which the pool itself may be constructed, or any com-
bination thereof. Natural or artificial barriers shall
be provided so as to afford no external handholds or
footholds. The barrier shall be at least 4 ft (122 cm)
in height and equipped with a self-closing and posi-
tive self-latching closure mechanism at a height of at
least 45 in. (114 cm) above the ground and provided
with hardware for locking. The self-latching mecha-
nism shall be corrosion resistant and capable of closing
and latching against the prevailing winds. It shall be
installed so settlement will not defeat the latch. Facili-
ties that can provide alternate means of protection shall
be allowed. For additional information on Layers of
Protection, see Appendix C.
18.6.1  Where the release mechanism of the self-latch-
ing device is located less than 54 in. (137 cm) from the
bottom of the gate, the release mechanism and open-
ings shall comply with the following:
–The release mechanism shall be located on the pool
side of the gate at least 3 in. (76 mm) below the top
of the gate;
–The gate and barrier shall have no openings greater
than 1/2 in. (13 mm) within 18 in. (457 mm) of the
release mechanism; and
–The barrier shall have no opening that allows the
passage of a sphere of 4 in. (102 mm) in diameter.
18.6.2  Except as provided in Section 18.6.3, one
barrier may surround multiple pools as one facility.
18.6.3  A barrier shall be provided to separate a
wading pool, designed for use by infants or toddlers,
from the main pool in accordance with Sections
6.9.1  through 6.9.5.
18.7  Pool alarms. Pool alarms, if used, shall be in compli-
ance with ASTM F2208.
18.8  Safety covers. When an automatic power/manual
safety cover for swimming pools is used as a barrier
it shall be in compliance with ASTM 1346, Standard
performance specification for safety covers and labeling
requirements for all covers for swimming pools, spas
and hot tubs.

19 Dressing facilities (Classes A and B only)
19.1  Dressing facilities. Dressing and sanitary facilities
shall be provided unless these facilities are provided
in connection with the general development for other
purposes and are of adequate capacity and number and
in close proximity to the pool.
19.1.1  Dressing and sanitary facilities shall be designed
in accordance with the requirements of ANSI/ICC
A117, or per the requirements of the jurisdiction having
authority.
19.2 Maintenance. Dressing rooms and sanitary facili-
ties shall be well lighted, drained, ventilated, and
constructed with impervious materials. They shall be
developed and planned so that good sanitation can be
maintained throughout the building at all times.
19.3 Partitions. Partitions between portions of the
dressing room area, screen partitions, shower, toilet,
and dressing room booths shall be of durable material
not subject to damage by water, and shall be designed
so that a waterway is provided between partitions and
floor, to permit thorough cleaning of the walls and floor
areas with hoses and brooms.
19.4 Floors. Floors shall have a slip-resisting surface
and shall be cleanable. Floor drains shall be provided,
and floors shall be sloped a minimum of 1/4 in. per ft
(1 cm per 48 cm) toward the drains to ensure positive
drainage.
19.5  Hose bibbs. Hose bibbs with a backflow preventer
shall be provided such that the dressing room interior
may be rinsed down using a 50 ft (15 m) hose.
19.6 Fixtures
19.6.1  Lavatories, showers, and toilets for Class A and
Class B swimming pools shall meet or exceed the fol-
lowing general requirements.
NOTE: Class F pools, if provided, shall require lavato-
ries and toilets.
19.6.1.1  The minimum criteria for bathhouse
sanitary and dressing facilities shall be based upon
the anticipated maximum attendance of users and
their sex.
19.6.2  One water closet, one lavatory, and one urinal
shall be provided for the first 100 male users. One
additional water closet, lavatory, and urinal shall be
provided for each additional 200 male users or fraction
thereof.
19.6.3  Two water closets and two lavatories shall be
provided for the first 100 female users. One additional
15 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
water closet and lavatory shall be provided for each
additional 100 female users or major fraction thereof.
19.6.4  A minimum of 2 shower heads shall be pro-
vided for the first 100 users of each sex. One addi-
tional shower head for each sex shall be added for each
additional 50 male or female users or fraction thereof.
19.6.5  An anti-scald device shall control the shower
water supply. The water heater and thermostatically-
controlled mixing valves shall be inaccessible to users
and shall be capable of providing to each shower head
2 gallons (7.6 liters) per minute of water, not to exceed
120 °F (49 °C) with a minimum of 90 °F (32 °C).
19.6.6  Soap dispensers for either liquid or powdered
soap shall be provided at each lavatory. The dispenser
shall be of all metal or plastic type with no glass per-
mitted in these units.
19.6.7  A shatter-resistant mirror shall be provided.
19.6.8  Toilet paper holders and toilet paper shall be
provided at each water closet.
19.6.9  Fixtures shall be installed in accordance with
local plumbing codes and shall be properly protected
against back-siphonage.
19.6.10  Fixtures shall be designed so that they are
readily cleaned. Frequent cleaning and disinfecting
shall not cause damage.
19.6.11  Sanitary napkin and tampon dispensers shall
be installed in toilet and/or bather preparation areas
designated for female users in Class A and B pools.
19.6.12  Baby changing tables shall be provided in all
rest rooms.
19.6.13  No less than 1 drinking fountain shall be pro-
vided and available to users at the pool site.
20 Visitor and spectator areas (Classes A and B only)
20.1  Visitor and spectator areas. There shall be separation
between the spaces used by visitors in street clothes
and those spaces used by bathers. The visitor and spec-
tator area shall not be located within the pool perimeter
enclosure unless it is physically segregated from the
space used by bathers. The design of spectator facilities
shall comply with the requirements of the authority
having jurisdiction.
20.2  Toilet facilities. Toilet facilities may be shared by
spectators and pool users when the toilet facility is
designed to accommodate the total capacity of both
groups.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
21 Food consumption (Classes A and B only)
21.1  Eating, drinking, and smoking. Eating, drinking, and
smoking shall not be permitted in the swimming pool
or areas designated for swimmers, unless the area is
specifically designed and authorized by the manage-
ment for this use.
21.1.1  Food and beverages served or consumed in
designated areas shall be in unbreakable containers.
21.1.2  Trash containers shall be provided in areas
designated for food consumption.
22 Operation and management
22.1  Certified operator. Both existing and new public
swimming pools shall be maintained under the super­
vision and direction of a properly trained operator
who shall be responsible for the sanitation, safety, and
proper maintenance of the pool, and all physical and
mechanical equipment. The operator shall be certified
in accordance with state/local codes or comparable
certifying organizations.
22.2  Class A, B, and C pools. Lifeguards shall be equipped
with a rescue tube and attired so that they are readily
identifiable as members of the lifeguard staff.
22.2.1  A CPR-certified person shall be on the premises
when the pool is in use.
22.2.2  Class A and B pools shall have a lifeguard on
duty during the designated hours of operation. The
lifeguard shall have lifeguarding and CPR certification
by the American Red Cross, the YMCA, National Pool
and Waterpark Lifeguard Program, or comparable
certifying organization.
22.2.3  Within the immediate vicinity of Class A, B,
and C swimming pools, a sign shall be posted that
informs pool users of the location of the nearest tele-
phone and that emergency phone numbers are posted
at that location.
22.2.4  Emergency information posted at the telephone
location shall list the following:
–Name and phone number of nearest available
police, fire, and/or rescue unit;
–Name and phone number of nearest ambulance
service; and
–Name and phone number of nearest available
hospital.
22.2.5  Public pool facilities shall maintain preseason
and ongoing “in-service” training programs for all
lifeguards, pool operators, and other aquatic person-
nel. Such programs shall include lifeguard alertness/
response drills and performance “audits” based on
the 10/20 rule.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 16
22.2.6  Managers of public pools shall maintain an
emergency action plan similar to the one outlined
by the American Red Cross or YMCA or comparable
aquatic safety organization manuals. The plan should
include a “Contamination Evacuation Plan,” “Chemi-
cal Emergency Evacuation Plan,” “Emergency Crisis
Plan,” “Water Rescue and Injury Emergency Plan,”
“Drill Procedures for Emergency Situations,” and
other emergency plans and safety programs.
These shall be practiced during preseason in-service
training and drills.
22.3 Instructions
22.3.1  Upon completion of any swimming pool, the
manager and his operators shall be given complete
written and oral instructions by the builder as well as
operational instructions for the pool, all equipment,
the circulation system, and the maintenance of the
swimming pool water.
22.3.2  Warnings, rules, and regulations for users shall
be posted in a conspicuous place and shall be visible to
all persons entering the pool area. (See also
Section 24 and Appendix E.)
22.3.3  The maximum bather loads shall be in accor-
dance with Section 6.8. and Table 6.8.
22.4  Operating permits
22.4.1  A public pool shall not operate until such time
as the appropriate application has been submitted to
the state or local authority, on the forms prescribed
by the authority having jurisdiction and the valid
operating permit has been issued by the state or local
authority.
22.4.2  The swimming pool shall not be placed in
operation until appropriate inspections show compli-
ance with the requirements of this standard. (Refer to
Section 5.1.)
22.4.3  Should inspections determine that the opera-
tion or maintenance of the pool is such as to constitute
a health or safety hazard for the user, the operating
permit shall be revoked or suspended. The pool opera-
tion in such a case shall be suspended immediately.
22.4.4  The revoked or suspended permit may be reis-
sued or reinstated upon presentation of evidence that
the deficiencies that caused the revocation or suspen-
sion have been corrected. Such evidence should be in
the form of a re-inspection by the state or local author-
ity, or by acceptable evidence being presented at a
hearing before the authority issuing the permit.
22.4.5  Signage should include a “Contamination
Evacuation Plan,” “Emergency Crisis Plan,” “Drill
Procedures,” and other safety programs.
 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

23.1.7  If any of these means of entry/exit

are to qualify as an ADA means of entry/
exit, they shall meet the ADA require-
ments. See U.S. ADA Accessibility Guide-
lines (ADAAG). A chair lift that qualifies
as an ADA means of entry/exit shall not be
considered as a means of entry/exit for the
general public.
23.2  Pool stairs. The design and construc-
tion of stairs into the pool in either shallow
or deep water, including recessed pool
stairs, shall conform to Sections 23.2.1
through 23.2.2.3 (see Figure 23.2).
23.2.1  Treads shall have a minimum
Figure 23.1.5: Minimum diving water envelope
width of 24 in. (610 mm) at the leading
edge. Treads shall have a minimum unob-
23 Entries, exits, pool stairs, swimouts, structed surface area of 240 sq. in. (1548 cm2) and a
underwater benches, and special features minimum unobstructed horizontal depth of 10 in.
NOTE: For ADA requirements, see U.S. ADA Accessibil- (254 mm) at the center line.
ity Guidelines (ADAAG). (For more information on the 23.2.2  All risers at the center line, except for the
U.S. Department of Justice Americans with Disabilities bottom riser, shall have a maximum uniform height of
Act, visit the ADA web site at www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/ 12 in. (305 mm).
adahom1.htm. Some pools may be exempt from ADA.
23.2.2.1  The bottom riser height is allowed to vary
See ADA definition of public accommodation for Title II
to the floor.
and Title III facilities.
23.2.2.2  The vertical distance from the pool coping,
23.1 Entry/exit. All pools shall have at least two means deck, or step surface to the uppermost tread shall
of entry/exit located so as to serve both ends of the be a maximum of 12 in. (305 mm).
pools.
23.2.2.3  When stairs are located in water depths
23.1.1  Where the bottom of the pool to the deck is over 48 in. (1.2 m), the lowest tread shall be no
24 in. (610 mm) or less at the pool wall, such areas shall less than 48 in. (1.2 m) below the deck and shall be
be considered as providing their own natural mode of recessed in the pool wall.
entry/exit.
23.1.2  A means of entry/exit shall be provided in the
shallow end of all pools which are greater than 24 in.
(610 mm) in depth and may consist of pool stairs, a
ramp, or a beach entry.
23.1.3  The second means of entry/exit shall consist of
one of the following: steps/stairs, ladders, grab rails
with treads (recessed), ramps, swimouts, or other
designs that provide the minimum utility as specified
in this standard.
23.1.4  Swimming pools over 30 ft (914 cm) in width
shall provide entries/exits on both sides of the deep
area of the pool.
23.1.5  If the pool is designed for use with diving equip-
ment, the entries and exits, pool stairs, ladders, under-
water benches, special features, and other accessories
shall be located outside the minimum diving water
envelope as shown in Figure 23.1.5.
23.1.6  All treads shall have slip-resisting surfaces.
Figure 23.2: Pool stairs, side view

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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
23.3  Shallow end detail for beach and sloping entries
23.3.1  Sloping entries used as a pool entrance shall
have a slope no steeper than 1 ft per 10 ft (10 cm per
100 cm).
23.3.2  Sloping entries are permitted to be used in
conjunction with steps and benches.
23.3.2.1  Where benches are used in conjunction
with sloping entries, the vertical riser distance
shall not exceed 12 in. (305 mm). For steps used in
conjunction with sloping entries all requirements of
Section 23.2 shall apply.
23.3.2.2  A vertical drop exceeding 12 in. (305 mm)
inside a sloping entry shall be protected by a
handrail.
23.3.2.3  Beach and sloping entries surfaces shall be
of slip-resisting materials.
23.4 Handrails. If handrails are used they shall conform
to Sections 23.4.1 through 23.4.4.
23.4.1  Handrails shall be made of corrosion-resisting
materials.
23.4.2  Handrails shall be installed so they cannot be
removed without the use of tools.
23.4.3  The leading edge of handrails/handholds
facilitating stairs and pool entry/exit shall not exceed
18 in. (457 mm) back from the vertical face of the
bottom riser.
23.4.4  The outside diameter of handrails shall be a
minimum of 1-1/4 in. (25 mm) and maximum of 2 in.
(51 mm) in diameter.
23.5  Pool ladder design and construction. Design and
construction of ladders shall conform to Sections 23.5.1
through 23.5.7.
23.5.1  All steps and ladders shall be located outside
the minimum diving water envelope (see Figure
23.1.5).
23.5.2  All ladder treads shall have slip-resisting sur-
faces.
23.5.3  Ladders shall provide two handholds or two
handrails.
23.5.4  There shall be a clearance of 3 in. (76 mm)
minimum and 6 in. (152 mm) maximum between the
pool wall and the ladder.
23.5.5  The clear distance between ladder handrails
shall be 17 in. (432 mm) minimum and 24 in. (610 mm)
maximum.
23.5.6  There shall be a uniform distance between
ladder treads, with a 7 in. (178 mm) minimum distance
and 12 in. (305 mm) maximum.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals 18
23.5.7  Ladder treads shall have a minimum horizon-
tal uniform depth of 2 in. (51 mm).
23.6  Recessed treads. The design and construction of
recessed treads in the pool wall shall conform to Sec-
tions 23.6.1 through 23.6.6.
23.6.1  All recessed treads shall have slip-resisting
surfaces.
23.6.2  Recessed treads at the centerline shall have a
uniform vertical spacing of 7 in. (178 mm) minimum
and 12 in. (305 mm) maximum.
23.6.3  The vertical distance between the pool coping
edge, deck, or step surface and the uppermost recessed
tread shall be 12 in. (305 mm) maximum.
23.6.4  Recessed treads shall have a minimum depth
of 5 in. (127 mm) and a minimum width of 12 in.
(305 mm).
23.6.5  Recessed treads shall drain into the pool.
23.6.6  Recessed treads shall be provided with a hand­
rail/grab rail or handhold on each side of the treads.
23.7  Underwater seats, benches, and swimouts. The
design and construction of underwater seats, benches,
and swimouts shall conform to 23.7.1 through 23.7.2.7.
23.7.1 Swimouts. Swimouts shall meet the require-
ments listed in Sections 23.7.1.1 through 23.7.1.6.
23.7.1.1  Swimouts shall be designed to be located
completely outside of the perimeter shape of the
pool (see Figure 23.1.5).
23.7.1.2  The horizontal surface shall be 20 in.
(508 mm) maximum below water line.
23.7.1.3  A minimum unobstructed surface equal
to that required for the top tread of the pool stairs
shall be provided. No other restrictions on sizes
apply (see Section 23.2.1).
23.7.1.4  When used as an entry/exit access,
swimouts shall be provided with a step to meet the
pool stair requirements (see Section 23.2).
23.7.1.5  The leading edge shall be visibly set apart.
23.7.1.6  Swimouts are allowed in the deep or
shallow area of the pool.
23.7.2  Underwater seats and benches. Underwater seats
and benches shall conform to the following:
23.7.2.1  Underwater seats and benches shall be
located completely inside of the perimeter shape of
the pool (see Figure 23.1.5).
23.7.2.2  The horizontal surface shall be 20 in.
(508 mm) maximum below water line.
 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

23.7.2.3  An unobstructed surface shall be provided

that is a minimum of 10 in. (254 mm) deep and a
minimum of 24 in. (610 mm) wide.
23.7.2.4  Underwater seats and benches shall not
be used as the required entry/exit access.
23.7.2.5  Underwater seats may be located in the
deep area of the pool where diving equipment
(manufactured or constructed) is installed,
provided they are located outside of the diving
water envelope.
23.7.2.6  Underwater seats and benches are
allowed in conjunction with pool stairs.
23.7.2.7  The leading edge shall be visually set
apart.
Figure 24.1: Example of signage
FIGURE 412.1 Actual Size
24 Signage SAFETY SIGN
Actual Sizes: 11" × 13-3/8" (279 × 340 mm)
24.1  Safety signage. Safety signage shall be provided in 11 in. × 13-3/8 in. (279 × 340 mm) × 18-1/2" (406 × 470 mm)
16"

accordance with the authority having local jurisdiction 16 in. × 18-1/2 in. (406 × 470 mm)18-3/8" × 24" (467 × 610 mm)
advising on the danger of diving into shallow water 18-3/8 in. × 24 in. (467 × 610 mm) For SI:1 inch = 25.4 mm.
and on the prevention of drowning.
See Figure 24.1 for an example of a safety sign. This
sign is based upon a study entitled “Design of Swim-
ming Pool Warnings.” This sign has been reviewed by
the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which
supports its use.
24.2  Sign placement. Signs shall be positioned in accor-
dance with the authority having local jurisdiction to
provide effective visual observation by users.
24.3  Signs shall be posted that clearly mark the
location of the pump emergency shut-off switch.
The switch shall be clearly labeled.

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 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix A
Chemical Operational Parameters
This Foreword is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.
These guidelines set forth the suggested operational parameters for the proper chemical treatment and
maintenance of pools and spas. Applicable health department guidelines and label directions supersede
these parameters. Chemical treatment alone will not produce sanitary pool and spa water. A filtration
system in proper operational condition is also required to attain clear and sanitary water.
KEY
APSP-1 Public Swimming Pools APSP-5 Residential Inground Swimming Pools
APSP-2 Public Spas APSP-6 Residential Portable Spas
APSP-3 Residential Permanent Spas APSP-9 Aquatic Recreation Facilities
APSP-4 Residential Aboveground/Onground Pools APSP-11 Water Quality for Public Pools and Spas

A. Sanitizer Levels

1. Sanitizer Residual
A residual of an EPA-registered sanitizer shall be present at all times and in all areas of the pool or spa.
One of the following EPA-registered sanitizer systems shall be used: Chlorine; or Bromine; or PHMB; or Metal-based systems.
1. Free Chlorine, ppm
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
APSP-1 1.0 2.0−4.0 The U.S. EPA has established Hot water/heavy use may require operation at or near maximum
APSP-4 a maximum chlorine level levels.
APSP-5 of 4.0 ppm for re-entry of • Test kits are available for a variety of free chlorine ranges.
swimmers into the water. • Free chlorine test color (DPD) may be completely or partially
APSP-9
However, state or local health bleached by chlorine levels greater than 5 ppm to give a false low
APSP-11 codes may allow or require reading.
the use of chlorine levels
For appropriate test kit, consult pool professional or test kit
above 4.0 ppm.
manufacturer.
Regular oxidation is recommended and remedial practices may be
necessary.
APSP-2 2.0 2.0−4.0 The U.S. EPA has established Public Spas and Swim spas: During hours of operation, test the water
APSP-3 a maximum chlorine level hourly, record the results, maintain the ideal range continually and
APSP-6 of 5.0 ppm for re-entry shock treat at the end of the daily use period.
of swimmers into spas. Residential Spas and Swim spas: Maintain these levels continually
APSP-11
However, state or local health during hours of operation. Test water before use. During extended use
codes may allow or require test water hourly. Shock treat water after use
the use of chlorine levels
above 5.0 ppm.
2. Combined Chlorine, ppm
(High combined chlorine results in reduced sanitizer efficacy. Take remedial action to reduce combined chlorine.)
APSP-1 0 0 0.2 Signs of combined chlorine: Sharp chlorine-like odor and eye irritation
APSP-3 (e.g., mucous membrane).
APSP-4
APSP-5
APSP-6
APSP-9
APSP-11
APSP-2 0 0 0.5
APSP-11
(continued)

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3. Total Bromine, ppm

NOTE: Refer to manufacturer’s product label for specific use concentrations. Use concentrations vary between different types of brominating
compounds.
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
APSP-1 1.0 2.0–3.0 The U.S. EPA allows • Hot water/heavy use may require operation at or near maximum
APSP-4 Residential Pools maximum bromine levels of levels.
APSP-5 3.0–4.0 up to 8.0 ppm for re-entry • Public swimming pools require maintenance of higher Total
Public Pools of swimmers into the water. Bromine residuals than residential pools.
APSP-9
However, state or local health • Regular oxidation is recommended.
APSP-11 codes may allow or require Residential: During hours of operation, maintain these levels
APSP-2 2.0 2.0–4.0 the use of bromine levels continually. Test water before use. During extended use test water
APSP-3 Residential spas above 8.0 ppm. hourly. Shock treat water after use.
APSP-6 and swim spas Public: During hours of operation, maintain the ideal range
APSP-11 4.0–6.0 continually. Test the water hourly and record results. Shock treat water
Public spas after use.
and swim spas
4. PHMB (polyhexamethylene biguanide), ppm as product
All 30 30–50 50 Certain classes of pool chemicals or treatment processes are
facilities incompatible with PHMB sanitizer. The pool or spa owner should
consult with the supplier of PHMB if there is any question about
compatibility of an auxiliary chemical or process.
These include, but are not limited to:
• Chlorine/bromine sanitizers
• Copper-based algicides
• Monopersulfate (peroxymonosulfate) oxidizers
• Phosphate-based chelating (metal sequestering) agents and
detergents
• Electrolytic chlorinators
• Metal-based ionizers
When used with ozone, follow manufacturer’s directions.
Consult pool professional or test kit manufacturer for appropriate
test kit.
Regular oxidation is recommended with a compatible oxidizer, such as
hydrogen peroxide.
5. Metal-Based System
Any metal-based system used must incorporate an EPA-registered sanitizer; follow product manufacturer’s EPA-accepted label for use and/or
operation requirements.
B. Chemical Values
NOTE: When operating outside the ideal ranges, an LSI calculation should be performed to ensure the water is balanced.

1. pH
All 7.2 7.4 – 7.6 7.8 If pH is too low:
facilities • rapid dissipation of sanitizer
• plaster and concrete etching
• eye discomfort
• corrosion of metals
• vinyl liner wrinkling
If pH is too high:
• low chlorine efficacy
• scale formation
• cloudy water
• eye discomfort

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 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

2. Total Alkalinity (Buffering) ppm as CaCO3*

Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
All 60 80–100 180 If total alkalinity is too low:
facilities for calcium • pH bounce
hypochlorite, • Corrosion tendency
lithium
If total alkalinity is too high:
hypochlorite,
and sodium • Cloudy water
hypochlorite

60 100−120 180 • Increased scaling potential

for sodium dichlor, • pH tends to be too high or to drift upward more rapidly.
trichlor, chlorine * These values are based on the alkalinity from bicarbonate and
gas and bromine carbonate only. Alkalinity should be corrected to account for
compounds cyanuric acid when used (see APSP-11, Section A 7.5).
3. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) ppm
All NA NA 1500 ppm greater than An increase in TDS may indicate an accumulation of impurities
facilities TDS at pool or spa start-up. during the course of operation. Excessively high TDS (excluding the
(Start-up TDS includes source amount of sodium chloride added) may lead to hazy water and scale
water TDS and any other formation, corrosion of fixtures, and may inhibit sanitation.
inorganic salt added at start- TDS can be reduced by partial draining and addition of fresh water.
up or later.) For Spas: TDS should be periodically reduced by draining. (See
Section K, Water Replacement Procedure)
4. Calcium Hardness, ppm, as CaCO3
APSP-1 150 200−400 1000 Total alkalinity and pH may need to be adjusted to the lower end of
APSP-4 their respective ranges if hardness is over 500 ppm.
APSP-5
APSP-9
APSP-11
APSP-2 100 150−250 800
APSP-3
APSP-6
APSP-11
5. Heavy Metals
All NA NA If excessive heavy metals (such as copper, iron and manganese) are
facilities present:
• Staining may occur
• Water may discolor
• Filter cycle may decrease and require more frequent back-washing
• May indicate pH too low, corrosion, metallic source water,
excessive metal ions from treatment chemicals, etc.
6. Langelier Saturation Index (LSI)
All −0.3 0.0 +0.5
facilities
(continued)

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C. Biological Values
(Maintaining adequate sanitizer levels is critical to prevent growth of algae and bacteria)
1. Visible Algae
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
All facilities None None visible None visible If algae growth is observed, recommendations may include but are not limited to:
visible • Superchlorinate the pool or spa.
Superchlorination should not be performed when PHMB is used.
• Use an EPA-registered algicide according to label directions.
• Supplement with brushing and vacuuming.
Some algicides may cause foaming.
2. Bacteria
All facilities (See APSP-11) Public Facilities: If bacteria count exceeds local health department requirements,
superchlorinate and follow proper maintenance procedures. Superchlorination
should not be performed when PHMB is used.
Residential Facilities: Maintain proper sanitizer level and pH to control bacteria.
D. Stabilizer (when used)
1. Cyanuric Acid, ppm
All facilities 10 30−50 100 If stabilizer is too low: Chlorine residual is rapidly destroyed by sunlight.
If stabilizer is too high: May reduce chlorine efficacy against algae and
pathogens.
The effect of cyanuric acid on slowing the oxidation of organics, kill rates of
bacteria, viruses, and algae has been demonstrated, primarily in controlled
laboratory studies. However, no disease outbreaks linked to cyanuric levels in
properly sanitized pools have been reported.
NOTE: Cyanuric acid is not recommended for indoor pools or spas where
protection from sunlight is not necessary. Cyanuric acid does not stabilize
bromine sanitizers.
E. Oxidation
Regular oxidation is recommended for pools and spas with normal bather load as a preventive treatment
1. Chlorine Products
APSP-1 As needed Weekly Determined Some high-use pools may require oxidation several times per week.
APSP-4 by bather Regular oxidation is recommended to prevent the build-up of contaminants,
APSP-5 load, weather maximize sanitizer efficiency, minimize combined chlorine, and improve water
conditions clarity.
APSP-9
APSP-11 Chlorine should not be used to oxidize a pool or spa sanitized by PHMB.

APSP-2 At the end of each

APSP-3 day facility is used.
APSP-6
APSP-11

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 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

2. Potassium Monopersulfate
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
APSP-1 As needed Weekly Determined Some high-use pools may require oxidation several times per week.
APSP-4 by bather Regular oxidation is recommended to prevent the build-up of contaminants,
APSP-5 load, weather maximize sanitizer efficiency, minimize combined chlorine and improve water
conditions, etc. clarity.
APSP-9
APSP-11 Potassium monopersulfate will measure as combined available chlorine in DPD
test system.
APSP-2 At the end of each Refer to test kit manufacturer’s directions.
APSP-3 day facility is used
Potassium monopersulfate should not be used to oxidize a pool or spa sanitized
APSP-6 by PHMB.
APSP-11
3. Hydrogen Peroxide
All facilities Monthly As needed Determined Hydrogen peroxide should be used only with PHMB sanitizers. Hydrogen peroxide
by bather should not be used as an oxidizer for pools and spas sanitized by chlorine or
load, weather bromine.
conditions, etc.
F. Remedial Practices
1. Superchlorination
All facilities Follow label directions. Use a registered chlorine sanitizer.
Do not re-enter pool or spa until water meets the prescribed values in Section A.
Do not superchlorinate a pool or spa treated by PHMB.
Some symptoms that may indicate a need for superchlorination are:
• Cloudy water
• Slime formation
• Musty odors
• Difficulty in maintaining a sanitizer residual
• Algae and/or high bacteria counts
• Eye irritation from chloramines
For fecal response guidelines, refer to
http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/index.html
2. Superchlorination to establish breakpoint, dosage in ppm
APSP-1 At least High dosage may be required to satisfy chlorine demand. If combined chlorine
APSP-2 10 times persists, water replacement should be considered. Superchlorination should not
APSP-4 combined be performed when PHMB is used.
chlorine
APSP-5
APSP-9
APSP-11
3. Shock Treatment and Shock Oxidizers
All facilities Some conditions that may indicate a need for a shock or a shock oxidizer are:
• Cloudy water
• Difficulty in maintaining a sanitizer residual
• Periods after heavy bather use
• Adverse weather.
Shock oxidizers are not sanitizers. They are effective in oxidizing organic
contaminants. If the purpose is to treat bacteria or visible algae, an EPA-registered
shock product should be used; follow label directions.
Spas should be shocked or shock-oxidized on a daily basis when used.
(continued)

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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

4. Chlorine Dioxide
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
As needed Determined by occurrence White or pink-colored biofilms can infest the plumbing of PHMB pools
of biofilms in skimmer and eventually spread onto pool surfaces. On other occasions, the
or plumbing, or by biofilms will be hidden from view, but will cause a rapid decrease
abrupt disappearance of in hydrogen peroxide. Chlorine dioxide kills the peroxide-degrading
hydrogen peroxide. organisms, but should be used only to treat the plumbing and not the
pool itself.
Follow label directions.
5. Clarification/Flocculation
All As needed Follow manufacturer’s directions.
facilities
6. Algicides
All As needed Use U.S. EPA-registered products. Follow manufacturer’s directions.
facilities Use of some algicides may cause foaming.
7. Foam Control
All As needed There shall be no Foam may harbor persistent microorganisms.
facilities persistent foam (foam If foaming is not adequately controlled, consider a daily shock or
remaining in a spa after oxidation treatment, water replacement, or an appropriate anti-foam
the jets are turned off). agent. Follow manufacturer’s directions.
8. Nitrates
All Nitrate ion is a nutrient for algae and a number of bacteria. Elevated
facilities algae and bacteria populations associated with elevated nitrate ion
concentrations create a significant chlorine demand. Nitrate ion is at
the highest oxidation state of nitrogen, and does not have a chlorine
demand.
9. Phosphate
All No requirements Phosphate is an oxidized form of phosphorous. Phosphorous is a
facilities non-metallic element and an essential nutrient for all living organisms,
including bacteria and algae. Phosphate does not create a chlorine
demand since the phosphate ion does not react with free chlorine.
However, inadequate maintenance and sanitization can allow algae
and bacteria to reproduce rapidly by using phosphorous as a nutrient.
Under these circumstances, the multiplying algae or bacterial
populations will cause chlorine demand.
G. Temperature
All Personal 78–94 °F (26–34°C) 104 °F (40 °C) If temperature is too low:
facilities preference depending on pool • Bather discomfort
type and use If temperature is too high:
Up to 104 °F • Excessive fuel requirement
(40 °C) depending • Increased evaporation
on spa type and use • Bather discomfort
• Increased scaling potential
• Increased use of sanitizers
Overexposure to hot water may cause nausea, dizziness, and fainting.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission states: “Hot tub water
temperatures should never exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit.”
Temperatures well below 104 °F (40 °C) are recommended for
extended use (exceeding 10−15 minutes) or for pregnant women,
people with certain medical conditions or medications, and for young
children.

©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-6

 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

H. Water Clarity
Standard Minimum Comments
All facilities The deepest part of the pool or spa and/or main If water is turbid:
drain shall be visible and sharply defined. • Sanitizer level may be low
Pools: Pool water shall be of a clarity to permit an 8 • Filtration/circulation system may require maintenance or
in. (203 mm) diameter black and white Secchi disc increased run (filtering) time
or main suction outlet (main drain) located on the • Improper chemical balance (Section B)
bottom of the pool at its deepest point to be clearly • Consult remedial practices (Section F)
visible and sharply defined from any point on the
deck up to 30 feet (9.14 m) away in a direct line of
sight from the disc or main drain.
Spas: The bottom of the spa at its deepest point shall
be clearly visible.**
** This test shall be performed when the water is in
a non-turbulent state and bubbles have been allowed
to dissipate.
I. Supplemental Sanitizers
1. Ozone
Concentration in air above pool or spa water, ppm
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
All facilities 0.1 ppm over • Serves as oxidizer of water contaminants.
8 hour time-weighted average and • Ozone shall be used only in conjunction with an EPA-registered
0.3 ppm for any 15 minute period sanitizer.
• Indoor installations should have adequate ventilation.
• When ozone is used for indoor installations, air monitoring is
required.
See OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1000 Table Z-1.
2. UV
All facilities As needed UV lamps shall be used only in conjunction with an EPA-registered
sanitizer.
J. Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP)
APSP-1 When an ORP controller is used, it shall not be relied upon as a
APSP-2 method for measuring the concentration of sanitizer in the water.
APSP-9 The sanitizer level shall be measured with traditional wet chemical
methods capable of detecting specific sanitizer residuals (e.g.
APSP-11
DPD, N, N-diethyl-p-phenylene diamine for free available chlorine),
to ensure that the minimum sanitizer residual is maintained. For
PHMB-treated pools, levels for ORP values are not applicable.
ORP reading may be affected by a number of factors including,
but not limited to, pH, probe condition, cyanuric acid, sanitizer
type, and supplemental oxidizers.
Follow manufacturer’s recommendations.
(continued)

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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

K. Water Replacement
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum Comments
APSP-1 The water should be It is recommended that regular water replacement be applied to pools, although
APSP-4 drained and replaced certain circumstances may prohibit this practice (e.g., drought conditions) or
APSP-5 at a rate of 7 gallons make it unnecessary (e.g., supplementary water treatments such as reverse
APSP-9 per bather osmosis to extract contaminants from the water). Evaporation loss will not
remove contaminants and so make-up water for evaporation loss should not be
APSP-11
counted as water drained and replaced.
APSP-2 Water in spas Water in spas Water replacement is necessary to dilute dissolved solids, to maintain water
APSP-3 or hot tubs with or hot tubs with clarity, and to do necessary routine maintenance.
APSP-6 high bather use high bather use Water replacement can be necessary even if water has been maintained
requires partial requires complete properly.
APSP-11
or complete replacement of water High bather use is defined as amount of bathers per day, not necessarily the
replacement per the replacement amount of time each bather is in pool or spa.
of water guide-lines below.
Frequent water replacement is required to control TDS buildup from bathers and
periodically.
treatment chemicals:
Residential: Drain and refill every three months with average use. More frequent
water replacement is required for heavy use.
Public: More frequent water replacement is required due to heavier bather loads.

This procedure provides guidelines on how to determine the
frequency for which spa or hot tub water should be replaced.
Test the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and calculate the WRI (Water
Replacement Interval) to determine when a spa needs to be
drained. Drain the spa completely, clean it thoroughly, and refill it
with source water when either of the following conditions is met:
1. The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in the spa water exceeds
the source-water TDS by 1,500 ppm or more, OR
2. The Water Replacement Interval (WRI) is less than or
equal to the number of days since the last time the water
was drained. WRI is calculated as shown in the formula
and examples at right:
WRI, days = (1/3) × (Spa Volume, U.S. Gallons)
(No. Bathers/Day)
Example 1
The TDS of the original source water was measured and
recorded to be 800 ppm. The TDS of the spa water now reads
2,500 ppm. The difference is greater than 1,500 ppm (2,500
ppm – 800 ppm = 1,700 ppm). Therefore, the spa should be
drained immediately.
Example 2
Consider a 600 gallon (2.271 kL) spa last drained and refilled
on Sunday evening, with the usage pattern outlined in the
table below:

600 Gallon (2.271 kL) Spa Usage Pattern

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Bathers Water changed at end of day 85 2 19 20 105 100 50

The WRI is computed in the table below and compared to the

interval since the last change. If the Difference (WRI – Days
since last change) is less than or equal to zero, the spa
should be drained.

600 Gallon (2.271 kL) Spa Usage Pattern

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Bathers Water changed at end of day 85 2 19 20 105 100 50

WRI – 2 2 11 5 1 2 1
Difference (WRI minus Days since – 1 0 10 3 –2 1 –1
last change)

Change Water (Difference = <0?) NO YES NO NO YES NO YES

©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-8


L. Testing Frequency
1. Ozone
Standard Minimum Ideal Maximum
All facilities The parameters for sanitizer, pH,
clarity, and water temperature
shall be met at all times.
Exception: when shocking/
oxidizing the pool, when closed
for the season, or similar
activities.
M. Air Quality
All facilities The indoor pool and spa area
should have its own dedicated
ventilation equipment.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Comments
Testing frequency shall be sufficient to ensure that the sanitizer, pH, clarity, and water temperature
(spa) standards set forth in this document are met at all times.
Several factors will determine how often testing is required. Weather, water conditions, facility
design, and bather load are the primary factors for determining how often pools and spas should
be tested. Depending on the facility, testing may be required every 1 or 2 hours during operation.
Rain and wind will introduce materials to the water such as plant debris (leaves, pollen), dirt,
airborne pollutants, and other contaminants that will decrease sanitizer concentrations and
increase the likelihood of chloramines. Rain also tends to decrease pH and alkalinity readings.
After a major rainstorm, sanitizer, pH, and alkalinity should be tested. Bathers introduce
microorganisms and body oils that increase sanitizer demand. Bathers usually will cause a
decrease in pH. If there is a high bather load, particularly in a spa, the sanitizer and pH should be
checked more frequently.
All pools and their related components that are installed in an indoor environment shall comply
with the ventilation requirements of ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1-2007 Ventilation for acceptable indoor
air quality, Table 6-1, “Minimum Ventilation Rates in Breathing Zone,” (Sports and Entertainment
Section).
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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix B
Velocity Limits in APSP Standards
This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

Velocity is the speed at which water moves through

pipe. It is calculated in both feet per second and
centimeters per second. Velocity is used to help
designers select the minimum pipe size for the design
flow rate for a specific application. Increasing the pipe
size while maintaining the same flow rate reduces
velocity in the system (see Figure B).
NOTE: The velocity limits found in the standards listed Figure B: Velocity in different pipe sizes
below are based on maximum design flow rates.
Lower flow rates are allowed and encouraged.

APSP STANDARDS WITH VELOCITY LIMITS ANSI/APSP/ICC-5, 2011 Standard for Residential Inground
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1, 2014 Standard for Public Swimming Pools Swimming Pools
APSP-2, 1999 Standard for Public Spas ANSI/APSP/ICC-7, 2013 Standard for Suction Entrapment
Avoidance
ANSI/APSP-3, 1999 Standard for Permanently Installed
Residential Spas ANSI/APSP/ICC-15 a, 2011 Standard for Residential
Swimming Pool and Spa Energy Efficiency
ANSI/APSP/ICC-4 a, 2012 Standard for Aboveground/Onground
Residential Pools ANSI/APSP-16, 2011 Suction Fittings

TABLE B-1 VELOCITY LIMITS – PUBLIC STANDARDS

Standard Limits / Comments
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 Maximum 10 ft (305 cm) per second for return piping and 6 ft (183 cm) per second for suction piping.
ANSI/APSP-2 To prevent erosion, the velocity in copper piping should never exceed 8 ft (244 cm) per second.
VELOCITY LIMITS – RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS
ANSI/APSP-3 Maximum 8 ft. (244 cm) per second in all piping, suction and return.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-4 a
ANSI/APSP/ICC-5
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
ANSI/APSP/ICC- NOTICE: The velocity limits in ANSI/APSP/ICC-15 a apply to the swimming pool filtration piping only.
15 a Non-filtration piping is subject to the velocity limits in the residential standards listed above.
NOTE: The swimming pool filtration flow rate (6-hour turnover rate, or 36 gpm, whichever is greater) must be calculated to
determine minimum pipe sizes using the velocity limits below. After determining the residential swimming pool capacity in
gallons, use the following formula to determine the filtration flow rate.
Pool gallons ÷ 360 minutes = filtration flow rate
Maximum 8 ft. (244 cm) per second in return filtration piping and 6 ft. (183 cm) per second in suction filtration piping.
The velocity limitations in this standard are intended to reduce the friction loss (resistance) as the water moves through the
filtration system, thereby reducing the amount of energy required to move the water through the system.
NOTE: Pipe sizing to achieve a specific velocity at a given flow rate can be determined by using Table B-2 at right.
VELOCITY LIMITS – SUCTION OUTLET SAFETY STANDARDS
NOTE: Suction outlet safety standards apply to all facilities – Public and Residential.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-7 Velocity limits are no longer specified in this standard, because they are regulated as part of the suction outlet fitting assembly
(drain cover, fastener, and sump) certification process mandated by the 2007 Federal VGB Pool & Spa Safety Act.
APSP/ICC-7 does require conformance with ANSI/APSP-16 standard (below) in all cases.
ANSI/APSP-16 This standard requires product manufacturers to provide the maximum flow rate for each cover, sump, and fitting assembly;
a flow rating that has been tested and certified by an accredited test lab. Because of this, product specific installation
instructions must be followed and including minimum pipe sizes when specified.
NOTE: Every bather-accessible body of water with a circulation system is a candidate for a suction entrapment incident, and
measures must be taken to prevent such an occurrence. Whatever entrapment avoidance methods or systems are employed,
they must be in conformance with the ANSI/APSP/ICC-7 and ANSI/APSP-16 standards.

©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-10

 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Matching the velocity in all system piping achieves
a relative balance of flow on the suction and return
sides of the system. This helps prevent mismatched
systems (i.e., over-pumping and under-piping), which
leads to highly inefficient systems creating high
pressure, excessive noise, vibration, and potentially
decreased equipment life.
Design for Compliance
Velocity limits are found in almost all APSP
standards, either directly or indirectly, through
product flow ratings. Compliance requires
conformance with all applicable standards and for
best results the following sequence is recommended:
1. Design the body of water, and then calculate the
water volume to determine the filtration flow
rate. When applicable, design and specify flow
requirements for all other features, such as therapy
jets, fountains, solar heaters, sanitizers, etc. Using
these design flow rates, use the velocity limits
associated with the applicable APSP design standard
to size all piping.
2. For residential swimming pools:
a) Calculate the pool’s filtration flow rate as described
in Step 1. For recommended pipe velocities in
residential pools, see ANSI/APSP/ICC-5, 2011
Standard for Residential Inground Pools, or most
recent version.
b) Then check the pipe sizing for compliance with
the ANSI/APSP/ICC-15 a, 2013 Standard for
Pool and Spa Energy Efficiency, or most recent
version. It may be necessary to re-size the suction
filtration piping to comply with the lower velocity
limit in this standard. (Table 1 from Standard 15 a
is included below, as Table B-2.)
3. Finally, ensure that all suction outlet fittings, piping
and components, are designed in compliance with
ANSI/APSP/ICC-7, 2013 Standard for Suction
Entrapment Avoidance (or most recent version),
and that the suction outlets, if any, are certified by
a test lab in conformance with the ANSI/APSP-16,
2011 Standard for Suction Fittings (or most recent
version). Compliance with both the ANSI/APSP/
ICC-7 and ANSI/APSP-16 standards requires the
suction system components to have a flow rating
higher than the maximum system flow rate of any
and all installed systems.
NOTE: The standards referenced in Table B-1 all contain
additional requirements beyond piping, flow and
velocity. It is important that you own, understand and
build in compliance with all of the APSP Standards.

TABLE B-2 MAXIMUM FLOW RATES, Schedule 40 and 80 PVC Pipe

Pipe Size (U.S. sizes) 1.5 in. 2 in. 2.5 in. 3 in. 3.5 in. 4 in. 5 in. 6 in.
Nominal gpm @ 6 fps 38 63 90 138 185 238 374 540
Nominal gpm @ 8 fps 51 84 119 184 247 317 499 720
Nominal gpm @ 10 fps 62 103 146 227 303 391 616 890
Table B-2 Metric Equivalent
Pipe Size (U.S. sizes) 38 mm 51 mm 64 mm 76 mm 89 mm 102 mm 127 mm 152 mm
Nominal Lpm @ 183 cps 144 238 341 522 700 901 1416 2044
Nominal Lpm @ 244 cps 193 318 450 697 935 1200 1889 2725
Nominal Lpm @ 305 cps 235 390 553 859 1147 1480 2332 3369

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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Appendix C
Safety Considerations and Warning Recommendations
This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.
In addition to requirements established by the
authority having jurisdiction, The Association of
Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) suggests that
the builders/installers of swimming pools advise
the initial owner/operator of a public pool of the
following:
Warning Recommendations: The APSP suggests
the builder/installer advise the pool owner of the
risk of drowning, especially for children under the
age of five, and the risk of diving into shallow water
in one or more of the following ways: verbally,
through publications or signage. The following are
suggested recommendations:
Lifesaving Equipment: APSP suggests that the builder/
installer advise the pool owner/operator that basic
lifesaving equipment including one or more of the
following items should be on hand at all times:
•A light, strong, rigid pole not less than twelve feet
(12 ft, 3.7 m) long
•A minimum one fourth inch (6 mm) diameter
throwing rope as long as one and one-half (1½)
times the maximum width of the pool or 50 ft
(15.2 m), whichever is less, which has been firmly
attached to a Coast Guard-approved ring buoy
having an outside diameter of approximately
15 in. (381 mm), or some other similar flotation
device.
Safety Considerations for Pool Owner/Operators:
For additional safety information see www.APSP.org.
This standard does not replace good judgment and
personal responsibility. In permitting use of the
pool by others, owners/operators must consider
the skill, attitude, training, and experience of
the expected user. It is the pool owner/operator’s
responsibility to learn, understand, and enforce
these basic safety principles and rules:
•Encourage children to learn how to swim.
•Never allow diving, jumping or sliding into shal-
low water.
•Adequate adult supervision is required when the
pool is in use.
•Adequate adult supervision is always required
when children are present.
•Encourage parents to learn CPR.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-12
•Encourage children to never swim alone.
•Keep all electrical radios, speakers and other
appliances away from the swimming pool.
•Do not allow roughhousing and horseplay.
•Keep deck clean and clear of objects that may cre-
ate a hazard.
•Keep all breakable objects out of the pool area.
•Alcohol consumption and pool activities do not
mix. Never allow anyone to swim, dive or slide
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Do’s and Don’ts for Diving into swimming pools with
manufactured diving equipment, diving rocks, and
stationary diving platforms:
•Do know the shape of the pool bottom and the
water depth before you dive or slide headfirst.
•Do plan you path to avoid submerged obstacles,
surface objects, or other swimmers.
•Do hold your head up, arms up, and steer up with
your hands.
•Do practice carefully before you dive or slide.
•Do test the diving board for its spring before
using.
•Do remember that when you dive down, you must
steer up.
•Do dive straight ahead, not off the side of the div-
ing board.
•Don’t drink and dive.
•Don’t dive or slide headfirst in the shallow part of
the pool.
•Don’t dive from any place that is not specifically
designed for diving .
•Don’t ever dive head first into shallow water
(5 feet / 1.5 m or less).
•Don’t dive across the narrow part of the pool.
•Don’t run and dive.
•Don’t dive from any place that is not specifically
designed for diving.
•Don’t engage in horseplay on diving or sliding
equipment.

•Don’t use diving equipment as a trampoline.
•Don’t do a back dive.
•Don’t try fancy dives; keep the dives simple.
•Don’t dive or slide headfirst at or through objects
such as inner tubes.
•Don’t put diving or sliding equipment on a pool
that wasn’t designed for it.
•Don’t swim or dive alone.
•Don’t dive into unfamiliar bodies of water.
Rules for General Use of Swimming Pool Slides.*
Under all circumstances you should prohibit:
•All headfirst entry from slide.
•Horseplay.
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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
•Any slide entries by non-swimmers into deep
water, to protect them from drowning.
•Standing on the top of a slide or outside the
guardrails.
•Jumping from a slide.
•Diving from a slide.
•Sliding into areas with submerged obstacles,
surface objects, or other swimmers.
•Do not engage in extended breath holding activi-
ties underwater
* Consult safe use instructions of the pool slide
manufacturer.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix D
Layers of Protection
This Foreword is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

Figure D. Layers of Protection for a Public Pool

Base drawing courtesy of Paddock Enterprises, Inc.

Reminder to parents that these “layers” are backups to the primary

means of accident prevention: Responsible Adult Supervision.
1. Emergency pump shut-off 8. Anti-entrapment drain covers and fitting covers
2. Pool rules posted 9. Rope and float lines
3. Backboard 10. Depth markings
4. Hard wired emergency phone 11. Four-way fencing
5. Lifeguard/s on duty 12. Self-closing, self-latching gate
6. Ring buoy with rope, and shepherd’s hook 13. Adult supervision required for children
7. Anti-entrapment: multiple drains, single 14. Restricted access to complex
unblockable drains, or no drains

©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-14

 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix E
Signage Warning Against Shallow Water Diving
This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

Recommended methods to warn against

shallow water diving may include but
are not limited to:
A. Safety Signs
The use of a warning sign as a device
to warn against shallow water diving is
still an open question before the Human
Factors Society and others as to whether
or not signage is an effective means that
will modify human behavior to prevent
accidents.
If warning signs are chosen as a means
to warn against shallow water diving,
the signage should be in compliance
with ANSI-Z535 Series of standards
for safety signs and colors or the latest
revision.
B. Additional Signage Use
The ANSI Z535 Series of Standards
reflects the consensus of various experts
on warning sign appearance and con-
tent. Signage that is consistent with
the ANSI Z535 Standards is permitted
to be added to components, equipment,
facilities or installations, to provide
additional information.
Manufacturers are permitted to either
affix additional signage to their products
or packaging, or to supply the signage
with the product to be affixed at the
time of installation.
Figure E. Examples of No Diving signs

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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix F
Safety Brochures and Education Programs
This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

Consumer awareness information is available on

the following topics:
Children Aren’t Waterproof
Pool and Spa Emergency Procedures for Infants
and Children
Layers of Protection
Plan Your Dive, Steer Up
Entrapment Avoidance Guidelines
The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Inground
Swimming Pool
The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Aboveground
Swimming Pool
The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Hot Tub
Be Safety Aware
These brochures are published by the Association of
Pool & Spa Professionals, and are available at Figure F. APSP safety brochures
www.APSP.org. Click on Safety/Safety Brochures.
permitted to provide such information to owners/
operators and to request or require owners/operators
Safety Education Programs and Materials to sign a statement that they have received, read
and will follow the guidelines.
Educational programs and materials (i.e., semi-
nars, workshops, brochures, videos, instructional APSP
guides, etc.) are available from APSP, other aquatic 2111 Eisenhower Avenue
safety groups, and private firms. As a means of Alexandria, VA 22314
communicating useful safety information to pool www.APSP.org
owners/operators and users, industry members are

©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-16


Appendix G
Use of Elemental Chlorine
This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.
1. General
Chlorine is one of the chemical elements. The gas has
a characteristic odor and greenish yellow color and
is about two and one-half (2 ½) times as heavy as air.
Chlorine is shipped in Department of Transportation
specification steel containers; standard sizes contain
either 100 or 150 pounds (45 or 68 kg) of chlorine. In
the cylinder, the chlorine has both a liquid and a gas
phase. All cylinders are equipped with the Chlorine
Institute standard chlorine cylinder valve.
Chlorine is a “hazardous material” subject to Depart-
ment of Transportation requirements. When used for
pool disinfection, chlorine is considered a pesticide and
as such is subject to pertinent regulations of the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, as well as various
state agriculture and environmental regulations.
Users of chlorine must be trained as to the proper
procedures for handling chlorine and as to appropriate
emergency procedures.
2.  Equipment and Installation breathing apparatus be provided. Respiratory equip-
2.1 Chlorination equipment should be located so that
equipment failure or malfunction will have minimum
effect on evacuation of pool patrons in an emergency.
2.2 Elemental chlorine feeders (chlorinators) should
be activated by a booster pump using recirculated
water supplied via the recirculation system. The
booster pump should be interlocked to the filter pump
to prevent feeding of chlorine when the recirculation
pump is not running.
2.3 The chlorinator, cylinders of chlorine and associ-
ated equipment should be housed in a reasonably
gas-tight and corrosion-resisting housing having a floor
area adequate for the purpose. Cylinders should always
be stored in an upright position and properly secured.
2.4 All enclosures should be located at or above ground
level. The enclosure should be provided with: ducts
from the bottom of the enclosure to the atmosphere
in an unrestricted area, a motor-driven exhaust
fan capable of producing at least one air change per
minute, and louvers of good design near the top of the
enclosure for admitting fresh air. Warning signs
should be posted on the doors. It is recommended that
the doors to the chlorine room should open away from
the pool.
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ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
2.5  Electrical switches for the control of artificial
lighting and ventilation should be on the outside of the
enclosure adjacent to the door.
2.6  Contents of a chlorine cylinder can be determined
only by weight; therefore, facilities should include a
scale suitable for weighing the cylinders. Changing
cylinder(s) should be accomplished only after weighing
proves contents of cylinder to be exhausted. Care must
be taken to prevent water suck-back into the cylinder
when empty, by closing the cylinder valve.
2.7  Connections from the cylinders to the system
depend on the type of chlorinator to be used and should
comply with the chlorinator manufacturer’s recommen-
dation.
2.8  It is recommended that an automatic chlorine leak
detector and alarm be installed in the chlorinator room.
2.9  Respirators approved by the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) should
be provided for protection against chlorine. It is rec-
ommended that at least one approved self-contained
ment should be mounted outside the chlorine enclosure.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) regulations require training and maintenance
programs for respirators.
2.10   Containers may be stored indoors or outdoors.
Full and empty cylinders should be segregated and
appropriately tagged. Storage conditions should: (a)
minimize external corrosion, (b) be clean and free of
trash, (c) not be near an elevator or ventilation system,
(d) be away from elevated temperatures or heat
sources.
3.  Operational Procedures
3.1 A specific person should be made responsible for
chlorination operations and should be trained in the
performance of routine operations including emergency
procedures and leak control procedures.
3.2 Chlorine cylinders must be handled with care.
Valve protection caps and valve outlet caps should be in
place at all times except when the cylinder is connected
for use. Cylinders must not be dropped and should be
protected from falling objects. Cylinders should be used
on a first-in, first-out basis. New, approved washers
should be used each time a cylinder is connected.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
3.3 It is recommended that a safety wall chart be
posted in or near the chlorine enclosure and a second
chart in the pool office near the telephone. Such charts
are available from many suppliers and from the
Chlorine Institute, 1300 Wilson Blvd., Rosslyn, VA
22209. The telephone number of the chlorine supplier
should be shown on this chart.
3.4 Although chlorine suppliers make every effort
to furnish chlorine in properly conditioned cylinders,
chlorine gas leaks may still occur. Pool personnel
should be informed about leak control procedures and
consideration should be given to providing a Chlorine
Institute Emergency Kit A.
3.5 Chlorine suppliers are equipped with a Chlorine
Institute Emergency Kit that contains devices for
capping leaks at cylinder valves and some leaks that
occur in the cylinder wall. Further information on
these kits and training slides demonstrating their use
are available from the Chlorine Institute.
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-18
3.6 As soon as a container is empty, the valve should
be closed and the lines disconnected. The outlet cap
should be applied promptly and the valve protection
hood attached. The open end of the disconnected line
should be plugged or capped promptly to keep atmo-
spheric moisture out of the system.
3.7 To find a chlorine gas leak, use a plastic bottle
containing 26E BE Ammonia capable of releasing only
vapors when squeezed. A white cloud will result if
there is any chlorine leakage. Never use water on a
chlorine leak.
For additional information, contact The Chlorine
Institute, Inc., 1300 Wilson Blvd., Rosslyn, VA 22209,
(703) 741-5760, and request a copy of the Chlorine
Manual and the wall chart entitled “Handling
Chlorine Cylinders & Ton Containers.”
 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix H
Suction Entrapment Warning
This Foreword is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

A-19 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014
Appendix I
English Standard-Metric Conversion Tables
(Approximate Factors)
This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.
Symbol When You Know Multiply by To Find Symbol
LENGTH
in. inches 2.54 centimeters cm
ft. feet 30.48 centimeters cm
yd. yards 0.914 meters m
mi. miles 1.609 kilometers km
AREA
in2 square inches 6.45 sq. centimeters cm2
ft2 square feet 0.09 square meters m2
yd2 square yards 0.836 square meters m2
mi2 square miles 2.59 sq. kilometers km2
acres 0.4 hectares ha
MASS
oz. ounces 28.35 grams g
lb. pounds 0.45 kilograms kg
short tons (2000 lb.) 0.9 metric tons t
VOLUME
tsp. teaspoons 5 milliliters mL
Tsp. tablespoons 15 milliliters mL
in3 cubic inches 16 milliliters mL
fl.oz. fluid ounces 30 milliliters mL
c. cups 0.24 liters L
pt. pints 0.47 liters L
qt. quarts 0.95 liters L
gal. gallons 3.8 liters L
ft.3 cubic feet 0.03 cubic meters m3
yd.3 cubic yards 0.76 cubic meters m3
TEMPERATURE (See also below)
°F degrees Fahrenheit 5/9 degrees Celsius °C
(after subtracting 32)
-20°F
-10°F
10°F
20°F
30°F
40°F
50°F
60°F
0°F
-30°C
-20°C
-10°C
0°C
10°C
©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals A-20
Symbol When You Know Multiply by To Find Symbol
LENGTH
mm millimeters 0.04 inches in.
cm centimeters 0.39 inches in.
m meters 3.28 feet ft.
m meters 1.09 yards yd.
km kilometers 0.62 miles mi.
AREA
cm2 sq.centimeters 0.155 square inches in2
m2 square meters 10.76 square feet ft2
m2 square meters 1.196 square yards yd2
km2 sq.kilometers 0.386 square miles mi2
ha hectares (10,000 m2) 2.47 acres
MASS
g grams 0.035 ounces oz.
kg kilograms 2.2 pounds lb.
t metric ton (1,000 kg) 1.1 short tons
VOLUME
mL milliliters 0.06 cubic inches in3
mL milliliters 0.03 fluid ounces fl.oz.
L liters 2.1 pints pt.
L liters 1.06 quarts qt.
L liters 0.26 gallons gal.
m3 cubic meters 35 cubic feet ft3
m3 cubic meters 1.3 cubic yards yd3
TEMPERATURE
°C degrees Celsius 9/5 degrees °F
(then Fahrenheit add 32)
Degrees Fahrenheit
100°F
110°F
120°F
130°F
70°F
80°F
90°F
20°C
30°C
40°C
50°C
Degrees Celsius
 ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

Appendix J
Sources of Material
This Foreword is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014. It is included for information only.

ACI American Concrete Institute IAPMO International Association of Plumbing &

38800 Country Club Drive Mechanical Officials
Farmington Hills, MI 48331 4755 E. Philadelphia Street
Tel: 248-848-3800 Ontario CA 91761
www.concrete.org Tel: 909-472-4100
ANSI American National Standards Institute ICC International Code Council
25 West 43rd Street 4051 W. Flossmoor Road
New York NY 10036 Country Club Hills, IL 60478-5795
Tel: 212-642-4900 Tel: 888-422-7233
Fax: 212-398-0023 www.iccsafe.org
www.ansi.org
NCAA National Collegiate Athletic Association
APSP Association of Pool & Spa Professionals PO Box 6222
(formerly National Spa and Pool Institute) Indianapolis, IN 46206-6222
2111 Eisenhower Avenue Tel: 317-917-6222
Alexandria VA 22314 www.ncaa.org
Tel: 703-838-0083
NEC National Electrical Code (see NFPA)
Fax: 703-549-0493
www.APSP.org NFPA National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Quincy MA 02269
3 Park Avenue
Tel: 617-770-3000
New York NY 10016
212-591-8562 NFSH National Federation of State High School
www.asme.org Associations
PO Box 690
ASTM International Standards Worldwide
Indianapolis, IN 46206
(formerly American Society of Testing & Materials)
Tel: 317-972-6900
100 Barr Harbor Drive
www.NSHF.org
West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959
Tel: 610-832-9500 NSF NSF International
Fax: 610-832-9555 (formerly National Sanitation Foundation)
www.astm.org 789 N. Dixboro Rd.
P.O. Box 130140
CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Ann Arbor MI 48113-0140
4330 East West Highway
Tel: 734-769-8010
Bethesda, MD 20814
Tel: 800-638-2772 UL Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
Fax: 301-504-0124 and 301-504-0025 333 Pfingsten Road
www.cpsc.gov Northbrook IL 60062-2096
Tel: 847-272-8800
FINA Fédération Internationale de Natation
Fax: 877-272-8129
Avenue de I’Avant-Poste 4
www.ul.com
1005 Lausanne, SWITZERLAND
Tel: (41) 21-310-4710
www.FINA.org

(Approved by the American National Standards Institute August 28, 2013)

A-21 ©2014 The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
ANSI/APSP/ICC-1 2014

American National Standard for

Public Swimming Pools

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builds, manufactures, sells, or services pools, spas or hot tubs.

2111 Eisenhower Avenue

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703.838.0083
memberservices@APSP.org
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