The DOJ addresses some of the swimming pool questions associated with the new ADA req

[mark handler]

pools_2010.pdf (263 KB, 5 downloads)

http://www.ada.gov/pools_2010.htm

New mandate for hotel owners: Install pool lifts

ADA requirement ensures equal access to pools and spas for disabled guests

Sacramento Business Journal by Mark Anderson, Staff Writer

Date: Friday, February 3, 2012, 3:00am PST

Mark Anderson

Staff Writer - Sacramento Business Journal

New federal requirements put some hotel and motel operators in a tough spot: They must install expensive lifts for the disabled or shut their swimming pools.

As of March 15, “public accommodations,” which include hotels and timeshares, will have to provide disabled access to swimming pools and spas. Failing to comply will expose operators to expensive litigation under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The ADA requirement comes during a challenging time for Sacramento hoteliers, who haven’t yet seen a rebound in average room rates or occupancy levels since the recession.

“These lifts are not inexpensive,” said Randi Knott, vice president ...

Continues

http://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/print-edition/2012/02/03/mandate-hotel-owners-install-pool-lifts.html

 

[mjesse]

I just fielded a call this week regarding the use of a portable lift. (allowable)

Good info, thanks.

mj

 

[Big Mac]

1009.2.7 Operation. The lift shall be capable of unassisted operation from both the deck and water levels. Controls and operating mechanisms shall be unobstructed when the lift is in use and shall comply with 309.4.

Advisory 1009.2.7 Operation. Pool lifts must be capable of unassisted operation from both the deck and water levels. This will permit a person to call the pool lift when the pool lift is in the opposite position. It is extremely important for a person who is swimming alone to be able to call the pool lift when it is in the up position so he or she will not be stranded in the water for extended periods of time awaiting assistance. The requirement for a pool lift to be independently operable does not preclude assistance from being provided.

How could a portable lift satisfy the provision noted above that requires the lift to be usable without assistance. Portable often times means missing, either off premises, in storage, or at a different location. I have had requests to grant one lift for a pool and a spa, assuming the lift could be moved from one location to another. Those requests have been denied, unless it can be mounted permanently in a location that can serve both facilites. So far, i have not seen a desing adequate to serve more than one facility at the same time.