therapy pool accessibility

[burnsarchitect]

Would a therapy pool in a doctor's office (something like an "Endless Pool")

be required to have an ADA approved lift similar to that required for public pools?

I found the pool accessibility requirements in the "recreational facilities" portions of the codes,

but do not see anything for a therapy pool...

Are all pools considered "recreational" regardless of their location and use?

This is in the state of PA, so I believe ANSI A117.1 (2009) applies.

Thanks!

 

[steveray]

I wouldn't imagine so, because it is a piece of equipment that would be very common to need assistance into....It is not an open pool that you could use at any time by yourself....Good Question!

 

[ADAguy]

Self use of this equipment by the doctors staff after hours (an attractive nuisence?) is a bit of a reach but possible.

Then again, it is not publicly accessible.

 

[burnsarchitect]

Thanks for your help!

It looks like the therapy pool will have a lift, so I just had to determine what type of lift would be required.

I spoke with the ADA and they clarified that (in this instance) any lift installed should meet the requirements for an accessible lift "under the ADA" if the lift is ever to be used independently. If the lift is to be used with assistance at all times (by doctor's staff), then the requirements are not as stringent.