454.1.9.6 Zero Depth Entry Pools

Zero depth entry pools shall have a continuous floor slope from the water edge to 3 feet (914 mm) of water depth at which point the slope can transition to another, less steep continuous slope. Floating safety ropes and slope transition markings are not required at this transition point.

The deck level perimeter overflow system with grate shall be provided at the water's edge across the entire zero depth portion of the pool. Zero entry grate must be 8 to 12 inches wide, slip resistant, and constructed for intended purpose of submersion in water and exposure to UV sunlight.

The pool deck may slope toward the pool for no more than 7 feet (2133 mm), as measured from the overflow system grate outward. Beyond this area the deck shall slope away from the pool in accordance with Section 454.1.2.2.3.

"No Entry, Shallow Water" signs shall be provided along the pool wall edge where the water depth is less than 3 feet (914 mm) deep. No entry signs shall be slip-resistant, shall have 4-inchhigh (102 mm) letters, shall be located within 2 feet (610 mm) of the pool edge and shall be spaced no more than 15 feet (4572 mm) apart.

Additional inlets shall be provided in areas of less than 18 inches (457 mm) deep. The numbers and location shall be such as to double the flow rate into this area.

The recirculation-filtration system shall be of a minimum of one turnover every 2 hours in the area of the pool that is 3 feet (914 mm) deep or less. In the remainder of the pool where the depth is greater than 3 feet (914 mm), the system shall have a maximum 6 hour turnover rate. The design plans submitted by the applicant shall provide the volume of water in the pool area of 3 feet (914 mm) depth and less, the volume of water in the pool area greater than 3 feet (914 mm) in depth and the total volume in the pool for determination of minimum circulation flow. The volume calculations shall provide verification that the correct volume of water is used to determine the minimum flow at the 2-hour and the 6-hour flow requirements.

Those portions of the zero depth entry pool, where the water depth will not allow for the proper installation of underwater lighting, shall be provided with 6 footcandles (60 lux) of lighting on the deck and the water.

Play structures in a zero depth entry area [in depth 0—3 feet (0 to 914 mm)] may be within 15 feet (4572 mm) of the pool walls, but shall comply with sound engineering requirements for the safety of pool patrons.