S.C. Code Regs. § § 61-51.C

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 11, November 22, 2024

Section 61-51.C - GENERAL CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS

1. Applicability. Requirements of this section are applicable to all new construction and alterations of existing public swimming pools. All work must be performed in accordance with good engineering practice and recognized industry standards.

2. Water Supply. All water used in public swimming pools, drinking fountains, bathhouse, or minimum toilet facilities, must be supplied from a Public Drinking Water System.

(a) Water for filling pools shall be supplied by a fillspout that is located at least 2 diameters of the fillspout above the rim of the swimming pool or an above the rim supply to the surge tank, whereby no arrangements exist which, under any condition, permits contaminated water to re-enter the potable water system. The fillspout must be located adjacent (no greater than six (6) inches away) to a ladder or under a handrail or diving board and extend to the edge of the coping and not more than one (1) inch past the edge of the coping. All fillspouts must be of chrome plated brass, stainless steel, or other equivalent material approved by the Department.

(b) Where a fillspout is not employed, an approved double check valve assembly in the line supplying water to the pool shall be used. The device must be installed in a location which is accessible for visual inspection and for testing and/or repair. The double check valve assembly must be tested by a certified tester after installation and before use by the customer as required by the South Carolina State Primary Drinking Water Regulations61-58. Each device used must be from the approved list of backflow prevention devices issued by the Department. The municipality or water utility which supplies the facility and the Department shall be provided a copy of the test results. Kiddie pools may be filled via a hose bibb if it is protected by an ASSE 1024 listed residential dual check or other Department approved backflow prevention device.

3. Sanitary Sewage. The disposition of sanitary sewage from the bathhouse or minimum toilet facilities must be into a sanitary sewer, a septic tank or other waste treatment facility which has been approved by the Department.

4. Location. The location of the pool will in no way hinder the operation for which it is designed nor adversely affect bather's safety or water quality. Outdoor pools must not be located where they will be exposed to excessive pollution by dust, smoke, soot, or other undesirable substances. If any portion of the pool is located within ten (10) feet horizontally of any second story balcony or any other elevated structure of which the floor elevation is between two (2) and thirty (30) feet above the pool deck, a protective barrier must be provided on said balcony or elevated structure. This barrier must be a minimum of five (5) feet in height and have no openings within this barrier greater than 4 inches in width. Buildings or structures at the pool deck level only within ten (10) feet of the pool waterline that have glazing must utilize tempered safety glass or other shatter resistant safety glazing for any doors and windows. All indoor pools must be located in adequately ventilated areas.

5. Material and Finish.

(a) Public swimming pool shells must be constructed of reinforced concrete or other structurally sound material equivalent in strength and durability, designed and built to withstand anticipated stresses, and designed and built of watertight construction with smooth and impervious surfaces. If a pool structure is to be lined with a dissimilar material, the two materials must be continually and permanently bonded so as not to separate at any time or place. American Concrete Institute standards must be used in design and construction of reinforced concrete including gunite, shotcrete and other types of acceptable concrete. No vinyl lined pools or spas are allowed.

(b) A moderately smooth, non-slip white or light colored water proof finish, which will withstand repeated brushing, scrubbing and cleaning procedures, must line the pool. Paint, fiberglass, or epoxy coated finishes shall be non-toxic, water-resistant, of one single very light color, and must continually and permanently bond so as not to separate at any time. Colors must have reflectance of fifty-five percent or greater except for logos. All corners and edges shall be rounded and smooth to prevent cuts or abrasions to swimmers. All corners and all junctions of walls and floor must be rounded with a minimum six (6) inch radius. Any variation of this required six (6) inch radius must be approved on an individual basis.

(c) A minimum six (6) inch glazed frost proof tile or other easily cleanable surface must be placed at the normal water line.

(d) Logos or extraneous writing or materials shall be approved on an individual basis. Color, size and pattern of logos shall not be such as to obscure the existence or presence of objects or persons within the pool.

6. Pool Decks.

(a) The deck must be continuous around the public swimming pool and unobstructed, with minimum widths as follows:

(i) Type "A" six (6) feet

(ii) Type "B" four (4) feet; Type "B" pools over 1600 square feet, six (6) feet.

(iii) Type "C" four (4) feet

(iv) Type "D" (less than 700 square feet) at least two (2) feet around one hundred percent or four (4) feet around at least fifty percent of the facility. Type "D" (700 square feet to 1600 square feet) at least four (4) feet. Type "D" (greater than 1600 square feet) at least six (6) feet.

(v) Type "E" flumes, slides and lazy rivers ten (10) feet around the exit of the landing pool, four (4) feet around the starting pool. All other Type "E" pools are required to have a minimum of six (6) feet.

(vi) Type "F". Deck widths for Type "F" pools will be determined depending on the use of each pool.

(b) Pool decks required in (a) above must be constructed of broom finish concrete or other material which is as equal in strength and durability. The deck must be non-slip, impervious and no hazard to bare feet. The deck must slope The deck must slope one-quarter (1/4) inch to five-eighths (5/8) inches per foot per foot away from the pool. No wood decking or carpet is allowed within the required minimum deck widths. If concrete pavers are used for pool decking, they must be installed per the Interlocking Concrete Paver Institute (ICPI) code.

(c) A minimum of three (3) feet of deck width must be provided on the sides and rear of any piece of diving or sliding equipment, lifeguard chairs, ladders and handrails. Poolside tables and chairs or other equipment must not obstruct the deck areas within the minimum widths listed for each type pool.

(d) All corners and edges of deck or coping must be smooth and round so as to not cause cuts or abrasions to swimmers. The top of the pool wall must be uniformly level and designed with bull-nosed coping or some other acceptable means by which an adequate handhold is provided around the entire pool perimeter.

(e) All deck drainage must be "to waste" and not be filtered and returned to the pool. Deck drains must be installed where necessary to prevent standing water on the deck. The deck drain grates shall be removable or provide for other means so as to facilitate the cleaning of the drains.

(f) Hose bibbs must be provided around the perimeter of the deck area at intervals such that all parts of the deck can be reached with a one hundred (100) foot hose. A hose bibb may be located in the equipment room. All hose bibbs in the pool area must be isolated from the public water supply by an ASSE 1024 listed residential dual check or other Department approved backflow prevention device. If a common ASSE 1024 listed residential dual check valve is installed, it must be located in either the equipment room, or in a valve box such that it can be maintained and or replaced as necessary. Also, a shutoff valve must be installed downstream of the backflow device so the Department can verify that all hose bibs are protected by the common backflow device. All backflow devices must be installed so that they are visible at the time of the final inspection.

(g) All outdoor pools shall be provided with a foot rinse shower at major entrance points, up to a maximum of three (3). The foot rinse shower must be located within twenty (20) feet of the corresponding entrance point.

(h) Up to ten percent (10%) of the pool perimeter may be obstructed. Obstructions shall have the required minimum deck width behind or through them within fifteen (15) feet of the water. These obstructions must be protected by a barrier or must be designed to discourage patron access. When an obstruction exists in multiple areas around the pool the minimum distance between obstructions shall be four (4) feet.

7. Depth Markers. Permanent depth markers must be plainly marked at or above the water surface on the vertical pool wall and on the edge of the coping or deck next to the pool, at a maximum and minimum point and at not more than two (2) foot intermediate increments of depth. Depth markers must also meet the following requirements:

(a) Depth markers must be spaced at not more than twenty five (25) foot intervals on center, as measured around the perimeter of the pool.

(b) A minimum of three (3) sets of evenly spaced depth markers are required for Type "C" and "D" pools.

(c) One set of markers must be located adjacent to the steps or handrail.

(d) Depth markers must be in numerals and letters of four (4) inch minimum height and of a light-colored background (that is, having a reflectance of fifty-five (55) percent or greater) with dark, contrasting lettering. Alternative designs, having sufficient contrast, will be considered on case-by-case basis.

(e) Depth markers must be accurate to within three (3) inches at normal operating level

(f) The abbreviation "ft." or word "feet" must be included.

(g) A total of twelve (12) inches of white background tile must be included as part of each depth marker(s).

(h) Depth markers are required for all pools, kiddie pools, spas, hot tubs, special water park pools, etc. Kiddie spray decks do not require depth markers.

(i) Depth markers on the deck must be non-slip and must start within fifteen (15) inches of the pool edge.

(j) In pools requiring "No Diving" signs, a single six inch by six inch universal no diving tile must be co-located with each set of deck depth marker tiles.

(k) Metric depth markers may be installed at any facility in addition to the standard markers required above.

(l) Depth markers for pools with multiple slopes (bowl shaped and diving wells) must accurately reflect the minimum depth at the edge of the pool and the maximum depth at the center of the pool and separated by a hyphen. For example, a pool sloping from all sides to the center would require the installation of the following depth markers, "3 FT - 5 FT".

(m) Alternative types of depth markers will be considered on a case by case basis for pools using stainless steel gutters or fiberglass shells.

(n) Depth markers shall be verified by measuring the depth at a distance of two (2) feet from the edge of the pool.

8. Fences.

(a) All outdoor Type "A" and "E" public swimming pools (including the deck area) must be enclosed by a chain link fence or equal barrier of minimum six (6) foot height to prevent trespassing and to provide safety and cleanliness of the water. Type B and Type E pools that have a slide that is only in use when lifeguards are present must have the entry and exit points of the slide secured by either a six (6) foot high fence, or another method approved by the Department. All openings in the barrier must be equipped with gates or doors, with latches, that close automatically and can be locked. No openings in the fence shall be large enough for a four (4) inch sphere to pass. Local building codes for the pool location may require a smaller fence opening.

(b) All outdoor Type "B", "C", "D" and "F" public swimming pools (including the deck area) shall be enclosed by a minimum four foot fence as measured from the exterior of the pool area. All openings in the barrier must be equipped with gates or doors, with latches, that close and latch automatically and can be locked. Courtyard fencing may not be adequate to constitute fencing of the pool area. No openings in the fence shall be large enough for a four (4) inch sphere to pass. Local building codes for the pool location may require a smaller fence opening.

9. Equipment Room.

(a) A suitable equipment room shall be provided to house all pool equipment to prevent unauthorized access. The room shall be of substantial and enduring construction to protect the equipment from damp, corrosive environment. This room shall have a roof, be at least eight (8) feet high and have a standard size lockable entrance door. Where equipment rooms are constructed at a different elevation than the surroundings, permanent steps should be provided for entry. The equipment room must be sized so that all equipment is accessible for ease of operation and inspection. The equipment room door must be sized to allow for the largest filter in the room to pass through. At least three feet of clear walkway must be provided to allow access to the equipment. The room must have at least one (1) watt of artificial light for each square foot of floor area with a minimum of 100 watts incandescent, or equivalent. Continuously operated forced ventilation must be provided during pool operation so that the equipment room has a minimum of ten (10) complete air changes per hour and is vented to the outside and away from the pool. The light switch must be separate from the fan switch if a fan switch is provided. The floor shall be concrete and shall include necessary sumps. The floors must be sloped to drain to either floor drains or to the sump. All sump pits must be provided with a protective grate or covering capable of supporting a person. Sump pits that are protected by walls extending three (3) feet or more above the floor elevation do not have to have a protective grate. The purpose of this room is for recirculation system equipment only and storage of any other material or equipment is prohibited. Equipment rooms constructed below grade must be provided with reasonable access so as not to be considered a confined space. An emergency disconnect (e.g. shunt trip breaker) switch that disconnects all pumps in the equipment room must be located on the pool deck and clearly labeled with a minimum of four (4) inch red letters on a white background that states "Pool Emergency Cut-Off Switch".

(b) A suitable alternative to the above room will be considered on a case by case basis as long as the pool equipment is protected from a damp and corrosive environment, vandalism, and has adequate access for maintenance.

(c) All equipment must be installed per the manufacturer's recommendations, including equipment clearances.

10. Chemical Storage. All pool chemicals must be housed in a separate room from the equipment room. The chemical storage room must have at least one (1) watt of artificial light for each square foot of floor area with a minimum of 100 watts incandescent or equivalent light. Continuously operated forced ventilation must be provided so that the chemical storage room has a minimum of ten (10) complete air changes per hour and is vented to the outside. The light switch must be separate from the fan switch if a fan switch is provided. The pool chemical room must be kept dry and locked at all times. Only chemicals used in the operation of the pool shall be stored in this room. Chemical storage rooms constructed below grade must be provided with reasonable access so as not to be considered a confined space.

11. Drinking Fountain. At least one (1) drinking fountain shall be provided within fifty (50) feet of the pool at all public pools. All electrical drinking water fountain wiring must be in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).

12. Emergency Notification Device. A toll free emergency notification device to notify emergency personnel must be provided within a two hundred (200) foot walking distance of the pool and in a location that it is easily accessible during the hours that the pool is in operation. Only permanently-mounted notification devices are acceptable to the Department. Mobile, voice over internet, or cordless telephones are not an acceptable alternative to permanently-mounted emergency notification devices. The physical address of the pool must be displayed at the emergency notification phone or device in a manner that is permanent and weather resistant.

13. Bathhouse Facilities. Dressing and sanitary plumbing facilities must be provided for all Type "A" and "E" public swimming pools that charge for admission. Bathhouse facilities shall be located within two hundred (200) feet of the swimming pool. Applicable Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines shall be observed. Every bathhouse must be provided with separate facilities for each sex with no inter-connection between the male and female facilities. The rooms must be so developed and planned that good sanitation can be maintained throughout the building at all times.

(a) Minimum Fixtures. Minimum sanitary plumbing fixtures for Type "A" and "E" pools must be provided as follows:

(i) Males. One (1) water closet, one (1) lavatory, and one (1) urinal for the first one-hundred (100) male swimmers, or major fraction thereof. One (1) additional water closet, lavatory and urinal must be provided for each additional two hundred (200) male swimmers or major fraction thereof. A minimum of two (2) showers for the first one hundred (100) male swimmers and one (1) shower for each additional fifty (50) male swimmers or major fraction thereof.

(ii) Females. A minimum of two (2) water closets and one (1) lavatory for the first one hundred (100) female swimmers, or major fraction thereof. Two (2) additional water closets and one (1) lavatory must be provided for each additional two hundred (200) female swimmers or major fraction thereof. A minimum of two (2) showers for the first one-hundred (100) female swimmers and one (1) shower for each additional fifty (50) female swimmers or major fraction thereof.

(b) Hose Bibbs. Hose bibbs located at least ten (10) inches above the floor must be provided for washing down the dressing rooms and bathhouse interior. Each hose bibb must be provided with an ASSE 1024 listed residential dual check or other Department approved backflow prevention device.

(c) Floors. The floors of the bathhouse must be of impervious material, relatively smooth but not a slick finish, to ensure complete cleaning. Floor drains must be installed and must be a minimum of four (4) inches in diameter to ensure positive drainage of all parts of the building, with a slope in the floor of not less than one-fourth (1/4) inch per foot, toward the drains. Carpet shall not be used on bathhouse floors.

(d) Materials and Finish. Materials and finishes used in bathhouses and/or restrooms are subject to approval by the Department. All screen, shower, toilet and dressing room booth partitions must be made of durable materials not subject to damage by water and must be so designed that each area can be adequately drained.

(e) Steps. No steps will be allowed in the interior of any dressing rooms.

(f) Light and Ventilation. Showers and dressing room areas must be furnished with one (1) watt of incandescent light for each square foot of floor area and have adequate ventilation.

(g) Soap Dispensers. Soap dispensers for providing either liquid or powdered soap must be provided at each lavatory or between each pair of lavatories. Soap dispensers providing either liquid or powdered soap must be provided at each shower head or between each pair of shower heads.

(h) Mirrors. Mirrors, if provided, must be shatter-resistant.

(i) Toilet Paper Holders. Toilet paper holders must be provided at each water closet.

(j) Tempered Water. Tempered water only must be provided at all shower heads. Water heater and thermostatic mixing valves must be inaccessible to bathers and must be capable of providing two (2) gallons per minute of water to each shower head. The temperature of the water must not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and must have an automatic cut-off thermostat set at 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

(k) Towels. Single service paper towel dispensers or blower type hand dryers must be provided.

14. Minimum Toilet Facilities.

(a) Minimum toilet facilities shall be provided within a three hundred (300) foot walking distance of Type "B", "C", "D", "F" pools and Type "A" and "E" facilities that do not charge for admission. Minimum toilet facilities must consist of at least one (1) lavatory and one (1) water closet for each sex. Floors must be of impervious materials and relatively smooth, but not have a slick finish. Each room must be furnished with a minimum of 60 watts of incandescent light and have adequate ventilation. Soap dispensers for providing either liquid or powdered soap must be provided at each lavatory or between each pair of lavatories. Mirrors, if provided, must be made of shatter-resistant material. Single service paper towel dispensers or blower type hand dryers must be provided. Toilet paper holders must be provided at each water closet. Floors must be well drained to prevent standing water. Carpet shall not be used on the floors.

(b) Minimum toilet facilities are not required if all living units are within a three hundred (300) foot walking distance of the nearest water's edge and are each equipped with private facilities.

15. Filtration System.

(a) Diatomite Filters. Filters must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation Foundation. Filters may be of either pressure or vacuum type. The filter rate must not exceed two (2) gallons per minute per square foot of filter surface area. Provisions must be made for backwashing the filter at not less than two (2) gallons per minute per square foot of filter surface area. The filter(s) must be provided with pressure or vacuum gauges for determining the need for backwashing and sight glass to determine when backwash is clear.

(b) High Rate Sand Filters. Filters must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). The filter rate may not exceed fifteen (15) gallons per minute per square foot of filter surface area. A higher rate may be allowed if approved by the NSF. Provisions must be made for backwashing the filter(s) at the manufacturer's recommended backwash rate. The filter(s) must be provided with pressure gauges for determining the need for backwashing, backwash sight glass, and air-relief device.

(c) Cartridge Filters. Filters must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation Foundation. The filters must be of a disposable or washable element. Surface types must have a maximum flow rate of 0.375 gallons per minute for each square foot of effective filter area. A spare cartridge filter must be provided at each site where these types of filters are used. A sump pit and or hard piped drain line must be installed to handle the design flow rate of the recirculation system. If connected to a sanitary sewer system or municipal separate storm sewer system, specific approval must be obtained from the municipality or sewer authority for such discharge.

(d) Other Filters. The National Sanitation Foundation and/or the Department must approve any filters other than those described above before they can be considered for use in the recirculation system for public swimming pools.

16. Filter Backwash. Backwash from the filter(s) must be piped to a disposal pit, tile field, or other disposal method approved by the Department. If the backwash water is to be discharged to a sanitary sewer system or municipal separate storm sewer system, specific approval must be obtained from the municipality or sewer authority for such discharge. If the method of backwash will be to an on-site storm sewer system, the location of the discharge and the name and distance of any receiving body of water must be identified on the project plans. Any discharge of backwash water to a water body must receive prior approval from the Department. All pools that directly discharge backwash water to waters of the State or stocked ponds must be equipped with an appropriately sized dechlorination device. If the method of backwash disposal will be to a pit or tile field, the location of discharge must be identified on the project plans and the receptacle must be adequately sized to accept the pool drainage. Also, a three (3) minute backwash cycle must be conducted at the time of the final inspection to ensure that there is adequate capacity of the disposal system. A minimum six (6) inch air gap must be maintained at the discharge point or two (2) single in-line check valves must be installed in the backwash line. The receptacle must be sufficiently sized to accommodate the backwash flow.

17. Pool Drainage. The method and location of discharge employed to drain the pool must be included on the project plans and the receptacle must be adequately sized to accept the pool drainage. If the pool drains to a sanitary sewer system or municipal separate storm sewer system, specific approval must be obtained from the municipality or sewer authority for such discharge.

18. Rate of Flow Indicator. Every public swimming pool must be provided with a rate of flow indicator located on the discharge line from the filters. Rate of flow indicators must be accurate to +" or - 5% and installed according to manufacturer's instructions. Dimensions must be shown on the schematic diagram, indicating the actual location of the rate of flow indicator. The rate of flow indicator must be calibrated for and provided with a scale reading in gallons per minute and shall have an upper range at least ten (10) percent above the maximum design flow rate. The scale resolution of the meter must fall within the design flow of the system. The activating element of the flow indicators must be installed in the filter effluent line. The flow meter must be mounted in a location such that it can be easily read.

19. Heater. Heaters, where used, shall be installed and operated in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and local building codes to include proper ventilation. The heater design must be such that it will not affect the minimum required design flowrate. A thermostat control must be provided with an automatic cut-off for an upper limit of 104 degrees Fahrenheit and above. Solar panels may be used as a pool heater provided that the materials used in the solar panels must be non-toxic and acceptable for use with potable water. Data verifying the material is non-toxic must be submitted to the department for review and approval at the time the application is made. Pools equipped with solar panel heaters shall have a fixed thermometer mounted in the pool recirculation line downstream from the heater outlet. All equipment and appurtenance used to operate a solar panel heater must meet the applicable portions of R.61-51.

20. Pump and Motor. Pumps and motors under five (5) horsepower must be National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) approved or must be equally listed by a Testing Lab approved by the Department. The pump and motor must be of adequate size and capacity to provide the required pool turnover rate and should be located so as to eliminate the need for priming. If pump or suction piping is located above the overflow level of the pool, the pump must be self-priming. The pump and motor must be designed to supply, without overloading, the required design rate at a total dynamic head sufficient to overcome the friction losses in the piping, appurtenances, and the maximum headloss through the filter(s). Unless headloss calculations are provided by the designing engineer, pump design must be based on an assumed total dynamic head of fifty five (55) feet of water. All pumps must be provided with a corrosion-resistant strainer to remove solids, debris, hair, lint, etc. Pool pump motors must have a directly accessible on/off switch within three (3) feet horizontal distance of the pump(s). Pump(s) shall not be activated by a panel circuit breaker. All pumps shall be installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC). A device for regulating the rate of flow may be provided in the recirculation pump discharge piping.

21. Water Treatment. Equipment for halogen disinfection (chlorine, bromine) must be provided on all pools. This equipment must be approved by and bear the seal of the National Sanitation Foundation. The equipment must be of such capacity to feed one (1) pound of free available chlorine per ten-thousand (10,000) gallons of pool volume per twenty-four (24) hour period in all pools. The equipment must be operable at all times that the recirculation system is in operation. This equipment must be installed in accordance with the approved manufacturer's instructions. The equipment manufacturer's name and model number of chemical feeder, as well as the size and number of feeding tanks must be furnished. All chemical feed pumps must be wired directly to the recirculation pump such that when recirculation flow stops chemical feed is halted. GAS CHLORINATION IS NOT PERMITTED. No chemical may be manually fed while the pool is open for operation. Supplemental water treatment systems may be approved on a case by case basis. Chemical feed containers for use with liquid feed systems, in excess of fifteen (15) gallons, must be provided with spill containment and must be clearly labeled. A detailed drawing must be included on the project plans. Ultraviolet (UV) or ozone disinfection may be added to any pool in addition to the minimum required disinfection.

22. Separate System. Each individual pool constructed must have its own pump, motor, filter, disinfection equipment, piping, etc., such that it is a complete unit and not dependent upon any other recirculation system, except as provided otherwise in these regulations. Separate recirculation systems are required for indoor-outdoor pools with a separate and independent system for both the indoor and outdoor bodies of water.

23. Automatic Controller. If an automatic controller is to be used, the device must be installed in accordance with the approved manufacturer's instructions. The chemical feed pump(s) must also be directly wired to the recirculation pump and a flow switch such that when the recirculation flow stops, the chemical feed pumps are switched off. Other alternatives that provide redundancy will be considered by the Department on a case-by-case basis.

24. Piping.

(a) The determination of sizes of pipe, fittings, and valves on the complete main pump suction line from the swimming pool must be based upon a rate of friction loss for piping of not more than six (6) feet per one-hundred (100) feet based upon the Hazen-Williams formula using the following "C" values:

Iron Pipe: c =	100
Copper Pipe: c =	120
PVC Pipe: c =	150

(b) All piping on the discharge side of the pump for filtration and to the point for discharge of backwash water from the filter plant must have pipe sizes determined on a basis for friction losses which must not be more than twelve (12) feet per one-hundred (100) feet using "C" values given above.

(c) If PVC pipe is used it must be schedule 40 or greater, the chart below lists the maximum flow allowable in gallons per minute (gpm) for the indicated pipe sizes at 6'/100' suction loss and 12'/100' pressure loss for schedule 40 PVC plumbing.

Pipe Sizes in Inches	Suction at 6'/100' (flow in gpm)	Pressure at 12'/100' (flow in gpm)
1 1/2 "	27	39
2"	57	83
2 1/2 "	105	150
3"	165	245
4"	355	510
5"	640	925
6"	1000	1500

(d) All piping must be hydrostatically tested under pressure prior to being covered by earth, deck or pool structure. Minimum pressure for testing shall be thirty (30) psi or one and one half (1 1/2) times the normal operating pressure on the return line, whichever is greater. Pressure must be maintained constant for two (2) hours. PVC pipe must be approved by the American National Standards Institute/National Sanitation Foundation or other laboratory acceptable to the Department with the ANSI/NSF or equal designated seal on each section of pipe. Only SD 26 Class 160 and SD 21 Class 200 PVC pipe meeting ASTM Standard D1785 or D2241 are acceptable in sizes twelve (12) inches and smaller. No heat bending of PVC pipe is allowed. All pool piping, angles, and elbows must be braced and supported to preclude possible settlement or rupture of the line. Gravity waste lines around the pool six (6) inches or smaller must have a minimum slope of one-fourth (1/4) inch per foot toward the effluent point. Lines larger than six (6) inches and all out-fall waste lines must be designed with a size of pipe and slope to maintain a minimum velocity of two (2) feet per second with no overload or back pressure in the lines. All piping and equipment must be provided as much as possible with positive means of completely draining all water to prevent damage from freezing. All piping in the equipment room must be permanently marked with directional arrows and identified as to origin and use, e.g., surface skimmer, main drains, etc. No flexible piping may be installed as part of the pool recirculation or booster systems. NSF PVC flexible piping may only be used for spa air lines and must be glued at all joints.

25. Pool Inlets and Outlets.

(a) All inlets and outlets must be provided and arranged to produce complete recirculation of water and the maintenance of uniform disinfectant throughout the pool. Relative placement of inlets and skimmers shall not produce short circuiting of the recirculation water. There must be at least four (4) return inlets, except for facilities covered under Section E and F. Wall return inlets must have variable orifice, directional flow fittings so that the flow pattern can be adjusted. Floor return inlets may be installed if they are uniformly spaced, if the number of floor return inlets provided meets the requirements of R.61-51.C.25(b). The maximum flow per inlet for all recirculation and booster system return inlets is twenty-five (25) gpm or a velocity of no greater than forty (40) feet per second per inlet. A minimum of ten (10) gpm must be provided per inlet. If necessary, the recirculation system shall be upgraded to meet the ten (10) gallon per minute requirement to ensure proper distribution of disinfectant.

(b) In pools with surface area greater than fifteen hundred (1,500) square feet, or length in excess of sixty (60) feet, inlets must be placed around the entire perimeter at maximum fifteen (15) foot intervals. In any case, an adequate number of inlets must be provided, properly spaced and located so as to accomplish complete recirculation and maintenance of a uniform and adequate level of disinfecting medium at all times. Approved inlets may be installed uniformly in the pool floor if the requirement of one (1) inlet per fifteen (15) feet of pool perimeter is met. All pool inlets must be corrosion resistant types and wall inlets must have means to adjust the flow pattern.

26. Overflow/Skimming Devices. All public swimming pools must have one (1) of the following types of surface skimming devices. Skimming action must be provided at all times when the recirculation system is in operation. Total capacity of all overflow/skimming devices in any pool must be at least one hundred percent (100%) of the required filter flow of the recirculation system.

(a) Perimeter Overflow Gutters. These gutters may be of the recessed or roll-out type. If recessed gutters are used, they must be located near the top of the pool wall and must have a minimum depth of three (3) inches. They must be uniformly level and be designed to serve as a handhold. The gutter drain outlets shall be constructed of non-corrosive material and must be placed on a maximum of fifteen (15) foot centers; gutter branch lines must be a minimum of two (2) inches in diameter. The gutter bottom must slope toward these outlets with a minimum slope of one-eight (1/8) inch per foot. The gutter must be easily accessible for cleaning. The opening into the gutter must not be less than four (4) inches wide.

(i) When perimeter overflow gutters are used, a surge capacity must be provided to accommodate excess water that cannot be satisfactorily accommodated by the recirculation system. Surge capacity must be not less than one gallon for each square foot of pool surface. Recovery time required to return the overflow system to skimming action after maximum pool displacement has ceased must be minimized. Credit may be given for in pool surge capacity provided that the gutter is designed to serve in this manner and skimming action is provided over the complete range of water levels.

(ii) Roll-out gutters must have a width of eight (8) to twelve (12) inches and must have an edge that is uniformly level. The lip of the gutter must have a minimum pitch of one (1) inch to twelve (12) inches of width. Gutter drains of non-corrosive material must be located on maximum eight (8) foot centers; gutter branch lines must be a minimum of one and one-half (1 1/2) inches in diameter. The gutter must slope toward these outlets with a minimum slope of one-eighth (1/8) inch per foot.

(iii) Requests for gutters differing from those described above will be reviewed for approval on an individual basis after supporting engineering data, including complete hydraulics of the proposed gutter system and connecting piping has been submitted. Gutter systems must be designed so that skimming action will occur over the complete range of water levels from quiescence to full bather load.

(b) Recirculating Surface Skimmers. At least one (1) NSF listed skimmer must be provided for each four hundred (400) square feet of pool surface area, or major fraction thereof.

(i) Skimmers must be located so that the middle of the skimmer is positioned three (3) to seven (7) inches below the pool coping such that the normal operating water level of the pool is the middle of the skimmer. In lazy rivers, this depth may be increased to nine and one half (9.5) inches. The skimmer throat shall be made of tile and recessed a minimum of six (6) inches from the inside pool wall with a minimum of eighteen (18) inches opening in the pool wall angling into the skimmer throat opening (see diagram).

(ii) Skimmer weirs must be automatically adjustable to variations in water level over a range of at least three (3) inches.

(iii) An easily removable and cleanable basket, or screen, through which all overflow water must pass must be provided in each skimmer to trap large solids. One extra skimmer basket shall be provided for each pool.

(iv) The skimmer must be provided with an equalizer pipe to prevent airlock in the suction lines. This pipe must provide an adequate amount of make-up water for pump suction should the water of the pool drop below weir level. It must be at least one and one half (1 1/2) inches in diameter and be located at least one (1) foot below the lowest overflow level of the skimmer. It must be provided with a valve or equivalent device that will remain tightly closed during normal operating conditions, but will automatically open when the water level drops as much as two (2) inches below the lowest weir level.

(v) The overflow weir must operate at all flow variations expected, and must be of such buoyancy and design so as to develop an effective velocity over the weir lip.

(vi) The skimmer must be of substantial, enduring and corrosion-resistant material. Each skimmer must have a device to control flow.

(vii) Where concrete pavers are used for decking, the skimmers must be anchored in place with concrete to prevent them from settling.

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27. Safety Equipment.

(a) Lifeguard Chairs. There must be a minimum of one (1) lifeguard chair provided for each two-thousand (2,000) square feet of pool surface or major fraction thereof for Type "A" and "E" pools. Where two (2) or more lifeguard chairs are required they shall be strategically located to provide adequate coverage for all bathers. Lifeguard chairs must be elevated to such a height that will allow complete survey of the pool swimming area.

(b) Life Saving Equipment. All pools must be equipped with at least one (1) unit of life saving equipment must be inside the fence and be within two hundred (200) feet walking distance from any point on the pool perimeter. This equipment must be located within the pool area and inside the fence. One (1) unit of life saving equipment must be provided for each lifeguard chair. Life saving equipment is not required at Type "C" and "D" pools. All life saving equipment must be visible from the deck and unimpeded access must be provided.

(c) Emergency Equipment. All Type "A" and "E" pools must be equipped with at least one (1) unit of emergency equipment.

(d) First Aid Kit. All Type "A" and "E" pools must have a first aid kit. This kit must be readily accessible when the pool is open to the public.

28. Signs.

(a) All signs must be clearly displayed around the pool and must be free of obstructions including vegetation.

(b) Pool Rules Sign. At least one (1) "Pool Rules" sign for informational purposes must be posted such that the sign is visible from all entrance points of the pool and must contain, as a minimum, the items listed below, with the blanks reflected in (xii) through (xvi) below filled in before authorized operation:

(i) There should be no solo swimming.

(ii) There should be no running, boisterous or rough play.

(iii) No person under the influence of alcohol or drugs should use the pool.

(iv) There should be no spitting or blowing nose in pool.

(v) Persons with diarrheal illness or nausea should not enter the pool.

(vi) Persons with skin, eye, ear or respiratory infections should not enter the pool.

(vii) Persons with open lesions or wounds should not enter the pool.

(viii) No animals or pets allowed in the pool.

(ix) No glass allowed in the pool or on the deck.

(x) No children should be in the pool without supervision.

(xi) You should take a shower before entering the pool.

(xii) This pool is open from a.m. to p.m.

(xiii) The maximum number of swimmers allowed in the pool is .

(xiv) A first aid kit is located .

(xv) An emergency phone (or other notification device) is located .

(xvi) Life saving equipment is located at .

(c) No Diving Sign. In addition to the above sign, permanent and separate "NO DIVING ALLOWED" signs must be displayed in conspicuous locations at all pools of surface area greater than two hundred (200) square feet and not having dimensions adequate for diving. The sign must read in all capitalized letters "SHALLOW WATER - NO DIVING ALLOWED" and must have minimum four (4) inch lettering for "SHALLOW WATER" and six (6) inch lettering for "NO DIVING ALLOWED". Two (2) or more signs must be provided so as to be clearly visible to anyone entering the pool. This sign may be required on Type "C", "D", "E", "F", and "G" pools if the Department decides the signs are applicable.

(d) No Lifeguard on Duty Sign. In addition to the above signs, permanent and separate "NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY" signs must be displayed in conspicuous locations. The sign must read in all capitalized letters "NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY - SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK" and must have minimum six (6) inch lettering for "NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY" and must have minimum four (4) inch lettering for "SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK". Two (2) or more signs must be provided and be clearly visible to anyone entering the pool. These signs are required on all Type "B", "C", "D", "F", and "G" pools that do not have lifeguards.

(e) Spa Caution Sign. In addition to a pool rules sign, heated spas must also have a waterproof sign with bold lettering which is clearly visible and contains the following warning statement: CAUTION

CAUTION

(i) Elderly persons and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure should consult their physician before using the spa.

(ii) The use of this spa while under the influence of alcohol, anticoagulants, antihistamines, vasoconstrictors, vasodilators, stimulants, hypnotics, narcotics or tranquilizers should be avoided.

(iii) Pregnant women should not use the spa without consulting their physician.

(iv) Persons should spend no more than fifteen (15) minutes in the spa at any one (1) session. Long exposures may result in nausea, dizziness or fainting.

(v) The maximum temperature recommended by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, for any spa is 104°F. The actual temperature of this spa at ___ o'clock today is ___°F.

(f) Pool Operator Sign. A sign must be posted or language must be added to the "Pool Rules" sign which reads, "The Pool Operator at this facility is __________ State license number __________."

29. Main Drains.

(a) A minimum of two (2) main drains must be provided on the bottom floor of the pool with at least one (1) at the lowest point of the floor to completely drain the entire pool. All such outlets must be interconnected and each drain must be directly connected to the main drain line. The interconnecting line must be adequately sized to accommodate one hundred (100) percent of the recirculation or booster pump flow. The main drain spacing must not be greater than twenty (20) feet nor less than three (3) feet on centers, nor shall they be more than fifteen (15) feet from any side wall. Interconnecting and outlet pipes must be flush with side wall and/or floor of main drain sump. If the pool is intended for fire protection the main drains and piping associated must be sized appropriately and shown on the plans.

(b) Each outlet grate area must be sized to accommodate 100% of the recirculation flow and the velocity through the open area of the grate must not be greater than one and one-half (1 1/2) feet per second. Each drain sump or pot must be of adequate depth and design to provide for uniform suction across the entire grate area. Outlet grates must be anchored with corrosion resistant screws that cannot be removed without the use of tools and slots must not be more than one-half (1/2) inch wide. When the outlet fittings are of the anti-vortex type, maximum entrance velocities may be increased to six (6) feet per second. All outlet grates must be of corrosion resistant materials.

(c) Hydrostatic relief valves must be incorporated into at least one of the lowest main drain sumps or a well point system must be provided. These may not be required when the bottom of the pool is above the high water table.

30. Overflow. Overflows are required for all indoor pools having a volume of fifteen hundred (1,500) gallons or greater. If overflow connections are not provided in skimmers or surge tanks, some type of overflow must be built into the pool wall which will be of sufficient size to carry off water that could be supplied by the fill spout, rainfall, or automatic fill device. All such overflow devices must drain to an approved location and must have a minimum six (6) inch air gap or check valve. Overflows must discharge to a location that drains away from the pool area such that the discharge remains visible when overflowing.

31. Electrical and Illumination Requirements. Artificial lighting must be provided at all public swimming pools which are to be used at night or which do not have adequate natural lighting so that all portions of the pool, including the bottom, may be readily seen without glare.

(a) Underwater Lighting. Where underwater lighting is used, not less than 0.5 watts of incandescent lighting or 8.35 lumens must be provided per square foot of pool area. An adequate number of lights must be used and properly positioned so that all portions of the pool are clearly visible to an observer on the pool deck. Fiberoptic lighting may only be installed as a supplement to the minimum lighting requirements outlined above. Colored lights that do not provide for an equivalent light output to the wattage or lumens noted above for clear lights cannot be used.

(b) Area Lighting. Where underwater lighting is used, uniform area lighting must be provided for the deck area and directed toward the deck area and away from the pool surface insofar as practical. Illumination of the pool deck surface must be at least ten (10) foot candles of intensity, or not less than 0.6 watts of incandescent light or 10 lumens per square foot. Where underwater lighting is not used and night swimming is permitted, uniform area lighting must be provided in an amount of not less than thirty-two (32) foot candles of intensity, or not less than two 2 watts of incandescent light or 33.5 lumens per square foot of pool area in addition to 0.6 watts of incandescent light or ten (10) foot candles of intensity per square foot of deck area. These lights must be placed around the pool area such that all sections and depths of the pool are clearly visible at all times. Light fixtures located within the pool area must be protected by a non-breakable lens.

(c) Overhead Conductors, Wiring and Lights.

(i) Overhead conductors and wiring not in conduit must not pass within an area extending a distance of twenty (20) feet horizontally away from the inside edge of the pool walls, diving structures, observation stands, towers, or platforms. No pool can be constructed under an existing utility owned supply conductor in accordance with the current edition of the National Electrical Safety Code.

(ii) There shall be no light fixtures or conductor splices directly above the water surface at any outdoor pool. Indoor pools must comply with the same restriction except that light fixtures protected by a non-breakable lens are allowed.

(d) Wiring and grounding for lights and all electrical power for swimming pool equipment must conform to the codes of the current edition of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) National Electric Code. All electrical circuits within the pool area including all accessory equipment, electric drinking water fountains, and bathhouse/minimum toilet facility receptacles are required to meet the current edition of the NFPA National Electric Code; provided, however, all such circuits shall have ground fault protection regardless of their proximity to the pool. Exceptions may be granted for lighting and fixtures that are twenty-five (25) feet or more above the pool deck and would not pose a risk of electrocution. Junction boxes must be above the pool water level and must not be a trip hazard.

32. Instructions For Operation.

(a) The specifications and/or plans for all public swimming pools must include the provision that upon completion of any swimming pool, the builder must give the owner and his operators complete written and oral instructions in the operation of the pool and all equipment, in the chemistry of swimming pool water and specific details covering the maintenance of the equipment. Also, these instructions and provisions must consist of the operation of the entire facility under the builder's observation for a minimum of three (3) days. All valves must be permanently tagged and identified as to use and a valve operating schedule must be provided for every operation.

(b) Instructions, including the valve schedule, must be supplied in not less than two (2) copies. These must be encased in a water proof covering with one (1) copy permanently posted on the equipment room wall.

33. Equipment Acceptance. Any equipment to be used in public swimming pools must be approved by the National Sanitation Foundation Testing Laboratory, Inc., Ann Arbor, Michigan, or other laboratories acceptable to the Department, where applicable.

34. Swimming and Deck Limits.

(a) The total number of persons which can safely utilize a swimming pool facility shall be based upon the sum of the following areas:

(i) Swimming Area. (The area between the transition point and the diving area) One (1) person for each twenty-five (25) square feet of surface area.

(ii) Shallow Area. One (1) person for each ten (10) square feet of surface area.

(iii) Deck Area. One (1) person for each thirty-three (33) square feet of the required minimum deck area.

(iv) Type "D" Pools. One (1) person for each ten (10) square feet of surface area.

(b) The pool capacity determination is not applicable for Type "C" and "E" pools.

(c) Diving Area. An area extending a ten (10) foot radius from the extremity of a diving board or tower will be considered as reserved for divers, and not more than one (1) person shall be permitted in the water in this area at any time diving is in progress. Only one (1) person is allowed on any diving board at one time.

35. Steps and Ladders. At least one (1) ladder/steps must be provided for each seventy-five (75) feet of pool perimeter. Two (2) or more ladders/steps must be provided for all Type "A" and "B" pools.

(a) Ladders - All ladders must have a minimum of three (3) tread design and must include treads of non-slip construction. All ladders must be commercially-rated and designed so as to be secured tightly in place when the pool is in operation unless they are removed for certain aquatic events. Grab rail recess step type ladders can be used in lieu of the standard three (3) tread ladder.

(b) Steps - Steps shall have a minimum tread width of twelve (12) inches, a maximum rise of eleven (11) inches and a minimum length of thirty (30) inches. All step risers must be of uniform height (within one half (1/2) inch of each other) with the exception of the bottom riser. All step treads must be level with a tolerance for step slope of one half (1/2) inch. When radial steps are to be constructed, the minimum standards are shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 as follows. All steps shall be non-slip and constructed in the shallow end of the pool only. Permanent black or dark colored edge stripes such as tile must mark steps. The edge stripe must be a minimum of two (2) inches wide, must be provided the entire length of each step, must be non-slip in texture, and must be installed on the run of each step so as to be clearly visible by patrons upon entering the pool. The step edge stripe must start within one (1) inch from the edge of the step.

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(c) Handrails - Where steps are used, a minimum of one (1) handrail must be installed. All handrails must be securely anchored, extend over and anchor into the bottom step, and be easily accessible for exiting the pool. No portion of the handrail shall be closer than three (3) feet from any other handrail, unless Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements apply. No figure four type handrails may be installed except on fiberglass pools and Type "C" pools. Where the average step length, as measured from the front edge of the middle step, is over ten (10) feet in width there shall be one (1) additional handrail for every average ten (10) feet of step width or major fraction thereof and they shall be evenly spaced. Handrails must be of the removable type. Handrails shall be designed so as to be secured tightly in place when the pool is in operation unless they are removed for certain aquatic events.

(d) Tanning Ledges - When tanning ledges are provided, the maximum water depth shall be twelve (12) inches. If the distance from the tanning ledge to the coping exceeds eleven (11) inches, then a single step and handrail must be provided.

36. Construction Variance. When a pool contractor desires to use a construction procedure inconsistent with the regulations or use materials and/or equipment other than specified in these regulations a variance may be requested from the Department. Such a request must be submitted in writing and shall include a description of the material(s), equipment, and/or construction procedure(s) proposed, identify the material, equipment and/or procedure required by the regulation, and include proof of equivalency. This request for a variance will be considered by the Department for approval. The Department's decision on such a variance will be final.

37. Bridges. Bridges over the pool shall be built so that they will not introduce any contamination to the pool water. The minimum height of the bridge shall be at least seven (7) feet from the bottom of the pool and at least four (4) feet above the surface of the pool. Minimum forty-two (42) inch high handrails shall be provided along each side of the bridge. The walking surfaces shall be constructed of concrete or nonabsorbent material having a non-slip finish. A sign must be posted at both ends of any bridge crossing over a pool stating in all capitalized letters "NO DIVING OR JUMPING FROM BRIDGE ALLOWED". This sign must be clearly visible to anyone walking over the bridge.

38. Portable Kiddie Slides. Portable slides must comply with the requirements of Section G Paragraph 1, Section G Paragraph 2, Section G Paragraph 3(a), 3(b), 3(d)(vi), 3(d)(vii), 3(e)(ii), and 3(e)(iii). Portable slides are only allowed in Type "A" and "E" pools.

(a) The distance between the slide exit and the opposite side of the landing pool or other obstructions shall be a minimum of fifteen (15) feet.

(b) The slide must terminate no more than two (2) inches above the water surface and cannot terminate on an angle.

(c) Potable water supplies for wet slides shall be protected by proper backflow prevention and any piping or hose shall not be a trip hazard.

(d) Portable slides must be secured when not in use or when an attendant is not available.

(e) Where applicable or recommended by the manufacturer, it may be necessary to secure the slide to the deck with anchor bolts or other suitable mounting hardware.

39. Surge tank. Where surge tanks are provided, a means to clean and maintain the tank shall be shown on the plans. Main drains must be located in the bottom of the tank.

S.C. Code Regs. § 61-51.C

Replaced and amended by State Register Volume 38, Issue No. 6, eff 6/27/2014.