Commercial Swimming Pool Standards
Swimming pools for public or business use.
Location
Recessed steps, ladders, or stairs for swimming pools shall be provided at the shallow end. Ladders or recessed steps shall be provided at the deep end. If the pool is over 30 feet (9.1 m) wide, such steps, ladders, or stairs shall be installed on each side.
Ladders
Pool ladders shall be corrosion-resistant and shall be equipped with slip-resistant treads. All ladders shall be so designed as to provide a handhold. There shall be a clearance of not more than 6 inches (15 cm) nor less than 3 inches (7.6 cm) between any ladder and pool wall. Treads shall be no more than 12 inches (30 cm) apart.
Recessed Steps
Recessed steps shall be readily cleanable, slip-resistant, and shall be arranged to drain into the pool. Recessed steps shall have a minimum tread of 5 inches (13 cm) and a minimum width of 14 inches (36 cm). Steps shall be no more than 12 inches (30 cm) apart.
Handrails
Where recessed steps or ladders are provided, there shall be a handrail at the top of each side thereof, extending over the coping or edge of the deck.
Stairs and Stair Handrails
Where stairs are provided, they shall be located diagonally in a corner of the pool or be recessed. Handrails shall be provided at stairs such that all stair areas are within reach of a handrail. Stairs shall have slip-resistant finish, a minimum tread of 12 inches (30 cm), and a maximum rise of 10 inches (25 cm).