By: Helsing Admin
Among the almost 900 new laws the California legislature brought us last year, changes were made to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 relating to public swimming pools. The term “public swimming pools” includes all such pools located within the common areas of community associations – so these requirements and HOA swimming pool rules apply to all community associations even if you do not open your pool to the public.
This change includes new procedures that will be required when your facility is reconstructed, remodeled, or you have a change of equipment – and we will discuss those requirements in a future article. However, the new signage requirements are now in effect, and if you have not already done so you should take immediate action to come into compliance.
HOA Swimming Pool Rules: New Signage Requirements
Keep Closed Sign – A sign must be posted on the exterior of gates and doors leading into the pool enclosure area stating “Keep Closed”. The sign must be in capitalized four-inch (4″) lettering. (Don’t you love it when the legislature gets detailed? I guess 12″ non-capitalized letters would make the pool more dangerous!)
Diarrhea Sign – (Stop laughing!) This one must be in one inch (1″) lettering and in a language or diagram that is clearly stated and must be posted at all entrance gates of the pool. (I am running a contest for the best “diagram” that would clearly state this – please send your ideas privately.) The signs (or I suppose the diagram) must state that persons having currently active diarrhea or who have had active diarrhea within the previous fourteen (14) days shall not be allowed to enter the pool water. I have no idea how to enforce this without running into a whole bunch of privacy issues – but do put the sign up or your pool will be shut down.
Emergency Sign – In addition to the currently required 911 number (which I think is 911 for everyone! – and it also needs to be in four inch (4″) lettering), you now must have the phone number of the nearest emergency services (such as a hospital), and the name and address of the pool facility posted adjacent to the pool.
Directional Flow for Recirculating Equipment – All of the pool’s piping must be labeled with directional symbols indicating the directional flow of the water. If you have recirculating equipment for more than one pool at the site, the equipment must also be marked as to which pool the system services. In addition, all valves and plumbing lines shall be labeled clearly with the source or destination descriptions.
In all seriousness, it is easy to see the health and safety concerns that have caused your legislators to feel this is important – and you should too. So, in spite of my cynicism concerning some of the rather stupid qualifiers included in the bills – follow HOA swimming pool rules – be safe, be smart, and get on this one.
