Pool Lift Alternatives
The ADA Standards for Accessible Design and Chapter 11B of the California Building Code (Title 24) both require accessible means of entry at hotel swimming pools and spas. The most common form of accessible entry into a pool, spa or wading pool is the Pool Lift. The primary reason that pool lifts are so commonly used is because they are relatively easy to install at existing pools. The downside to using pool lifts is the ongoing maintenance to keep them safe and operable to use without the need for assistance. From a design standpoint, pool lifts are not very aesthetically pleasing.
In this post, we will explore some of the other accessible means of pool entry:
Sloped Entry
Sloped Entries are exactly as they sound. They are ramps that lead directly into the swimming pool. The benefit of providing a sloped entry into a pool is that long term maintenance is very limited compared to pool lifts. There is no need to run electrical wiring or charge batteries like you need for pool lift. The drawback to using a sloped entry is the amount of area that it occupies. Some of the requirements for sloped entries include:
Sloped entries shall extend to a depth of 24 inches minimum and 30 inches maximum below the stationary water level.
Landings may be required
At least two handrails shall be provided on the sloped entry.
The clear width between required handrails shall be 33 inches minimum and 38 inches maximum.
Transfer Walls & Transfer Systems
Transfer systems are a great alternative to pool lifts at new spas. Instead of providing a bulky chair directly adjacent to the spa, a transfer wall or transfer system separates the pool deck from the spa. This allows a wheelchair user to safely transfer from the wheelchair onto the wall or platform and then down into the water. If designed well, many guests may not even realize that the spa was designed for accessible entry. Some of the requirements for transfer walls or transfer systems include:
A clear deck space of 60 inches minimum by 60 inches minimum
A raised wall or platform
At least 1 grab bar
Transfer steps if needed
There are different approaches to disability access compliance. In my opinion, accessible features tend to be less visually appealing when added to existing facilities. When new pool and spas are being constructed, designers have a great opportunity to provide fully accessible features without sacrificing ascetics. If your pool at a public accommodation is being designed, we recommend contacting our Certified Access Specialists (CASp) to review your architectural plans. Many designers default to the use pool lifts in new construction, but a CASp can assist by with the accessible alternatives that may benefit all parties involved.
