Water Treatment System.
24 RCNY § 165.45
in effect§ 165.45 Water Treatment System.
(a) General. A water treatment system consisting of pumps, piping, filters, water conditioning and disinfection equipment, and other accessory equipment, shall be provided which will clarify, chemically balance and disinfect the pool water and/or spray pad water. The system shall be designed for a recirculation flow rate that will result in a turnover period in each pool and/or spray ground not exceeding those specified below. Construction shall comply with all other provisions of this Code regarding water and waste water.
(1) Pools. Each pool shall have a separate water treatment system. Pools with an approved design rate of less than those specified below shall be operated at the design rate. Construction of fill and draw pools is prohibited.
Types of Pool Turnover Period Shall Not Exceed
Swimming Pool 6 hours
Physical-Therapy Pool 4 hours
Moveable Bottom Pool 4 hours
Wading Pool 2 hours
Wave Pool 2 hours
White Water Slides 1 hour
Spa Pool 30 minutes; and shall be capable of returning the spa water to a turbidity of less than 0.50 N.T.U. (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) measured within four hours following the peak bather load.
Pools constructed prior to March 31, 1973 may have an eight-hour turnover rate.
(2) Spray Grounds. All water provided to the spray pad shall be treated with ultraviolet light as specified in 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(l)(9) during spray pad operation. The spray pad treatment system shall comply with the following requirements:
(A) The water from the spray pad treatment system can only be combined/circulated with water from other pool(s) if:
(1) All the water from the spray pad is treated by ultraviolet (uv) light disinfection prior to combining/circulating with water from the other pool(s) or;
(2) UV light disinfection are provided to treat all of the water in the other pool(s). The larger flow rate resulting from the two calculations below shall be the minimum flow rate used for the treatment system design. All recirculated water must pass through both the ultraviolet light unit(s) and filters. The minimum flow rate through the treatment system shall be calculated using the two methods described below:
(i) Minimum flow rate (For ultraviolet disinfection):
Q: Minimum flow rate through the ultraviolet disinfection/filtration system (in gallons per minute)
V: Pool volume (in gallons). ln(V): Natural log of the volume. 14.8-ln(V): Number of turnovers
(ii) Minimum filtration flow rate (for combined pool/spray pad system): The minimum filtration rate for a pool that shares water with a spray pad is specified in 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(2)(C)(iii). The minimum filtration flow rate shall be at least the sum of the flow rate for the pool type specified in 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(1) and one third of the spray feature flow rate.
(B) When water supplying the spray features is removed from the spray pad treatment tank by a pump separate from the filtration/recirculation pump system, the ratio of the flow rate of water supplied to the spray features directly from the treatment tank must not exceed 3 times the design filtered water flow rate.
(C) Turnover Rate.
(i) When water is supplied to the spray features by a pump which removes water directly from the spray pad treatment tank independent from the spray pad treatment tank filter pump, the turnover rate for filtration shall be determined by the feature flow rate. The filtration flow rate for the spray pad treatment tank must be at least one-third of the design spray feature flow rate.
(ii) When all of the water supplied to the spray features is filtered upon removal from the spray pad treatment tank before being supplied to the spray features, a reduced pumping rate for filtration/treatment of the spray pad treatment tank water can be used when the spray features are not in operation. However, a minimum 4-hour turnover rate shall be provided.
(iii) The minimum flow rate through the filtration system for combined pool/spray pad systems shall be equal to or greater than the sum of the flow rate for the specific type pool as required by 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(1), plus one third of the spray feature flow rate.
(b) Equipment and storage area. All the pumps, filters, chemical feeders and other mechanical equipment and chemicals shall be secured and protected by an appropriate enclosure or room, separate and apart from the pool. The size of the equipment room shall provide working space to perform routine operations. Clearance shall be provided for all equipment as prescribed by the manufacturers to allow normal maintenance operation and removal without disturbing other piping or equipment. Operating instructions and a schematic drawing for all equipment shall be provided in the equipment enclosure room. Adequate storage area shall be provided for chemicals and supplementary equipment. A dry above ground storage area shall be provided for facilities using calcium hypochlorite as a disinfectant. Equipment rooms shall not be used for storage of chemicals emitting corrosive fumes or for storage of other items to the extent that entrance to the room for inspection or operation of the equipment is impaired.
(c) Hydraulics and piping system.
(1) Materials. The recirculating piping and fittings shall be of nontoxic material, resistant to corrosion, and able to withstand operating pressures. Acceptable materials for recirculation systems are polyvinylchloride (PVC), copper, stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron or other material suitable for water supply applications.
(2) Size. All pipes, fittings and valves of the recirculation system shall be designed to reduce friction losses to a minimum and to carry the required quantity of water at a maximum velocity not to exceed six feet per second (6 ft/s) under suction, ten feet per second (10 ft/s) under pressure and three feet per second (3 ft/s) in gravity flow.
(3) Plumbing color coding. All exposed piping and valves should be identified by color code in accordance with Table 4. Where two colors do not have sufficient contrast to easily differentiate between them, a six inch band of contrasting color should be painted on one pipe at approximately thirty inch (30") intervals. The name of the liquid or gas and arrows indicating direction of flow should be shown on the pipe.
Table 4: Plumbing Color Coding Schedule
Category Color Code
Piping
Potable water lines Dark blue
Filtered water Aqua
Skimmer or gutter return Olive green
Main drain Black
Alum Orange
Chlorine (gas/solution) Yellow
Soda ash White
Acid Pink
Waste lines
Backwash waste Dark brown
Sewer Dark gray
Deck drains Light brown
Other
Compressed air Dark green
Gas Red
(4) Installation and draining of pipes. All equipment and piping shall be designed and fabricated to drain completely by use of drain plugs, drain valves or other means. All piping shall be supported continuously or at sufficiently close intervals to prevent sagging. All suction piping shall be sloped in one direction, preferably toward the pump. All supply and return pipelines to the pool and/or spray pad shall be provided with valves or other means to allow the piping to be drained to a point below the frost line. Provision shall be made for expansion and contraction of pipes.
(d) Selection of recirculation pumps. The recirculation pump shall have adequate capacity (flow rate and pressure) to meet the design requirements of the pool and/or spray pad treatment tank, including filter backwashing and turnover rate. It shall be of a self-priming type if installed above the hydraulic gradient. A gauge which indicates both pressure and vacuum shall be installed on the pump suction header and a pressure gauge shall be installed on the pump discharge line. Gauges shall be installed as near to the pump inlet as possible.
(e) Strainers and screens. The recirculation system shall include suitable strainer(s) or screen(s) to prevent hair, lint, and other debris from reaching the pump and filters. The strainers shall be of rigid construction, fabricated of corrosion-resistant material and of adequate strength to withstand maximum anticipated loading including pressure. The openings shall be no greater than one-eighth inch in any dimension. The total clear area of all openings shall be at least four times the area of the connecting pipe. The strainer shall have a quick-opening cover. One spare strainer basket shall be provided for each strainer. In systems where the filter is located on the suction side of the pump, strainers are not required.
(f) Inlets (for pools). Wall or floor inlets shall be provided for all pools and shall be located and directed to provide distribution of treated water to facilitate the maintenance of a uniform disinfectant residual throughout the entire pool.
(1) Number. Wall inlets shall be spaced at a distance of no greater than twenty feet (20') apart, with one inlet within five feet (5') of each corner of the pool and one in each recessed step area or other space where water circulation might be impaired.
(2) Location. Wall inlets shall be located at least twelve inches (12") below the design water surface. Bottom inlets shall be uniformly spaced with a separation distance of no greater than twenty feet (20') and with rows of inlets within fifteen feet (15') of each side wall. In any pool over sixty feet (60') in width, floor inlets should be provided. These shall be flush with the floor.
(3) Type. Inlet fittings shall be of the adjustable rate-of-flow type. Directional flow inlets shall be used with skimmer type pools. Inlets shall not extend from the floor or wall to create a hazard.
(4) Testing. Dye testing (crystal violet or equivalent) should be performed to determine and adjust the recirculation pattern.
(g) Main drains (for pools). Every pool constructed after July 15, 1998, shall have at least two hydraulically balanced main drains to the pool filter system installed in the pool floor at the deepest point. The minimum distance between the main drains shall be three feet (3') measured from center to center of the drains. If the floor of a spa pool is insufficient for a separation distance of three feet (3'), then the separation distance shall be as great as possible. The main drains shall be connected to a single main suction pipe by branch lines and the branch lines shall not be valved so as to be capable of operating independently. Pools constructed before July 15, 1998, shall have at least one main drain installed in the pool floor at the deepest point.
(1) Location. The main drains shall not be spaced at more than twenty feet (20') on centers and fifteen feet (15') from side walls and shall be connected in parallel.
(2) Grating. The main drain shall be protected by gratings or other approved covers having an opening sufficient to restrict water velocity to less than 1 1/2 feet per second through the grating. The maximum width of grate opening shall be one-half inch. Gratings or drain covers shall not be removable without the use of tools.
(3) Piping. Each main drain shall be connected to the recirculation system. The branch pipe from each main drain shall be designed to carry at least one hundred percent (100%) of the design recirculation flow rate. The single main suction pipe to the pump shall be equipped with a valve to control total main drain flow. The suction velocity in the pipe shall not exceed six feet per second (6 ft/s).
(4) Minimum flow. At least thirty percent (30%) of the total recirculation rate should flow through the main drains.
(5) A hydrostatic relief valve shall be provided at each main drain for in-ground pools.
(h) Surface skimmer systems (for pools). A surface skimmer system, perimeter overflow system or recessed automatic surface skimmers, shall be provided on all pools and shall be designed and installed to continuously remove all floating material, surface dirt and waste water. A perimeter overflow system shall be required on all pools which have a pool width exceeding thirty feet (30'), or a surface area of over one thousand six hundred square feet (1,600 ft2). Pools having a width of thirty feet (30') or less, or a surface area of one thousand six hundred square feet (1,600 ft2) or less shall be provided either with perimeter overflows or skimmers. A combination of perimeter overflow systems and skimmers may also be used when approved by the department. All overflow systems and skimmers shall be capable of continuously removing all floating material, surface dirt and waste water.
(1) Perimeter overflow systems. All pools shall be designed to provide continuous skimming from the pool's surface at a rate of at least one hundred percent (100%) of recirculation rate. In pools where perimeter overflow systems are provided, the following shall be met:
(A) Design. The perimeter overflow systems shall extend completely around the pool, except at steps or recessed ladders in the shallow portion and shall be level to a tolerance of one-eighth inch (1/8"). The gutter shall be capable of continuously removing one hundred percent (100%) of the recirculation water and return it to the filter.
(B) Size and shape. The gutters, drains and return piping to the surge tank shall be designed to rapidly remove overflow water caused by recirculation displacement, wave action or other causes produced from the maximum pool bathing load. Make-up water supply equipment shall be provided to maintain continuous skimming.
(C) The gutter shall be designed to serve as a handgrip and to prevent entrapment of bather's arms, legs and feet. It shall permit ready inspection, cleaning and repair.
(D) The overflow gutter outlets shall be provided with outlet pipes at least two inches (2") in diameter. The outlet fittings shall have a clean opening in the grating at least equal to 1.5 times the cross-sectional area of the outlet pipe.
(E) Drainage shall be sufficient to minimize flooding and prevent backflow of skimmed water into the pool.
(F) Surge capacity. All overflow systems shall be designed with an effective surge capacity of not less than one gallon for each square foot of pool surface area. Surge shall be provided within a surge tank, in the gutter or filter above the normal flow line, or elsewhere in the system. Surge tanks, gutters and filter tanks should have overflow pipes to convey excess water to waste. Surge tanks shall be provided with means for complete draining.
(2) Skimmers. Skimmers shall be designed and installed to prevent electrical hazards or short circuiting. Recessed automatic surface skimmers are permitted on pools where the width does not exceed thirty feet (30') and a water surface area is less than one thousand six hundred square feet (1,600 ft2). In pools where skimmers are provided, the following shall be met:
(A) Number. One skimmer for each four hundred square feet (400 ft2) of water surface area or fraction thereof shall be provided. Additional skimmers may be required to achieve effective skimming.
(B) Location. Skimmers shall be so located to optimize skimming of the entire water surface with minimum interference and placed so as to prevent short circuiting. Prevailing wind direction and the pool outline shall be considered in the selection of skimmer locations and the location of skimmers shall be such that the interference of adjacent inlets and skimmers is minimized.
(C) Capacity. The piping and other pertinent components of skimmers shall be designed for a total capacity of one hundred percent (100%) of the required filter flow of the recirculation system and no skimmer shall be designed for a flowthrough rate less than thirty gallons per minute per foot (30 gpm/ft) of weir length.
(D) Control. Skimmers shall have weirs that adjust automatically and operate freely and continuously with variations of at least four inches in water level. All skimmed water shall pass through an easily removable and cleanable basket or screen before encountering control valves or entering the pump suction line. Each skimmer shall be equipped with a device to control flow.
(E) Relief line. Skimmers shall include a device to prevent an air lock in the suction line. If equalizer pipes are used, they shall pass an adequate amount of water to meet pump suction requirements should pool water drop below the weir level. The equalizer pipes shall be located at least one foot below the lowest overflow level of the skimmer. A valve or equivalent device that will remain tightly closed under normal operating conditions, but automatically open when the water level drops below the minimum operating level of the skimmer, shall be provided on each equalizer pipe.
(F) Construction. Skimmers shall be installed in the pool walls, be sturdy and be constructed of corrosion-resistant materials.
(G) Handgrips. Rounded coping not more than two inches (2") thick or other handgrip adjacent to the pool wall shall be provided. The handgrip shall not be more than nine inches above the minimum skimmer operating level. When the handgrip is formed by the pool deck, it shall slope away from the pool with a one-inch (1") drop in a one-foot (1') distance.
(H) Testing. Flotation testing should be performed to determine and adjust the recirculation system for optimum skimming.
(i) Filtration. The filtration system shall be designed to maintain the required pool and/or spray pad water quality. A water treatment system shall have one or more filters. Filters shall be installed with adequate clearance and facilities for ready and safe inspection, maintenance, disassembly and repair.
(1) Sand filters. The design filtration rate of rapid sand filters shall not exceed three gallons per minute per square foot (3 gpm/ft2) of bed area at time of maximum head loss with sufficient area to meet the design rate of flow by the prescribed turnover rate. High-rate sand filters (pressure or vacuum) shall not exceed a filtration rate of fifteen gallons per minute per square foot (15 gpm/ft2) of bed area. For multiple-cell rapid sand filters, the rate of filtration shall not exceed three gallons per minute per square foot (3 gpm/ft2) of filter area. For multi-cell high-rate sand filters, filtration rate shall not exceed five gallons per minute per square foot (5 gpm/ft2) of filter area. The sand filter system shall be equipped to backwash each filter at a rate of twelve to fifteen gallons per minute per square foot (12 to 15 gpm/ft2) of filter bed area, or as recommended by the manufacturer. The backwash water shall be discharged to waste through a suitable air gap.
(A) Filter media. Sand or other media shall be carefully graded and meet the manufacturers' recommendation for pool use.
(B) Accessories. Influent pressure gauge, effluent pressure gauge, backwash sight glass and air relief valve shall be provided on all sand filters. Where multiple filter tanks are used a separate gauge panel shall be provided for each filter tank.
(2) Diatomaceous earth filters. The design filtration rate for pressure or vacuum type filters shall be no greater than 1.5 gallons per minute per square foot of effective filter area, except that a maximum filtration rate of two gallons per minute per square foot (2gpm/ft2) may be allowed where continuous application of filter material is provided ("body slurry feed," see below). The filter and all component parts shall be of such materials, design and construction to withstand normal continuous use without significant deformation, deterioration, corrosion or wear which could adversely affect filter operation.
(A) Precoating. Provision shall be made to introduce a precoat of diatomaceous filter aid to evenly cover the filter elements upon placing the equipment into initial operation and after cleaning. For pressure-type filters, the amount of filter aid shall be selected to provide at least the same protection to the filter element as that afforded by no less than 0.1 pound of diatomaceous earth filter aid per square foot of filter area.
(B) Backwash and precoating. Whenever the filter is backwashed or precoated, the filter piping shall be installed to permit continued recirculation of the water from the effluent back to the influent until a satisfactory clear effluent is produced prior to admitting the water into the pool, or to be discharged as waste water as an alternative.
(C) Body or slurry feeding. Where provided, the body feeding equipment designed for feed of filter aid to the filter influent shall be capable of applying not less than 0.1 pound of diatomaceous earth per square foot of filter area per 24 hours.
(D) Regenerative-type filters. Regenerative type of filters shall meet the same standards as pressure filters. Pumping by air or manual means shall be provided for and provision for visual inspection of elements shall be provided.
(E) Accessories for pressure-type filters. Each pressure-type filter requires a backwash sight glass, effluent pressure gauge, influent pressure gauge and air relief valve.
(F) Accessories for vacuum-type filters. A compound gauge which will indicate both positive and negative head shall be installed on the suction side of the pump. An adjustable high vacuum switch should be provided to prevent damage to the pump by cavitation.
(3) Cartridge filters. The design filtration rate for cartridge filters of depth type shall be less than three gallons per minute per square foot (3 gpm/ft2) of cartridge cylinder surface area. For surface type, the design filtration rate for cartridge filters shall not exceed 0.375 gallon per minute per square foot (0.375 gpm/ft2) of the pleated area of the cartridge. Influent pressure gauge, effluent pressure gauge and air relief valve shall be provided on all the filters. One complete extra set of filter cartridges shall be on hand at the facility's location.
(j) Flow measurement and control.
(1) Flow measurement. A means of continuously measuring rate of flow shall be provided in the recirculation system. For sand filters, the flow-measuring equipment shall be located where the backwash flow rate can also be determined. The indicator shall be capable of measuring at least 1 1/2 times the design flow rate and shall be accurate within ten percent (10%) of true flow. The indicator shall have a range of readings appropriate for the anticipated flow rates, and be installed where it is readily accessible for reading and maintenance, and with straight pipe upstream and downstream of any fitting or restriction in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation.
(2) Flow regulation. Where multiple pumps or filters are provided, each unit shall have a flow-regulating device installed. For spray grounds, automatic devices shall be provided for regulating the rate of flow through the filtration system and flow to the spray features.
(k) Water heater and thermometer (pools). A water heater shall be installed at all indoor pools. Heaters shall be installed in accordance with the standards contained in the Building Code and the manufacturer's recommendations. Heating coil, pipe or steam hose shall not be installed in a pool. Pools equipped with heaters shall have a fixed thermometer in the recirculation line downstream of the heater and another near the outlet of the pool.
(l) Disinfection and chemical feeders. Pools and/or spray pad treatment shall be designed to provide for continuous disinfection of the pool and/or spray pad water with a chemical which is an effective disinfectant and which imparts an easily measured, active residual. The pools and/or spray pad shall be equipped with a chlorinator, hypochlorinator, or other disinfectant feeder or feeders. An automatic controller shall be provided for continuous monitoring and adjusting the level of free residual disinfectant in the spray pad treatment tank. An automatic device shall be provided to deactivate chemical feeders when there is not flow in the spray pad treatment recirculation system. The feeder shall be automatic, easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance, and capable of providing the required chemical residuals which meet the following requirements:
(1) Design specifications. The feeder shall be of sturdy construction and materials which will withstand wear, corrosion or attack by disinfectant solutions or vapors, and which are not adversely affected by repeated, regular adjustments or other normal use conditions. The feeder shall not allow flow of unintended chemicals or those containing foreign materials into the pool and/or spray pad treatment. The feeders shall incorporate anti-siphon safeguards so that the disinfectant cannot continue to feed into the pool and/or spray pad treatment tank, the pool piping system, the pool enclosure, spray pad treatment tank, the spray piping system or the spray pad enclosure if any type of failure of the equipment occurs.
(2) Point of addition of disinfectant. All chemicals shall be fed into the return line after the pump, filter and heater unless the feeder is otherwise designed and specified by the manufacturer, and approved by N.S.F. and the department.
(3) Equipment capacity. Feeders shall be capable of supplying disinfectant to the pool and/or spray pad treatment in a range of chlorine demand of up to 10 mg/l or equivalent.
(4) Disinfection with bromine or solid forms of chlorine. Where bromine or chlorine in stick or pellet form is used as a disinfectant, equipment shall be provided for feeding on continuous feed.
(5) Disinfection with ozone. Ozone generating equipment (OGE) is acceptable only as a supplement to chlorine or bromine disinfection system. OGE and its components shall be listed by N.S.F. or other listings that are approved by the department and meet the following design standards:
(A) The ozone concentration in the pool water shall be less than 0.10 mg/l. Off-gassing of ozone shall not result in ozone levels exceeding 0.10 mg/l in the equipment room or in the pool area. When the OGE is installed and annually thereafter, the air space within six inches (6") of the pool water level and air in the equipment room shall be tested to determine compliance with this requirement.
(B) All corona discharge OGE systems shall be vacuum systems.
(C) Backflow of pool water into OGE shall not occur.
(6) Hypochlorinators (positive displacement pumps). Where positive displacement pumps are used to inject the disinfectant solution into the recirculation line, the following requirements shall apply:
(A) Feed. Feed shall be continuous at the proper addition rate under all conditions of pressure in the recirculation system without constriction of the recirculation pump suction.
(B) Solution tanks. If granular calcium hypochlorite is used, two solution tanks, each with minimum capacity of one-day supply, should be provided. All chemical containers including those used with chemical feeders shall be clearly labeled regarding their contents.
(7) Gas chlorination. Gas chlorination is prohibited. Chlorine gas shall not be used or stored except under permit from the Fire Department and in accordance with Building Code reference standards and as approved by the Department.
(8) Copper/silver and copper ion generators. All copper/silver and copper ion generators shall be approved by N.S.F. or equivalent which are approved by the department and are acceptable only as a supplement to chlorine or bromine disinfection system.
(9) Ultraviolet light disinfection units. All spray pad treatment systems shall provide ultraviolet light disinfection systems unless the provision of an alternative treatment process has been approved by the New York State Department of Health to be capable of providing the equivalent level of reduction of cryptosporidium as the ultraviolet light disinfection system specified in this article. The ultraviolet light unit shall be located between the spray pad treatment tank pump discharge and the spray features or as approved in accordance with 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(2)(A). The following requirement for ultraviolet light shall apply:
(A) All ultraviolet light units must be validated with dosage by an independent agency with dosage. The validation process must determine the ultraviolet light unit's disinfection performance by indicating that a dose of 40mJ/cm2 (at end of lamp life) is achieved at a flow rate equal to or greater than the design flow rate at the setpoint intensity. The validation procedure used must have been determined by the State Department of Health to be capable of demonstrating the disinfection performance described above.
(B) For systems utilizing quartz sleeves to separate the water passing through the chamber from the ultraviolet source, the system shall be designed to permit cleaning of the lamp jackets and the sensor window or lens without mechanical disassembly. For systems utilizing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface materials to separate the water that flows through the ultraviolet chamber from the lamps, the ultraviolet unit shall be designed to be readily accessible to the interior and exterior of the PTFE. The ultraviolet unit shall be designed to permit use of either physical or chemical cleaning methods.
(C) An accurately calibrated ultraviolet light intensity meter, properly filtered to restrict its sensitivity to the disinfection spectrum shall be installed in the wall of the disinfection chamber at the point of greatest water depth from the tube or tubes.
(D) An automatic system shall be installed to prevent flow to the features in the event the ultraviolet light intensity decreases below the validated set point.
(E) An automatic, audible alarm shall be installed to warn of ultraviolet light disinfection system malfunction or impending shutdown.
(F) The unit shall be designed to protect the operator against electrical shock or excessive radiation.
(G) Installation of the unit shall be in a protected enclosure not subject to extremes of temperature.
(H) A spare ultraviolet lamp and other necessary equipment to effect prompt repair by qualified personnel properly instructed in the operation and maintenance of the equipment shall be provided on-site.
(m) pH control. Mechanical feed equipment for the purpose of adding a chemical for pH adjustment shall be provided for all pools and spray grounds built. An automatic controller shall be provided for continuously monitoring and adjusting the level of pH in the spray pad treatment tank. The method of chemical addition shall protect the bather from contact with concentrated chemicals. Soda ash, caustic soda, sodium bisulfate, carbon dioxide gas, muriatic acid, or other chemicals approved for water supply use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, as food additives by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or by the Department, shall be used to raise or lower pool water pH. The method shall provide adequate distribution of the chemical throughout the pool and distribution shall be verified by pool water testing prior to bather exposure. Where carbon dioxide (CO2) is used as a method of pH control, the following features shall be provided:
(1) CO2 shall be injected into the recirculation pipe at the same point where pH adjustment solutions (i.e., acid) would normally be added. The recirculation pipe shall be of sufficient size and length to provide a minimum of five seconds contact time prior to bather contact.
(2) CO2 cylinders shall be anchored to prevent damage. Cylinders shall be inaccessible to the general public.
(3) The manufacturers' instructions shall be followed for installation and operation of cylinders. The units shall be operated by the pool operator as specified in the pool safety plan.
(4) CO2 cylinders shall be stored in a protective enclosure at the exterior of occupied structures. If CO2 cylinders are provided in the interior of occupied structures, they shall be placed in a ventilated enclosure.
(n) An automatic device shall be provided to deactivate chemical feeders when there is no flow in the recirculation system.
(o) Pool vacuum system and cleaning system (for pools). A cleaning system should be provided to remove sludge, sediment and other accumulations from the bottom of the pool. When a vacuum system is used as an integral part of the recirculation system, hose connections shall be located in the walls of the pool at least eight inches (8") below the waterline, and at such points that the floor of the pool can be cleaned with not more than fifty feet of suction hose.
(p) Spray Pad Treatment Tank (for spray grounds only). The spray pad treatment tank that receives the effluent water from the spray pad shall conform to the following specifications:
(1) Material. The spray pad treatment tank shall be constructed of materials which are inert, corrosion resistant, nontoxic, and watertight such as concrete, fiberglass, stainless steel, etc., which can withstand all anticipated loadings under full and empty conditions.
(2) Volume. The volume of the water in the spray pad treatment tank shall be sufficient to assure continuous operation of the filtration system. The capacity shall be measured from six inches above the uppermost pump inlet to the bottom of the overflow waste outlet.
(3) Controller. An automatic water level controller shall be provided for the spray pad treatment tank.
(4) Ready Access. The spray pad treatment tank must be designed to provide ready access for cleaning and inspections, and be capable of complete draining. An overflow pipe to convey excess water to waste through a suitable air gap must be provided.
(5) Backflow Prevention. The makeup water shall be introduced into the spray pad treatment tank through an air gap or by another method which will prevent back flow and back-siphonage.
(6) Screen. A screen or similar device shall be provided through which all water from the spray pad shall pass before entering the spray pad treatment tank or another method/process described to provide for removal of debris on the surface layer of the spray pad treatment tank water.
(7) Filtered/Treated Water Inlets. An adequate number of filtered or treated water inlets shall be provided and located for complete mixing and circulation of treated water within the spray pad treatment tank.
(8) Drain. At least one main drain suction outlet supplying water to the spray pad treatment tank filtration system shall be provided at the deepest point in the spray pad treatment tank.
Q: Minimum flow rate through the ultraviolet disinfection/filtration system (in gallons per minute)
V: Pool volume (in gallons). ln(V): Natural log of the volume. 14.8-ln(V): Number of turnovers
(ii) Minimum filtration flow rate (for combined pool/spray pad system): The minimum filtration rate for a pool that shares water with a spray pad is specified in 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(2)(C)(iii). The minimum filtration flow rate shall be at least the sum of the flow rate for the pool type specified in 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(1) and one third of the spray feature flow rate.
(B) When water supplying the spray features is removed from the spray pad treatment tank by a pump separate from the filtration/recirculation pump system, the ratio of the flow rate of water supplied to the spray features directly from the treatment tank must not exceed 3 times the design filtered water flow rate.
(C) Turnover Rate.
(i) When water is supplied to the spray features by a pump which removes water directly from the spray pad treatment tank independent from the spray pad treatment tank filter pump, the turnover rate for filtration shall be determined by the feature flow rate. The filtration flow rate for the spray pad treatment tank must be at least one-third of the design spray feature flow rate.
(ii) When all of the water supplied to the spray features is filtered upon removal from the spray pad treatment tank before being supplied to the spray features, a reduced pumping rate for filtration/treatment of the spray pad treatment tank water can be used when the spray features are not in operation. However, a minimum 4-hour turnover rate shall be provided.
(iii) The minimum flow rate through the filtration system for combined pool/spray pad systems shall be equal to or greater than the sum of the flow rate for the specific type pool as required by 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(1), plus one third of the spray feature flow rate.
(b) Equipment and storage area. All the pumps, filters, chemical feeders and other mechanical equipment and chemicals shall be secured and protected by an appropriate enclosure or room, separate and apart from the pool. The size of the equipment room shall provide working space to perform routine operations. Clearance shall be provided for all equipment as prescribed by the manufacturers to allow normal maintenance operation and removal without disturbing other piping or equipment. Operating instructions and a schematic drawing for all equipment shall be provided in the equipment enclosure room. Adequate storage area shall be provided for chemicals and supplementary equipment. A dry above ground storage area shall be provided for facilities using calcium hypochlorite as a disinfectant. Equipment rooms shall not be used for storage of chemicals emitting corrosive fumes or for storage of other items to the extent that entrance to the room for inspection or operation of the equipment is impaired.
(c) Hydraulics and piping system.
(1) Materials. The recirculating piping and fittings shall be of nontoxic material, resistant to corrosion, and able to withstand operating pressures. Acceptable materials for recirculation systems are polyvinylchloride (PVC), copper, stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron or other material suitable for water supply applications.
(2) Size. All pipes, fittings and valves of the recirculation system shall be designed to reduce friction losses to a minimum and to carry the required quantity of water at a maximum velocity not to exceed six feet per second (6 ft/s) under suction, ten feet per second (10 ft/s) under pressure and three feet per second (3 ft/s) in gravity flow.
(3) Plumbing color coding. All exposed piping and valves should be identified by color code in accordance with Table 4. Where two colors do not have sufficient contrast to easily differentiate between them, a six inch band of contrasting color should be painted on one pipe at approximately thirty inch (30") intervals. The name of the liquid or gas and arrows indicating direction of flow should be shown on the pipe.
Table 4: Plumbing Color Coding Schedule
Category Color Code
Piping
Potable water lines Dark blue
Filtered water Aqua
Skimmer or gutter return Olive green
Main drain Black
Alum Orange
Chlorine (gas/solution) Yellow
Soda ash White
Acid Pink
Waste lines
Backwash waste Dark brown
Sewer Dark gray
Deck drains Light brown
Other
Compressed air Dark green
Gas Red
(4) Installation and draining of pipes. All equipment and piping shall be designed and fabricated to drain completely by use of drain plugs, drain valves or other means. All piping shall be supported continuously or at sufficiently close intervals to prevent sagging. All suction piping shall be sloped in one direction, preferably toward the pump. All supply and return pipelines to the pool and/or spray pad shall be provided with valves or other means to allow the piping to be drained to a point below the frost line. Provision shall be made for expansion and contraction of pipes.
(d) Selection of recirculation pumps. The recirculation pump shall have adequate capacity (flow rate and pressure) to meet the design requirements of the pool and/or spray pad treatment tank, including filter backwashing and turnover rate. It shall be of a self-priming type if installed above the hydraulic gradient. A gauge which indicates both pressure and vacuum shall be installed on the pump suction header and a pressure gauge shall be installed on the pump discharge line. Gauges shall be installed as near to the pump inlet as possible.
(e) Strainers and screens. The recirculation system shall include suitable strainer(s) or screen(s) to prevent hair, lint, and other debris from reaching the pump and filters. The strainers shall be of rigid construction, fabricated of corrosion-resistant material and of adequate strength to withstand maximum anticipated loading including pressure. The openings shall be no greater than one-eighth inch in any dimension. The total clear area of all openings shall be at least four times the area of the connecting pipe. The strainer shall have a quick-opening cover. One spare strainer basket shall be provided for each strainer. In systems where the filter is located on the suction side of the pump, strainers are not required.
(f) Inlets (for pools). Wall or floor inlets shall be provided for all pools and shall be located and directed to provide distribution of treated water to facilitate the maintenance of a uniform disinfectant residual throughout the entire pool.
(1) Number. Wall inlets shall be spaced at a distance of no greater than twenty feet (20') apart, with one inlet within five feet (5') of each corner of the pool and one in each recessed step area or other space where water circulation might be impaired.
(2) Location. Wall inlets shall be located at least twelve inches (12") below the design water surface. Bottom inlets shall be uniformly spaced with a separation distance of no greater than twenty feet (20') and with rows of inlets within fifteen feet (15') of each side wall. In any pool over sixty feet (60') in width, floor inlets should be provided. These shall be flush with the floor.
(3) Type. Inlet fittings shall be of the adjustable rate-of-flow type. Directional flow inlets shall be used with skimmer type pools. Inlets shall not extend from the floor or wall to create a hazard.
(4) Testing. Dye testing (crystal violet or equivalent) should be performed to determine and adjust the recirculation pattern.
(g) Main drains (for pools). Every pool constructed after July 15, 1998, shall have at least two hydraulically balanced main drains to the pool filter system installed in the pool floor at the deepest point. The minimum distance between the main drains shall be three feet (3') measured from center to center of the drains. If the floor of a spa pool is insufficient for a separation distance of three feet (3'), then the separation distance shall be as great as possible. The main drains shall be connected to a single main suction pipe by branch lines and the branch lines shall not be valved so as to be capable of operating independently. Pools constructed before July 15, 1998, shall have at least one main drain installed in the pool floor at the deepest point.
(1) Location. The main drains shall not be spaced at more than twenty feet (20') on centers and fifteen feet (15') from side walls and shall be connected in parallel.
(2) Grating. The main drain shall be protected by gratings or other approved covers having an opening sufficient to restrict water velocity to less than 1 1/2 feet per second through the grating. The maximum width of grate opening shall be one-half inch. Gratings or drain covers shall not be removable without the use of tools.
(3) Piping. Each main drain shall be connected to the recirculation system. The branch pipe from each main drain shall be designed to carry at least one hundred percent (100%) of the design recirculation flow rate. The single main suction pipe to the pump shall be equipped with a valve to control total main drain flow. The suction velocity in the pipe shall not exceed six feet per second (6 ft/s).
(4) Minimum flow. At least thirty percent (30%) of the total recirculation rate should flow through the main drains.
(5) A hydrostatic relief valve shall be provided at each main drain for in-ground pools.
(h) Surface skimmer systems (for pools). A surface skimmer system, perimeter overflow system or recessed automatic surface skimmers, shall be provided on all pools and shall be designed and installed to continuously remove all floating material, surface dirt and waste water. A perimeter overflow system shall be required on all pools which have a pool width exceeding thirty feet (30'), or a surface area of over one thousand six hundred square feet (1,600 ft2). Pools having a width of thirty feet (30') or less, or a surface area of one thousand six hundred square feet (1,600 ft2) or less shall be provided either with perimeter overflows or skimmers. A combination of perimeter overflow systems and skimmers may also be used when approved by the department. All overflow systems and skimmers shall be capable of continuously removing all floating material, surface dirt and waste water.
(1) Perimeter overflow systems. All pools shall be designed to provide continuous skimming from the pool's surface at a rate of at least one hundred percent (100%) of recirculation rate. In pools where perimeter overflow systems are provided, the following shall be met:
(A) Design. The perimeter overflow systems shall extend completely around the pool, except at steps or recessed ladders in the shallow portion and shall be level to a tolerance of one-eighth inch (1/8"). The gutter shall be capable of continuously removing one hundred percent (100%) of the recirculation water and return it to the filter.
(B) Size and shape. The gutters, drains and return piping to the surge tank shall be designed to rapidly remove overflow water caused by recirculation displacement, wave action or other causes produced from the maximum pool bathing load. Make-up water supply equipment shall be provided to maintain continuous skimming.
(C) The gutter shall be designed to serve as a handgrip and to prevent entrapment of bather's arms, legs and feet. It shall permit ready inspection, cleaning and repair.
(D) The overflow gutter outlets shall be provided with outlet pipes at least two inches (2") in diameter. The outlet fittings shall have a clean opening in the grating at least equal to 1.5 times the cross-sectional area of the outlet pipe.
(E) Drainage shall be sufficient to minimize flooding and prevent backflow of skimmed water into the pool.
(F) Surge capacity. All overflow systems shall be designed with an effective surge capacity of not less than one gallon for each square foot of pool surface area. Surge shall be provided within a surge tank, in the gutter or filter above the normal flow line, or elsewhere in the system. Surge tanks, gutters and filter tanks should have overflow pipes to convey excess water to waste. Surge tanks shall be provided with means for complete draining.
(2) Skimmers. Skimmers shall be designed and installed to prevent electrical hazards or short circuiting. Recessed automatic surface skimmers are permitted on pools where the width does not exceed thirty feet (30') and a water surface area is less than one thousand six hundred square feet (1,600 ft2). In pools where skimmers are provided, the following shall be met:
(A) Number. One skimmer for each four hundred square feet (400 ft2) of water surface area or fraction thereof shall be provided. Additional skimmers may be required to achieve effective skimming.
(B) Location. Skimmers shall be so located to optimize skimming of the entire water surface with minimum interference and placed so as to prevent short circuiting. Prevailing wind direction and the pool outline shall be considered in the selection of skimmer locations and the location of skimmers shall be such that the interference of adjacent inlets and skimmers is minimized.
(C) Capacity. The piping and other pertinent components of skimmers shall be designed for a total capacity of one hundred percent (100%) of the required filter flow of the recirculation system and no skimmer shall be designed for a flowthrough rate less than thirty gallons per minute per foot (30 gpm/ft) of weir length.
(D) Control. Skimmers shall have weirs that adjust automatically and operate freely and continuously with variations of at least four inches in water level. All skimmed water shall pass through an easily removable and cleanable basket or screen before encountering control valves or entering the pump suction line. Each skimmer shall be equipped with a device to control flow.
(E) Relief line. Skimmers shall include a device to prevent an air lock in the suction line. If equalizer pipes are used, they shall pass an adequate amount of water to meet pump suction requirements should pool water drop below the weir level. The equalizer pipes shall be located at least one foot below the lowest overflow level of the skimmer. A valve or equivalent device that will remain tightly closed under normal operating conditions, but automatically open when the water level drops below the minimum operating level of the skimmer, shall be provided on each equalizer pipe.
(F) Construction. Skimmers shall be installed in the pool walls, be sturdy and be constructed of corrosion-resistant materials.
(G) Handgrips. Rounded coping not more than two inches (2") thick or other handgrip adjacent to the pool wall shall be provided. The handgrip shall not be more than nine inches above the minimum skimmer operating level. When the handgrip is formed by the pool deck, it shall slope away from the pool with a one-inch (1") drop in a one-foot (1') distance.
(H) Testing. Flotation testing should be performed to determine and adjust the recirculation system for optimum skimming.
(i) Filtration. The filtration system shall be designed to maintain the required pool and/or spray pad water quality. A water treatment system shall have one or more filters. Filters shall be installed with adequate clearance and facilities for ready and safe inspection, maintenance, disassembly and repair.
(1) Sand filters. The design filtration rate of rapid sand filters shall not exceed three gallons per minute per square foot (3 gpm/ft2) of bed area at time of maximum head loss with sufficient area to meet the design rate of flow by the prescribed turnover rate. High-rate sand filters (pressure or vacuum) shall not exceed a filtration rate of fifteen gallons per minute per square foot (15 gpm/ft2) of bed area. For multiple-cell rapid sand filters, the rate of filtration shall not exceed three gallons per minute per square foot (3 gpm/ft2) of filter area. For multi-cell high-rate sand filters, filtration rate shall not exceed five gallons per minute per square foot (5 gpm/ft2) of filter area. The sand filter system shall be equipped to backwash each filter at a rate of twelve to fifteen gallons per minute per square foot (12 to 15 gpm/ft2) of filter bed area, or as recommended by the manufacturer. The backwash water shall be discharged to waste through a suitable air gap.
(A) Filter media. Sand or other media shall be carefully graded and meet the manufacturers' recommendation for pool use.
(B) Accessories. Influent pressure gauge, effluent pressure gauge, backwash sight glass and air relief valve shall be provided on all sand filters. Where multiple filter tanks are used a separate gauge panel shall be provided for each filter tank.
(2) Diatomaceous earth filters. The design filtration rate for pressure or vacuum type filters shall be no greater than 1.5 gallons per minute per square foot of effective filter area, except that a maximum filtration rate of two gallons per minute per square foot (2gpm/ft2) may be allowed where continuous application of filter material is provided ("body slurry feed," see below). The filter and all component parts shall be of such materials, design and construction to withstand normal continuous use without significant deformation, deterioration, corrosion or wear which could adversely affect filter operation.
(A) Precoating. Provision shall be made to introduce a precoat of diatomaceous filter aid to evenly cover the filter elements upon placing the equipment into initial operation and after cleaning. For pressure-type filters, the amount of filter aid shall be selected to provide at least the same protection to the filter element as that afforded by no less than 0.1 pound of diatomaceous earth filter aid per square foot of filter area.
(B) Backwash and precoating. Whenever the filter is backwashed or precoated, the filter piping shall be installed to permit continued recirculation of the water from the effluent back to the influent until a satisfactory clear effluent is produced prior to admitting the water into the pool, or to be discharged as waste water as an alternative.
(C) Body or slurry feeding. Where provided, the body feeding equipment designed for feed of filter aid to the filter influent shall be capable of applying not less than 0.1 pound of diatomaceous earth per square foot of filter area per 24 hours.
(D) Regenerative-type filters. Regenerative type of filters shall meet the same standards as pressure filters. Pumping by air or manual means shall be provided for and provision for visual inspection of elements shall be provided.
(E) Accessories for pressure-type filters. Each pressure-type filter requires a backwash sight glass, effluent pressure gauge, influent pressure gauge and air relief valve.
(F) Accessories for vacuum-type filters. A compound gauge which will indicate both positive and negative head shall be installed on the suction side of the pump. An adjustable high vacuum switch should be provided to prevent damage to the pump by cavitation.
(3) Cartridge filters. The design filtration rate for cartridge filters of depth type shall be less than three gallons per minute per square foot (3 gpm/ft2) of cartridge cylinder surface area. For surface type, the design filtration rate for cartridge filters shall not exceed 0.375 gallon per minute per square foot (0.375 gpm/ft2) of the pleated area of the cartridge. Influent pressure gauge, effluent pressure gauge and air relief valve shall be provided on all the filters. One complete extra set of filter cartridges shall be on hand at the facility's location.
(j) Flow measurement and control.
(1) Flow measurement. A means of continuously measuring rate of flow shall be provided in the recirculation system. For sand filters, the flow-measuring equipment shall be located where the backwash flow rate can also be determined. The indicator shall be capable of measuring at least 1 1/2 times the design flow rate and shall be accurate within ten percent (10%) of true flow. The indicator shall have a range of readings appropriate for the anticipated flow rates, and be installed where it is readily accessible for reading and maintenance, and with straight pipe upstream and downstream of any fitting or restriction in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation.
(2) Flow regulation. Where multiple pumps or filters are provided, each unit shall have a flow-regulating device installed. For spray grounds, automatic devices shall be provided for regulating the rate of flow through the filtration system and flow to the spray features.
(k) Water heater and thermometer (pools). A water heater shall be installed at all indoor pools. Heaters shall be installed in accordance with the standards contained in the Building Code and the manufacturer's recommendations. Heating coil, pipe or steam hose shall not be installed in a pool. Pools equipped with heaters shall have a fixed thermometer in the recirculation line downstream of the heater and another near the outlet of the pool.
(l) Disinfection and chemical feeders. Pools and/or spray pad treatment shall be designed to provide for continuous disinfection of the pool and/or spray pad water with a chemical which is an effective disinfectant and which imparts an easily measured, active residual. The pools and/or spray pad shall be equipped with a chlorinator, hypochlorinator, or other disinfectant feeder or feeders. An automatic controller shall be provided for continuous monitoring and adjusting the level of free residual disinfectant in the spray pad treatment tank. An automatic device shall be provided to deactivate chemical feeders when there is not flow in the spray pad treatment recirculation system. The feeder shall be automatic, easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance, and capable of providing the required chemical residuals which meet the following requirements:
(1) Design specifications. The feeder shall be of sturdy construction and materials which will withstand wear, corrosion or attack by disinfectant solutions or vapors, and which are not adversely affected by repeated, regular adjustments or other normal use conditions. The feeder shall not allow flow of unintended chemicals or those containing foreign materials into the pool and/or spray pad treatment. The feeders shall incorporate anti-siphon safeguards so that the disinfectant cannot continue to feed into the pool and/or spray pad treatment tank, the pool piping system, the pool enclosure, spray pad treatment tank, the spray piping system or the spray pad enclosure if any type of failure of the equipment occurs.
(2) Point of addition of disinfectant. All chemicals shall be fed into the return line after the pump, filter and heater unless the feeder is otherwise designed and specified by the manufacturer, and approved by N.S.F. and the department.
(3) Equipment capacity. Feeders shall be capable of supplying disinfectant to the pool and/or spray pad treatment in a range of chlorine demand of up to 10 mg/l or equivalent.
(4) Disinfection with bromine or solid forms of chlorine. Where bromine or chlorine in stick or pellet form is used as a disinfectant, equipment shall be provided for feeding on continuous feed.
(5) Disinfection with ozone. Ozone generating equipment (OGE) is acceptable only as a supplement to chlorine or bromine disinfection system. OGE and its components shall be listed by N.S.F. or other listings that are approved by the department and meet the following design standards:
(A) The ozone concentration in the pool water shall be less than 0.10 mg/l. Off-gassing of ozone shall not result in ozone levels exceeding 0.10 mg/l in the equipment room or in the pool area. When the OGE is installed and annually thereafter, the air space within six inches (6") of the pool water level and air in the equipment room shall be tested to determine compliance with this requirement.
(B) All corona discharge OGE systems shall be vacuum systems.
(C) Backflow of pool water into OGE shall not occur.
(6) Hypochlorinators (positive displacement pumps). Where positive displacement pumps are used to inject the disinfectant solution into the recirculation line, the following requirements shall apply:
(A) Feed. Feed shall be continuous at the proper addition rate under all conditions of pressure in the recirculation system without constriction of the recirculation pump suction.
(B) Solution tanks. If granular calcium hypochlorite is used, two solution tanks, each with minimum capacity of one-day supply, should be provided. All chemical containers including those used with chemical feeders shall be clearly labeled regarding their contents.
(7) Gas chlorination. Gas chlorination is prohibited. Chlorine gas shall not be used or stored except under permit from the Fire Department and in accordance with Building Code reference standards and as approved by the Department.
(8) Copper/silver and copper ion generators. All copper/silver and copper ion generators shall be approved by N.S.F. or equivalent which are approved by the department and are acceptable only as a supplement to chlorine or bromine disinfection system.
(9) Ultraviolet light disinfection units. All spray pad treatment systems shall provide ultraviolet light disinfection systems unless the provision of an alternative treatment process has been approved by the New York State Department of Health to be capable of providing the equivalent level of reduction of cryptosporidium as the ultraviolet light disinfection system specified in this article. The ultraviolet light unit shall be located between the spray pad treatment tank pump discharge and the spray features or as approved in accordance with 24 RCNY Health Code § 165.45(a)(2)(A). The following requirement for ultraviolet light shall apply:
(A) All ultraviolet light units must be validated with dosage by an independent agency with dosage. The validation process must determine the ultraviolet light unit's disinfection performance by indicating that a dose of 40mJ/cm2 (at end of lamp life) is achieved at a flow rate equal to or greater than the design flow rate at the setpoint intensity. The validation procedure used must have been determined by the State Department of Health to be capable of demonstrating the disinfection performance described above.
(B) For systems utilizing quartz sleeves to separate the water passing through the chamber from the ultraviolet source, the system shall be designed to permit cleaning of the lamp jackets and the sensor window or lens without mechanical disassembly. For systems utilizing polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface materials to separate the water that flows through the ultraviolet chamber from the lamps, the ultraviolet unit shall be designed to be readily accessible to the interior and exterior of the PTFE. The ultraviolet unit shall be designed to permit use of either physical or chemical cleaning methods.
(C) An accurately calibrated ultraviolet light intensity meter, properly filtered to restrict its sensitivity to the disinfection spectrum shall be installed in the wall of the disinfection chamber at the point of greatest water depth from the tube or tubes.
(D) An automatic system shall be installed to prevent flow to the features in the event the ultraviolet light intensity decreases below the validated set point.
(E) An automatic, audible alarm shall be installed to warn of ultraviolet light disinfection system malfunction or impending shutdown.
(F) The unit shall be designed to protect the operator against electrical shock or excessive radiation.
(G) Installation of the unit shall be in a protected enclosure not subject to extremes of temperature.
(H) A spare ultraviolet lamp and other necessary equipment to effect prompt repair by qualified personnel properly instructed in the operation and maintenance of the equipment shall be provided on-site.
(m) pH control. Mechanical feed equipment for the purpose of adding a chemical for pH adjustment shall be provided for all pools and spray grounds built. An automatic controller shall be provided for continuously monitoring and adjusting the level of pH in the spray pad treatment tank. The method of chemical addition shall protect the bather from contact with concentrated chemicals. Soda ash, caustic soda, sodium bisulfate, carbon dioxide gas, muriatic acid, or other chemicals approved for water supply use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, as food additives by the United States Food and Drug Administration, or by the Department, shall be used to raise or lower pool water pH. The method shall provide adequate distribution of the chemical throughout the pool and distribution shall be verified by pool water testing prior to bather exposure. Where carbon dioxide (CO2) is used as a method of pH control, the following features shall be provided:
(1) CO2 shall be injected into the recirculation pipe at the same point where pH adjustment solutions (i.e., acid) would normally be added. The recirculation pipe shall be of sufficient size and length to provide a minimum of five seconds contact time prior to bather contact.
(2) CO2 cylinders shall be anchored to prevent damage. Cylinders shall be inaccessible to the general public.
(3) The manufacturers' instructions shall be followed for installation and operation of cylinders. The units shall be operated by the pool operator as specified in the pool safety plan.
(4) CO2 cylinders shall be stored in a protective enclosure at the exterior of occupied structures. If CO2 cylinders are provided in the interior of occupied structures, they shall be placed in a ventilated enclosure.
(n) An automatic device shall be provided to deactivate chemical feeders when there is no flow in the recirculation system.
(o) Pool vacuum system and cleaning system (for pools). A cleaning system should be provided to remove sludge, sediment and other accumulations from the bottom of the pool. When a vacuum system is used as an integral part of the recirculation system, hose connections shall be located in the walls of the pool at least eight inches (8") below the waterline, and at such points that the floor of the pool can be cleaned with not more than fifty feet of suction hose.
(p) Spray Pad Treatment Tank (for spray grounds only). The spray pad treatment tank that receives the effluent water from the spray pad shall conform to the following specifications:
(1) Material. The spray pad treatment tank shall be constructed of materials which are inert, corrosion resistant, nontoxic, and watertight such as concrete, fiberglass, stainless steel, etc., which can withstand all anticipated loadings under full and empty conditions.
(2) Volume. The volume of the water in the spray pad treatment tank shall be sufficient to assure continuous operation of the filtration system. The capacity shall be measured from six inches above the uppermost pump inlet to the bottom of the overflow waste outlet.
(3) Controller. An automatic water level controller shall be provided for the spray pad treatment tank.
(4) Ready Access. The spray pad treatment tank must be designed to provide ready access for cleaning and inspections, and be capable of complete draining. An overflow pipe to convey excess water to waste through a suitable air gap must be provided.
(5) Backflow Prevention. The makeup water shall be introduced into the spray pad treatment tank through an air gap or by another method which will prevent back flow and back-siphonage.
(6) Screen. A screen or similar device shall be provided through which all water from the spray pad shall pass before entering the spray pad treatment tank or another method/process described to provide for removal of debris on the surface layer of the spray pad treatment tank water.
(7) Filtered/Treated Water Inlets. An adequate number of filtered or treated water inlets shall be provided and located for complete mixing and circulation of treated water within the spray pad treatment tank.
(8) Drain. At least one main drain suction outlet supplying water to the spray pad treatment tank filtration system shall be provided at the deepest point in the spray pad treatment tank.Source: City of New York, Charter, Administrative Code and Rules (American Legal Publishing XML export, codelibrary.amlegal.com)URL: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/newyorkcity/latest/NYCrules/0-0-0-47684Fetched: 10/25/2026