Complying with North American pool accessibility regulations https://t.co/Nw6Xp3YCX0 pic.twitter.com/ksDNjZ5b3O
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Innovative solutions are essential in modern times. This is especially true for the pool industry where businesses with notoriously high overhead expenses are under pressure to adapt to current needs or be left behind. State-of-the art aquatic facilities must adapt to the rapidly changing world. This is a difficult task given the increasing cost of almost everything. These changes are often offset by strategies to make the facility more efficient, more accessible, and easier to use.
Participation is key to revenue. Accessibility has been overlooked historically but it is now a vital part of the business. Access to aquatics has been a struggle for disabled people. Although there have been many notable achievements, it is clear that accessibility has become a key aspect of pool management. 1
Pool lifts powered by water or batteries
The first significant milestone in pool access was 1980 when the first pool-powered lift was made. Although this was a significant development, there were limitations. The water hoses that fed the lift were a hazard and had to be removed. This was a costly and long-lasting installation that could cause problems later if repairs are needed. They also required a certain water pressure, which was sometimes difficult to attain. Additionally, the design of the lift required that a portion of it remain in the water. This made it vulnerable to corrosion. These factors led to the abandonment of water-powered lifts. The demand for battery-powered lifts was higher, as they could be placed on the pool deck and removed when necessary.
The first battery-powered pool lift was introduced in 1997 after the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act had been signed. This was years after the ADA did not specify any pool accessibility requirements. Although the first generation of pool lifts powered by batteries was a significant improvement over their water-powered counterparts, they were not as attractive or appealing on the pool deck.
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