The final deadline has passed for aquatic facility operators and owners to make sure they are compliant with the new provisions to the American Disabilities Act (ADA) regarding access to public pools and spas. Public pools around the nation should be compliant with the new rules and regulations to upgrade to include options for those who need assistance.
As of January 31, 2013, most public pools and hot tubs must have the means for disabled access. Larger pools will need two means of access. Pool and Spa Lifts have been viewed as the most practical and least expensive option, so they have been the most popular solution throughout the nation.
The facilities that violate the ADA rules and regulations will not be cited unless a lawsuit or complaint is filed. Just several weeks after the deadline, 21 pool specific lawsuits have been filed against hotels in the Indianapolis-area. The class action lawsuits are nearly identical, all citing a lack of pool lift or access. There are concerns that lawyers will be seeking out infractions just to pursue a lawsuit.
Owners and facility operators should make sure to get their pools ADA compliant to avoid fines or closure. If you have multiple pools or bodies of water, the Patriot Portable Lift or Scout Lift might be the perfect option to serve different areas. We also have several other affordable options to help your facility become compliant if you are not already.
In order to confirm your current pool lift is ADA compliant, make sure it has a lifting capacity of at least 350 pounds, a footrest that accompanies the seat into the water, except for spas. A manually cranked or manually rotated lift is not ADA compliant. If you want more details on the complete ADA compliance regulations, please visit http://www.ada.gov/.
Pool lifts come in all different shapes, sizes and options depending on how large your pool is and if you have multiple bodies of water or just one. You can purchase a portable option like the Patriot Portable Lift or a stationary lift like the Pro Pool and Spa Lift. There are options for both in ground and above ground pools, while some lifts might be for one or the other.
Pools And Stuff has a variety of options for pool lifts, aquatic wheelchairs and accessories for all of your ADA compliance needs. Our qualified staff can help figure out the best option for your pool set up to help you meet regulations, as well as offer free shipping in the 48 states.