New ICC Pool and Spa Code Public Version 1.0 Released

Calls announced for code change proposals, participation in code development committee; code will address fencing, decks, lighting, heaters, circulation systems, pumps, accessibility, diving, sanitizing equipment, filters and suction fittings

The International Code Council has launched the first edition of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) Public Version 1.0, which establishes minimum regulations for public and residential pools, spas and hot tubs using prescriptive- and performance-related provisions. Developed in cooperation with the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), PV 1.0 is available as a free download on the ICC website.

ICC has also announced that code change proposals to Public Version 1.0 will be accepted through March 1. Applications to serve on the 2011 ISPSC Development Committee that will hear proposed code changes to PV 1.0 are due by March 7. Development of the proposed code began in the fall of 2010 and was produced by a multidisciplinary drafting committee that included code officials, pool contractor experts, health department officials and more. Several specialized work groups were also created to assist in the detailed and highly technical drafting process.

The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code Public Version 1.0 is a comprehensive safety code created to coordinate and enhance, in a single document, the provisions previously found in many of the ICC International Codes and ANSI standards developed by the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals. The code covers a range of topics, including fencing, decks, lighting, heaters, circulation systems, pumps, accessibility, diving, sanitizing equipment, filters and suction fittings. It is the successor to an older code developed by SBCCI (one of the three legacy code organizations that combined to form ICC) known as the Standard Swimming Pool Code, and last produced in 1999.

ISPSC establishes minimum regulations for public and residential pools, spas, and hot tubs using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. Benefits of the code include the Code Council’s consensus model code development process that offers an international forum for industry professionals to, not only discuss the science and performance of these systems and devices, but how they relate and enhance public safety.

By combining, integrating and enhancing relevant sections of the International Codes, and the APSP standards, the new code will coordinate the necessary provisions in one document. Other substantial benefits to the new International Swimming Pool and Spa Code include:

• Meets or exceeds the requirements of the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Act for suction entrapment safety.
• Updated fencing and barrier requirements that integrate with IBC and IRC provisions.
• Provisions for pools and facilities geared specifically for waterparks.
• Incorporates provisions based on the latest research for diving, barriers, general design, and water quality safety.

The ISPSC development process will have two hearings in 2011, alongside another new ICC code under development, the 2012 International Green Construction Code. Code change proposals will be heard at the May 16 Code Development Hearings to be held in Dallas. Hearing results will form the basis for the Final Action Hearings to be held in October in Phoenix. The final version of the ISPSC will be published in early 2012. Ongoing participation by interested parties is encouraged throughout the development process, including providing testimony at hearings and submitting comments for consideration. More information on submitting proposals and the development schedule can be found at http://www.iccsafe.org/cs/ISPSC/Pages/DevSchedule.aspx

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), established in 1956, is the world’s largest international trade association for the swimming pool, spa, and hot tub industry, and has worked in tandem with ICC as a cooperating sponsor to develop the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code from the outset. Like ICC, APSP works with regulatory and legislative bodies to ensure that their codes, ordinances, and legislation are written to the safest and most current standards.

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety, fire prevention and energy efficiency, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states choose the International Codes, building safety codes developed by the International Code Council. The International Codes also serve as the basis for construction of federal properties around the world, and as a reference for many nations outside the United States.