R392-302-15. Depth Markings and Safety Ropes

  (1) The depth of the water must be plainly marked at locations of maximum and minimum pool depth, and at the points of separation between the swimming and non-swimming areas of a pool. Pools must also be marked at intermediate 1 foot, 30.48 centimeters, increments of depth, spaced at distances which do not exceed 25 feet, 7.62 meters. Markings must be located above the water line or within 2 inches, 5.8 centimeters, from the coping on the vertical wall of the pool and on the edge of the deck or walk next to the pool with numerals at least 4 inches, 10.16 centimeters, high as required in R392-302-39(3).

  (2) A pool with both swimming and diving areas must have a floating safety rope separating the swimming and diving areas. An exception to this requirement is made for special activities, such as swimming contests or training exercises when the full unobstructed length of the pool is used.

  (a) The safety rope must be securely fastened to wall anchors. Wall anchors must be of corrosion-resistant materials and must be recessed or have no projections that may be a safety hazard if the safety rope is removed.

  (b) The safety rope must be marked with visible floats spaced at intervals of 7 feet, 2.13 meters or less.

  (c) The rope must be at least 0.5 inches, 1.27 centimeters, in diameter, and of sufficient strength to support the loads imposed on it during normal bathing activities.

  (3) A pool constructed with a change in the slope of the pool floor must have the change in slope designated by a floating safety rope and a line of demarcation on the pool floor.

  (a) The floating safety rope designating a change in slope of the pool floor must be attached at the locations on the pool wall that place it directly above and parallel to the line on the bottom of the pool. The floating safety rope must meet the requirements of Subsections R392-302-15(2)(a),(b),(c).

  (b) A line of demarcation on the pool floor must be marked with a contrasting dark color.

  (c) The line must be at least 2 inches, 5.08 centimeters, in width.

  (d) The line must be located 12 inches, 30.48 centimeters, toward the shallow end from the point of change in slope.

  (4) The Department may exempt a spa pool from the depth marking requirement if the spa pool owner can successfully demonstrate to the Department that bather safety is not compromised by the elimination of the markings.