ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023) American National Standard for Model Barrier Code for Pools, Spas, ...

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American National Standard for Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs

Approved April 2, 2013

Reaffirmation Approved March 24, 2023

ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)
Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTubAlliance.Allrightsreserved.
Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.

SECRETARIAT:

Pool & Hot Tub Alliance

2111 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 22314 703 838-0083

www.PHTA.org

Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs

Approved April 2, 2013

Reaffirmation Approved March 24, 2023

American National Standards Institute Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTubAlliance.Allrightsreserved.

ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)

American National Standard

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the requirements for due process, consensus, and other criteria for approval have been met by the standard developer. Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of Standards Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly and materially affected interests. Substantial agreement means much more than a simple majority, but not necessarily unanimity.

Consensus requires that all views and objections be considered and that a concerted effort be made toward their resolution. The use of American National Standards is completely voluntary; their existence does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether he has approved this standard or not, from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the standards.

The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards and will in no circumstances give an interpretation of any American National Standard. Moreover, no person shall have the right or authority to issue an interpretation of an American National Standard in the name of the American National Standards Institute. Requests for interpretations should be addressed to the secretariat or sponsor whose name appears on the title page of this standard.

NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards Institute require that action be taken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard.

Important Notice about this Document

This voluntary standard has been developed under the published procedures of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The ANSI process brings together volunteers representing varied viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus.

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) does not write the standards. Rather, PHTA facilitates a forum for its members, and others interested in pool and spa design and safety, to develop standards through the consensus procedures of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). While the PHTA administers the process and establishes rules to promote fairness in the development of consensus, it does not independently test, evaluate, or verify the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained in its codes and standards. In issuing and making this document available, the PHTA is not undertaking to render professional or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity. Nor is the PHTA undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to someone else. The PHTA disclaims liability for any personal injury, property, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication of, use of, or reliance on this document.

The PHTA has no power, nor does it undertake, to police or enforce compliance with the contents of this document. The PHTA does not list, certify, test, or inspect products, designs, or installations for compliance with this document. Any certification or other statement of compliance with the requirements of this document shall not be attributable to the PHTA. Any certification of products stating compliance with requirements of this document is the sole responsibility of the certifier or maker of the statement. The PHTA, its members, and those participating in its activities do not accept any liability resulting from compliance or noncompliance with the provisions given herein, for any restrictions imposed on materials, or for the accuracy and completeness of the text.

ii
Copyright Notice Copyright ©2023 by The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, 2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314-4695. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, transcribed or transmitted, in any form or by any means or method, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without advance written permission from the publisher: The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, 2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314-4695. The APSP The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals® word mark and the APSP logo are trademarks of The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals registered in the U.S. The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance® word mark and logo are registered trademarks of The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals d/b/a Pool & Hot Tub Alliance registered in the U.S. © 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTubAlliance.Allrightsreserved.

Foreword

This Foreword is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023). It is included for information only.

The ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023), Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs, was approved by ANSI on March 24, 2023

This standard is a reaffirmation of ANSI/APSP-8 2005, Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs.

The object of this standard is to provide recommended minimum guidelines for layers of protection for young children against the potential for drowning and near drowning in residential pools, spas, swim spas, portable spas and hot tubs by limiting or delaying their access to these aquatic vessels.

It is also intended to assist local jurisdictions and other regulatory bodies, where necessary in the development and promulgation of criteria for residential pools, spas, swim spas, portable spas and hot tubs.

The words “safe” and “safety” are not absolutes. While the goal of this standard is to design and construct a safe, enjoyable product, it is recognized that risk factors cannot, as a practical matter, be reduced to zero in any human activity. This standard does not replace the need for good judgment and personal responsibility. In permitting use of the pool, spa, swim spa or portable spa by others, owners must consider the skill, attitude, training and experience of the expected user.

As with any product, the specific recommendations for installation and use provided by the manufacturer should be carefully observed.

This standard was prepared by the APSP-8 Model Barrier Code Writing Committee of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) in accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Essential Requirements: Due process requirements for American National Standards

Consensus approval was achieved by a ballot of the balanced APSP Standards Consensus Committee and through an ANSI Public Review process. The ANSI Public Review provided an opportunity for additional input from industry, academia, regulatory agencies, safety experts, state code and health officials, and the public at large.

Suggestions for improvement of this standard should be sent to The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, 2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22314.

This standard is published in partnership with the International Code Council (ICC). ICC develops and publishes the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), which are adopted as the basis for the building codes used in most states and jurisdictions within the United States. Additionally, PHTA and ICC have collaborated to develop the first comprehensive model swimming pool and spa code, known as the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. This landmark document incorporates and references material from ANSI/PHTA standards and ICC’s model codes, to create a stand-alone code that is consistent with codes and standards from both organizations.

These codes and standards are the result of a joint effort between ICC and PHTA as a service to both the swimming pool and spa community, and building code professionals. It is the hope of both organizations that they will lead to enhanced safety for pool and spa users around the world.

iii
© 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTubAlliance.Allrightsreserved.

Organizations Represented

Consensus approval in accordance with ANSI procedures was achieved by ballot of the following APSP Standards Consensus Committee. Inclusion in this list does not necessarily imply that the organization concurred with the submittal of the proposed standard to ANSI.

Producers

All American Custom Pools & Spas, Inc ...

Custom Pools, Inc

Gary Pools, Inc .....................

Hayward Industries

HornerXpress South Florida

Master Spas Inc ....................

Rosebrook Carefree Pools, Inc

Trilogy Pools Div. of Viking Pools LCC .....

S.R. Smith, LLC

Van Kirk & Sons, Inc

General Interest

American Hotel & Lodging Association

American Red Cross .................

Chesapeake Aquatic Consultants, LLC

Con-Serv Associates Inc. ..............

Conroe Independent School District, TX

Don Witte Consultant

National Environmental Health Association

(NEHA) ...........................

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

World Waterpark Association ...........

YMCA of the USA

Government/User

City of Martinsville, VA ................

City of Mount Dora, FL

Fairfax County, VA ...................

Green Oak Charter Township

Illinois Department of Public Health

International Code Council

New Jersey Dept. of Community Affairs

Division of Codes and Standards

North Carolina Building Office

Office of State Fire Marshall

Oregon Public Health Division

Washington State Dept. of Health

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

*non-voting

John Romano

Scott Heusser

Leif Zars

John O’Hare

Bill Kent

Nathan Coelho

John Bently

Ted Baudendistel

Bill Svendsen

Don Cesarone

Tony Mendez

Connie Harvey

Frank Goldstein

Wally James

Louis Sam Fruia

Don Witte

Florence Higgins

Michael Beatty

Rick Root

Albert Tursi

Kris Bridges

Tom Allen

Marc Mordue

Wayne Jewell

Justin DeWitt

Lee Clifton

Thomas Pitcherello

Helen DiPietro

Stephen Keifer

Gary Fraser

Mark Eilbert *

In accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) procedures, this document will be reviewed periodically. The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance welcomes your comments and suggestions, and continues to review all APSP and PHTA standards.

APSP-8 Writing Committee

JMK Plastering, Inc.

Newport Controls LLC . . ............. .

Pentair Water, Pool & Spa

Professional Pool Solutions, LCC . .. .. .. .

Swim, Inc.

Witte & Associates

Zodiac Pool Systems ............... ..

APSP Staff

Jeff McGalliard, Chairman

Lee West

Steve Barnes

Maria Bella

Dan Johnson

Don Witte

Shajee Siddiqui

Bernice Crenshaw, Director, Technical and Standards

Carvin DiGiovanni, Senior Director, Technical and Standards

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ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)
© 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub
Alliance.Allrights reserved.
v Contents Sections Page American National Standard .......................... ii Foreword iii 1 Scope 1 2 Normative References 1 3 Layers of protection ............................. 1 4 Barriers ...................................... 1 5 Supplements to barriers 2 6 Picket/ornamental fence ......................... 2 7 Chain link fence ................................ 2 8 Welded wire fence 2 9 Mesh restraining barrier/fence 2 10 Pedestrian access gates .......................... 3 11 Aboveground/onground pools 3 12 Wall of a building with four-sided fencing as a barrier 4 13 Screen enclosures .............................. 4 14 Covers 4 15 Natural topography 4 Appendices Page A Examples of barriers and fences ................... A-1 B Layers of Protection A-2 C Suction Entrapment Warning A-4 D Sources of Material ............................A-5 Figures 1 Example of mesh restraining barrier/fence A-1 2 Example of chain link fence A-1 3 Example of picket/ornamental fence................ A-1 4 Example of metal fence A-1 5 Example of release mechanism A-1 6 APSP safety brochure Layers of Protection ............A-2 © 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.
Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.

Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs

1 Scope and purpose

1.1 Scope. These requirements establish layers of protection for young children against the potential for drowning and near drowning in residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs by limiting or delaying their access to swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.

1.2 Purpose

1.2.1 The objective of these requirements is to establish provisions that address supervision, the foremost deterrent to unauthorized access to a pool, spa, or hot tub, and to prevent potential accidental drowning, both at times when a pool or hot tub is in use, and at times when it is not in use.

1.2.2 Additionally, in the event of a lapse in adult supervision, and particularly for the protection of children in the most at-risk age group (less than five years of age), who cannot yet appreciate or be instructed as to the risk of drowning, supplemental layers of protection are established. The supplemental layers of protection limit, detect, or delay access to an outdoor pool, spa, or hot tub from the surrounding area, and they limit, detect, or delay access to an indoor pool, spa, or hot tub from within the building where the walls of the building are the barrier, or part of the barrier.

2 Normative references

The following standards contain provisions that, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this American National Standard. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All standards are subject to revision, and parties to agreements based on this American National Standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the standards indicated below.

ASTM F1346-91 (2010), Standard performance specification for safety covers and labeling requirements for all covers for swimming pools, spas and hot tubs 1

ASTM F2208-08, Standard specification for pool alarms 2 UL 2017 (2008), Standard for general-purpose signaling devices and systems 3

3 Layers of protection

Every person in possession of land as owner, lessee, tenant, or licensee, upon which a residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is installed on or after the effective date of this code, shall comply with the following requirements.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Layers of Protection means that in addition to supervision, the pool, spa or hot tub is equipped with one or more devices to delay a child’s unsupervised access, or warn of the child’s presence as described in the options in Sections 4–15. (See also Appendix B: Layers of Protection.).

Constant adult supervision is the primary layer of protection. (See Section 1.2, Purpose).

3.1 Adult supervision. A person supervising children at a swimming pool shall meet the following requirements:

• A person of reasonable intelligence, ability, and knowledge;

•A person who is proficient in swimming;

•A person who shall be in the immediate vicinity of the pool; and

• A person who shall maintain visual contact with the pool, spa, or hot tub and/or the children and who shall not engage in activities not related to supervision.

4 Barriers

4.1 Means of protection. Every person in possession of land as owner, lessee, tenant, or licensee, upon which a residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is installed on or after the effective date of this code, shall provide a means of protection such as, but not limited to, the following:

• picket/ornamental fence;

• chain link fence;

• welded wire fence;

• battery or hard-wired alarms that comply with UL 2017;

• mesh restraining barrier/fence;

• stand-alone walls;

• building walls;

• screen enclosures;

•manual safety/powered safety covers complying with ASTM F1346; or

•natural topography.

4.2 Walls and fences. Walls and fences may be standalone or they may be used in combination with a building or structure.

1 ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)
1, 2. ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Dr, West Conshohocken, PA 19428, (610) 832-9585, www.astm.org
© 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights
3. Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062, (847) 272-8800, www.ul.com
reserved.

ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)

4.3 Top of the wall. The top of the wall/fence shall be at least 48 in. (122 cm) above grade measured on the side of the wall/fence that faces away from the swimming pool, spa, or hot tub.

4.4 Clear zone. There shall be a clear zone of no less than 36 in. (91 cm) between the barrier for or on a pool, spa, or hot tub and any permanent structures or pool equipment such as pumps, filters, heaters, etc., that can be used to climb the barrier.

5 Supplements to barriers

5.1 Backyard/pool area. Devices that detect unsupervised or accidental entry into the backyard or the pool or spa area are not to be used in place of the barriers listed in Section 4. These devices may be used only as a supplement to a barrier. These devices shall comply with ASTM F2208-08.

5.2 Pool/spa water. Devices that detect unsupervised or accidental entry into the pool, spa, or hot tub are not to be used in place of a barrier. These devices may be used only as a supplement to a barrier. These devices shall comply with ASTM F2208.

6 Picket/ornamental fence

6.1 The horizontal open-air spacing between pickets shall be a maximum of 4 in. (10 cm) between all vertical pickets and support posts. 4

6.2 The maximum vertical opening between grade and the lowest part of the fence, whether it is the bottom of the pickets or the bottom horizontal rail, shall not permit the passage of a sphere 4 in. (10 cm) in diameter.

6.3 Decorative detail shall not provide climbability. Maximum opening between decorative details shall be 1¾ in. (44 mm). (See Appendix A).

6.4 Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the distance between the tops of all consecutive horizontal members is less than 45 in. (114 cm), spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 1¾ in. (44 mm) in width, unless provided with a crossover deterrent at the top.

6.5 Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members, and the distance between the tops of at least two consecutive horizontal members is 45 in.

(114 cm) or more, spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 4 in. (10 cm). 5

6.6 The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the wall/fence shall be 4 in. (10 cm) from a solid surface.

6.7 The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the wall/fence shall be 2 in. (51 mm) from surfaces that are not solid, such as grass or gravel. 6

7 Chain link fence

7.1 Mesh size. The perpendicular distance between parallel sides of the link shall not exceed 1¼ in. (32 mm), which corresponds to a 1¼ in. (32 mm) mesh size (see Appendix A). 7

7.2 Clearance between grade and the bottom of the fence. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the wall/fence shall be 4 in. (10 cm) from a solid surface.

7.3 Clearance for grass and other surfaces. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the wall/fence shall be 2 in. (51 mm) from surfaces that are not solid, such as grass or gravel.

8 Welded wire fence

8.1 Specifications. Unless provided with a cross-over deterrent, where welded wire fences are provided, the vertical gap shall not exceed 4 in. (10 cm), the horizontal gap shall not exceed 2 in. (51 mm), and the fence shall be a minimum of 60 in. (152 cm) above grade.

8.2 Clearance between grade and the bottom of the fence. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the wall/fence shall be 4 in. (10 cm) from a solid surface.

8.3 Clearance for grass and other surfaces. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the wall/fence shall be 2 in. (51 mm) from surfaces that are not solid, such as grass or gravel.

9 Mesh restraining barrier/fence

9.1 Installation. Mesh fences shall be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that mesh fences cannot be readily removed.

9.2 Clearance. The bottom of the mesh restraining barrier/fence shall not be more than 1 inch (25 mm) above the deck or installed surface (grade).

9.3 Latching device. A latching device shall attach each barrier section at a height no lower than 45 in. (114 cm) above grade. Common latching devices may include, but are not limited to, devices that provide the security

2
4. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) 5. CPSC recognizes 4-inches (102 mm) in Safety barrier guidelines for home pools. 6. The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) recognizes 2 inches (51 mm)
© 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.
7. ISPSC recognizes 1¼ inches (32 mm)

equal to or greater than that of a hook-and-eye-type latch incorporating a spring-actuated retaining lever (commonly referred to as a safety gate hook). (See Appendix A for an illustration of mesh barrier/fence.)

9.4 Hinged gate. If a hinged gate is used with a mesh barrier, the gate shall meet the provisions of Section 10.

9.5 Patio deck sleeves. Patio deck sleeves (vertical post receptacles) placed inside the patio surface shall be of a nonconductive material.

9.6 Aboveground pools. Mesh fences shall not be used on top of aboveground pools.

10 Pedestrian access gates

10.1 Requirements. Pedestrian access gates in the barrier shall comply with the following requirements. These requirements apply to mesh barriers only if a hinged gate is used (see 9.4). The gate shall—

•be self-closing and self-latching;

•accommodate a locking device;

• open outward away from the pool, spa, or hot tub except when natural topography or other conditions dictate that it open inward; and

•comply with the requirements listed in Section 4.3.

10.2 Latches. Release of the latch for the gate shall be activated in accordance with 10.2.1 or 10.2.2.

10.2.1 The latch shall be located a minimum of 54 in. (137 cm) above grade (see Appendix A); or

10.2.2 The latch shall be located on the pool, spa, or hot tub side of the gate at a distance 3 in. (76 mm) minimum and 6 in. (15 cm) maximum below the top of the gate.

10.2.2.1 Size of openings. Where the release of the self-latching device is activated in accordance with Section 10.2.2, there shall be no opening greater than ½ in.(13 mm) in diameter within 18 in. (46 cm) of where the latch release is activated when the gate is closed.

10.2.3 Self-locking gates. Where a self-latching device is also self-locking and is opened by means of a key, electronic opener, or integral combination lock, it may be located at any height on the gate, so long as it does not negate the function of the gate; and said gate need not comply with 10.2.2.1.

10.3 Other access gates

10.3.1 Gates other than pedestrian access gates need not have a self-closing, self-latching feature, but shall be provided with a means to secure the gate when the gate is not in use.

10.3.2 Where the latch release mechanism is located less than 54 in. (137 cm) above grade, there shall be no opening greater than ½ in. (13 mm) in diameter within 18 in. (46 cm) of where the latch release is activated when the gate is closed.

11 Aboveground/onground pools

11.1 Pool wall

11.1.1 An aboveground/onground pool wall, itself, may be the barrier if the pool structure is on grade and the wall is at least 48 in. (122 cm) in height.

11.1.2 Where an aboveground/onground pool wall is less than 48 in. (122 cm) above the ground, it is not considered a barrier and, therefore, a barrier shall be provided in accordance with Section 4.

11.2 Barriers mounted on the pool structure. Other types of barriers can be mounted on the pool structure.

11.2.1 Where the barrier is mounted on the pool structure, the maximum vertical clearance between the top of the pool structure and the bottom of the barrier shall be 4 in. (10 cm). 8

11.2.2 Where a fence is mounted on top of the pool structure or deck, the top rail of the pool fence or deck fence shall be a minimum of 36 in. (91 cm) above the deck surface.

11.2.3 Mesh fences shall not be used on top of aboveground pools.

11.3 Ladders or steps. Where the means of access to the pool is a ladder or steps, then one of the following requirements shall be met:

•The ladder or steps shall be capable of being secured, locked, or removed to prevent access; or

•The ladder or steps shall be surrounded by a barrier that meets the requirements of Section 4; or

•A lockable, self-closing, and self-latching gate at deck level shall be provided.

11.4 Picket/ornamental fence. Where a picket/ ornamental fence is provided, the following requirements shall be met.

11.4.1 The maximum open-air spacing between all vertical pickets and support posts (vertical) shall not the passage of a sphere 4 in. (10 cm) diameter.

11.4.2 The maximum open-air spacing between the top rail of the pool and the lower horizontal bottom rail of the fence shall not exceed 4 in. (10 cm).

11.5 Deck. Where an aboveground/onground pool has a deck that abuts or is adjacent to a dwelling and

8. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

3 ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)
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reserved.

direct access to the deck is through the exterior wall of the dwelling, such access shall be in accordance with Section 12.

11.6 Visibility. Where fencing is required and/or provided with the pool or deck, the fencing shall have at least 65% open area to allow visibility from outside to inside the pool area.

12 Wall of a building with four-sided fencing as a barrier

12.1 Application. A wall of a building/dwelling may be used to form the barrier, or part of the barrier. The requirements in this Section shall apply to all residences with a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub when a wall of a building/dwelling serves as a barrier to said swimming pool, spa, or hot tub.

12.2 General. Where a building or dwelling wall serves as a barrier, a means of protection shall be provided to limit, detect, or delay access to the pool, spa, or hot tub through doors or windows in the building/dwelling wall.

12.3 Doors. Doors in the wall of a building/dwelling that allow direct access through the wall to the pool, spa, or hot tub area shall be provided with one of the following:

12.3.1 An alarm capable of detecting unauthorized entry through the door into the pool, spa, or hot tub area and that when activated, emits a sound of sufficient volume to be heard in the building/dwelling. The alarm shall meet UL 2017. The audible warning, at no less than 85 dB, measured at 10 ft (305 cm) from the alarm, shall commence not more than 7 seconds after the door and/or its screen, if present, are opened and shall sound continuously for a minimum of 30 seconds; or

12.3.2 A self-latching device on a self-closing door that is either:

•at least 54 in. (137 cm) above the floor level, or •at any convenient height if the device uses a key, electronic opener, or integral combination lock, so long as it does not negate the function of the door.

12.4 Windows

12.4.1 The lowest opening panel of a window shall not be located less than 48 in. (122 cm) above the floor.

12.4.2 There shall be no footholds wider than 0.4 in. (10 mm) on the internal wall below the lowest opening panel within approximately 42 in. (107 cm) of the lowest opening panel.

12.4.3 Windows in the wall of a building/dwelling that allow direct access through the wall to the pool, spa,

or hot tub area, and where the lowest opening is at a height of less than 48 in. (122 cm) above floor level, shall comply with one of the following:

•Windows shall be fixed in such a way that they will not open sufficiently wide enough to create a gap that will allow a 4 in. (10 cm) sphere to pass through; or 9

•Window guards, or other means of equal protection, shall limit access such that there are no openings large enough to allow a 4 in. (10 cm) sphere to pass through. 10

12.4.4 Windows Exemption. Windows that allow direct access through the wall to the pool, spa, or hot tub area where the lowest opening is at a minimum height of 48 in. (122 cm) above the floor level, and where there is no foothold in the building/dwelling wall, shall be exempt and considered equivalent protection to a barrier.

13 Screen enclosures

Screen enclosures that meet or exceed the door, wall, fence, and gate requirements of this standard are acceptable.

14 Covers

14.1 Covers for spas/hot tubs. A manual safety cover or a powered safety cover for a hot tub or spa that complies with ASTM F1346 is acceptable as a barrier when the spa/hot tub is not in use.

14.2 Covers for swimming pools. A manual safety cover or a powered safety cover for a swimming pool that complies with ASTM F1346 is acceptable as a barrier when the pool is not in use.

15 Natural topography

Natural topography that prevents direct access to the swimming pool, spa, or hot tub area shall include, but not be limited to, mountains and natural rock formations. A natural barrier approved by the governing body shall be acceptable so long as the degree of protection is not less than the protection afforded by manufactured or constructed means.

4
9, 10. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) © 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023) Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub
Alliance.Allrights reserved.

Appendix A

Examples of barriers and fences

This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023). It is included for information only.

If

If

This

A-1 ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)
Figure 1. Example of mesh restraining barrier/fence Figure 3. Example of picket/ornamental fence horizontal members are less than 45 in. (114 cm) apart, the space between vertical members shall not exceed 1 ¾ in. (44 mm) Figure 5. Example of release mechanism example shows the release mechanism located a minimum of 54 in. (137 cm) above grade. Figure 4. Example of metal fence horizontal members are 45 in. (114 cm) or more apart, the space between vertical members shall not exceed 4 in. (10 cm)
© 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.
Figure 2. Example of chain link fence

Appendix B

Layers of protection

This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023). It is included for information only.

Reminder to parents that these “layers” are backups to the primary means of accident prevention: Respons ible Adu lt Su pervision .

Important Safety Measures for Your Pool, Spa, or Hot Tub

1

Fencing

PURPOSE: To isolate the swimming pool by way of a minimum four-foot-high enclosure.

TYPES: a. Chain link; b.Wooden picket (if non-climbable); c. Ornamental; d. Portable fencing*; e. Natural barrier (thick hedge), if permitted by local code

*Purpose:To temporarily isolate a pool,spa,or hot tub when children are visiting.

Figure 6. PHTA safety brochure Layers of Protection

2

Automatic,Power Safety Covers

PURPOSE: An impenetrable covering that completely covers the pool,blocking access to water.Cover is operated electronically or by a key independent ofall other pool equipment.

TYPES: Meets ASTM F1346-91 (2003), Standard performance speci cation for safety covers and labeling requirements for all covers for swimming pools,spas,and hot tubs

For more safety brochures, visit www.PHTA.org, www.poolsafely.gov, or www.cdc.gov/healthywater/ swimming. For more information about suction entrapment warnings, see Appendix C.

A-2
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 3 13 16 10 15
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Manual Safety Covers

PURPOSE: An impenetrable covering that completely covers the pool, spa, or hot tub, blocking access to water.

TYPES: Meets ASTM F1346 Standard

Door Exit Alarms

PURPOSE: Warns parent or guardian when a child opens the door.

TYPES: a. Door announcer/chime; b. Home security system

Self-closing/self-latching devices for doors and latching devices for windows

PURPOSE: Keeps all doors and windows leading to the pool, spa, or hot tub area securely closed, limiting access by children.

TYPES: a. Hinge pin replacement; b. Sliding glass door closer; c. Swing arm

Fence Gate Closer & Latch

PURPOSE: To close and latch fence gates securely, making a pool,spa,or hot tub inaccessible to a child.

TYPES: Self-latching

Fence Gate Alarms

PURPOSE: Sounds when fence gate is open.

Infrared Detectors

PURPOSE: Wireless detection alarm that sounds when the area around the pool perimeter is entered.

TYPES: a. Light-beam; b. Body energy

Pool Alarms

PURPOSE: An alarm placed in the pool that sounds upon detection of accidental or unauthorized entrance into the water.

TYPES: a. Surface water (wave motion); b. Pressure waves (acoustic);c.Electronic monitoring system

Child Alarms

PURPOSE: An alarm clipped on the child that sounds when the child exceeds a certain distance or becomes submerged in water.

TYPES: Clip-on transmitter with in-home receiver

Rope & Float Line

A rope & oat line should be placed across the pool, alerting swimmers to the separation of the deep end from the shallow end of the pool.

Life Ring,Shepherd’s Hook

All rescue equipment should be placed near the pool in an easily accessible spot, and should be kept in good condition. ese can be used to pull someone in trouble to safety.

Posted Emergency Information

Post all CPR, other emergency information, andwarning signs, as well as the emergency phone number “911” (or other emergency medical service number), near the pool, spa, or hot tub.

Outside Telephone

A cordless or poolside telephone means parents don’t have to leave children unattended while they answer the phone. Also, it’s a good idea to have one handy to summon help, if needed.

Anti-Entrapment Drain Covers and Fittings

Current grates and covers help prevent body or hair entrapment. Make sure that drain covers meet the latest revision of ANSI/APSP-16. Safety doors should be installed in all pool cleaner wall suction lines. Pools, spas, or hot tubs with drain covers that are broken, missing, or not adequately secured should not be used until the proper replacement has been installed. Never allow children to play on or near drains, suction outlets, or jets.

ere is no backup layer of protection in the marketplace

today for a missing or broken drain cover, that will protect against all ve suction entrapment hazards.

Water Clarity

Clear water aids in identifying soakers and swimmers in distress, helps swimmers avoid collisions, and is an indicator that the sanitizer, circulation, and ltration systems are functioning. Poor water clarity suggests the presence of bacteria and/or algae or nutrients for their growth, and that the circulation and ltration systems may not be working e ciently to remove the contaminants from the water.

A-3
3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 9 10 15 16 © 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023) Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub
Alliance.Allrights reserved.

Appendix C

Suction Entrapment Warning

This

Drowning Hazard

Never play or swim near drains or suction fittings. Your body or hair may be trapped causing permanent injury or drowning.

Never enter the pool or spa if a suction fitting or drain cover is loose, broken, or missing.

Immediately notify the pool/spa owner or operator if you find a drain cover loose, broken or missing.

For further information contact The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: If you choose to display this warning device as a sign, please make sure that it conforms to ANSI/NEMA Z535.4-2002 Standard for Product Safety Signs and Labels, or latest revision.

A-4
American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005
Appendix is not part of the
(R2023). It is included for information only.
WARNING !
Visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website to read their entrapment guidelines at: www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/363.pdf Avoid Body Entrapment Avoid Drain Covers Avoid Evisceration Avoid Finger Entrapment Avoid Hair Entanglement © 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023) Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.

Appendix D Sources of Material

This Appendix is not part of the American National Standard ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023). It is included for information only.

ANSI American National Standards Institute

25 West 43rd Street

New York NY 10036

Tel: 212-642-4900

Fax: 212-398-0023

www.ansi.org

APSP Association of Pool & Spa Professionals

(formerly National Spa and Pool Institute)

2111 Eisenhower Avenue

Alexandria VA 22314

Tel: 703-838-0083

Fax: 703-549-0493

www.APSP.org

ASTM International Standards Worldwide

(formerly American Society of Testing & Materials)

100 Barr Harbor Drive

West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959

Tel: 610-832-9500

Fax: 610-832-9555

www.astm.org

CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

4330 East West Highway

Bethesda, MD 20814

Tel: 800-638-2772

Fax: 301-504-0124 and 301-504-0025

www.cpsc.gov

UL Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

333 Pfingsten Road

Northbrook IL 60062-2096

Tel: 847-272-8800

Fax: 877-272-8129

www.ul.com

A-5 ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023)
© 2023 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub
Alliance.Allrights reserved.
Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.
Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2023) American National Standard for Model Barrier Code for Residential Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs Familiarity with the ANSI/PHTA standards is essential for anyone who builds, manufactures, sells, or services pools, spas or hot tubs. 2111 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria VA 22314-4695 703.838.0083 standards@PHTA.org www.PHTA.org Copyright©2023ThePoolandHotTub Alliance.Allrights reserved.

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