Swimming Pool Signage Laws in Florida
The Florida Department of Health oversees public swimming pools in the state. Public swimming pools are required by law to meet strict standards for safe operation. For instance, public swimming pools are required to post certain signage, depending on the kind and size of pool. The signage requirements for pools are outlined in Chapter 64 of the Florida Administrative Code.
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"Pool Closed"
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If a public pool fails to pass state inspection or is not in compliance with the Florida Administrative Code, a county division or department may affix a sign that reads, "Pool Closed. This pool is not in compliance with Chapter 64E-9, F.A.C., and may
endanger the health, safety or welfare of persons using this facility." The operator of the pool may not remove the sign until the deficiency is corrected and until the county health department authorizes the removal of the sign. Also, when a pool is closed for off-hours or due to inclement weather, operators must hang a visible sign indicating such. This "pool closed" sign should be inaccessible so that it may not be removed or violated by persons outside the fence or enclosed area.
Spa Pools
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Spa pools shall include signage that says the maximum water temperature 104º F; children under 12 must have adult supervision; pregnant women, small children, people with health problems and people using alcohol, narcotics or other drugs that cause drowsiness should not use spa pools without first consulting a doctor; and maximum use should be 15 minutes. This signage shall be posted in a conspicuous place. Signage should also be supplemented with a clock to assist the spa pool patron to meet the fourth requirement.
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Water Activity and Zero-Depth Entry Pools
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Water activity pools, such as wave pools, shall post signs that have the following provisions: "Do not swallow the pool water, it is recirculated" and "Do not use pool if you are ill with diarrhea." Zero depth entry pools shall post signs that read, "No-Entry, Shallow Water." These signs shall have letters four inches high and shall be located within two feet of the pool edge, spaced less than 15 feet apart.
Site-specific Signs
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Site-specific signage shall be provided, as needed. For instance, pools shall post a sign indicating the bathing load (maximum capacity of patrons). This sign should post safety guidelines, such as steep slopes, diving areas, deep water, dangerous wildlife or lifeguard not on duty. The sign shall also provide a key to explain all markings or symbols used around the pool (e.g. a "No Diving" symbol). One sign shall suffice for a bathing area shorter than 300 feet. Bathing areas longer than 300 feet shall post additional signs.
Restrooms
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A sign shall be posted directing patrons to the restroom facilities if these facilities are not immediately visible from any part of the pool deck. Directions should be legible, with the letters at least three inches tall. Restrooms should be cleared marked with signs designating the men's room, the women's room and, if applicable, a co-ed family room.
Markings
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Importantly, signage is different from "markings." Markings are defined as painted or tiled indications of depth, shallow areas and "no diving areas." Markings, like signage, are regulated by strict guidelines. For instance, markings must include letters at least four inches tall or symbols of the same size. Tile pools shall use tile markings on the inside of the tile wall; fiberglass, thermoplastic or stainless steel pools should indicate markings on an adjacent fence or wall that is easily recognizable from inside the swimming pool. Additionally, markings should be reinforced with paint on the deck, so that markings are visible to patrons outside the pool.
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References
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