Swimming Pools and Other Water Recreational Facilities Regulation

Swimming Pools and Other Water Recreational Facilities Regulation, M.R. 132/97 The Public Health Act , C.C.S.M. c. P210 Regulation 132/97 Registered June 13, 1997 bilingual version (HTML) Table of Contents Section PART 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS 1 Definitions 2 Application 3 Registration 4 Plans and specifications 5 Annual operating permit 6 House rules and warning signs required 7 Diving and diving equipment 8 Sanitation and hazards 9 Gas chlorination 10 First aid kit and telephone 11 Lighting 12 Personnel 13 Lifesaving stations 14 Maximum bathing load computation PART 2 SWIMMING POOLS AND WADING POOLS 15 Fences and access 16 Recirculation and water quality 16.1 Continuous filtration of recirculated water 17 Prohibition re swimming pools 18 Prohibition re whirlpools 19 Deck and drainage 20 Depth markings 21 Slope and walls 22 Ladders and stairs PART 3 PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS, WHIRLPOOLS AND RECEIVING BASINS 23 Lifeguards 23.1 Emergency procedures and instructions 23.2 Actions of lifeguard and assistant lifeguard if hazard exists 24 Access control 25 Sanitary facilities PART 4 SEMI-PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS 26 Signs 27 Safety 28 Pool use 29 Access control PART 5 MODIFIED POOLS 30 Recirculation and water quality 31 Slope 32 Lifeguards 33 Safety 34 Access control 35 Sanitary facilities PART 6 PUBLIC NON-CONFORMING POOLS 36 Prohibition re public non-conforming pools 37 Water quality 38 Lifeguards 39 Safety 40 Access control 41 Sanitary facilities PART 7 WADING POOLS 42 Slope 43 Attendant 44 Sanitary facilities PART 8 VARIATION OF REQUIREMENTS 45 Approval of types of pools not presently contemplated 46 Review and recommendation 47 Repeal 48 Coming into force Schedule A Diving Boards, Depth and Profile B First Aid Kit C Lifesaving Personnel and Lifesaving Stations C.1 Emergency Procedures and Instructions D Sanitary Facilities for Public Swimming Pools PART 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS Definitions 1 In this regulation, "alter" means to make or attempt to make any change to the structure of the basin of a swimming pool or the basin of an other water recreational facility or any modification of the recirculation system of any of them; (« modifier ») "artificial lake" means an outdoor, artificially constructed basin that (a) has a sand, clay or mud bottom, (b) is not lined with concrete, fibreglass, vinyl or similar material, (c) is intended for swimming, wading, diving or one or more other water recreational activities, (d) has a water depth greater than 60 cm, and (e) has a surface area greater than 1,500 m 2 ; (« lac artificiel ») "assistant lifeguard" means a person with the qualifications set out in subsection 12(2) who is responsible for assisting a lifeguard in the performance of the lifeguard's duties; (« assistant sauveteur ») "attendant" means a person 15 years of age or older who is appointed by the operator of a wading pool or a whirlpool used by the public to watch over the bathers while they are in or around the wading pool or whirlpool and to supervise bather safety; (« surveillant ») "bather" means a person who enters a swimming pool or other water recreational facility or its swimming area for the purpose of swimming, diving, bathing or otherwise using the water for recreation; (« baigneur ») "lifeguard" means a person with the qualifications set out in subsection 12(1) who is appointed by the operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility, except a wading pool, to watch over the bathers while they are in or around the facility and to supervise bather safety; (« sauveteur ») "lifesaving station" means the complement of water safety equipment listed in section 13; (« poste de sauvetage ») "maximum bathing load" means the total number of persons permitted in a swimming pool or other water recreational facility at any one time; (« nombre maximum de baigneurs ») "modified pool" means an outdoor, artificially constructed basin, lined with concrete, fibreglass, vinyl or similar material in which persons can swim, wade or dive and which has a water depth greater than 60 cm and a surface area greater than 930 m 2 ; (« piscine de construction spéciale ») "operator" means the person responsible for the day to day operation and maintenance of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility and includes the owner; (« exploitant ») "other water recreational facility" means a modified pool, a public non-conforming pool or a wading pool; (« autre installation de loisirs aquatiques ») "public health inspector" means an inspector as defined in The Public Health Act ; (« inspecteur d'hygiène publique ») "public non-conforming pool" means (a) a basin of water intended for swimming, wading or diving, which is not lined with concrete, fibreglass, vinyl or similar material, or (b) a swimming pool, a modified pool or a reservoir or natural body of water or portion of either of them designated as such by the minister, but does not include an artificial lake; (« piscine publique non conforme ») "public swimming pool" means a swimming pool being operated for use by the public or rented as a facility to a user group; (« piscine publique ») "receiving basin" means a swimming pool located at the lower end of a waterslide; (« plan d'eau ») "semi-public swimming pool" means (a) a swimming pool used in conjunction with a hotel, motel, condominium, multiple family development, apartment block, campground, club or similar establishment, or (b) a swimming pool or modified pool designated as such by the minister; (« piscine semi-publique ») "standard testing method" means a method for testing for bacteria in recreational waters approved in the latest edition of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater , published jointly by the American Public Health Association, the American Water Works Association and the Water Environment Federation; (« méthode de contrôle standard ») "swimming pool" means an artificially constructed basin, lined with concrete, fibreglass, vinyl or similar material in which persons can swim, wade or dive and which has a water depth greater than 60 cm, and includes a public swimming pool, semi-public swimming pool, whirlpool and receiving basin but does not include a modified pool, public non-conforming pool or wading pool; (« piscine ») "wading pool" means an artificially created basin, lined with concrete, fibreglass, vinyl or similar material intended for wading, and which has a water depth of no more than 60 cm; (« pataugeoire ») "whirlpool" means a swimming pool or hot tub that is designed primarily for therapeutic or recreational use, and that (a) is not drained, cleaned or refilled before use by successive users, (b) utilizes hydrojet circulation, air induction or hot water or any combination of them, and (c) is not operated solely under the supervision of a registered physiotherapist. (« baignoire à remous ») M.R. 108/2005 ; 237/2014 ; 51/2025 Application 2(1) This regulation does not apply to the following: (a) a swimming pool or other water recreational facility located on the property of a single family dwelling, used solely by the occupant of the dwelling or his or her guests; (b) an artificial lake. 2(2) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility operated prior to the coming into force of this regulation and amendments thereto is not required to make any structural, mechanical or electrical change to meet the requirements of this regulation except that the swimming pool or facility shall meet the requirements of subsections 8(2) and (3) respecting hazards, section 9 respecting gas chlorination, section 15 respecting fencing and access, section 16 respecting recirculation and water quality and section 18 respecting whirlpools. 2(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2), no person shall alter a swimming pool or other water recreational facility unless the person complies with and the alteration meets the standards and specifications of this regulation. M.R. 237/2014 Registration 3 No person shall construct or alter a swimming pool or other water recreational facility without first registering it with the minister by completing and filing a registration form approved by the minister and by submitting the specifications and drawings required by that form. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Plans and specifications 4(1) Specifications or drawings required to be filed with a registration form under section 3 shall, where specified in the form, bear the seal of a person who is entitled to practice professional engineering in the province pursuant to The Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act . 4(2) No person shall construct a swimming pool or other water recreational facility that does not meet the requirements of this regulation or conform to the design and specifications submitted to the minister under section 3. 4(3) No person shall set into operation a new or altered swimming pool or other water recreational facility for which a permit is required under this regulation unless the operator provides to a public health inspector (a) the certificate of a professional engineer certifying that the completed construction or alteration of the pool or facility is in accordance with the design and specifications submitted to the minister under section 3; or (b) such other information as the inspector may require, if the design and specifications referred to in subsection (1) did not require a professional engineer's seal. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Annual operating permit 5(1) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall apply annually to a public health inspector for a permit to operate the pool or facility. 5(2) An application for a permit referred to in subsection (1) shall be made by completing and filing, in the prescribed manner, an application on a form approved by the minister. 5(3) No person shall operate a swimming pool or other water recreational facility unless they hold a valid and subsisting annual operating permit issued by a public health inspector under this section. 5(4) The permit referred to in this section shall (a) be in a form approved by the minister; (b) in the case of a facility operated year round, be obtained prior to the initial date of operation and annually thereafter; (c) in the case of a facility operated seasonally, be obtained prior to the initial date of operation and prior to reopening in each year of operation; and (d) be posted in a conspicuous location at the swimming pool or other water recreational facility; (e) [repealed] M.R. 108/2005 . 5(4.1) An annual operating permit expires on the earlier of (a) the expiry date, if any, shown on the permit; (b) the date that is one year after the date the permit was issued; or (c) the date of transfer of ownership of the swimming pool or other water recreational facility. 5(5) A public health inspector may withhold or suspend an annual operating permit if the swimming pool or other water recreational facility is not constructed, maintained or operated in compliance with the provisions of this regulation. 5(6) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall ensure that the maximum bathing load as specified on the annual operating permit is not exceeded at any time the pool or facility is in operation. 5(7) A public health inspector may, where he or she considers it necessary for the safety of bathers, include operational conditions in the annual operating permit. 5(8) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall comply with any operational conditions in the annual operating permit. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 House rules and warning signs required 6(1) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall post in a conspicuous location, within the pool area or facility, a sign listing all house rules. 6(2) The house rules required by subsection (1) shall include, in addition to those specified by the operator, the following: (a) no person infected with a communicable disease or having open sores on his or her body shall enter the water; (b) no person shall bring a glass container onto the deck area of the pool or facility; and (c) no person shall engage in play hazardous to other persons in and around the pool or facility. 6(3) In addition to complying with the other requirements of this section, the operator of a whirlpool shall post a sign with the following advisory in a conspicuous location adjacent to the whirlpool: WARNING: Long hair must be restrained or tied up to minimize risk of being caught in the equipment. Keep head above water at all times. No person shall remain in the whirlpool longer than 10 minutes. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 6(4) Unless otherwise specified in the annual operating permit, the wording on a sign required under subsections (1) to (3) shall be of letters not less than 2.5 cm in height and on a contrasting background. M.R. 108/2005 Diving and diving equipment 7(1) Where diving boards or platforms less than 3 m in height are provided at a swimming pool or other water recreational facility the operator shall ensure that the depth of the water, profile of the pool floor and all clearances are in accordance with Schedule A. 7(2) An operator shall ensure that (a) where a diving board 1 m in height is provided, there is a minimum overhead clearance of 4.8 m measured as the distance between the diving board and the ceiling; and (b) where a deck level board is provided, there is a minimum overhead clearance of 3.7 m measured as the distance between the diving board and the ceiling. 7(3) Where diving boards or diving platforms 3 m or greater in height are provided, the operator of the swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall ensure that the depth of the water, profile of the pool floor and all clearances meet the applicable requirements for diving facilities set out in the latest version of the Competition Regulations issued by World Aquatics, as amended from time to time. 7(4) Where a swimming pool or other water recreational facility, except a whirlpool or wading pool, does not meet the depth and profile requirements set out in Schedule A, the operator shall (a) prohibit diving at the swimming pool or facility; and (b) ensure that (i) the words "No Diving" in letters not less than 10 cm in height on a contrasting background are painted or otherwise permanently displayed on the pool deck on all sides of the pool spaced at intervals of no more than 8 m; or (ii) the universal no diving symbol not less than 10 cm in height is painted or otherwise permanently displayed on the pool deck on all sides of the pool and spaced at intervals of no more than 8 m. 7(5) Notwithstanding subsection (4), a qualified lifeguard may carry on diving instruction in a swimming pool or other water recreational facility that does not meet the requirements of Schedule A. M.R. 51/2025 Sanitation and hazards 8(1) No person shall operate a swimming pool or other water recreational facility unless: (a) the deck, change, shower and washroom areas are kept clean, sanitary and in good condition; (b) the pool water and the pool walls and floor are kept free of visible dirt, litter, oil, algae and other foreign material; (c) adequate supplies of hand soap, hand towels, covered receptacles and toilet paper are provided. M.R. 51/2025 8(2) No person shall operate a swimming pool or other water recreational facility where there are protrusions, means of entanglement or other hazards that might cause injury to a bather or other person in or around the swimming pool or facility. 8(3) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall ensure that the drains and water recirculation facilities are designed, constructed and operated in such a manner to prevent entrapment of a bather due to suction or any other means. 8(4) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility constructed or altered after July 1, 2005, other than a whirlpool, shall ensure that the pool or facility is equipped with not less than two interconnected drain outlets separated by a horizontal distance of 1 m or more. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Gas chlorination 9 No person shall operate a swimming pool or other water recreational facility where chlorine gas is used as a disinfectant unless: (a) the chlorination equipment room is located above ground level with only one door, and that door opens in an outward direction and directly to the outdoors; (b) the chlorination equipment room is equipped with an emergency mechanical ventilation system which (i) takes in air at floor level within the room, (ii) discharges air from the room directly to the outdoors in a place remote from air intake structures and occupied areas, (iii) is of sufficient capacity to produce 30 air changes per hour, and (iv) is activated by a combination light and fan switch located outside the room and beside the viewing window; (c) all openings in the chlorination equipment room other than those for ventilation, exits and entrances shall be sealed with elastomeric caulking compound; (d) self-contained, full-face, respiratory protective equipment for use in a chlorine contaminated atmosphere, a two-piece rubber suit, rubber boots and rubber gloves are provided and located outside the chlorination equipment room and near enough for immediate use in case of an emergency; (e) the chlorination equipment room door is locked at all times and the key to the room made available only to staff members trained in the handling of chlorine; (f) the chlorine-valve protection hood is kept in place, except when the cylinder is connected to the chlorinator; (g) all chlorine cylinders are securely anchored; (h) a valve-stem wrench is maintained on the chlorine cylinder or cylinders in use; (i) a weigh scale of suitable capacity for measuring the weight of liquid chlorine and cylinder is provided in the chlorination room; (j) the chlorination room is equipped with a viewing window; (k) [repealed] M.R. 108/2005 ; (l) the chlorinator will automatically cease operation in conjunction with the shutdown of the recirculating pumps; (m) the door to the chlorination equipment room is equipped with panic hardware to permit access to the outdoors; and (n) [repealed] M.R. 92/2000 . M.R. 92/2000 ; 108/2005 First aid kit and telephone 10(1) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall provide a first aid kit which contains those articles prescribed in Schedule B, which shall be located in close proximity to the pool area and under the direct control of a lifeguard, attendant or operator. 10(2) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall provide a readily accessible telephone, or such other means of contacting emergency assistance as may be approved by a public health inspector. M.R. 108/2005 Lighting 11(1) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility located indoors shall provide a lighting system that will maintain, at any point on the deck and the pool water surface, an illumination of not less than 200 lx and an instantaneous automatic emergency lighting source to facilitate prompt evacuation in case of a power outage. 11(2) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility located outdoors and operated after sundown shall provide a lighting system that will maintain, at any point on the deck and the pool water surface, an illumination of not less than 100 lx and an instantaneous automatic emergency lighting source to facilitate prompt evacuation in case of a power outage. Lifeguard and assistant lifeguard qualifications 12(1) In order to act as a lifeguard, a person must (a) be at least 15 years of age; (b) hold current Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard certification (Pool); and (c) hold current intermediate level first aid and CPR level C certification issued by a provider approved by the minister. 12(2) In order to act as an assistant lifeguard, a person must (a) be at least 15 years of age; (b) hold current Lifesaving Society Bronze Cross certification; and (c) hold current intermediate level first aid and CPR level C certification issued by a provider approved by the minister. M.R. 108/2005 ; 68/2015 ; 51/2025 Lifesaving stations 13(1) A lifesaving station shall include (a) a stable, elevated lifeguard station that provides a clear line of sight to the area to be supervised; and (b) one or both of the following swimming aids: (i) a non-conductive reaching pole of 3.6 m or more in length, (ii) a lightweight, buoyant throwing device, securely attached to a rope of a length greater than half the width of the pool. 13(2) An operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility shall ensure that the pool or facility has an equal number of each type of swimming aid described in clause (1)⁠(b). M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Maximum bathing load computation 14(1) The maximum bathing load in a swimming pool or other water recreational facility other than a whirlpool or a wading pool, shall not exceed one person for each 1.5 m 2 of water surface area of the swimming pool or other water recreational facility or the maximum design bathing load for the water recirculation system of the swimming pool or other water recreational facility, whichever is less. 14(2) The maximum bathing load in a whirlpool shall not exceed one person for each square metre of water surface area or the maximum design bathing load for the water recirculation system, whichever is less. 14(3) For the purposes of this section, only persons in the water of the swimming pool, other water recreational facility or whirlpool or in the course of using the water shall be taken into consideration in determining whether or not the swimming pool, facility or whirlpool is operating within its maximum bathing load at any time. M.R. 92/2000 PART 2 SWIMMING POOLS AND WADING POOLS Fences and access 15(1) Subject to subsections (4) and (5), no person shall operate an outdoor swimming pool or wading pool unless the facility is enclosed by a fence or other barrier that (a) has a minimum vertical height of 1.8 m as measured from the exterior of the fence or barrier; (b) is constructed so that access to the pool cannot be gained through or under it; (c) has a self-closing lockable gate at least 1.8 m in height as measured from the exterior of the gate through or under which access to the pool cannot be gained when closed; (d) if constructed of chain link material, has a mesh size that does not exceed 5.5 cm and a wire size of number 9 gauge or more; and (e) if constructed of material other than chain link material, the outside surface of the fence or gate is sufficiently smooth so as not to provide foot or toe holds. 15(2) No person shall operate an outdoor swimming pool or wading pool unless (a) the gate is tightly closed and locked at all times the pool is not in operation; (b) the fence and gate are maintained in good repair; and (c) the area outside the fence and gate is clear of any objects or fixtures that could assist a person in climbing over the fence or gate. 15(3) No person shall fill an outdoor swimming pool or wading pool until the fence and gate required by subsection (1) are erected. 15(4) Notwithstanding subsection (1), a fence or barrier is not required for a whirlpool or wading pool where (a) the pool is completely drained after operating hours; and (b) an attendant personally supervises (i) the draining of the pool until it is completely empty of water, and (ii) the filling or refilling of the pool. 15(5) Notwithstanding subsection (1), where access to an outdoor swimming pool or wading pool is adequately restricted by means other than a fence or barrier, the operator may be exempted from the requirements of this section subject to such terms and conditions as may be specified on the annual operating permit. M.R. 51/2025 Recirculation and water quality 16(1) No person shall operate a swimming pool or wading pool unless (a) disinfectant is added to the water in the pool automatically at all times the pool is in use; (b) the quantity of disinfectant in the water in the pool, at all times the pool is in use, (i) in the case of a swimming pool other than a whirlpool or of a wading pool, is maintained within the range of 1.0 mg/l to 5.0 mg/l of free available chlorine or equivalent, and (ii) in the case of a whirlpool, is maintained within the range of 1.0 mg/l to 5.0 mg/l of free available chlorine, 2.0 mg/l to 6.0 mg/l of total bromine residuals, or equivalent; (b.1) the combined chlorine residual level in the pool is not more than 1.5 mg/l; (b.2) in the case of a swimming pool or wading pool in which cyanuric acid is used, the cyanuric acid concentration is maintained at a concentration of 50 mg/l or less; (c) the hydrogen ion concentration of the water in the pool is maintained within the range pH 7.2 to pH 7.8 unless otherwise approved by a public health inspector; (d) the water in the pool is sufficiently circulated over the entire surface and depth of the pool; (e) the water in the pool and the recirculation system is separated from the make-up water supply and from the sewer or drainage system into which it drains by air gaps or other back-flow preventers; and (f) the bacteriological quality of the water (i) is such that less than one total coliform organism is detected in 100 ml of pool water as determined by a standard testing method for total coliform, and (ii) in a whirlpool, in addition to meeting the requirement of subclause (i), is such that Pseudomonas aeruginosa is not detected in 100 ml of pool water as determined by a standard testing method for Pseudomonas aeruginosa . 16(2) In addition to meeting the requirements of subsection (1), an operator shall conduct such other water quality tests in the number and frequency as may be required by a public health inspector, and shall provide the results of the tests to the inspector in the form and within the time required by him or her. M.R. 92/2000 ; 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Continuous filtration of recirculated water 16.1 In addition to the requirements of section 16, all swimming pools constructed or altered after July 1, 2005, shall have continuous filtration of recirculated water. M.R. 108/2005 Prohibition re swimming pools 17(1) No person shall operate a swimming pool unless the pool water is sufficiently clear to permit a black disc 15 cm in diameter on a white background located on the bottom of the pool at its deepest point to be clearly visible from any point on the deck of the pool or to a distance of 9 m from the disc whichever is the lesser. 17(2) No person shall operate a swimming pool or a wading pool unless reliable testing equipment is available at the pool for the purpose of measuring (a) pH levels; (b) total chlorine levels and the level of free available chlorine residuals in increments of no greater than 0.2 mg/l or the level of any chlorine equivalent disinfectant residuals in increments of no greater than 0.2 mg/l; and (c) cyanuric acid levels, in the case of a swimming pool or wading pool in which cyanuric acid is used. 17(3) No person shall operate a swimming pool or wading pool unless he or she ensures that (a) water quality tests are done in the number and frequency (i) as necessary to ensure, or (ii) as a public health inspector may direct as necessary to ensure, that, at all times the pool is in use, the quality of the pool water meets the requirements of sections 16 and 17 for the particular type of pool; and (b) operating records showing the following information are maintained on site for a period of one year from the date of making the record: (i) times and results of all pH tests done, (ii) times and results of all tests done to measure disinfectant residual levels and combined chlorine residual levels, (iii) times and results of all tests done to measure bacteria content, (iv) times and results of any other tests that may be taken from time to time. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Prohibition re whirlpools 18 In addition to complying with sections 16 and 17, a person who operates a whirlpool shall ensure that (a) it is equipped with an emergency shut-off switch for the hydrojet system that is clearly marked and visible from the pool; (b) it is equipped with an automatic high temperature limit cut-off switch that limits the maximum water temperature to 40 o C; (c) it is equipped with (i) not less than two interconnected drain outlets separated by a horizontal distance of 30 cm or more and located within 30 cm of the bottom of the pool, (ii) one anti-vortex grate that does not present a tripping or stumbling hazard to a user of the pool, or (iii) any other approved means of drainage or equipment that guards against bather entrapment; and (d) any drain opening in the pool is equipped with a cover that requires a tool for its removal. M.R. 92/2000 Deck and drainage 19(1) Subject to subsection (2), no person shall operate a swimming pool or wading pool unless (a) there is a minimum width of 1.3 m of unobstructed, hard surface deck surrounding the pool basin, excluding diving, safety and waterslide facilities, and such other facilities or features as may be approved by a public health inspector; (b) the deck of an indoor swimming pool or wading pool is provided with drains to effectively prevent ponding of water; (c) drainage water from the deck is directed to a waste system separate from the pool water; and (d) the deck of an outdoor swimming pool or wading pool is provided with drains or sloped away from the pool to prevent ponding of water. 19(2) Notwithstanding clause (1)⁠(a), if a whirlpool has a water surface area of 7 m² or less, the deck may be less than 1.3 m wide on 50% of the perimeter of the pool. 19(3) No person shall construct, install or alter a whirlpool such that the vertical distance between the upper lip of the whirlpool and the deck is more than 0.4 m. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Depth markings 20(1) No person shall operate a swimming pool, other than a whirlpool, that is in operation on the day that this regulation comes into force unless the water depths are clearly and permanently marked on the deck in numbers and letters 10 cm or more in height, in a contrasting colour, indicating the deep points, the shallow points and the breaks between gentle and steep bottom slopes. 20(2) No person shall construct or operate a swimming pool constructed after the day on which this regulation comes into force, other than a whirlpool, unless (a) the water depths, measured in metres, are clearly and permanently marked on the edge of the deck next to the pool and on all sides of the pool above the normal waterline in numbers and letters 10 cm or more in height, in a contrasting colour, (i) at the maximum and minimum depths, (ii) at the points of change of slope between deep and shallow areas, and (iii) at intermediate increments of depth, separated by a horizontal distance of 8 m or less; and (b) wherever a transition occurs from one bottom slope to a slope of a greater degree, the transition is marked on the bottom and walls of the pool by a stripe of dark contrasting colour 15 cm or more wide. 20(3) Unless otherwise approved by a public health inspector, no person shall operate a whirlpool unless the maximum water depth is permanently marked and clearly visible at a minimum of two locations on or adjacent to the whirlpool. M.R. 92/2000 Slope and walls 21(1) No person shall operate a swimming pool unless the floor of the swimming pool basin has a uniform slope not greater than (a) 1 m vertical in 12 m horizontal, where the water depth is less than or equal to 1.5 m; (b) 1 m vertical in 3 m horizontal, where the water depth is greater than 1.5 m but less than 2 m; and (c) 1 m vertical in 2 m horizontal, where the water depth is greater than or equal to 2 m. 21(2) An operator shall ensure that except as provided in subsection (3), the walls of the swimming pool shall be vertical. 21(3) No person shall construct or operate a swimming pool with a curvature at the intersection of the wall and floor (a) with a maximum radius of more than 15 cm where the water depth is 1.2 m or less; and (b) with a maximum radius equal to the water depth minus 1.1 m where the water depth is more than 1.2 m. 21(4) [Repealed] M.R. 108/2005 Ladders and stairs 22(1) The operator of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility, other than a whirlpool, shall provide: (a) where the width of the pool is 6 m or less, a ladder or other suitable means of egress at each end of the pool; (b) where the width of the pool is more than 6 m, a ladder or other suitable means of egress on each side of the pool at each end. 22(1.1) Notwithstanding subsection (1), if the pool or other facility was constructed or altered after July 1, 2005, and (a) has a zero grade entry; (b) has walk-in stairs; or (c) is not rectangular in shape; the number and location of means of egress shall be as approved by a public health inspector. 22(2) Where the means of egress provided under subsection (1) or (1.1) includes a ramp or stairs, the operator shall ensure that each ramp or set of stairs is equipped with a securely fastened, corrosion resistant handrail. 22(3) Where the means of egress provided under subsection (1) or (1.1) includes stairs, the operator shall ensure that (a) the stair treads are covered in a non-slip, durable material impervious to moisture; and (b) the edges of the stair treads are marked with a stripe 2.5 cm to 5 cm wide in a contrasting colour. M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 PART 3 PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS, WHIRLPOOLS AND RECEIVING BASINS Lifesaving personnel and lifesaving stations 23(1) Subject to subsections (3) and (5), the operator of a public swimming pool must provide bather supervision and lifesaving stations in accordance with this section at all times the pool is in operation. 23(1.1) The minimum number of lifeguards and assistant lifeguards that must be on deck and the minimum number of lifesaving stations that must be accessible at poolside are set out in Schedule C. 23(1.2) In addition to the minimum requirements set out in Schedule C, the operator of a public swimming pool must ensure additional lifeguards or assistant lifeguards are on deck if their presence is necessary to ensure all areas of the pool can be continuously observed by a lifeguard or assistant lifeguard. 23(1.3) When providing additional lifeguards or assistant lifeguards under subsection (1.2), the number of additional assistant lifeguards provided must not exceed the number of additional lifeguards provided. 23(2) The operator of a public swimming pool shall ensure that: (a) when there are fewer than 31 bathers in the pool area, a minimum of two persons are on duty at all times the pool is open, including one lifeguard on deck, and one other person on deck or in the immediate vicinity of the pool who (i) is at least 15 years of age, (ii) holds current intermediate level first aid and CPR level C certification issued by a provider approved by the minister, and (iii) is knowledgeable about the pool's emergency procedures and instructions; (b) the lifesaving stations required under Schedule C are situated in relation to the pool to ensure maximum surveillance of the water surface. 23(2.1) The operator of a public swimming pool shall implement policies respecting the use of the pool by organized groups. These policies shall take into account the configuration of the pool and the type of bather activities allowed in the pool, including the use of playmats, aquatic toys and other similar objects, and address factors relating to the following: (a) the bathers' ages; (b) their heights compared to the depth of the pool; (c) their swimming abilities; (d) whether there are persons accompanying the bathers who are able to provide direct supervision or whether there is a need to increase the number of lifeguards, assistant lifeguards and lifesaving stations above the minimum requirements set out in this regulation. 23(2.2) The operator of a public swimming pool shall ensure that the policies implemented under subsection (2.1) are posted in a place accessible to staff. 23(2.3) The operator of a public swimming pool shall ensure that it complies with the policies implemented under subsection (2.1). 23(3) Where instruction takes place in a public swimming pool, the instructor, provided he or she possesses the qualifications of a lifeguard, may serve as the lifeguard for the number of bathers he or she is instructing. 23(4) Where a public swimming pool is a whirlpool and is not in conjunction with any other water recreational facility at which the supervision of a lifeguard is required, the operator shall ensure that an attendant is on duty at all times the whirlpool is in operation. 23(5) Where a public swimming pool is used only as a receiving basin for one or more waterslides, lifesaving stations are not required but the operator shall ensure that (a) if one or two waterslides end at the basin, at least one lifeguard is stationed at the basin; and (b) if three or more waterslides end at the basin, at least one lifeguard and one assistant lifeguard are stationed at the basin. 23(6) Where a public swimming pool is used both as a receiving basin for one or more waterslides and for other aquatic activities, the operator shall provide lifesaving personnel and lifesaving stations in accordance with Schedule C, in addition to the lifeguard or lifeguards required under subsection (5). M.R. 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Emergency procedures and instructions 23.1(1) The operator of a public swimming pool shall, before September 15, 2005, establish written emergency procedures and instructions for the facility, including, but not limited to, the information specified in Schedule C.1. 23.1(2) The operator of a public swimming pool shall ensure that the procedures and instructions established under subsection (1) are posted in a place accessible to staff, and that staff are trained in how to implement them in the event of an emergency, accident or injury. 23.1(3) The operator of a public swimming pool shall ensure that it complies with the procedures and instructions established under subsection (1). M.R. 108/2005 Actions of lifeguard and assistant lifeguard if hazard exists 23.2(1) Every lifeguard and assistant lifeguard on duty at a public swimming pool who believes that a situation exists that is hazardous, or potentially hazardous, to bathers, shall immediately abate, or cause abatement of, the hazard, or (a) order all persons to immediately leave the pool or any part of it, and to remain out of the pool or the part of it for as long as the lifeguard or assistant lifeguard requires; and (b) advise the operator of the pool of the existence of the hazard or potential hazard. 23.2(2) A person ordered under clause (1)⁠(a) to leave a pool or part of it, and to remain out of the pool or part of it, shall comply with the order. M.R. 108/2005 Access control 24 The operator of an indoor public swimming pool shall ensure that all means of entrance to the pool area are securely locked when the pool is not in operation or under the supervision of the required number of lifeguards and assistant lifeguards. Sanitary facilities 25(1) The operator of a public swimming pool shall provide toilet, hand washing and shower facilities for use by bathers in accordance with Schedule D. 25(2) For public swimming pools where the maximum bathing load exceeds 600, the operator shall provide one water closet or equivalent, one shower and one hand basin for each gender for each additional 150 bathers or portion of that number. 25(3) In addition to meeting the requirements of subsections (1) and (2), the operator of a public swimming pool shall (a) ensure that the sanitary facilities provided for bathers are not accessible to spectators; and (b) provide separate sanitary facilities for spectators and auxiliary areas in addition to those provided for bathers. PART 4 SEMI-PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS Signs 26(1) Subject to subsection (3), the operator of a semi-public swimming pool shall, where lifeguards are not provided, post signs in conspicuous locations within the pool area and at all major access points and the signs shall contain the following wording in letters and numbers 4 cm or more in height and on a contrasting background: WARNING: No lifeguard on duty. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 26(2) The operator of a semi-public swimming pool shall post the hours of operation at all major access points to and in a conspicuous location within the pool area. 26(3) Where a semi-public swimming pool (a) is a whirlpool; and (b) is operated in the absence of another type of semi-public swimming pool; the words "No lifeguard on duty." may be omitted from the signs required under subsection (1). M.R. 92/2000 Safety 27 The operator of a semi-public swimming pool other than a whirlpool shall provide at a readily accessible and clearly marked pool-side location not less than: (a) a non-conductive reaching pole of 3.6 m or more in length; and (b) one lightweight buoyant throwing device securely attached to a rope of a length greater than the width of the pool. M.R. 92/2000 Pool use 28 Where the operator of a semi-public swimming pool other than a whirlpool allows access to the pool by the public or the pool is rented to a user group, the operator shall ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are provided in accordance with section 23. M.R. 92/2000 Access control 29(1) The operator of a semi-public swimming pool shall take all reasonable measures to ensure that the pool is not used for swimming, wading or diving outside of posted operating hours. 29(2) Unless there is a lifeguard on duty, the operator of a semi-public swimming pool shall restrict access to the pool to members, tenants, residents or their guests. PART 5 MODIFIED POOLS Recirculation and water quality 30(1) No person shall operate a modified pool unless (a) the bacteriological quality of the water in the pool is such that thermotolerant coliform is not detected in 100 ml of pool water as determined by a standard testing method for thermotolerant coliform; (b) the water in the pool is sufficiently circulated over the entire surface and depth of the pool to eliminate dead water areas; and (c) the water in the pool is sufficiently clear to permit a black disc 15 cm in diameter on a white background located on the bottom of the pool at its deepest point to be clearly visible from any point directly above it. 30(2) No person shall operate a modified pool unless he or she ensures that (a) water quality tests are done at sufficiently frequent intervals to ensure that the quality of the pool water meets the requirements of subsection (1) at all times the pool is in use; and (b) operating records showing the following information are maintained on site for a period of one year from the date of making the record: (i) times and results of all tests done to measure bacteria content, (ii) times and results of any other tests that may be taken from time to time. M.R. 92/2000 ; 108/2005 ; 51/2025 Slope 31 No person shall operate a modified pool unless the floor of the pool basin has a uniform slope not greater than (a) 1 m vertical in 12 m horizontal, where the water depth is less than or equal to 1.5 m; (b) 1 m vertical in 3 m horizontal, where the water depth is greater than 1.5 m but less than 2 m; and (c) 1 m vertical in 2 m horizontal, where the water depth is greater than or equal to 2 m. Lifeguards 32 No person shall operate a modified pool unless lifeguards and assistant lifeguards are provided in the numbers and at the locations specified on the annual operating permit at all times the pool is in use. Safety 33 The operator of a modified pool shall provide lifesaving stations in the numbers and at the locations as specified on the annual operating permit. M.R. 108/2005 Access control 34 The operator of a modified pool shall take all reasonable measures to ensure that the pool is not used for swimming, wading or diving outside of operating hours. Sanitary facilities 35 Unless otherwise specified on the annual operating permit, the operator of a modified pool shall provide a minimum of three water closets or three privies for each gender and, where water is supplied under pressure, a minimum of two hand basins for each gender. PART 6 PUBLIC NON-CONFORMING POOLS Prohibition re public non-conforming pools 36 No person shall construct or operate a public non-conforming pool other than a public non-conforming pool that was in operation at the coming into force of this regulation. Water quality 37 No person shall operate a public non-conforming pool unless the bacteriological quality of the water in the pool is such that no more than 20 thermotolerant coliform are detected per 100 ml of pool water as determined by a standard testing method for thermotolerant coliform. M.R. 51/2025 Lifeguards 38 No person shall operate a public non-conforming pool unless lifeguards and assistant lifeguards are provided in the numbers and at the locations specified on the annual operating permit at all times the pool is in use. Safety 39 The operator of a public non-conforming pool shall provide lifesaving stations in the numbers and at the locations specified on the annual operating permit. M.R. 108/2005 Access control 40 The operator of a public non-conforming pool shall take all reasonable measures to ensure that the pool is not used for swimming, wading or diving outside of operating hours. Sanitary facilities 41 Unless otherwise specified on the annual operating permit, the operator of a public non-conforming pool shall provide a minimum of three water closets or three privies for each gender and, where water is supplied under pressure, a minimum of two hand basins for each gender. PART 7 WADING POOLS Slope 42 No person shall operate a wading pool unless the floor of the pool basin has a uniform slope not greater than 1 m vertical in 15 m horizontal. Attendant 43 No person shall operate a wading pool unless an attendant is on duty at all times the pool is in operation, except in the case of a wading pool operated in conjunction with a swimming pool for which lifeguard supervision is required under this regulation. Sanitary facilities 44 The operator of a wading pool open to use by the public shall provide a minimum of one water closet for each gender at the wading pool. PART 8 VARIATION OF REQUIREMENTS Approval of types of pools not presently contemplated 45 Upon written application and notwithstanding the provisions of this regulation, the minister or a person designated by the minister may allow the construction, alteration or installation of a swimming pool or other water recreational facility not contemplated by this regulation, subject to such terms and conditions as the minister or other person may require. M.R. 108/2005 Review and recommendation 46 Before April 1, 2010, and within every five-year period thereafter, the minister shall (a) review the effectiveness of the operation of this regulation including consulting with such persons affected by it as the minister considers appropriate; and (b) recommend to the Lieutenant Governor in Council that the regulation be amended, continued or repealed. M.R. 108/2005 Repeal 47 The Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Modified Pools and Non-Conforming Pools Regulation , Manitoba Regulation 329/88 R, is repealed. Coming into force 48(1) This regulation, except clauses 18(a), (b) and (c), comes into force on the day it is registered under The Regulations Act .

48(2) Clauses 18(a), (b) and (c) come into force one year after day this regulation is registered. SCHEDULE A (Section 7) D-1 Shall be at End Wall of Diving Area or not more than 30 cm from the End Wall (NOTE) All dimensions shall be in METRES unless otherwise stated. STANDS & BOARDS DEPTH – MIN – MAX LENGTH OF SECTION D-1 D-2 D-3 D-4 D-5 A B C D E F 1 METRE BOARD MIN 1.5 1.5 3.2 3.0 2.7 1.5 2.4 † 3.6 † 4.6 0.3 3.0 MAX 1.9 3.0 DECK LEVEL BOARD or NO BOARD MIN 1.5 1.5 2.8 2.6 2.4 0.8 1.8 △ 1.8 △ 3.6 0.3 3.0 MAX 1.3 3.0 † B & C may vary to attain Total 6.1 MIN △B & C may vary to attain Total 3.7 MIN SCHEDULE B (Section 10) FIRST AID KIT EQUIPMENT 1 spine board with attached adjustable straps (not required at a wading pool or whirlpool) 2 blankets 12 safety pins 1 splinter tweezers, blunt nose 1 pair of bandage scissors, approximately 10 cm long First Aid Manual, Current Edition An approved antiseptic Disposable gloves Artificial Resuscitation barrier device or Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation barrier device (not required at a wading pool) DRESSINGS (individually wrapped) 2 sterile bandage compresses, approximately 10 cm x 10 cm 8 sterile pads, approximately 7 cm x 7 cm 32 sterile adhesive dressings, approximately 2.5 cm wide 2 sterile gauze compresses, approximately 1 m x 1 m BANDAGES 1 triangular bandage, approximately 1 m on all sides 2 roller bandages, approximately 5 cm x 6 m M.R. 92/2000 ; 108/2005 SCHEDULE C (Section 23) MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR LIFESAVING PERSONNEL AND LIFESAVING STATIONS 1 The operator of a public swimming pool must use the following table to determine the minimum number of lifeguards, assistant lifeguards and lifesaving stations that are required at the pool. No. of Bathers in Pool Area No. of Lifeguards on Deck No. of Assistant Lifeguards (or additional Lifeguards) on Deck No. of Lifesaving Stations at Poolside 1-30 1 0 1 31-75 1 1 1 76-150 2 1 2 151-250 2 2 2 251-350 3 2 3 351-450 3 3 4 451-550 4 3 4 551-650 4 4 5 651-750 5 4 5 751-850 5 5 6 851-950 6 5 6 951-1050 6 6 7 1051-1150 7 6 7 1151-1250 7 7 8 1251 or greater 8 plus any additional personnel that a public health inspector may require 7 plus any additional personnel that a public health inspector may require 8 plus any additional stations that a public health inspector may require SCHEDULE C.1 (Subsection 23.1(1)) EMERGENCY PROCEDURES AND INSTRUCTIONS 1 An operator of a public swimming pool shall establish written emergency procedures and instructions for the facility that include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following information: (a) Identifying information respecting the facility List the name, location and telephone number of the facility. (b) Telephone signage Specify the location of telephones at or near the pool area, and post signage to indicate their locations. (c) Emergency contact information List the telephone numbers of relevant emergency services, including 911 (if available), emergency medical response services, fire and police at (i) each telephone at or near the pool area, and (ii) the reception desk (if the facility has a reception desk). (d) First Aid Kit Specify the location of the first aid kit, and post signage to indicate its location. (e) Emergency Response Procedures Outline the steps to be taken to address an emergency, including (i) immediate actions, (ii) any outside contacts to be made and who is to make outside contacts in the event of an emergency, and (iii) documentation requirements. M.R. 108/2005 SCHEDULE D (Section 25) SANITARY FACILITIES FOR PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS Maximum Bathing Load Showers for Each Sex Water Closets Hand Basins for Each Sex Urinals Male Female 1 - 99 1 1 1 1 0 100 - 199 2 1 2 1 1 200 - 299 3 1 3 2 2 300 - 399 4 2 4 2 2 400 - 499 5 2 5 3 3 500 - 600 6 3 6 3 3