Creating Accessible Aquatic Facilities: Best Practices and Design Principles

When designing and creating pools, it is important to consider the needs of all guests. Ramaker works closely with clients and pool owners to ensure that the project scope is met, incorporating inclusive design principles that ensure everyone is able to enjoy the amenities, including those with limited mobility. Our team of aquatic designers and engineers stays up to date with the latest accessibility guidelines, industry best practices, and innovations in inclusive aquatic design to ensure every facility meets or exceeds compliance standards.

Maintaining compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is essential in making pools fun and inclusive for guests of all ages and ability levels. The U.S. Department of Justice has outlined a list of ADA requirements for swimming pools.

Essential Components of ADA Compliance

Accessible Entry and Exit Points

• Pool Lifts: Every pool must have at least one accessible means of entry and exit, such as a pool lift or a sloped entry. For larger pools, an additional accessible entry method is required. Pool lifts must be capable of being independently operated, be fixed in place adjacent to the pool, and must have a minimum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
• Sloped Entries: Also known as ramps, sloped entries provide a gradual slope into the water and are suitable for both small and large pools. The slope should not exceed a 1:12 ratio and must have handrails on both sides. In addition to improved accessibility, the ramps provide a nice way to introduce the youngest of swimmers to pools.

Transfer Walls and Systems

• Transfer Walls: These walls are designed to allow individuals to transfer from their wheelchair or mobility device to the pool. Transfer walls should be 16 to 19 inches high with a top wall thickness ranging from 12 to 16 inches with 5 feet of deck clearance. Elevated walls work well for whirlpool access.
• Transfer Systems: These systems include steps and platforms that facilitate the transfer process. They must have a handrail to assist users in moving from their mobility device into the pool. The platform and step systems allow access to deck level pools without pool lift maintenance or the space required for ramps.

Accessible Routes

• Routes to Pool Areas: Accessible routes must be provided from parking areas, changing facilities, and other amenities to the pool area. These routes should be at least 36 inches wide and free of any obstructions with slopes ranging from 1/8” to ½” per foot and less than ¼” per foot cross-slope.
• Clear Deck Space: There should be a clear deck space of at least 36 inches wide around the pool to ensure that individuals using mobility devices can move freely.

Water Play Components

• Interactive Water Features: If your pool includes water play components such as splash pads or fountains, at least one of each type must be accessible. These features should be designed to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate and enjoy the experience.

Benefits of ADA Compliance

Ensuring that your aquatic facility complies with ADA requirements is not just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about creating an inclusive environment where everyone is able to enjoy the benefits of aquatic recreation. Thoughtful accessibility features, such as sloped entries, pool lifts, and handrails, help remove barriers for individuals with mobility challenges, visual impairments, and other disabilities. By designing with inclusivity in mind, you make your facility welcoming to a broader audience. Complying with ADA requirements provides many benefits, including:

• Enhanced User Experience: ADA-compliant pools provide a safe and enjoyable environment for individuals with disabilities, promoting equal participation in recreational activities.
• Increased Community Engagement: Accessible pools attract a diverse range of users, fostering a sense of community and inclusion.
• Positive Brand Image: Businesses that prioritize accessibility demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, enhancing their reputation and appeal to a broader audience.
• Legal Compliance: Adhering to ADA guidelines helps avoid potential legal issues and ensures that your facility meets all regulatory requirements.

Ramaker’s aquatic designers and engineers are committed to making accessibility a priority in every project. Our team actively monitors updates to ADA regulations and industry best practices, ensuring that each facility we design remains compliant with evolving accessibility standards. From initial planning to final construction, we incorporate inclusive design solutions that seamlessly blend accessibility with aesthetics and functionality.

Whether you need a new pool designed from the ground up or an existing facility retrofitted for compliance, Ramaker has the expertise to guide you through the process. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help you create an accessible pool, contact us today!