Different types of pool covers have different requirements. These requirements make sure they are safe for all.
Floating and safety pool covers
If you have a floating or safety pool cover, make sure:
- You must have a fence or divider to separate the pool from all living units
- Only the pool manager can have access to the pool when it is not open
- Lock the pool when the cover is on
- Completely remove, roll up, and store the cover at least 4 feet from the pool
- Completely remove spa pool covers from the area so bathers do not use it
- The pool cover meets current American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) labeling requirements
- You install and use the cover the way the manufacturer says
- Stair handrails and deep-end ladders do not get in the way of the cover
Stretch pool covers
If you have a stretch pool cover, make sure:
- Recess tie-down anchors into the deck so they are not a tripping hazard
- Only the pool manager can have access to the pool when it is not open
- The pool manager removes and stores the pool cover before the pool is open for use
On-deck pool with on-deck track
If you have a pool on a deck with a pool cover that uses a track, make sure:
- All retracting mechanisms are at least 4 feet from the pool’s edge
- Tracks on the deck surface are trip-resistant and not more than ⅝ inches high
- The track’s color contrasts with the color of the deck’s surface
- The track does not get in the way of the coping handhold
- Screws used to secure the track to the deck are countersunk
- The switch allows you to have a clear view of the entire pool surface
- The cover will stop moving if you release the switch (“dead man” switch)
- The cover will return to the open position if it hits a block while closing
- Only responsible people have keys to operate the pool cover
- Children are not allowed to access the switch
Sub-surface unit with under-coping track
If you have a pool cover that is under the surface of the water in a track, make sure:
- The cover can completely go into its case
- When the cover is open, its housing is flush with the pool deck and forms a handhold 1 - 2 inches over the edge of the pool
- The track and the coping under it are not more than 2 inches thick total
- The under water housing compartment drains to an approved disposal system through an air gap
- The disposal system is not directly connected to any sewer or deck drain system
- The switch allows you to have a clear view of the entire pool surface
- The cover will stop moving if you release the switch (“dead man” switch)
- The cover will return to the open position if it hits a block while closing
- Only responsible people have keys to operate the pool cover
- Children are not allowed to access the switch
Canopy pool covers
If you have a pool cover that is a canopy above the pool, make sure:
- All canopy supports are at least 4 feet from the pool edge when the cover is open
- The switch allows you to have a clear view of the entire pool surface
- The cover will stop moving if you release the switch (“dead man” switch)
- The cover will return to the open position if it hits a block while closing
- Only responsible people have keys to operate the pool cover
- Children are not allowed to access the switch
Last updated April 16, 2024