On May 18, 2012, the Department of Justice extended its
deadline on the compliance date for existing pools and spas. The new date, January 31, 2013, was
established to give the Department of Justice ample time to clear up
misconceptions and to educate and inform on the Standards as they relate to
pools and spas.
In the new documentation, the Department of Justice
expresses significant concern about misunderstandings by pool owners and
operators with respect to the ADA requirements.
Their documentation works to clarify three specific concerns:
Fixed vs Portable Lifts – A Fixed Lift must be used if it is
readily achievable to do so.
Closing of Pools Due to New Standards – The DOJ wants to
ensure that no pools and spas are closed because of the Standards. The provisions call for accessibility steps
to be made when they are “readily achievable.” Pool closures reduce access for
everyone, including individuals with disabilities.
Supply Availability – The DOJ states that comments suggest
that there is concern surrounding the availability of compliant lifts for
purchase. This extension will provide
pool owners and operators more time to purchase and install the lifts to be
fully compliant by the new deadline.
For more information, or to read the full documents from the
ADA, visit http://www.ada.gov//regs2010/ADAregs2012/finalrule_existingpools_FR_may21.htm. They will continue to work to provide more
clarifying information.
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Additional
Information from Spectrum Aquatics®:
Many customers ask, “What is the difference between a
non-fixed lift and a fixed lift?”
According to documents from the DOJ…
A non-fixed lift is a lift that is not physically attached to the pool deck or apron in any way. A non-fixed lift is often called a “portable
lift.”
A fixed lift is a lift that is physically attached to the pool deck or apron in some way. A fixed lift does not mean permanently
attached. A fixed lift may be removable.
For example, a “portable” lift that is attached to the pool deck would be
considered a fixed lift.
Spectrum Aquatics has
options for fixed lifts, portable lifts that physically attach, lifts that can
be converted from portable to fixed and more!
Contact us for more information.
800.791.8056.
