(a) All swimming pools shall have a minimum of two interconnected main drain outlets, which cannot be isolated by valves or other means, for each recirculation pump system. Main drain outlets shall be located in the deepest part of the pool. All piping associated with the main drain outlets shall be of equal diameter and each main drain shall be of equal size. Main drain outlets and associated piping shall be hydraulically designed to provide equal flow through each main drain outlet. A main drain outlet shall be no less than three feet and no more than twenty feet from another main drain outlet, and no more than fifteen feet from a pool side wall.
(b) A main drain outlet opening shall be covered with a protective grate or anti-vortex cover which is not hazardous to patrons, is anchored in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations, and is designed to prevent body entrapment or injury. Main drain grates or covers shall be secured so that their removal requires the use of tools. Main drain covers shall be manufactured and installed according to the specifications set forth by the ASME/ANSI and NSF International standards for suction fittings. The cover, frame, and all components shall be corrosion resistant and shall be designed to withstand the maximum anticipated forces generated by active use. The total water velocity through main drain outlets shall not exceed one and one half feet per second for water depths eight feet and greater or one foot per second for depths less than eight feet, and shall not exceed the maximum flow rate specified by the manufacturer of the main drain cover.
(c) Other methods that prevent suction outlet body entrapment and injury may be approved by the Director.
(Ord. 07-14. Passed 12-18-07.)