Access devices are any artificial means to effect entry into the WCRR, such as diving boards, slides, water flumes, ropes, cargo nets, and swings.
(a) Diving Boards. Diving boards, when used, shall be installed and used only under conditions safe for both divers and bathers.
(1) At least 15 feet of free and unobstructed head room is to be provided above diving board and towers;
(2) No diving board or platform shall be more than ten feet above water level for unrestricted use by patrons;
(3) Where diving boards or platforms are used, they shall be structurally sound and in good repair;
(4) Where a diving board not greater than one meter high is used, the water depth under the board shall be a minimum of eight feet six inches; this depth to extend a minimum of ten feet in front of the end of the board; beyond this point, the slope of the bottom upwards toward shallow water shall not be steeper than one foot vertical for each three feet horizontal. A side clearance depth of eight feet six inches shall extend a minimum of ten feet as measured from the edge(s) of the platform and/or board.
(5) For a three meter (ten foot) board, the water depth under the board shall be at least 12 feet, this depth to extend a minimum of 15 feet in front of the end of the board; beyond this point, the slope of the bottom upward toward shallow water shall not be steeper than one foot vertical for each three feet horizontal. A side clearance depth of 12 feet shall extend a minimum of 15 feet as measured from the edge(s) of the platform and/or board.
(b) Slides, Water Flumes, Ropes and Swings. All entry devices including those cut into the slope of a natural hillside, into an artificially excavated hill, or supported by a structure, shall be designed and built to provide a safe entry, support strength and proper angle alignment for the access devices.
(1) Materials Selection and Finishing. The selection of all component and accessory materials shall be such that all parts with external surfaces and edges that may come in contact with the user are assembled, arranged, and/or finished (deburred, polished) so that they will not constitute a cutting, pinching, puncturing, or abrasion hazard under casual contact and intended use. All components shall be carefully analyzed to ensure that the materials will not degenerate or decompose with time or exposure to the elements of nature.
(2) Structural Design. The owner and a registered civil engineer shall have the responsibility for the safe design and construction of the entire facility. The access device’s structural design shall be in accordance with generally accepted structural engineering practice and provide a sound, durable structure which will safely sustain all dynamic and static stresses involved. Flumes and pools shall be watertight. All water contact surfaces shall be of inert, nontoxic materials, smooth and easily cleanable. All parts and components shall be accessible for cleaning and safety inspection purposes.
(3) Flume Exit System. A flume exit system shall be provided so that safe entry into the splash area is accomplished for all deceleration distance(s), and for attitude control prior to entry. Every design shall assure a safe exit velocity and attitude control of the user under normal use.
(4) The splash area shall be designated and separated with safety ropes and buoys and from the general swimming area.
(5) Sufficient numbers of attendants shall be on duty at the entry areas at all times slides are available for use. Clear, unobstructed vision to all entry and exit areas occupied by participants shall be provided.
(c) All structural elements, including pools, building, access devices or structures affecting the public shall be inspected for safe operation and maintenance by a registered civil engineer at least once a year prior to any use if the facility is seasonal, or at six month intervals for access devices in continuous operation. A signed inspection report shall be provided to the owner/operator with a copy to the DEHS.
(Ord. 3105, passed - -1986)