Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) Module Abstracts

MAHC Operator Training Module Abstract

Increased pool code violations have been linked to the lack pool operator training. These violations may also be linked to an increased potential for health effects if a facility is not operated and maintained appropriately. The Operator Training Module is a first step towards assuring adequate training for all personnel who operate aquatic facilities. The Operator Training Module contains requirements for:

1. Training course elements to be included in curricula
2. Instructor qualifications
3. Certificate validity to be for 5 years maximum

To make the module more complete and interpretable, proposed language from the Regulatory Program Administration Module is also included (6.3.1.1, 6.3.1.2). This language outlines the requirement for operator training and the aquatic facilities requiring on-site qualified operators.

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MAHC Ventilation Module Abstract

Health issues related to indoor pool use and associated poor water and air quality are increasingly being documented. The Ventilation Module is a first step towards improving air quality at indoor aquatic facilities and reducing associated health effects. The Ventilation Module contains requirements for new or modified construction that include:

1. Increased make-up air required in addition to that required in the ASHRAE 62 standard for indoor pools
2. Determination of the extra make-up air needed based on the indoor venue water use type (e.g., flat water, agitated water, or hot water) and venue or deck patron density (square feet/person)
3. Inclusion in calculations of additional make-up air from surge tanks or gutters that introduce fresh air
4. Development and implementation of plans to reduce combined chlorine compounds in indoor aquatic facilities and inform facility patrons of their impact on building air quality

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MAHC Risk Management/Safety Module Abstract

Increased vigilance is needed at aquatic venues to reduce injuries in the water, chemical storage room, and around the pool and facility. The Risk Management/Safety Module outlines steps to be taken to manage and reduce these risks and associated health problems. The Risk Management/Safety Module contains new guidelines covering:

1. Controlled access aquatic venues (e.g., lazy rivers) not requiring depth markers throughout
2. Expanded employee training to cover fecal- and vomit-related pathogen response and clean-up
3. Potential sources of glare and ways to prevent glare in aquatic venue design
4. Consideration of water temperature and patron use
5. Expanded chemical storage and handling
6. Use of remote monitoring systems
7. Employee illness policies
8. Inspection items for daily opening and closing of aquatic features or venues

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MAHC Facility Maintenance and Operation Module Abstract

Aquatic facility operation and maintenance is a critical component of maintaining health and safety. Past outbreaks have commonly found operation and maintenance lapses to be critical contributors to disease outbreaks and injuries. The Facility Maintenance and Operation Module lays the foundation for operational improvement by containing requirements for:

1. Closure and reopening guidance for long and short term closures
2. Comprehensive plans for preventive maintenance, equipment inventorying, and development of an operations manual to be maintained at the facility
3. Reducing and mitigating excessive glare and reflection on the pool surface through design and adjustments to windows and lighting equipment
4. Comprehensive daily records of pool operation & maintenance and of operational items inspected daily

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MAHC Hygiene Facilities Module Abstract

Swimmer hygiene is a critical component that plays a role in documented waterborne disease outbreaks and poor water quality. The Hygiene Facilities Module is a first step towards improving swimmer hygiene and facility water quality to reduce the associated health effects. The Hygiene Facilities Module contains requirements for new or modified construction that include:

1. Minimum distances for hygiene facilities from aquatic venues
2. Newly defined diaper changing stations
3. Implementation of rinse vs. cleansing showers

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MAHC Regulatory Program Administration Module Abstract

Regulatory guidance forms the framework around which an effective model aquatic health code is built. The Regulatory Program Administration Program Module follows a best practice and research-based protocol to ensure the AQUATIC FACILITY is operating safely. The guidance reflected in this module promotes all parties working together from the initial building permits to the code enforcement process. The Regulatory Module contains requirements for but not limited to:

1. Establishment of an independent Aquatic Health Advisory Committee
2. Delineation of imminent aquatic health hazards and corresponding remediation and enforcement procedures
3. Establishment of facility staffing requirements based on facility size and type
   • Trained operators required for all facilities
   • Outlines facilities requiring on-site vs. off-site operators
4. Aquatic facility operator training
5. Plans and permits guidelines
6. Recordkeeping requirements
7. Swimmer empowerment methods

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MAHC Disinfection and Water Quality Module Abstract

Disinfection and water quality are critical components in maintaining bather health and comfort. Health issues related to inadequate disinfection and poor water quality are increasingly being documented. Outbreak investigations have often determined that disinfectant levels and other water quality parameters were not maintained appropriately thereby allowing disinfectant-sensitive pathogens to be associated with pool use. The emergence of chlorine-tolerant microbes also necessitates changing accepted standards for pool treatment to protect the health of bathers in the future. The Disinfection and Water Quality Module takes the first steps in addressing these recurring and emerging aquatic health issues. The Disinfection and Water Quality Module contains requirements for new or modified construction that include:

1. Primary disinfectant levels set
2. Secondary disinfection required for “increased risk” aquatic venues such as Interactive features, spray pads, wading pools, and other venues designed primarily for diaper-aged children as well as therapy pools
3. Combined chlorine maximum levels set
4. Prohibition of cyanuric acid in Indoor facilities and “increased risk” aquatic venues

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