Concrete construction is expensive, so it is important to be frugal when designing a new facility. This involves the way the pool is laid out for programming, but it also extends to the mechanical room, which most likely houses a backwash pit. Overestimating the size of the backwash pit means wasted concrete, while underestimating its […]
Proper pool bonding is incredibly important when it comes to considering the safety of swimmers. Pools require electricity to power certain components that make the pool function. Things like pumps, lights and heaters cannot operate without electricity. When pools and their necessary components are not properly bonded or grounded, some electricity can make its way […]
One of the specialty areas of aquatic facilities is the chemical room. These rooms are areas of the facility that are subjected to aggressive materials and more restrictive building code requirements. The International Building Code (IBC) describes a high-hazard occupancy as one “that involves the manufacturing, processing, generation or storage of materials that constitute a […]
The world of pH buffering is changing. For years, pool operators had to choose between using CO2 or muriatic acid to adjust the pH of their pool. As time went on, some sophisticated operators installed both systems on their pools and manually switched between them to maintain the desired level of total alkalinity in the […]
The sport of swimming continues to grow and with that we are seeing an increasing amount of television coverage. From the Olympic Games to the NCAA Championships, swimming fans can now tune to their local sports station and watch the meet. With that in mind, it is particularly important that we, as pool designers, continue […]
Depth makers and warning signs are one of the most important aspects of pool design. Depth markers and warning signs allow swimmers on the pool deck, as well as swimmers inside the pool, to know water depth. Knowing if the water is of a safe depth is critical information for swimmers looking to dive in. […]
A false start/recall rope is a rope that stretches across the width of competitive racing pools. It stops swimmers who were unaware of a false start. They’re specifically designed to get the attention of swimmers to prevent them from exerting unnecessary energy in the case of a false start. Typically, the rope is made of […]
Counsilman-Hunsaker was retained by ARCON Associates to provide an assessment of the existing swimming pools at Hinsdale Central and South High Schools and an evaluation of the existing swimming facilities at Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South High Schools was conducted in 2017. The comprehensive assessment revealed a misalignment with contemporary standards and a pressing need […]
In recent years, we have seen too many accidental drownings aboard cruise ships. For decades, cruise ships have adopted a ‘swim-at-your-own-risk’ policy as an industry standard. But now cruise lines, are taking further steps to ensure the safety of its guests by adding certified lifeguards to their fleet. That being said, when conducting training on […]
USA Swimming’s Facilities Development Department recommends all “new models” for aquatic facilities have at least two pools with one having water temperature 80 to 84 degrees (cool water and generally the competition or training pool) and the other pool having water temperatures of 87 to 89 degrees (warm water). However, we are very interested in […]
