Pools

The state code for public pools, ATCP 76, was updated in 2024. Below we've outlined some significant changes: 

Water Quality and Recirculation

• Maximum bromine level allowed is now 10 ppm.
• Test kits that have 0.2 accuracy for pH must maintain pH at 7.4-7.6.
• ORP controller range is now 650-900 mV.
• Wading pool turnover rate is now 1 hour or less.
• Updated water temperature ranges:
  • Indoor pools: 70 – 90F
  • All whirlpools: 90 – 104F

Situations Requiring Pool Closure

• During pool maintenance or repair, including when pump is shut down and when adding chemicals
• If emergency phone is not working
• If cyanuric acid level is above 300 ppm
• If pool gate or door is not self-closing or self-latching (except when staffed by a lifeguard)

The minimum disinfectant level for many pools has increased.

See ATCP 76.14 Table A for more disinfectant residual changes for plunge pools, wave pools, waterslides, pool slides and other water attractions.

Equipment & Facilities

• Install carbon monoxide detectors in equipment rooms and indoor pool areas with fuel-burning appliances.
• Ensure that shepherd's crook reaches the bottom of the deepest part of the pool at non-lifeguarded pools.
• Update pool rules sign to include that children under the age of 12 must have adult supervision.
• Inform all patrons that breath holding games are not allowed.
• Lock and mark doors to chemical storage areas to say entry for authorized personnel only.
• Have a list of emergency phone numbers in the chemical storage area.
• Ensure people can leave the pool enclosure without a key, fob or punch code.
• Position door closers, latches and locks 54 inches or more from the bottom of the gate or door.
• Create a biohazard kit with:
  • A scoop and spatula
  • Sanitizing hand and surface wipes
  • Neoprene gloves
  • Paper toweling
  • 24" x 24" biohazard disposal bag
  • Twist ties
  • Absorbent
  • Storage case

Expanded Responsibilities

• Require responsible supervisors to respond within 15 minutes to unsafe conditions at the pool.
• Evacuate the pool and test water if the recirculation system is interrupted for any reason, like a power outage.
• Test the chemical interlock system once a month. Record the test date, results, and name of tester in a log. During an inspection, the operator must be able to describe how the chemical interlock system works.
• Create a written plan to reduce combined chlorine levels. The plan must include:
  • Combined chlorine action level, taking source water monochloramines into account. The recommended action level is 0.4 ppm.
  • Pool volume
  • Range of volume of fresh source water added each day
  • Description of showering requirements, and how they are communicated to patrons
  • Log of combined chlorine test dates and results, dates and time breakpoint chlorination was done, and any complaints of eye or respiratory irritation
• Expand responsible supervisor duties to include providing chemical safety training to staff, making sure all required testing is done and all records are maintained, closing the pool per ATCP 76.30, making sure any ropes between shallow and deep areas are in place, and making sure any pool covers do not cause a safety hazard.
• Require pool operators to contact the health department if they are notified that a person suspects they became ill from using the pool.

Pool Operation

• Chapter ATCP 76 Safety, Maintenance, and Operation of Public Swimming Pools and Water Attractions, Wisconsin Administrative Code
• DATCP Public Swimming Pools Webpage
• Virginia Graeme Baker Act fact sheet and log sheet
• Information for Pool Operators, CDC
• Incident Reporting Forms, DATCP
  • Death, Injury or Illness Report Form
  • Fecal Incident Response Form

Courses for Certified Water Attraction Operators

• Aquatic Facility Operator Certification Program, National Recreation and Park Association
• Certified Pool/Spa Operator Certification Program, Pool & Hot Tub Alliance

Healthy Swimming Information

• Information on Recreational Waterborne Illness, CDC
• How to Swim Healthy, CDC