Using multi-access systems to ease pool ingress/egress
Many aquatic facilities use a combination of the access equipment mentioned in this article. The following are a few examples of some pool and spa/hot tub projects Acapulco Pools has been involved in which incorporate multiple barrier-free options into the design and functionality of the facility:
- Pools at a number of Lifetime Fitness facilities are equipped with one or two beach-entry pools, transfer walls in the spas/hot tubs, and access lifts throughout.
- A movable floor was recently installed at the Emerald Hills aquatic facility in Edmonton’s Sherwood Park. A KBE North America movable floor was interlocked with a platform lift from Spectrum Aquatics. The floor can be set to various depths and the lift will stop at whatever depth the floor is set to. This design offers complete flexibility for the pool operators and the facility’s patrons.
- Barrier-free entry was well thought-out and incorporated into the design of the Regent Park Aquatic Centre in Toronto. This state-of-the art facility has a ramp entry into the lap, leisure, and conversation pools. The latter pool was also designed with hydrotherapy jets and incorporates ballet rails.
Increasingly, aquatic facilities are incorporating as many of these features as possible into the design and construction phase of the project to ease accessibility and creating a barrier-free pool and/or spa/hot tub experience for everyone to enjoy.
Francine Gall is the chief operating officer at Acapulco Pools Ltd., in Kitchener, Ont. She is responsible for overseeing all of the day-to-day operations within the organization. Gall is also Acapulco’s expert on the subject matter of splash pads and movable floors. She can be reached via e-mail at francine@acapulcopools.com.
James Whitaker is a project manager for Acapulco Pools Ltd. He has been with the company since 2010 and is responsible for a number of projects across North America ranging in value from $50,000 to $4 million. Whitaker can be reached via e-mail at james@acapulcopools.com.
