50281523 swimming pool design

8/6/2019 50281523 Swimming Pool Design

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March Revision 001 Sport England 2008

SwimmingPools

Newguidance

inside

DesignGuidance Note


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Swimming Pools DesignGuidance Note

March Revision 001 1 Sport England 2008

ForewordSport England believes that good facilities arefundamental to developing sporting opportunitiesfor everyone, from the youngest beginner to theinternational class athlete. The buildings whetherlarge or small can encourage civic pride andassist the process of revitalising deprivedneighbourhoods. Facilities that are well designedbuilt to last and well maintained are a pleasure touse and give an ample return on the time andmoney invested in their construction and day today use.

Good design needs to be based on a sound

understanding of such issues as the currenttrends and practices within individual sports,developments in the sport and leisure industryand the lessons to be learnt from previously builtschemes.

Good design needs to be embraced within theearliest vision statement for a particular projectand enshrined in the initial briefing stage throughto the final detailed specifications andoperational arrangements.

A well designed pool can attract swimmers.

Sport Englands Design Guidance notes aim topromote a greater general understanding ofoverall design concepts, an appreciation oftechnical issues and the critical factors that needto be considered in reaching the appropriatesolution for a particular project. They also advisewhere further information, advice and expertisemay be found and point to benchmark examples.

Sport Englands DesignGuidance Notes aim to:

Increase awareness ofgood design in sportsfacilities.

Help key buildingprofessions, clients,

user representativesand other stakeholdersto follow best practice.

Encourage welldesigned sportsfacilities that meet theneeds of sports and area pleasure to use.


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Contents Page1.0 Introduction 3

National statistics

Trends

Condition and public expectation

Partnership and cooperation.

2.0 Early considerations 5

Financial sustainability

Strategic issues

Size and shape of water

Level of competition

Pool capacity

Leisure features

3.0 Site 12

Location and site evaluation

Site planning

External design

4.0 Organising the building 16

4.1 Relationship of spaces 16

4.2 First impressions 19

Entrance area

Reception desk

Refreshment areas Public toilets

Accommodation for children

4.3 Pool Hall 23

Structural approach

Glazing

Artificial lighting

Signs

4.4 Pool Tank(s) 26

Configuration

Main pool

Combining two pools in one hall

Learner and training pools

Diving pools

Easy access to the water

Privacy for some user groups

Movable floors and Bulkheads

4.5 Changing facilities 39

Key design issues

General planning principles

Changing layouts

Analysis of types of changing rooms

Calculating numbers

Benches, coat hooks and lockers

Toilets

Showers

Vanity areas

4.6 Ancillary accommodation 47

Office accommodation Staff rooms and changing

Cleaners store

External service yard

4.7 Typical fixtures and fittings 50

4.8 Spectator & competitorprovision 52

5.0 Servicing the building 54

Energy implications

Energy efficiency

Renewable energy

Water efficiency

Pool water quality

Disinfection

Chemical dosing

Water softness

Filtration systems

Turnover rates

Water temperature

Air temperature and humidity

Electrical installations

Size of plant room

Plant room spaces

Air distribution systems

6.0 Constructing the building 62 Types of pool tank design and surround

Pool edge details

Finishes to wet areas

Structural frame

Roof enclosure

External walls

Glazing

Internal walls

Movable floors and bulkheads

Stainless steel in the pool environment

Doors and frames

Acoustics

Fixed pool equipment

7.0 Operating the building 73

Key operational and design issues

Key maintenance issues

8.0 Appendices 75

1 Related organisations

2 Standards and Legislation

3 Changing room calculations example

4 Further information on leisure pools

5 Further information and references


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1.0 Introduction

This guidance note outlines the basic principlesand concepts of good swimming pool design. It isaimed at all those involved in developingswimming provision and points to furtherinformation and gives a number of best practiceexamples.

Swimming is second only to walking as thenations most popular physical activities with over22% of adults and 50% of young people takingpart on a regular basis

1. It can be enjoyed by

people of both sexes and by all ages and abilities

and is recognised as being uniquely beneficial tothe nations health and well being. It is ideallysuited for people with disabilities and the elderlyor infirmed who might have difficulties with otherforms of exercise.

Swimming and water safety is an essential lifeskill, part of the National Curriculum and canencourage fitness and good health practicesamongst young people. It is regarded as anessential part of childrens education for the safeenjoyment of most water activities and anunderstanding of the wider environment aroundthem.

Swimming, like all other sports can play asignificant part in community regeneration andnew or refurbished pools can provide muchvalued facilities that make an importantcontribution to community cohesion and generalhealth and well being.

1 Sport England Active People Survey

National statistics

It is estimated2

that there are almost 1,400

swimming clubs and associations in Englandranging from small clubs which concentrate onthe teaching of swimming to the very large clubsinvolved in competition in swimming, divingsynchronised swimming, water polo anddisability swimming. These voluntaryorganisations provide the foundations forcompetitions at all levels and the development oftalent. Swimming pools also provide for a widerange of other activities from aqua-robics to sub-aqua training, and most commonly simplerecreational and fitness swimming.

It is also estimated3

that there are almost 4,614

separate swimming pools sites in England with atotal water 872,910 m2. Approximately 25% ofthis water area is provided by the educationsector, 46% by local authorities (or trusts) and26% by the commercial sector. The stock ofpools is in various forms:

Indoor or outdoors.

Free form or rectangular.

Heated or unheated.

Associated with hotels, health clubs, waterparks, beaches and other private operations.

TrendsIn recent years England has seen a growth ofcommercial pools to the point that in numericalterms they are now almost equal to the numbersof Local Authority pools. However thecommercial pools tend to be small in size andwith shallower water, being aimed primarily atthe fitness / aerobic/ recreation market. Theytend to offer a reduced programme of activitiesand have restrictive pricing. They are less likelyto allow for competition swimming or teaching.

2 ASA From Arm Bands to Gold Medals 2001/23State of the Nation Facility Report Swimming Pools

November 2007.

Swimming can be enjoyedby people of both sexesacross all ages andabilities and is recognisedas being uniquelybeneficial to the nationshealth and well being.


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The trend for the education sector is to be a

diminishing provider of swimming facilities.Condition and public expectation

It has been acknowledged by Government thatpublic swimming facilities in England havegenerally suffered from under funding and needconstant maintenance and repair, placing manyunder threat of closure

4.

Only a few of the Victorian municipal baths, oncethe pride of Britain's big cities remain. In addition,hundreds of council pools built in the 1960s and1970s are close to the end of their economic lifespan. Local Authorities are often faced with thedifficult decisions to close pools with strong localopposition. In some cases these are buildings ofhistorical and architectural importance.

There are also considerable pressures onschools where the majority of pools were built inthe 60s and early 70s, many to a poor standard.Schools face logistical problems, additionalcosts, health & safety issues and time and stafftraining issues in delivering the nationalcurriculum. The Governments Building Schoolsfor the Future programme, to rebuild or refurbishall secondary schools over a 15 year period mayresult in many existing pools not beingrefurbished or replaced

5.

4 DCMS Spending review 20045Building Schools for the Future: Adding value with

swimming. ASA.

In contrast, the last decade saw a growing

number of lottery funded swimming pools.Modern design, together with more attractiveinternal features and greater attention tocustomers needs has created a step change inpool provision. The Active Places databaseshows that since 1996 some 56% of the nationalstock has been built or benefited from somedegree of refurbishment. However, the likelihoodof significant lottery funding being available in theimmediate future is doubtful.

Partnership and Cooperation

Careful consideration needs to be given to theoverall justification and briefing for swimming

provision.

Schools, Local Education Authorities, healthagencies and local government should seek towork with members of the wider community tocapitalise on knowledge, experience andresources. They should seek to establish clearswimming strategies.

Existing pool provision in any particular area mayneed to be rationalised; schools with existingpools might share them with other schools andthe wider community; pools being refurbished orreplaced should consider the needs of the entirecommunity.

The Swimming Charter 2003 published byDepartment of Children, Schools & Families(DCSF) and the Department of Culture, Mediaand Sport (DCMS) give various case studieswhere swimming has been provided on acommunity basis to allow school swimming tomove beyond the essential minimumrequirement of key stage 2 of the NationalCurriculum

6.

There is also an impressive core of organisationsconcerned with development, management andsafety issues. See appendix 1.

6Programmes of swimming activities are also drawn up

within the National Curriculum for key stage 1, 3 and 4.

Best practice examplesinclude:

New community poolsthat cater for schoolneeds

Existing public andcommercial pools being

shared betweenschools and the widercommunity


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2.0 Early ConsiderationsPublic swimming pools are unusually demandingbuildings that require considerable investment todesign build and operate. They must operatecontinuously, often 24hrs a day over 365 days ayear, under stringent health and safetyrequirements to ensure safe, supervised use.They have high energy needs in operation andmust be carefully designed to conservationenergy. They contain aggressive chemicals inmoisture-laden atmospheres that require carefuldesign and high quality materials, plant andequipment and well qualified staff.

The full environmental impact of such buildingsthrough their life cycle should be carefullyconsidered and it is recommended that theBREEAM assessment method be considered.

7

Pools outside the public sector, though possiblyless intensively used must also achieve safe andacceptable operating conditions.

All new pools will need to be designed in linewith the forthcoming new European standardprEN 15288. See appendix 2. Existing Health &Safety documentation will also need to becarefully considered in respect of both designand operation of a pool

8

The Construction (Design and Management)Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007) which inconjunction with the Heath and Safety at WorkAct and prEN 15288 identify the need toestablish a strong project team includingdesigners, operators and contractors with soundexperience and expertise with similar projects inboth scale and type from the outset of anyproject. Refer also to the Sport England/CABEdocument Better Places for Sport available fromhttp://www.sportengland.org/final-se.pdf

7The Building Research Establishment Environmental

Assessment Method ( BREEAM) includes leisurebuildings. http://www.breeam.org/page.jsp?id=148Health & Safety Executives (HSE) document HSG179

Managing Health & Safety in Swimming Pools 3rd

Edition

Good design can:

Maximise customer appeal

Maximise programmingflexibility

Provide efficient and wellorganised circulation

Minimise staffing levelswhilst allowing the

effective management ofhealth and safety.

Help achieve sustainabilityand be responsive toenvironmental issues

Minimise cleaning andmaintenance requirements

Reduce the footprint andvolume

Allow flexibility formaximum programmeoptions

Help achieve financialsustainability


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Financial sustainability

Even the best designed public pools are likely tobe run on a subsidised basis and it is importantto consider the long term financial sustainabilityfrom the outset. The initial capital costs and theongoing operational costs should be balancedwith the benefits that will be offered

9.

There are strong arguments for swimming poolsto be combined with other facilities such ashealth and fitness facilities that produce anincome stream without incurring excessiveadditional running costs in order to offsetsubsidies and to achieve economies of scale. Itis essential that realistic business planning runsin tandem with the planning and designprocesses.

Cost pyramid: Value for money is essential - Invest ingood design and specification to reduce whole lifecosts (staff, maintenance, repair and running cost)-Ensure adequate maintenance budgets are available.

Leisure features

A number of pools include some leisure water

area that includes features designed to increase

9See Sport England document Win Win

appeal and attract custom. There are ranges of

possible options that may include: Varying water depths, with extensive shallow

or beach areas.

Wave pools and surfing pools.

Water slides & flumes.

Fast flowing river rides & rapids.

Water jets & water cannons.

Water features e.g. Rain Showers.

Spa facilities, including varyingtemperatures.

Childrens wet play equipment.

Feature lighting and sound to introduce amore theatrical environment.

Theming to increase excitement and appeal.

Larger scale leisure centre are usually plannedas destination facilities that attract people froma wide catchment for a day out experience.

Leisure features are outside the scope of thisguidance note, but further information is includedin Appendix 4.

Strategic IssuesThe following strategic issues need to beconsidered:

Sporting objectives: for example the impacton local community participation or thesignificance on a wider catchment ofspecialist training and competition features.

The fit with the local authoritysleisure/recreation strategy and sportsdevelopment initiatives.

The user profile of the catchment area: whowill use it and when.

Establish a strongproject team includingdesigners, operatorsand contractors withsound experience andexpertise from theoutset of any project


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Whether the need can be met elsewhere or

by other means, for example by upgradingor extending an existing pool.

The impact on existing facilities10

.

It is crucial that client groups liaise with their localauthority, their regional Sport England office, andadvisory bodies such as the Amateur SwimmingAssociation (ASA) to determine:

Whether there is a local strategy forswimming pool provision that covers the area.

What is the best size and type of facilityrecommended for their particular location?

On the Sport England website, there is a sectionaimed at those involved in the development ofsport in their local community and sustainablecommunity strategy. This is a new tool thatreplaces the 1999 Sport England publicationPlanning Across Boundaries

11.

Key questions

Who will be the principal users?

What activities need to be accommodated?

Type and size of pool(s) required?

Number of people who will use the pool atany one time?

Will the pool be used for competitiveswimming? (What activities and to whatstandard?)

10The Sport England Active People web site has

segmentation data available from late 2007.

11

http://www.sportengland.org/pab_planning_across_boundaries

Is spectator viewing justified?

Pools users will mainly comprise a combinationof the following groups:

Local community including cultural groups

Schools

Swimming clubs

People with disabilities

Older people

Mothers with babies and young children.

The main types of activity are likely to be:

Recreational swimming Learning to swim, including water-

acclimatisation for young children

Fitness swimming: e.g. lane swimming andaquarobics

Training

Competitive swimming

Other activities may include:

Diving

Water polo

Synchronised swimming

Canoe practice

Life saving practice

Sub-aqua training

Underwater hockey

Leisure activities

Private parties

A wide range of activities can be accommodatedin a standard 25m (or 20m

12) community pool

with depths ranging from 0.9m 1.8 m, by simply

dividing the area with floating lane markers. Forexample, teaching swimming and shallow dives,recreational and fitness swimming aquarobics lifesaving practice and sub-aqua training.

12More suitable for school sites or remote rural locations

A swimming developmentstrategy is essential to setout the context ofsporting and management

objectives for any newprovision.

Ensure that balanceddecisions are made aboutneed and financialresources.


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An example of a 4-lane 25m community pool with

minimum circulation, good visibility of all key featuresincorporating limited spectator seating.

Size and shape of water

Many small pools will be used solely forrecreational and fitness swimming and will notnecessarily need to strictly follow the ASArecommendations. However, it is generallyrecommended that standard dimensions shouldbe used to allow appropriate levels ofcompetition swimming and to help meet safetystandards. On the other hand relatively few poolsneed be designed to full competition standardsand include spectator facilities

13.

13Further advice on spectator seating is given on page ?.

Single community pools should have a minimum

shallow water depth of 0.9m (if there is nolearner pool) and a deep end of 1.8 or 2.0m.Where a learner pool is provided the shallowwater depth of the main pool should beincreased to 1.0m in order to better cope withtumble turns.

Training for competition, low level synchronisedswimming, and water polo can all take place in a25m pool and with modest spectator seating the

pool will also be able to accommodatecompetitive events in these activities.

Diving from boards, advanced synchronisedswimming and more advanced sub-aqua trainingrequire deeper water. These can all beaccommodated in one pool tank, which ideallyshould be in addition to the main swimming pool.A dedicated tank for deep-water use may be anessential requirement for some activities atcertain levels of competition.

The provision of separate water areas fordifferent activities is however unlikely to be acost-effective solution and difficult to justify,except where competition is a specificrequirement. A more economical approach is toinclude a movable floor(s), and bulkhead(s)

14to

divide a single pool tank and create separatepool water areas of different depths. This allowsgreater use and programming flexibility. Thereare many ways such features can be configuredand these are discussed in more detail frompage 37.

Early advice should be sought from a range ofmanufacturers/suppliers on the overall designimplications of integrating their plant / equipment

14Also referred to as booms

If the proposed pool waterarea is too small it will beunder constant pressureduring busy periods.

Conversely pools that aretoo large will be underused, less cost-effectiveand likely to result ingreater financial deficit.

It should be recognisedthat new, replacement orrefurbished pools, whichmeet present daystandards, have the effectof increasing demand.


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into a design and a cost comparison carried out

to determine the most appropriate option.

Levels of competition

New pools should be designed to meet allcommunity requirements and in some cases this

may include the requirements of the AmateurSwimming Association (ASA) or for majorcompetition pools the requirements of theFederation Internationale de Natation Amateur

15

(FINA) for training and competitions.

Building elements affected include

Dimensions and tolerances of the pooltank(s) and pool surrounds

Sectional profile and water depths

Provision of ancillary water areas e.g.learner pool that can double as a swimdown pool.

Poolside equipment including timingand score board.

Diving facilities

Spectator seating.

Support accommodation.

Standards of illumination and watertreatment.

Consultation should occur early in thedesign process with the ASA and FINA asappropriate. FINA facility rules are availablefrom their website

16

15International Amateur Swimming Federation

16http://www.fina.org/rules/english/facilities.php

ASA National Hierarchy17

The ASA National Hierarchy identifies where aswimming facility may sit in respect of nationalswimming development as follows:

Swimming

50m major competition pools.

50m (or 25m) national/regional competitionpools.

50m (or 25m) national high performancecentres. *

25m 8-lane county competition pools.

25m 6 lane community pools.

20m 4 lane small community or school pool

Teaching/learner pools.

Diving

High performance centres. *

World-class training centres. *

County and sub regional developmentcentres *

Water Polo

International* sized playing areas.

County and sub regional development

centres 25 x 12.5m deep water.

Synchronised swimming

International competition pools.

County and sub regional developmentcentres minimum 2.5 m depth.

*It should be noted that terms such as highperformance, world class, international, nationaland regional, often refer more to the coachesand standard of athletes in developmentprogrammes run in a particular facilities.

17Source: From Armbands to Gold Medals - The National

Facilities Strategy for Swimming.


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Maximising customer appeal should be a primary objective of any swimming pool.

Pool capacity

The numbers of people likely to use the pool atany one time needs to be estimated early in theplanning and design process. The figure can beused to assess the number of changing roomplaces that are required and for more technicalissues such as the design of the pool waterfiltration plant. It will therefore be a key factor inestablishing the total floor area of the building.

Pool operators often refer to the maximumnumber of bathers estimated to be able to use apool at any one time as the bathing load.

The pool capacity will vary according to theparticular programme session/activity and will bea function of the available water area. It will alsobe dependent on appropriate risk assessmentsand operational arrangement being in place toensure safety.

For un-programmed recreational swimming aminimum water area (occupancy ratio) of 3m2per bather should be allowed to ensure physicalsafety

18.

18Health & Safety Executives (HSE) document HSG179

Managing Health & Safety in Swimming Pools 3rd

Edition

Theoretically, therefore, a 25 x 8.5m 4 lane poolwith a water area of 212.5m2 wouldaccommodate a maximum swimmer capacity orbathing loadof 71 bathers.

However such figures should be used withcaution and careful consideration should begiven to the proposed programme of activitiesand likely demand. For example, for a strategicplanning exercise or in the development of arealistic business plan and estimating the annualthroughput of the building a lower figure might beassumed

19.

19 The Sport England Facility Planning Model uses a

figure of 6m2 per bather. The ASA use a figure of 13 m2

of water per population of 1000 as an approx standard forurban locations. (Assuming a payand play pool open tothe public and discounting open air pools and teachingpools)


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3 SiteLocation and site evaluation

Before finally selecting a site it is essential that itis fully evaluated in terms of catchment, potentialmarket and user demographics, as mentionedunder Strategic Issues.

A technical analysis should also assess:

Space for the proposed facility and for futureexpansion.

Site constraints such as shape and contoursand whether they can be used to reduce

excavation or the visual impact of theproposed building.

The bearing capacity of the ground, soilcondition and depth of the water table,particularly in relation to the pool tank andneighbouring buildings that may be linked toor be close to the pool building.

Accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, cars,coaches, service and emergency vehiclesand public transport.

Potential car parking for users and staff.

Location of existing public services,

especially the capacity for waste waterdrainage.

Links with existing recreational/sports andeducational facilities in order to benefit fromshared management and grouped facilities.

Site planning

Once a site has been selected the position of thepool will depend on a range of factors:

Position of existing and new access roadsand public utility services.

Orientation in relation to natural lighting and

solar glare.

Visibility of the facility and how itcomplements its surroundings.

Car parking, including potential for overflowparking.

Access for service and emergency vehicles.

Soil sub-strata conditions and depth of thewater table from the soil survey.

External design

Swimming pools cater for all sections of society:parents with children, schools, the elderly, ethnicgroups and people with disabilities amongstothers. The external design must reflect the

specific needs of these groups in the same way

as the interior of the building.

A facility should compliment its surroundings.

It is recommended that reference is made toSport Englands Guidance Notes Car Park andLandscape Design and Active Design.

http://www.sportengland.org/carparking.pdfhttp://www.sportengland.org/planning_active_design

Principal points for consideration include:

The main entrance should be clearly visiblefrom the main pedestrian and vehicularapproaches to the site. Where this is difficultor impossible to achieve such as in tight

urban sites, existing schools or on collegesites, for example there should be clearsigns giving directions to the main entranceand related car parking areas.

Direct and well-defined hard landscapedroute(s) should be provided for pedestriansfrom the site boundary to the main entrance.These routes should be separated from carsand cycles, although they will be linked toparking areas.

Safe route(s) should be planned to avoidcirculation problems such as road crossings(particularly on education sites).

Seating areas along pedestrian routes (over50m).

Drop off point as close as possible to theentrance.

Access for people with disabilities, includingwheelchair users, must be provided.Incorporate dedicated car parking close to theentrance.

Service and maintenance access should beseparate from public car parking and themain entrance. This may include the


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provision of a screened service yard for the

delivery of goods and refuse collection

20

. Access to a first aid room with a dedicated

space for emergency vehicle parking andadequately sized doors for stretcher access.

Security for users with well lit public parkingappropriate landscaping and pedestrianroutes planned away from areas of potentialconcealment.

Coach parking spaces and/or turning space,particularly if the facility serves children fromlocal schools or if it is a destination venue fora wider catchment.

Secure and separate bicycle parking withracks located under cover close to the mainentrance and, preferably, visible from theoffice / reception.

Carefully considered planting and/or trees toprevent unacceptable levels of glare in thepool hall.

A well positioned and landscaped pool building.

The following factors have an impact on theexternal appearance of pool buildings:

Swimming pools are generally large volumespaces. The massing, scale and volume ofthe building will be key planning

considerations, especially in relation to itslocation and context.

Activities such as diving will necessitate asubstantial increase in the overall height ofthe building and, inevitably, its scale.

20

Delivery of pool treatment chemicals will require carefulconsideration see the Pool Water Treatment AdvisoryGroup (PWTAG) publication Swimming Pool Water Treatment and Quality Standards and the Health & Safety

Executives (HSE) document HSG179 Managing Health &Safety in Swimming Pools 3rd

Edition IRSM IndustryGuidance.

Water slides or flumes (if included) can be

used as an external feature to express theirfun element and provide a further visualattraction. They should form an integral partof the overall design and, ideally, be visiblefrom the main approach to the building.

The choice of an appropriate structuralapproach and material for the large spanscovering the pool hall and ancillaryaccommodation.

It is essential that the glazing design iscarefully considered to avoid glare andspecular reflection inside the pool hall

21.

The aim is to provide the optimum balance ofnatural lighting that avoids gloomy conditionsin the pool hall.

Windows allowing views in and out of thepool hall need careful consideration andshould be considered in relation to the needfor privacy.

Windows can provide dramatic effects bothinternally and externally, particularly at night.

21See section 4.3 on glazing and the safety implications of

glare and direct sun penetration into the building andmethods of mitigation.


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Notional site layout indicating desirable features (not to scale)


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Clear signage raises the profile of a building. Where possible signage should be incorporated into the overall designrather than be applied separately.

An example of successful location, massing and use of materials for a small community pool.


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4 Organising the buildingThis section considers the main elements of a swimming pool building.

4.1 Relationship of spaces


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Example layout for single storey wet and dry sports centre.


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Example layout for a two storey swimming pool building


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4.2 First impressions

Swimming pool buildings should be attractive toensure lasting customer appeal. The customerexperience starts with the approach to thebuilding. The position of the building on the siteand the quality of the surrounding landscapingare important elements. Scale and identity arealso important design factors in both rural andurban environments.

Signage and lighting can also assist greatly inpromoting the building and may be used toreinforce its external identity.

The design should provide sufficient space with aclear orientation for customers and alloweffective but unobtrusive supervision by staff22. Apositive first impression will influence visitorsperceptions of the facility as a whole. Thematerials and colours will also influence theoverall image of the reception area and canprovide a theme for the rest of the building.

Open arrangements work well with good levels oftransparency into the main areas of the building,such as the pool hall, refreshment areas and anyassociated fitness facilities. However,appropriate security measures will be required toavoid unauthorised access. In addition, aneffective environmental separation should be

maintained with pool/wet areas that have hightemperature, humidity and air-borne chemicals.

A dedicated welcome area may be provided inlarger centres enabling staff to provide newcustomers with key information on the servicesavailable.

22The issue of creating a non-threatening entrance is

particularly important for female users

A well proportioned entrance with clear and directaccess from the roadside.

Entrance area

The entrance area should provide sufficientspace for groups of people to circulate, viewnotices or wait for friends. At peak times thesudden influx of customers may requiremanaged space for queuing.

An open and uncluttered reception area easescirculation and customer orientation. Theentrance area should include:

Clear and easily accessed in and out

circulation routes.

A draught lobby to reduce heat loss providedwith suitable dirt removing floor surface .

Automatic doors designed for easy access forall.

A prominently positioned and instantlyidentifiable reception desk.

A clearly signed and direct circulation routefrom the main entrance to the changing roomsvia the reception desk.

Key information should be provided using

clear signage to explain for example, ifchanging rooms are separate male andfemale or shared.

In addition:

Automatic doors need to be carefullypositioned as they can cause draughts whenboth sets of doors are open at the same time.

Notice boards and signs are required topromote activities and services available tousers.

Information should be displayed aboutopening and session times.

A public telephone accessible to all users.

The need to create agood first impressionbegins at the entrance.

A positive firstimpression willinfluence visitorsperceptions of thefacility as a whole.


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Reception desk

Location and layout

The reception desk is of prime importance andits location, appearance and lighting will impacton the whole area. There are two main types:

Island: Its central location occupies morespace but can suit larger centres with both wetand dry facilities, where separate circulationand space for queuing are required. Thearrangement can be confusing to newcustomers and more difficult to control. Itsisolation from offices and stores cancomplicate operation.

Sidewall: located to one side of the entrancearea and usually linked directly to anoffice/store. This option is more suitable forsmaller centres allowing the counter to beunmanned during quiet periods leaving officestaff to deal with the occasional customer.

The reception desk should be located to allow:

Visual supervision of the entrance/exits routesand all adjoining areas.

Restriction of unsupervised access by

arranging the circulation pattern to pass thereception desk.

Where security is a high priority securitybarriers/screens should be integrated into thedesign and be in close proximity to thereception. In some cases a position for asecurity guard may be required. Mobile oradjustable barriers might also be used at peaktimes.

Suitable artificial lighting to allow good staffviewing at all times of day.

Direct access to other parts of the building

including the pool hall, social and changingareas.

Adequate queuing space between the point ofentry and the desk based on estimatednumbers of users.

Cross-circulation in front of the reception deskor through queuing areas should be avoided.

Entrance and foyer arrangement for a typical small pool building with upper floor accommodation .


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Cash handling

The design of the reception area should takeaccount of issues associated with handling cash.A secure area will be required for cashing up atthe end of the day and possible overnight cashstorage. In larger facilities, a pneumatic cashhandling system may be included betweenremote cash points and the cash storage area.

Ventilation

Adequate ventilation should be provided tocreate comfortable working conditions,particularly where roof-lights are sited above thereception desk

Access ControlThe initial design should anticipate the need foraccess control appropriate to the scale andnature of the facility. A system may include theprovision of gates, turnstiles or barriers andallowance should be made for suitable accessand egress for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The access system may also incorporate acombination of control systems based upon:

Magnetic swipe/smart card or PIN codethrough a membership control system.

Pay as you Go system using paper tickets,

magnetic swipe tickets and/or tokens eitherpre-purchased or obtained from reception.

Manually controlled access by reception staffor a security guard.

Sport Englands Access for Disabled Peoplehttp://www.sportengland.org/disabled.pdf designguidance note gives details of spacerequirements and other requirements.

Large caf/reception area overlooking pool area.

Refreshment areas

A refreshment area is often located close to themain entrance with views of the pool hall. Theyare usually intended for those who use the poolor other activity areas, but may also be locatedbefore the reception desk in order to attractpassing trade. However, in smaller centres itmay not be possible to justify more than a fewvending machines in association with someinformal viewing areas.

The social/refreshment area should bepositioned on a primary route so that it will attractvisitors attention as they enter and leave thefacility. If locating the refreshment area on anupper level is unavoidable, it should be linked byprominent stairs to the foyer and be clearlyvisible from the foyer area.

The size and scale of refreshment provision willdepend on:

The number of people expected to use thebuilding and whether the pool is linked to, or ispart of, a larger centre containing dry activity

areas. Whether the pool is part of a community

centre with a bar and kitchen.

Signage begins at theentrance and shoulddisplay:

Opening times andemergency numbers

Clear directions tohelp circulation andorientation

Remember that manyusers, in addition topartially sighted people,remove their glasses andcontact lenses to swim.

Signage should be largewith contrasting coloursand be easily read.


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Caf area can be passively supervised form receptionand offers views to the pool and the buildingsurroundings

Accommodation for children

Pushchair and pram storage: a baby buggystorage area with security locks should belocated close to the entrance preferably in sightof the reception area.

Baby change facilities: Baby changing facilitiesshould be provided in one male and female toiletand in one accessible toilet. They should be wellventilated and equipped with an adjustablechanging shelf, a large purpose made nappy

disposal bin and a washbasin.

Childcare facilities: Accommodation for crchesor playgroups should be located at ground leveland have direct access to a secure fire exit. Thebest facilities are linked to the outside with asecure and protected courtyard providingoutdoor play facilities.

Levels of provision vary significantly dependingon whether crche, playgroup, nursery or day-care facilities are required and the length of stay.A licensed childcare facility will need to complywith current Ofsted National Standards

25

25Refer to Ofsted publication Crches: Guidance to the

National Standards published by DfES: Standard 4

4.3 Pool hall

Structural approach

The sectional profile and height of the pool halland adjoining areas such as changing areas,may impact upon the scale of the spaces makingthem feel either: light and spacious; orclaustrophobic and oppressive. There are anumber of structural roof options that may beconsidered:

Simple pitched roofs.

Curved roofs with the high point centred overthe pool width.

Sloping or curved mono-pitch.

Staggered or saw tooth roofs.

Flat roofs

Each option has advantages and disadvantagesrelated to the specific site, internal volume andenvironmental requirements.

The internal height of the pool hall may vary.Where the ceiling or roof is flat, for a 25 x 8.5m(4 lane) pool a minimum clear height of 3.5mshould be considered.

For a profiled ceiling or roof, the minimum heightfor a similarly sized pool, should be between 4.5

and 6m at the highest point, dropping to 3.5m atthe lowest.

It helps backstroke swimmers if the structuralelements, or roof lights, provide a visualreference running parallel to the length of thepool.

Glazing

Natural lighting can give life and sparkle to thepool hall interior, but it needs to be carefullycontrolled and considered with the generalorientation of the building. Roof glazing over thelength of the pool hall can provides good natural

light allowing sunlight to be reflected off internalside walls while keeping glare, solar gain andheat loss to acceptable levels.

Physical Environment. Similar publications are availablefor other levels of childcare.


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Areas of poorly positioned direct side and/or endwall glazing can create excessive glare and solargain. All side glazing has the potential to causespecular reflection on the water surface, fromlight being reflected at a low angle on to the poolwater and causing the surface to appearmirrored.

The problem can be particularly difficult when thesun is at a low angle in the winter or during theevening. The glare can mask the water below thesurface and can make it extremely difficult toobserve swimmers below. This has criticalimplications on the positioning and number oflifeguards required26.

Specular reflection and glare can also have aserious implication for spectator seating

27.

In some instances large glazed areas have beensuccessful. Options for controlling or minimisingthe impact of specular glare include:

Limiting glazing to a north facing length of thepool, in conjunction with a reasonable amountof roof-lighting (up to 25% say).

Use of evergreen foliage or trees tosignificantly reduce the amount of light and

glare. Provisions of an external active solar shading

system that adjusts automatically for optimumlighting and glare control.

Provision of manually operated blinds.

Automated interstitial blinds mounted withindouble glazed units, linked to light sensors.

26 The HSE publication HSG179 Managing Health &Safety in Swimming Pools makes particular reference tothe need to avoid specular reflection and minimumnumbers of life guards.

27It is suggested that light from glazing or light fittings

should have an angle of incident with the water surface ofabove 70 to avoid this problem.

Use of proprietary translucent insulated

sandwich panels that diffuse daylight and alsoprovide some thermal insulation.

The addition of underwater lighting in the poolhall.

Capital cost and maintenance factors will need tobe considered for each option.

Top glazing will not create reflection on the water forspectators. However side glazing may need to bescreened.

Glazing in a mono-pitch roof can allow safe sunpenetration into the pool hall

Side lighting can cause specular glare on the poolsurface limiting visibility below the waters surface.Careful positioning of lifeguards can minimise the

impact of the glare.

Carefully controlled daylighting can addcharacter and aconnection with natureand the outsideenvironment. However,specular reflectionshould be avoided.


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Community pool hall with an exposed roof structuretop-lighting and low level windows.

Artificial lighting

Artificial lighting and colour schemes will impactupon the general ambience of the space, andcan affect the colour of bathers flesh tones andthe appearance of the water.

Light fittings should be located above poolsurrounds for ease of access or alternativelyaccess from a gantry if over the pool water. Lightfittings should be directed so they cause minimalglare or reflection to bathers in the water andstaff on the pool surrounds. Up-lighting ratherthan direct lighting is preferred for general

illumination as this allows a more evendistribution of light, and obviates glare.

Fittings should generally be of the discharge

type, as the more environmentally friendly lowwattage type fittings are unlikely to meet thelighting needs. The type of discharge fittingshould be selected on illumination performance,colour rendering, lamp life and energy efficiency.It is important that the fittings do not causesignificant spectral change to the colour offinishes with the pool hall.

The provision of reliable underwater artificiallighting can provide several benefits:

Improve the appearance of the pool and poolhall particularly at night.

Improve visibility below water level.

Improve safety within the pool.

In deeper water, e.g. diving tanks, it may benecessary to provide additional light fittings in thelower pool wall, in order to illuminate the poolbase.

The use of light colours, particularly on wallsurfaces close to the pool tank, will contribute toan enhanced atmosphere. Light colours are lesslikely to be distorted by artificial light, are moreeasily maintained and can aid the distribution oflight through reflection, or example, from the roofdeck.

See section 6 for more details.

Up lighter accessible from pool side. Or

alternatively for larger pools an overheadgantry. Underwater lighting should be selectedbased on speed and ease of re-lamping.

The use of light colours,particularly on wallsurfaces close to the pooltank, will contribute to awarm and sunnyatmosphere.

Artificial Lighting:

300 lux* for most other

activities.500 lux* for competition.

International eventsrequire higher levels:

FINA: 600 lux at the turnand start ends.

Olympics: 1500 lux overthe entire pool***Refer to CIBSE Lighting Guide 4: SportsLighting

**Television requirements that will rarely beused in most 50m pools


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If provided, fixed staff control points should

have good overall views of the entire pool halland be subject to a risk assessment at thedesign stage.

The first aid room must be directly accessiblefrom the pool surround with direct access toan external hard standing area for emergencyvehicles.

Pool equipment and cleaners stores shouldbe directly accessible from the pool surround.

Appropriate viewing is required for spectators(refer to section 4.8).

Main Pool Start

End

Turn End Sides

20mCommunity

2m 2m 1.5m

25mCommunity

3m 2m 2m

25mCompetition

4m 3m 2 3m

50mInternational

7m 5m 4 - 6m

Learner Pool AccessSide

Other Side

2m 1.5 2m

Diving Pool BoardEnd

OppositeEnd

Sides

Generally 4 6m 2 4m 3 4m

International 6 7m 3 5m 4 6m

Recommended widths of pool surrounds

Combining two pool tanks in one hall

Combining two water areas in the same hall maybe economical in capital terms but the followingshould be borne in mind:

It will not necessarily reduce the numbers of

lifeguards required. It limits the possibility to close off one pool and

leaving it un-supervised.

It compromises the privacy that some usergroups require e.g. people with disabilities,cultural or faith groups or single sex sessions.

It could also cause sound transmissionproblems

It could restrict control of environmentalconditions for the different areas.

Some of these issues could be addressed by the

use of a glazed screen with built in blinds or asliding opening section. Screening with planting,or simply by increasing the acoustic attenuationof the pool hall could also be considered.

Where two types of pool are provided, forexample a learner and main pool, circulation tothe main pool should not be via the learner poolsurrounds as this may disturb users. Similarly thechanging room design should achieve anappropriate degree of separation to createprivacy and direct access to a learner pool.

If a separate diving pool is planned in the samepool hall as the main pool it should be positioned

at the deep end of the main pool.Privacy for some user groups

Many users will be quite relaxed to swim in apublic area, but equally there may be personal,religious or cultural reasons that makepeople/groups uncomfortable about being visiblein their swimming costumes. To engage with thewhole community consideration should be givento providing a greater degree of privacy for someusers groups.


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A layout designed with a dedicated suite of changing, fitness and sauna for sensitive groups.

It may be appropriate to provide separatechanging rooms with direct access to ascreened-off pool. The alternative to programmethe use of the whole swimming pool(s) fordedicated sessions at certain times may be costprohibitive. (See section 4.5 below).

Main pool

The following criteria apply for competition pools:

Length of pool tank: competitions are held in25 and 50m pools with end walls that are

parallel, and at right angles to both theswimming course and water surface.Maximum tolerances to the finished surfacesare measured from 0.3m above and 0.8mbelow the water surface and must be asfollows:

25m pool: 25.000m (-0.00m + 0.030m)50m pool: 50.000m (-0.00m + 0.030m).

However, when removable timing pads areused in the pool (as part of an automaticofficiating timing system) the abovetolerances must not be exceeded and thedimensions to the tiled wall faces need to beadjusted to:

25m pool: 25.010m (-0.00m + 0.010m).50m pool: 50.020m (-0.00m + 0.010m).

Dimensions will need to be certified by asurveyor proposed or accepted by thegoverning body

30.

Width of pool tank: depends on number andwidth of swimming lanes and extra margins ofwater required for the two outer lanes toimprove swimming conditions. The minimumlane width is 2m for 25m pools. Competition

pools used at regional, national andinternational levels standards should beprovided with lanes of 2.5m width.

Water depth: should be not less than 0.9m inshallow water areas of small 20 and 25mcommunity pools. However, where a learnerpool is provided and in larger pools, the depthshould be increased to a minimum of 1m tofacilitate tumble turns.

The depth of the water can also affect thespeed that swimmers can attain. Pools usedfor competition under FINA rules, require a

30Federation International de Natation Amateur (FINA)

http://www.fina.org/ and the Amateur SwimmingAssociation (ASA) http://www.britishswimming.org/


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minimum water depth of 1.35m, or 1.80m31

preferred, increasing to 2m minimum forWorld and Olympic events.

Colour of tank finish: white or pale bluefinishes are preferred as they have highreflectance factors. This makes it easier tosee swimmers below the water and to judgeby eye the clarity of the water.

Pool tank profile: should be considered inrelation to the range of activities to beaccommodated and whether movable floorsand bulkheads are planned (see from page32).

For safety32

the pool tank gradient should notbe steeper than 1 in 15 in water less than1.5m deep; ideally this gradient should becarried to 1.8m depth.

Dedicated competition pools may be set at aconstant depth of 1.35m minimum, 1.8mpreferred, or 2m minimum for World orOlympic events.

Pool edge detail: a deck level edge is themost effective and attractive option. Thisallows pool water to constantly overflow theedges of the pool tank and drain into acontinuous channel set into the pool surround.

The channel can be positioned at the pooledge or set back behind a tiled margin ofapproximately 0.30m.

Deck level edge detail have advantages overthe older freeboard type of scum channel:

o Easier pool access/egress.

o Improved surveillance of the pool tank fromthe poolside.

o Improved air movement across the surfaceof the pool, enabling more effectiveremoval of airborne chemical pollutants.

o

Improved surface draw-off removingpollutants from the water surface moreefficiently.

o Reduction in water turbulence, improvingconditions for swimmers in the outer lanesand people learning to swim.

The deck level edge must be designed toallow swimmers to obtain a grip and also have

31The IRSM and ASA stipulate a minimum of 1.8m for the

teaching of shallow dives from the pool side. See ISRMpublication Diving and jumping into swimming pools andopen water areas. Where the freeboard is greater than

350mm the FINA Standards will apply.

32HSE publication HSG179 Managing Health & Safety in

Swimming Pools.

a dark coloured edge demarcation to allow the

edge of the water to be more easily seen byswimmers and those on the pool surround.

Raised pool ends: provide a clearly visiblevertical surface in deck level pools for tumbleturns to be safely executed and remove theneed for separate turning panels. The endsshould be 300mm above the water level andincorporate a hand grip. Where the waterdepth permits they can be used to teachdiving.

Permanent raised ends should only beprovided if the pool is to be regularly used forcompetition. They allow easier integration of

automatic officiating equipment for competitiveevents. For occasional competition use,temporary starting platforms and turningboards should be used.

Lane markings: positioned on the pool tankfloor and end walls in the centre of eachswimming lane, they help swimmers judge theend of the pool tank when turning and arerequired for competition. They should be darkblue or black, contrast with the pool tankfinish, and be set out to meet ASA/FINAstandards.

Vertical access steps and ladders: shouldbe recessed flush with the pool tank walls andpositioned at each end of the pool tank about1m from the end walls. Extra steps can beprovided mid-way along the sidewalls. Fordiving tanks, steps should be positioned toallow divers to swim away from rather thantowards the diving boards after a dive.

Rest ledges: are useful where the waterdepth is greater than 1.8m. They should befully recessed into the finished surface of thetank wall at a water depth of not less than1.2m.

Underwater lighting: can contribute to apleasant atmosphere and help staff seepeople beneath the water surface more easily.Lighting should only be installed in thesidewalls of the tank.

Underwater windows: are useful forsurveillance in those pools used for serioustraining and competition. These are normallyinstalled in the side walls of the tank. Howeverthey can be installed in the end walls if morethan 0.8m below the water surface to avoidinterfering with turning.


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Learner and learner/training pools

The ASA recommend that Learner Pools areprovided with an integral movable floor toincrease programme flexibility for communityuse. Refer to page 37 for further details.

The following criteria apply:

Length: not critical although 13m should bethe preferred minimum length and 20m is apreferred length if the pool is also used fortraining.

Width: should be wide enough for learners tomake several strokes to get from one side tothe other 7m is acceptable.

Water depth: 0.6m sloping to 0.8 or 0.9mpreferred across the width if the pool is usedfor training. This can be accommodated invarious layouts.

Colour of tank finish: white or pale blue.

Pool tank profile: the shallowest part of thepool should be at the base of the pool access

steps, with the pool bottom sloping to itsdeepest point, preferably across the poolwidth.


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Learner/training pool with handrails and shallow steps

Pool tank gradient: must not exceed 1 in15

33; 1 in 20 is preferred.

Pool tank markings: can be provided forinterest and to space school groups evenlythroughout the pool. These should not be acolour or a shape that could be confused witha child in the water. Markings in lines can helpa child to learn to swim in straight lines.

Access steps and ladders: ladders must befully recessed. Steps should be positionedalong the length of the pool rather than at thepool end and should be recessed within thepool surround. Steps should be gently gradedwith treads of not less than 300mm and risersof approximately 140mm. There is a need forhandrails to help children walk down the stepsinto the pool.

Pool edge detail: It is generally agreed that adeck level pool, with the water level the sameas the surround, has advantages. A handgrip for swimmers and an edge with adistinctive colour contrast should be provided.

HSE publication HSG179 Managing Health & Safety inSwimming Pools.


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ASA/FINA Diving Requirements (Plan)

Diving pools

The following criteria apply:

Minimum dimensions: the tank, includingthe board layout, should meet the minimumrequirements set by FINA. However, theFINA preferred standards should be adoptedwhere possible.

A movable floor will allow the pool to be usedfor a wider range of activities but if provided,the depth of the tank should also

accommodate the floor thickness. The overalldimensions could be increased to suit theother activities, such as synchronisedswimming and water polo.

Colour of tank finish: walls can be white orpale blue. A dark-blue floor is preferred asthis, in conjunction with agitation of the watersurface by water sprays assists divers inseeing the water surface and will minimiseaccidents.

Pool tank profile: dimensions will bedetermined by FINA requirements andwhether a movable floor is installed.

Pool edge detail: should be level with thewater with raised ends to assist in divingteaching and coaching.

Ladders and steps: must be recessed. Theyshould be positioned to encourage divers tofollow a safe exit route after completing theirdives, away from the diving boards.

The type and positioning of steps will beaffected by the board layout, other activities

accommodated in the pool and whether amovable floor is planned.

The diving pooloverall dimensions

could be increasedto suit otheractivities, such assynchronisedswimming andwater polo.


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Rest ledges: if provided, must be fully

recessed at a water depth of not less than1.2m

Surface agitators: A FINA requirement tohelp divers in their visual perception of thewater surface. Normally the agitation is madevia a sprinkler directed on to the surface ofthe water.

Bubbler: A bubbler is installed on the poolfloor to provide a compressed air cushion ofbubbles to help protect divers from injury.

Underwater lighting, windows andsurveillance: see page 29.

Training Harnesses: Consideration shouldbe given to the provision of trainingharnesses attached to the roof structurefor some of the boards.

Shower and spa pool: Used by divers to

warm up and relax muscles while out ofthe water for long periods.

Dry land training area: An estimated30% of divers training is in a dry trainingarea. Ideally situated adjacent to thediving pool and equipped withtrampolines, dry boards with foam landingareas, weight training area and trainingharnesses.

Lighting:Should be an even level of 600lux measured at 1m above the surface ofthe water. Glare/specular reflection on thewater surface must be avoided.

See FINA web site for current dimensions fordiving facilities

ASA/FINA Diving Requirements (Section).


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The bulkhead allows divided simultaneous use of two areas of a single swimming pool.

Movable floors and bulkheads

Movable floors are being used more extensivelyto change the water depth over part or all of thepool tank area in order to achieve greaterprogramming flexibility. They allow moreactivities to be accommodated within a singlepool area or improve activities that may becompromised by a fixed depth of water.

There is evidence of greater through-put andreduced net operating cost where they are used,particularly for 50 m pools.

The use of this technique to create dry activitiesit usually limited by the wet humid conditions in

the pool and the difficulties in quickly adjustingthe air temperature and the humidity to achievecomfortable conditions.

Movable pools can be adjusted from a depth of afew centimetres for carer and baby classes to asafe depth of 5.0m for a person diving from a 10m diving board.

With a main pool and learner poolconfiguration as recommended by the ASAthere are a number of locations in which amovable floor can provide benefits

Movable floors allow a wide variety of uses

Where a movable floor is provided as part ofa learner pool, automatically folding steps,(as shown in the illustration) can beintegrated with the movable floor to allowmother and child, or those with ambulantdisabilities to access the pool with greaterease, regardless of its set depth.

There are two types of bulkheads those whichtraverse laterally and when not in use arestationed at one end of a pool and those whichmove vertically and when in their loweredposition are housed in a recess in the pool floor.


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Bulkheads can be used to:

Divide the water area so it can be used fordifferent activities simultaneously. This isoften desirable for safety reasons.

Reduce the length of an existing pool to 25m,which is the length recognised by the ASA fortraining and competition.

Provide measurable distances whereaccuracy is important.

Provide a safety barrier to the edge of amovable floor.

See section 6 for construction issues.

Self depositing steps can be integrated into amovable floor providing easy access whilstmaintaining a fully flexible pool.


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4.5 Changing facilities

Swimming pool changing can be designed aseither an open-plan single-sex area or as avillage changing unisex area with individualcubicles.

The village changing arrangement is usuallypreferred for the various modes of use. Villagechanging can provide:

Greater flexibility to accommodate varyingmixes of male and female users, includingfamily changing and changing for people withdisabilities.

Flexibility to allow staff of either sex to clean

and maintain the area and better service andcleaner changing areas.

34

Improved security through passivesupervision from other areas of the building.This can reduce staffing levels and permits anoverview of general cleaning andmaintenance requirements.

The potential to alleviate perceived threats forfemale users

35(subject to the village

changing being well-designed with cubiclesthat give adequate privacy and of sufficientsize.

There is scope for variations of both systems

with the addition of group single sex changingrooms, buffer rooms and additional cubicles thatare discussed later. This can give a degree ofchoice for user groups. It is recommended thatearly consultation takes place with stakeholdergroups with a view to understanding the fullrequirements of all user groups.

34A variation, used in some European facilities separates

wet and dry circulation. This needs more space and thelayout can be confusing but has advantages in reducingthe migration of dirt into wet areas, selection of

appropriate flooring and the cleaning of the floor.35See Women Sports Foundation UK

http://www.wsf.org.uk/http://www.whatworksforwomen.org.uk/

Changing areas often attract criticism in

otherwise well-designed facilities. The keyissues are:

Adequate spatial allowance for uses tomaintain a sense of personal space.

Capacity to cope with peak times, withoutpinch points, particularly between cubiclesand lockers.

A flexible layout for varying ratios of male andfemale users.

Areas that can be closed off for privacy forsensitive groups with direct access totoilets/pre-cleanse/pool water.

A suitable environment avoiding extremes ofhumidity, air movement (draughts) andtemperature.

Simple and clear circulation routes betweenpoint of entry and the pool hall.

Well designed, robust fittings and goodsupervision to resist vandalism.

Ease of achieving efficient cleaning andmaintenance.

Village changing with view from the pool side.

Design features that can help to achieve bright,crisp and airy surroundings for users include :

A strategic use of natural top lighting e.g. rooflights can improve the appearance of thechanging area and may minimise the use ofartificial lighting.

Bright and warm artificial lighting andmaximising the ceiling height.

Use of bright contrasting colours to walls,cubicles, lockers, signage and graphics.

It is recommended thatearly consultation takesplace with stakeholdergroups with a view tounderstanding the fullrequirements of all users.


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Signs using pictures and text in contrasting coloursto improve visibility. Signs reassure users and mustgive clear information.

General planning principles

For ease of operation and supervisionorganise the route from reception to the pool

in a logical sequence. Make vanity areas spacious enough to

prevent congestion close to the entrance.Take into account bathers entering andleaving in addition to those using the vanityarea.

Make space close to the entry point andwithin sight of reception for storage andparking of baby buggies, prams andwheelchairs.

Ensure that single-sex changing areas andtoilet provision are well screened from

common areas for privacy. Plan the layout to allow effective surveillance

by staff.

Through routes need to be clearly definedand lockers should be positioned between thechanging area and entry to the pool.

Position toilets on the access route to the pooland ensure pre-swim showers are locatedimmediately prior to entry into the pool hall.

Pool changing should not be combined with dry

changing. Pool changing areas generally havehigher temperatures and humidity, lack individualshowers, and are more difficult and expensive tokeep clean.

To avoid cleaning problems, minimise repetitivecirculation where users from the wet side use thesame routes as those from the dry side.

Changing layouts

The following diagrams show typicalarrangement for single sex changing andchanging village.

Single-sex open-plan changing accommodation

should allow flexibility to manage variations inmale/female mix ratios. This can be achievedwith group changing rooms located between thechanging rooms, with interlinking lockable doors,to become buffer changing that can be quicklyallocated to either male or female use.

Some user groups will have specificrequirements. For example, a school pool willrequire more group changing rooms, a specialistpool for people with disabilities will requiremainly large accessible changing cubicles withminimal group changing. Specific requirementsshould be determined by appropriate

consultation prior to preparation of the brief.A standard changing village with cubicles couldbe divided up into dedicated zones for male orfemale use for particular programme sessions.

Lockable group or team changing rooms forschool classes, competition and club use can beincluded as an additional facility. They can alsobe used as an overflow facility during busyperiods.

At off-peak times, the buffer or group rooms willremain locked unless needed for school or groupuse. At peak times they can be opened up toprovide overspill male or female changing.

The changing village is the preferred option formost new pools and a number of existing poolshave converted from single-sex changing tomixed-sex changing villages. For mostcommunity swimming pools a mixed-sexchanging village with at least two lockable groupchanging rooms offers the most cost-effectiveand easily managed arrangement.


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Example of a single sex open plan + some lockers + buffer rooms.

Example of a village changing layout which ensures bathers have to pass the toilet and shower areas and do notenter the pool hall at deep water


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Analysis of types of changing room layouts

Function Mixed-sex village changing Single-sex, open plan changing areas

Usability

Advantages

Simple, direct circulation routes with views to andfrom the pool and other areas.Individual privacyCubicles popular with women ( if design toallowing sufficient personal space and feelingsecure and well supervised)Layout can be designed to ensure users passtoilets and showersAdjacent lockable group changing rooms can alsogive additional capacity at busy times.

At quiet times, users may use as much spaces as theywish.Vacant changing spaces can easily be identified.School groups can be more easily supervised.Layout can be designed to ensure users pass toilets andshowersBuffer rooms can be used for lockable groups changingPopular with club groups

Disadvantages Can be difficult to find a vacant cubiclesMight be difficult for school groups to besupervised and there is the additionalcomplication of storing clothes of the pupils in

lockers.More mingling of fully clothed and wet users

Less open circulation routes to and from the pool andother areas.Lack of individual privacyCubicles may be required in addition.

Privacy barriers required at point of entry to the changingroom and at the pool hall and makes more complex andrestricted circulation pattern

FlexibilityAdvantages

All changing spaces and lockers are available toall users giving flexibility to accommodate anyproportion of male and female users.Parents can share a cubicle with children ofopposite sex.Family groups can change together.

Individual bench changing spaces are not definedmaking it possible to accommodate more users duringbusy periods.

Disadvantages Location of toilets may cause repetitive/cross-circulation where rows of cubicles and lockersopen directly into the pool hall.

Unless buffer changing rooms are provided, there is noflexibility to accommodate different proportions of maleand females.Family changing with parents and children of oppositesex is impossible, except for young children. Provisionmay need to be provided elsewhere.

AccessibilityAdvantages

Helpers can accompany people with disabilities of

opposite sex.Some cubicles can be sized to give privacy topeople with disabilities.

Sufficient free space can be provided so that people with

disabilities can move easily around the changing area.

Disadvantages It can be difficult for people with disabilities tomove around in the cubicles and changing areas

People with disabilities require an assistant of their ownsex.More complex circulation caused by privacy screens canrestrict circulation.

CleanabilityAdvantages

Row of cubicles can be taken out of use duringcleaning (subject to the layout and the location offloor drainage gullies)

Large, relatively uncluttered floor areas should be easierand quicker to clean.If buffer changing rooms are provided these can belocked during off peak times.

Disadvantages Cleaning has to be confined to relatively smallareas at a time and may take longer because ofthe need to work around cubicles and theirsupports

Large open-plan areas may be more difficulty to close offat times of low demand.

ManageabilityAdvantages

One member of staff of either sex can supervisethe entire changing area particularly during offpeak periods.

The entire changing area is normally visible and can beeasily supervised.

Disadvantages There can be hidden areas that are difficult tosupervise.

Requires two members of staff of opposite sex tosupervise the two areas and to deal with problems suchas the opening of lockers.

Capital costAdvantages

Minimum number of lockers required Additional lockers required for different peak demands ofa particular sex

Disadvantages More space per person for a cubicle based layout.

Operating costsAdvantages

Reduced staffing cost for supervision.Can be supervised from the pool side (subject todesign).

Disadvantages Cubicles require additional maintenance Staff of both sexes required for supervision.Cannot be supervised from the pool side.

Calculating numbers


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The standard methodology for assessing the

maximum number of changing spaces requiredis based on:

Number of spaces required for a steady statecondition i.e. when there is a steady flow ofbathers into and out of the pool.

Additional spaces to accommodate call-outgroups: more commonly referred to assession groups. During peak periods the timespent in the pool may have to be limited andthis is normally achieved by giving bathers acoloured wrist or ankle band. Each sessionhas a set minimum time after which the usersare called out of the pool depending on their

band colour to make way for others.

An allowance of 10% for changing spacestemporarily out of use, for example forcleaning during busy times.

Deciding upon the proportions of single,double and family/disabled changing cubiclesand single sex areas with buffer changingzones.

Additional group changing for schools andswimming clubs or as an additional bufferarea.

A typical calculation is shown in appendix 3along with a rule of thumb method for earlystages in a project.

The operators views should be sought onfactors such as:

Proposed programme of activities.

Appropriate pool capacity.

Average swim-time.

Number of session call-out groups to beaccommodated.

The general disposition of spaces for a changing

village should allow for equal numbers of singleand double sized cubicles and for changingrooms for family groups and people withdisabilities.

Benches, coat hooks and lockers

Benches should be cantilevered whereverpossible as it is difficult to clean floor areasaround bench feet. Proprietary systems with castaluminium or galvanised steel supportingbrackets are available with either hardwood orsolid laminate slats.

Vandal-resistant clothes hooks with short

projections should be selected and securelyfixed to the walls.

The methodology for assessing the numbers of

lockers assumes: At any one time the number of people

requiring a locker are those in the pool hallplus those who are changing.

Between 25% of pool users share a locker.

10% or more of lockers will be out of use dueto broken locks, lost keys or for otherreasons.

See typical calculation in appendix 3

Cantilevered benches in a group changing room alloweasy cleaning of the floor. A wall hung heatingsource is located under the bench.

Lockers are generally manufactured in columnsof approximately 1.8m high x 0.3m wide x 0.5 0.6m deep. This will provide a full-height unit orcan be split by intermediate dividers into smaller,individual lockers: half, third or quarter heightunits. However, in order to accommodate sportsbags a proportion of the lockers should be atleast 0.4m wide.

A general rule is to provide half-height units for5070% of the total locker provision with thebalance split equally between quarter and fullheight units.

Some lockers should be large enough to store a

collapsed pushchair or for people with disabilitieswishing to store artificial limbs or walking aids.36

The dispersal of locker is the preferred option,located close to where people change.However, concentration allows staff supervisionand better security, but bathers have to carrytheir clothes a greater distance and risk droppingthem on a wet floor.

36See SE Guidance note Access for Disabled People

has recommendations for number of full height lockers.


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Village changing circulation areas should be generous to allow circulation during peak times.

With a single-sex, open-plan arrangement acertain amount of concentration is inevitable asthe only way to cater for varying numbers ofmale and female users is to provide single-sexchanging with a mixed-sex locker area.

If this is not provided each open-plan area willneed sufficient lockers to accommodate themaximum possible number of users in the pool,taking into account people using buffer changingduring public sessions.

Lockers in buffer or group changing rooms arenot recommended since they cannot easily besupervised and may be a target for vandalism.

Clear views fromchanging cubicles andlockers assist customerorientation.

Locating lockers oppositecubicles reduces the risk

of dropping clothes onto awet floor.


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Preferred minimum dimensions for changing/locker room layouts


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Toilets

Toilets should be provided in accordance withBS 6465 Part 1. They should be sited in aprominent position on the route from thechanging area to the pool hall, before any pre-swim showers. This can be difficult to achievewith a mixed-sex changing village layout wherethe circulation routes between rows of changingcubicles may lead directly onto the poolsurround. Some repetitive circulation isinevitable as the toilets are normally located toone side of the changing area.

Separate-sex toilets are required and need to bedesigned to accommodate users with disabilities.In small pools it is more economical to provide aseparate accessible unisex WC compartment.This can be planned with access from the poolsurround. The toilet design/layout should ensure:

The toilet and urinal area is screened forprivacy.

There are no hidden areas to hinder staffsupervision.

There is sufficient circulation space to enableeasy access for wheelchair users.

Regular cleaning with a hose.

Robust and vandal proof fittings

Showers

Shower provision should be in accordance withBS 6465 Part 1 Table 12

37and based on a 50%

male and 50 % female use of the pool. Forreasons of swimming water hygiene they shouldbe positioned to encourage them to be usedprior to pool entry. Ideally, there should beseparate male and female pre and post swimshower areas. In a mixed sex changing villagethe pre and post swim showers can bepositioned close to each other, adjacent to thepool surround.

Where cost is a factor, showers can cater forboth pre and post swim needs in one area. Theycan be planned close to the pool hall or in arecess off the pool surround to allow indirectstaff supervision

Footbaths are not considered an effectivemethod of cleaning feet and are an impedimentto disabled people. Foot sprays are analternative, although well-positioned showersthat encourage use prior to swimming are thebest option. The shower design and layoutshould ensure:

Adequate warm water consistent with watereconomy

Dirty water is prevented from entering thepool or, in a deck level pool, the surround

channel.

37See notes in Appendix 4 for possible reductions

BS 6465: Part 1: 2006 Table 12 Minimum provision of sanitary appliances for swimming poolsSee Appendix 4 for an example

Sanitary appliance For male pool users For female pool users

WC 2 for up to 100 males; plus 1 forevery additional 100 males orpart thereof

1 per 5 females up to 50 females1; plus 1 for

every additional 10 females or part thereof upto 100 females; plus 1 per 50 females or partthereof thereafter.

Urinal 1 per 20 males up to 100; and 1per 80 males or part thereafter

Washbasin 1 per WC, plus 1 per 5 urinals orpart thereof

1, plus 1 per 2 WCs or part thereof

Shower 1 per 10 males or part thereof 1 per 10 females or part thereofNappy changing = with a WC, washbasin and changing bench (large enough for a

parent, 2 children and a push chair).

Cleaners sinks and storage = 1 per each 100m2

Grooming stations = 1 per 30 lockers for men and 1 per 20 for men.

Additional ambulant WCs = 1 no 1200mm wide WC in any groups of more than 4 or more.

1Where female pool users will not be using the pool in timed sessions, i.e. will not be changing at the

same time, 1 WC per 10 females will be acceptable.


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Showers are not planned with stepped

thresholds and use good falls and floordrainage channels or gullies to remove water.

A number of fully enclosed showers for post-swim showering.

There are waste receptacles close to theshower area for empty shampoo bottles andsachets.

Drop-down shower seats are provided forusers with disabilities.

Showers en route to the pool with banks oflockers.

Solid laminate panels for use in shower areas.

Vanity areas

Vanity areas are also covered by BS 6465 Part 1being calculated as a proportion of the lockerprovision. They can operate as mixed sex-areas,but should be gener

50281523 swimming pool design

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