The swimming pool is a great place to relax, cool off, and even get some exercise. But, for those living with mobility challenges, it may not be that easy to get in and out of the pool. In the past, it has been a challenge to get people with mobility challenges in and out of the water; however, the ADA recently changed rules for owners of public swimming pools and their usage of pool lifts.

Pool Lifts Give Accessibility to All

Being in a pool can help individuals with mobility challenges feel as if they are in the Fountain of Youth. Getting in and out of the pool safely is another challenge altogether. This is where pool lifts come into play.

A pool lift acts as a mobile wheelchair to lower and raise the disabled person safely in and out of the water. The lift allows people to experience the same benefits of the pool as others without the mobility challenge. ASP - America's Swimming Pool Company offers installation of safety equipment, including pool lifts.

Regulating Pool Lifts

According to the new ADA regulations, there are a few types of lifts that are allowable. These include:

Fixed, stationary lifts
Portable lifts (store when not in use)
Permanent lifts (attached to the pool deck, available for use at any time)
Water Powered Lifts (Use the pool water supply as part of their hydraulics to lift the chair. Proper water levels must be maintained for the lifting capacity to work.)
Manual Lift (Requires another person to turn a crank to lower the user into and out of the water.)

Pool owners who have pool lifts must be careful that lifts are used properly, and not as a toy by younger swimmers.

Whether you are the owner of a commercial or residential swimming pool, your local ASP - America's Swimming Pool Company franchise can assist you with all of your pool lift needs. Our teams are friendly and knowledgeable and understand the pros and cons of the different types of lifts.