The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Hot Tub - An Essential Safety Guide-Mandatory Reading - The Association of Pool & Spa ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
The Sensible Way to Enjoy
Your Spa or Hot Tub
Nordic Hot Tubs
An Essential Safety Guide—Mandatory Reading
It is your responsibility to enforce safety rules.
Preface
This booklet has been prepared by The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Spa or Hot Tub
(PHTA) with assistance from the
Canadian Hot Tub Council to Congratulations on being a spa or
inform you about general safe use, hot tub owner. Your spa or hot tub
operation, and maintenance of your can give you, your family, and guests
spa or hot tub. many years of fun and relaxation.
It represents the current knowledge This booklet contains important
of the industry but is not intended safety information you should know
to cover all aspects of spa and hot about operating and maintaining
tub design, operation, installation, your spa or hot tub. It will help
and maintenance. Refer to specific you understand some of the causes
manufacturers’ instructions for of possible spa or hot tub-related
more details on product installation, accidents and how to prevent them.
use, maintenance, and safety and It is your responsibility to be sure
keep them along with this booklet that you, your family, and guests
for ready use and reference. Be use the spa or hot tub sensibly.
sure to pass them along to future
owners or renters. In addition to this booklet, it is
important to read and keep all
Spas and hot tubs are intended to of the operating instructions,
provide many hours of enjoyment. owner’s manuals, and warranties
Just as with any product, you and for your spa or hot tub and its
only you can determine if your spa equipment. Clearly understand
or hot tub is used sensibly. The key the specifics of safe operation and
to safe use of a product is a sensible proper maintenance, which these
and informed consumer. publications provide. Keep these
materials on file for your own
reference, review them seasonally,
and pass them along to future
owners or renters.
©2020 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
Cascade Spas
By carefully reading this Table of Contents
booklet, you may save the life
of a child or prevent
Good Reasons for Thinking
serious harm to yourself, Safety First 2
family members, or friends.
It is your responsibility Drowning Prevention Tips 3
to learn and understand
safety principles and rules. Guidelines for Using
To ensure safety, every Spas and Hot Tubs 6
spa and hot tub owner • Supervision 6
must read this booklet. • Soaking Safety 7
• Exercise 9
• Entertaining 9
Overall Safe Operation
and Maintenance of
Your Spa or Hot Tub 11
• Equipment In and Around
the Spa or Hot Tub 11
• Portable Spas—
Special Considerations 16
• Chemicals 17
• Electrical Maintenance 19
Cascade Spas
• Recommended Use
of Professionals 19
• One More Warning on Drowning:
Children Aren’t Waterproof 20
• For More Information 21
Master Spas
1
Good Reasons for Thinking Safety First
Informed consumers are concerned broken, not securely fastened, or
about safety because serious injuries does not comply with the latest edi-
and even death can result from tion of ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017
unsafe use of spas and hot tubs Standard for Suction Outlet Fitting
and associated products. Here are Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools,
some examples: Spas and Hot Tubs, shut down the
spa or hot tub until the drain cover
DROWNING – According to the U.S. is replaced. Consult a spa or hot tub
Consumer Product Safety professional.
Commission (CPSC) at least
240 children under 5 years old BURNS/FIRES – Chemicals needed
drown in pools, spas, and hot tubs. for clean, sanitized water are poten-
Most of the cases involve residen- tially harmful when stored or used
tial pools. Drowning remains the improperly. If mixed
second leading cause of injury- with other chemicals or elements,
related death among children ages explosions and fire can occur.
1 to 14 in all bodies of water
nationwide in the U.S. ELECTRICAL SHOCK/ELECTRO-
CUTION – Water is an excellent con-
ELEVATED BODY TEMPERATURE – ductor of electricity. Electrical
Soaking for too long at higher shock or electrocution can occur in
water temperatures can elevate a spa or hot tub if live electrical
body temperature and the current (including current from
temperature of internal organs a telephone) comes into contact
beyond safe limits. Pregnant with the water.
women, infants, and children
are especially sensitive to high tem- CUTS, CONTUSIONS, AND ABRASIONS
peratures, as are many people with – These injuries can occur in the
certain medical conditions such as spa or hot tub environment as a
diabetes, heart conditions, and those result of horseplay, improper use of
taking certain prescription medi- equipment or failure to
cines. follow manufacturers’ instructions
or warnings. Serious trauma or dis-
ENTRAPMENT – Suction from non- abling injuries also may occur.
complying outlet/cover grates and
drains can cause entrapment of You can help ensure that your family
hair or body parts and drowning. If and guests are not victims of any of
the drain cover is missing, these unfortunate accidents.
2
Drowning Prevention Tips
Drowning prevention information layers of protection to complement
is not for “someone else.” It is for the requirement for constant, com-
you. Because only by increased petent adult supervision of young
awareness and effort can we reduce children around aquatic environ-
such tragedies. Drowning is one ments. Remember, these layers of
of the leading causes of accidental protection may only delay and may
death for infants and children five not prevent a toddler from entering
and under. the spa or hot tub area. Supervision is
the only way to prevent an accident.
In addition to the Pool & Hot Tub
Alliance, organizations such as the Children are naturally attracted
American Red Cross, the National to swimming pools and associated
Drowning Prevention alliance, pool toys. To prevent drownings
Think First, the Centers for Disease and other serious injuries, you
Control, Young Men’s Christian must keep children away from spas,
Association (YMCA) and the hot tubs, and all bodies of water
National Rehabilitation Hospital, in the absence of adult supervision.
recognize that constant adult Following are some safety tips that
supervision is the primary element in can help save young lives. For more
an integrated approach to drowning information, request the brochures
prevention. titled “Children Aren’t Waterproof”
and “Layers of Protection” from
While supervision is the key to The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance,
accomplishing the objective of phta.org.
reducing the number of submersion
incidents, it is well known that,
at times, children may do the
unexpected, catching their supervi-
sors off guard. Because being caught
off guard does occur and there
may be a lapse in supervision,
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Spas and hot tubs are fun—
(PHTA) has developed a Model but along with the fun comes
Barrier Code, which has been serious responsibility. Be sure
approved by the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) as that good times are safe times.
ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2013) Establish rules and enforce
Model Barrier Code for Residential them.
Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs.
This Model Barrier Code establishes
3• Never leave a child alone or out • Floating toys attract youngsters.
of your eyesight in or near the Remove toys from the spa or hot
spa or hot tub—not even for tub when not in use. Your child
a second. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY can easily fall into the spa or hot
NO SUBSTITUTE FOR CONSTANT, tub while trying to retrieve one.
COMPETENT ADULT SUPERVISION.
(See Supervision section.) • Keep toys, particularly baby walk-
ers, tricycles, or wheel toys, away
• Never leave children with caretak- from inground spas or hot tubs. A
ers or supervisors unless they are child playing with these could acci-
capable and responsible in the spa dentally fall into the water.
or hot tub environment. Appoint
a “designated child watcher.” • Do not rely on plastic inner tubes,
inflatable arm bands, or other
• If you must leave the spa or hot flotation devices to prevent acci-
tub area, even for one minute, dents.
take your child with you. One lapse
in supervision can spell tragedy. • When the spa or hot tub is not in
use, the owner is responsible for
• Remove vegetation and other safeguarding it.
obstacles to ensure a clear view of
the spa or hot tub. Be aware of • Make certain that all doors and
bubbles; they may hinder visibility. gates leading from the house to
the spa or hot tub area are kept
• Do not allow anyone of any age shut and locked/latched whenever
to soak without a “watcher” near- soaking cannot be supervised.
by. Examples of good safety behav-
ior by adults are important to edu- • Make sure any locks or latches
cating and safeguarding children. are above the reach of toddlers
to protect against unauthorized
• Never consider children water-safe entry and use.
despite their swimming skills,
previous instruction, or experience. • A fence, wall, safety cover, or natu-
Many professionals warn that ral barrier shall completely enclose
these lessons may provide a false your spa or hot tub to keep chil-
sense of security to a child’s family dren and unauthorized guests out.
and not actually prepare a child If access gates are used, they should
for surviving a true emergency. have a self-latching or self-closing
mechanism.
• Do not place objects (e.g., chairs
or tables) near the spa or hot tub
fence that could allow a youngster
to climb over.
4• If you use a spa or hot tub cover IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
as a safety cover, it must comply
with ASTM F1346-96 Standard 1. Dial the local emergency
Performance Specifications for telephone numbers (9-1-1, or
Safety Covers and Labeling the appropriate 10-digit num-
Requirements for All Covers for ber for Emergency Medical
Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Service (EMS), Fire, or Police).
Tubs. Also, carefully read the man- It is advisable to install a tele-
ufacturer’s directions for safe use. phone (or use a cordless tele-
Always completely remove the cover phone)
before using your spa or hot tub. Be in the spa or hot tub area.
sure to test the temperature of the
water after removing the cover to 2. Give your:
prevent scalding. A cover on a spa or A. Name,
hot tub can greatly increase the B. Location, and
temperature of the water. Drain any C. Telephone number you
standing water from the surface are calling from.
of your spa or hot tub cover (e.g.,
by using a water pump). Even a 3. Tell what happened and how
small amount of water may be many people need help.
sufficient for an infant or small
child to drown. Be especially alert 4. Don’t hang up the phone
for potential drowning accidents until after the emergency
if you use any lightweight, floating professional does.
spa or hot tub covers (e.g., solar
or insulating covers). These Adults in the family should be trained
are not safety covers and no one in cardiopulmonary resuscitation
should walk or crawl on them. (CPR). CPR is the combination
of rescue breathing and artificial
• To avoid hair and body suction circulation for victims of respiratory
entrapment, never use a spa or or cardiac arrest as a result of
hot tub if any of the cover/grates drowning, heart attack, or other
outlets are non-complying, causes. CPR training is available
missing, broken, or not securely through the local chapters of the
fastened. The suction outlet American Red Cross, Canadian Red
cover/grate must comply with Cross, or the American Heart
ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017 Standard Association. Adults should
for Suction Outlet Fitting also know how to administer mouth-
Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools, to-mouth resuscitation and other
Spas and Hot Tubs. Consult a spa lifesaving techniques.
or hot tub professional.
PREVENTING AN EMERGENCY IS THE
• Do not permit playful screaming BEST PREPARATION: Never leave
for help (false alarms) that might a child alone in or near a pool, spa,
mask a real emergency. hot tub, or any other body of water!
5Guidelines for Using Spas and Hot Tubs
Take special precautions with young Supervision
children who use spas or hot tubs.
Spas and hot tubs are deep enough Supervision is a key element in getting
for children to drown in a matter of maximum, safe enjoyment from
minutes! Such accidents are usually your spa or hot tub. One individual
silent and often without any signs must assume primary responsibility
of distress at the surface. Bubbles for supervising the spa or hot tub.
may obscure visibility. Also, children Appoint a “designated child watcher.”
may become ill from overheating. The supervisor must study the con-
tents of this booklet as well as any
As a spa or hot tub owner, you may instructions from the spa or hot
be legally liable for the safety of tub manufacturer and be thoroughly
all persons who use your facility. familiar with all facets of the safe
You have the ultimate responsibility. operation and maintenance of the
Be sure your insurance policy is spa or hot tub. He or she will take
updated to include ownership of responsibility for communicating
your spa or hot tub. safety information to all persons
who enter the spa or hot tub area.
However, facing ownership responsi- It is a good idea to designate a
bilities does not mean taking the back-up for times when the primary
fun out of using your spa or hot supervisor is unavailable.
tub. If you know about proper safety
practices and use good judgment, The supervisor or “designated child
you will find that the benefits of watcher” is responsible for enforcing
a spa or hot tub can far outweigh “house rules” for your spa or hot tub.
the risks. Here are some guidelines Draw up these rules from information
for using your spa or hot tub. in this booklet and other safety and
maintenance information provided
by the manufacturer or dealer. These
rules should cover such things as
the length of time allowed for a soak,
consumption of alcoholic beverages,
maintenance, use of electrical appli-
ances, and the handling of chemi-
cals. Establish rules immediately.
Write them in simple language and
post them where they are easy to
see—near the spa or hot tub. Use the
Cascade Spas safety information in this booklet to
help develop your safety rules.
6Soaking Safety
Don’t soak for longer than
Soaking in your spa or hot tub is
15 minutes in 104° F (40°C) relaxing, warm, and wonderful.
water. In lower temperatures The hot water soothes your body and
(e.g., 98.6° F 37°C “normal” rejuvenates your spirits. But
that same hot water holds some
body temperature), most potential dangers.
people can safely soak for
longer periods. • Persons with heart disease, diabetes,
high or low blood pressure, or any
serious illness as well as pregnant
women and persons with any doubt
These rules should be clearly about sensitivity to higher tempera-
communicated to and understood by tures, should not enter a spa or hot
all persons, young and old, who use tub without prior consultation with
your spa or hot tub. Most importantly, their doctor.
consistently enforce these rules.
Never leave the spa or hot tub • Before entering, look at the water
unsupervised. When supervision in your spa or hot tub. If there
is not available, even for a moment, is cloudiness or foaming, or if a
close the spa or hot tub. “locker room” or strong chlorine
smell is present, the water needs
It makes sense to pay special attention treatment. Soaking in such water
to educating children about safety greatly increases your chances of
precautions. Teach your children getting a skin rash (pseudomonas).
about equipment maintenance and Be sure to maintain the water
proper upkeep of the spa or hot tub. properly. Ask your spa or hot tub
As they get older, your children will professional for guidance.
learn from your example that they
must respect the spa or hot tub and • People with skin, ear, genital, or
surrounding area and act other body infections, open sores, or
responsibly. wounds should not use the
spa or hot tub because of the
It also makes sense for the possibility of spreading infection.
supervisor and other responsible
family members to be trained in • Shower with soap and water before
artificial respiration and/or and after using the spa or hot tub.
cardiopulmonary resuscitation Showering before use washes away
(CPR). Instruction is available from many of the common skin bacteria
local community organizations such and removes lotions, deodorants,
as the American Red Cross. creams, etc. Perspiration and lotions
will reduce the effectiveness of the
disinfectant and lessen the ability
of the filter to work efficiently.
7• High water temperatures can attack, or injury due to passing out
elevate your body temperature and and falling.
the temperature of internal organs
beyond safe limits. (It’s almost like • As with alcohol, the combined use
having a fever.) It is recommended of certain prescribed medicines
that maximum water temperature and hot water soaking can be
never exceed 104° F (40° C). dangerous. Never use a spa or hot
tub while using or after using
• Soaking too long makes some peo- narcotics or other drugs that may
ple nauseated, dizzy, lightheaded, cause sleepiness or drowsiness
or faint. Don’t soak for more than or raise or lower blood pressure.
15 minutes at one sitting in 104° F With any drug or medication,
(40° C) water. If you wish to soak consult with your doctor about
for a longer period of time in high potentially harmful effects from
temperatures, leave the spa or hot combined use of the drug and
tub after 15 minutes, and then cool hot water soaking. Never use
down and return for another brief a spa or hot tub if you are under
stay. In lower temperatures (e.g., the influence of drugs.
98.6° F, 37° C—normal body tem-
perature), most people can com- • It is best not to soak immediately
fortably and safely soak for longer after eating a heavy meal.
periods at one sitting. If you have
any questions about what’s right • Keep an accurate thermometer
for you and your family, consult in the spa or hot tub at all times
with your doctor. to monitor the water temperature.
Be sure you check the water
• Never use the spa or hot tub when temperature before entering and
you are alone. while in the spa or hot tub.
• Never use a spa or hot tub while using • Do not try to adjust or touch
or after using alcohol. Alcohol acts equipment such as pumps, heaters,
to expand your blood vessels and or electrical appliances while you
increase your body temperature, are in the spa or hot tub, or while
much like soaking in hot water standing in water, unless designed
does. Alcohol in your bloodstream as such and recommended by
and soaking at the same time cre- the manufacturer.
ates a combined effect that can be
damaging. The body temperature • Enter the spa or hot tub slowly
may accelerate to dangerous levels and cautiously. Be careful of your
quickly. The alcohol may cause footing and allow your body
nausea, dizziness, or lightheaded- to gradually get used to the water
ness. The ultimate danger of com- temperature. Leave slowly as well,
bined alcohol consumption and because your leg muscles may
hot water soaking is drowning due be sufficiently relaxed to make
to loss of consciousness, heart you a bit unsteady and you may
become lightheaded.
8• Never allow children to use the spa Entertaining
or hot tub unsupervised. Children
enjoy playing in water and may Your spa or hot tub can be the focal
not understand the risks involved point for happy entertaining. Plan
in overexposure. Discretion is ahead to prevent accidents and injuries
advised in allowing children to use to make your entertaining truly enjoy-
spas and hot tubs at all, since their able.
young bodies may not adjust well
to the high temperatures. If in • Your family and guests are likely to
doubt, check with your doctor for be intrigued by your new spa or hot
specific recommendations for your tub. Before they go in—and especial-
children given their age or other ly if it is their first time in a hot
medical considerations. water facility—explain the safety
precautions. Point out how to enter
• If children will be using your spa it and where the seats are located.
or hot tub, explain to them that they
cannot under any circumstances • Food and drink play an important
dive or jump into it. While a spa part in your entertaining. Establish
or hot tub may seem deep and an area away from the spa or hot tub
large to a child, it is not designed for refreshments to prevent acciden-
for jumping, diving, or underwater tal slips or falls caused by spills near
swimming. Serious injury can the spa or tub or on the deck and to
result if any of these are attempted. prevent debris from falling into the
water.
Exercise • More likely than not, your guests
will be barefooted while near the spa
Your spa or hot tub is an excellent or hot tub. Use only unbreakable
place to relax your cares away. It dishes, beverage containers, and
is also good for “warming up” with utensils. Never use glass anywhere
simple flexibility exercises. These near the spa or hot tub. Broken
exercises are easier in water because glass is invisible in water and
water effectively lessens the pull extremely difficult to get out of the
of gravity on your body. Be aware support system.
of the weakening effect of hot water
and don’t overdo it. If you wish • Keep electrical appliances a signifi-
to exercise in your spa or hot tub, cant distance from the spa or hot
lower the temperature to 80° F, tub. Don’t use extension cords.
26.6°C. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter
(GFCI) on any appliance that must be
Before beginning any exercise pro- near the spa or hot tub. Where possi-
gram, consult your physician. Use ble, use battery-operated appliances
good judgment in monitoring your around the spa or hot tub.
own exercise and supervising others Electrocution from appliances and
who exercise in your spa or hot tub. telephones in contact with water is a
real danger.
9• If you use your spa or hot tub at • If your spa or hot tub is outdoors,
night, provide adequate lighting stay out of it during lightning
around the facility. or rainstorms, because of the
possibility of electrocution from
• Alcohol consumption and spa and the lightning hitting the water.
hot tub activities do not mix.
Alcohol acts as a depressant. It can • You have the bottom-line responsi-
“slow you down” because it affects bility in entertaining. Use good
the part of the brain that exercises judgment to help protect yourself,
restraint and control. Alcohol can your family, and guests. If you are
instill false courage or “bravado,” unsure of any person’s condition
leading people to try things they or abilities, prohibit them
normally would not. Therefore, per- from using your spa or hot tub.
sons who have been drinking alco- Remember, you are in charge
hol should not be allowed of your facility.
in the spa or hot tub and should
be carefully supervised in the
surrounding area. One More Word on
Alcohol Consumption
• Prescription and over-the-counter
medicines sometimes cause Many people believe they have to
drowsiness or have other side effects. drink a lot to be affected by alcohol.
If you are taking prescription med- Studies show this just isn’t true.
icine, check with your doctor before The alcohol in just one or two beers
using the spa or hot tub. can affect your judgment, even
though you don’t feel or appear
• Never allow anyone who has been to be “drunk.’’ Even a small amount
drinking alcohol or using drugs of alcohol can slow your reflexes.
to go into the spa or hot tub. This is especially true if you
There is a great possibility that are tired or on medication such
the person could drown or be as cold or allergy remedies or
seriously injured. prescription drugs.
• Do not allow running on the deck
or area around the spa or hot tub, as
injuries may occur from slips and Entertaining can be both fun
falls. and safe with a little planning
and good judgment. Use only
unbreakable dishes, beverage
containers, and utensils.
And never allow anyone to
soak if under the influence
Cascade Spas
of alcohol or drugs.
10Overall Safe Operation and Maintenance
of Your Spa or Hot Tub
Keeping your spa or hot tub in top COVERS (SOLAR AND
operating form is very important INSULATING ONLY)
to help ensure the safety of those who • Spa covers are a real benefit
use it and to protect your investment. to you in terms of saving energy
Carefully read, understand, and follow and keeping debris out of the
the operating and maintenance spa. For safe installation, use,
instructions supplied by the spa and maintenance of these covers,
or hot tub manufacturer and the carefully read and follow the
manufacturers of associated products directions of the manufacturer.
(e.g., chemicals). This booklet is These are not safety covers. They
not intended to replace information do not prevent drowning or entry
supplied by manufacturers. A good into the spa or hot tub. Avoid
general rule is to visually inspect your the possibility of someone being
spa or hot tub area and equipment trapped under the spa cover by
regularly. If anything looks broken, completely removing the cover
worn, corroded, frayed, or not right, before use. Safety spa covers must
contact your spa or hot tub profes- be in compliance with ASTM
sional for advice and repairs. A F1346-96 Standard Performance
simple repair or replacement may Specifications for Safety Covers
prevent an injury or save a life. It and Labeling Requirements for
also may prevent more serious or All Covers for Swimming Pools,
expensive equipment problems. Spas, and Hot Tubs. For more
information, see Drowning
Prevention Tips.
Equipment In and Around
the Spa or Hot Tub • Be sure to test the temperature
of the water right after removing
There are many products that you the cover. A cover on a spa or
will buy to complement your spa hot tub can greatly increase the
or hot tub. Be aware of all precau- temperature of the water.
tions related to the installation,
use, and maintenance of these • Forbid children from playing on
products. Follow the manufacturers’ top of the spa or hot tub cover.
instructions for use.
• Most spa and hot tub covers
aren’t designed to support the
weight of a child. Be especially
alert if you use a lightweight,
floating cover.
Caldera Spas
11DECKS tects against unauthorized entry and
• A deck or patio around your spa use. (The inside latch should be
or hot tub can add real beauty above the reach of toddlers or
and enjoyment. Be sure your young children.) Check with your
deck or patio has a slip resistant state, providence and local govern-
surface with adequate drainage. ment to learn their specific legal
Overall, slips and falls constitute requirements concerning barriers
the greatest number of accidents and other layers of protection
involving water facilities. Keep around spas or hot tubs. If none
the deck or patio clean and clear exist, contact the PHTA for the
of all debris. Check periodically ANSI approved Model Barrier Code
for any signs of wear and (ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2013)
tear, which may make these Model Barrier Code for Residential
surfaces hazardous. Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot
Tubs) and the PHTA brochure
• Insist that there be no running, “Layers of Protection.”
pushing, or roughhousing near You cannot be too cautious.
the spa or hot tub. If your spa or hot tub is indoors, lock
the door to the room or have a cover
that locks to keep out children and
Layers of Protection other unauthorized users.
• Spas and hot tubs are attractive to • Alarms similar to burglar alarms
children, and children must be kept may be placed on the doors to alert
away from them in the absence of caretakers of unauthorized entry to
adequate adult supervision. Layers the spa or hot tub area. All fences
of protection, such as a fence, wall, can be climbed by children given
or natural barrier of sufficient sufficient time. Do not assume that
height, can help keep out children your spa or hot tub is safe from
under the age of five and other entry because you have a fence. A
unauthorized users. All gates or fence may lull you into a false
doors giving access to the spa or hot sense of security. Only competent,
tub should have a self-closing and constant adult supervision can pre-
self-latching mechanism that pro- vent drowning accidents. All layers
of protection must be kept in good
working order at all times.
Layers of protection such as a fence, wall, or natural barrier around
your outdoor spa or hot tub can help keep out children under the
age of five and all other unauthorized users. If your spa or hot tub
is indoors, lock the door to the room or have a locking safety cover
in place when the facility is not in use.
______________________________________________________
12HANDRAILS, STEPS, AND LADDERS (GFCIs), which are designed
• Handrails, steps, and ladders to protect against the hazards
must be securely mounted. of electrical shock.
Routinely inspect them to ensure
that they are firmly in place. • If you are installing your own
Check for broken treads, sharp spa or hot tub, it is your
edges, and loose bolts and nuts. responsibility to make certain
Keep handrails, steps, and lad- that all work performed
ders unobstructed for use. Don’t complies with the National
use them for hanging towels or Electrical Code, Canadian
other items. Electrical Code and all other
applicable codes and regulations.
• If your spa or hot tub has a
removable ladder for entry, FITTINGS, GRATES, AND DRAIN
remember to remove it when the COVERS
facility is not to be used or when • Your spa or hot tub’s inlet and
no supervision is available. outlet fittings, grates and skim-
mer, and main drain covers
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS must be designed to prevent
• To safely use electricity in and entrapment. They must comply
around your spa or hot tub, you with the latest edition of
must have equipment expressly ANSI/APSP-16 Suction Fittings
designed for this purpose. for Use in Swimming Pools,
Consult with a licensed electrician Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot
for help in correctly equipping Tubs. They also must be kept in
your spa or hot tub area for good repair and must be secured
electricity. Ask the licensed elec- in such a manner that they can’t
trician to be aware of any local be removed without the use of
electrical codes that apply in tools. If broken suction, call for
your area. Ensure that your spa service immediately and do not
or hot tub and its equipment use hot tub.
are designed and installed to
conform to the National Electrical
Code for spas/hot tubs and Keep grates and drain covers
related equipment. Electrical
in good repair and secured in
work is not for do-it-yourselfers
or other amateurs. Contract place. Alert your family and
with a licensed electrician guests to stay away from these
to make sure that all of your
devices, as the suction from
outside electrical lines (not just
those for the spa or hot tub and drain outlets is strong enough to
its equipment and accessories, cause entrapment of hair
but also for other appliances
or body parts, which can
used outside as well) are all
protected against by ground cause drowning.
fault circuit interrupters
13• Tell children, particularly, that
these devices are not toys. Instruct
WARNING all users not to stick their fingers,
DROWNING HAZARD toes, or body into them. Entrap-
ment and drowning can occur.
• Anyone with long hair should be
cautioned not to get their hair
near a spa or hot tub outlet. The
suction can cause hair or body
entrapment and drowning. Keep
Avoid Evisceration
long hair away from the suction
fitting drain cover/grate. If you
have long hair, pin it up or wear
a bathing cap. A drain without
a cover/grate can have a pull of
approximately 700 lbs. (317.5
Kg)—enough to hold an adult
under water! Never allow a child
Avoid Drain Covers
to play in a way that could per-
mit the child’s hair to come near
the drain cover.
• Never play or swim near drains
or suction fittings. Your body
or hair may be trapped causing
permanent injury or drowning.
Avoid Body Entrapment
• Never enter the pool or spa if a
suction fitting or the drain cover
is loose, broken, or missing.
• Immediately notify the pool/spa
owner or operator if you find
the drain cover loose, broken,
Avoid Finger Entrapment
or missing.
FILTER SYSTEMS
• Most filter systems can maintain
internal pressure even when shut
off. Never perform work on your
Avoid Hair Entanglement filter equipment without turning
14the entire system off and bleeding HEATERS
off the internal pressure. When • Heaters should be installed
you restart your filter after according to the manufacturer’s
maintenance or when you are instructions and should be in
turning on your equipment to accordance with state or local
put your spa or hot tub in opera- government regulations or fire
tion, always bleed off the air in codes. Heaters can be danger-
your filter tank, and even then, ously hot to the touch. Do not
stand back. Serious bodily injury place or drape any flammable
can occur if the top of the filter material (e.g., a towel or tee
separates from the bottom with shirt) on top of or near a heater.
sudden force because of some
problem or error on your part. • If you wish to use a propane
Always securely clamp the top heater, consult local regulations
and bottom of a two-piece filter for the safe use, hook-up, and
in accordance with the manufac- storage of propane products.
turer’s specifications. Serious These regulations may be under
bodily injury can result if the the control of local fire or muni-
top of a two-piece filter is blown cipal departments, county build-
off by air pressure that is allowed ing codes, etc. Learn of your local
to accumulate in the tank. regulations and follow them.
If you are at all unsure of how
to proceed, call your spa or hot • With propane or natural gas
tub professional. heaters, when lighting or relighting
the pilot or turning the heater on
• Carefully follow the manufactur- or off, refer to the manufacturer’s
er’s instructions for maintaining, instructions on the name and
servicing, or repairing a filter or rating plate. This plate is attached
separation tank. Regularly inspect to the heater inside the control
this equipment while it is turned compartment. Following these
off, with the idea of replacing instructions will prevent injuries.
worn or damaged parts. Never Gas is explosive and flammable.
inspect filtration equipment
without being sure that the • IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: Fossil
internal pressure has been bled fuel appliances, like spa heaters,
off through the manual valve produce poisonous carbon
provided for that purpose. Refer monoxide gas as a byproduct
to manufacturer’s instructions. of combustion. Proper venting
of exhaust gases and the correct
• Filtration equipment requires sizing of gas meters, gas supply
care in handling as well as piping, make-up air intakes, etc.
regular maintenance and are critical installation consider-
replacement parts to function ations in preventing potential
properly and efficiently. carbon monoxide gas poisoning
or loss of life.
15MAINTENANCE OF WATER • At least one responsible person
• Keep the spa or hot tub clean should be trained in artificial res-
and clear of debris. Keep the piration and/or cardiopulmonary
water clean so that you can see resuscitation (CPR). Such training
the bottom when entering (or is available from local organiza-
before turning on the water jets). tions such as the American
Red Cross or the Red Cross of
• Use an EPA-registered sanitizer Canada.
and follow the use directions
on the label to protect against
the spread of infection. Do not Portable Spas
assume that because the water (Cord Connected)—
is clear it has been properly Special Considerations
sanitized. Periodically check the
sanitizer levels to ensure they In addition to all of the guidelines
are maintained according to the for spas and hot tubs, there are
label directions. some special conditions for portable
spas, which plug into existing
• Keep the spa or hot tub filled electrical outlets.
to its proper level. Periodically
check the water levels. • Have a licensed electrician verify
that the amperage capacity of the
• Change the water on a schedule circuit into which the portable spa
recommended by your spa or is connected, exceeds the amperage
hot tub professional. rating of the spa equipment. Most
portable spas require a 20-amp
FIRST AID circuit with no other appliances
• Have a complete first aid kit operating from the same circuit
near the facility and make sure as the spa.
that someone knows how to use
the contents properly. Post a list • Do not assume that the wall outlet
of emergency telephone numbers for the portable spa is properly
by the phone nearest the spa grounded. Have a licensed electri-
or hot tub (or keep a cordless cian check for the quality of the
phone nearby). This list should ground in the circuit. When used
contain the names and telephone in accordance with the ground
numbers of the closest physician, fault circuit interrupter (GFCI),
ambulance service, hospital this ground provides the only safe-
and police, fire, or rescue unit. ty measure in the event of electrical
It is a good idea to include your malfunction of the spa equipment
home address on this list. In an or connecting cord.
emergency, it’s not uncommon
for someone to panic and forget
his or her own address.
16• Have a licensed electrician verify STORAGE
that all portable spa equipment • Chemical reagents for test kits
is wired through a GFCI, and test should be replaced each year.
the GFCI regularly to ensure proper
operation in case of electrical • Keep the original lids on all
malfunction. chemical containers and make
sure the lids are tightly closed
• Do not use extension cords. when not in use.
• Do not use plug receptacles that • Do not stack different chemicals
could be exposed to weather or on top of one another.
moisture.
• Store your spa or hot tub chem-
icals in a clean, cool, dry, well-
Chemicals ventilated area, preferably off
the floor, to prevent contamina-
The chemicals needed for your spa tion from other materials. Never
or hot tub help make it clean, safe, store chemicals near the spa or
and more attractive to use. But, hot tub heater. Always keep
remember that these chemicals them away from chemicals and
are potentially dangerous and may equipment used for garden and
present some hazards if not used lawn maintenance. Keep acids
properly. Carefully follow the manu- away from other chemicals.
facturer’s instructions for the use
and storage of chemicals. In general, • Keep liquid chemicals away
here are some tips for chemical from dry chemicals. Physically
use and storage: separate different forms of
chemicals. Chemicals that are
• Before using chemicals, read the labeled as “oxidizers” should be
labels and directions carefully. kept apart from other chemicals.
Follow label use instructions.
• Keep all chemicals out of the reach
of children.
Don’t guess with chemicals.
Before using, read the labels
and follow directions carefully.
Be sure to store them properly. Leisure Works Spas
17• Do not store your spa or hot tub •Wash out empty chemical con-
chemicals where other flamma- tainers before disposal to elimi-
ble items may mix with them. nate danger of fire, explosion,
For example, a mixture of these or poisoning.
chemicals and fertilizer can
cause a fire or explosion. • Test the water in your spa or hot
tub with a reliable test kit on
• Wash your hands thoroughly a schedule recommended by your
after using chemicals. spa or hot tub professional.
Add the necessary chemicals
USAGE according to the test results and
• Never mix two chemicals together. the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use a clean scoop for each chemi- In the hot water environments
cal, and never combine material of spas and hot tubs, disinfec-
from “old” and “new” containers. tants may rapidly break up
and spread out, requiring more
• Always add chemicals to water. frequent water testing. (The
Never add water to chemicals. higher temperatures deplete the
chemicals faster.) Follow your
• Always add the chemicals direct- manufacturer’s instructions
ly to the spa or hot tub water, in this regard. Also, the more
either in a suitable feeder, people who use the facility, the
distributed across the surface more frequently you should
of the water, or diluted and test the water.
poured into the water. Follow
label use instructions. • Do not inhale dust or fumes
from any chemicals. If neces-
• When preparing water solutions sary, use proper protective
for feeder application, pour the devices
chemical slowly into the appro- for breathing, handling, and
priate amount of water, stirring eye protection. Promptly wash
constantly to provide mixing off any residues that get on
and dilutions. your skin.
• Never add chemicals to the spa • Never reuse old chemical
or hot tub water while people containers.
are using the facility.
• If you have any questions
• Carefully clean up any spilled regarding safe handling, storage,
chemicals with large amounts or use of spa or hot tub chemi-
of water, to dilute and wash cals, contact the manufacturers.
away the chemicals. Check with The phone number and website
local authorities before sending of the chemical manufacturing
disinfectants and pH adjustment company is usually on the label
chemicals to the sewer as waste. of the product.
18Working with electricity is usually a job best left to the experts.
Don’t take chances.
Electrical Maintenance • Do not stand in water while
operating electrical components.
Working with electricity is a job best
left to the experts. Here are some gen- Recommended Use
eral safety rules and precautions for of Professionals
electrical maintenance:
For your protection, only spa or hot
• Before working with any electrical tub professionals, licensed electri-
equipment, make sure the cians, builders, carpenters or other
electricity is turned off at the appropriate experts should perform
circuit breaker or fuse box. the following services:
• Make sure that the electrical • Selection, installation, and servic-
outlets near the spa or hot tub are ing of electrical equipment, heaters,
protected by ground fault circuit filters, and separation tanks; covers
interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are (including solar); solar systems;
designed to prevent electrical shock. plumbing and related devices.
They are a kind of “fail safe” device
that can shut off electrical current in • Building of walls, fences, and
fractions of seconds. other barriers as layers of
Ask a licensed electrician for protection to children and other
more details. unauthorized users.
• If you have any frayed cords, loose • Annual inspection of all spa and
connections, sparking or arcing, turn hot tub equipment and accessories.
off the power at the circuit breaker
and call a licensed electrician.
• Have a licensed electrician inspect
and test all equipment prior to initial
operation and before each season.
• Never replace bulbs for underwater
lights yourself. Get an expert to do
this for you.
• Do not let water accumulate on the
floor or deck areas where electrical Hot Spring Spas
switches are located.
19One More Warning The American Academy of
on Drowning: Children Pediatrics recommends:
Aren’t Waterproof 1. If parents wish to enroll infants
in a water adjustment and swim-
The popularity of swimming
ming program, it should be on a
instruction for preschoolers has
one-to-one basis with the parent
increased dramatically over the
or a responsible adult. Total
last few years. “Water adjustment”
submersion should be prohibited.
or “water proofing” classes have
Organized group swimming
attempted to create acceptance
instruction is not recommended
of water by young children, provide
for children under three years
young children with “survival”
of age.
types of reactions to remain afloat
after accidental entrance into
2. Instruction should be carried out
water, develop coordination, and
by trained instructors in properly
provide exercise. Many professionals,
maintained pools.
however, warn that these lessons
may provide a false sense of security
3. Infants with known medical
to a child’s family and not actually
problems should receive
prepare a child for surviving a
clearance from their physicians.
true emergency.
4. Efforts to reduce the number of
drownings among children should
concentrate on two methods of
proven effectiveness:
A. The assurance of constant,
competent adult supervision
for children or non-swimmers
in swimming areas.
B. The use of personal flotation
devices for all non-swimmers
close to bodies of water or
in boats.
5. People who own pools or spas
should be properly trained in
cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR).
Hot Spring Spas
20For More Information
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) offers many publications
and materials to help you enjoy your spa or hot tub. They also offer informative
materials on inground and aboveground pools.
CONTACT:
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
2111 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.PHTA.org
Cascade Spas
Notice to Parents and Spa/Hot Tub Owners
It is your responsibility to enforce the rules of safety. A good exercise would
be to have each of your children and the other spa/hot tub users who reside
with you read this booklet and sign in one of the spaces indicated below. This
will help you enforce the rules since you can always refer back to their promise
reflected by their signature.
We the undersigned have read this safety booklet. We understand what it says
and we promise to follow the rules of safety and to use our common sense.
PARENTS: The life and health of you and your children as well as your friends and
neighbors are important. Please practice safety and supervise your spa or hot tub.2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 500
Alexandria VA 22314
PHTA.org
5 MacDougall Drive
Brampton, Ontario, Canada L6S 3P3
poolcouncil.ca
About PHTA
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) is the world’s oldest and largest association
representing swimming pool, hot tub, and spa manufacturers, distributors,
manufacturers’ agents, designers, builders, installers, suppliers, retailers, and service
professionals. Dedicated to the growth and development of its members’
businesses and to promoting the enjoyment and safety of pools and spas, PHTA
offers a range of services, from professional development to advancing key
legislation and regulation at the federal and local levels, to consumer outreach and
public safety. PHTA is the only industry organization recognized by the American
National Standards Institute to develop and promote national consensus standards
for pools, hot tubs, and spas. For more information, visit PHTA.org.
About The Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada
The Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada is an association representing the interests of
the top companies that make up the pool and spa industry in Canada. Abiding by
the Code of Ethics, Member companies perform to the highest standards of
workmanship and service. The Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada is a national, not-
for-profit association of companies, organizations and individuals involved in the
aquatic leisure industry. Members include builders and contractors, retailers, service
providers, manufacturers and distributors of swimming pools, hot tubs and water
feature products. Members also include public pool operators and related safety
organizations. Our members promote the safe enjoyment of pools and hot tubs by
sharing their knowledge with others. We encourage only the highest standards of
quality and professionalism so that all Canadians can take pleasure from our
products and services.
WARNING: There is no substitute for constant,
competent adult supervision in
the spa or hot tub environment.
Lives depend on you!You can also read
