Do I Need to Install a Handrail if My Pool Has Steps?

In some instances, you’ll need to have a handrail if your swimming pool has steps, depending on what’s required by relevant codes and regulations. These are sometimes statewide, although they can also apply locally or in a specific county. The experienced professionals from San Diego Pools, the pool builder San Diego residents trust for high-quality construction and exceptional service, discuss if and when you need a handrail if your pool has steps.

State & Local Requirements

As mentioned above, some states, counties, cities, and towns require handrails on pool steps. In most instances, just a single handrail is required. San Diego doesn’t have any specific requirements for handrails for pool steps, so if your pool is in this city, it’s entirely up to you when it comes to deciding whether to install a handrail. Even when it’s your choice, a handrail is worth considering if the following circumstances apply:

• You have household members with disabilities
• You have younger children or nonswimmers in your household
• You have older household members who swim or use the pool
• You regularly have guests come over to use the pool

ADA Compliance

If you have someone in your household with a disability, you’ll definitely need a handrail to maintain compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA also requires at least two accessible points of entry for your pool along with a pool lift, if necessary. With handrails, the ADA requires rails on both sides of a downward-facing entry point, which would apply to steps.

Possibilities with Handrails for Pool Steps

If you opt for a handrail or need one to comply with local or state codes, there are several options to consider. For example, handrails can be fairly thick or wide. You can also add grip tape to handrails, since pool users have wet hands. Handrails can have decorative features as well, which can be very much appreciated if you have a pool with appealing features like waterfalls or a pool deck that includes stamped or decorative concrete.

Handrails can also be standalone features. For example, you can place a handrail directly on the side of the pool. In this instance, pool users simply grab the handrail to get out of the pool. Whether this is practical depends on who uses your pool on a regular basis and how it’s used. Of course, you can always install handrails on your pool steps and one or two standalone rails.

It’s worth noting handrails can be added at any time. You can discuss the options with the pool builder when he or she is beginning to construct your pool. This gives you more alternatives with placement, since you can add as many options for pool entries as you prefer or need. You can also add handrails later on if you have a need to do so. For example, you might have a new child, or an elderly family member may develop mobility issues. A pool builder can help you out with situations of this nature as well.

If you have any questions about how to make your pool safer, call the experienced professionals at San Diego Pools. We are a premier residential and commercial pool builder, and our team of pool design and construction experts is dedicated to building the pool that’s right for your family and providing you with the highest-quality service in the industry. Give us a call today at 888-707-7786.