PRE-USE CHECKLIST
Note: This checklist is meant to help guide you through a thorough inspection of your swimming pool and appurtenances prior to using it for swimming each year. Although this list is fairly comprehensive, it is not complete. It is only a guide and may not address all of the features associated with your individual pool. As such, it is highly recommended that you consult a swimming pool maintenance professional, as necessary, prior to making your pool available for swimming. Also, your pool may be subject to other requirements by state and/or local governmental agencies. Please consult these entities prior to installing or using your pool - Poolstuff.info
If you want to know whether your state has laws affecting your swimming pool or hot tub, Click here.
RESIDENTIAL POOL PRE-USE CHECKLIST
(See the Poolstuff.info home page for further details)
- Outside of Pool Enclosure
- Examine Enclosure
- Check for holes or areas of access greater than 4". Make sure that the gate or door in the enclosure which allows access to the pool is self-closing and self-latching
- Examine Enclosure
- Inside of Pool Enclosure
- Examine Deck Area
- Deck: check for cracks or sharp edges
- Pool Walls/Bottom:check for cracks, tears, holes, bunching vinyl, etc.
- Skimmers, skimmer baskets, weirs: check that all parts are installed
- Main drain: make sure that the drain cover is correctly and tightly installed
- Electrical Hazards
- Identify and check electric emergency shutoff switch or button. The switch should immediately turn off all electricity to the pool, be located within a short distance from the pool, and be labeled
- Safety Equipment
- Check for safety signs (e.g., "No Diving", "No Running", etc.), whatever is appropriate for your pool. Post a sign which lists emergency phone numbers, such as 9-1-1 or whatever is appropriate, and the location of the nearest telephone
- Check for other safety equipment such as a reach pole, ring buoy or other throwing device to help someone out of the pool, a spine board in case someone hurts their neck or back while diving into the pool, and any other equipment you deem necessary
- Identify the location of the nearest first aid kit. Make sure it is adequately stocked. Also, it would be wise to take a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) course
- Pump and Filter System
- Look for wear on your pump. Arrange for servicing, if necessary
- Inspect the filter. If you have a sand filter, replace the sand, if necessary. If you use a cartridge filter, make sure cartridges are clean
- Sanitization System
- Examine your method of adding sanitizer to the water. Make sure there is an adequate amount of fresh chemicals (e.g., chlorine, bromine, cyanuric acid, if appropriate) and any other chemicals that you use to keep your water clean and clear. You should also check the test kit that you use to test your water. Make sure it has fresh reagents and is fully stocked prior to opening your pool
- Examine Deck Area
