2024 Ontario Building Code: Public Pool Ramp and Diving Board Safety Requirements
Sarah's Expert Insight
OBC Compliance Specialist
"Navigating the complexities of submerged ramp slopes and FINA-compliant diving clearances is critical for municipal and healthcare projects in London, Oakville, and Muskoka. At empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we prioritize these accessibility details during the design phase to prevent costly retrofits and ensure your facility is fully inclusive and code-compliant."
Compliance with OBC Section 3.11.5 for Public Pool Construction
Designing public aquatic facilities in Ontario requires strict adherence to the 2024 Building Code Compendium. As your expert partner, empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, ensures that every ramp and diving platform meets these rigorous safety and accessibility standards.
Section 3.11.5.1: Barrier-Free Ramps into Public Pools
To provide safe entry and egress for all users, ramps must be designed with specific dimensions and safety features:
- Handrails: Must be installed on both sides, with a height between 865 mm and 965 mm, following the ramp's slope.
- Dimensions: Ramps require a minimum width of 1,100 mm and a landing at the bottom that is at least 1,500 mm long.
- Safety Features: Curbs must be present to prevent wheelchairs from slipping off the sides, and surfaces must be non-slip and easy to sanitize.
Submerged vs. Non-Submerged Ramp Specifications
The code differentiates between ramp types based on their interaction with the water:
- Non-Submerged Ramps: Must have a slope no steeper than 1 in 12. These require floor drains at the landing and specific wall widths (250 mm to 300 mm) between the ramp and pool.
- Submerged Ramps: Allowed a slightly steeper slope of 1 in 9. The water depth at the bottom must be between 600 mm and 900 mm, and different colors or shades must be used to distinguish the ramp from the pool floor for better visibility.
3.11.5.2: Specialized Requirements for Care and Treatment Facilities
In Group B major occupancies, such as hospitals or long-term care homes in London and Oakville, the code allows for flexibility. For pools under 100 m² with depths under 1,500 mm, up to 50% of the pool deck can be replaced by ramps to facilitate wheelchair access for bathers.
High Diving Platforms and FINA Standards
Safety is paramount for diving facilities. Any board or platform higher than 3 meters must be equipped with a gate or barrier to control access. Furthermore, these high-level structures must comply with FINA Facilities Rules 2021-2025 regarding water depth and clearance distances.
Disclaimer: This content is generated from the Ontario Building Code for educational purposes. Always consult with a licensed professional engineer or your local building department before starting any construction project in London, Ontario.