1. Licensing and Regulatory Compliance

This section outlines the general framework for obtaining and renewing a Swimming Pool License across India. It's crucial to note that specific requirements, issuing authorities, and timelines will vary significantly by state, city, and local municipal corporation. Facility operators must consult the relevant local governing bodies for the precise documentation and procedures applicable to their location.

• A. Obtaining a New Swimming Pool License
  • Proof of Legal Occupancy: This could be Proof of Ownership, a Lease Deed, or a Rent Agreement for the premises.
  • NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Property Owner/Director/Management Body.
  • Approved Site Plan/Building Plan: A layout or site plan approved by the competent local authority (e.g., municipal planning department).
  • Authorization: An Authorization letter or Board Resolution in favor of the individual or entity applying for the license.
  • Affidavits/Undertakings: Sworn affidavits on non-judicial stamp paper, attested by a Notary Public, often affirming compliance with regulations, safety, and no criminal records.
  • Photographs of the Swimming Pool: Images from various angles to demonstrate the existing facility.
  • Identity Proof of Applicant/Authorized Signatory: Common government-issued IDs such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Driving License, Passport, or PAN Card.
  • Address Proof of Applicant/Entity: Such as Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Electricity Bill, Landline Telephone Bill, Rent/Lease Deed, or Property Ownership Documents.
  • Commercial Registration (if applicable): For commercial swimming pools, a GST Registration Certificate or other relevant business registration documents.
  • Health Department: A Health Trade License or NOC from the Municipal Health Department, ensuring hygiene and public health standards.
  • Financial Solvency Proof: Some authorities may require proof of financial stability.
• B. Renewal of Swimming Pool License (General Principles)
  • Updated Health Trade License/NOC from Local Health Department: This is a critical ongoing compliance requirement.
  • Prescribed Renewal Application Form/Affidavit: Specific forms provided by the licensing authority.
  • Recent Inspection Reports: This could include reports from relevant sports bodies (e.g., NSQF Aligned Certified Trainers, report for facilities with training programs), electrical inspections, and fire safety inspections.
  • Latest Water Quality Test Reports: Demonstrating ongoing adherence to water quality standards.

2. Facility Requirements (Based on BIS Standards)

• A. Design and Construction
  • Pool Structure and Materials:
    • Constructed with non-toxic, rigid, watertight, smooth, impervious, and light-colored materials.
    • Shallow areas must have a slip-resistant finish.
    • No sand or earth as interior finish.
    • Pool walls should be vertical for at least 1.5 m below water level, or 1 m below water level with an angle to the floor below that.
  • Dimensions and Depth:
    • Depth markings must be clearly visible on the pool wall and deck, indicating depths in metric system, and at the shallow and deep ends, transition points, and maximum depth.
    • Depth markers should be at least 10 cm high and in a contrasting color.
    • "No Diving" markers are required in shallow areas.
    • Slopes: In shallow areas, the slope should generally not exceed 30 cm vertical in 3.6 m horizontal.
    • Transition Points: Marked with a 10 cm wide contrasting stripe on the pool floor and a buoyed safety rope with colored buoys at least 30 cm on the shallow side of the transition point.
    • Diving Areas: Specific dimensions and clear unobstructed distances are required above and around diving boards/platforms, especially for those over 3 meters in height. Handrails must be provided at all steps and ladders leading to diving boards.
    • Beginner's Area: Should be visually distinct from other areas, and not adjoin the deep end.
  • Walkways and Deck Areas:
    • Pools must be completely surrounded by a deck at least 1.2 m in width.
    • Decks should be slip-resistant and properly drained.
    • Regular rinsing and disinfection of decks.
  • Circulation and Filtration Systems:
    • High-quality filters are essential to prevent water stagnation and bacterial growth.
    • The filtration plant must be operated for the entire duration of pool use and typically 2 hours before and after each session.
    • Proper plumbing and electrical systems with appropriate safety measures (e.g., earthing).
  • Lighting and Ventilation:
    • Adequate lighting for both indoor and outdoor pools, ensuring visibility of the pool bottom, especially in the deepest section.
    • Good ventilation for indoor pools to prevent condensation and improve air quality.
  • Accessibility:
    • Provisions for easy entry and exit, including steps, ladders with handrails, and ramps where necessary.
    • Consideration for persons with disabilities and the elderly.
• B. Water Quality (Based on IS 3328:1993)
  • Clarity:
    • Water must be clear, odorless, and colorless.
    • A 150 mm black disc placed on the bottom of the deepest point must be clearly visible from the side walks up to 9 meters away.
  • Chemical Parameters:
    • pH Level: Typically between 7.2 and 7.8 (with 7.4 being ideal). Regular testing is crucial.
    • Chlorine Levels: Usually maintained at 2.0 PPM (within 1.0-3.0 PPM for free residual chlorine). Tested frequently (e.g., 45 minutes before sessions) at multiple points and recorded in a logbook.
    • Total Alkalinity: Generally 120-150 ppm (as CaCO3).
    • Calcium Hardness: 200-250 ppm for concrete pools, 175-225 ppm for vinyl pools.
  • Bacteriological Parameters:
    • Standard plate count not more than 100 per milliliter.
    • Not more than 10 percent of 10-ml samples over a month should show coliform organisms. Fecal coliform should be 0.
• C. Hygiene and Housekeeping
  • Pre-swim Showering: Mandatory for all swimmers to minimize contamination (e.g., sweat, lotions, dirt). Outdoor showers are recommended if indoor ones are limited.
  • Changing Rooms and Washrooms:
    • Adequate size with proper sanitization.
    • Cleaned at least twice a day.
    • Separate facilities for male and female members, if feasible.
  • Cleanliness of Pool Surfaces: Pool surfaces must be scrubbed daily to prevent slime and dirt buildup.
  • Waste Management: Proper disposal of trash; no littering in or around the pool area.

3. Operational Guidelines

• A. Supervision and Staff Competence
  • Lifeguards: (for every 25 metres minimum one lifeguard required)
    • Public and society pools must employ certified and trained lifeguards.
    • Trained in CPR, AED and first aid.
    • NSQF Level 4 (Lifeguard Pool) Certificate is mandatory.
    • Number of lifeguards should be adequate for the size and usage of the pool.
  • Swimming Instructors/Coaches: (Minimum 1 is mandatory)
    • Competent and certified instructors.
    • Knowledge of swimming techniques, water safety, and emergency procedures.
    • NSQF Level 4 (Swimming Instructor) Certificate is mandatory.
    • Trained in CPR, AED and first aid.
    • Must monitor activities to ensure safe conduct and prevent unintentional mistakes.
    • For classes, the coach-to-student ratio should be appropriate for safety and effective learning.
  • Pool Manager/Operations Staff: (Minimum 1 is mandatory)
    • Professionally qualified to oversee daily operations, maintenance, and adherence to all regulations.
    • NSQF Level 3 (Pool Maintenance worker) Certificate is mandatory.
    • Trained in CPR, AED and first aid.
    • Trained in chemical handling and pool maintenance.
    • Responsible for maintaining records, schedules, and ensuring compliance.
• B. Safety Measures
  • Emergency Equipment:
    • Lifebuoys (ring buoys with throw rope), life jackets, rescue tubes, and artificial resuscitator/oxygen cylinder readily available and in working condition at designated places.
    • Fully equipped first aid kit displayed and mounted within the pool premises.
    • AED (Automated External Defibrillator) availability is highly recommended, and staff should be trained in its use.
    • Emergency contact list (police, hospital, fire service) displayed prominently.
  • Warning Signs and Markings:
    • Clear display of pool depths, "No Diving" zones, and emergency contact numbers.
    • Rules of conduct (e.g., "no running," "no rough play") clearly displayed.
  • Fencing and Barriers:
    • Pools should be enclosed with fences at least 4 feet (1.2 meters) high to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children.
  • Emergency Action Plan (EAP):
    • A documented EAP for all types of emergencies (drowning, medical emergencies, fire, chemical spills).
    • Clearly displayed at prominent places.
    • Staff must be thoroughly trained in EAP procedures and evacuation responsibilities.
  • Prohibition of Dangerous Activities: No running, pushing, roughhousing, or diving in shallow areas.