PUBLIC HEALTH
In the Swim Newsletter
October 12th, 2023 Fall Issue
Information for commercial pool operators and owners
Seasonal Permits Must Close by 10/31/2023
Tips for properly closing your pool for the season
When a recreational water facility is closing for the season, the owners are responsible for ensuring the pool does not create a nuisance or disease hazard. This can be done by: securing the pool behind locked barriers, covering the pool with an approved safety cover, or marking the pool with a sign and maintaining water quality standards.

If the closed pool is in the same barrier as a year-round pool or spa
  • Covered: The pool must be covered with a safety cover meeting ASTM standard F1346-91.
  • Uncovered: Post a sign stating the pool is closed. This sign should be located in a conspicuous location. Water quality standards and water clarity must be maintained. Log test results weekly. If the closed pool does not share a barrier with a year-round pool or spa

If your closed pool can be secured by locked barriers, this is adequate to prevent the public from accessing the closed pool. Keep in mind, however, that maintaining water quality and clarity standards is recommended to prevent conditions that may attract mosquitoes or other nuisances.
Properly installed pool cover
Improperly installed pool cover
  • cover is slack
  • straps are not anchored to deck
  • water is collecting in the center
Do you know how your chlorine affects pH?
What kind of sanitizer do you use? Check the "Active Ingredients" on your chemical container if you are unsure.
If your chlorine is running high, or you are doing a shock treatment, it's important to be aware of the affect it may have on other water quality parameters such as pH.

Sanitizer type / pH / affect on pH
Sodium hypochlorite / 9-14 / Raises
Calcium hypochlorite / 8.5-11 / Raises
Trichlor (UV stable) / 2.8-3.5 / Lowers
Dichlor (UV stable) / 6.5-6.8 / Neutral
Bromine / 4.8 / Lowers

Allowed pH range: 7.2-8.0
Recommended pH range: 7.4-7.6
Expand Your Knowledge Base
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Consider becoming a Certified Pool Operator (CPO)!

While not required, a Certified Pool Operator certificate provides additional knowledge, techniques, and skill for proper pool operation and maintenance. The course can be completed online or in person and has materials available in English and Spanish.

All Clark County Pool Inspectors maintain a CPO certification, which is renewed every 5 years.
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For more pool operator resources, previous newsletters, and other information about the services we provide, visit our website.
Clark County Public Health | clark.wa.gov/public-health
1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd, Building 17
Vancouver, WA 98661