Pool Lifts: ADA Compliant & Handicap Access For Swimming Pools & Spas

Why use a Pool Lift?

Pool lifts are used by individuals who have difficulty getting into and out of a pool. They are also used by disabled individuals from all walks of life. These individuals may be young or old. They include children, adults, senior citizens, or those who rely upon a wheelchair, walker, rollator or other assistive device.  Many persons who have weakened legs and are unsteady on their feet may also benefit from using a pool lift.

What are the different types of ADA-Compliant Pool Lifts?

There are basically three different categories of pool lifts: electronic/battery powered lifts, manual powered lifts, and water powered lifts.

Electronic powered pool lifts such as the Aqua Creek Ranger Pool Lift or the Global Lift Pathfinder Pool Lift use an electronic actuator which drives a lifting operation system producing a high degree of lifting capacity, reliability, and a pool side flexibility that allows it to be used in conjunction with almost any type of swimming pool. This type of lift is usually operated with an easy-to-use control by the person using the lift, or by an assistant. Many electronic powered pool lifts are ADA-compliant and are often utilized with commercial pools.

Water powered lifts such as the Spectrum Products Gallatin Water-Powered Pool Lift operate with a hydraulic concept of having water fill a sealed cylinder which creates pressure, causing the lift to rise. To lower the lift, the cylinder is emptied of water, releasing the pressure and lowering the lift. These lifts are connected to a water supply through either a feed pipe or hose. A valve controls the lift by either filling or draining the cylinder, resulting in either an up or down position with no intermediate stop. The weight lifting capacity is dependent on the local water supply and if the water pressure is too low, it might affect the lifting capacity. Due to the cylinder having to be against the pool wall, water powered lifts are generally permanent installations. Many commercial pools that feature roll out gutters, curbs, rim flow and other designs may not be suitable for water powered lifts. Due to being capable of being operated independently, water powered lifts meet ADA-compliant requirements when used with a compatible pool.

Manual pool lifts like the Hoyer Swimming Pool Lift or the Aqua Creek EZ Pool Lift use a hand crank or hydraulic cylinder to operate a turning gear. A manual lift is generally indicated for use when a sling is required to transfer a user, and is operated by the user’s assistant or an attendant. These lifts are usually mounted to the pool deck area as a permanent installation. Due to the fact that manual lifts require someone to assist the user, they cannot be used in any public facility as directed by the ADA-compliant pool accessibility law.  Manual lifts are most often used within a residential setting and are an inexpensive alternative to other styles of pool lifts.

Should I choose a Permanent or Portable Pool Lift?

Permanent pool lifts are permanently affixed to the deck or cement pad surrounding a pool.  Permanent lifts usually have a higher lifting capacity than portable pool lifts and will typically occupy less storage space than a portable lift. One drawback of these permanent lifts is that when they are left unattended at the pool, they could be used as a play structure for children and become damaged.

Portable pool lifts such as the Aqua Creek Patriot Portable Pool Lift or the Spectrum Products Portable Freedom Pool Lift require no anchoring or physical installation to the pool deck or cement because the lift stability is provided by a counter weight system. Due to the fact that they can be moved into place during use, they can be placed and used at just about any place along the pool deck while still meeting ADA guidelines. When not in use they can be moved into storage, decreasing the opportunity for damage. Portable pool lifts take up more storage space than permanent pool lifts, and the counter weight can weigh up to 1,000 pounds, so transporting them to pool side could be difficult under some circumstances. Additionally, if the maximum weight of the lift is exceeded, they could become unstable. While they can be placed anywhere around the pool, they must be positioned correctly to adhere to the ADA pool accessibility guidelines.

While some pool lifts, like the Global Lift Corp Superior Series Pool Lift, can be used with most spas, there are specific spa lifts.  Aqua Creek's Aqua Creek ADA Compliant Spa Lift works
similarly to a standard pool lift, yet it's created and designed specifically for use with spa and hot tub applications. 

Where can I learn more about ADA Pool Lift Accessibility Guidelines?

In 2010 the US Department of Justice published additional regulations and clarifications detailing specifications that public recreational facilities including public pools must adhere to in order to be in compliance with the  Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Specific ADA regulatory information regarding accessibility requirements for existing swimming pools located at hotels, recreational facilities, public country clubs, health clubs and spas can be found at this ADA.gov site 

Written by:  Hulet Smith, OT & Bill Stock