Maximize Pool Deck Space

When your aquatic facility hosts a wide variety of programs, including a combination of swim clubs and meets with recreational swimming and aquatic exercise, it can be difficult to ensure the right equipment is in place at the right time—and safely stowed away when it's not needed. Manufacturers of aquatic equipment have come up with a wide range of solutions that can help you make the most of limited space.

Q: Our aquatic facility has limited deck space, but is actively used by swim clubs. What deck equipment options are available that can add functionality while saving space?

A: With heavy use by swim clubs, your facility deals constantly with the use of swim lane lines. These lane lines take up large areas of space and are always causing trouble for those who need to store or move the lines throughout the day and week.

Luckily, there is a new innovation in lane line storage that prevents tangles and clumping. This simple, easy-to-reel product uses a proprietary lead-screw technology that provides a traversing guide block that slides from side-to-side, keeping lane lines properly aligned while reeling. The unit is made of lightweight, rugged stainless steel with a 1-inch, easy-to-grip captains' wheel at each end to make reeling and transporting simple. Not only will the unit free up space on your deck, but it will also keep your facility looking clean and organized. What's more, it helps lane lines last longer, as it helps you avoid the damage that can be caused by poor storage.

Q: Swim clubs often use our pool for practices, meets and competition, but we also provide recreational swimming, and we're concerned about wear and tear for our starting platforms, not to mention safety. What should we consider?

A: You can find safety covers that will go over your starting platforms, keeping platforms and swimmers alike safe during non-competitive programming. Look for safety covers constructed of tough lightweight plastic to prevent unauthorized use. They are simple to install over your platforms, and they stack easily for storage, allowing you to quickly transform your facility for use by swim clubs or recreational swimmers.

Q: We know we need a pool lift to be in compliance with ADA accessibility requirements, but we're concerned that the lift will take up too much space. What should we do?

A: ADA lifts can often take up considerable space on the pool deck. To alleviate this problem, there is now a pool access lift that rotates 90 degrees left or right and provides easy access for swimmers while taking up less space on the pool deck. The unit anchors directly into the deck with an anchor socket, making it removable without tools and easy to retrofit into existing anchors.

Look for features that boost comfort, including armrests, a comfortable seat with an adjustable lap belt, and a foot rest. Controls should be easy to operate. Also, be sure you look for a lift that is designed to clear spa benches and gutters.