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Interpretation #8276

Original Request

  • Date: May 29, 2019
  • Requested By: Christopher Shirar
  • Requester E-Mail: cshirar@slsfire.com
  • Code Version: 2014
  • Code: BUILDING
  • Code Description:
  • Chapter: 6
  • Section: 454.1.4.2
  • Topic: Minimum lighting required at pool wet deck

  • Question: Is it the intent of Section 454.1.4.2, that swimming pools shall not require 3 footcandles of lighting at the pool wet deck surface (when the swimming pool is not used at night but the pool deck is used at night)?

Answer on 05/29/2019 at 7:32 AM

The Florida Building Code section appears to limit the use of the pool wet deck anytime day or night: FBC 454.1.2.3.5 #1 "No food or beverages in pool or on the wet deck." Since there are access requirements for the pool, it appears as if the wet deck is considered as part of the pool and subject to the same rules. So, if the hotel closes the pool at night, then the wet deck is closed too. So, you can't close the pool but leave the deck open. If the deck is open, then so is the pool - which requires lighting.

Commentary:

See the following section of the FBC - 454.1.4.2.1 Outdoor pool lighting. Lighting shall provide a minimum of 3 footcandles (30 lux) of illumination at the pool water surface and the pool wet deck surface. Underwater lighting shall be a minimum of 1/2 watt per square foot of pool water surface area. The answer appears to be clear per this section of the code. Additionally, commercial pools are required to comply with Health Department rules. The Operating and Maintenance permit (O&M) issued by the Health Department must include the abitity to occupy the area during other than daylight hours. While this is not a Building Code section, it is important to remember that often times other rules and regulations may apply that need to be complied with.