(1) Consideration must be given to the shape of the pool or spa from the standpoint of safety, the need to facilitate supervision of bathers using the pool or spa, and maintaining adequate recirculation of the pool or spa waters.

(2) The decks of all swimming pools shall have a minimum width of 6 feet of unobstructed deck area except that privately owned public pools may have a minimum width of 4 feet of unobstructed deck area, measured from the pool edge.

(3) The deck surface must meet the following requirements:

(a) The deck surface must be impervious and easily cleanable, and must entirely surround the swimming pool.

(b) Use of deck carpet is not permitted within 6 feet of the pool or spa.

(c) If deck carpet is used, it must be clean and be maintained in good repair.

(d) The department may allow a deviation from (3) (a) and (b) above after the applicant submits to the department:

(i) a written application that demonstrates to the department that the deviation does not have the potential to cause adverse public health effects, the use of deck carpeting is necessary for safety purposes due to the nature of the pool or spa, and no reasonable alternative to the use of deck carpeting exists; and

(ii) a written plan that describes measures ensuring the deck carpeting is thoroughly cleaned daily and appropriate methods of cleaning and sanitizing will be used.

(4) The decks of all spas shall be a minimum of 4 feet wide and shall extend around 50% of the unit.

(5) A fence or barrier shall be provided on the outside of the deck area of all outdoor swimming pools. All such barriers shall:

(a) be at least 60 inches in height,

(b) have no openings larger than 4 inches in width, except for doors and gates,

(c) be located beyond the minimum deck space requirements, but shall be located so that the area intended for swimmers can be isolated,

(d) be constructed so that the pool shall be visible through the barrier, and

(e) be constructed so that all openings in the barrier are large enough to permit entry and are equipped with self-closing gates or doors with positive latching closers and locking mechanism at a height of at least 4 feet 6 inches above the ground.

(6) The entire deck area shall have a slope of not less than 1/4 inch per foot directed away from the swimming pool or spa edge or sloped to a deck drain. The deck area shall have a non-slip finish.

(7) Foreign material such as grass or dirt shall not be allowed in areas adjacent to swimming pools or spas unless properly fenced off to prevent access on the part of the bathers. If access is allowed to such areas, facilities shall be provided for the proper cleaning of the bathers' feet before they again enter the bathing areas.

(8) Deck drains shall be provided on all indoor pools and spas and shall be so located that the deck drain will not service more than 400 square feet of the deck. Outdoor pools shall utilize either deck or perimeter drain systems.

(9) The deck area drains shall not be connected to the recirculation piping system.

(10) Every pool shall be provided with handholds.

(11) The use of undrained wood deck material or of clear glass around the swimming pool deck is prohibited.