COMMUNITY SWIMMING POOLS

If you are a community with a swimming pool, please be aware that the various Municipalities and Health Departments are starting to check up on public swimming pool operation as a result of a number of drownings last year.

There is now a European Regulation EN15288 regarding swimming pools .   This is split:

 EN15288-1   -  Safety requirements for design
 EN15288-2   -  Safety requirements for operation

The Regulations are quite lengthy and detailed and copies can be obtained from me, if required, by email.  I can also email you the application form for the necessary licence but you will need to obtain the actual licence from the appropriate Municipality.

1  Each public pool [ie a pool to which more than your immediate family has access to] should have a licence once you have your title deeds - this is available from your nearest Municipality [Paphos, Peyia,Polis or Geroskipou] and an annual licence fee is payable.   First, however, you should approach your developer to see if they obtained a licence for you initially.  If you don't have your title deeds, then the licence is the responsibility of your developer.

2    Every complex where the developer is not the management company have to conform to EN15288-2 .   In subsection 6.2.2.4 , it clearly states that it is the responsibility of the owner and or management company
( complex management team )  to ensure all staff who work on the pool are qualified , insured, work within the country of operation regulations ( tax , vat etc )  and are registered to perform the tasks .  If the complex has its title deeds then you also need to apply for a pool licence and this requires further regulations including the status of a lifeguard ( not on site 24/7 ) but a company who fully comply with lifeguard recommendations etc.   

3  The complex management team needs to compile a Health & Safety assessment and written procedure manual.

The above are an indication of the areas covered by the Regulation and are not a complete list of requirements.  

At the end of last year, the Health Department closed down 6 complexes near Polis.   Following a drowning in Ayia Napa, the complex management and developer were arrested as the pool did not conform to the EU regulations.

To ensure a complex is fully protected, any management team/committee needs to read the regulations carefully and obtain either help from a solicitor  or approach one of the registered Pool companies for assistance and guidance - a fee will probably be charged.   The Pool People in Peyia will, I understand, provide such guidance for a one off fee of €150.