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Commission Issues Second Invitation To Develop Swimming Pool Slide Standard

Release Date: October 24, 1974



The Commission published its first invitation in the Federal Register on June 28 and received two offers from the National Swimming Pool Institute, a trade association representing the swimming pool industry.

After discussions with NSPI, the Commission rejected the offers without predjudice on September 13 because the Commission believed they were inadequately responsive to the regulations governing standards development. The Commission also raised questions about heavy reliance on existing engineering data, consumer participation and Commission funding for administrative expenses.

The Commission estimates that between July 1, 1972 and June 30, 1973, 42,000 persons required hospital emergency room treatment for injuries associated with swimming pools, and some of the most serious injuries involved slides.

The Commission initiated action on swimming pool d slides in response to a petition filed on May 30, 1973, by the National Swimming Pool Institute and the Aqua Slide 'N' Dive Corporation. The Commission also is considering a variety of approaches to reduce injuries associated with swimming pools in general, their equipment and environment.

In addition to summarizing the risks of injury and voluntary standards already in existence for slides, the second invitation comments on the existing engineering data which includes studies by the University of Utah and Nova University and notes that additional engineering work may be necessary to successfully eliminate risks of injury.

The second invitation also confirms the importance of consumer involvement in standards development procedures and emphasizes that a financial contribution to costs will be the exception rather than the rule.

Offers must be submitted by November 25 to the Office of the Secretary. Late offers will not be considered.

Release Number
74-071

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