Maximizing Safety and Efficiency in Hydrotherapy Pool Design

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Presenters: Dennis Berkshire; Michael Mancini

Tuesday, January 28, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
1 Hour | 1 PHTA CEU | 0.1 IACET CEU

Summary

Hydrotherapy, once regarded as a niche treatment method, has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, becoming a cornerstone of many modern rehabilitation and wellness practices and giving rise to a diverse range of pool types tailored to specific therapeutic needs. This seminar explores the intricate world of hydrotherapy pools, exploring applicable codes, common pool types, emerging trends, and best practices. From baseline code requirements to innovative design considerations, participants will gain insights into creating hydrotherapy spaces that prioritize safety, accessibility, and effectiveness. Through a comprehensive examination of various pool types and construction methods, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of hydrotherapy pool design and construction successfully.

Learning Objectives

Understand the baseline code requirements for hydrotherapy pools, including health code compliance, ADA accessibility, and CDC recommendations.
Identify emerging trends in hydrotherapy pool design, such as circuit-style linear plunge pools and varying temperatures in different tanks, to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Gain familiarity with common pool types and their unique features, from traditional models to innovative designs like treadmill pools, enabling informed decision-making during the design and construction process.
Explore coordination issues, best practices, and construction methods essential to ensure the seamless integration of hydrotherapy pool components, and optimize the safety, functionality, and longevity of the facility.

Presenter Bios

Dennis Berkshire has over 40 years of experience in the aquatics industry, with field experience in swimming pool design, construction, operation, and training. He has a strong background in water chemistry and has been involved in the design of automated filtration, chemical feed, and water chemistry control equipment. As an expert on swimming pool operation, he has worked with several states on swimming pool environmental health codes. Dennis was named as part of the “Power 25” by Aquatics International Magazine again in February 2023 for his work as a technical committee chairperson for the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). Dennis is a member of the National Sanitation Foundation Standards 50 board and is currently serving as chair of the Commercial Council for the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Dennis has authored dozens of technical articles for national trade magazines and is the chairperson of the PHTA/ICC Standard Writing Committee for the new commercial pool and spa operations and maintenance standards.

Michael Mancini has had a lifelong love for aquatics, from swimming, lifeguarding, and water parks to surfing and aquarium science. As a former NCAA Division I swimmer, swim lesson teacher, lifeguard, swim coach, program director, and lifesaving instructor, Michael is passionate about competitive swimming and drowning prevention. Michael is an experienced account and project manager with expertise in aquatic programming products, aquatic filtration technology, and water chemistry equipment.