Regulations and Health Codes
Who actually makes the rules
Aquatic facilities are regulated primarily at the state and local level: health department pool codes, permits to operate, plan review, inspection frequency and operator certification requirements. The CDC's Model Aquatic Health Code is a model, not law - it becomes enforceable only where a jurisdiction adopts it. Federal layers sit on top: the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act requires compliant anti-entrapment drain covers and, in some configurations, secondary systems; the ADA requires accessible entry, routes and amenities; OSHA covers employee safety, including hazard communication with SDS access, bloodborne pathogens, PPE and injury recordkeeping.
Traps
The commonest error is treating the model code as a statute or assuming one state's numeric limits apply nationally. Question writers also swap inspection and permitting responsibilities, or imply chemical labels and SDS sheets are optional. Learn to separate a code requirement (must), a manufacturer instruction (effectively must) and a guideline or best practice (should).
Records and enforcement
Keep permits, inspection reports, daily logs, training certificates, incident reports and SDS sheets available and retained for the period your code requires. When two rules conflict, the more stringent enforceable requirement governs.
Worked example
A pool with 2,000 sq ft of shallow water surface, where local code allows 20 sq ft of surface per bather, has a bather load of 100. Exceeding that capacity is a code violation no matter how many lifeguards are on duty.