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The International Code Council (ICC) and Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) are collaborating on a benchmark swimming pool and spa/hot tub code for release in 2012.

The International Code Council (ICC) and Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) are collaborating on the development of a new, comprehensive swimming pool and spa/hot tub code for release in 2012.

The groups are joining forces to improve current industry standards by establishing a uniform pool/spa-specific code. It will comprise current standards on pool and spa safety, energy efficiency and best practices and will be the only code addressing all types of pools and spas—both public and residential—as well as aquatic recreation facilities.

"The ICC develops codes, which focus on keeping people safe where they live, work and play," said Jay Peters, executive director, code council plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas group (PMG). "This new pool and spa code in particular will impact safety as soon as it is put into use because it will become part of codes that are already adopted in 50 states."

This benchmark code will draw on APSP's American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-approved standards for pools, spas/hot tubs and other recreational water facilities along with ICC's expertise in building safety, fire prevention and energy efficiency codes for residential and commercial construction. The code provisions will increase consistency in pool and spa construction, maintenance and operation across the country and internationally.

"Finally, builders, manufacturers and code officials will have a uniform reference wherever the ICC codes are in use," said Carvin DiGiovanni, senior director of technical and standards for APSP. "We are looking forward to getting started on the development of what promises to be the most comprehensive pool and spa code possible."

According to the APSP's director of communications, Kirstin Spires, the writing committee is currently being assembled and code development will follow established ICC procedures.