Swimming pools - areas of application for rubber floors

Safety flooring is a crucial safety feature for outdoor areas in swimming pools, water parks, and open-air pools. It helps prevent injuries caused by slipping, falls, and hard impacts while also providing comfort and design flexibility. These floors must meet specific requirements, including slip resistance, water resistance, durability, and an appealing appearance. Below is a detailed explanation of where and how safety flooring can be applied in such facilities and the key aspects to consider.

Applications of Safety Flooring in Outdoor Areas of Pools and Water Parks

1. Pool Surroundings

The areas around pools are particularly prone to slipping due to constant wet conditions. Safety flooring offers several advantages:

  • Slip Resistance: Reduces the risk of slipping, especially for barefoot guests.
  • Shock Absorption: Minimizes injuries from falls onto hard pool edges.
  • Water Drainage: Many safety flooring materials are porous, allowing water to drain and preventing puddles.
  • Comfort: Soft, comfortable surfaces are ideal for barefoot areas.

2. Children's Areas and Water Playgrounds

Dedicated areas for children with water attractions require safety flooring:

  • Water Play Equipment: Under spray features, slides, or small waterfalls, safety flooring is essential as children often run and may slip.
  • Shallow Pools and Splash Pads: Around these pools, safety flooring ensures additional security for running and playing children.
  • Playgrounds: Integrated playgrounds or outdoor play areas in water zones benefit from safety flooring that protects against falls.

3. Rest Areas

Safety flooring enhances both safety and comfort in rest zones:

  • Lounging Areas: Shock-absorbing surfaces around sun loungers reduce the risk of slipping and provide comfort for barefoot users.
  • Shaded Zones: Under sunshades or trees, safety flooring prevents trip and fall hazards.
  • Access Points: Transition areas between pools and rest zones benefit from slip-resistant flooring.

4. Play Terraces and Activity Areas

In leisure and water parks, play terraces or open activity areas are often heavily used:

  • Dry Play Areas: Safety flooring provides protection in zones with activities like hopping games, small climbing structures, or balance equipment.
  • Open Movement Spaces: Areas where guests run, dance, or jump benefit from shock-absorbing properties.

5. Pathways and Transitions

  • Slip-Resistant Pathways: Paths connecting different areas (e.g., from changing rooms to the pool) can be equipped with safety flooring for added security.
  • Stairs and Ramps: These high-risk transition points require surfaces that remain safe to walk on even when wet.

6. Slides and Jump Zones

  • Slide Runouts: Landing zones of water slides need shock-absorbing and slip-resistant materials due to high speeds.
  • Diving Boards: Safety flooring around diving towers or boards provides extra protection against accidents or slips.

7. Outdoor Fitness and Sports Zones

Many modern pools and water parks include outdoor fitness areas:

  • Functional Training Zones: Safety flooring ensures secure footing for exercises with kettlebells or medicine balls.
  • Calisthenics Stations: Flooring provides stability and protection during intense workout sessions.

Suitable Materials for Safety Flooring

1. Poured Surfaces (EPDM Flooring)

  • Features: Seamless, water-permeable, and slip-resistant; available in various colors and designs.
  • Applications: Ideal for pool surroundings, water playgrounds, and play terraces.

2. Rubber Granulate Flooring

  • Features: Shock-absorbing, slip-resistant, and durable; resistant to weather conditions.
  • Applications: Suitable for pathways, play areas, and fitness zones.

3. Plastic Mats

  • Features: Modular, water-draining, and slip-resistant.
  • Applications: Perfect for temporary or flexible layouts.

4. Artificial Turf with Safety Underlay

  • Features: Visually appealing, soft, and shock-absorbing.
  • Applications: Suitable for rest areas, lawns, or decorative play areas.

Standards and Regulations

The installation of safety flooring in pools and water parks must comply with applicable standards and regulations:

  • DIN EN 1176/1177: Requirements for shock-absorbing flooring in playgrounds and safety zones.
  • DIN EN 13451: Safety requirements for swimming pools and their equipment.
  • Slip Resistance Classes: Flooring in wet areas should meet at least Class R11 (or higher).

Maintenance and Care

Safety flooring in outdoor pool areas requires regular maintenance to maintain its functionality and appearance:

  • Cleaning: Regular rinsing with water and occasional use of mild cleaning agents to remove limescale or chlorine deposits.
  • Inspections: Checking for damage such as cracks, wear, or loose elements.
  • Repairs: Damaged flooring should be promptly repaired or replaced.

Summary

Safety flooring is an essential component for the functionality and safety of outdoor areas in swimming pools, water parks, and open-air pools. With their slip-resistant, shock-absorbing, and water-draining properties, these floors are an optimal solution for high-traffic areas—from pool surroundings and play terraces to fitness zones. Careful planning, professional installation, and regular maintenance ensure long-lasting and effective use.