Swimming Pools & Spas

Notice: We are not ready to apply for Phase 2 at this time. We are especially concerned about the increase in cases, the percent of our tests that are positive, the number of cases we cannot link to other cases, and a trend in increased hospitalizations. We are watching the data closely and talking with Multnomah and Clackamas counties about their data to determine how and when to apply for Phase 2.

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Link to Governor Brown’s Main Page:
https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/index.aspx

 

Link to Washington County's Reopening Page: https://www.co.washington.or.us/HHS/CommunicableDiseases/COVID-19/reopening.cfm

 

Washington County currently remains under Phase 1, however, the Governor’s office has updated the guidance for pools/spa operations as of September 4, 2020.  Please follow the link provided below to access the most up to date information on pool and spa operations:  https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2351C.pdf

 

Washington County's Environmental Health program licenses and inspects public swimming pools and spas to minimize the risk of illness and other health related problems, and to reduce safety hazards resulting in accidents from an improperly maintained pool.

Year-round pools are inspected twice a year. Seasonal outdoor pools are inspected once a year. Routine inspections provide education, identify problems and site violations of state rules, and provide written notice of necessary corrections. We provide plan reviews and construction inspections for approval of new or alterations of public pools following Oregon Administrative Rules. Public swimming pool and spa inspections focus on safety, including pool supervision, pool enclosures, lifeguard requirements and lifesaving equipment and its use. Environmental health specialists also check chemical treatment and the proper operation and maintenance of filtration equipment.

Forms and Fees

Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act  

On December 20, 2008, important changes to laws regarding swimming pool drains were enacted. The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act mandates that all public pools provide main drain entrapment protection that meets federal guidelines for the main drains. The document provided is meant as guidance for public pool operators, service companies and others to use to make changes in compliance with the new law while coordinating with existing Oregon rules.

Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act Interpretation  - This interpretation of the Federal "Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act" is the state's initial guidance for complying with the federal legislation. All public pools are affected by this legislation.

US Consumer Product Safety Commission - Provides valuable information and resources for pool owners, operators and parents regarding the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act.