addendum to site inspection report aquatic facilities ... · arrangement and re-concreting the base...

Addendum to Site Inspection Report – Aquatic Facilities Audit Eurobodalla

Brown Consulting 2014

Council engaged Brown Smart Consulting to review each of our three public swimming pools

to determine actions required to sustain the pools. Brown Consulting produced the attached

Site Inspection Report July 2014.

Council’s engagement with Brown Smart Consulting is complete. Any question relating to

this report should therefore be directed in writing to [email protected] or by letter

to:

General Manager

Eurobodalla Shire Council

PO Box 99

Moruya NSW 2537

This report is provided for public information only upon receipt of a release on copyright

from Calibre (who now own Brown Smart Consulting).

Council has since undertaken works at each of the pools to address the higher priority

actions. Tables 1, 2 and 3 show the works undertaken at each pool (compared to the

recommendations in the Brown Consulting report).

The report by Brown Smart Consulting specifically excluded a ‘Structural and Civil Audit’ of

the pools.

Given the age of the report and its exclusions, the report should no longer be relied upon to

identify the condition of the existing pools nor any proposed future works.

Following additional information is provided on the existing Batemans Bay swimming pool.

1. Batemans Bay Swimming Pool - Existing

The existing 50m swimming pool was built more than 50 years ago. The pool is 164ft 1/4inch

long 44ft wide (49.99m x 13.41m) wide providing only six lanes for competition and lap

swimming.

The existing pool pipework and circulation/filtration system is below the requirements for

modern day pools particularly in relation to the turnover of water. The current turnover of

water occurs approximately every six hours. Current design standards for public outdoor

pools, as documented in NSW Health Public Swimming Pool and Spa Advisory Document,

recommends a higher turnover rate for the Batemans Bay Pool. An even higher turnover

rate would be required for a similar sized public indoor heated pool.

Currently the public health risks to users is effectively managed through a stringent water

testing regime to ensure satisfactory outcomes. As usage increases, the challenges of

ensuring satisfactory water quality in the pool will increase.

mailto:[email protected]

This aged pool structure has experienced significant operational issues in the past and since

2012, repairs and minor upgrades have been required to address urgent issues including

major leaks. This includes a closure of the pool to the public in 2012 due to water leakage of

over 50,000 litres per day.

This water loss occurred due to separation of the return ducts under the main pool

structure. This was repaired by replacing the concrete ducting arrangement with a piped

arrangement and re-concreting the base of the pool.

What was evident during this repair was that considerable material had washed away from

under the centre of the pool slab. This material was replaced (at least in part) by drilling the

central concrete ducting line slabs and injecting an expanding proprietary filler (Uretek)

under pressure.

A similar more widespread issue may exist under the remainder of the pool slab. However,

this would require destructive testing of the pool shell to confirm. Similar destructive testing

would be required to confirm the overall integrity of the existing reinforced concrete shell

as well.

Given this destructive testing requires drilling holes in the pool shell, it was determined not

to proceed with this testing, as the testing itself decreases the life of the pool shell. Even if

this testing was undertaken, pockets of material loss may be missed in the investigation.

This situation is currently managed through on-going monitoring of the loss of water and

visual assessments of the pool shell.

The movement around the pool concourse area is likely to be related to the same cause as

the materials are predominantly fine sands. Previous work in these areas has confirmed

some voids under the concourse. To confirm the extent of material loss around the

concourse would require removal of sections of the concrete concourse and associated

excavation.

The pool has also experienced issues with the primary water reticulation service. This

underground service was installed with the original pool and was constructed out of

galvanised pipe. This pipe has experienced a number of failures. The reticulation pipes

branch off from the eastern fence line and then run under the concourse and under the

amenities buildings and plant rooms. If failures in this pipe occur underneath the existing

buildings and structures, the location will increase the cost of repair and timeliness of our

response significantly.

i) Brown Smart Consulting Report 2014 – Batemans Bay

This report was undertaken in 2014 to provide an overview assessment of the pool and to

identify and prioritise works to assist in keeping the pool operational. This assessment

specifically excluded a ‘structural and civil audit’ of the existing Batemans Bay 50m

swimming pool.

It is worth noting that this report included identifying issues that would need to be

addressed in the longer term. These matters include improving accessibility into the pool

and upgrading the water circulation/filtration system. These are matters relating to the

original design and construction of the pool more than 50 years ago. These substantive

matters are currently being managed, although in the medium to long term should be

addressed if the pool is to be retained, if any significant works to the existing pool structure

are proposed, or if the existing pool were proposed to be covered (which is not

recommended).

The condition of the existing pipe system is currently an unknown as it is all buried. There

are minor leakage issues currently but the majority of the pipework is original, now more

than 50 years old and at increasing risk of resultant unplanned operational issues. Although

these risks are being managed through water leakage monitoring, the pipework and

associated systems should be replaced to improve confidence of service provision and meet

current water circulation standards.

These latter items require major works that will impact the pool shell at various connection

points. Although the report provided ball-park estimates (in 2014 dollars) to repair/replace

components, there are significant unknowns which are likely to require greater expenditure.

Additionally, this would still leave uncertainty regarding the support under the existing 50

year old pool shell, unless it was fully replaced (which itself would be a much more

substantial project).

The more immediate high and medium priority items have been addressed since the report

was completed through maintenance and renewal budgets with the actions taken

summarised in Table 1 attached.

ii) Conclusion - Batemans Bay Pool

Any proposal for a new indoor aquatic centre for Batemans Bay should involve the

construction of a new pool, associated pipework and filtration system built to modern

compliance and accessible standards.

The existing 50m swimming pool should not be retained in any new aquatic centre

development at the MacKay Park precinct due to:

- Significant limitations resulting from the location of the existing pool on a

redevelopment of the regional scale multi-use centre proposed for MacKay Park

- Limitations of a six lane pool to service the competitive and lap swimming

community for the regional growth centre of Batemans Bay and environs

- The aged pool structure, pipework and filtration system (now >50 years old)

- Known failures of the existing pool structure and pipework

- Known uncertainties associated with the foundations of the pool, pool concourse

area and pipework

- Inadequate capacity of the existing pipework and filtration system to meet current

water treatment standards and public health standards, particularly for a heated

indoor facility

- Lack of provision of an accessible pool structure (which would require demolition of

part of the existing pool structure to add)

- Limitations placed on any future centre design by the current position of the existing

50m pool and associated filtration plant and equipment, including both the

horizontal position and differing levels (note the level of the main pool edge is higher

than the floor level of the existing filtration plant room). These height differentials

also impact surveillance of the pool from the front entrance area which is also lower

than the pool deck. Any new design should address this issue.

Table 1 – Summary of Actions Taken at Batemans Bay Pool (refer Section 2.6 Brown Smart

Consulting Report page 11)

Item Status Comment Priority

1 Complete Chemical separation area High

2 Complete High

3 Complete No significant water loss identified at time of assessment High

4 Complete Hydrostatic valves installed High

5 Complete Joints Recaulked High

6 Complete Signage updated High

7 Part complete Water outlets improved however as the water comes

from the main pool, the turnover rates cannot comply

with current standards

High

8 Alternative

solution

See Item 10 High

9 Alternative

solution

See item 10 High

10 Complete Installation of dry chemical feeder system High

11 Not complete Advice from aquatic professionals deemed this

unnecessary unless significant water loss occurring.

Destructive testing may reduce the life of the pool shell

Medium

12 Complete Medium

13 Complete ESC workshop serviced air compressors Medium

14 Complete Medium

15 Complete Undertaken annually Medium

16 Complete Medium

17 Not complete Note the pool currently has a disability hoist for access

to the pool.

Long

18 Not complete This would be undertaken when item 19 is complete Long

19 Not complete This would require reconstruction of the pool shell Long

20 Not complete This would require removal of much of the pool

concourse and construction of new filters

Long

2. Moruya Swimming Pool

Council has also used the Brown Smart Consulting report to guide works on the Moruya

swimming pool. Table 2 below outlines the works completed arising out of the

recommendations outlined in Section 3.6 of the Brown Smart Consulting report 2014.

Table 2 – Summary of Actions Taken at Moruya Pool (refer Section 3.6 Brown Smart Consulting

Report page 21)


1 Complete Chemical separation area High



4 Complete Service of Gas Heater High

5 Not complete See Item 7 High

6 Not complete See Item 7 High

7 Complete Installation of dry chemical feeder system Alternative to

items 5 and 6

8 Complete Medium


10 Complete Medium

11 Not complete Note the pool currently has a disability hoist for

access to the pool

Long

12 Not complete This would be undertaken when item 13 is

complete

Long

13 Not complete This would require reconstruction of the pool

shell

Long



Long


unnecessary unless significant water loss

occurring. Destructive testing may reduce the

life of the pool shell.

Medium

3. Narooma Swimming Pool

Council has also used the Brown Smart Consulting report to guide works on the Narooma

swimming pool. Table 3 below outlines the works completed arising out of the

recommendations outlined in Section 4.6 of the Brown Smart Consulting report 2014.

Table 3 – Summary of Actions Taken at Narooma Pool (refer Section 4.6 Brown Smart Consulting

Report page 30)


1 Not complete Pool surveyed and no evidence of movement or water

loss

High

2 Complete No significant water loss identified at time of

assessment

High


unnecessary unless significant water loss occurring.

Destructive testing may reduce the life of the pool

shell.

High


5 Complete Joints Recaulked High


7 Alternative

solution

See Item 9 High

8 Alternative

solution

See item 9 High

9 Complete Installation of dry chemical feeder system Alternative

to items 7

and 8

10 Complete Medium

11 Complete Medium

12 Complete ESC workshop serviced air compressors Medium

13 Complete Medium


15 Complete Medium

16 Not complete Note the pool currently has a disability hoist for access

to the pool

Long


17 Not complete This would be undertaken when item 18 is complete Long

18 Not complete This would require reconstruction of the pool shell Long



Long

Site Inspection Report Aquatic Facilities Audit

Eurobodalla

July 2014

M130336-003-R-CL-mrl

Original

Aquatics Division Prepared for Eurobodalla Shire Council

This report should be read in conjunction with Eurobodalla Council's accompanying addendum.

Page | i M130336-003-R-CL-mrl | Site Inspection Report | Aquatic Facilities Audit | Eurobodalla Shire Council Commercial in Confidence

COMMERCIAL IN CONFIDENCE

All intellectual property rights, including copyright, in designs developed and documents created by Brown

Consulting (VIC) Pty Ltd remain the property of this company. Any use made of such design or document without

the prior written approval of Brown Consulting (VIC) Pty Ltd will constitute an infringement of the rights of the

company which reserves all legal rights and remedies in respect of any such infringement.

The information, including any intellectual property, contained in this proposal is confidential and proprietary to the

Company. It may only be used by the person to whom it is provided for the stated purpose for which it is provided

and must not be imparted to any third person without the prior written approval of the Company. The Company

reserves all legal rights and remedies in relation to any infringement of its rights in respect of its confidential

information.

©

Brown Consulting (VIC) Pty Ltd

Level 2

55 Southbank Boulevard

SOUTHBANK VIC 3006

Ph: (03) 9203 9000

2014

DOCUMENT CONTROL

M130336-003-R-CL-mrl

Issue Date Issue Details Author Checked Approved

A 08/07/2014 First Issue MARL MRL

B 22/01/2015 Minor Revisions MRL APS MRL

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Page | i

Table of Contents

1 Introduction................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Clarifications........................................................................................................................................ 1

1.2 Exclusions ............................................................................................................................................ 2

1.3 Presentation ........................................................................................................................................ 2

2 Batemans Bay Pool ........................................................................................................................................ 3

2.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 3

2.2 Pool Structures and finishes................................................................................................................ 3

2.2.1 50m Pool ................................................................................................................................. 3

2.2.2 Toddlers pool .......................................................................................................................... 4

2.2.3 Wading Pool ............................................................................................................................ 5

2.2.4 Movement between Pools and Concourse Slabs ................................................................... 5

2.3 Plant and Equipment ........................................................................................................................... 6

2.4 Generally ............................................................................................................................................. 9

2.5 Plant .................................................................................................................................................. 10

2.6 Recommended Works ....................................................................................................................... 11

3 Moruya Pool ................................................................................................................................................ 13

3.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................................... 13

3.2 Pool Structures and finishes.............................................................................................................. 13

3.2.1 25m Pool ............................................................................................................................... 13

3.2.2 Learn To Swim Pool ............................................................................................................... 14

3.2.3 Toddlers pool ........................................................................................................................ 15

3.2.4 Movement between Pools and Concourses ......................................................................... 15

3.3 Plant and Equipment ......................................................................................................................... 16

3.4 Generally ........................................................................................................................................... 19

3.5 Plant .................................................................................................................................................. 20


4 Narooma Pool.............................................................................................................................................. 22

4.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................................... 22

4.2 Pool Structures and finishes.............................................................................................................. 22

4.2.1 50m Pool ............................................................................................................................... 22

4.2.2 Toddler’s pool ....................................................................................................................... 24

4.2.3 Movement between Pools and Concourses ......................................................................... 24

4.3 Plant and Equipment ......................................................................................................................... 25

4.4 Generally ........................................................................................................................................... 28

4.5 Plant .................................................................................................................................................. 29


Page | ii M130336-003-R-CL-mrl | Site Inspection Report | Aquatic Facilities Audit | Eurobodalla Shire Council Commercial in Confidence

Page | ii

APPENDICES

Appendix A Leak Detection

Appendix B Batemans Bay Images

Appendix C Moruya Pool Images

Appendix D Narooma Pool Images

Page | 1 M130336-003-R-CL-mrl | Site Inspection Report | Aquatic Facilities Audit | Eurobodalla Shire Council Page | 1

1 Introduction

Brown Consulting (Vic) Pty Ltd has been engaged by Eurobodalla Shire Council to undertake a visual inspection and

audit of the councils Aquatic Facilities. The facilities that were inspected are as follows:

Facility Construction Year Detail

Batemans Bay Pool 1966

Batemans Bay Pool is a 50m outdoor pool with solar heating

and electric heat pump. The site consists of the main pool,

toddlers pool and small pool. The filter circulation system

runs through gravity sand filters.

Moruya Pool 1965

Moruya is a 25m outdoor pool with wading pool and toddlers

pool and operates off solar and gas boiler. The circulation

system runs through 2 sand filled pressure filters.

Narooma Pool 1964

Narooma is a 50m indoor pool with solar heating, electric

heat pumps and electric air handling system. The main pool

has a separate outdoor toddlers pool, which is no longer

used. The circulation system runs through gravity sand

filters.

As part of that inspection, we would also undertake an audit of all pool related plant and equipment at the facility

which will result in tabular report listing the following for each item of pool plant:

» Location / Facility.

» Item of equipment.

» Age if known.

» Condition.

» Replacement cost.

» Anticipated remaining life.

During our inspection we also undertook a walk-through audit of the pools from which we have prepared a brief

report, discussing each pool’s condition and listing items we consider to be in need of attention. These items have

been prioritised into immediate, short term and longer term.

During our site inspection where asbestos is identified or suspected, the location will be noted. The identification of

asbestos will be limited to a visual inspection only and should not be considered an asbestos audit, however, it may

be used to help establish if an asbestos audit is required.

1.1 Clarifications

Our fee proposal allowed for a walk-through audit of each pool covering the general scope listed below:

» A visual inspection to consider stability of the structure – has it settled anywhere? Are there any signs of cracking

and if there are, why has it cracked – what has moved? Is the pool level?

» Condition of pool finishes.

» Condition of surrounding concourses –signs of slab displacement or settling, trip hazards etc.


» Depth and warning signage and compliance with relevant codes.

» Suitability of access and review of compliance of railings and public access generally.

» Review of apparent pipework layout for reticulation between the pool and plant room (we note that the main

restraint on improving water quality and turnover in an older pool is inadequate pipework).

» Inspection of the plant room to identify the filtration system layout and capacity.

» Comparison of present capacity to current regulations and identification of restraints to increasing capacity, if

required.

» Documentation of major plant items with serial numbers where available plus age and condition assessment and

potential date and cost for replacement.

» Review of Occupational Health and Safety issues in relation to the plant and equipment.

» Review of written and anecdotal information relating to the history of the pool with a primary focus on the

possibility of leakage from the pool and any known remedial work.

» Preparation of a detailed report detail the pool situation, pool details and an overview of the pools condition

based on this inspection. This report will include photographs as well as an Excel spread sheet detailing the plant

and equipment.

This approach is traditionally directed at reviewing a pool with the view to offering firstly, a list of items requiring

immediate and medium term attention and then a summary of options available for refurbishment or replacement

together with potential costs.

1.2 Exclusions

The following items have been specifically excluded from our scope of work:

» Site Feature survey.

» Geotechnical and geochemical investigation costs.

» Authority fees and headworks charges.

» Works external to the site.

» Underground service detection.

» Structural and Civil audit, however, if we notice anything on site we will advise where further investigation would

be required.

» Asbestos Audit / Testing.

1.3 Presentation

We were advised that each of the pools is to have a standalone report and will be collated within a master report,

which will also include supplementary information such as this introductions and information included in the

appendices. For this reason the reader of the master report may feel there is a duplication of material for each of

the pools. However this has been done to allow each of the individual pool reports to be read on their own.


2 Batemans Bay Pool

2.1 Overview

The Batemans Bay Aquatic Centre is located in Vesper Street, Batemans Bay, NSW, 2536 pool was constructed in

1966 and consisted of a 50m outdoor pool and a toddlers pool. At some stage since then, a fibreglass pool was also

added to the site. At the time of the inspection the site comprised of the following:

» A 50m x 15m concrete pool varying in depth from 1m in the shallow end to 2m in the deep end. The pool has

been divided in the 6 lanes of approximately 2.5m wide. This pool has a recessed access stair in the North East

corner. The pool has been finished in tiles around the top of the pool walls and the entry stairs and the main

body of the pool has been painted.

» A 15m x 10m toddlers pool ranging in depth from a zero depth seat at either end, stepping down to 0.2m deep

and falling to 0.4m deep in the centre. The pool has been finished in tiles around the top of the pool walls and

the zero depth step at each end and the main body of the pool has been painted.

» A fibreglass 8m x 3m x 0.9m deep (estimated) wading pool. This pool appears to have been an "Endless Pool"

having a current from one end to the other allowing the user to swim against the current.

2.2 Pool Structures and finishes

2.2.1 50m Pool

As noted earlier, the 50m pool was of reinforced concrete construction

with a combination of painted and tiled interior finish.

Water depths vary from 1.0m in the shallow end down to 2.0m in the

deep.

Whilst on site the pool was reported to be leaking water when full and

there were a number of known locations that water was being lost from

the pool, however, reports from Council are that there are no current leaks

within this pool following repairs undertaken in 2012. We recommend the

pool to be re-assessed when full of water. The filtered water return duct in

the bottom of the pool has been refurbished in recent times, due to loss of

the water. This is a common location for leaks to occur due to the folds it

creates in the base of the pool. The joints in the pool also appeared to be

in poor condition and requiring attention.

The base of the pool appeared to be fair condition with no areas of

concrete spall or rust staining being noted.

Concrete spall and rust staining is used as an indicator of the condition of the concrete pool shell. No indicators

being observed suggests the pool is in relatively good condition, however, should confirmation be required,

destructive testing can be undertaken. The results from such testing can be used to determine the expected useable

life within the pool shell.

The pool paint was showing signs of wear and tear and will need to be painted in the next year or so.

At some stage the tiles to the top of the pool had been removed and a cement render applied between the edge

tiles which is now cracking for the full extent around the pool. Destructive testing involves taking samples from the


concrete shell for analysis and the cracks indicate that the render

has delaminated from the pool shell and/or cracking is occurring

in the upper portion of the walls. The edge tiles are also showing

wear and tear with chips, cracks and spalling occurring. The pool

joints also require re-caulking.

Replacing the render to the top of the wall will also provide an

opportunity to undertake repairs to the pool wall also it is not

possible to determine the extent of repairs that are likely to be

required to the top of the pool walls. It is difficult to determine by

a visual inspection alone, however, the extent of required repairs

can be estimated by undertaken destructive testing and defect

mapping prior to the repair works being undertaken. During the

destructive testing, areas of the pool walls can be opened up to establish the cause and severity of the cracking that

are visible within the render, and all the cracks can be mapped on a set of plans. By combining this with a proposed

method of repair will produce a set of documents that can be put out to tender providing true costs for the repairs.

Access to the 50m pool is via a reinforced concrete access stair in the shallow end to which a ramp has been

provided from the concourse, to the top of the pool wall. This access ramp and the grab rails are not compliant with

current standards but were likely to be compliant when constructed. Works will be required to bring the ramp and

grab rail into compliance with AS1428 and AS1657. As a minimum, the ramps should be painted and well sign

posted as a hazard, alternatively the ramp can be extended to provide a maximum 1 in 14 grade.

Movement was evident between the pool and the concourse, in some locations creating a step in the pavement.

These steps are to be repaired by either demolition and replacement of the offending concourse slabs, or in the

short term, the offending joints can be ground flush and monitored for future movement.

Niche steps were provided around the pool, and these were in fair to good

condition. When the time comes, these can be tidied up when the pool

shell is retiled and painted.

The 50m pool has a hydraulic access hoist/seat that is operated by water

pressure. The user can control the hoist’s up and down motion from

within the seat, however, such units should always be used under

supervision/aid of an attendant on site. The unit appears to be in the fair

condition, but should be serviced. During the service, the base bolts are to

be checked for compliance with the original specifications. This type of

hoist does not comply with the current regulations for providing equal

access, however, it can be used under supervision iuntil such a time that

and alternative means of access can be provided.

2.2.2 Toddlers pool


The toddlers pool was in relatively good condition, there were

some cracked and chipped tiles the perimeter tiling. The screed

to the top of the pool between the perimeter edge tiles was in

good condition and so too was the painted finish, and should

last another couple of seasons before requiring a repaint.

A zero depth step had been provided at each end of the pool

with a wet deck grate positioned against the wall. The tiling

was in good condition and there was no obvious signs of

damage to the pool. The concourse slabs were noted to be

moving around relative to the pool. Refer below for further

comment with respect to movement of concourse relative to

the pool shells.

2.2.3 Wading Pool

At some stage a fibre glass pool shell was installed on site to

be used as a wading pool. The pool had been plumbed into

the combined filtration system that was used for the 50m and

the toddlers pool and the pool had been provided with a

concrete hob to the full perimeter.

The water outlets are located too close and are too large to

comply with current requirements of AS1926.3 Swimming

Pool Safety – Water Reticulation Systems. Pool signage to the

perimeter of the pool is faded and lacking in detail, thus not

complying with current requirements and should be updated.

2.2.4 Movement between Pools and Concourse Slabs

During the inspection it was noted that there is movement occurring between the concourse slabs and the pool

shells. In some areas, previous repairs had been undertaken where the concourse slab had failed/moved to an

extent that it could not be retained. At the time of the inspection the pool was empty preventing the water’s

surface from being used as a level, and as such it was not possible to determine if the movement is occurring within

the concourse slabs, or the pool shell, or both.

Movement in the concourse slabs can occur due to a number of reasons; the most common is settlement of the

supporting material under the slab. For these older pools the concourse slab typically butts up to the pools and

hence any settlement will allow the concourse slab to drop relative to the pool. Loss of support under the concourse

slab can also occur due to loss of supporting material. This can occur when a pipe leaks, which can wash material

out from under the concourse. Another cause for the concourse slab movement is for clay founding materials under

the concourse being effected by water. When clays become wet they will swell and are able to exert great force

pushing the concourse slab up, so too when the clay dries out, it will shrink and the concourse will level will drop.

This type of movement is often seen as seasonal, as the ground water conditions change between summer and

winter the pavement tends to move up and down.

Similar to the concourse slab, the pool shell can also move due to loss of supporting material from leaking pipes.

The pool shell can also lift due to the increase in moisture within the supporting clays, however, due to the depth of

the pool within the clay, changes in the moisture are less likely to be effected by seasonal changes, but will still be


affected by an increase in ground water due to leaking pipes. Pool founding materials may be affected by water and

can result in the pool being out of level and effect the flow of water into the gutters. The change in level can be

gradual and can be difficult to reverse.

More severe problems can occurwhen pools are empty due to build-up of ground water. Typically the base slab of a

50m pool shell is 150mm thick. When the ground water around a pool shell is 360mm deep, the base of the pool

shell is effectively weightless and any increase in the water will result in the base of the pool lifting. When this

occurs to larger pools, the base slab domes up and fractures, before the pool walls begin to lift. Once the base of

the pool is fractured it will require substantial repairs. Smaller pools, being more rigid can pop out of the ground

much like a boat. Typically this severs all the plumbing to the pool and requires substantial repairs prior to be able

to function as a pool again.

Prior to emptying a pool, it is imperative to ensure the pool will not become buoyant. This is best achieved by

dewatering the site. This is typically done by running a cut off drain around the pool to the pit that can either be

discharged to a drain or be pumped out. The drainage and pumps must be able to function during inclement

weather, as it is times of storm when the most rain falls and the power to the site is likely to be lost due to

blackouts.

Many pool designers rely on Hydrostatic Relief Valves (HRV) in the base of pools to relieve the build-up of ground

water under pools. Care must be taken when relying on HRV’s, particularly on larger pools, as they have a limited

rate at which they can let the water into the pool. Often the rate of water flowing in around the pool will exceed the

capacity of the HRV's installed and the pool will float before the HRV can relieve sufficient hydrostatic pressure.

HRV’s are also a high service item and as they are located in the bottom of the pool, often means they are not

serviced. Lack of service often results in the HRV leaking pool water and/or jamming shut so when they are required

to function.

Whilst on site this pool was reported to be losing a lot of water, being approx. 40,000lt/day, Council have since

advised this was several years ago and the pool has since been repaired.. Attached to this report is a general

method of leak detection that can be used for these pools. For the inexperienced, finding leaks in the pools can be a

difficult proposition, however, by splitting the pool into its individual sections, the sections that are leaking can be

more easily identified, narrowing the search for the actual fault.

2.3 Plant and Equipment

The three pools are serviced by a shared two cell gravity sand

filter, very typical of the era in which this facility was constructed.

The pools are heated by a combination of the solar and

atmospheric heat pumps.

At the time of inspection, the pools were empty and hence we are

not able to make comment on the water quality, however, as the

pool is an operating pool we have to assume that it is good to fair.

On entering the plant room, the original pool plant layout has been

maintained other than additional equipment such as the heated

water circuits have been added.

We are not aware of the condition of the solar collector, but as the system is functioning, we assume it is at least

serviceable. The collector is distributed over a number of roofed areas throughout the facility.


The heat pumps are located adjacent to the pool plant room

and appear to be in good condition.

There are a number of Occupational Health and Safety issues

with the manner in which dry chemicals are received on site

and then moved to their storage positions. The chemicals are

being stored within a bunded area, on pallets to keep them

off the floor. The chemicals can be brought into the plant

space using a hand trolley or similar, however, they need to

be lifted into the bunded area, some of the chemicals need to

be lifted over others, in an awkward manner, which poses a

risk to lifting injuries.

The height of the chemical storage bund only needs to be

such that it will contain a spill and prevent it from mixing

with the other chemicals. In this case the bund wall can be

lowered, and cells created within bund by providing

partitions within the existing bunded area, along the walls

avoiding the need to awkwardly lift chemicals. The front of

the bund wall can be ramped to allow a hand trolley to be

rolled over it, further reducing the need to manually lift

chemicals.

The bulk storage arrangements for the Sodium

Hypochlorite are not up to current regulations , any major

chlorine spillage during delivery would flood into the street

and eventually into the stormwater system, as there is no

chlorine delivery bund.

No PPE storage location was located during the site visit.

The safety shower has been located outside the bulk hypo

store and the pool plant rooms. Presumably it was located

here to be central to both areas, unfortunately if it had to

be used in a hurry it would be difficult to find. Further to

this, the safety shower is now being used to store rubbish

bins. We suggest a non-corrosive cupboard to house PPE

should be installed in the plant room, and the bins be

removed for the safety shower.

Adjacent to the hypo storage bund were a number of CO² bottles standing unrestrained in the middle of the room.

Compressed gas bottles must be restrained at all times. If they fall over and the valve is knocked off they can be a

deadly missile, and bounce around in the plant room, damaging equipment and injuring people.


In terms of pool filtration performance, the installed system is well below

the performance of equipment that would be installed today. The NSW

Health Public Swimming Pool and Spa Pool Advisory Document

recommends outdoor 50m pools are turned over within a maximum of 4

hours, and for a gravity type filter and maximum filtration rate of

10mᶟ/m²/hr through the sand filter.

From what we can see, the circulation pump in use on site has a 9.2kW 3

phase motor driving a Regent 125-214R cast iron pump. A review of pump

curves for that size pump suggests it would, in good condition, pump

approximately 60 litres/second against a head of 10m.

This can be calculated as representing a flow of 200 cubic metres of water

through the filtration system each hour. We can assume that the pump is

not in peak condition and therefore the flow may well be less.

The combined contents of the two pools is estimated to be close to 1200

cubic metres of water and on that basis, the pool contents are being

turned over every 6 hours which exceeds the recommended maximum. The flow rate through the filter bed is

200mᶟ/hr divided by the area of the filters being 2 filters of 3.2mx3.2m which gives a flow rate of 10mᶟ/m²/hr and

hence the filters are running at their maximum capacity.

NSW Health Public Swimming Pool and Spa Pool Advisory Document also recommends that high risk pools used by

faecally incontinent people, such as the toddlers pool and the wading pool, be on a separate filtration system. The

filtration system for these pools would also have a much higher filtration rate. The advisory document recognises

that many Councils will not have the funds to provide separate filtration systems for these pools and provides an

alternative to manage the pools, ensuring that procedures are in place and personnel are available to deal with an

incident the pool, limiting the extent of contamination.

Apart from a tidy-up and some improvements, such as a new air pump and valves, we wouldn’t recommend

replacing the filters at this time. The money can be well spent elsewhere. If and when the time arrives where the

bathing load has increased significantly, we would suggest that a new system could be installed. We can provide the

necessary advice at that time.

The chemistry control system has, obviously, been upgraded since the

original installation.

Under the current arrangements, we have bulk delivered Sodium

Hypochlorite stored on site in a bunded container (mentioned earlier in

relation to compliance) and this is delivered to the pool system by a

Prominent variable rate dosing pump, fixed to the wall adjacent to the

Hypo tank. As hypo tends to increase pH, the pH is being adjusted by CO²

gas which is controlled and injected into the filtered water by a Strantrol

CO² feed system.

The chemistry is monitored and controlled by a Strantrol chemistry

controller using a Strantrol sample chamber and electrodes. We have no

issues with this equipment, apart from recommending having it serviced

and perhaps the installation of replacement electrodes.

The recirculation pipework could not be fully understood in the time

available during our visit, but it will be designed to accommodate the


present flows through the pool. The point being that any attempt to upgrade the filtration system will be wasted

unless the entire reticulation system is replaced with larger diameter pipework or supplemented with additional

pipes.

The cost of this work will be significant and this is another reason for our reluctance to suggest a filtration upgrade

at this time.

2.4 Generally

This facility presents well and is a valuable asset to the community.

Items for immediate attention are relatively few, but should be attended to as soon as funding allows. Refer to the

spread sheet dealing with this matter.

In the longer term, a filtration and reticulation pipework upgrade will be necessary but this will be triggered by

increased bathing loads at the centre and/or results from the leak detection investigation.

Should you wish to undertake destructive testing and fault mapping of the pool shells, we can arrange a suitable

specification to suit your pools and obtain pricing from a number of contractors.


2.5 Plant

ITEM DESCRIPTION STATISTIC CONDITION

1 Prominent dosing pump Good condition

2 Sodium Hypochlorite

storage tank Storage bund does not comply, no delivery bund

3 CO² for PH buffering CO² bottle not restrained

4 US Filter Strantrol System

3 PH and Cl controller Good Condition

5 US Filter Strantrol CO²

feed system Good Condition

6 Main circulation Pump

Regent 125-214R-

Y4XA impeller 205

dia

Good condition


motor

WEG 415 3 phase

9.2kW 1460 RPM Fair condition

8 2 No. Gravity Sand Filters

with air scour 3.2mx 3.2m Fair condition, some cracking in the walls

9 Air compressor for air

scour on the filters Unknown Poor condition

10 3 heat pumps Unknown Good Condition

11 Solar Heating Approx Unknown

12 Heater circulation pump, Gunfos Poor condition

13 Sodium Thiosulphate To lower chlorine levels in swimming pools and

spas following super chlorination.

14 Hydrochloric Acid PH Balance

15 Chlorine Dioxide PH Balance


2.6 Recommended Works

ITEM TASK PRIORITY REASON BUDGET

1 Overhaul the chemical storage bund

HIGH

To separate chemicals and

provide better means for

delivering chemical to the

bunded area

$10,000

2

Complete replacement of the edge tile

and render to the top of the 50 pool

walls and tidy up the tiles around the

scum gutter

HIGH

Top of pool is cracking, tiles are

chipped unsightly and hazardous

$30,000

3

Leak detection of the pool shells, soiled

and filtered water lines, Cost of repair

would be additional depending on what

was found

HIGH

The pool has been reported to be

losing a lot of water 40kl/day,

this is considerable cost in water,

chemical and heat

$20,000

4

Provision of a means to dewater

around the pool shells and or provide a

hydrostatic relief/inspection openings

to allow ground water into the pool

HIGH Used to prevent the pool from

floating when the pool is empty, $30,000

5 Scrape out and re-caulk the pool

expansion joints HIGH

To reduce water loss from the

pool $20,000

6

Review and upgrade depth and warning

signage to comply with RLSSA

guidelines.

HIGH

Safety issue – Compliance

required.

$4,000

7

Access and upgrade the pool soiled

water outlets and filtered water return

jets to the wading pool to comply with

current requirements

HIGH

This pool in its current state is a

high risk and should made

compliant before being used

$10,000

8 Alter Hypo tank to meet current

regulations – bunding, pipe connections

HIGH

OH&S issue – workplace safety

$6,000

9 Construct suitable Hypo delivery bund.

HIGH

Public safety, ecological issue if

Chlorine spill occurs.

$20,000

10

ALTERNATIVE TO ITEMS 8 & 9 ABOVE –

Install Prominent ProCal (or equivalent)

dry Chlorine feeder in place of Hypo

system.

ALT

Less OH&S issues, no bulk liquid

deliveries.

$25,000

11 Undertake destructive testing of the

pool shells to establish useable life MEDIUM $20,000

12 Repainting the 50m pool shell MEDIUM Recommend after other repair

works and or investigations $50,000

13 Replace/service air compressor used for

backwashing filters

MEDIUM

Required for continued function

$2,500

14 Sundry repairs to pool tiling to repair

and or replace damaged and loose tiles.

MEDIUM

Safety plus preventive

maintenance.

$2,000


15

Service the chemistry control system

and replace sample electrodes if

necessary

MEDIUM

Improved water quality

management.

$2,500

16 Locate PPE in a non-corrosive cupboard

within the plant room

MEDIUM

PPE presently in unsatisfactory

position.

$600

17 Provision of access ramp into the 50m

pool LONG Equal access requirement $150,000

18

New filtration system

LONG

Increase T/O rates, enhanced

operation.

$400,000

19

New reticulation pipework to pools

LONG

Necessary to allow item 18 above

to operate satisfactorily.

$250,000

20 Provide separate filtration system to

toddlers and wading pool LONG

Reduce risk of faecal

contamination of all the pools $50,000


3 Moruya Pool

3.1 Overview

The Moruya War Memorial Swimming Pool, is located in Shore Street, Moruya NSW. The pool was constructed in

1965 and comprises of the following:

» An outdoor 25m x 20m concrete pool varying in depth from 1m in the shallow end to 1.8m in the deep end. The

pool has been divided in the 8 lanes of approximately 2.5m wide. This pool has a recessed access stair in the

North West corner and the pool has been finished with tiles around the top of the pool walls and the leading

edges of the entry stairs. The main body of the pool has been painted and the pool has been fitted with wet deck

grates down each side of the pool. The ends of the pools has raised pediments with permanent starting blocks at

the deep end.

» A 10m x 6m Learn to swim pool approximately 1m deep. The pool has been finished with tiles and grates around

the top of the pool walls forming a full perimeter wet deck. The main body of the pool has been painted. A ramp

entry has been provided to the Learn to swim pool with a stainless steel handrail down one side.

» A 12m x5m toddlers pools with a beach entry at one narrow end, grading at 1 in 4 to a depth of 0.4m. Three

sides of the pool are the original up-stand wall. The beach entry that has been added at a later date and has also

been provided with a wet deck grate. The body of the pool and the beach entry has been painted with a non-slip

paint finish.


3.2.1 25m Pool

As noted earlier, the 25m pool was of reinforced concrete

construction with a combination of painted and tiled interior

finish.

Water depths vary from 1.0m in the shallow end down to

1.8m in the deep.

The pool was in good condition and appeared to have been

painted in recent times. The original scum gutter had been

removed from the pool and wet deck grates installed to each

of the pools.

The base of the pool appeared to be fair condition with no

areas of concrete spall or rust staining being noted.

Concrete spall and rust staining is used as an indicator of the condition of the concrete pool shell. No indicators

being observed suggests the pool is in relatively good condition, however, should confirmation be required

destructive testing can be undertaken. Destructive testing involves taking samples from the concrete shell for

analysis and the results from such testing can be used to determine the expected useable life within the pool shell.

At some stage in recent times the top of the pool walls have been removed and wet deck grates installed. This will

remove soiled surface water from the pools more effectively than the original gutter system and provide the pools

with a more modern appearance. The work appears to have been done to a high standard with little indication of


distress in the pool shell. Some of the grating towards the deep end has rust

stains, however, the cause of this was not determined whilst on site. Rust staining

indicates active corrosion and its cause should be identified and rectified. The

stains can be chemically removed or the grates replaced

The 25m pool has a reinforced concrete access stair in the shallow end to which a

ramp has been provided from the concourse to the top of the pool wall. This

access ramp and grab rails are not compliant with AS1428 and AS1657 and will

require attention. As a minimum the ramp should be painted and well sign posted

as a hazard, alternatively the ramp and grab rails extended to provide a maximum

1 in 14 grade.

Movement is evident between the pool and the concourse in some locations

creating steps in the pavement which create trip hazards. These steps are to be

repaired by either demolition and replacement of the offending concourse slabs, or, for an immediate short term fix

the offending joints can be ground flush and monitored for future movement.

Three sets of niche steps had been provided around the pool to aid access.

The niche steps are in good condition.

The 25m pool had also been fitted with a hydraulic access hoist/seat that

operated off water pressure. The user can control the hoists up and down

motion from within the seat and has been fitted with a swivel function

doing away with the need for another person to rotate the chair from the

concourse to the pool. The unit appears to be in good condition.

3.2.2 Learn To Swim Pool

The learn to swim pool was of concrete construction

similar to the 25m pool. The tops of the wall had been

converted to a wet deck system. On one side of the pool

an access ramp had been provided with a stainless steel

handrail. The ramp and the handrail do not comply with

current access standards due to their grade and the

spacing of the rails. It is difficult to have a compliant ramp

access into a small pool such as this as to do so, the ramp

becomes larger than the pool it services. The current ramp

will need to be managed by staff on duty, who can aid


those who need help entering the pool. The concourse slab

had also been formed up to create a ramp to the access point.

This ramp also exceeds maximum grades and presents a trip

hazard. This ramp should be removed and extended to be a

maximum grade of 1 in 14.

In the short term, the ramp can be painted with yellow safety

strips or similar to ensure it is clearly seen as a steep

ramp/potential tripping hazard.

At the time of the inspection the pool was filled with dirty

water and as such the base of the pool was not visible and

comment cannot be made on its condition.

The pool, had been fitted with a shade structure over the top to provide some shelter. The structure is generally in

good condition. There was some surface rust at some of the connections. This can be cleaned up with a wire brush

and painted with cold galvanising paint, if a freshen up is required.

3.2.3 Toddlers pool

The toddlers pool is a 12m x5m toddlers pools with a beach entry at one end, grading at 1 in 4 to a depth of 0.4m. Three sides of the pool were the original up-stand walls. The beach entry had been added at a later dated and had also been provided with a wet deck grate. The body of the pool and the beach entry had been painted with a grip type paint which appeared to be in good condition. The three remaining sides of the pool still had the original tiles from when the pool was constructed. The grade into the pool at the beach entry exceeds the maximum requirement of 1 in 14. Signage should be provide to for-warn users of the steep entry.

3.2.4 Movement between Pools and Concourses

During the inspection it was noted that there had been some

movement occurring between the pool concourses and the pools,

considering the age of the pool the extent of the movement was

relatively low. Most of the cracking appeared to be due to thermal

movement of the concourse slabs and poor joint

layout/construction. This was evident by cracks emanating from

corners of structure, such as the corners of the pools and post

foundations. This type of cracking is of a lesser concern in

comparison with cracking that results in vertical differential

displacements, which would indicate movement in the founding

materials. Where this cracking has resulted in vertical

displacements, the crack can be ground smooth, or should the

cracking be more severe, the slab panel can be demolished and replaced.

In these older pools the concourse slabs typically butt up to the pools and hence any settlement will allow the

concourse slab to drop relative to the pool. Loss of support under the concourse slab can also occur due to loss of


supporting material. This can occur when a leaking pipe washes material out from under the concourse. Another

cause for the concourse slab to move is for the clay founding materials under the concourse being effected by water.

When clay becomes wet it will swell and are able to exert great force, which pushes the concourse slab up. Also

when the clay dries out it will shrink causing the concourse level to drop. This type of movement is often seen as

seasonal, as the ground water conditions change between summer and winter, the pavement levels around the pool

will also change.

Similar to the concourse, the pool shell can also move due to loss of supporting material due to leaking pipes. Also

pool shell can lift due to increases in moisture within the supporting clays. Due to the depth of the pools foundation

within the clay, changes in the moisture are less likely to be effected by seasonal changes, however, an increase in

ground water due to leaking pipes can cause the founding clays to swell and lift the pool. More severe movement

can occur to the pool when it is empty due to build-up of ground water resulting in the pool shell floating. Typically

the base slab of a 50m pool shell is 150mm thick. When the ground water around a pool shell is 360mm deep, the

base of the pool shell is effectively weightless, and any increase in the water will result if the base of the pool lifting.

With large pools, when they float, typically the base slab will dome up and fracture, before the pool walls begin to

lift. Once the base of the pool has fractured it will need substantial repairs. Smaller pools which are more rigid can

pop out of the ground when they float. Typically this severs all the plumbing to the pool and requires substantial

repairs prior to being able to function as a pool again.

Prior to emptying a pool, it is imperative to ensure the pool will not become buoyant. This is best done by

dewatering the site and is typically done by running a cut off drain around the pool to a pit that can either be

discharged to a drain or can be pumped out. The drainage and pumps must be able to function during inclement

weather, as during a storm is when the most rain is likely to fall and a blackout is likely to occur.


water under pools. Care must be taken when relying on HRV’s, particularly on larger pools, as HRV’s have a limited

rate at which they can let the water into the pool. Often the rate of water flowing in around the pool will exceed the

capacity of the HRV's installed and the pool will float before the HRV can relive sufficient hydrostatic pressure.

HRV’s are also high service items and due to them being located in the bottom of the pool, often means they are not

serviced. Lack of service often results in the HRV leaking pool water and/or jamming shut so when they are required

to function they do not.


The three pools are all serviced by the one circulation and

filtration system. These pools would have originally been

serviced by gravity sand filters but these have since been

replaced by the current high pressure sand filters. The pools

are heated by a combination of direct fired gas heating and

back up solar heating.

At the time of inspection the pools were not in operation and

hence we are not able to make comment on the water

quality, however, as the pool is an operating pool, we have to

assume that it is relatively good, perhaps dropping below

expectations in the times of high loading.

The whole plant room had been refitted at the time the

pressure sand filters were installed.


We are not aware of the condition of the solar collector but

as the system is functioning, we assume it is at least

serviceable. The collector is distributed over a number of

roofed areas throughout the facility.

The gas heater is in need of a service. Items were being

stored in the gas heater enclosure. These should be removed

as this space should be maintained as clear to reduce the risk

of fire.

There are a number of Occupational Health and Safety issues

with the manner in which dry chemicals are received on site and

then moved to their storage positions. The chemicals are being

stored within a bunded area, on pallets to keep them off the

floor. The chemicals can be brought into the plant space using a

hand trolley or similar, however, they then need to be lifted into

the bunded area, some of the chemicals need to be lifted over

others in an awkward manner which poses a risk to lifting

injuries.

The height of the bund only needs to be such that it will contain

a spill and prevent mixing with the other chemicals. In this case

the bund wall can be lowered, and cells created, within the

existing bund. This can be done by providing partitions within the bunded area, along the walls, avoiding the need

to awkwardly lift chemicals. The front bund wall can be ramped to allow a hand trolley to be rolled over it, further

reducing the need to manually handle chemicals.

The bulk storage for the Sodium Hypochlorite was a plastic

container within an up turned concrete pipe which formed a

bund. To prevent the bund from filling up with water a roof was

added. This set up appears that it will contain a spill, however, it

does make servicing of the tanks and connections difficult, and if

tested against the requirements AS3780: Storage and Handling

of Corrosive Chemicals would be found not to be compliant.

Should a major chlorine spill occur during delivery it would flood

into the street and eventually into the stormwater system as

there is no chlorine delivery bund.

No PPE storage location was observed during the site visit. We

suggest a non-corrosive cupboard to house PPE should be

installed.

The safety shower was located fairly central within the plant

room.


A number of CO² bottles were standing against the plant room wall and were provided with a chain for restraint.

There was a nitrogen bottle within the plant room that is the responsibility of the Manly Hydraulic Lab. This bottle

was provided with an elastic strap. This should be replaced with a chain fixed to the wall. Compressed gas bottles

must be restrained at all times. If they fall over and the valve is knocked off they can be a deadly missile, causing

injury to people and damage to plant.

In terms of plant performance, the installed system is well

below the performance of equipment that would be installed

today. The NSW Health Public Swimming Pool and Spa Pool

Advisory Document recommends outdoor 50m pools are

turned over within a maximum of 4 hours and for a pressure

sand type filter and maximum filtration rate of between 11

and 30mᶟ/m²/hr through the sand filter. We generally aim

for a maximum flow of 20 mᶟ/m²/hr to avoid break through.

Break through is where channel forms in the sand bed

allowing the water to pass around the filter medium instead

of through it.

From what we can see, the circulation pumps in use on site are 2 no 5.5kW 3 phase motor driving a cast iron pump.

Modern pumps with this size motor will typically deliver 20lt/s. Allowing for wear and tear, we have based the

figures below on 16 lt/s.

This can be calculated as representing a flow of 115 cubic metres of water through the filtration system each hour.

The combined contents of the two pools is estimated to be close to 750 cubic metres of water and on that basis, the

pool contents are being turned over every 6.5 hours which exceeds the recommended maximum. However, this

figure is an estimate and will vary greatly depending on the performance of the pumps installed. The flow rate

through the filter bed is 115mᶟ/hr divided by the area of the filters being 2 filters of 2.6sqm which gives a flow rate

of 22mᶟ/m²/hr. This is a good flow rate through a pressure sand filter to avoid break through.


faecally incontinent people, such as the toddlers pool and the wading pool, be on a separate filtration system. The

filtration system for these pools would also have a much higher filtration rate. The advisory document recognises

that many Councils will not have the funds to provide separate filtration systems for these pools and provide an

alternative to manage the pools, ensuring that procedures are in place and personnel are available to deal with an

incident the pool to reduce contamination.

The actual flows to each of the pools are not known without having access the pool filtration design. It is quite likely

that during the refurbishment works when the wet decks were installed that the relative pipe works to and from

each of the pools may have been upgraded. The operator may be able to give an indication of the performance of

the each of the pools.

Apart from a tidy-up and some improvements, we wouldn’t recommend replacing the filters and or pumps at this

time. The money can be well spent elsewhere. If and when the time arrives where the bathing load has increased

significantly, we would suggest that the system could be further upgraded. We can provide the necessary advice at

that time.


The chemistry control system has, obviously, been upgraded since the

original installation.

Under the current arrangements, we have bulk delivered Sodium

Hypochlorite stored on site in a bunded container (mentioned earlier in

relation to compliance) and this is delivered to the pool system by a

Prominent variable rate dosing pump fixed to the wall adjacent to the

chemical controls. As hypo tends to increase pH, the pH is being adjusted

by CO² gas which is controlled and injected into the filtered water by a

Strantrol CO² feed system.

The chemistry was being monitored and controlled by a Strantrol

chemistry controller using a Strantrol sample chamber and electrodes.

We have no issues with this equipment, apart from recommending

having it serviced and perhaps the installation of replacement electrodes.

The recirculation pipework could not be fully understood in the time

available during our visit, but it will be designed to accommodate the

present flows through the pool. The point being that any attempt to

upgrade the filtration will be wasted unless the entire pipework reticulation system is replaced with larger diameter

pipework or supplemented with additional pipes.


at this time.

3.4 Generally

This facility presents well and is being well maintained.

Items for immediate attention are relatively few but should be attended to as soon as funding allows. Refer to the

spread sheet dealing with this matter.

In the longer term, a filtration and reticulation pipework upgrade will be necessary but this will be triggered by

increased bathing loads at the centre and if the centre is having issues maintaining water quality.

Should you wish to undertake destructive testing and defect mapping for these pools, we can arrange a suitable

specification for these pools and obtain pricing from a number of contractors.


3.5 Plant




storage tank

Storage bund has been created with an upturned

concrete pipe, A roof has been provided to prevent

the bund filling up with rain water

No delivery bund on site

3 CO² CO² for PH buffering CO² bottles were restrained

4 PH and Cl controller Seimens Strantrol

System 3

Good Condition

5 CO² feed system Seimens Strantrol

System 3i

Good Condition


Motor

Pump unknown size

Motor 415 3 phase

5.5kW 1460 RPM

Fair Condition


motor

Pump unknown size

WEG 415 3 phase

5.5kW 1460 RPM

Fair condition

8 2No. Acron Horizontal

pressure Filters

1200 diam x 2400

long

Approx 2.6sqm each

Fair condition when viewed from the out side

9 Gas Heater Unknown Poor Condition

10 Heater circulation pump Davey Power Ace

C150

240v 1 phase 0.75kW

Good Condition

11 Solar Heating Sunbather Good Condition

12 Solar circulation pump, Austral

240v 1 phase 1.14kW

Good Condition

13 Chemical storage bund Poor condition, poses OHS issues

14 Sodium Thiosulphate Powder To lower chlorine levels in swimming pools and

spas following super chlorination.

15 Hydrochloric Acid PH Balance




1 Overhaul the chemical storage bund HIGH

To separate chemicals and

provide better means for

delivering chemical to the

bunded area

$10,000

2







3



guidelines.

HIGH


required.

$4,000

4 Service of Gas Heater HIGH Continued operation $5,000



HIGH OH&S issue – workplace safety

$6,000

6

Construct suitable Hypo delivery bund.

HIGH



$20,000

7




system.

ALT


deliveries.

$25,000



MEDIUM


maintenance.

$2,000

9



necessary

MEDIUM


management.

$2,500



MEDIUM


position.

$600


pool LONG Universal access requirement $150,000

12

New filtration system

LONG


operation.

$400,000

13

New reticulation pipework to pools

LONG



$250,000





15 Undertake destructive testing of the

pool shells to establish useable life MEDIUM

To be undertaken if the current

pool required major works $20,000


4 Narooma Pool

4.1 Overview

The Narooma Swimming pool was located on Bluewater Drive, Narooma. The pools were originally constructed in

1964 and consisted of a 50m outdoor pool and a Toddlers pool. In 1991 the 50m outdoor pool was enclosed within

a pool hall and the pool provided with a face lift.

At the time of the inspection the site comprised of the following:

» A 50m x 15m concrete pool varying in depth from 1m in the shallow end to 2m in the deep end. The pool has

been divided in the 6 lanes of approximately 2.5m wide, the main point of access is a recessed access stair in the

Northern corner. The pool has been finished in tiles around the top of the pool walls and the entry stairs. The

main body of the pool has been painted.

» A 15m x 10m toddlers pool ranging in depth from a zero depth seat at either end, stepping down to 0.2m deep

and falling to 0.4m deep in the centre. The pool has been finished in tiles around the top of the pool walls and

the zero depth step at each end. The main body of the pool has been painted.


4.2.1 50m Pool

As noted earlier, the 50m pool was of reinforced concrete

construction with a combination of painted and tiled interior

finishes.

Water depths vary from 1.0m in the shallow end down to

2.0m in the deep.

The base of the pool appeared to be fair condition and the

pool was reported to have, last been painted in 2012.

Walking around the pool, a number of areas were identified

as showing distress. Cracks were appearing in the top wall of

the pool and the in the portion of wall above the concourse

slab.

Concrete cracks, spall and rust staining is used as an

indicator of the condition of the concrete pool shell. Much

of the cracking did not have rust staining suggesting that the

cracks may be limited to the renders and surface treatments,

a better understanding of the condition of the pool shell can

be gained by undertaking destructive testing and defect

mapping where samples are then taken from the pool shell

for analysis, the results from such testing can be used to

determine the expected useable life within the pool shell.


At some stage the tiles to the top of the pool have been

removed and a cement render applied between the edge

tiles. The cement render is now cracking all around the pool.

The cracks indicate that the render has delaminated from the

pool shell and/or cracking is occurring in the upper portion of

the walls. The edge tiles are also showing wear and tear with

chips, cracks and spalling occurring. Replacement of the

render to the top of the pool will provide an opportunity to

undertake repairs to the top of the pool wall. It is difficult to

establish the extent of the required repairs from a visual

inspection. However, the extent of required repairs can be

estimated by undertaking destructive testing and fault

mapping prior to the works being undertaken. During the

destructive testing areas of the top of the pool can be

opened up to establish the cause and severity of the cracking.

Walking around the pool, it was noted a number of pool joints were

displaced vertically. Typically the expansion joints in these older pools are

constructed using a key joint, which allows horizontal movement in two

directions and limited vertical movement. However, as the slabs move

apart, the taper in the key allows the slabs to move vertically relative to

each other. Key joints are known to fail, and have since lost their

popularity due to this issue, and advances in the other means of creating

expansion joints.

The joints in this pool appear to have either moved considerably or possibly failed. Providing the joint has not

opened too much and water loss can be controlled, the pool will still perform satisfactorily. If destructive testing is

to be undertaken on this pool, we recommend further investigations be undertaken on the expansion joints to

confirm what is happening. In the short term, the joints are to be closely inspected and where required the caulking

is to be removed and replaced to limit water loss, alternatively a bundage can be applied over the joint.

As noted above the 50m pool has a reinforced concrete

access stair in the shallow end with a ramp that has been

provided from the concourse to the top of the pool wall at

this location. This access ramp and the grab rails are not

compliant with AS1428 and AS1657 and will require

attention. As a minimum the ramps should be painted and

well sign posted as a hazard, alternatively the ramp and grab

rails can be extended to provide a minimum 1 in 14 grade.

A number of niche steps have been provided around the pool

there are in fair to good condition. These can be tidied up

when the pool shell is retiled and painted.


The 50m pool has also been fitted with a hydraulic access hoist/seat that

operated off water pressure. The user can control the hoists/up and down

motion from within the seat. The unit appears to be in the fair condition,

however, should be serviced. During the service the base bolts are to be

checked for compliance with the original specifications as these are exposed

to high stresses. This type of hoist does not comply with the current

regulations in terms of providing equal access, however, under supervision it

can be used until such a time that and alternative means of access can be

provided.

4.2.2 Toddler’s pool

The toddler’s pool was in relatively good condition and appears to have

been repainted at the same time as the 50m pool, however, there were

some cracked and chipped tiles to the perimeter tiling. The tiles to the

top of the pool between the edge tiles were in relatively good condition,

however, could do with a good clean. They appeared to have had

cementitious material adhered to them and may need a good acid wash

and scrub.

A zero depth step had been provided at each end of the pool with a wet

deck grate positioned against the wall. The tiling was in good condition

and there was no obvious signs of damage to the pool. There was some

cracking noted in the concourse slab around the toddler’s pool. Refer below for further comments with respect to

movement of concourse slabs and pool shells.

4.2.3 Movement between Pools and Concourses

During the inspection it was noted that there is some movement occurring in the pool concourses. Generally all the

concourse slabs were cracked in the middle, and the cracks were opened in the top face. This suggests that the slabs

are being pushed up from the underside due the expanding subgrade material. The expanding material may be

“natural” or “imported fill” brought in when the pool was enclosed and the concourse slabs replaced. This can be

confirmed by a geotechnical investigation or by referring to the construction records for the building.

The concourse slabs around pool of this age typically butt up to the pool and hence any settlement or heave will

allow the concourse slab to move relative to the pool. During our inspection there was no indication that the

concourse slabs were moving relative to the pool where they butted into the side of the wall. When the pool was

enclosed the new concourse slab may have been dowelled into the side of the pool, or a rebate provided, which

would prevent vertical movement at this location. It is quite likely that water is coming from the pool through the

expansion joints, and sitting around the pool excavation and effecting the surrounding soils.

If there is no active drainage system to remove water from the pool excavation , this can cause severe movement in

the pool shell when the pools is emptied. Typically the base slab of a 50m pool shell is 150mm thick. When the

ground water around a pool shell is 360mm deep the base of the pool shell is effectively weightless, and any

increase in the water will result if the base of the pool lifting. With large pools, when they float, typically the base


slab will dome up and fracture, before the pool walls begin to lift. Once the base of the pool is fractured it will

require substantial repairs. Smaller pools which are more rigid can pop out of the ground like a boat when they

float. Typically this severs all the plumbing to the pool and requires substantial repairs prior to be able to function as

a pool again.

Prior to emptying a pool, it is imperative to ensure the pool will not become buoyant. This is best done by

dewatering the site. This is typically done by running a cut off drain around the pool to a pit that can either be

discharged to a drain or can be pumped out. The drainage and pumps must be able to function during inclement

weather, as it is in times of storm when the most rain falls and the power is likely to be lost due to blackout.


water under pools. Care must be taken when relying on HRV’s, particularly on larger pools, as they typically have a

limited rate at which they can let the water into the pool and often the rate of water flowing in around the pool will

exceed the capacity of the HRV's installed, and the pool will float before the HRV can relive sufficient hydrostatic

pressure.

HRV’s are also a high service item and due to them being located in the bottom of the pool, often means they are

not serviced satisfactorily. Lack of service often results in the HRV leaking pool water and/or jamming shut so when

they are required to function they do not.

Attached to this report is a general method of leak detection that can be used for pools. For the inexperienced,

finding leaks in the pools can be a difficult proposition, however, by splitting the pool into its individual sections, the

sections that are leaking can be identified, narrowing the search for the actual fault.


The 50m pool and toddlers pool, when operational are serviced

by a shared two cell gravity sand filter, this is typical of the era

in which this facility was constructed. The pool is heated by

Solar heating located on the roof of the pool hall and heat

pumps which are utilised for heating the pool during the colder

months. The older gas boiler remains on site as a backup only

and will require servicing prior to use. The pool hall air

handling units (HVAC) are located on the roof of the club room

and are similar in age to the pool water heating units.

The water quality of the 50m pool looked good. At the time of

the inspection, it was not very heavily loaded and based on the

pool equipment being used it is expected that the water quality

would most likely fall during high usage.

On entering the plant room, the original pool plant layout had been maintained other than some additional

equipment such as the heated water circuits having been added.


The heat pumps are located adjacent to the pool plant room, in an

open plant space with plenty of room around the heat pumps.

The bulk storage arrangements for the Sodium Hypochlorite are not up

to current regulations and should there be a major chlorine spill during

delivery it would flood into the street and eventually into the

stormwater system as there is no chlorine delivery bund.

No PPE was located during the site visit. We suggest a non-

corrosive cupboard to house PPE should be installed in the

plant room,

External to the building was a large number of the CO² bottles

stored against the wall. These were being held in place by a nylon

tie down strap. Gas bottles should be restrained to the wall by

chains and each chain should only restrain a few bottles, to reduce

the risk of the whole lot being knocked over when the bottles are

being swapped over. Compressed gas bottles must be restrained

at all times. If they fall over and the valve is knocked off they can

be a deadly missile, causing damage to property and injury to

personnel.

In terms of plant performance, the installed system is well below

the performance of new equipment that would be installed

today. The NSW Health Public Swimming Pool and Spa Pool

Advisory Document recommends indoor 50m pools are turned

over within a maximum of 3 hours and for a gravity type filter

and maximum filtration rate of 10mᶟ/m²/hr through the sand

filter.

From what we can see, the circulation pump in use on this site

has a 7.5kW 3 phase motor driving an unknown pump. Modern

pumps with this size motor will typically deliver 22.5lt/s.

Allowing for wear and tear the below figures are based on

20lt/s.

The current system is estimated to be providing a flow of 76 cubic metres of water through the filtration system

each hour. We can assume that the pump is not in peak condition and therefore the flow may well be less.

Excluding the toddlers pool, as it is not being used, the contents of the 50m pool is estimated to be close to 1125

cubic metres of water and on that basis, the pool contents are being turned over every 15 hours which greatly


exceeds the recommended maximum. The flow rate through the filter bed is 76mᶟ/hr divided by the area of the

filters being 2 filters of 3.2mx3.2m which gives a flow rate of 3.7mᶟ/m²/hr and hence the filters are running well

below their maximum flow rate of 10mᶟ/m²/hr.


faecally incontinent people, such as the toddler’s pool, be on a separate filtration system. The filtration system for

these pools would also have a much higher filtration rate. The advisory document recognises that many Councils

will not have the funds to provide separate filtration systems for these pools and provide an alternative to manage

the situations, ensuring that procedures are in place and the personnel are available to deal with an incident should

this pool be used again.

This facility has had considerable work done to extend it use, however, the filtration system had not been upgraded

at the time. Unfortunately quite often it is not possible to just install bigger pumps. The current filters have capacity

take higher flows, however, the pool pipe work is most likely original and will not be able to take a large increase in

the flow. If works are undertaken on site that require the removal of the concourse slabs, then the opportunity

presents for the filtered water and soiled water lines can be upgraded to support and increase in filtration capacity.

In the short term it may be possible to add an additional pump, however, the full benefit may not be realised due to

the size of the original pipe work. Alternatively the pool operators will need to limit the number of people as

increases in bather load make water quality more difficult to manage. Apart from a tidy-up and some

improvements, such as a new air pump and valves, we wouldn’t suggest replacing the filter at this time.

When the time comes that a final decision is to be made with respect to this pool, we can provide the necessary

advice for the filtration up grade and or pool replacement. We can also provide advice with respect to the building

structure. We can also provide a suitable specification and obtain costing for destructive testing and fault mapping

of the pool shells.

Under the current arrangements, we have bulk delivered

Sodium Hypochlorite stored on site in a bunded container

(mentioned earlier in relation to compliance) and this is

delivered to the pool system by a Prominent variable rate

dosing pump fixed to the wall in the plant room. As hypo

tends to increase pH, the pH is being adjusted by CO² gas

which is controlled and injected into the filtered water by a

Strantrol CO² feed system.

The chemistry is monitored and controlled by a Strantrol

chemistry controller using a Strantrol sample chamber and

electrodes. We have no issues with this equipment, apart

from recommending having it serviced and perhaps the

installation of replacement electrodes.

The recirculation pipework could not be fully understood in the time available during our visit, but it will be designed

to accommodate the present flows through the pool. The point being, as noted previously, that any attempt to

upgrade the filtration will be wasted unless the entire pipework reticulation system is replaced with larger diameter

pipework or supplemented with additional pipes.


at this time.


4.4 Generally

The facility initially presents well, however, following a detailed inspection we found that it will need some fairly

major work in the not too distant future.

Initially further investigation is recommended to establish what is actually happening to the pool and surrounding

structure. There is evidence of foundation and subgrade movement which is likely to be a result of changes in the

ground water conditions. Initially, a leak test of the pool and pipe work should be undertaken and the associated

leaks rectified to ensure the pool is not a source of ground water. The site stormwater, sewerage and water supply

pipework should also be reviewed to note these services out as being a cause for increased ground water. A

geotechnical engineer should be engaged to review the material under the concourse and around the pool and

building structure. This should provide sufficient information to establish what is a causing the movement.

Brown Consulting (Vic) Pty Ltd can help with preparing a suitable brief for the geotechnical engineer for this site,

including the pools and buildings.

To determine if the pool shell is to be retained, destructive testing and defect mapping is to be undertaken to

determine the effective life left in the pool shell. This investigation can also confirm what is happening at the

expansion joints. Combining this report with those mentioned above will allow a detailed report be prepared

discussing the pros and cons of pool repair versus pool replacement and the various options available. There will

also be sufficient information for associated costs to be prepared for each of the options to enable a business case

analysis to be undertaken.

Refer to the attached spreadsheet for recommended works and further investigations.


4.5 Plant




storage tank

Storage bund does not comply, no delivery bund. A

new storage bund has been purchased however it I

in the storage yard not being used

3 CO² for PH buffering CO² bottles restrained and stored externally

4 PH and Cl controller US Filter Strantrol

System 3

Good Condition

5 l CO² feed system US Filter Strantro Good Condition

6 Main circulation Pump Unknown Good condition, No hair/lint strainer


motor

Monarch 415 3

phase 7.5kW 1460

RPM

Good condition

8 2 Gravity Filters Gravity

sand

3.2mx 3.2m Fair condition, some cracking in the walls

9 Air compressor for air

scour on the filters

Unknown Poor condition

10 2 heat pumps Unknown Good Condition

11 Heater circulation pump, Austral 66m3/hr

4.05kW

Good condition




1 Geotechnical investigation HIGH

To advise on the movement

being experienced by the pool,

concourses and the building

structure

$10,000

2

Leak detection of the pool shells, soiled

and filtered water lines, Cost of repair

would be additional depending on what

was found

HIGH

Water loss from the pool can

cause foundation movements

and cost considerable money in

lost water, heat and chemicals

$20,000

3

Destructive testing of pool shell,

including confirmation of expansion

joint issues

HIGH

To establish the life left in the

pool shell, allowing a decision to

be made to either repair or

replace the pool

$20,000

4







5 Scrap out and re-caulk the pool

expansion joints HIGH

To reduce water loss from the

pool $20,000

6



guidelines.

HIGH


required.

$4,000



HIGH OH&S issue – workplace safety

$6,000

8 Construct suitable Hypo delivery bund.

HIGH



$20,000

9




system.

ALT


deliveries.

$25,000

10 Repainting the 50m pool shell MEDIUM Recommend after other repair

works and or investigations $50,000

11 Service flow control valve in filtration

pipework.

MEDIUM Required for continued function

$6,000

12 Replace/service air compressor used for

backwashing filters

MEDIUM Required for continued function

$2,500



MEDIUM


maintenance.

$5,000

14



necessary

MEDIUM


management.

$2,500



MEDIUM


position.

$600



pool LONG Universal access requirement $150,000

17 New filtration system

LONG


operation.

$450,000

18 New reticulation pipework to pools

LONG



$250,000





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M130336-003-R-CL-mrl | Site Inspection Report | Aquatic Facilities Audit | Eurobodalla Shire Council

Appendix A Leak Detection

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General Method of Leak Detection in Pools Below is a general method for locating leaks in the pool and associated plumbing. The following procedure is fairly general and is for guidance only. The final method adopted is to be determined by the contractor to best suit their situation and their preferred method of work. The general procedure is to isolate each of the pool’s systems and check/monitor that system in isolation to determine if it is leaking:

1. Prior to emptying a pool the appropriate precautions must be taken to ensure the pool will not float. As a general rule the site is to be dewatered, using a number of the pits that will allow the water to be pumped out of the ground and disposed of. The pumps and pits will need to be sized to be able to handle storms that may result in water flowing in, and around the pool. Backup generators may also be required. Hydrostatic relief valves should not be relied upon as they quite often jamb, and/or have insufficient flow capacity to prevent the pool shell from floating. Hydro static relief valves can be removed to increase flow potential through the valve, if the pool is to remain empty for a period of time

2. Starting with the pool full of water, the soiled water and the filtered water lines are to be isolated. 3. The pool is to be monitored and if it is found to lose water, then there are likely to be leaks in the pool

shell, expansion joints, floor drains and/or hydrostatic relief valves. If the water level is allowed to stabilise then this might give an indication of where the leak is, or the water inside the pool has reached equilibrium with the water outside the pool. Equilibrium with the external water can be ruled out by dewatering of the site.

4. If the pool is found not to lose water when the pipe work is isolated, then the leak is most likely in the pipe work and/or the balance tanks.

5. When leaks have been identified within a system, then that system is to be inspected more closely to identify where the leak is and the best means of repair.

6. Where it is determined that the pool shell, pool gutter and/or balance tank are leaking. Then these structures are to be inspected closely for signs of damage within the shell and expansion joints. Leaks can be confirmed by dye tests, this is best done with someone in the pool as the currents can be very slight

7. Pipe work can be tested by means of pressure testing. Care is to be taken to determine a safe pressure the pipes can withstand. Many older pools are installed without thrust blocks on the soiled water lines and use rubber ring joints. Excessive pressure can blow these joints apart resulting in the additional leaks.

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Appendix B Batemans Bay Images

Page | 4


Appendix C Moruya Pool Images

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Appendix D Narooma Pool Images

addendum to site inspection report aquatic facilities ... · arrangement and re-concreting the base...

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