Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This one, regarding hotel swimming pools and underwater lux levels, is answered by the ECA:
Query from the designer: Regarding raised the pool levels we were referring to, was light INSIDE the water? However high the light level outside the water surface, it is impossible to see during the night someone who might fall, since water surface acts as a reflector, especially if the pool tiles have dark finishes. So safety is an important issue here. BS EN 15288-1:2008 'Swimming pools - Safety requirements for design' (1), (2) refers to lux levels of the surrounding areas and on water surface.
Question 2: What is the necessary lux level for the surround of hotel swimming pools (such as walkways or islands beside the pool), according to EU and UK standards?
Also, what is the related standard code to see these lux levels (please see the attached drawing)? In the drawing, above the filtration plants are walkways.
Click on the link below to download the attachment (PDF doc - 141kB file size).Answer: We are not aware of any lux level requirements for underwater lighting. Normally, underwater lighting is used as architectural/feature lighting, but - of course - the same could also be used as safety lighting.
BS EN 15288-1 Swimming pools - Safety requirements for design is the European standard for design requirements for the safety of swimming pools. This has with in it recommendations for lighting levels. It is recommended that maximum use of natural light is used. Circulation, plant rooms and changing areas require a uniform 100 lux; water areas require a uniform 200 lux. Lower levels are permitted, but with increased supervision. Underwater lighting is recommended in pools with deep water.
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