• Commercial pools in New Mexico have specific design requirements.swimming pool image by apeschi from Fotolia.com
  
  In April 2008, the environmental improvement board of New Mexico's Environment Department adopted new regulations that took effect in July 2008. Among these regulations are strict guidelines by which the gates and barriers at commercial pool facilities should be constructed and used. According to the board, all items associated with a public pool in the state should be made of materials that are non-toxic, durable and easily cleanable.
  
  

Dimensions

• According to New Mexico's Environment Department legislation, the top of commercial pool gates cannot be less than 5 feet when measured from the ground. Barriers must have a clearance with a radius of 5 feet when measured from the top of the fence. The bottom horizontal rail on the enclosure cannot be more than 4 inches above the pool's concrete deck.
  
  

Ways of Entry

• Gates and doors at commercial pool facilities should open outwards, away from the pool. The gates must also be equipped with a self-locking device that can lock from the outside, and gates must be self-closing. Gates should not be kept open or in any way prevented from closing and locking. According to Title 7, Chapter 18, Part 4, Section 21 of the legislation, gates in areas with lifeguard service or monitored public access must remain open while the pool is in operation.
  
  

Design

• Commercial pool facilities in New Mexico must have a gate that does not have decorative elements that can serve as a foothold or handhold. The board states that the barrier must be "durable, stable and of firm construction" so that it cannot be climbed.
  
  

Warning Signs

• According to Title 7, Chapter 18, Part 4, Section 26 of the state statute, a warning sign must be posted on the pool's fence or barrier stating that the pool's maximum capacity. Additionally, the gate must have a sign reading "Warning -- no lifeguard service is provided. All children under the age of 14 shall be accompanied by an observer 18 years or older," with accompanying details for an emergency contact.