Changes in the legislation governing the operation of swimming pools since the licensing process, fees and even the rate of water purification are determined.
The purpose of the bill prepared by the Ministry of Interior is to clarify specific provisions of the existing framework, to streamline licensing and inspection procedures, to update technical requirements, as well as to improve the applicability of provisions related to the operation and supervision of swimming pools, without affecting the level of safety and public health.
As provided, the operating license of swimming pools is valid for a period of three years and is renewed every three years. The term "swimming pool" is redefined since it will now mean any swimming pool, public or private, for which a planning permit and/or a building permit was issued before the date of entry into force of this Law or for which an application for the issuance of a planning permit and/or a building permit was submitted before that date. For the operation of a swimming pool, a certificate of suitability for electrical installations from the Department of Electromechanical Services is required. The manager is responsible for the management and operation of a swimming pool and, if the latter ceases to exist, a period of two months is provided for the appointment of a new manager and in case of non-compliance within this period, the operating license is suspended without any procedure for this purpose.
As further provided, for reasons of public health protection, on the basis of a reasoned report and recommendation of the Health Service or the Department of Electromechanical Services, the operating license is revoked. Also, in the event that the certificates or attestations that have been submitted are not valid, the operation of the swimming pool is suspended until their renewal or replacement and the determination of compliance by the competent Authority.
It is also determined that the issuance of an operating license amounts to €100, the renewal to €50, the reissue after revocation or changes to €85, the certificate from the Health Services to €30, the issuance of a certificate of suitability for electrical or mechanical installations to €70 each.
According to regulations, "sports swimming pool" means a public swimming pool that is used exclusively or mainly for the conduct of competitions and/or for training and/or training of athletes and/or for learning and includes swimming pools belonging to Gymnastics Schools or Schools. Finally, it is provided that, for swimming pools owned and/or managed by the Cyprus Sports Organisation, there may be one safety supervisor per swimming pool, provided that all coaches who are in the swimming pool in question at the time of its operation, hold a lifeguard diploma or certificate.
The bill and regulations were put to public consultation until July 6.
