Information for operators of Class C facilities
What is a Class C facility?
A Class C facility is a public wading pool, a public spray or splash pad, a water slide receiving basin that serves solely as a receiving basin for person at the bottom of a water slide, or a public floatation tank.
A wading pool is any structure, basin, chamber or tank containing or intended to contain an artificial body of water having a depth of water equal to 75 centimetres or less at any point, that is provided for the recreational, or instructive use of young children.
A splash pad is an indoor or outdoor water play area that includes sprayed, jetted or other water sources contacting bathers, and has no standing or captured water as part of the bather activity area. It may also be referred to as a public spray pad.
A public floatation tank is a basin, chamber, or tank that contains a saturated bathing solution of magnesium sulphate for floatation purposes, is not drained, cleaned, sanitized and refilled before use by each individual, is designed for up to two bathers, and provides a light and sound reduced environment.
What general safety checks are required for Class C facilities?
Prior to opening each day or after a period of non-use, the operator should inspect the following items:
- the Class C facility and its equipment are maintained in a safe and sanitary manner
- all components of the Class C facility are maintained in proper working order
- where applicable, treatment and re-circulation equipment are operational
- clean water and source water is free of contamination and visible matter that may be hazardous to the health and safety of the bathers
- supervision signs are posted and clearly visible in a conspicuous place
- safety related equipment present in the facility are inspected, and records of the inspections are maintained
What are the construction requirements for a splash pad?
All splash pads should be designed and constructed in a manner that ensures safety of the users. For specific requirements prior to any construction or alterations, owners and operators should be advised to contact their local building and municipal bylaw departments, their local health unit, the Electrical Safety Authority and/or Technical Standards and Safety Authority, as applicable. Operators can obtain more information by reviewing the Public Pools Regulation.
This item was last modified on June 26, 2025