Pre-Inspection Checklist
1. Documentation & recordkeeping
Daily chemistry log CRITICAL
pH, free chlorine, combined chlorine, temperature logged daily with time + staff initials. Retain 1-3 years minimum. Use our daily log template if you don't have one.
Equipment maintenance log CRITICAL
Filter cleanings, sanitizer additions, repairs, parts replaced — date, technician name, and photos when applicable. Inspectors will ask "when was the chiller last serviced?"
Incident log HIGH
Any user complaints (skin reactions, dizziness, illness), injuries, or near-misses logged with date, description, response action, follow-up. Empty log = either you got lucky or you're not documenting.
Annual permit on file CRITICAL
Current public pool/spa permit from your county Environmental Health office, posted visibly. Most CA counties require annual renewal.
2. Equipment safety
VGBA-compliant drain covers CRITICAL
All drain covers stamped ASME/ANSI A112.19.8 compliant. Manufacturer compliance certificate filed. Federal law since 2008 — non-compliance is civil penalty + lawsuit territory.
Drain cover inspection log HIGH
Monthly visual check for cracks, gaps, missing screws. Replacement on manufacturer schedule (typically 5-7 years).
GFCI test log CRITICAL
Annual minimum (monthly preferred) GFCI test on all circuits serving the cold plunge. Press TEST button → breaker trips → reset → confirm. Sign + date the log.
Bonding compliance HIGH
All conductive equipment within 5 ft of water properly bonded per NEC Article 680. Documented at install + periodic inspection. Licensed electrician sign-off.
Chiller annual service record HIGH
Refrigerant pressure check, condenser coil clean, compressor inspection. Must be done by EPA 608 certified tech (federal law for refrigerant handling). Log dated + signed by tech with cert number.
3. Signage & access controls
Operating rules sign HIGH
Posted visibly near plunge entry. Hours of operation, age limits, supervision requirements, depth, emergency contact, maximum bather load.
Cold immersion contraindications sign HIGH
"Do not use if pregnant, history of cardiovascular conditions, uncontrolled hypertension, recent surgery, intoxicated." Reduces liability + meets inspector expectations.
Maximum immersion time sign MEDIUM
"Do not exceed 5 minutes of immersion. Exit immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unable to control breathing." Industry-standard guidance.
Emergency contact + 911 sign HIGH
"Emergency: call 911. Facility manager contact: [name + phone]." Visible from plunge area.
Depth markings MEDIUM
Water depth clearly marked at entry. Cold plunges deep enough to fully submerge typically require legible depth indication per local code.
Adequate lighting + non-slip surrounds MEDIUM
Lighting sufficient to see water clarity + identify emergency. Surrounds rated non-slip when wet.
4. Operator competency
CPO-certified operator on staff HIGH
At least one Certified Pool Operator on staff (Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, 2-day course, ~$300). Most CA county inspectors expect this for public-access commercial plunges.
Annual staff training documented MEDIUM
Front-desk + floor staff training on daily upkeep, log entry, emergency procedures. Sign-in sheet with date filed.
Emergency response protocol posted HIGH
Written + visible: what to do if user is unresponsive, calling 911, AED location, water shut-off, post-incident reporting steps.