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Announcements for the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC)
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Thank you for your interest in the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), a collaborative effort of public health, academia, and industry working to protect individuals, families, and communities from preventable waterborne diseases and injuries through evidence-based guidance. Read below for the latest information.
2016
July 18, 2016 collapsed
CDC is pleased to announce the release of the 2016 Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). This second edition of the MAHC includes important updates to the first edition released in 2014.
The MAHC offers science-based guidance that government agencies and the aquatic sector can use to reduce risk for outbreaks, drowning, and chemical injuries at public pools and hot tubs/spas at apartment complexes, hotels, and waterparks.
What’s New?
The 2016 MAHC includes structural changes, clarifying edits, and new or revised recommendations in the areas of disinfection and water quality, lifeguarding and bather supervision, risk management and safety, and ventilation and air quality. What you’ll find on the MAHC website:
- The 2016 MAHC – including model code language and annex with scientific rationale for recommendations
- A summary of key changes and a track changes version with line-by-line edits
- A MAHC-based inspection form
- Updated MAHC infographic, factsheet, and other health promotion materials
- Updated tool to help you compare your pool code and practices to those the MAHC recommends
Get Involved!
- Explore the MAHC website to check out the 2016 edition and supporting materials.
- Join the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code, which collects and votes on requested MAHC changes to recommend to CDC for final decision.
- Join the Network for the Model Aquatic Health Code, a community of MAHC users, subject matter experts, and those hoping to learn about the code (includes regular webinars).
- Help spread the word about the 2016 MAHC by sharing this information with colleagues through email, newsletters, and social media.
- EXAMPLE TWEET: Updated pool code guidelines now available in 2016 Model Aquatic Health Code #MAHC www.cdc.gov/mahc
March 7, 2016 collapsed
Join our introductory MAHC Network webinar on March 15th at 1:00-2:00PM EST
Register at the webinar registration page.
Please join us for the introductory webinar for the MAHC Network, a network to support a community of state and local MAHC users, subject matter experts, and those seeking implementation support.
Bi-monthly webinars feature brief MAHC updates and an environmental health professional’s experience using or adopting the MAHC, including their challenges, successes, and next steps.
This month’s speaker: Eugene Knight, New Mexico Swimming Pool Program Manager
The MAHC Network
The purpose of the MAHC Network is to foster a community of state and local MAHC users, subject matter experts, and those seeking implementation support. The MAHC Network is designed to help
- Increase awareness, peer-to-peer networking, and use of MAHC among health departments,
- Apply knowledge of challenges and successes from health departments,
- Expand use of the MAHC among states and localities, and
- Provide resources needed by local and state health departments to use the code.
Member Benefits
Members will have access to
- A listserv with subject matter experts and health department peers, and
- Bi-monthly webinars on a variety of MAHC topics and resources that reflect member concerns and interests, and
- An interactive online toolkit featuring resources to help create aquatic codes.
With these tools, members can
- Discuss MAHC implementation obstacles and successes with other members
- Help develop new resources by providing feedback and input
- Ask questions and seek advice about MAHC implementation
2015
December 8, 2015 collapsed
Make Sure You Vote: CMAHC Voting Period Half Way Over
Don’t forget to add your voice to updates of the MAHC by voting on the current CMAHC Change Requests (CRs).
The Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) guidance was developed to help state and local health departments prevent drowning, injuries, and the spread of recreational water illnesses at public swimming pools and spas. The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), a non-profit organization, works to ensure that the nation has a voice in the MAHC being regularly improved and updated to keep pace with the latest science, industry advances, and public health findings. CMAHC recommendations are of critical importance when CDC revises the MAHC, which is to be released as the MAHC 2nd Edition in 2016.
REMEMBER! MEMBER VOTING ON 159 CRs CLOSES at MIDNIGHT on DECEMBER 20, 2015.
VOTING IS DONE ELECTRONICALLY.
CMAHC members can access the voting module by signing-in on the CMAHC website and, under the Member's Area drop-down choices in the upper right hand side of the home page, select "Member Vote."
- In the voting module, members will be able to view each of the CRs, the associated Technical Review Committee Report, and any submitted Member Comment(s).
- Members can vote either "yes,” "no,” or "abstain.”
- You do not need to finish your voting in one round so feel free to split your time to fit your schedule. As you enter your votes, click the "I'll Be Back Later" button in the upper right of the voting module to save your current vote status before you exit.
- When you have completed voting and are ready to submit your final vote, click the "Submit My Final Vote" button in the upper right of the voting module.
- Remember---Your vote will not be counted unless you click the "Submit My Final Vote" button.
- It is fine if you want to submit your vote and then change your mind. Just make the changes you need and submit again: you can do this as often as you want until the voting closes at midnight December 20.
- We ask that you consider voting only on those issues you are really knowledgeable about and abstain from others.
Change should be driven by the best practices or data presented. That means if the rationale does not appear to be well supported, then vote the science/best practice; submitters can accumulate more data and try again in the future.
The MAHC and CMAHC are driven by your expertise, so if you are already a member please VOTE.
If you are not yet a member, it is not too late to join so you can share your expertise and have your voice heard!
You can sign-up to become a member on the CMAHC membership page.
November 23, 2015 collapsed
Bring Your Voice to Update the MAHC by Voting on CMAHC Change Requests
The Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) guidance was developed to help state and local health departments prevent drowning, injuries, and the spread of recreational water illnesses at public swimming pools and spas. The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), a non-profit organization, works to ensure that the nation has a voice in the MAHC being regularly improved and updated to keep pace with the latest science, industry advances, and public health findings. CMAHC recommendations are of critical importance when CDC revises the MAHC, which is to be released as the MAHC 2nd Edition in 2016.
Revised MAHC Change Requests (CRs) have been posted, and a second round of member comment has just closed.
VOTING ON THE 159 CRs is NOW OPEN FOR MEMBERS FROM NOVEMBER 21 through DECEMBER 20, 2015.
VOTING IS DONE ELECTRONICALLY.
CMAHC members can access the voting module by signing-in on the CMAHC website and, under the Member's Area drop-down choices, select "Member Vote."
- In the voting module, members will be able to view each of the CRs, the associated Technical Review Committee Report, and any submitted Member Comment.
- Members can vote either "yes,” "no,” or "abstain.”
- You do not need to finish your voting in one round so feel free to split your time to fit your schedule. As you enter your votes, you may click the "I'll Be Back Later" button to save your current vote status. When you have completed your voting and are ready to submit your final vote, click the "Submit My Final Vote" button. You will still be able to change your submitted vote until the December 20 cut-off date.
- Remember---Your vote will not be counted unless you click the "Submit My Final Vote" button.
- We ask that you consider voting only on those issues you are really knowledgeable about and abstain from others.
Change should be driven by the best practices or data presented. That means if the rationale does not appear to be well supported, then vote the science/best practice; submitters can accumulate more data and try again in the future. The MAHC and CMAHC are driven by your expertise, so if you are already a member please vote.
If you are not yet a member, it is not too late to join so you can share your expertise and have your voice heard! You can sign up to become a member on the CMAHC membership page.
September 22, 2015 collapsed
Vote on the Code 2015
Get involved. Become a CMAHC member. Join us for the CMAHC conference.
CDC has worked with public health, academia, and aquatics industry representatives across the United States on developing the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), a voluntary guidance document to prevent drowning, injuries, and the spread of recreational water illnesses at public swimming pools and spas. The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), a non-profit organization, was created to work in partnership with CDC to ensure that the MAHC is regularly improved and updated to keep pace with the latest science, industry advances, and public health findings.
CDC invites you to join the CMAHC and add your voice, in person or virtually, to the chorus of public health and industry experts at the first Vote on the Code biennial conference, October 6-7, 2015. The CMAHC exists solely to promote and sustain the MAHC. Unlike other codes, the MAHC is kept sustainable, current, and complete because the people who use it vote on its content every other year through membership in the CMAHC. These proposed changes are then passed by the CMAHC to CDC to advise CDC on how the MAHC needs to change to keep up with the latest science and best practices.
The CMAHC Technical Review Committee has completed a review of all proposed MAHC changes received in February 2015. All completed and final Change Request (CR) reviews, revisions, and member comments are now posted for viewing and commenting on the CMAHC website. Members are invited to comment on any proposed CRs or reviews. The CMAHC conference will include presentation of key CRs, the technical review, and summaries of member comments that are received by Thursday, September 30, as well as time for caucusing on the CRs and some floor discussion. The CMAHC will continue to accept comments through October 23 to help finalize the CRs, and electronic voting will start one month after the conference ends.
Help promote aquatic health, safety, and recreation. Join the CMAHC as a member and participate (in-person or online) in the Vote on the Code Biennial Conference on October 6 – 7, 2015. It is your expertise that drives this important guidance.
April 9, 2015 collapsed
2015 MAHC Change Requests
Abbreviated and Full Versions Posted on CMAHC Website
Every two years, everyone across the country and around the world will have an opportunity to submit recommendations for improvements to the MAHC by submitting a Change Request form to the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC).
Over 150 Change Request forms were submitted during the January 5 to February 19, 2015 open season for consideration at the 2015 CMAHC Biennial Conference to be held in October 2015. Abbreviated (public) and full (CMAHC members) versions of all submitted 2015 Change Requests have been posted on the CMAHC website under the 2015 Change Requests page.
Members can sign in on the MAHC website front page or through the 2015 Change Request page. The CMAHC website indicates that the section for collecting CMAHC member comments on the submitted 2015 Change Requests is being completed. This new portion of the Members Only section will be launched in April.
March 5, 2015 collapsed
The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) Calls for an Increased Focus on Improved Recreational Water Safety
NACCHO, the national organization representing local public health departments across the United States, released Statement of Policy 15-01[PDF - 4 pages] calling for a renewed focus on improving recreational water safety. The statement emphasizes the importance of pool inspection and other recreational water safety activities at local health departments and specifically mentions the Model Aquatic Health Code as a tool health departments can use to decrease waterborne injury and illness and promote healthy swimming. The NACCHO Statement of Policy includes recommendations for improvements in regulatory oversight, water testing, funding, training, community education, and communication between partners. This is followed by a comprehensive justification for these recommendations.
Read the full Statement of Policy[PDF - 4 pages] on the NACCHO website.
For more information on recreational water safety, visit CDC's Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) website: http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/pools/mahc/index.html
February 2, 2015 collapsed
Submission Deadline Approaching!
From January 5-February 19, 2015, the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) will be accepting change requests for the 2nd Edition of the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). The MAHC Change Request Form is currently available with detailed instructions about how to request a change.
Set the Course for the Future: Suggest Changes to Create MAHC 2nd Edition
Do you regulate pools, design or operate aquatic facilities, or study waterborne disease or injuries? Are you a member of the public interested in protecting and advancing public health at aquatic venues? If so, you are invited to review the current version of the MAHC andsubmit your change requests by February 19, 2015.
How to Submit a Change Request
We encourage you to forward this email and/or to use your social media channels to spread the word. Please see the links below for details regarding the MAHC and CMAHC change request process and sample social media message.
- For more information about the CMAHC: http://www.cmahc.org/index.php
- To access the MAHC Change Request Form and Instructions: http://www.cmahc.org/forms.php
- For more information about the MAHC: http://www.cdc.gov/mahc
- To access the Model Aquatic Health Code: http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/pools/mahc/structure-content/index.html
- Sample social media message:
Public health & aquatics: Submit changes to #MAHC to make the 2nd edition even better. Open 1/5-2/19. http://www.cmahc.org/forms.php
2014
December 15, 2014 collapsed
Submit Changes to the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) Starting January 5
From January 5-February 19, 2015, the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) will be accepting change requests for the 2nd Edition of the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). The MAHC Change Request Form is currently available with detailed instructions about how to request a change.
Set the Course for the Future: Suggest Changes to Create MAHC 2nd Edition
Do you regulate pools, design or operate aquatic facilities, or study waterborne disease or injuries? Are you a member of the public interested in protecting and advancing public health at aquatic venues? If so, you are invited to review the current version of the MAHC andsubmit your change requests by February 19, 2015.
How to Submit a Change Request
We encourage you to forward this email and/or to use your social media channels to spread the word. Please see the links below for details regarding the MAHC and CMAHC change request process and sample social media message.
- For more information about the CMAHC: http://www.cmahc.org/index.php
- To access the MAHC Change Request Form and Instructions: http://www.cmahc.org/forms.php
- For more information about the MAHC: http://www.cdc.gov/mahc
- To access the Model Aquatic Health Code: http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/pools/mahc/structure-content/index.html
- Sample social media message:
Public health & aquatics: Submit changes to #MAHC to make the 2nd edition even better. Open 1/5-2/19. http://www.cmahc.org/forms.php
September 16, 2015 collapsed
Only three weeks away!
The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code Organizational Meeting 2014 "Be In from the Beginning"
How many times have you been able to actually help form an organization and influence how it will work?
New
- The CMAHC meeting has been approved by the National Environmental Health Association for CEU credits.
- The CMAHC meeting will be live streamed, so stay tuned for access information.
- The MAHC 1st Edition has been officially posted at www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/pools/mahc/structure-content/index.html.
Background
The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created in 2013 to support and improve public health by promoting healthy and safe aquatic experiences for everyone. The CMAHC’s role is to serve as a national clearinghouse for input and advice on needed improvements to CDC’s Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). The CMAHC will serve in the key role of collecting, assessing, and relaying national input on needed MAHC revisions back to CDC for final consideration for acceptance into the MAHC. This process will keep the MAHC up to date with the latest scientific and operational lessons. The CMAHC will also 1) advocate for improved health and safety at aquatic facilities, 2) provide assistance to health departments, boards of health, legislatures, and other partners on MAHC uses, benefits, and implementation, 3) provide assistance to the aquatic industry on uses, interpretation, and benefits of the MAHC, and 4) solicit, coordinate, and prioritize MAHC research needs.
Purpose
The 2014 CMAHC Organizational Meeting will be a unique opportunity for public health, aquatics, and other stakeholders to get in on the ground floor of deciding how this vital national entity will be organized and operated. We will discuss how the CMAHC should be organized, how proposed revisions to the MAHC will be submitted, discussed, and how final decisions and membership voting will be made on the recommendations to be sent to CDC. The meeting will also start the process of signing up volunteers to fill vital roles in the proposed submission review and discussion process and start planning for the first official CMAHC Conference to be held in October 2015.
Tentative Agenda
- Setting the Stage
- Background on the MAHC and process
- Reasons for forming the CMAHC
- Proposing a CMAHC Structure
- Strawman review
- Broad overview discussion
- Solidifying the CMAHC Structure and Operation
- Maximizing member input
- Triaging and vetting member ideas
- Organizational needs to make this happen
- Voting and decision making
- Additional CMAHC Role Possibilities
- Research agenda
- Tools and toolkits
- Adoption and technical assistance
- Making it Happen: CMAHC October, 2015
- Planning CMAHC October, 2015
- Membership, volunteer sign-up
Details
When: Wednesday, October 8, 2014; 8 am to 2 pm (immediately before the World Aquatic Health Conference [WAHC])
Where: Portland, Oregon
DoubleTree by Hilton
1000 NE Multnomah Street
Portland, OR 97232
(503) 281-6111
www.doubletreegreen.com
Registration and Cost: There is no registration fee for this meeting. Register for this FREE organizational meeting by emailing susan.wichmann@nspf.org. To register for both the CMAHC and the WAHC, go to http://www.thewahc.org/. Sign up for CMAHC membership at http://www.cmahc.org/membership.php. Over 85 people have already signed up to attend the CMAHC meeting, so sign up while space permits.
August 29, 2014 collapsed
Make Swimming Healthier & Safer: Model Aquatic Health Code 1st Edition Released Today
MAHC 1st Edition now available
Today we launched the nation’s first voluntary guidelines based on science and best practices for improving health and safety at swimming pools and other aquatic venues: The Model Aquatic Health Code 1st Edition. States and localities can use the MAHC to create or update existing pool codes to reduce risk for outbreaks, drowning, and pool-chemical injuries.
Creating the MAHC has been a tremendous process, and CDC thanks the many organizations and individuals who have worked together to develop this document. The MAHC 1st Edition is a product of seven years of work, involving a steering committee, 12 technical committees, 140 people, and input and consensus from public health, aquatics, and academia. In two rounds of public comment, we received more than 4,400 comments—nearly three-quarters of which we accepted to make the MAHC even better.
New materials to promote the MAHC
As we launch the MAHC 1st Edition, we have also updated and created a number of materials to help potential users and stakeholders learn about the MAHC:
- Reorganized and expanded MAHC website
- New MAHC materials
- Button to promote the MAHC on websites, blogs, and social networks
- Fact sheets to print and share
- Infographic to view, share, and print
- New MAHC Training & Education page
- Updated MAHC newsroom
Spread the word
Please remind your colleagues that the MAHC 1st Edition is now available. We encourage you to forward this email and/or to use your social media channels to spread the word. You may use, edit, or customize the following sample posts for use on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, etc.:
- States and localities can help keep swimming healthy and fun. Want to know how? Learn about the new #MAHC: http://go.usa.gov/mXZJ
- New #MAHC uses latest scientific research to address key public health issues in pools & other aquatic facilities. http://go.usa.gov/mXZJ
- With new #MAHC, local & state agencies can incorporate the latest science into pool inspection & safety programs. http://go.usa.gov/mXZJ
Meet the CMAHC
Please check out our new partner, The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) at www.cmahc.org. The CMAHC is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created in 2013 to support and improve public health by promoting healthy and safe aquatic experiences for everyone. The CMAHC will serve as a key CDC partner by serving as a national clearinghouse for gathering stakeholder input and advice on needed improvements to the MAHC.
July 29, 2014 collapsed
The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC)
2014 CMAHC Organizational Meeting
"Be In From the Beginning"
Portland, Oregon
Wednesday, October 8, 2014 - 8am-2pm
This FREE organizational meeting will give public health officials and members of the aquatics industry the unique opportunity to help form the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), which will become the preeminent organization for pool and spa standard of care across the country. The CMAHC is a non-profit organization formed to serve the key role of collecting, assessing, and relaying national input on needed revisions to the MAHC back to CDC for final consideration for acceptance.
The workshop will be held Wednesday, October 8, 2014, 8am-2pm at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 1000 NE Multnomah Street, Portland, Oregon. Meeting registration is free; email susan.wichmann@nspf.org. To register for both the CMAHC meeting and the corresponding World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC), which will also feature sessions about the MAHC, visit the WAHC website. Meeting information will be updated as the meeting approaches at http://www.cmahc.org/newsroom.php. Consider joining the CMAHC now at http://www.cmahc.org/membership.php.
Tentative Agenda
1) Setting the Stage
- Background on the MAHC and process
- Reasons for forming the CMAHC
2) Proposing a CMAHC Structure
- Strawman review
- Broad overview discussion
3) Solidifying the CMAHC Structure and Operation
- Maximizing member input
- Triaging and vetting member ideas
- Organizational needs to make this happen
- Voting and decision making
4) Additional CMAHC Role Possibilities
- Research agenda
- Tools and toolkits
- Adoption and technical assistance
5) Making it Happen: CMAHC October, 2015
- Planning CMAHC October, 2015
- Membership, volunteer sign-up
July 11, 2014 collapsed
Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) website now live
The MAHC is happy to announce the launch of a new website for the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC). The CMAHC is a nonprofit organization created in 2014 to support and improve public health by promoting healthy and safe aquatic experiences for everyone. The CMAHC will serve as a national clearinghouse collecting input and advice on needed improvements to the MAHC. CDC views the CMAHC as a key partner in assuring that a broad array of input is collected to inform CDC on needed MAHC changes.
National Environmental Health Association CMAHC pre-conference presentations available
The CMAHC sponsored a partner pre-conference workshop called "Springboard to Prevention: The Model Aquatic Health Code, 1st Edition" at the National Environmental Health Association conference in Las Vegas on July 7. Presentation slides are available on the CMAHC website.
June 9, 2014 collapsed
Workshop: National Environmental Health Association — July 7, 2014
Springboard to Prevention: The Model Aquatic Health Code, 1st Edition
This workshop at the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Annual Educational Conference (AEC) will present the "knitted" version of the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC). The MAHC will be a guidance document that can help local and state authorities update or implement swimming pool and spa codes or standards without having to "recreate the wheel."
The workshop will cover:
- Common health concerns at aquatic venues
- Key concepts influencing lifeguarding staffing plans
- Secondary disinfection
- A science-based operational and communication support toolkit for aquatic and pool programs
The workshop will be held Monday, July 7, 2014, 1-5pm at The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas, NV. Workshop registration is free with a full or one-day conference registration to the NEHA 2014 AEC.
Meeting: Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code — October 8, 2014
This FREE organizational meeting gives public health officials and members of the aquatics industry the unique opportunity to help form the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC), which will become the preeminent organization for pool and spa standard of care across the country. The CMAHC is a non-profit organization formed to serve the key role of collecting, assessing, and relaying national input on needed revisions to the MAHC back to CDC.
This year's organizational meeting will:
- Discuss how the CMAHC should be organized
- Discuss how proposed revisions to the MAHC will be submitted
- Discuss how final decisions will be made on recommendations
- Develop a research agenda for advancing the MAHC
The workshop will be held Wednesday, October 8, 2014, 8am-2pm at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 1000 NE Multnomah Street, Portland, OR. Meeting registration is free; email susan.wichmann@nspf.org. To register for both the CMAHC meeting and the corresponding World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC), which will also feature sessions about the MAHC, visit the WAHC website.
March 28, 2014 collapsed
MAHC milestone reached!
Today marks an important milestone in the development of the MAHC, the nation’s first science-based model guidance for swimming pools and other aquatic venues. The first complete "Knitted" version of the MAHC has now been released for the MAHC’s second of two 60-day rounds of public comments. This knitted version blends together the 14 modules that have been developed, opened for public comment, and revised based on your feedback.
Be a part of history—send us your comments
Are you an environmental or other public health professional, aquatics facility designer or operator, scientist specializing in waterborne disease or injury prevention, other professional, or a member of the general public interested in protecting and advancing public health at aquatic venues? If so, you are invited to review this version of the MAHC and submit your comments by May 27, 2014.
Spread the word
Please remind your colleagues that this complete, knitted version of the MAHC is now open for public comment. We encourage you to forward this email and/or to use your social media channels to spread the word. You may use, edit, or customize the following sample posts for use on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, etc.:
- Submit comments on first complete "knitted" version of Model Aquatic Health Code released today. Deadline 5/27. http://go.usa.gov/Kfex
- Be part of history! Submit comments on 1st complete national science-based code for swimming pools. http://go.usa.gov/Kfex
- First complete "knitted" version of Model Aquatic Health Code released for public comment. Submit comments by 5/27 http://go.usa.gov/Kfex
Thank you for your review! We look forward to your comments. We will revise the knitted version of the MAHC based on the comments we receive and are excited to release the MAHC 1st Edition in summer 2014.
March 19, 2014 collapsed
New
The Lifeguard & Bather Supervision Module and the Ventilation and Air Quality Module have been revised and re-posted after the first public comment period.
Reminders
The first full “knitted” version of the MAHC is coming soon, and we want your feedback! We plan to release the first full version of the MAHC—a combination of all revised modules and supplemental information—in spring 2014 for a 60-day public comment period.
Get a head start!
Because the MAHC will be a long document, we encourage you to get a head start and begin compiling your comments now on the modules that have been revised after the first public comment period so that you have plenty of time to submit your feedback. The content of these modules will not change substantially, but we will have to reorganize information that may be duplicated in multiple modules and resolve conflicts where duplicate items make different recommendations. We will announce when the full version is posted and we are accepting public comments for 60 days.
Each module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
You can monitor the status of all modules on the MAHC website.
January 24, 2014 collapsed
New
The Disinfection and Water Quality Module and the Regulatory Module have been revised and re-posted after the first public comment period.
Reminders
The first full version of the MAHC is coming soon, and we want your feedback! We plan to release the first full version of the MAHC—a combination of all revised modules and supplemental information—in spring 2014 for a 60-day public comment period.
Get a head start!
Because the MAHC will be a long document, we encourage you to get a head start and begin compiling your comments now on the modules that have been revised after the first public comment period so that you have plenty of time to submit your feedback. The content of these modules will not change substantially, but we will have to reorganize information that may be duplicated in multiple modules and resolve conflicts where duplicate items make different recommendations. We will announce when the full version is posted and we are accepting public comments for 60 days.
Each module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
You can monitor the status of all modules on the MAHC website.
2013
December 16, 2013 collapsed
New
The Facility Design and Construction Module has been revised and re-posted after the first public comment period. View the revised module and the response to comments document.
Reminders
Each module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
You can monitor the status of all modules on the MAHC website.
July 23, 2013 collapsed
New
The Risk Management/Safety Module has been revised and re-posted after the first public comment period.
Reminders
Each module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
You can monitor the status of all modules on the MAHC website.
July 2, 2013 collapsed
New
All 14/14 MAHC modules are now available for public viewing. In addition, 7/14 MAHC modules have been revised following public comment and have been re-posted for viewing.
The Recirculation Systems and Filtration Module is now open for public comment through August 31, 2013.
The Facility Maintenance and Operation Module has been revised and re-posted after the first public comment period. View the revised module and the response to comments documents.
Reminders
Each module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
You can monitor the status of all modules on the MAHC website.
June 5, 2013 collapsed
New
Four modules have been revised and re-posted after the first public comment period:
- Monitoring and Testing Module (posted 06/05/13)
- Contamination Burden Module (posted 06/05/13)
- Hygiene Facilities Module (posted 05/30/13)
- Fecal/Vomit/Blood Contamination Module (posted 05/30/13)
Reminders
Each module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
You can monitor the status of all modules on the MAHC website.
April 11, 2013 collapsed
Be the first to know CDC’s latest recommendations for aquatic venues!
Join CDC and partners for the release of the first edition of the Model Aquatic Health Code for final public comment. The event will take place at the National Environmental Health Aquatic Symposium, a special preconference at this year’s National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Annual Educational Conference & Exhibition.
The preconference will be held Monday, July 8th from 1-5 p.m.
Register for NEHA preconference on the MAHC.
Note: The symposium is free with any one-day or full conference registration. After logging in and registering for the conference, you will have the option to add this symposium and other preconference workshops. Questions? Visit http://neha2013aec.org/ to learn more about the conference and preconference.
2012
December 13, 2012 collapsed
New
The Monitoring and Testing Module is open for public comment through February 10, 2013.
You may also notice the website’s new look! We have redesigned the site and will be making further changes in the coming months as the MAHC continues its evolution.
Reminders
Each newly posted module has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
To learn more about public comments, visit the Public Comment Process page.
October 9, 2012 collapsed
Public comment period closing October 14
The public comment period for three MAHC modules will close this Sunday, October 14:
- Contamination Burden Module
- Facility Design and Construction Module
- Lifeguarding and Bather Supervision Module
August 15, 2012 collapsed
New Fact Sheet: Model Aquatic Health Code
Download and print our new fact sheet, "The Model Aquatic Health Code: Making Swimming Healthy and Safe".[PDF - 2 pages]
July 23, 2012 collapsed
Update
The public comment period for the Lifeguarding and Bather Supervision Module has been extended to accommodate requests for additional time after the end of the busy swim season. The public comment period will now close on October 14, 2012.
New
Participate in a free webinar on preventing drowning, injuries, and the spread of recreational water illnesses through the Model Aquatic Health Code. Hosted by the Network for Public Health Law, the webinar features Lieutenant Commander Jasen Kunz of CDC and Doug Farquhar of the National Conference for State Legislatures.
Click here for more information and to register for the FREE webinar, held on August 16, 2012 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. (ET).
July 20, 2015 collapsed
New
The Contamination Burden Module is open for public comment through October 14, 2012.
The Facility Design and Construction Module is open for public comment through October 14, 2012.
Reminder
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
May 31, 2012 collapsed
New
The Lifeguarding and Bather Supervision Module is open for public comment through July 30, 2012. (Update: This public comment period has been extended through October 14, 2012.)
Reminder
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
February 28, 2012 collapsed
New
The Disinfection and Water Quality Module is open for public comment through April 27, 2012.
Reminder
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
2011
December 7, 2011 collapsed
New
The Regulatory Program Administration Module is open for public comment through February 5, 2011.
Reminder
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
November 16, 2011 collapsed
New
Find out the latest update on progress with the MAHC by watching a 1-hour presentation by Doug Sackett, Director of the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), which was presented at the World Aquatic Health™ Conference in Seattle on October 14, 2011. Watch this presentation (courtesy of the National Swimming Pool Foundation) and others for free by going to the Training & Education page.
The Preface, User Guide, and Glossary have been revised following their first 60-day public comment period. They are now posted for viewing, not public comment.
Reminder
The public comment period for the MAHC Risk Management/Safety Module closes this Friday, November 18, at midnight EST. Get your comments in now so you can influence the revision of this important module.
Upcoming
The Regulatory Program Administration Module is now in CDC clearance. We anticipate that it will be ready to be posted for public comment in the next month.
October 31, 2011 collapsed
The following technical modules are now available for public comment:
- The Facility Maintenance and Operation Module is open for public comment through December 29, 2011.
- The Hygiene Facilities Module is open for public comment through December 29, 2011.
- The Preface, User Guide, and Glossary have been revised following the first 60-day public comment period. They are currently in CDC clearance and are expected to be posted for viewing, not public comment, within the next month.
- The Regulatory Program Administration Module is in final editing by the MAHC Editor and is expected to go into CDC clearance in the next several weeks.
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
September 16, 2011 collapsed
The following technical modules are now available for public comment:
- The Risk Management/Safety Module is open for public comment through November 18, 2011.
- The Facility Maintenance and Operation Module and the Hygiene Facilities Module are in final CDC clearance and should be posted for public comment within the next several weeks.
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
April 13, 2011 collapsed
The following technical modules are now available for public comment:
- The Ventilation and Air Quality Module is open for public comment through June 12, 2011.
- The Operator Training Module has been re-posted after addressing the first round of public comments. It will be open again for public comment when the complete MAHC is posted and is made available now as a resource for those updating their pool codes in the near future.
Each newly posted MAHC module also has a short synopsis or abstract highlighting the most critical recommendations. Please visit the MAHC Module Abstracts page for more information.
We also have a new "MAHC In the News" feature with webinars, magazines, and other MAHC news items that have been published by external groups about the MAHC effort. Please visit the MAHC Newsroom for the latest updates.
2010
September 15, 2010 collapsed
Based on partner feedback, the closing date for public comments on the Operator Training Module has been extended until October 31, 2010.
July 27, 2010 collapsed
The following technical module is now available for public comment:
- The Operator Training Module is open for public comment through September 25, 2010.
2008
October 10, 2008 collapsed
Model Aquatic Health Code News - October 10, 2008[PDF - 1 page]
Announces release for public comment of MAHC modules 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 (Preface, User Guide, Definitions) and module 8.0 Annex supporting module 6.5 Fecal/Vomit/Blood Contamination Response. These modules include the MAHC preface, guidelines for MAHC use, and an initial list of definitions to be used with the MAHC. The Annex contains explanations and references supporting the Fecal/Vomit /Blood Contamination
October 1, 2008 collapsed
Model Aquatic Health Code News - October 1, 2008[PDF - 1 page]
Announces release for public comment of MAHC module 6.0 Policies and Management; 6.5 Fecal/Vomit/Blood Contamination Response.
This module covers response guidelines for the disinfection of water and surfaces following contamination with feces, vomit or blood.
For more information, please contact us at MAHC@cdc.gov.
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- Page last reviewed: August 17, 2016
- Page last updated: August 17, 2016
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