Model Aquatic Health Code Guidance

The 2016 Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) (2nd Edition) launched July 15, 2016.

Visit the MAHC website to access

• the MAHC code;
• annex with scientific explanations;
• Code comparison tool;
• materials including MAHC factsheet, infographic, and web button;
• and information about how you can get involved.

How Can States and Localities Use the MAHC?

States and localities can use the MAHC to make swimming and other water activities healthier and safer. The MAHC is a free, science-based resource to improve health and safety in

• Public swimming pools
• Pools, hot tubs, and spas in hotels, apartment complexes, and neighborhoods
• Waterparks
• Other aquatic facilities

The MAHC guidelines address the design, construction, operation, maintenance, policies, and management of public aquatic facilities. States and localities can use it to create or update existing pool codes to reduce risk for drowning, waterborne illness outbreaks, and injuries from pool chemicals.

How Was the MAHC Developed?

The MAHC was developed through a collaborative effort involving academia, public health, and industry. The input from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has drawn from expertise in the areas of environmental health, infectious disease, public health law, and injury prevention.

Environmental Health Services has been involved in this effort since the beginning, contributing subject-matter expertise to the development of the MAHC, helping manage the MAHC’s various technical and steering committees, and working with code-making organizations to align pool-related codes with key public health principles. In addition, Environmental Health Services is helping to develop recommendations and tools to make it easier for environmental health professionals at local, state, tribal and territorial levels to use and customize the MAHC.

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).