Recreational Water Safety
Pool Inspection Program
The City of Joplin Health Department inspects public and semi public pools within the city limits of Joplin. Examples of semi public pools are apartment pools and athletic club swimming pools. Examples of public pools would be the pools operated by the City of Joplin. Pools are inspected on a monthly basis by one of the Health
Joplin Health Department Pool Reference Guide
The JHD Pool Reference Guide is a guide for pool operators and owners to explain what the Health Department is looking for and at during a pool inspection. The JHD Pool Reference Guide can be viewed at: JHD Pool Reference Guide (PDF)
Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act
The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Safety Act has additional requirements that may be required for your pool or spa in addition to the City of Joplin Pool Ordinance. The Consumer Product Safety Commission is the regulatory agency for the Act. Pool and spa operators and owner should comply with the act. More information on the VGB Pool and Spa Safety Act can be viewed at: Pool and Spa Safety Act
Additional information on pool safety can be found at www.poolsafety.gov
American's with Disabilities Act
Below is a document from the 2011 World Aquatic Health Confrence. It provides guidance for aquatic professionals to plan and implement a strategy to meet the new requirments.
How to Apply the American's with Disabilities Act
Stream Testing
Recreational streams that flow through Joplin City limits are tested by Jasper County and Newton County for E. coli bacteria levels. To access the E. coli testing results, choose the appropriate county.
- For Jasper County creeks including Turkey Creek in Joplin, click here.
- For Newton County creeks including Shoal Creek in Joplin, click here.
Recreational Water Illness
Recreational water illnesses (RWIs) are caused by germs spread by swallowing, breathing in mists or aerosols of, or having contact with contaminated water in swimming pools, hot tubs, water parks, water play areas, interactive fountains, lakes, rivers, or oceans. For more information on RWIs consult the CDC's website at: CDC Recreational Water Illness Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need an inspection prior to opening my pool for the season?
A: The Health Department will inspect opening pools within 2 weeks of the pool opening. Operators should contact the Health Department at 417-623-6122 prior to opening the pool.
Q: Do I need a permit for a pool in my backyard?
A: The Joplin Pool Design and Operation Code does not include single family residential pools. You do not require a permit from the Health Department for a backyard pool.
Q: Where can I find information about becoming a Certified Pool Operator?
A: The Joplin Health Department currently uses the National Swimming Pool Foundation's Certiifed Pool/Spa Operator Certification Program to certify its inspectors. Information on the Certified Pool/Spa Operator Certification Program can be found at http://nspf.org/cpo.aspx. Department's Certified Environmental Health Specialists. New construction pools must go through a plan review process before construction can begin. If you have any questions regarding the City of Joplin's Pool Code contact the Joplin Health Department at 417-623-6122. The Joplin Pool Design and Operation Code can be viewed at: Swimming Pool Design and Operations Code