2012 USA Swimming Rule Book

103.6
103.6 /M/ OVERFLOW RECIRCULATION SYSTEM — The pool water recirculation and overflow
system shall maintain water level in line with the overflow rim of the pool gutters without creating
appreciable current or water turbulence and shall maintain smooth and calm water surface during
competition. The pool recirculation system shall be turned off if, in the opinion of the Referee, the
water movement interferes with the conduct of competition.
103.7 WATER AND AIR TEMPERATURE
.1 /M/ Water temperature between 25 to 28 degrees Celsius (77 to 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit)
shall be maintained for competition.
.2 Air temperature within 8 feet above deck level in indoor facilities shall be not lower than 76
degrees Fahrenheit, with relative humidity maintained at about 60% and air velocity at about
25 feet per minute.
103.8 /M/ LADDERS — All ladders, steps or stairs within the racing course shall be recessed in
the pool side walls or shall be removed during competition.
103.9 OTHER DECK EQUIPMENT
.1 /LSC/ Use of portable lifeguard chair stands and other deck fixtures is recommended and
they should be removed from the competition area to allow free passage and unobstructed
view for competitors and officials along all sides of the course.
.2 /M/ 1 meter diving boards which overhang the racing course shall be hinged out of the way
or removed during competition.
103.10 /M/ LIGHTING
.1 /LSC/ A minimum of one hundred (100) foot candle illumination level is required at the water
surface over the entire course. Overhead light fixtures shall be located to avoid the casting
of shadows by the pool walls over the racing course.
.2 /NC/ At National Championships the same type and level of illumination that will be used for
finals must be provided and maintained during the warm-up period and preliminaries.
103.11 /M/ TOBACCO PRODUCTS — Smoking and use of other tobacco products is prohibited
in all areas of the venue.
103.12 /M/ ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES — Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all areas of the
venue. Exceptions to this provision may be made only with the approval of the USA Swimming
Board of Directors.
103.13 /M/ STARTING PLATFORMS
.1 Height.
A Long course and short course meters: The front edge of the starting platform shall
be no less than 0.50 meters (1 foot 8 inches) nor more than 0.75 meters (2 feet 5½
inches) above the surface of the water.
B Short Course yards: The front edge of the starting platform shall be not higher than 2
feet 6 inches (0.762 meters) above the surface of the water.
.2 The front edge of the starting platform shall be flush with the face of the end walls.
46 2012 Rules & Regulations