We were recently contacted by a nurse researcher regarding lightning policies concerning indoor pools.

Here’s what she asked:
I am contacting you about a "lightning policy" at our Parks and Recreation indoor pool.  The National Electric Code Article 250 — Sections 250.1 through 250.4 require that indoor pools be grounded and safe from lightning strikes. According to management at the facility, which closes the indoor pool when pool staff hear thunder or see lightning outdoors, there is a risk of lightning strikes to indoor pool patrons.  As I am sure you are aware, there has never been a reported incident of a patron being killed by lightning in an indoor pool.

The closing of indoor pools during storms has recently been deemed an "urban legend" because there is no scientific evidence of the need for this policy.  The National Lightning Safety Institute, founded by Richard Kithil, recommends closing indoor pools based on the results of an Internet Google search of "indoor pool and lightning" (http://www.lightningsafety.com/nlsi_pls/indoor_pools.html).  The NLSI also lists several organizations who have position statements/policies that require indoor pools to close during storms.  These organizations either do NOT have these policies or their policies are based on the NLSI recommendation following the Google search. I have tried to contact the NLSI but none of the contact links are valid.

My query to you is to ascertain whether there is a legitimate risk to patrons at an indoor pool that has facilities up to code (NEC 250).   I have read several documents that support not closing indoor pools during storms. Thank you for your help.

The nurse researcher and her team are currently conducting a study to determine if patrons are being placed at risk by leaving indoor pool facilities during thunderstorms.

What do you think? We’d like to hear from you, so post your comment below. Dr. Hardin-Fanning, the nurse researcher can be contacted directly at fdbowe2@uky.edu.

Mike Holt’s comment: It’s a myth!
http://www.sportrisk.com/2011/08/the-myth-around-closing-indoor-pools-when-theres-lightning/
http://www.aquaticsintl.com/safety/when-lightning-strikes.aspx