Handled with Care: Safety Gets an Upgrade
A recent upgrade to the 25-metre pool at Makino Aquatic Centre (MAC) is making a meaningful difference for swimmers with limited mobility. A second stainless steel handrail has been added alongside the existing ramp, providing dual support points for users entering or exiting the water.
The improvement directly addresses the needs of amputees, older adults, and residents from care facilities—many of whom require extra assistance, including hoisting or aquatic wheelchairs. With the second rail now in place, these users can be guided into the water more safely and comfortably using MAC’s pool-friendly wheelchairs that roll directly down the ramp.
“This isn’t just a small feature—it’s a vital improvement,” says the Aquatic Services Manager. “We want everyone who visits to feel confident that the pool is both accessible and safe.”
The new rail also acts as a stability aid for those using walking sticks or walkers and helps reduce the risk of slips and falls. It serves an added function as a visual and physical barrier, deterring children from jumping into a non-designated area.
To support seamless transitions between land and water, bright chairs have also been placed near the ramp, offering swimmers a convenient spot to leave personal items—particularly helpful during aqua aerobics classes where mobility levels vary widely.
Though subtle, the handrail is a powerful symbol of MAC’s ongoing commitment to inclusion. “We’re focused on removing barriers—one improvement at a time,” says Flanders.
For many, the new handrail offers more than physical support; it’s a quiet reassurance that they are welcome, safe, and encouraged to take part.
Photo of the newly installed handrail and Makino Aquatic Centre Wheelchair.