Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Under what conditions must pools in Coastal High Hazard Areas be designed?

1. To function only at ground level

2. To break away during design flood conditions without causing debris

3. To be made of lightweight materials

4. To be built underground

The correct answer is: To break away during design flood conditions without causing debris

Pools located in Coastal High Hazard Areas are required to be designed to break away during design flood conditions without causing debris. This requirement is critical because in high hazard zones, the risks associated with flooding and storm surges can lead to severe damage and dangerous debris that can impact other structures and the environment. When pools are designed to break away, they can release themselves from their foundations or attached structures safely, minimizing the risk of causing hazardous materials to be dislodged and carried away by floodwaters. This design consideration is vital for maintaining safety and mitigating potential harm during extreme weather events. The other options do not align with the specific requirements for safety and resilience in flood-prone areas. For instance, restricting pools to ground level or making them from lightweight materials does not address the necessity of ensuring they do not create debris in flood conditions. Similarly, constructing pools entirely underground is impractical and may not meet safety and accessibility standards. The focus on structural breakaway capabilities is the key aspect that informs the correct answer.