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Pool Safety Guidance Index

Jan 21, 2021

INDEX

This index supports swimming pool safety professionals working in the leisure environment to find guidance related to their work.

Use the Ctrl + F function or navigate the alphabetical index to find the guidance you are looking for. On your mobile, use Find on Page in your browser menu options.

Accident reporting

Guidance on accident reporting

Access and egress

Guidance on access and egress

Admission (to the pool)

Admissions policies in the swimming pool

Alarms

Alerting the team to danger in the swimming pool environment

Aqua aerobics

Guidance on Aqua Aerobics

Aquanatal, postnatal, and baby swimming

Guidance on baby swimming

Aqua spinning classes

Hydrospin bikes

Assistive lifeguard technology

What is assistive lifeguard technology?

Breath-holding, ducking, submersion, and underwater/shallow water blackout

Hypoxic training

Hypoxic blackout

Canoeing and kayaking

Guidance on canoe sessions

Chemicals (including Chemical stores and plant rooms)

Guidance on chemical management

Clothing and uniform

Lifeguard uniform

Cleaning and skin safety

Lifeguard skincare

Confined space

Pool undercrofts

Daily checks

There is a requirement for daily checks in Type 1 and Type 2 swimming pools, focusing on equipment and installation integrity, and periodically in Type 3 pools.

(Clause 7.7.3. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 Safety requirements for operation).

Dog swims at your swimming pool

Guidance on dog swim sessions

Domestic pool

A domestic pool is defined by law as one with domestic usage. A pool is not per se public or domestic. Guidance for domestic pools lies primarily in EN 16713. Most of HSG179 does not represent the current standard for domestic pools, even as a recommendation.

(BS EN 16582-1:2015, Domestic swimming pools. General requirements including safety and test methods; BS EN 16582-2:2015. Domestic swimming pools. Specific requirements including safety and test methods for inground pools; BS EN 16582-3:2015. Domestic swimming pools. Specific requirements including safety and test methods for aboveground pools; EN 16713-1:2016. Domestic swimming pools. Water systems. Part 1 Filtration systems. Requirements and test methods; EN 16713-2:2016. Domestic swimming pools. Water systems. Circulation systems. Requirements and test methods; EN 16713-3:2016. Domestic swimming pools. Water systems. Water treatment. Requirements).

Dye Test

Guidance on completing a dye test

Early-intervention

Lifeguards should be informed that responsible persons may need to be reminded of their responsibility to supervise others in their care.

(Paragraph 70. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition).

Eating and drinking

Eating and swimming

Electricity (including fixed and portable electrical safety)

See the upcoming RLSS UK guidance note.

Emergency procedures

What should be covered in the Emergency Action Plan

Emergency routes

Emergency routes should be designed in line with national regulations and consider barefoot users. If evacuated outdoors, pool users may require protection from the weather (cold/sun).

(Clause 5.7.4, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 Safety requirements for design; Paragraph 40. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition).

Epilepsy and the pool

See the upcoming RLSS UK guidance note.

Equipment checks (repairs and maintenance)

You must check your rescue and other equipment at your pool. No check interval is specified, and an account of any requirements from the manufacturer (including subsequent safety alerts) should be taken. You should also check "Daily Checks" above.

Maintenance intervals, remedial works and required competency for those using, repairing, or maintaining equipment as informed by the manufacturer's instructions, national regulations, and risk assessment. No intervals are specified by EN 15288-2.

Qualification requirements apply to underwater divers who repair pool tiles (EN ISO 15618-1 and EN ISO 15618-2). The HSE Medical Examination and Assessment of commercial divers apply to those who dive as part of their job. There are five Approved Codes of Practice established by the Diving at Work Regulations 1997, the links to which are included below.

(Clauses 7.7.3 and 7.7.8. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 Safety requirements for operation; EN ISO 15618-1:2016. Qualification testing of welders for underwater welding. Hyperbaric wet welding; EN ISO 15618-2:2002. Qualification testing of welders for underwater welding. Diver-welders and welding operators for hyperbaric dry welding; HSE. 2015. The medical examination and assessment of commercial divers. MA1, revision 4; HSE. 2014. Commercial diving projects offshore. Diving at Work Regulations 1997. Approved code of practice and guidance. L103, second edition; HSE. 2014 Commercial diving projects inland/inshore. Diving at Work Regulations 1997. Approved code of practice and guidance L104, second edition; HSE. 2014. Recreational diving projects. Diving at Work Regulations 1997. Approved code of practice. L105, second edition; HSE. 2014. Media diving projects. Diving at Work Regulations 1997. Approved code of practice and guidance. L106, second edition; HSE. 2014. Scientific and archaeological diving projects. Diving at Work Regulations 1997. Approved code of practice. L107, second edition).

Fasting (employees and non-employees)

RLSS UK. 2020. Ramadan and fasting, swimming safety considerations. January 2020

RLSS UK. 2020. Guidance statement. Lifeguarding and Ramadan safety considerations. January 2020.

First aid, CPR, AED, and oxygen therapy

Guidance on First Aid

FloatFit^®

FloatFit^®is a product of Aqua Physical Limited. Guidance on safe use, setup and instructor standards should be sought from Aqua Physical.

Aqua Physical. Web. Available at: https://www.aquaphysical.com/intellectual-property accessed 23rd January 2021.

Glazing

Glazing, including windows in transparent or translucent surfaces in walls, partitions, light fittings, doors and gates should, where necessary for health and safety, be made of safety material or protected against breakage. Pool area glazing should be made of safety glass to withstand foreseeable impact from objects such as water polo balls. It should be marked, cleaned and maintained. If glazing presents a danger, it should be kept, and the pool users' attention should be drawn to it via signage and/or markings.

Paragraphs 198-199. 232. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition

Clause 5.7.5, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 Safety requirements for design

Goggles

STA. 2012. Use of Swimming Goggles – Guidelines for Parents and Carers. November 2012

Swim England. 2017. Use of swimming goggles. June 2017

ISO 18527-3:2020. Eye and face protection for sports use. Requirements and test methods for eyewear intended to be used for surface swimming.

Hazards

What is a hazard?

HVAC (Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)

HVAC controls should be determined by reference to requirements specified by the manufacturer and the operator risk assessment. If modified or altered in any way, procedures should be re-appraised. EN 15288-1 provides recommended values for air temperature (+0K - +4K), relative humidity (40%-65%), and airspeed (<= 0.10 m/s). CIBSE provides more detailed HVAC specifications; you should check those specified by the appropriate manufacturer.

(Paragraphs 177-182, 184-193. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 7.7.6. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; Clause 5.7.8. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; PWTAG. 2019. Atmospheric detection of chloramines. TN16).

Health and safety policy

EN 15288-2 provides an organisation with a safety policy to set the safety approach to responsibilities, procedures, training, and periodic compliance evaluation.

(Clause 5.5.1. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation).

Heated surfaces

EN 15288-1 specifies that any directly heated surfaces, such as towel rails, do not exceed 40°C.

(Paragraph 193. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 5.7.8. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design).

Induction

Those who provide pool supervision should receive initial training in safety procedures, validated by practical tests, which are recorded to demonstrate competence.

Young workers, child workers, and those with work experience should also be considered when assembling inductions. Those returning to work after a long absence may also require a re-assessment to determine if re-induction is necessary to establish the required competence.

(Clause 7.4.5. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; Paragraph 61-62, 277. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; HSE. [web] Available at: https://www.hse.gov.uk/vulnerable-workers/new-to-the-job.htm accessed 17th January 2021).

Inflatable play equipment

Consideration should be given to the additional impact hazard presented to swimmers falling from the inflatable onto anchorage lane lines. Inflatable play may reduce visibility from your allocated positions for poolside supervision, which may require additional lifeguards to be deployed, allocated positions to be adjusted, lifeguards to be required to patrol, underwater lighting to be installed, or camera technology to overcome these challenges. Care should be taken to review the appropriate water depth for diving, jumping or falling across the full length of the inflatable (even where prohibited by the operator). How weaker swimmers use the inflatable to access deeper water should be considered.

Where a continuous-flow blower is used to sustain full inflation, the relevant requirements around the use of electrical equipment on the poolside should be reviewed, in addition to PUWER 1998 and portable appliance testing (PAT). Trailing cables and additional matting used when the inflatable sessions are run may also add additional trip and slip hazards, respectively. Session duration may also be shorter to reduce the hazards of fatigued lifeguards and pool users in inflatable sessions. Adjust your rotation and maximum poolside working time requirements for lifeguards accordingly.

In the event of an inflatable collapse, panic, entrapment, and drowning risk is present. Consideration should be given to evacuating the pool and initiating rescues in these circumstances. You should reflect on any adjustments you may need to make to the maximum number of users permitted physically on the inflatable at any one time in light of your rescue capability in circumstances where the inflatable was to collapse.

Infection, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, should also be part of your hygiene controls for pool equipment, such as inflatable play. PWTAG and the RSPH produce documents on this topic. The guidance from PIPA and ADiPs should also be reviewed. Consideration should be given as to whether the fairground requirements apply.

(Paragraphs 170-171. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; EN 14960-1:2019. Inflatable play equipment. Safety requirements and test methods; EN 14960-3:2020. Inflatable play equipment. Additional safety requirements and test methods; PWTAG. 2019. Notes on the hygiene of pool play equipment. TN29; HSE. 2017. Fairgrounds and amusement parks. Guidance on safe practice. HSG175, third edition).

(Safety) Information and signage

All pools can be made safer by making pool users aware of potential hazards and how to stay safe. Swimming and non-swimming areas should be marked. Diving and non-diving areas should be marked. Emergency routes, access to unauthorised areas, and activities with age or height restrictions should be marked. Operators should communicate relevant safety information to pool users and have available to them a variety of means, including:

Their employees
Facility/pool rules
Safety signage
Emergency and warning signals
Contracts
Plans/maps of the facility
Leaflets
Website, social media, operator app, and other public information systems

Critical information may include age requirements, responsible adult requirements, depth markings, gradient markings, pool rules, diving areas, how to summon assistance etc. These requirements should be:

Located, positioned, or drawn to the attention of pool users
Use a text, colour, and language suitable for the specific pool user audience (including those under 18).
Use recognised safety iconography, colour markings, or similar devices to improve effectiveness.
Be planned at the design stage and reviewed periodically based on their performance.

(Paragraphs 58-60, 73-75. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; ISO 7010:2020, Graphical symbols. Safety colours and safety signs. Registered safety signs; Clause 5.4, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; Clause 9.1-9.2.6. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation).

Jewellery

Swim England. 2017. Swimming pool. Jewellery guidance. June 2017.

(Pool) Ladders (including stepladders and hand bends)

EN 13451-2:2015+A1:2020 Swimming pool equipment. Additional safety requirements and test methods for ladders, stepladders and handle bends.

Lane swimming

Aspects to consider in your risk assessment include lane width (typically 2-2.5 metres), swimmer age, swimmer activity (recreational, competitive, competition etc.), swimmer speed of travel, stroke (typically 2.5-metre+ lane width required for fly and breaststroke when swimming in a single circuit).

Swim England. 2017. A guide to lane swimming management. June 2017; EN 13451-5:2014, Swimming pool equipment. Part 5 additional specific safety requirements and test methods for lane lines and dividing lines.

Lifeguard numbers

How many lifeguards do I need to provide?

Lifeguard Zone Visibility Assessment (LZVT)

Do I need to conduct a Lifeguard Zone Visibility Test (LZVT)?

How do I conduct a Lifeguard Zone Visibility Test?

Lighting (including emergency lighting)

Operators should provide minimum and emergency illumination as informed by EN 15288-1, manufacturers' instructions, and risk assessment. EN 15288-1 provides a minimum illumination level of 100 lx for circulations routes, plant rooms, changing rooms, showers, and toilets. Lighting should be reasonably uniform to avoid shadows and reduce disorientation. The hazards of lighting go beyond its illuminance; colour, lighting transition from area to area, stroboscopic effects, suitability for the work type, shadowing, and visual fatigue are also relevant considerations.

Consideration should be given to underwater illumination in pools deeper than 1.35 metres. HSG179 also states that artificial lighting should be maintained and provisions made for replacement where it may impair pool visibility. Emergency lighting should be tested daily. Access to maintain lighting may involve working at height, and due consideration of the appropriate working at height requirements is required.

(Paragraphs 195-196. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; SLL. 2006. Sports lighting. LG04; Clause 7.7.7. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; Clause 5.7.6, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; EN 12464‑1:2014 Light and lighting. Lighting of workplaces. Part 1 indoor workplaces; EN 60598‑2‑18:1994+A1:2012, Luminaires. Part 2 particular requirements. Section 18 luminaires for swimming pools and similar applications; EN 62305‑1:2012, Protection against lightning. Part 1 general principles; EN 12193:2018. Light and lighting. Sports lighting. HSE. 1997. Lighting at work HSG38; HSE. 2013. Workplace health, safety and welfare. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. Approved Code of Practice and guidance. L24).

The maximum period of uninterrupted supervision and rotation

Effective pool supervision requires a high level of vigilance. There is no maximum period of uninterrupted supervision specified in EN 12588-2. It should be defined according to national regulations and operator risk assessment based on the factors affecting poolside supervision's performance. Any period defined should also specify rest breaks and the length of the working day.

There is no maximum period of uninterrupted supervision for those providing poolside supervision. The periods providing supervision should be controlled to ensure those providing poolside supervision can sustain competent supervision. RLSS UK recommends that:

No one on duty at the poolside for a long time can be expected to remain alert. RLSS UK recommends that you spend no longer than 60 minutes at the poolside and, in exceptional circumstances, no longer than 90 minutes in the pool hall itself.

Rotation between those providing poolside supervision may sustain competent supervision over longer periods. The operator risk assessment will determine the maximum period of uninterrupted supervision, ensuring that competent supervision is maintained throughout. This should consider personal characteristics, session type, the behaviour of pool users, the number of interventions required, distractions, and other factors that reduce an individual's ability to provide competent poolside supervision. This guidance is considered more fully in "Supervision of the swimming pool" (2020).

(Paragraphs 93-100. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 7.4.7. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; RLSS UK. Web. Maximum poolside working time and lifeguard rotation. January 2020).

Minimum competency for lifeguards

The minimum competency for a lifeguard should include the following:

a. The physical and mental suitability for the task.

b. Ability to recognise and rescue a casualty, including those with spinal cord injuries.

c. Ability to perform cardio-pulmonary resuscitation on a casualty, provide first aid, and use an AED.

d. Be trained and have completed a training course in the techniques and practices of supervision, rescue and first aid by a syllabus by or equivalent to a national qualifications awarding body.

e. Knowledge of water safety and accident prevention.

f. Competence in the safety procedure, validated by practical tests and recorded at appropriate intervals.

g. Have undergone a programme of induction before undertaking their duties, and as specified by the pool operator;

h. Participate in a programme of regular ongoing training.

No minimum age or swimming proficiency is specified. Any other person providing poolside supervision should have a level of competency informed by an operator risk assessment.

(Paragraphs 128-140. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 7.4.1 - 7.4.2. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; NICE. 2016. Spinal injury. Assessment and initial management. NG41; Pages 127-129. ERC. Cardiac arrest in special circumstances. Part 8. Chapter 12).

Mobile phones and poolside phones

RLSS UK. 2020. Guidance statement. Lifeguards, mobile phones, and smart devices. January 2020.

Mono-fins/mermaid tails

Mono-fins bind both feet and lower legs inside a single fin.

(Planet Mermaid. Web. Planet Mermaid rules are designed to keep you and others safe whilst having excellent fun. Available at Link accessed 23 January 2021; Fin Fun. Web. Mermaid tail safety. Available at Link accessed 23 January 2021; EN 71-1:2014+A1:2018. Safety of toys. Mechanical and physical properties; RLSS UK. Web. The nation's mini-mermaids and sharks are set to benefit from FIN2FIT's partnership with the UK's drowning prevention charity. Available at: link accessed 23 January 2021; RLSS Western Australia. 2018. Mermaid tail and fin products. Available at: link accessed 23 January 2021; STA. 2020. STA and Mermaids UK launch the industry's first regulated qualification for mermaid and mono-fin swimming. Available at link accessed 23 January 2021; Mini-mermaids. Web. Available at link accessed 23 January 2021; RLSS Australia. Mermaid tails & monofins. Fact Sheet 30; IOS. 2019. Institute of Swimming and Fin2Fit collaborate to deliver children's mono-fin mermaid and shark lessons. Available from link accessed 23 January 2021).

Moveable floors and booms

Moveable floors and booms may provide weaker swimmers access to deep water, particularly children. Water may collect and fail to drain from the surface, increasing the slip hazard they present, especially where thorough cleaning is not properly carried out. Some floors and booms may cause a shadow effect or obscure visibility, requiring allocated lifeguard positions to be adjusted. Particular care should be taken if drowning detection systems are used in pools with moveable floors.

Electronic depth signage may be deployed instead of static signage where moveable floors are present. Audible alarms may be considered to alert users when the moveable floor or boom is moving. Typically, users will not be permitted to use the pool whilst these pool depth or length changes are made. Care should be taken to consider the confusion caused to pool users by the changing dimensions of the pool. Information, signage, communication, and supervision are key risk mitigation measures to ensure pool users are aware and understand the hazard presented by changes to pool dimensions. Language barriers should be considered carefully in light of the additional communication hazard presented by those for whom English is a second language.

(Paragraphs 172-173. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; EN 13451-11:2014, Swimming pool equipment. Part 11 additional specific safety requirements and test methods for moveable pool floors and moveable bulkheads).

New and expectant mothers, adoption, and surrogacy

Once notified by the employee that they are pregnant, have given birth within the last six months, or are breastfeeding, the employer must conduct a risk assessment to ensure the employee's safety. Consideration should be given to MHSWR 1999, WHSWR 1992, and Equality Act 2010 when completing that risk assessment.

Consideration should also be given to customers who are new or expectant mothers who may wish to breastfeed whilst using the facilities. Advice on equality law is available from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

When you take time off to adopt a child or have a child through a surrogacy arrangement, you might be eligible for Statutory Adoption Leave and Statutory Adoption Pay. For an overview of your rights, see the guidance from ACAS and HMG via the links below.

(Swim England. Web. Risk assessment for new and expectant mothers. June 2017; Swim England. Web. Advice on teaching whilst pregnant. June 2017; Regulation 16-18, The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999; The Workplace Health, Safety, and Welfare Regulations 1992; Equality Act 2010; HSE. 2013. New and expectant mothers who work. A brief guide to your health and safety. INDG373; EHRC. Web. Managing pregnancy and maternity in the workplace; Swim England. 2017. Advice on swimming teaching whilst pregnant. June 2017; ACAS. Web. Your adoption leave, pay and other rights; HMG. Web. Adoption rights, pay and leave; HMG. Web. Statutory Adoption Pay and Leave: employer guide; HMG. Web. Surrogacy: legal rights of parents and surrogates).

Noise

Indoor swimming pools can experience high sound pressure levels which exceed 85 dB(A). Guidance is provided in EN 15288-1, but the HSE guidance is generally more detailed and provides a better base for those pools in England, Wales, and Scotland. HSENI provides similar, less detailed guidance.

(Clause 5.7.7.1-5.7.7.3. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; HSE. 2005. Controlling noise at work. L108; HSE. 2008. Sound advice. Control of noise at work in music and entertainment. HSG260; HSE. 2012. Noise at work. A brief guide to controlling the risks. INDG362, revision 2; HSE; HSE. 2012. Noise, Don't lose your hearing. INDG 363, revision 2).

Non-swimmer areas

"Non-swimming areas" have a water depth of <= 1.35 metres. Abrupt changes of depth are not permitted. The area should have a gradient of <=10%. A minimum "A" slip rating is required in areas with a water depth of 0.8-1.35 metres and a "B" Rating in areas <0.8 metres. Changes in inclination should be colour contrasting and given a pool floor of a different tactile quality to alert the user to the change in depth.

Non-swimming areas connected to swimming areas should be marked on the pool floor by a clear visible line. Where a floating lane line is used, it should be positioned at least 1 metre before the end of the non-swimmer area.

(Clause 5.8.3.2.1 and 5.8.3.2.3, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design)

(Pool) Occupancy

There are different occupancy calculations in circulation within the sector. The pool occupancy calculation used by pool plant operators assesses the capability of the plant equipment to maintain safe water quality. The pool occupancy calculation used by pool safety practitioners is set out in EN 15288-1 and 2 and combines objective and subjective criteria. The pool's type, design, supervision provided, intended use, the needs of users, the age of the pool users, the area of the pool surround, and accident performance data should all be considered when defining the appropriate safety occupancy for your pool. Event and fire management guidance sets out more detailed directions which could be used to overcome more challenging pool conditions.

HSG179 provides some starting points for pool occupancy, mainly based on the 3 m²per pool user (para 68) set out in an old edition of EN 15288-1, which has been superseded and removed. You may select to rely on 3 m²as a starting point and then take account of various safety factors before making the appropriate adjustment in your risk assessment.

(Clause 7.2.1-7.2.2. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; Paragraph 66. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition).

Octopush and underwater hockey

(BOA. 2008. Controlled risks form. Version 1.2; CMAS. 2019. Championships organization procedures & obligations. BOD 205; CMAS. 2018. Coaching framework. Vol 1; CMAS. 2018. Volume 1. Playing area requirements. Version 11; CMAS. 2018. Volume 2. International rules for underwater hockey. Version 11; CMAS.

Ongoing (refresher) training

The competency of employers and employees is critical to mitigating the effect of actions or omissions which cause injury to another. Everyone in the workplace should therefore value the important role and risk mitigation competent staff provide, alongside the benefits which arise from qualified, confident employees who serve your customers.

There is no specified frequency for ongoing training in HSG179 or EN 15288. However, some aspects of guidance recommend defined frequencies for the continuous training of those providing poolside supervision, namely CPR, AED, and spinal injury management. The main requirements of continuing training are contained in EN15288-2 and HSG179.

EN 15288-2 states that ongoing training should be recorded at appropriate intervals. Lifeguards should practise their techniques as often as is necessary to maintain competency. HSG179 provides minimum content of continuing training in Paragraph 146. This includes the need to be site-specific and respond to the performance of employees who attend the training.

Trainers should ensure they are not coaching staff through the assessment elements of ongoing training but instead focus on designing a programme that addresses the root cause of the individual's competency maintenance needs. Duties should be suitably restricted and supervised until competency has been re-acquired and demonstrated. A sample ongoing training programme can be obtained from the RLSS UK and STA via the links below. These should be adapted to accommodate all the elements of the health and safety management system, which rely on the competency of your employees as a risk mitigation measure. A one-size-fits-all approach may or may not be sufficient for a single site or across a group of sites; your employee's performance in ongoing training will inform your decisions about the frequency of activity and whether specific individuals need more frequent training. These needs may change over time, so you need to monitor the results of your employees.

You should include the provider/trainer of ongoing training and your own needs as part of your approach to the competency of your team. Management should monitor the training provider of ongoing training periodically (as defined by the operator) to ensure the training and assessment are carried out according to your ongoing training programme.

Resuscitation UK acknowledges that it is widely accepted that skills decay within three to six months after initial training relying on a CPR training effectiveness 2010 study by Soar et al. Frequent “low-dose” training may improve CPR skills compared with conventional training strategies. Resus UK supports blended approaches to training, including skills and knowledge top-up via online or e-learning, providing practical skills are adequately assessed.

(Paragraphs 129, 136, 139-146, 277. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 7.4.6. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; RLSS UK. Web. Sample ongoing training and competency assessment for pool lifeguards. Available at: https://www.rlss.org.uk/hsg179 accessed 17th January 2021; STA. Web. Online learning. Available at: https://www.safetytrainingawards.co.uk/online-learning/ accessed 17th January 2021; Section 4-5. Resuscitation Council UK. 2014. Guidelines for education and implementation of resuscitation. Available at: https://www.resus.org.uk/library/2015-resuscitation-guidelines/education-and-implementation-resuscitation accessed 19th January 2021).

Organisation chart (organigram)

EN 15288-2 provides that the PSOP should include an organization chart including lines of authority, responsibilities, and the function of those involved in pool safety. This is sometimes called an "organigram".

(Clause 5.3. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation).

PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act)

The PDCA approach is included in Clause 5 of EN 15288-2:2018. If you use ISO 45001:2018 as the basis of your Occupational Health and Safety Management System, it is the same approach utilized there and across the HLS (Annex SL), HSG65 and INDG417. If you are a pool operator, you should incorporate the principles of PDCA into your pool safety management approach. There is no requirement to structure any part of your PSOP or management arrangements using PDCA, but many operators do.

(Clause 5.1-5.5.5. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; HSE. 2013. Managing for your health and safety. HSG65, third edition; HSE. 2013. Leading health and safety at work. Actions for directors, board members, business owners and organisations of all sizes. INDG417, revision 1; HSE. 2013. Plan, Do, Check, Act. An introduction to managing for health and safety. INDG275, revision 1).

Play equipment (non-inflatable)

(PWTAG. 2019. Notes on the hygiene of pool play equipment. TN29; EN ISO 25649-1:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Classification, materials, general requirements and test methods; EN ISO 25649-2:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Consumer information; EN ISO 25649-3:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for Class A devices; EN ISO 25649-4:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for Class B devices; EN ISO 25649-5:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for Class C devices; EN ISO 25649-6:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for Class D devices; EN ISO 25649-7:2017. Floating leisure articles for use on and in the water. Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for Class E devices).

Pool basin edge markings

The "pool basin edge" is where the pool surround meets the pool basin. The pool basin edge should be marked in a contrasting colour on a deck-level pool. On pool basins with freeboards, the pool basin edge should be distinguishable from the pool surround.

Water depths markings hall be visually indicated by figures of height >= 70 mm and in a contrasting colour, visible by those on the pool surround intending to enter the pool basin. These markings should also be visible to those in the water. Depth markings should be placed at the access point to the pool to mark the minimum and maximum depth of the pool in the middle of uniform sloping pools and where the pool profile changes abruptly to a depth greater than 1.35 metres.

(Clause 5.4, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design).

Pool basin, handgrips, and handrails

The "pool basin" is the water tank where water-related activities occur. Deck-level pools should have a gripping system for users to grip the edge. This should be at least 15 mm deep and 20 mm wide. Freeboard pools should have a handgrip but may choose to use a handrail. The requirements for handrails are set out in EN 13451-1.

(Paragraphs 224-227. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 5.8.2. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; Clause 3.7 EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; EN 13451-1:2020. Swimming pool equipment. General safety requirements and test methods for equipment installed in pools for public use).

Pool covers

Pool covers present advantages and risks. Operators should carry out a risk assessment considering EN 15288-1 and the manufacturer's guidance. There is no requirement to install pool covers.

(Clause 5.10. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; PWTAG. 2020. Swimming pool covers operation and safety. TN48).

Pool design

Sport England provides a range of guidance on physical pool design, which may also be helpful when carrying out a significant refurbishment of the pool. The FINA design standards (located under "Diving") and EN 15288-1 should also be consulted.

(Paragraphs 218-223, 233-235. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Sport England. 2013. Swimming pools. Design guidance note, revision 4; Sport England. 2013. Appendix 1. Pool types and technical design issues. Appendix 1, revision 4; Sport England. 2013. Servicing the building. Appendix 2, revision 4; Sport England. 2013. Construction and specification considerations. Appendix 3, revision 4; Sport England. 2013. Improvement and alterations to existing swimming pools. Appendix 4, revision 4; Sport England. 2013. Further information. Appendix 5, revision 4; Sport England. 2011. Swimming pool design audit checklist. 2nd revision; EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; Swim England. Design guidance. Deck level swimming pools and raised ends. February 2017; PWTAG. 2019. Balance tank design for deck-level pools. Technical note 32).

Pool equipment and water features

(EN 13451-1:2020, Swimming pool equipment — Part 1: General safety requirements and test methods; PWTAG. 2019. Interactive water features. TN13).

Pool parties

The hazards and guidance related to pool parties will depend on the activities inside and outside the pool. RLSS Australia has produced a short fact sheet specifically on pool parties which may provide an introduction to the issues to consider.

(RLSS Australia. Children's pool party safety. Fact sheet 28).

(Constant) Poolside supervision

What is constant poolside supervision?

Pool surround

A "pool surround" is the walkable area around a pool basin associated with using it. EN 15288-1 specifies Type 1 and Type 2 pools comply with the minimum pool surround dimensions listed in Table 2; for Type 3 pools, Table 2 is recommended values. Generally, a 3-metre pool surround is to be provided. This should be adjusted based on any activities or alternative uses of the pool surround, such as the positioning of chairs and/or sunbeds. The primary purpose of these requirements is to ensure visibility and access to the pool are not impeded, especially where a rescue is required.

(Clause 5.8.1 and Table 2, EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation).

Pool type

EN 15288-2 specifies a classification system which involves three swimming pool types:

Type 1: Pool where the water-related activities are the main business (e.g. communal pools, leisure pools, water parks) and whose use is “public” according to 3.4.

Type 2: Pool is an additional service to the main business (e.g. hotel pools, campsite pools, club pools, therapeutic pools, school pools) whose use is “public”, according to 3.4.

Type 3: All public use pools according to 3.4 except Type 1 and Type 2 pools.

This approach is adopted in the HSE publication Managing Safety in Swimming Pools (HSG179).

(Clause 4.1-4.3. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; Paragraph 8. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition).

Pool and spa water

The effectiveness of pool water distribution should be evaluated according to the dye test specified in Annex A (EN 15288-1). HSG282 is a good starting point for spa water safety guidance. PWTAG provides a Code of Practice, a book called Swimming pool water treatment and quality standards for pools and spas (2017) and a range of guidance notes on the following areas (others are listed under their relevant topic area):

Sport England provides in Appendix 2 of its Design Note Guidance further guidance on servicing the building (2013). More detailed guidance on legionella can be found in the main bodies, which include: the Water Management Society (WMS), the Chartered Institute of Building Service Engineers (CIBSE), and Legionella Control Association (LCA). The WMS provides a focussed legionella specialist training pathway widely adopted in the UK. Guidance on pool water testing and training is available from various bodies in the sector. We will detail the contents of a Pool Technical Operational Procedures (PTOP) on another page.

(Paragraphs 236-239, 260-261, 263-269, 283. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 6. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; PWTAG. 2019. Code of practice. The management and treatment of swimming pool water; PWTAG. 2017. Swimming pool water treatment and quality standards for pools and spas. 3rd edition; HSE. 2018. Control of legionella and other infectious agents in spa-pool systems. HSG282; HSE. 2013. Legionnaires' disease. The control of legionella bacteria in water systems. Approved code of practice. L8, fourth edition; HSE. 2014. Legionnaires' disease. Technical guidance. HSG274, parts 1, 2, and 3; Sport England. 2013. Servicing the building (Appendix 2, revision 4).

Pressure equipment/systems

There are requirements for the design, construction, installation and operation of pressure equipment used, for example, in the pool’s heating system. More information is available from the HSE on pressure equipment and systems.

(Paragraph 191. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; HSE. 2014. Safety of pressure systems. Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000. Approved Code of Practice and guidance on Regulations. L122; HSE. 2014. Pressure systems. A brief guide to safety. INDG261, revision 2; HSE. 2012. Written schemes of examination. Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000. INDG178, revision 2).

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

(Paragraphs 253, 255. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; EN ISO 13688:2013, Protective clothing. General requirements; EN ISO 374-1:2016+A1:2018, Protective gloves against dangerous chemicals and micro-organisms. Part 1 Terminology and performance requirements for chemical risks; HSE. 2015. Personal protective equipment at work. L25, third edition; HSE. 2013. Personal protective equipment at work. A brief guide. INDG174, revision 2).

Public use

A pool is for "public use" if it is not designated solely for the owners'/proprietor/operator's family and guests independently from paying an entrance fee.

(Clause 3.5. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation).

Rapids and (slow and fast) rivers

Consideration should be given by operators in their risk assessment to access controls, the effect of increased water flow rates on weaker swimmers, and the reduced visibility presented by faster-flowing water.

(Paragraphs 167-169. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition).

Risk assessment

Is my risk assessment suitable and sufficient?

How do I implement my risk assessment?

What should I prepare to review a risk assessment?

What do I need to review a risk assessment and how?

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

(Paragraphs 256-259. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; HSE. 2013. Respiratory protective equipment at work. A practical guide. HSG53, fourth edition; EN 1146:2005, Respiratory protective devices. Self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus incorporating a hood for escape. Requirements, testing, marking; EN ISO 16972:2020 Respiratory protective devices. Vocabulary and graphical symbols; EN 133:2001, Respiratory protective devices. Classification; EN 134, Respiratory protective devices. Nomenclature of components; EN 135:1999, Respiratory protective devices. List of equivalent terms; EN 143:2000, Respiratory protective devices. Particle filters. Requirements, testing, marking; EN 170:2002, Personal eye-protection. Ultraviolet filters. Transmittance requirements and recommended use; EN 12083:1998, Respiratory protective devices. Filters with breathing hoses, (Non-mask mounted filters). Particle filters, gas filters, and combined filters. Requirements, testing, marking; EN 12941:1998+A2:2008, Respiratory protective devices. Powered filtering devices incorporating a helmet or a hood. Requirements, testing, marking)

Slip resistance

The HSE testing approach and guidance exceed the standard required by EN 15288-1 and should be preferred. Table 1 in EN 15288-1 shows examples of typical pool surfaces and a potentially appropriate level of slip resistance. The HSE's slip potential model sets out factors which cause people to slip and extend beyond the floor's physical slip resistance. Special care should be taken in swimming pools to note the lighting and handrail requirements for wet floors, especially in dimly lit areas such as hotel, club and spa pools. Matting is not a panacea for reducing slip accidents and should be carefully risk assessed, implemented, and monitored. The role of signage, congestion, footwear, and direction of travel are also essential elements of consideration. Weather should also be considered where the pool is accessed via an external entrance or outdoors. Staff footwear should be considered by reference to the HSE's GRIP tool.

EN 15288-2 includes an example of a slip assessment. You should design your slip risk assessment to meet the HSE guidelines, which will typically mean exceeding what is contained in EN 15288-2.

See special rules for "Non-swimmer areas."

(Paragraph 230. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 5.6.2-, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; BS 7976-1:2002+A1:2013. Pendulum testers. Specification; BS 7976-2:2002+A1:2013. Pendulum testers. Method of operation; BS 7976-3:2002+A1:2013. Pendulum testers. Method of calibration; EN ISO 13287:2019. Personal protective equipment. Footwear. Test method for slip resistance; EN ISO 20345:2011. Personal protective equipment. Safety footwear; EN ISO 20346:2014. Personal protective equipment. Protective footwear; EN ISO 20347:2012. Personal protective equipment. Occupational footwear; BS 8445:2012. Bath and shower mats. Testing. Assessment of slip resistance properties; BS 5385-3:2014. Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of internal and external ceramic and mosaic floor tiling in normal conditions. Code of practice; ISO 13007-2:2013. Ceramic tiles. Grouts and adhesives. Test methods for adhesives; BS 4592-0:2006+A1:2012; Flooring, stair treads and handrails for industrial use. Common design requirements and recommendations for installation; EN 14837:2006. Surfaces for sports areas. Determination of slip resistance; EN 16837:2018. Surfaces for sports areas. Determination of linear shoe/surface friction; DIN 51097:1992. Determination of anti-slip properties. Wet loaded barefoot areas. Walking method. Ramp test; HM Government. 2013. The Building Regulations 2010. Protection from falling, collision, and impact. Approved Document K; HSE. 2012. Assessing the slip resistance of flooring. A technical information sheet. GEIS2; HSE. 2013. Workplace, health, safety, and welfare. ACOP. L24, second edition; HSE. Web. GRIP ratings for slip resistance footwear. Link; HSE. 2007. Slips and trips mapping tool. An aid for safety representatives. Link. HSE. 2005. Slips and trips. The importance of floor cleaning information sheet. MISC691; HSE. 2005. Preventing slips and trips at work. INDG225, revision 1).

Spa pool

Poolside supervision of spa pools is not typically required. Common hazards arising from spa pools include drowning, legionella, litter and sharps, and misbehaviour/consumption of alcohol (where prohibited). Advice on pool water in spa pools is available from PWTAG (see "Pool Water").

(Paragraph 12, 174-175. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; HSE. 2018. Control of legionella and other infectious agents in spa-pool systems. HSG282; PWTAG. 2018. Hot tubs for business. 1st edition).

Starting and diving platforms

Access to starting and diving platforms should be carefully controlled. FINA provides standards for the physical design factors of starting and diving platforms.

(Paragraph 158. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; EN 13451-4:2014, Swimming pool equipment. Part 4 additional specific safety requirements and test methods for starting platforms; EN 13451-10:2018, Swimming pool equipment. Part 10 additional specific safety requirements and test methods for diving platforms, diving springboards and associated equipment).

Steps and ramps

Step height should remain below or equal to 250 mm and meet national standards. Ramps should have an inclination of less than 8% and a slip-resistant finish.

Where built-in recessed steps are used in pools, they should have handle bends by EN 13451-2, steps at least 250mm deep, spaced vertically by at least 140 mm. Where built-in pool ladders are installed, they should meet EN 13451-2. Where pool ramp entries are used, they should have a slip resistance "C" Rating. Where the pool is used for competition purposes, the steps, ramps or ladders should not interfere with the swimming lanes.

(Paragraphs 167, 225, 228-229. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 5.7.3.1 and 5.8.3.3, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design; HM Government. 2013. The Building Regulations 2010. Protection from falling, collision, and impact. Approved Document K).

Sun protection (glasses, cream, clothing, hydration)

(ISO 12312-1:2013+A1:2015, Eye and face protection. Sunglasses and related eyewear. Part 1 sunglasses for general use; HSE. 2019. Keep your top on. Health risks from working in the sun. INDG147; HSE. 1998. Sun protection. INDG337, revision 1; Cancer research. Web. Sun, UV, and cancer. Live webpage).

Surfaces

To avoid puddling, all wet surfaces should be laid to reduce slip risk and unhygienic conditions. The inclination should be towards the drain. Inclinations above 3% should pay special attention to slip resistance. Abrupt changes in level should be avoided.

(Paragraphs 230-231. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Clause 5.6.1, EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design).

Swimming areas

Swimming areas are those with a water depth of >1.35 metres. Rest ledges should be considered where water is >=1.4 metres deep. Requirements for rest ledges are set out in Clause 5.8.3.3.

(Clause 5.8.3.2.2 and 5.8.3.3. EN 15288-1:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 1 safety requirements for design).

Swimming lessons

The operator risk assessment will determine the appropriate number of pupils per teacher. Various factors should be considered, such as the teacher's competency, the swimming ability and needs of the pupils, the water temperature and other factors. Swim England has published a guidance document called Safe Supervision in swimming pools (web) which sets out a recognised approach to ratios in swimming lesson environments and can be accessed via the link below.

Where swimming lessons are provided to under 5s in early years settings (EYFS, 2014), the DoE have a statutory code of practice specifying teacher-to-pupil ratios. Care should be taken to review this guidance. Where EYFS and the Swim England guidance apply, the smaller ratio should be applied.

Swim England (2017) provide guidance on swimming teacher maximum working time to ensure the concentration and safety of those they are responsible for:

"A series of three 2¼-hour sessions with three 15-minute breaks would ensure swimming teacher workers and their customers are not put at risk. Other combinations may be of equal validity.

Working periods of over 2½ hours on the poolside are probably excessive even when the type of swimming lesson requires low input and the pool hall environment is benign and the lesson structures should allow for at least one short break."

Swim England (2017) also provides guidance on the responsibilities of operators, teachers and coaches for children using the changing rooms before, during and after their lessons.

(Paragraphs 102-104. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; PAS 81:2011. Specification for the management of a swimming school; DoE .2017. Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage. Setting the standards for learning, development and care from birth to five. EYFS 2014; The Early Years Foundation Stage (Learning and Development Requirements) Order 2007; Swim England. Web. Safe supervision in swimming pools. Available at: https://www.swimming.org/swimengland/worker-health-and-safety accessed 17th January 2021; STA. 2014. Guidelines on Swimming Teaching Where the Teacher is in the Water. June 2014; STA. 2016. Baby swimming policy. April 2016; Swim England. 2017. How long should a Swimming Teacher work on the poolside without a break? June 2017; Swim England. 2017. Supervision of swimming club children in changing areas. June 2017; Swim England. 2017. Teaching in the water and the handling of children. June 2017).

Third-party hirer

Third-party use in the swimming pool

Tumble turns

Swim England provide guidance on the risks, appropriate water depth, and pool features which can improve the safety of those performing a tumble turn in programmed sessions. There is no equivalent benchmark for unprogrammed sessions with the same risks.

"Adult elite swimmers will find it harder to execute a tumble turn in 0.9-metres of water depth, whereas young children between approximately 8 years and 12 years will find they have much more room for manoeuvre in 0.9-metres of water even though their skill is less.

So although there is some general guidance that indicates that tumble turns are generally
performed (and learned) in 0.9-metres of water and above, a risk assessment can decide that younger children can learn to perform tumble turns in lesser depths; this is comparable with children learning to do somersaults and other water skills in equivalent lesser depths down to 0.75-metres in learner pools. Conversely, older Masters Swimmers returning to swimming or starting to swim regularly may require greater depths than 0.9 metres to learn to tumble turn safely.

Finally, tumble turns should always be taught off a raised end rather than a deck level pool edge to minimise the risk of ‘over swimming’ the end or miscalculating where the end of the pool is."

(Swim England. 2017. Guidance on the performance of tumble turns. June 2017).

Turning boards

EN 13451-6:2001, Swimming pool equipment. Part 6 additional specific safety requirements and test methods for turning boards.

Unsupervised pool

An "unsupervised pool" is one where poolside supervision is not provided. A swimming pool is inherently dangerous, posing a significant risk of death or serious injury. HSG179 acknowledges this. Where a pool is unsupervised, the legal standard expected towards your employees and non-employees remains the same. You will need to identify other controls to ensure that your employees and non-employees are not exposed to risks to their health and safety.

You will need to demonstrate that the controls you have put in place effectively prevent pool users from being exposed to risks to their health and safety. The more removed your controls are from the sector's standard practice, the greater the evidence you will need to discharge your responsibilities. Following the standard practice (or guidance) in the sector does not guarantee compliance with the law, but it is a good starting point.

Pool users should be informed the pool is unsupervised, depth markings should be displayed, and means of summoning emergency assistance and rescue equipment should be provided. In the event of a person in difficulty, a designated person with appropriate skills should be on-call to respond immediately and deal with any emergency.

(Clause 7.5. EN 15288-2:2018 Swimming pools for public use. Part 2 safety requirements for operation; Paragraph 112-115. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition).

Water polo goals

EN 13451-7:2001, Swimming pool equipment. Part 7 additional specific safety requirements and test methods for water polo goals.

Waterslides

A guide to waterslide landing type requirements

Research Summary: Waterslide Safety

Audit Focus: Waterslides

Young people (children and work experience)

A young person is anyone under 18 years old. A child is anyone who has not yet reached the official minimum school leaving age, typically on or just after their 16th birthday. Workers are at particular risk in the first six months of the job. Swim England provides a sample approach to the risk assessment of young workers, which you can access via the link below.

(Paragraph 104. HSE. 2013. Young people and work experience. A guide to health and safety for employers. INDG364, revision 1; Paragraph 61-65. HSE. 2018. Health and safety in swimming pools. HSG179, 4th edition; Swim England. Web. Risk assessment of young people at work. Available at: https://www.swimming.org/swimengland/worker-health-and-safety accessed 17th January 2021).

Citation: Jacklin, D. 2023. The pool safety guidance index. Water Incident Research Hub, 21 January 2021; updated 21 July.

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