The first UK guidance for the use of automated monitoring and detection systems in public lifeguarded swimming pools has launched to help operators select and use assisted lifeguard technology to provide additional safety and support lifeguards to save lives.
Developed in conjunction with leading pool safety experts, the guidance UK Swimming Pool Operator Guidance for Automated Monitoring and Detection systems in public lifeguarded swimming pools is endorsed by CIMSPA, RLSS UK, Swim England and ukactive.
Automated monitoring and detection systems are designed to support and alert lifeguards so they can quickly identify and respond to a developing emergency. Until now, there has been limited information for operators using or looking to install this technology to adopt a blended lifeguard approach to pool supervision.
“Automated monitoring and detection systems are here to stay, but with technology developing and new systems emerging, many operators are unsure which systems are suitable for use and how to progress. We wanted to provide comprehensive guidance in this area specifically developed for swimming pool operators by leading industry specialists and endorsed by the sector,” says pool safety expert Andy Read, who coordinated the project.
These specialists include expert witnesses, water safety professionals, operators, swimming pool designers, legal specialists, technology providers and health and safety consultants.
Aimed at swimming pools which are constantly lifeguarded, the document provides guidance about the performance and design elements that operators should consider when installing and operating automated monitoring and detection systems.
The guidance has been 18 months in development and will be formally reviewed yearly by independent swimming pool experts and representatives from the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) and Swim England, in addition to operators using monitoring and surveillance technology. Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), RLSS UK, Swim England and ukactive will collectively consult and agree on any changes to the guidance as a result of these reviews.
Tara Dillon, CEO of CIMSPA, said: “We welcome this new guidance, which will assist operators in embracing innovation in detection and prevention technologies so they can work smarter and more effectively with their lifeguarding staff.”
Jo Talbot, Commercial Director of RLSS UK, said: “We are delighted to support the industry with this new guidance for public lifeguarded swimming pools. Technologies that enhance safety and support lifeguards should be embraced and this guidance is a huge step forward for the industry.
It will provide an invaluable resource for operators, giving them the confidence to consider the use of technology and select a system suitable for their facility.”
Richard Lamburn, Head of Facilities at Swim England, said: “We are pleased to have supported the development of this industry guidance. We believe the utilisation of technology can aid in safety improvements and increase the consumer experience of swimmers. We hope the guidance will be an informative resource for those operating and designing facilities in the future.”
Pete Wells, Head of Standards and Risk at ukactive, said: “Working in collaboration with our sector partners, we want to ensure the latest technology can be, confidently, utilised to support our nation’s pools in delivering their essential role. This guidance provides clear and comprehensive recommendations to swimming pool operators that will help maintain the safety of swimmers across the UK.”
The guidance is available at https://www.rlss.org.uk/safety-guidance.
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