Training makes a difference
Trained pool operators can make a difference. In the first course this season, most students in attendance had never taken a pool operator class. They knew a pool existed in their place of employment; however, they had little to no knowledge of how to operate it or why it was necessary to meet certain standards.
The students came from a variety of backgrounds, including power engineering, fitness instructors and general maintenance personnel. Students recognized they needed more information on pool operation, some because their facility was closed by a public health inspector and some simply because pool operation was part of their job description.
All were eager to learn, and there were many ‘Aha’ moments over the course of the two-day training program. In fact, one comment, which occurred partway through the first morning, stuck out the most. The student said “You mean I don’t need to use shock every day?”
After completing the program, students (i.e. pool operators) left more confident in their ability to maintain an aquatic facility and be certain all standards were being met. And, as a result, public health inspectors have also reported an improvement in the inspection and operation of the facilities whose operators have been trained.
Trained health inspectors
To improve the skills of Alberta’s public health inspectors—both in a training setting and during aquatic facility inspections—the province turned to the National Swimming Pool Foundation’s (NSPF’s) Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) instructor program.
Since January, public health inspectors across the province have been teaching the course and have received positive feedback from students.
A properly operating aquatic facility is an enjoyable experience for the user and has many health benefits. Training on the importance of physical cleanliness, chemical balance and biological safety can prevent RWIs and ensure the aquatic facility provides a safe and healthy experience for all.
Jacquie Schnider has been a Canadian public health inspector for more than 25 years. She is one of 18 inspectors from Alberta who are National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) authorized instructors. She can be reached via e-mail at jacqueline.schnider@albertahealthservices.ca.
