As the operator/manager of a campus pool, you have the need to handle the swimming pool maintenance tasks required.
Outsource Swimming Pool Maintenance
Some facilities have decided it is easier to outsource these tasks by hiring a pool service company to take care of maintenance responsibilities. If you have a small pool, this may be an efficient option. These service companies can also provide you with expertise and knowledge that can be helpful to you when operating your pool.
However, keep in mind service companies cannot be onsite around the clock. It’s essential your staff be as knowledgeable about pool operating procedures as possible. If an accident occurs at your facility, you may be held responsible whether or not your staff was onsite operating the facility.
Meet Pool Standards
The health department — in most states — requires you have a permit in order to operate a swimming pool. In addition, you need to ensure your pool/hot tub/facility meets all aspects of the health code at all times. If your pool is open to the public, you are must meet all standards of facility operations for:
- Cleanliness
- Turnover
- Flow
- Water chemistry
- Water clarity
Your onsite staff needs to be trained in all operating procedures. Having a service company does not take away the responsibility of the pool operator or owner.
How Pool Service Companies Can Help
A pool service company can be a big help with some of the basic chores part of operating a pool. A clean, healthy swimming pool facility is a positive reflection on your operations and the professionalism of the aquatics industry. With all the press and social media outlets for communication today, it is important to be aware and stay ahead of these issues.
If you have a specific product you need to repair or replace, the service providers can fix, replace or install it for you. Those providers know a lot about commercial pools. They can offer some perspective on what other pool operators are doing to solve problems at facilities like yours. Dealers and distributors of commercial swimming pool supplies and chemicals are also a resource for new technologies and products to help you solve your facility needs.
Get Certified
Around the country, many health departments now require pool operators be certified in order to operate a commercial swimming pool. Many commercial pool companies and organizations offer nationally-recognized pool operator training programs, such as the Certified Pool and Spa Operators Training Class offered by the Pool & Hot Tub Association and the Aquatic Facility Operator Training Class offered by the National Recreation and Park Association.
Commercial swimming pool facilities are very unique and only qualified people should manage and maintain them.
Charlie Luecker is the director of commercial sales for Lincoln Aquatics and can be reached at cluecker@lincolnaquatics.com or by phone at 800.223.5450.
