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Planning for the Future: Building a Safer, Stronger Aquatic Facility
Running a successful aquatic facility isn’t just about managing day-to-day operations—it’s about planning ahead. Proactive strategies help prevent costly surprises and keep your facility running safely and efficiently for years to come. From tracking industry trends to maintaining equipment and investing in staff, here are key areas to focus on when planning for your pool’s future.
- Stay Ahead of Aquatics Industry Trends
Regulations and best practices in the aquatics industry are constantly evolving. Two critical areas every facility should prioritize are turbidity and VGBA compliance.
- Turbidity: Clear water is essential for safety, not just aesthetics. High turbidity can obscure swimmers in distress and lead to failed health inspections.
- VGBA Compliance: Staying compliant with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) is essential for preventing dangerous suction entrapment incidents. Don’t wait until your next inspection—review your drain covers, safety devices, and circulation systems now to ensure compliance.
- Proactively Manage Pool Maintenance
Small issues can quickly escalate if left unaddressed. Aging equipment, leaks, and malfunctioning components can affect water quality, raise energy costs, and create safety hazards.
- Develop a maintenance checklist: Regularly inspect equipment and address problems promptly.
- Take action: If something isn’t working properly, repair it, replace it, or schedule a service call. Delaying repairs often results in costly downtime, emergency expenses, or worse.
- Keep Your Staff Trained and Engaged
Your team is your first line of defense in maintaining a safe facility. Ensure your staff members are not only Certified Pool Operators (CPOs) but also staying up-to-date with ongoing education.
- Encourage advanced training: Programs like Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS), Certified Service Technician (CST), and Certified Pool Inspector (CPI) provide valuable skills.
- Build ownership: Involve your staff in planning and maintenance to foster pride and accountability.
Conclusion
A successful aquatic facility isn’t built overnight, and it won’t stay that way without intentional planning. By staying informed, maintaining equipment, and investing in your people, you’re building a foundation for long-term safety and success. The future of your pool starts today—ensure it’s in good hands.