WSM Week 5- Essential Training for Pool Operators

1. Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO®)

• Overview: The CPO® certification is the foundational program for pool and spa operators, providing essential knowledge on pool operations, water chemistry, and safety.
• Ideal For: New and experienced pool operators.
• Format: In-person or virtual instructor-led courses.
• Key Topics:
  • Water chemistry and balancing.
  • Pool circulation and filtration systems.
  • Safety and risk management.
  • Regulatory compliance.
• Certification: Requires passing a standardized exam.

More information on Vivo’s Certified Pool & Spa Operator Certification

2. Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Specialist (CMS®)

• Overview: The CMS® program is designed for individuals new to the pool industry or those focusing on routine maintenance tasks.
• Ideal For: Entry-level maintenance personnel and pool service route workers.
• Format: On-demand, self-paced online course or instructor-led sessions.
• Key Topics:
  • Safety and health protocols.
  • Pool circulation and filtration.
  • Water quality and chemistry.
  • Electrical components and heaters.
  • Customer service and legal considerations.
• Certification: Completion of the course and passing the CMS® exam.

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3. Certified Pool & Spa Service Technician (CST®)

• Overview: The CST® certification is for experienced service technicians aiming to deepen their technical knowledge and troubleshooting skills.
• Ideal For: Technicians with at least 2 years of industry experience.
• Format: On-demand online course or instructor-led sessions.
• Key Topics:
  • Advanced water quality management.
  • Circulation, filtration, and hydraulics.
  • Electrical systems and pump motors.
  • Heaters and optional equipment.
  • Control systems and maintenance practices.
• Certification: Completion of the course and passing the CST® exam.

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4. Certified Pool & Spa Inspector (CPI®)

• Overview: The CPI® program equips professionals with the knowledge to conduct thorough pool and spa inspections, ensuring safety and compliance.
• Ideal For: Health officials, environmental health specialists, and experienced pool operators.
• Format: On-demand online course or instructor-led sessions.
• Key Topics:
  • Inspection procedures and code compliance.
  • Circulation system evaluation.
  • VGB Act compliance.
  • Recreational water illnesses.
  • Recordkeeping and operational best practices.
• Certification: Completion of the course and passing the CPI® exam.

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5. Certified Service Professional (CSP®)

• Overview: The CSP® certification is the pinnacle for service professionals, demonstrating a high level of expertise and commitment to the industry.
• Ideal For: Individuals with at least 5 years of industry experience and current CST® certification.
• Format: Instructor-led sessions and exam.
• Key Topics:
  • Advanced water quality and treatment.
  • Complex electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Business management and customer relations.
  • Regulatory compliance and safety standards.
• Certification: Passing the CSP® exam.

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6. Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Certification

• Offered By: National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
• Overview: The AFO certification provides comprehensive training for pool operators, focusing on water chemistry, disinfection, mechanical systems, operations, and safety.
• Ideal For: Pool owners, operators, and management staff.
• Format: In-person or virtual instructor-led courses.
• Key Topics:
  • Water chemistry and disinfection.
  • Mechanical systems and operations.
  • Health and safety protocols.
  • Facility operations and maintenance.
• Certification: Requires passing a standardized exam.

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7. Orenda Academy: Commercial Pool Care Course

• Offered By: Orenda Technologies
• Overview: This course focuses on proactive pool care, emphasizing water chemistry management, equipment operations, and daily maintenance tasks.
• Ideal For: Pool service professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge of best practices in commercial pool care.
• Format: Online, self-paced course.
• Key Topics:
  • Basics of pool maintenance and chemistry.
  • Use of the Orenda app and Startup Method.
  • Introduction to Orenda products.
• Certification: Certificate awarded upon course completion.

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8. Pool Chemistry Training Institute (PCTI) Certification

• Offered By: HASA
• Overview: The PCTI certification is a one-day course focusing on pool chemistry, water balance, and maintenance practices.
• Ideal For: Pool service professionals aiming to improve their understanding of pool chemistry.
• Format: In-person course.
• Key Topics:
  • Water chemistry and balance.
  • Pool construction materials.
  • Pool math and calculations.
• Certification: Certificate of Achievement and a certification patch valid for 3 years.

Information on HASA Pool Chemistry Training Institute Certification 

9. Aquatic Venue Public Health Inspector Course

• Offered By: Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC)
• Overview: This course provides health inspectors and pool operators with tools and resources to ensure aquatic venues are maintained and operated safely, minimizing health hazards.
• Ideal For: Health inspectors and individuals responsible for inspecting public and semi-public pools or aquatic venues.
• Format: Approximately 8-hour course.
• Certification: Valid for 5 years.

More Information on CMAHC Inspector Course