Aquatic Risk Management
While every public pool owner wants to make sure swimmers are having fun, it’s more important that swimmers are able to enjoy swimming in the pool safely. And the best way to make sure swimmers are safe is to have a comprehensive aquatic risk management plan.
What is Swimming Pool Risk Management?
As a public pool owner, you’re responsible — or liable — for anything that happens on your property. So, if someone who’s running slips and falls and hurts themselves and you don’t have a sign up that explicitly says, “no running,” they could claim you’re responsible for their injury based on a legal principle called negligence. You’ve probably already heard of it.
Now, you may be thinking, “that’s what liability insurance is for.” And that’s partially true. But wouldn’t you prefer to prevent situations that require insurance to get involved entirely?
Why You Need a Pool Risk Management Plan
This is where a pool risk management plan comes in. Swimming pool risk management is making sure your pool and your pool staff are prepared for worst-case scenarios.
Here are some examples of good aquatic risk management practices:
- Scheduling lifeguard training sessions
- Frequently checking all pool safety equipment
- Regularly reviewing all pool safety protocols and processes
- Attending aquatics safety conferences and seminars
- Checking all pool electrical and mechanical system
Another key part of a pool risk management plan is making sure your pool meets all local pool regulations. And the best way to make sure it does is to regularly get it inspected by certified, experienced pool inspectors. Building codes change and your pool — like anything else — experiences wear. That’s why we recommend you get your pool inspected at least once a year.
Inspections Are Another Key Part of Pool Risk Management
Getting an annual pool inspection is the best way to make sure your pool meets all the pool regulations in your area. It’s also the best way to identify any potential issues before they turn into big problems that could not only lead to significant repair costs but also horrible accidents.
Take, for example, the accident that resulted in the formation of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA). In 2002, a 7-year-old girl named Virginia Graeme Baker drowned in a hot tub because the suction was too strong and it pulled her underwater against the drain.
The Virginia Graeme tragedy is certainly a worst-case scenario, but it shows how important it is to get your pool — including the electrical equipment and the decking — regularly inspected.
And while it’s important your pool is safe, it’s not the only reason to get your pool inspected; it’s also about protecting your property — and, more importantly, your investment.
Most of our inspectors have more than 20 years of experience in the pool industry, and many of them previously worked as contractors before they became inspectors. When they inspect your pool, they’ll not only identify potential problems, they’ll explain how you can fix them.
If you’re concerned about your current aquatic risk management efforts, contact us today. A pool inspection is oftentimes the first step toward creating a safer pool environment for everyone.