A pool attendant is typically hired to keep a pool, the water in it, and the surrounding area in good working order. Pool attendants are also required some employers to supervise entry and exit from a secure pool facility. Pool attendants are essentially facility maintenance managers. They are not to be confused with lifeguards, who are responsible for the health and safety of pool patrons and must possess special certifications.
Typically, public pools are regulated recreational facilities. They must be properly managed, or else the sharing of bathing water groups of swimmers can result in biological hazards, causing people to become ill and spreading disease. The changing chemistry of the water is the most important aspect of pool maintenance. To keep the pool water safe to swim in, chemicals like chlorine must be added on a regular basis to kill bacteria and other harmful organisms. The amount of chemicals that must be added varies depending on the number of people in the water, the temperature of the atmosphere, and other factors.
Hourly water readings are taken pool attendants to ensure that the water chemistry is within safe limits. The attendant must adjust the mechanical system to deliver more chemicals into the water if the readings change. The pool attendant is also in charge of the water’s color and clarity. These features have to do with the pool’s filtration system. Pool attendants must also skim the water with a net to prevent large objects from contaminating the water or entering the filter system.
In a nutshell, pool attendants’ primary responsibilities are to maintain the water’s chemistry, clarity, and color. Swimmers’ health can be jeopardized if an attendant fails to perform any of these responsibilities. The health department of the jurisdiction may close the facility and fine the owner for poor water maintenance.
Pool attendants are frequently required to clean and maintain the deck, as well as any bathrooms or changing facilities in the pool area, in addition to water maintenance. Pool attendants are frequently responsible for overseeing pool equipment such as deck chairs and flotation devices, as well as ensuring that it is properly stored at the end of the day. A pool attendant may also be in charge of controlling access to the pool area collecting money or tickets.
It’s crucial to understand the difference between a pool attendant and a lifeguard. It is possible to hold both positions at the same time, but it is not recommended. Every hour, pool attendants spend time taking water readings and maintaining the water filtration system, which is usually located indoors. To prevent drownings, lifeguards must keep their eyes on the water at all times. Although the two jobs are complementary, they require different functional abilities.