LIFEGUARDt r a i n i n g m a n u a l

Qualifiedand

ttendentALocation for Testing and Certification

Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness 400 East Gray Street Louisville, KY 40202

Written exams are currently given:Monday - Friday 8:30 AM.- 4PM.

(502) 574-6650

Peak Season May 13 - June 7 Test administered in the Forum on the first floorMonday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4 PM

Come early and bring all documentation to avoid long lines.

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Bring the following documentation:• Know the date and the pool that you took the water skills test• Photo ID with date of birth

• Original Lifeguard, First Aid and CPR cards• The permit cost $25, cash is preferred but will accept check,

Visa, Mastercard and Discover

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................... 2

FACILITY ORGANIZATION ........................................................................................................................................... 3

SURVEILLENCE ............................................................................................................................................................ 4

EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN ........................................................................................................................................ 5

LEGAL LIABILITY .......................................................................................................................................................... 6

DIVERSITY ................................................................................................................................................................... 7

WATER CHEMISTRY .................................................................................................................................................... 8

Water Balance ........................................................................................................................................................ 8

Disinfection of the Swimming Pool Water ............................................................................................................. 8

pH Chemistry .......................................................................................................................................................... 9

Total Alkalinity ....................................................................................................................................................... 9

Calcium Hardness ................................................................................................................................................... 9

THE SWIMMING POOL SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................... 10

Pump ................................................................................................................................................................... 10

Hair and Lint Strainer .............................................................................................................................................. 10

Turnover Rate ....................................................................................................................................................... 10

Main Drain and Perimeter Overflow Systems / Surface Skimmers ..................................................................... 10

Filtration Systems ............................................................................................................................................... 11

Chemical Feeders .................................................................................................................................................. 11

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SAFETY .............................................................................................................................. 12

REASONS THE SWIMMING POOL CAN BE CLOSED BY THE BOARD OF HEALTH ...................................................... 12

LIFEGUARD WATER RESCUE SKILLS ........................................................................................................................... 13

QUALIFIED POOL ATTENDANT WATER RESCUE SKILLS ........................................................................................... 14

APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................................. 15

Certification Requirements ...............................................................................................................................16

Report of Incident ..............................................................................................................................................21

First Aid Kit Requirement ..................................................................................................................................

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Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Incident Report Form ....................................................................................

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Fecal Incident Response Recommendations .....................................................................................................

Pool Disinfection Time charts ...........................................................................................................................

STUDY GUIDE FOR WRITTEN TEST ......................................................................................................................

Lightning Safety at Swimming Pools ................................................................................................................ 23

Cleaning up Bodily Fluid Spills on pool Surfaces

Recreational Water Illnesses

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INTRODUCTION Welcome to the Louisville Metro Lifeguard and Qualified Attendant certification and training program. Being a lifeguard is one of the most important jobs you will ever have. The Department of Public Health and Wellness thanks you for your dedication to water safety through your career as a lifeguard. You will be responsible for helping the aquatic facility patrons stay safe and healthy, rescuing, and helping them when accidents or disasters strike. Because you may be called on to save lives, you must be ready to make a rescue at any time.

The Division of Environmental Health and Emergency Preparedness Public Facilities program enforce regulations passed by the State of Kentucky and the Metro Louisville Board of Health. Approximately 500 public Swimming Pools in Metro Louisville are inspected at least twice every season. 125 indoor pools are inspected every 30 days for water quality, and weekly water samples for bacteria testing is collected. Inspections include verifying certified guards or Qualified Attendants are on duty, all equipment is working properly to disinfect and filter the water, and all safety equipment is on deck and in proper working order.

The Professional Rescuer Lifeguard/Qualified Attendant is hired to preform specialized duties, most facilities will provide the guard with a written job description. These duties should never distract from the following primary duties:

• Preventing emergencies

• Enforcing rules

• Recognizing and responding to all emergencies

• Administering first aid or CPR

• Communication with other staff when more help or equipment is needed

Every facility should be under close supervision of a trained and competent operator. Such operator shall be familiar with the equipment of the pool and tests necessary for the operation of the pool and shall be responsible for all sanitary measures per regulation 900.0203.

****************************************************************************** The Lifeguard Qualified Attendant Training Manual was developed with the assistance of the following aquatics professionals who teach the Board of Health water skills test: J.C. Barnett, Keith Smith, Garrett Shadowen, Loren Wingfeld, Chris Neichter, Seth Boone, Megan Creagh andMissey Mussler.

This manual is designed with recommendations and examples as recall material, but cannot be considered an absolute text. Please refer to the training materials provided to you from the agency in which you completed one or more of the following: Basic Lifeguarding, Poolside Rescue and/or allow Water Lifeguard, First Aid, CPR and Oxygen Administration.

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FACILITY ORGANIZATION The responsibility for the operation of a public or private swimming pool is the duty of the director of the swimming pool complex and designated members of his/her administrative staff. Owners and administrators for public and private swimming pool facilities should establish standards and codes of conduct for all employees. Pool supervisors have the responsibility of assuring adherence to these established standards and rules. Administrative duties include proper record keeping of swimming pool operation, appropriate staffing, and adhering to current local/state/federal regulations. Water safety personnel are the organization’s first line of defense. Staff knowledge and training about their facility is a sign of a well-run aquatic facility.

STAFF IN-SERVICES Most well run facilities will hold weekly meetings to discuss policy changes, issues, incidents and/or rescues from the previous week, as well as perform skill assessments to ensure all members of the staff are well versed in all rescue techniques.

STAFF COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS Staff communication must be clear in meaning and practiced in training. Communication procedures can include whistle, hand and equipment signals, flags and/or radios. Although these signals may differ for your facility, example whistle signals may be:

• One short blast- get a swimmer’s attention• Two short blasts- get another Lifeguard/qualified attendant’s attention• One long blast- initiate emergency procedure• Hand signals should be based on common sense hand motions and should be held for a few seconds to

be sure they have been seen.

RULES When rules are made and the lifeguard/qualified attendant enforces the rule for all patrons in a reasonable manner, it will result in greater respect for the lifeguard/qualified attendant.

COMPOSITION AND ENFORCEMENT OF RULES The composition & enforcement of permanent rules is an important aspect of preventive lifeguarding. Rules should naturally evolve from the foresight of preventive lifeguarding. No one set of rules will apply to every pool as each pool has unique features and unique dangers. The rules that are chosen for a facility should be designed to prevent the most common and dangerous inappropriate behavior for that specific facility.

TECHNIQUES FOR RULE ENFORCEMENT 1. “Talk to,” not “talk down to.”2. Remove sunglasses when talking to someone.3. Know the rule and its purpose.4. Be consistent; “no running” means “no running.”5. Use an even tone in your voice.6. Enforce rule on the first day through the last day.7. React immediately.8. Provide patrons with the acceptable alternative behavior.9. Be specific on how the rule was broken.10. Rule enforcement model: “I saw (infraction). That is (dangerous?). Please (corrective behavior).”

DANGER AREAS IN THE POOLEach facility is unique in several ways: patrons, design of pool, equipment available, administration requirements, and communication system. It is expected that the lifeguard/qualified attendant staff be familiar with all aspects of operation and procedures at their facility. Common areas of danger in and around pools are: Shallow areas, Pool Deck, Ladders, Lifeline/Area between deep and shallow, Gutters/Skimmers, Diving areas/Deep water, Baby pool

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SURVEILLENCEFor the lifeguard /qualified attendant on duty, being able to identify potential victims is crucial. Stay relaxed but keep a vigilant watch over your area with proper surveillance techniques.

1. Scanning should be continuous with no interruption by intrusions and/or distractions.2. Scan your zone or area of the pool to include surface, middle and bottom of pool.3. Strive for a 10 second reaction to a swimmer in trouble and respond within 20 seconds.4. Pay special attention to high risk areas such as diving areas, slide and spray park features.

FACTORS AFFECTING SURVEILLANCE Lifeguard /Qualified Attendant positioning is critical to effective surveillance. If complete visual coverage is impossible, then additional staff should be used or the pool must be closed.Several factors affect the ability to provide proper visual surveillance of the swim area:

• Ability to see below the water surface diminishes with distance, and becomes more difficult withreflection, refraction, glare and wind/rain affecting the water surface.

• Ability to recognize a distressed swimmer (facial expressions, arm movement) is affected by thelifeguard/qualified attendant’s eyesight and distance.

• Ability to see/recognize a distressed or submerged swimmer is compromised when bathers arecrowded together (density), obstructing the lifeguard/qualified attendant’s view.

• Ability to provide adequate visual surveillance is affected by the activities occurring in the pool and onthe deck that distract the lifeguard/qualified attendant from continuous scanning.

• Structures in the pool, e.g. islands, bulkheads can also affect visual surveillance by creating blind spots.• The area directly below the lifeguard chair must be visible if there is only one lifeguard on duty.

WARNING SIGNS Types of individuals and behaviors that the lifeguard/qualified attendant should be aware of to watch for potential trouble:

1. Patrons of extreme age or weight2. Parents holding children3. Patrons using flotation devices4. Physically impaired people5. Patrons of different cultures dressed in

non-typical swim attire

6. Patrons with weak swimming strokes7. Clinging to an object/safety line for security8. Neutral to negative buoyancy (don’t appear to

float easily)9. Patrons with the inability to respond verbally10. Patrons exhibiting erratic behavior

SAFETY EQUIPMENT The following is a list of safety equipment that must be at each aquatic facility to comply with the Department of Public Health and Wellness Swimming Pool Regulations. One unit shall be present for each two thousand (2,000) square feet of pool surface, additional units must be present for each additional 2,000 sq ft of pool surface. One unit of safety equipment shall consist of the following: • A Coast Guard approved ring buoy, not less than twenty (20) inches in diameter with an attached sturdy line

sixty (60) feet in length, or a sturdy line one and one-half (1 ½) times the maximum width of the pool,whichever is less.

• A rescue tube for each lifeguard at swimming pools greater than 60 inches in depth.• A life pole or shepherd’s crook type of pole having blunted ends with a minimum length of twelve (12) feet.• A spine board or backboard or the equivalent approved by a representative of the Division of Environmental

Health and Emergency Preparedness. Only one spine board is required for each swimming pool complex, butit is recommended that facilities with large swimming pools or facilities with multi pools have severalavailable boards. Boards must be equipped with a head immobilizer and straps.

• All facilities shall have a non-pay telephone (must be a land line that is hard wired) on the pool deck that isreadily accessible to water safety personnel and conspicuously (visible to patrons also) Directions on how todial 911 and the facility address shall be posted in a visible location near the telephone.

• A Standard First Aid kit or its equivalent must be available for use.

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EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN Planned and practiced emergency procedures are the best guidelines for handling any emergency situation. All aquatic personnel must know exactly what their responsibility is in an emergency situation and be able to function efficiently and calmly. The pool manager/area supervisor of each pool is responsible for training their staff in emergency procedures and conduct regular drills on these emergency procedures to ensure maximum speed and efficiency at critical moments.

• Primary Rescuer: The lifeguard/qualified attendant nearest the victim recognizes the emergencysituation and blows 1 long whistle blast, (and holds their rescue tube if a lifeguard in deep water in theagreed upon position, vertical or horizontal) to let other safety personnel know what type of incidenthas occurred.

• All on duty lifeguards/qualified attendants relay 1 long whistle blast to make all personnel and those inthe office aware of the emergency situation.

• Secondary Rescuer: The lifeguard/qualified attendant nearest the situation goes to assist the primaryrescuer. The secondary rescuer can either help with the victim or provide backup coverage by scanningthe zone (water) vacated by the rescuing guard. At least one guard should stay in the chair to verifythat all patrons have cleared the pool area.

• Remaining lifeguards/qualified attendants can assist with the rescue if needed and help with crowdcontrol.

• A designated person makes the emergency announcements and calls 911 as directed.• A lifeguard/qualified attendant, or designee should wait at the front of the facility to direct emergency

vehicles to the open gate.• Other safety personnel should be ready to take any additional rescue equipment (blankets, first aid kit,

backboard, etc.) to the scene.A member of management should be the person responsible for obtaining and contacting the victim’s family and/or guardian with information of where the victim was transported for medical care.

COMMUNICATION STEPS FOR AN EMERGENCY EVENT 1. Have necessary equipment to perform the rescue available at all times.2. Contact EMS only if the victim’s condition is life-threatening.3. Any near-drowning victim or victim who has received rescue breathing or CPR should be observed at a

hospital regardless of how well he or she seems to have recovered.4. Prepare detailed incident report immediately. Use the Incident Report from in this manual or other

provided by your facility and email to lmphwlifeguard@louisvilleky.gov.5. For all drownings, near-drownings and serious injuries requiring transport to advanced medical care

you must submit the incident report to the following agencies within 24 hours of the incident:• Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, Division of Environmental Health

and Emergency Preparedness at (502) 574-6650 (If after hours, follow emergency prompts).Report the incident by phone to the health department as soon as possible - but not to exceed 2hours. * See Appendix page 21 for Incident Report.

• Kentucky Environmental Management Branch at (502) 564-4856

EXAMPLE EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN FOR A SINGLE LIFEGUARDED FACILITY Rescuer: The lifeguard/qualified attendant recognizes the emergency situation and blows 1 long whistle blast to clear the pool and enters the water with rescue tube/other piece of safety equipment.

• The lifeguard/qualified attendant should have a pre-arranged notification (whistle blast or other) tomake all personnel and those in the office aware of the emergency.

• While you are approaching the victim, have a staff member or bystander call 911.• Have someone wait at the front of the facility to direct emergency vehicles to the open gate.• If you are by yourself, remove the victim from the water, provide the necessary first aid and call 911.• A member of management should be the person responsible for contacting the victim’s family and/or

guardian with information of where the victim was transported for medical care.

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LEGAL LIABILITY There are differences between the various states and municipalities as to legal requirements for proper control of swimming pools. While these comments may serve as a guide, reference must be made to the state and local law, especially regarding sanitation codes, and safety devices. It is up to the operator to adhere to the state and local pool codes. Judges have found owners, operators, supervisors or lifeguards legally liable for drowning in all of the following situations:

• Where there were insufficient, illegible or missing depth markers.• Where there was a failure to provide a lifeguard.• Where, although lifeguards were provided, they were found to be insufficient in number and

insufficiently skilled.• Where the operator failed to provide proper resuscitation equipment or persons skilled in rescue

breathing.• Where the lifeguards, although sufficient in number and properly qualified, were inattentive.• Where it was shown that the proper rescue efforts were not undertaken or were not undertaken

promptly.• Where there were insufficient or inadequate underwater lights.• Where there was discoloration or turbidity in the water that concealed dangers or hamper

rescue.

• Where there was a failure on the part of the lifeguards to prevent unsafe play in the pool.• Where it was shown that the pool sidewalk or ladders were slippery or defective.

OTHER LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS • Duty to Act - Legal obligation to act• Standard of Care - Performance considered by law within a profession as the action likely to be

reasonable and professional• Good Samaritan Law - Protects citizens from legal liability when acting in good faith in a reasonable

manner• Consent - Conscious adults must give the “OK” before treatment can proceed - Children without a parent

or guardian present have an implied consent• Negligence - Failing to provide care or assistance to a person in need• Confidentiality - Any facts or information revealed during the response to an emergency is PRIVATE.• Record Keeping - Document all information pertaining to emergencies ( Incident Report Page 21 )• Abandonment - Once care is initiated, it must be continued until emergency medical services (EMS)

personnel or someone with equal or greater training arrives and takes over. You can be held legallyresponsible for abandoning a person who requires ongoing care if you leave the scene or stopproviding care

• Refusal of care - Some injured or ill people may refuse care, even if they desperately need it. Parentsalso refuse care for their children. Even though someone may be seriously injured, their wishes must behonored. You must document any refusal of care. Someone else, such as another lifeguard, shouldwitness the person’s refusal of care and sign a report. Ask the person who refuses care to sign thereport as well; if they refuse to sign, note that on the report

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DIVERSITY CULTURAL DIVERSITY

Cultural diversity refers to differences among groups of people. Cultural differences can be found in customs, beliefs and practices, age, gender, race, religion or spirituality and sexual orientation. As a person representing your facility, you must learn to accept the differences and try to make everyone welcome. Some patrons visiting your facility may not be able to communicate in English or speak just enough to try and make them understood. If your facility attracts a diverse population, it may be necessary to post signs and rules in other languages or put up signage that uses universal pictures and symbols to communicate the rules.

SPECIAL POPULATIONS Making facilities safe and accessible for people with disabilities may require you and your facility to make accommodations. As per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), people with disabilities must have access to all facilities and must receive equal opportunity to use them. The most common disabilities that you may encounter are:

SENSORY DISABILITIES • Blind• Deaf or Hearing Impaired

PHYSICAL DISIBILITIES • Muscular dystrophy• Cerebral palsy• Multiple sclerosis• Spinal bifida• Epilepsy - seizures can be blank stares to extreme rigidity or jerking motions• Asthma - keep airway open, and remove from water. Most will have an inhaler/medication close at

hand• Wheelchair patients

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES • Learning disabled• Mental disabilities• Behavior disorders and/or emotionally disturbed

GENERAL TIPS FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS • Observe walking patterns. Look for canes, crutches, braces, wheelchair• May wear protective clothing (i.e., diapers, protective pants for sanitation, shirts to protect from sun,

and socks to prevent scrapes)• May need a flat place or to lie flat when dressing• Remember some medications make them supersensitive to the sun• Be sure you learn how to operate your Handicap Lift• Be observant of Medical Alert bracelets or neck chains• Persons with differing abilities will panic when the conditions change, be alert!• Be professional, be observant and be helpful!

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WATER CHEMISTRY WATER BALANCE

Water quality is of prime importance. Water balance is accomplished by proper treatment with disinfectants and with the process of filtration. Temperatures, total dissolved solids, pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness all play an important role in the proper management of swimming pool water. To assure water quality in private/public swimming pool, samples of the water are collected and examined in the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness Public Health Laboratory. Should analysis of a water sample show contamination of more than 2 coliform per 100 milliliters, the Laboratory labels the sample “Positive” and contaminated. Pool operators are notified immediately and corrective action is recommended. After corrective action has been taken, a second sample will be taken and, if negative, no further action will be taken. If the second sample is also positive, the operator will be ordered to close the pool until a negativesample is obtained.

Water clarity is also very important. Discoloration, cloudiness, or turbidity in swimming pool water cannot be allowed. The water must be clear enough so the Lifeguard/Qualified Attendant sitting in the chair or standing on the deck can clearly see the main drain grate (900.1209(b)) on the bottom of the pool at the deepest point. Failure to comply with this part of the local regulation requires pool closure.

ACCURACY IN CHEMICAL WATER TESTINGWater samples should be taken at least 18 inches below the water surface in areas away from the return line. Insert a clean comparator, bottom side up, to the required depth and turn the comparator tip side up to receive the sample of water for testing.

1. Reagents must be thoroughly mixed in the water comparator, by swirling when each drop of reagent isadded.

2. By holding a blank white sheet of paper behind the comparator you can match the color changes andthen record your readings. This must be done within one minute of adding the last reagent.

3. After testing, flush out the comparator with fresh (tap) water to avoid any residue from interfering orcontaminating the next test. Colored solutions remaining in the comparator will stain the sides andthen compromise the color interpretation of future readings.

4. Never touch the caps or tips of the reagent bottles, replace caps immediately and securely tightento avoid external contamination.

5. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions, often located on the inside of the lid of the test kit.6. Never interchange reagents from other kits or other manufacturers.7. Be sure to use the correct amount of reagent required for the test.8. If readings are higher in one end of the pool than the other, the problem may be with the swimming

pool wall inlet adjustment.

The board of health required readings to be taken and recorded by staff on the following schedule: • Free available chlorine/bromine, combined chlorine, and pH – before opening and and at least

three times a day during all hours of operation• Total alkalinity – At least once a week• Calcium Hardness – At least once a month

DISINFECTION OF THE SWIMMING POOL WATER Sanitizing the swimming pool water with chlorine, bromine or another type of disinfectant will usually destroy RWI's Since most of the Louisville Metro community pools use chlorine, we will only address these methods.

. At all times a lid should be kept on the solution container for these reasons: • It keeps dirt and objects from falling in the container.• The chlorine vapors will corrode all metal equipment in the pump room.

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Chlorine The acceptable chlorine (Cl 2) reading for Jefferson County is 1.0 ppm to 2.5 ppm. Perspiration (sweat) and urine cause a special problem because they combine with chlorine to create a new chemical called “chloramines”. These chloramines do not kill germs effectively. Chloramines can cause the eyes to burn and there is often a sour taste and smell in the water. To find out if chloramines are present - test for free available chlorine and record that reading, then test for total chlorine and subtract that reading from the free CL2 reading to obtain the combined chlorine reading. Super Chlorination Super chlorination is the process of raising the chlorine reading level between 5 ppm and 10 ppm. This should only be done when pool is closed. If the combined reading is greater than .2 ppm, chloramines are present and super-chlorination (“shocking the pool”) is necessary. Bromine The acceptable bromine (Br) reading for Jefferson County is 2.0 ppm to 2.5PPM.

PH CHEMISTRY pH is a scale that measures the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. The scale can range from 0 to 14 with the

acidity being present on the lower end and the alkalinity on the higher end of the scale. The recommended ideal range is 7.2 to 7.8 . Why is pH important? First, the germ-killing power of chlorine varies with pH level. As pH goes up, the ability of chlorine to kill germs goes down. Second, a swimmer’s body has a pH between 7.2 and 7.8, if the pool water isn’t in this range then swimmers will start to feel irritation of their eyes and skin. To raise pH

Add soda ash (sodium carbonate). Adding soda ash by hand is acceptable. Add only small amounts, and never while the pool is open.

To lower pH Add muriatic acid or dry acid (sodium bisulfate). When adding muriatic acid, use an acid pump. Never pour acid directly into the pool. Follow manufactures instructions and always use proper PPE.

pH TOO LOW pH TOO HIGH *corrodes surfaces and equipment ∗ deposits scale on surfaces and equipment *stains walls ∗ contributes to cloudy water *irritates bathers’ skin and eyes ∗ causes poor sanitizer efficiency *promotes chlorine loss ∗ irritates bathers’ skin and eyes

TOTAL ALKALINITY Total alkalinity (TA) can be defined as the index of water’s resistance to pH change. Proper readings of TA are important because it allows us to make adjustments in the pool’s pH level with a predictable quantity of acid or base. Up and down changes in pH can be caused by acids or base, make-up water, rain, and other specialty chemicals. Local regulations require alkalinity testing weekly and to be not less than 50 ppm or more than 180 ppmTotal alkalinity can be adjusted by doing the following:

• To raise TA :add sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)• To lower TA :add muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate

CALCIUM HARDNESS Calcium hardness (CH) is the amount of dissolved calcium in your water and should be tested for monthly. The ideal range reading is 200 ppm to 250 ppm. If the water is low in calcium hardness, it will damage surfaces. If the water contains too much calcium, it will deposit the excess calcium on pool surfaces and equipment.

• To raise CH : add calcium chloride• To lower CH : drain pool water and replace with water containing lower calcium hardness levels

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THE SWIMMING POOL SYSTEM Maintaining swimming pool water at the proper disinfectant levels and free of debris requires continuous circulation of the water. A basic understanding of the mechanical systems of a swimming pool will help you to determine if the operator needs to be contacted for maintenance or repair. DO NOT attempt maintenance and/or repairs unless you have been properly trained on the entire operation of the swimming pool.

PUMP The pump’s impeller propels the water through the entire circulation system. None of the other components can function when it stops.

HAIR AND LINT STRAINER The pump impeller must be protected from debris, such as leaves, hair, and other items. The hair and lint strainer is designed and installed to protect the pump from this hazard. Water enters the strainer unrestricted, and must flow through a strainer basket before reaching the pump. It is necessary to check and clean the hair and lint strainer daily. Check manufacturer instructions for cleaning procedures before attempting.

TURNOVER RATE The turnover rate is the time it takes for the entire volume of water in the pool to circulate through the pool filtration system one time. If the pump is stopped, tuned off or damaged; proper filtration of the water is NOT accomplished producing unacceptable water quality standards. Every pool filtration system in the Louisville Metro community is required to have a flow meter that reads the gallons per minute. The Swimming Pool Regulations in Jefferson County requires a six- (6) hour or less, turnover rate for pools. Spas, wading pools, water parks and other specialty pools will have different turnover rates based on the type of patron activity and volume of water in the pool. One factor that can affect a turnover rate is the hair & lint strainer and skimmer baskets. If they become clogged the water cannot pass through, causing the GPM to slow down. Filters also become dirty; slowing the GPM down and affecting the turnover rate. Backwashing the filter system will become necessary. Flow Meter The flow meter will indicate how many gallons of water are going through the filter system every minute and helps to determine the turnover rate of the pool. Flow meter consists of a vertical glass or plastic tube. In the tube is a small weight supported by the flow of water through the tube. The flow rate is documented daily.

MAIN DRAIN AND PERIMITER OVERFLOW SYSTEMS/SURFACE SKIMMERS The main drain cover is located at the deepest part of the swimming pool and a controlled amount of water

circulates through it. The greatest volume of circulating pool water should go through the perimeter overflow system or surface skimmers because floating oils, debris and potential pollutants are found in the surface water. Main Drain

• Main drains are sized during the pool design and no changes in size, design, location or operation areallowed unless approved by the Health Department Engineer. The openings in the main drain cover mustbe free of debris.

• Main drain covers should be inspected daily for cracks or broken parts and if in disrepair,

• If the main drain cannot be seen due to cloudy water, CLOSE THE POOL IMMEDIATELY.• Children playing around broken drain covers or grates may have their hands or arms drawn into the drain

where they are unable to free themselves. Several deaths have been attributed to this hazard.PERIMETER OVERFLOW SYSTEM (GUTTER)

• Gutters are trough-like designs that remove water based on surface tension during pool non-use.• During non-use, water level must be no more than ¼ inch above the lip of the gutter to remove the top

layer of surface water for filtration and treatment.• During use, patron activity creates a wave motion which traps the water in the gutter and removes the

top layer of surface water for filtration and treatment.

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CLOSE THE POOL IMMEDIATELY.

Surface Skimmers • Surface skimmers develop sufficient velocity on the pool water surface to induce floating oils and wastes

into the skimmer from the entire pool area.• A floating weir is located at the entrance of the skimmer and must not be removed. The weir adjusts to

the level of the pool water providing the skimming action with water and debris flowing over the weirinto the skimmer basket.

• The skimmer basket is removable and should be emptied and cleaned twice daily. The basket catchesleaves, bobby pins, hair, rings, etc. that may damage the pumps impeller. Replace immediately aftercleaning.

Surge Tank This tank may provide for continuous addition of makeup water for the pool and also serve as a receiving point for overflow gutter and main drain. Makeup water must be added to the tank through an air gap connection.

FILTRATION SYSTEMS Filtration of your swimming pool water is necessary to meet required water quality standards. Filters remove contaminants that encourage the growth of bacteria and algae in your pool water. There are several types of

filter systems that can be used for filtration in your pool. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filtration *PPE is advised when handling this product.

Media/DE Powder The filter media is composed of the fossil remains of microscopic aquatic plants. Each tiny fossil is porous,

containing minor passage and channels, which will capture particulate matter and even some bacteria. Backwashing/Cleaning

When the elements become clogged enough to reduce the flow rate below the pools required level, the filters must be cleaned. Most filter manufacturers recommend a pressure reading to determine when to backwash. For a closed DE filter, reversing the flow of the water flexes or rotates the filter elements, causing the diatomaceous earth to fall off the filters to waste. For an open diatomaceous earth filter, spraying the elements directly with a hose will clean the elements. Also, make sure the pit is entirely clean before refilling.

Always follow safety guidelines on the SDS for DE. Training should be provided to staff before attempting to backwash and/or clean the DE filters. Sand Filtration

High-Rate Sand Filtration system uses a very fine sand to produce a high filtration rate with a controlled distribution flow pattern. Water enters the top of the tank and is distributed through a baffle over the top of the sand bed. High-rate sand filters usually trap particles and pollutants in the top several inches of the sand.

Backwashing/Cleaning It is time to backwash when the water entering (influent) the filter and the water exiting (effluent) the filter reaches 10 to 20 pounds per square inch. During backwash, the water flow is reversed so the sand is lifted, expands and is agitated to fill the freeboard space. Agitation removes trapped particles and pollutants discharges them to waste. Training should be provided to staff before attempting to backwash and/or clean the filter.

Cartridge Filtration Cartridge filtration is only allowed on indoor facilities such as spas, therapy pools or pools with less than80,000 gallons. The pool water moves through fabric covered surface filters arranged in a pleated fashion around an oval or cylindrical core. Suspended material and particles in the pool water are deposited on the filter element. Cartridge filters must be removed from the filter housing and hosed off to clean.

CHEMICAL FEEDERS Chemicals such as chlorine, bromine and muratic acid may only be added by a chemical feed system.

. “Hand feeding” chemicals directly to the pool while the pool is open is prohibited in Jefferson County, as it is impossible to maintain the correct level of disinfectant readings when hand feeding.

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HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SAFETY When handling swimming pool chemicals and/or filter media, READ the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) for each item. This will guide you on the necessary health and safety precautions you must take when handling these materials.

1. Follow instructions - mix chemicals only as directed by the manufacture’s label instructions.2. Never add water to chemicals, always add chemicals to water slowly.3. Protect your mouth/nose from inhalation hazards when working with Diatomaceous Earth (DE) used for

pre-coating filtration equipment. Protect eyes with glasses, goggles or mask while mixing chemicals.4. Never mix any chemicals with calcium hypochlorite (dry chlorine) or sodium hypochlorite (liquid

chlorine), because a dangerous gas can develop immediately.5. Always use a clean dipper (free of grease, oil or insecticides) when dipping into container of granular

chlorine; it is a potential fire hazard.6. Keep chemicals and filter media in their orig inal containers.7. Keep the pool equipment room clean and dry, do not hose down the area.8. Replace chemical and filter media container covers tightly after eve ry use.9. Always clean up spillage.

10. Keep chemicals and filter media away from electrical equipment and flames.11. Throw empty chemical and filter media containers into labeled containers before disposing,

Small quantities of chemicals can mix with other trash and ignite spontaneously.

REASONS THE SWIMMING POOL CAN BE CLOSED BY THE BOARD OF HEALTH 900.1901 Whenever the Department finds any of the conditions set forth in (a) through (h) below, it may immediately order the owner, operator, or water safety personnel on duty to close the facility and to prohibit any person from using the facility. Such order shall be provided in writing.

(a) If conditions at a facility, including bathhouse facilities, upon inspection and investigation by arepresentative of the Department, create an immediate danger to health or safety;

(b) When the Department upon review of results of bacteriological analyses of water samples collectedfrom a facility, finds that such water does not conform to the bacteriological standards promulgatedby the Department for proper swimming and bathing water quality; (Two consecutive positive watersamples collected and analyzed by the laboratory)

(c) When an environmental survey of an area shows evidence of sewage or other pollution or toxicmaterials being discharged to waters creating an immediate danger to health or safety;

(d) When turbidity (cloudiness) levels of facility water do not meet the requirements of this Code.(main drain grates are NOT clearly visible, broken or missing.

(e) When recirculation system(s), filtration system(s), or disinfectant system(s) are not in operation;(Pumpsand/or disinfection system are NOT working or are turned off, resulting in NO water filtration and/orinadequate disinfectant levels)

(f) When facilities do not meet water safety personnel requirements, (No certified Lifeguard or QualifiedAttendant on duty while swimming pool is open)

(g) In an instance where the owner, operator, or any other employee or representative of the ownerinterferes with duly authorized representative of the Department, bearing proper identification, in theperformance of their duties;

(h) When serious or repeated violations of any of the requirements of the regulations are found.(If required safety equipment is Not readily available on the pool deck for emergency rescues,including emergency phone, and any other repeat violations of the Swimming Pool Code)

(i) The flow rate is too high or too low.(j) Insignificant barriers, gates, signage in the pool area

12

Even with the utilization of preventive lifeguarding, water accidents can and will occur. When faced with an emergency, the lifeguard must respond in such a way that will ensure the safety of the victim as well as the safety of the rescuer.

There are eight steps in which a lifeguard should follow when responding to a water rescue: 1. Activate the EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN2. Enter the water with rescue equipment3. Approach the victim4. Perform the appropriate rescue5. Move the victim to safety6. Remove the victim from the water7. Provide emergency care as needed8. Follow up with an Report of Incident (page 21)9. Internal evaluation and review of the rescue for all staff

SPINAL INJURY MANAGEME NTThe way in which a lifeguard handles someone in a spinal injury can make the difference between the victim being able to walk again or being paralyzed for the rest of his or her life. When determining whether the spinal cord or neck has been injured, you must take into consideration the cause of the injury. Situations that will indicate a possible spinal cord injury:

• Any fall from a height greater than the victim's height• Any diving or slide accident• Headfirst in shallow water• Diving from a height (diving board, cliff, etc.)• Any person found unconscious for unknown reason, especially in shallow water• Any significant head or neck trauma

Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Inj ury• Neck or back pain and/or tenderness at site of injury• Loss of body movement below the injury site• Tingling or loss of sensation in the extremities• Visible bruising• Deformity in neck or back• Altered consciousness• Impaired breathing• Loss of balance• Fluid or blood in ears or nose• Vomiting

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE OF THE CONDITION OF THE VICTIM, ALWAYS TREAT AS A SPINAL VICTIM!

31

LIFEGUARD WATER RESCUE SKILLS

SWIMMING RESCUES FOR LIFEGUARDS

Even with the utilization of preventive lifeguarding, water accidents can and will occur. When faced with an emrgency, the qualified attendant must respond in such a way that will ensure the safety of the victim as well as the safety of the rescuer. Qualified Attendants are trained in shallow water rescue techniques, which consist of extension assists and spinal injury management. The permit you receive from the Division allows you to work at local swimming pools that are 5 feet in depth or shallower.

EXTENSION ASSISTS FOR QUALIFIED ATTENDANTS Extension assists may be performed from the pool deck or in a shallow water situation. Equipment or a rescuers body part shall be used. Examples of this are as follows:

• Reaching Assist: extending the arm or leg to a distressed victim close to the side of the pool.• Extension Assist: using a rescue tube, ring buoy, pole, or shepherds crook as an extension of qualified

attendant’s reach.• Throwing Assist: using a ring buoy or rescue tube• Wading Assist: The qualified attendant shall enter shallow water and move to the victim and extend rescue

equipment to the distressed victim.

Procedures for the rescue and care of a Spinal Injury Victim

• Activate the Emergency Action Plan and enter the water• Approach and stabilize the victim• Check vitals• Maintain In-Line Stabilization Wait for more skilled responders

Techniques in Spinal Injury Management• Entries - objective is to not create additional movement in the

water• Head Splint• Vise Grip• Head Chin Support • Waveless entry• Ease in entry

Approach and stabilize the victim using an IN-LINE STABILIZATION TECHNIQUE

14

QUALIFIED ATTENDANTS

Behaviors of Active Drowning VictimDrowning victims who struggle to remain at the surface of the water have distinctive arm and body positions. This universal behavior is called the instinctive drowning response.

Behaviors of Passive Drowning VictimSome drowning victims do not struggle. They suddenly slip under water due to a medical condition or another cause such as a head injury, use of alcohol and other drugs, or even hyperventilation and/or prolonged underwater breath-holding activities.

APPENDIX

1

Qualified Pool Attendant Certification Requirements Lifeguard I Certification Requirements Lifeguard II Certification Requirements

(16)

(17)

(19)Advancement Recommendation for Lifeguard IIReport of IncidentLightning Safety at the PoolFirst-Aid Kit RequirementsCleaning up Body FluidsSpills on pool SurfacesBloodborne pathogen Exposure Incident Report Form

(20)(21)(23)

(24)(25))(25)(26)(27)(27)(28)(29)

Recreational Water IllnessesFecal Incident Response RecommendationsWhat Do I Do About ... Diarrhea in the Water?Lifeguard / Qualified Attendant Skills Checklist

5

(30) Study Guide for Written Test(31) Map to Louisville Metro Department

of Public Health and Wellness

Qualified Pool Attendant Certification Requirements

To become a Qualified Pool Attendant in Louisville Metro you must be 16 years of age and complete the following 3 Steps:

STEP 1: FIRST AID:* Providers and course locations listed on the back.

STEP 2: ADULT, CHILD and INFANT CPR: (CPR/AED for the professional rescuer is preferred)

STEP 3: POOLSIDE RESCUE: administered by The Division of Environmental Health and Emergency Preparedness Lifeguard Training and Certification Program. Register for the water swim test/lecture by calling 502-574-6650.

You can substitute a current basic lifeguarding certificate or take the American Red Cross Shallow Water Lifeguard Class for the POOLSIDE RESCUE requirement. (You must be able to present certification cards for either of these programs).

Once you have completed and passed the above steps:

STEP 4: Written test Administered at The Department of Public Health and Wellness, 400 East Gray Street, Louisville, KY 40202

Certification Testing Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM – 4:00PM

Peak season testing: May 13-June 7, 2019 Test administered in the Forum on the first floor

Monday - Friday 8:30 am.- 4 pm. Come early and bring all documentation to avoid long lines

BRING THE FOLLOWING WITH YOU

*Photo ID with date of birth * Original certification cards for above steps 1 and 2

Certification Costs: Certification fee is $25.00 / Duplicate Certificate fee is $5.00

Original certification card must be posted at pool

Qualified Attendant Certification expires in 3 years, you must update expired Poolside rescue, First Aid

and CPR for your certification to be valid.

1 6

Lifeguard I Certification

STEP 1: BASIC LIFEGUARD TRAINING:

STEP 2: FIRST AID:

STEP 3: PROFESSIONAL CPR for LIFEGUARDS:

STEP 4: GUARD COURSE: administered by The Division of Environmental Health and Emergency Preparedness Lifeguard Training and Certification Program. Register for the water swim test/lecture by calling 502-574-6650.

Certification Testing Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM – 4:00PM

Peak season testing: May 13-June 7, 2019 Test administered in the Forum on the first floor

Monday - Friday 8:30 am.- 4 pm. Come early and bring all documentation to avoid long lines

BRING THE FOLLOWING WITH YOU

*Photo ID with date of birth * Original certification cards for above steps 1-3

Certification Costs: Certification fee is $25.00 / Duplicate Certificate fee is $5.00

Original certification card must be posted at pool

Lifeguard I certification card expires in one year. You must update you must update expired water skills

class, First Aid and CPR for your certification to be valid.

Providers and course locations listed on the back.

Requirements To become a lifeguard I in Louisville metro you must be 16 years of age and complete

the following 5 Steps:

Once you have completed and passed the above components STEP 5: Written test administered at The Department of Public Health and Wellness,

400 East Gray Street, Louisville, KY 40202.

1 7

Step 1 Basic Lifeguarding All applicants must

have current certification in a

basic lifeguarding course.

American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/ky/louisville

502-589-4450YMCA’S of Greater Louisville

http://www.ymcalouisville.org/ 1-800-872-9622

Ellis & Associates International Lifeguard Training Program www.kentuckykingdom.com Online only for information

Lifeguard Current for 2 years

YMCA LG Current for 2yrs.

Ellis LG/First Aid/CPR/AED License Current for 1 year

STEP 2 First Aid

Must have Adult, Child and infant

First Aid components.

American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/ky/louisville

502-589-4450American Heart Association

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/ 1-800-242-8721

American Safety & Health Institute First Aid http://www.hsi.com/

1-800-447-3177National Safety Council

http://www.nsc.org/products_training/Pages/Home.aspx 1-800-621-7619

First Aid Current for 2 years

Heartsaver First Aid : Current for 2 years

ASHI Basic First Aid /Basic First Aid COMBO: Current for 2 years

NSC First Aid Adult, Infant and Child Current for 2 years

STEP 3 CPR

Must be a professional rescuer

CPR that includes Adult, Child, and

Infant CPR components

Online classes: same as above

American Red Cross http://www.redcross.org/ky/louisville

502-589-4450American Heart Association

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/ 1-800-242-8721

American Safety & Health Institute First Aid http://www.hsi.com/

1-800-447-3177National Safety Council

http://www.nsc.org/products_training/Pages/Home.aspx 1-800-621-7619

CPR/AED For Professional Rescuer Current for 2 Years

AHA BLS Healthcare & Professional Rescuer Current for 2 years from date

of issue ASHI CPR Pro for Professional

Rescuers: 2 yrs. Basic Life Support Healthcare

Provider Current for 2 years from date of issue

STEP 4 Water swim test/lecture

Water swim test/lecture At a local swimming pool reserved by the division for this course You must register for this course: 502-574-6650

You must take the Guard course water swim test/lecture every year to

obtain a Lifeguard I certification.

STEP 5 Written test

Written test at Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness

400 East Gray St. Louisville KY 40202 502-574-6650

You must take the written test every year to obtain a Lifeguard I

certification.

*Online classes are often referred to as “blended courses” and must have physical skill out with a certified agency instructor

American Red Cross Providers: Jewish Community Center – www.jewishlouisville.org – 502-459-0660

Lakeside Swim Club – www.lakesideswim.org – 502-454-4585 Louisville Metro Parks – www.louisvilleky.gov/MetroParks/recreation/ – 502-897-9949

Kentuckiana Pool Management – kentuckiana-pmg.com - 502-394-9759 ELITE Pool Management – elitepoolmanagement.business.site – 502-333-5703

University of Louisville – www.RalphWrightNatatorium.com – 502-852-1681

1 8

Lifeguard II Certification Requirements

To become a lifeguard II in Louisville metro you must be 19 years of age and complete the following 5 Steps:

STEP 1: BASIC LIFEGUARD TRAINING:

STEP 2: FIRST AID:

STEP 3: PROFESSIONAL CPR for LIFEGUARDS:

STEP 4: GUARD COURSE: Administered by The Division of Environmental Health and Emergency Preparedness Lifeguard Training and Certification Program. Register for the water swim test/lecture by calling 502-574-6650.

Once you have completed and passed the above components STEP 5: Written test administered at The Department of Public Health and Wellness,

400 East Gray Street, Louisville, KY 40202.

Lifeguard II requirements: 1.) Maintained Lifeguard I status with the Division for the previous consecutive 3 years; 2.) Documented evidence (on letterhead from your employer) of a minimum of 24 weeks

on the job experience as a Lifeguard I. 3.) Advance recommendation from a Board of Health Lifeguard Instructor.

Certification Testing Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM – 4:00PM

Peak season testing: May 13-June 7, 2019 Test administered in the Forum on the first floor

Monday - Friday 8:30 am.- 4 pm. Come early and bring all documentation to avoid long lines

BRING THE FOLLOWING WITH YOU

*Photo ID with date of birth * Original certification cards for above steps 1-3

Certification Costs: Certification fee is $25.00 / Duplicate Certificate fee is $5.00

Original certification card must be posted at pool

Lifeguard II certification expires in 3 years, you must update expired water skills lass, First Aid and CPR for your certification to be valid.

Providers and course locations listed on the back.

1 9

ADVANCEMENT RECOMMENDATION FOR LIFEGUARD II

I hereby state that:

Lifeguards Name

Meets the following Lifeguard II Requirements:

- Has Maintained Lifeguard I status with the Division for the previous consecutive 3 years- Has Documented evidence (on letterhead from your employer) of a minimum of 24

weeks on the job experience as a Lifeguard I- Advance recommendation from a Board of Health Lifeguard Instructor.

Board of Health Lifeguard Instructor Date

2 0

REPORT OF INCIDENT This form must be completed for any incident or rescue and forwarded to

Louisville Metro Department of Public Health & Wellness Attention: Swimming Pool Program

400 East Gray Street Louisville KY 40202

All incidents and/or rescues requiring transportation to a hospital or other advanced medical care must be reported by phone to the health department within 2 hours (If you reach a voice mail, leave a message that you are reporting an incident) and in writing within 24 hours to: email to lmphwlifeguard@louisvilleky.gov.

- Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness at 502-574-6650 Fax: 502-574-6657- Kentucky Environmental Management Branch at 502- 564-4856 Fax: 502-564-3653

GUARD INFORMATION Board of Health Certificate #:

Name: ________________________________________________Age_________

Guard Notified: Management _____ Police _____ Fire Department _____ EMS _____ Other

FACILITY INFORMATION DATE OF INCIDENT: TIME OF INCIDENT:

Pool Name:

Address:

Management Contact Name/Phone#:

Weather Conditions: Air Temperature: Water Temperature: Visibility:

Sunny and clear _____ Sunny with partial cloud coverage _____ Cloudy _____ Rain, no lightning ______

Rain with lightning _____ Electrical Storm _____ Other _____________________________________________

INJURED PERSON/VICTIM: Gender:

Name: Age: Phone#:

Address: City: State: Zip:

Phone #

Hospital_____ Parent_____

Name of Family Member Notified:

VICTIM RELEASED TO: Normal Activities_____ Home_____

EMS called: YES _____ NO _____ Time of EMS arrival: __________

After rescue, EMS or family member transported victim to:

Witnesses Information: Please provide the name, address, and phone numbers of two witnesses

Name: Phone#:

Address.

Name: Phone#:

Address.

2 1

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS _____participating in Unsafe Behavior (i.e. fighting, running, drinking, drug use, etc.)

Specify Behavior if not listed:

_____Defective Equipment (i.e. floats, inner tubes, rafts, etc.)

Specify Defective Equipment if not listed:

_____Lack of Knowledge or Skill (i.e. non-swimmer, not knowing depth, etc.)

Specify Lack of Knowledge or Skill if not listed:

_____Water-Entry Injury (i.e. diving into shallow water, striking bottom of pool, jumping off side, etc.)

Specify Injury if not listed:

_____Pool Deck/Facility Related Injury (i.e. slippery walking surface in facility, falling over equipment)

Specify Injury if not listed:

RESCUE INFORMATION:

Type of Injury/Rescue: Tired Swimmer _____Distressed Swimmer _____Submersion _____Spinal ______

Equipment Used for Rescue: Rescue Tube _____ Resuscitation Device _____ None _____

Other Equipment used:

Victim Location in swimming pool: Conscious Top _____Unconscious Top _____Unconscious Bottom _____

Other Location in facility:

Area of Injury: Head_____ Neck_____ Arm_____ Hand_____ Trunk_____ Leg_____ Foot_____

Other area of injury:

Type of Injury: Abrasion/Cut _____ Burn _____ Bleeding _____ Contusion _____ Allergy Related _____

Insect Bite _____ Puncture _____ Excessive Bleeding _____ Previous Condition _____

Choking _____ Laceration _____ Sprain _____ Strain _____ Possible Internal Injuries _____

Possible Fracture/Dislocation/Broken Bone(s) _____ Other type of Injury: _________________________________

Type of Action Taken/First Aid Given/Emergency Care Provided:

Name of Employee Care Giver: ______________________ Employee Completing Report: ______________________

Signature: Date:

Management: Date:

2 2

LIGHTNING SAFETY AT SWIMMING POOLS WHEN THUNDER ROARS... GO INDOORS!

(Applies to Indoor and Outdoor Pools)

Every year, lightning strikes and kills people on or near bodies of water. Summer is the peak season for outdoor and water-related activities, and when most lightning deaths and injuries occur. Vulnerable locations include: beaches, indoor and outdoor pools, diving boards, lifeguard stands,and nearby outdoor recreational facilities.

The United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service recommend the following swimming pool safety procedures:

• Designate a responsible person as the weather safety lookout. That person should keep an eye on theweather. Use a "weather radio", the Weather Channel or other TV program to obtain local weatherinformation. Staff can attend on line free National Weather Service SkyWarn™ basic storm spotter

• training to enhance weather awareness. http://www.weather.gov/

• Determine the distance of lightning from a location by using the “flash-to bang rule”. Begin countingat the sight of the lightning flash. Stop counting at the sound of related thunder. Divide the count byfive(5) to determine the proximity in miles of the lightning strike.

(5 seconds = 1 mile; 50 seconds = 10 miles, etc.).

• It is generally recommended that patrons be notified and advised of the closest safe shelterlocations such as fully-enclosed buildings that are grounded with wiring and plumbing or fully-enclosed metal vehicles (no soft top convertibles) when thunderstorms move within 10 miles.

• Activities at the swimming pool can resume after 30 minutes of NO lightning or thunder detected!

2 3

FIRST AID KIT REQUIRE MENTEvery swimming pool shall be equipped with a complete standard first aid kit, or its equivalent, the contents of which shall be kept in a clearly marked, airtight container. Supplies shall be sufficient to keep the minimum items continuously stocked. The following list is adapted from the Model Aquatic Health Code, and it is recommended that these items be included:

1

1 161 10 6 4 2

1

6

First Aid Guide Absorbent compress, 4 x 8 in. minimum (206 sq. cm) Adhesive bandages, 1 x 3 in. (2.5 x 7.5 cm) Adhesive tape 2.5 yd. (228.6 cm) Antiseptic treatment applications, 0.5 gm each Burn treatment applications, 0.9 gm each Sterile pads, 3 x 3 in. minimum (7.5 x 7.5 cm) Pair medical exam gloves (Do not use latex gloves. Vinyl or nitrile and non-powdered)

Triangular bandage, 40 x 40 x 56 in. minimum (101 x 101 x 142 cm) Antibiotic treatment applications 0.5 gm each

*First Aid Supplies shall also include but not be limited to the following:

Large absorbent compress [at least 8 x 10 inches (200 x 250 mm)] Scissors for removing clothing, bandages, etc. 2 Elastic raps [2-inch by 15-feet (50 mm by 1500 mm)] Emergency blanket Resuscitation equipment (CPR protector with one-way valve or bag and pocket mask) OSHA Bloodborne pathogen protective equipment and bodily fluid cleanup kit. Biohazard Bag Disinfectant (ex. Calcium hypochlorite packet – 1 oz.) Absorbent materials or fluid solidifier (~20gm.) Scoops for solidified material Scraper Instructions for use. It is suggested that a kit be assembled, put in a container and sealed to assure the contents are still intact when needed. After use, a new kit is provided or the container is restocked and resealed.

2 4

CLEANING UP BODY FLUID SPILLS ON POOL SURF ACESBody fluids, including blood, feces, and vomit are all considered potentially contaminated with bloodborne pathogens or other germs. Therefore, spills of these fluids on the pool deck should be cleaned up and the contaminated surfaces disinfected immediately. Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) should be worn during cleanup

Bleach

One of the most commonly used chemicals for disinfection is a homemade solution of household bleach and water. Since a solution of bleach and water loses its strength quickly, it should be mixed fresh before each clean-up to make sure it is effective.

Recipe for Bleach Disinfecting Solution 9-parts cool water1-part household bleach- Add the household bleach tothe water.Gently mix the solution.

• Block off the area of the spill from patrons until clean-up and disinfection is complete.• Put on disposable gloves to prevent contamination of hands.• Wipe up the spill using paper towels or another absorbent material and place

in a plastic garbage bag.• Gently pour bleach solution or other disinfectant onto all contaminated areas of the

surface.• Let the bleach solution remain on the contaminated area for a contact time of• 20 minutes For other disinfectants, follow instructions provided for contact time.• Wipe up the remaining bleach solution or other disinfectant.• All non-disposable cleaning materials used such as mops and scrub brushes

should be disinfected by saturating with bleach solution or other disinfectantand air dried.

• Remove gloves and place in plastic garbage bag with all soiled cleaning materials.• Double-bag and securely tie-up plastic garbage bags and discard.

A listing of other approved commercial disinfectants can be found at:• http://www.epa.gov/oppad001/chemregindex.htm• http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/ode/germlab.html.

These disinfectants are effective when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2 5

APPROPRIATE DISINFECTANTS

CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE USING BLEACH SOLUTION

OTHER DISINFECTANTS

BLOODBORNE PATHOGEN EXPOSURE INCIDENT REPORT FORM Name: Date:

Facility:

Date of Incident Time of Incident

Location of Incident

Potentially Infectious Materials Involved:

Type of Material

Source of Material

Circumstances Involved in Exposure:

Type of Work being performed:

How Exposure Occurred:

Personal Protective Equipment Used:

Action Taken (Decontamination, Reporting, etc.)

Recommendations for Avoiding Repetition:

Report completed by Date

2 6

RECREATIONAL WATER ILL NESSESIllnesses that are spread by swallowing, breathing or contacting contaminated water are called recreational water illnesses (RWIs). Typical RWIs include ear aches, rashes and diarrhea. RWIs generally are not severe, but in rare cases they can result in serious outcomes including pneumonia, neurological damage and even death.

Gastroenteritis stomach ailment that causes diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain is one of most commonly documented RWIs. It occurs when feces are released into the water and swallowed by other swimmers before having been killed by chlorine or another disinfectant. Cryptosporidium The parasite that causes most gastroenteritis outbreaks. It can remain infectious even when exposed to disinfectant levels for several days; therefore, people suffering from diarrhea should not enter the water. Those diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis should not enter recreational water for 2 weeks after symptoms have ceased.

FECAL INCIDENT RESPONSE RECOMMEND ATIONSDuring orientation or in-service training, your facility should provide training on how to respond to accidental fecal releases (AFRs). If an AFR occurs, you should direct all patrons to leave all of the pools that use the same filtration system. Remove as much of the fecal material as possible with a scoop or net, trying not to break formed stool apart. Dispose of the feces using sanitary procedures. Do not vacuum the feces. Clean and disinfect the scoop and net and then place them in the pool during the following disinfection procedures.

FORMED STOOL (VOMIT)• Continue to operate the filtration system.• Adjust the pH to below 7.5.• Raise the free chlorine level to at least 2 ppm.• Maintain those levels for 30 minutes before re-opening the

pool.

2 7

Diarreha

Patrons are unlikely to contract RWIs by swallowing, breathing or contacting pool water contaminated by vomit or blood. The vomit that a person produces after swallowing too much water probably is not infectious; however, if a person vomits and it contains any solid matter or food particles, you should respond the same way as you would to a formed stool incident.

CDC Fecal Response Requires a Fecal Incident Log. Contact LMPHW for a fecal log document. For more information go to:

www.cdc.gov/healthwater/swimmer/pdf/fecal-incident-response-guidelines.pdf

WHAT DO I DO ABOUT...DIARRHEA IN THE WATER?A diarrheal incident is a high-risk event for contamination caused by Cryptosporidium (or “Crypto”), an extremely chlorine-tolerant parasite. When disinfecting the water following a diarrheal incident, pool operator should hyper-chlorinate or raise the free chlorine to a high level for a long period of time. Step 1: Close the aquatic venue to swimmers. If you have multiple venues that use the same filtration system ALL of the venues will have to be closed to swimmers. The venue(s) must remain closed until the hyperchlorination process is completed. Step 2: Remove as much of the fecal matter as possible, using a net or bucket and dispose of the fecal matter in a sanitary manner. Clean and disinfect the item used to remove the fecal matter, after cleaning, leave the net or bucket immersed in the water during. hyperchlorination DO NOT USE VACCUUM TO REMOVE FECAL MATTER FROM THE WATER Without Stabilizer With Stabilizer (Cyanuric Acid) Step 3: Using a chlorine shock, calcium hypochlorite, raise the water’s free chlorine to 20ppm and maintain ph at 7.5 or less. Check pH and cl with test strips designed for these chemical levels

Step 3: IF THE CYANURIC ACID CONCENTRATION IS MORE THAN 15 ppm lower the concentration to 1–15 ppm by draining and adding fresh water to dilute the stabilizer before attempting hyperchlorination. Cyanuric acid chlorine stabilizer slows the rate at which free chlorine inactivates or kills Crypto, the more stabilizer there is in the water the longer it takes to kill Crypto.Once the cyanuric acid concentration is 1–15 parts per million (ppm):* Raise the free chlorine to 20 ppm and maintain it for 28 hours

Step 4: Maintain chlorine at 20 ppm with pH at 7.5 or less for 13 hours (28 hours if using Stabilizer). Step 5: The filtration system must be operating properly while the water reaches and is maintained at these chemical levels. Step 6: After 13 hours (28 hours if using Stabilizer) backwash the filter thoroughly. Be sure to discharge backwash directly to sanitary sewer. When appropriate, replace the filter media. Step 7: Allow swimmers back into the water only after hyperchlorination has been completed per above steps, free chlorine is 1.0 ppm-2.5 ppm and pH level is 7.2 -7.8.

POOL DISINFECTION TIME CHARTS Giardia Inactivation Time for Formed Stool Crypto Inactivation Time for Diarrheal Fecal Incident Chlorine Levels

(ppm) Disinfection Time

1.0 45 minutes 2.0 25 minutes 3.0 19 minutes

Chlorine Levels (ppm) Disinfection Time

1.0 15,300 mins. (255 hours) 10 1,530 mins. (25.5 hours) 20 765 mins. (12.75 hours) 40 383 minutes (6.5hours)

These closure times are based on a 99.9% inactivation of Giardia cysts by chlorine, pH of 7.5 or less and a temperature of 77° F (25°C) or higher. The closure times were derived from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Disinfection Profiling and Benchmarking Guidance Manual. These closure times do not take into account “dead spots” and other areas of poor pool water mixing.

CT inactivation value is the concentration (C) of free chlorine in ppm multiplied by time (T) in minutes (CT inactivation value = C x T ). The CT value for Giardia is 45 and the value for Crypto is 15,300 (pH 7.5 or less and a temperature of 77 F or higher) If you choose a different free chlorine concentration or inactivation time, you must ensure that the CT values remain the same. For example, to determine the length of time needed to disinfect a pool after a diarrheal incident at 15 ppm, use the following formula: C x T = 15,300. Solve for time: T= 15,300 ÷ 15 ppm = 1020 minutes or 17 hours. It would take 17 hours to inactivate Crypto at 15 ppm.

2 8

Lifeguard Skills Checklist Qualified Attendant Skills Checklist Pre-Course Skills Water Test Pre-Course Skills Water Test

100 Freestyle 100 Freestyle Standing or Swimming 100 Breaststroke Object recovery in 5 ft. depth 100 Choice (Freestyle or Breaststroke) 15 yards Underwater Swim Tread Water 5 minutes - 2 minutes legs only Object recovery in 9 ft. depth

ENTRIES ENTRIES Stride Jump with rescue tube Compact Jump Slide-in with rescue tube Slide-in Compact Jump from Lifeguard Chair - optional

APPROACHES APPROACHES Approach stroke on a rescue tube Walking or Swimming Front Crawl Feet First Surface Dive

RESCUES RESCUES Active Victim - Front Active Victim – Front & Rear Active Victim - Rear Simple Assist Passive Victim - Front Passive Victim - Rear Passive Victim - Rear Submerged Victim Submerged Victim Water rescues without equipment Two Person Removal with Backboard Two Person Removal with Backboard

DEFENSES AND ESCAPES DEFENSES AND ESCAPES Front Huggie or Submerged Defense / Front & Rear Escapes

Front Huggie or Submerged Defense / Front & Rear Escapes

REACHING AND THROWING ASSISTS REACHING AND THROWING ASSISTS Extension-Reaching pole (Optional) Extension-Arm, leg, and using a Reaching pole Throw with Ring Buoy (Optional) Throw with Ring Buoy

Throw with rescue tube (optional) SPINAL INJURY MANAGEMENT SPINAL INJURY MANAGEMENT

Shallow Water Stabilization – Face up Shallow Water Stabilization - Face up Shallow Water Stabilization - Face down Shallow Water Stabilization - Face down Shallow Water Stabilization - Standing Shallow Water Stabilization - Standing Shallow Water Backboarding

CPR & FIRST AID SKILLS (review only) CPR & FIRST AID SKILLS (review only) Obstructed Airway - conscious victim Obstructed Airway - conscious victim Obstructed Airway - unconscious victim Obstructed Airway - unconscious victim Adult Ventilations Adult Ventilations Child and Infant Ventilations Child and Infant Ventilations Adult, Child, and Infant CPR-One Rescuer Adult, Child, and Infant CPR-One Rescuer Adult CPR - Two rescuers Head, Neck, and Back Injuries on land Head, Neck, and Back Injuries on land

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STUDY GUIDE FOR WRITTEN TESTWHAT IS NEEDED WHEN YOU COME TO GET YOUR PERMIT • You must be at least 16 years of age to be a Lifeguard or Qualified Attendant• Bring a picture ID that has your birth date every time.• Know your social security number• Know the location and date of your BOH yearly water test or Pool Side Rescue class• $25.00 cash, check or credit (VISA, MasterCard, Discover: NO DEBIT CARDS)• Bring wallet certification cards for Lifeguard, First-Aid

( NO COPIES OR CELL PHONES IMAGES )

SEVERAL REASONS THE BOARD OF HEALTH CLOSES A SWIMMING POOL • No Lifeguard or Qualified Attendant on duty while people are swimming. You must be in position to see the entire pool

bottom and surface for effective surveillance. It is against the regulation to be swimming with the patrons, eating your lunch,a break, talking on the phone and cleaning up around the pool if you are the only Lifeguard or Qualified Attendant on duty.

clear the pool and deck of all patrons, put up the closed sign, and lock the gate before doing any of the above mentioned activities.

• You cannot see the main drain because the water is too cloudy or the main drain cover is missing or broken.• The disinfectant system is not working.• Two consecutive positive water samples. The water samples are tested for bacteria.• Your pool has been closed because of violations, you cannot reopen until you obtain permission from the

Health Department.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION • All accidents (incidents) must be reported to the Health Department. Drownings, near drownings and any incident

that requires EMS response and transport must be reported within 24-48 hours.• Backwashing filters - Is a reverse flow of water to remove particles and dirt that collects in the filters. The reversed flow of

water is discharged as waste. When to backwash - when the flow meter or pressure gauge is showing an increase in pressure• You enter the water to make a rescue and you ask another lifeguard on duty to watch your zone of water: this is

backup coverage.• Take shelter in an enclosed building during lightning and thunderstorms.• The area of greatest danger for spinal injuries is the shallow end of the pool. Always suspect a spinal injury if the victim is

submerged in shallow water, unconscious, head trauma or is bleeding from the ears and nose. Stabilizing a spinal injury victim on the back board is called in-line stabilization.• Always use the rescue tube when entering the water for a rescue to provide flotation for you and the victim and to keep th

victims head above water.• Always post the original permit you receive from the health department. DO NOT COPY the permit. Duplicates cost $5.00.

• Frequent in-service trainings should include mock drills, physical conditioning and review of First aid and CPR.

WATER CHEMISTRY• Disinfectant: Kills bacteria• Types:• BROMINE – Use mostly in hot tubs and spas: Free available bromine must be: 2.0 ppm - 2.5 ppm• CHLORINE – use in swimming pools: Free available chlorine comes in liquid sodium hypochlorite or

tablet/powder/or granular calcium hypochlorite and must be: 1.0 ppm - 2.5 ppm• Always wear PPE when handling hazardous materials• WHEN TESTING FOR CL: Must be done before opening and at least 3 times each day during all hours of operation• TEST FOR THE FOLLOWING: Free available, total CL and combined CL• COMBINED CL - Is CL plus ammonia which forms chloramines, causing eye irritation, strong smell. If combined

CL reading is greater than .2 ppm, you need to superchlorinate (shock the pool water).• SHOCKING THE POOL: increase the CL level to 5.0 ppm to 10.0 ppm which causes a chemical reaction

(breakpoint), turning the chloramines into a gas released into the air and eliminates combined chlorine.• Always put bromine or chlorine in the brominator/hypochlorinator, never hand feed directly into the pool water• pH: Acidic or Basic (Alkaline) Nature of Water• Testing pH - Scale 0 to 14, below 7: your water is more Acidic, above 7: the water is more Basic Ideal range: 7.2 - 7.8• To raise the pH: add soda ash. To lower the pH: add muriatic acid• High pH (Basic) causes eye irritation, scaling and cloudy water. Low pH causes eye irritation and corrosion.• Total Alkalinity: Influences the stability of pH – Needs to be checked weekly:

Health department reading: 50 ppm – 180 ppm

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Map location of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness 400 East Gray Street, Louisville, KY 40202

• Testing and processing of Permits will take 30-60 minutes• More time will be required during the busy season (May-mid June)• Testing times: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

You must arrive at the health department NO LATER THAN 4:00PMto take test and process permit!

Muhammad Ali Blvd. (one way street)

Chestnut Street (one way street) University Hospital

Gray Street (two-way street) Meter Parking: $ .25 for 9 minutes

American Red Cross

Broadway Street (two-way street)

Louisville Metro Department of Public Health & Wellness

400 East Gray Street Louisville KY 40202

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