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Pool attendant: Job description and activities

A pool attendant is responsible for keeping a close eye on the users of a swimming pool and associated facilities to ensure safe behaviour and assist with problems. If swimmers do get into difficulties, the attendant takes appropriate measures to rescue them and administers first aid. Some attendants also have responsibility for the safe and hygienic operation of the pool itself, including water testing, monitoring the levels of chemicals, heating and filtration.

Typical work activities include:

• watching over the pool to ensure that swimmers are not struggling or out of their depth;
• rescuing swimmers in trouble and administering any necessary first aid;
• enforcing all poolside rules and preventing unsafe behaviour;
• cleaning the poolside and other areas;
• supervising changing facilities;
• operating and checking poolside equipment and reporting faults.

Pool attendants need stamina and a good level of physical fitness. They must be strong swimmers with a life saving certification such as the Royal Lifesaving Society  National Pool Lifeguard Qualification or National Rescue Standard (NaRS) pool rescue certificates. Criminal records checks are required.

Many pools are run by local councils, and private companies, including health clubs, hotels and holiday centres, are also increasingly building and operating swimming and spa facilities.

For more information see Fitness centre manager.

AGCAS

Written by Colin Taylor, University of Cumbria

Last updated:

October 2009

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