Pools are fun. They offer a refreshing swim on a long, hot, summer day. Since the Roman times, people have enjoyed a customary swim in the public pool. Unfortunately, as fun as swimming in the pool may be, they are not all fun and games, especially when slip and fall accidents and drowning bring a clear and present danger to the potential fun of folks in the pool.
Similar to locker rooms, the side of the pool is fraught with dangers due to a large accumulation of water. The large amount of moisture creates very slippery conditions that make accidents more than likely to occur. Given the situation that most pool patrons are children and youths, the prevalence of horseplay increases these risks all the more.
Property owners are held responsible for all incidents that occur within their premises, especially the behavior of minors. It is prudent for property owners to conduct a safety risk assessment tackling the hazards of the pools and providing solutions in order to protect all of their patrons and also to protect themselves from potential liability suits that could happen after an accident. There are several precautionary methods that proprietors could implement in order to make their pool a fun, but safe place.
Waivers
Because accidental drowning and other accidents could happen within the vicinity of the pool, proprietors are advised to make patrons sign waivers in order to alert them of all the rules and regulations within the swimming area. These waivers serve as an agreement between the patron and the proprietors that the rules and regulations of the pool are understood. It also solidifies that any rule-breaking would mean that the patron is no longer within their rights in premises liability.
Waivers protect both patron and owner in a binding agreement. Insurance companies often suggest this to their prospective clients so that all the dangers and hazard in the facility has been made public. By signing a waiver, patrons do not relinquish their rights to suit. Actually, the waiver identifies the duties of the owner as well. In the event that the owner fails to comply with his responsibility, patrons are within their rights to sue for compensation.
Lifeguards
There are no better preventative measure in a pool than lifeguards. Lifeguards are necessary in running a pool, especially a large facility with a series of pools. Any rule-breaking and risky behavior can be immediately taken care of. Emergencies, such as slips and falls, can be responded to quickly.
Poolside Safety Matting
In addition to a human presence, pool mats protect patrons from hazard that come from the wet environment. Pool mats provide a dry, clean, and safe walking surface in an area in which water has completely soaked through making it very slippery. Effective pool mats are designed to drain water through it so that the top surface remain dry. Pool mats come in a variety of color and material, but one thing remains constant, they are anti-slip and anti-fungal.
Signage
Whether lifeguards are present or not, proper signage is essential in running this operation. Signs should always be clear about the pool rules and must always be visible. Signs are necessary to alert patrons about safety instructions and potential threats. Signs serve as a warning so that patrons are aware of the possible dangers in their surroundings.
Proper Implementation of Pool Safety Tips
The proper implementation of pool safety tips will lead to a better and easier management of the facility. Combining safety measures of locker room and pool mats, lifeguards, and signs, patrons can be assured that their stay can be both fun and safe at all times.
References:
http://www.education.vic.gov.au/hr/ohs/hazards/swimmingpools.htm
