PLEASE NOTE: The information on this page has been superseded by new guidance - please do not follow any advice on this page. To view the latest guidance click here.  

13 May 2020

It seems a long time since RLSS UK lifeguards were keeping swimmers safe, it could be some time before we can return to swimming pools and venues. In the past seven weeks, we have worked tirelessly to provide support to operators, lifeguards, members and our customers, click here to read more about what we have achieved.

We are committed to continuing the support we provide, therefore, we have decided that it’s now time to move the focus and help the aquatic industry, by providing clear guidance to support operators planning and preparing to re-open swimming pools and venues.

We have been working closely with Swim England, Swim Ireland, Scottish Swimming and Swim Wales to look at guidance that operators need, from using changing rooms and showers, to ensuring swimmers can enjoy the water safely. We are proud that RLSS UK guidance, focusing on lifeguarding and safety, will support the whole leisure industry and will be signposted from the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMPSA) #StrongerTogether guidance.

We have also been working with the British Triathlon Federation and other key partners, to ensure that guidance spans across all leisure industries, including aqua parks, holiday parks, open water swimming venues, schools and lifesaving clubs.

RLSS UK are concentrating on providing guidance for the following areas:

• The role of a lifeguard
  • Supervising a swimming pool
  • Management of flumes/slides and other equipment
  • Cleaning
  • Other duties by lifeguards
  • Providing first aid
  • Carrying out a rescue
  • Providing CPR and using an AED
• Lifeguard Return to Work Competency Assessment
• Lifeguard ongoing training
• Equipment
• Swimming teachers providing supervision for swimming lessons
• Operating a lifesaving club
• Supervising an open water venue
• Safety and supervision within an aqua park facility

With the help of key partners, we have produced draft guidance that is being review by medical and legal experts. As soon as it is ready, we will publish it on our website and deliver webinars, to give explanations and offer a chance for questions.