✅ 5 Daily Equipment Checks Every Certified Pool Operator Should Be Doing
Introduction: Why Daily Equipment Checks Matter
Running a public pool involves much more than managing chlorine levels. As a certified pool operator, your daily inspections play a critical role in protecting swimmers, maintaining legal compliance (e.g., Ontario Regulation 565—Public Pools), and ensuring the facility runs safely and smoothly.
At AquaSafe Pro Training, our Pool Operator Level 1 course—certified by the Lifesaving Society of Ontario—prepares aquatic professionals to confidently handle these daily responsibilities.
Here are five essential daily equipment checks every trained pool operator should perform to reduce risk and enhance aquatic safety.
1. ✅ Check Pool Water Chemistry and Disinfection Levels
Why it matters: Proper water balance isn't just about swimmer comfort—it's about disinfection and illness prevention.
What to check daily:
Free chlorine and combined chlorine levels
pH range (ideally 7.2–7.8)
Alkalinity and calcium hardness
Temperature, especially in spas or therapy pools
Automated feeder functionality
➡️ Learn how to safely handle chemicals, balance water, and interpret readings in our Pool Operator Level 1 Certification course.
2. ✅ Inspect Lifesaving and Rescue Equipment
Why it matters: Rescue tubes, reaching poles, spinal boards, and first aid kits must be immediately accessible—and fully functional—during emergencies.
What to check daily:
No tears or cracks in rescue tubes or ring buoys
Spinal board straps intact and accessible
First Aid Kit full stocked
Reaching pole is in good condition
These topics are covered in our Aquatic Supervisor and Pool Operator Level 1 courses, reinforcing facility oversight responsibilities.
3. ✅ Walk the Pool Deck and Inspect for Hazards
Why it matters: Wet floors, cluttered walkways, and broken tiles increase the chance of slips, trips, and injuries.
What to check daily:
Clear walkways, no loose hoses or equipment
Dry deck surfaces or appropriate signage where wet
Missing tiles or cracked grates
Condition of stair rails, ladders, and grab bars
Pool operators trained through the Lifesaving Society Aquatic Safety Management courses (e.g., Aquatic Supervisor, Pool Operator Level 1) delivered by AquaSafe Pro Training learn how to spot and report these risks.
4. ✅ Verify Signage and Emergency Contact Information
Why it matters: Proper signage helps patrons understand rules, risks, and procedures. Missing or unclear signage is a regulation violation.
What to check daily:
Rules and safety signs are visible and legible
Depth markers and "No Diving" signs are in place
Emergency phone, numbers, and address are posted
All these requirements are part of Ontario’s Public Pools Regulation (O. Reg. 565)—which we cover in depth in our Lifesaving Society Pool Operator Level 1 course.
5. ✅ Test Emergency Systems and Backwash Schedules
Why it matters: The unexpected happens. Ensure your facility's filtration, fire alarms, and emergency exits are ready—every day.
What to check daily:
Alarms and emergency lights
Fire exits and access to safety equipment
Pool backwash cycles logged
Pump room readings consistent with safe operation
During our Certified Pool Operator training, you’ll learn how to document and interpret mechanical logs to keep your system running efficiently.
Why Train With AquaSafe Pro Training?
At AquaSafe Pro Training, we’re proud to offer:
Lifesaving Society–approved Pool Operator Level 1 certification
Aquatic Supervisor and Aquatic Manager courses for facility oversight
First Aid & CPR courses that reinforce onsite emergency response
Online and in-person options designed for flexible learning across Ontario
Whether you manage a community pool, swim school, or recreation centre, our courses are built to align with provincial safety standards and provide practical, job-ready skills.
✅ Conclusion: Small Checks, Big Impact
Daily equipment inspections are one of the most effective ways to prevent incidents, uphold water quality, and stay compliant with provincial safety standards. By performing these five checks consistently, pool operators contribute to a safer environment for both swimmers and staff.
⚠️ Please note:
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Pool operators are responsible for reviewing and complying with Ontario Regulation 565 – Public Pools and should consult their local public health unit for site-specific compliance requirements.