Code
LIFEGUARD SUPERVISOR training shall include, at a minimum, the following:
1) Activation and execution of EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS (EAPs),
2) CPR/AED and first aid training that complies with MAHC Sections 6.2.1.1.3 and 6.2.1.1.4 or present an unexpired certificate issued by an AHJ-approved agency documenting the required training has been completed;
3) Scanning and vigilance requirements and how to ensure that systems which accomplish these goals are in place and operational;
4) Development and evaluation of zones of BATHER surveillance responsibility diagrams for an AQUATIC VENUE;
5) MONITORING lifeguard performance as it relates to lifeguard and facility-specific training, including pre-service assessments;
6) Strategies to reduce risk and mitigate the health and SAFETY hazards to both the PATRONS and the staff;
7) Knowledge of the legal issues and responsibilities relating to lifeguarding as listed in MAHC Section 6.2.1.1.5; and
8) Knowledge of the proper use and maintenance of the equipment required per MAHC Section 5.8.5.
Annex
As of the writing of the MAHC, lifeguard supervision and management training courses are limited. In the development of the MAHC, the MAHC recognizes the importance of ongoing AQUATIC VENUE supervision with adequate training in injury prevention and response. What constitutes supervisor and management training was heavily discussed. The concept of “supervisor training” lends itself to far more than simply MONITORING lifeguards and performing essential functions of the lifeguard as needed. Required skills for the supervisor include staff management skills, emergency response, decision making, knowledge of aquatic industry STANDARDS, etc. This list is obviously not comprehensive. This leads to a main concern in the development of a LIFEGUARD SUPERVISOR course which is course content and length. Training agencies are encouraged to develop a system of training LIFEGUARD SUPERVISORS that incorporates the critical components of supervising lifeguards and responding to incidents in an AQUATIC FACILITY as these items directly affect BATHER SAFETY. This may include a variety of levels that address this information in various ways and as appropriate for the intended audience of each level course. The skills and knowledge found in this section are considered by the MAHC to be essential to any LIFEGUARD SUPERVISOR training course, regardless of intended depth of scope. The course outline and requirements mirror that of the lifeguard training course requirements.
LIFEGUARD SUPERVISORS need to have knowledge beyond that of the lifeguard training program. The LIFEGUARD SUPERVISOR is responsible for keeping the lifeguard accountable for their own performance and as such should MONITOR scanning and vigilance within the zone of PATRON responsibility. As situations occur, the LIFEGUARD SUPERVISOR will also need to react to reduce risk while they understand the legal responsibilities of the job.
Due to the nature of the content in the LIFEGUARD SUPERVISOR training, it is possible for this content to be delivered in person or online utilizing various methods such as video and interactive media to establish competency.