SECTION 1. COMPANY INFORMATION
This handbook is only a guide to rules and ethics of operations of
JAZZIE Pools.
History: Jazzie, is
a midsized pool company in Northern Virginia. LOCATION, 429 S. Maple Ave.,
Falls Church, VA 22046; ph. 703-532-0242, 800-316-LIFE #77;
Fax 703-532-1381,
web.jazziepools.com and our e-mail is heather@jazziepools.com or gwen@jazziepools.com. Directions:
yahoomap.com or 11/2 mile 29 & 7 (inside beltway); across from bowling
alley, next to Fairfax Auto Parts. A MUST
read before the first day of work. PLEASE call or visit from Feb. 15 to
Oct. 1. However, accounting (which
includes the payroll department) is open from 9:00 A.M. to 5 P. M. Monday thru Friday ONLY. Due to the nature of the business, it is
necessary to leave messages on phone devices or with a service company. Leave
specific pool operational issues in writing in the log. In emergencies, such as accidents, media events,
crowd control, illness, etc. call. Be
specific with the service, and they will page our alpha pagers. Your message is
just a moment from us. Remember it is
not necessary for us to acknowledge that we receive every call. Action is taken immediately, so be reassured
that we can and will respond. Be
confident we hear you, and we know you do your best.
" Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."
Colossians 3:23
SECTION 2. EMPLOYMENT POLICIES
AND PROCEDURES
Qualifications,
Job Descriptions, Application Information
The decision to hire is based upon the job description & the
certifications you stated you have. You must, prior to actually starting work,
provide to the office copies of current acceptable certifications (i.e.,
Lifeguard, CPR, Pool Operators Certificates). If it is found that you do not
actually have the credentials you stated, you will be subject to dismissal and
the pay rate for any hours worked will be reduced to the U.S. minimum wage
rate. Jazzie guards must have current Lifeguard training, Standard First Aid
& CPR/PR, & pool operators card.
The Health Departments require you have your cards with you at the pool
(copies are acceptable, although copies are also to be on file either at the
pool or in our office). An application
which consists of: W-4 Federal Tax Exemption, State Tax Exemption forms, I-9
form with documents, Health form, Child support, signed pool confirmation form
and benefits sign-up form, must be on file.
Due to the nature of work it is required that you notify us of your
unusual health conditions in writing prior to employment. Any incidents of
workplace violence or reported drug use is mandatory drug testing and may
require psychological tests. We strive to keep our employees. We encourage
other employees to report on the job incidents about fellow workers, even if
"accidental" in nature. All employees
are encouraged to take de-escalation techniques, post-accident and post
termination with our EAP.
Rates of Pay:
The pay rate is based on the qualifications you demonstrate. A manager
will state the pay rate, and it may be changed if the employee is unable to
perform. It must be signed by an owner
and submitted to the office before any pay checks are processed.
Substitute guards, or part-time guards, are required to perform the same
tasks are fixed guards. They could
receive a higher pay rate, but are not subject to bonuses or incentive
programs, that fixed locations guards have. This because a substitute guard
agreed to go wherever needed, is providing transportation, and faces the
possibility of days when no work will be available. To avoid any confusion the
substitute guard is defined as a person "who calls the office each day for
the/her assigned location and provides their own transportation to the assigned
pool." Occasionally a guard will work regularly and on an assigned schedule at
two (or more) pools, yet this does not make such a guard a substitute guard.
When a guard works a preset schedule, this is a fixed location guard and no
additional pay is made for that guard.
Peers are not to discuss pay only with a supervisor, and this is ground
for probation or dismissal. Gate guards
or managers are not included in "guards incentive programs." Any changes to a pay rate are made by the
office only. A supervisor cannot change
a pay rate. Again, an Authorization/Acceptance Form, or payroll change status
form, will be used to establish any pay rate changes. The form establishes the
date that a change is effective and the rate, and is processed by payroll
administration.
Work Schedules
Unless you are a substitute guard, you are assigned weekly or monthly
work schedules. If you are not sure of your schedule, it is your responsibility
to call and check. Also the hours of operation of your pool will be posted at
the pool (in the logbook or filter room). At some pools you may be scheduled to
begin work prior to the opening time of the pool or to stay after closing time.
Generally, this would be for clean up purposes. Note, you will only be paid for the hours you are scheduled, unless
special authorization for extra hours has been given by the office (refer to
Authorization Process for Non Scheduled Hours). If at any time your relief shift person does not show up in a
timely manner you must stay until the supervisor or relief arrives. IF YOU
LEAVE A POOL OPEN AND UNATTENDED then this is grounds for
termination. Once terminated only
reinstated is with a new confirmation contract and an accepted apology for
behavior.
You must notify the managers/supervisors about subs and shift changes
24 hours in advance of the planned shift change. They will do spot checks.
Time Sheets
A time sheet is kept at the pool. It is your responsibility to sign in
and sign out the shift. Your manager/supervisor will check these for accuracy
& then pick up errors, i.e. failures to sign in, or signing out after the
pool has closed. Your failure to fill in a time will result in no pay for that
day (days), and can be corrected the following pay period. NO payroll checks
are issued between pay runs. Falsification
of a time sheet, rewriting a time sheet and not saving the original, or filling
in another guard's hours will result in dismissal. In the event of rain you sign out the time the pool closes. This permission is given to you by a
manager. A "phone call in system" then
that will be in addition to the sign-ins.
But the responsibility of keeping track of time worked is the
responsibility of the employee.
Authorization Process for Non Scheduled Hours
Should a situation develop which calls for you to work more hours than
scheduled for that day, you must obtain authorization. A pool manager
cannot give the authorization for overtime. If no one is there obtain
authorization by calling the office and explain the reason why you feel
additional hours are needed. If approved, you will be given permission. When
extra hours are worked, they must be cleared by the pool company from the
management company for the property, as the property wants an explanation for
the extra hours worked. IF YOU HAVE NOT OBTAINED VALID AUTHORIZATION YOU WILL
NOT BE PAID FOR ANY SUCH NON SCHEDULED HOURS. EXAMPLE: GETTING THE POOL READY
IN SPRING (PRIOR TO, THE OPENING DAY)
Preparations for the pool are done by the service staff. However, there
are the last "get ready" things to accomplish. Usually; vacuuming the
pool; cleaning the deck, bathrooms, stocking supplies (paper hand-towels,
liquid soap, etc.); placing pool-side furniture, filtration, chlorine
equipment; stocking chemicals and balancing the pool water. If an item is missing opening day, call us,
open the pool and we will send it immediately.
Usually the opening should require only a few hours of work. You get
minimum wage for the "get-ready" process. If you find that you need
service back, you must get an authorization from the office. Note: without an
authorization from one of the owners, service does not come back.
Uniforms
BE IDENTIFIABLE. You are
expected to maintain appearance and hygiene.
Lifeguards must wear a LIFEGUARD labeled swim suit (Men-red trunks-
women a one piece red suit) & whistle.
You may purchase items: suits, lanyards, "T" shirts, sweat shirts, and
cover-up shirts. This provides ready
identification to swimmers that you are a guard on duty. Shirts, etc., are
purchased from JAZZIE Pools and can be paid for either when received or the
cost can be deducted from your first paycheck. Matching Tee shirts, sweat
shirts, jackets, are available. If you wear a shirt while on duty, it must be a
guard marked shirt or JAZZIE Pools T‑shirt. Suits should be marked with the JAZZIE logo, so the patrons can
identify you. Hairstyles are to be conservative and not interfere with
vision. Boys are not to wear body
jewelry, and girls are asked to limit ear jewelry to one earring per ear in the
lower lobe. This is so you will not be
hurt in a save from a gabbing victim.
LATENESS/ABSENCE AND EARLY TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT
Be prompt (that is 15 min. before your shift begins). Arrive at the pool BEFORE and remain at the
pool until your shift is completed. Lateness will not be tolerated. The users
of the pool and the owners of the pool facility are counting on you being on
duty when you are scheduled. If you arrive late (Late is DEFINED AS being there
one minute after the opening time), not only can it cause the pool facility not
to be open for use by people who are paying for the use of the pool, but often
the on-site management will call us to report a "no show." When this
happens, we usually will dispatch a substitute guard to cover your shift. This
is a serious waste of time and also reflects negatively on you. Should this
happen, the substitute guard will work your schedule for that day and you will
lose a days pay. Remember, the substitute guards often drive a considerable
distance at their own expense and it is not fair to send them back simply
because you were not responsible in getting to your pool on time. Being late
can also result in a negative write up, perhaps termination, and perhaps no
bonuses. In the rare event of a real emergency which requires you to not work an assigned
time, it is your responsibility to find an acceptable substitute and report
this to the office. This is a fire, hurricane, sever thunder storm, blizzard
etc. The sub must be accepted by JAZZIE Pools. There is never a valid reason
for not calling the office to inform us.
Failing to show up is a serious offense and will result in immediate
termination. In addition, it is agreed
that any guard who is late or who misses a day without proper notice, as
specified above, has authorized JAZZIE Pools to make a $25.00 penalty deduction
from their paycheck.
Suspension or Denial (Non-hirable Status)
This is an internal office statement, with the notation of discipline
attachment, for employees which have offended the rules of the company that
they are not allowed to work. It may be
reviewed and appealed.
Termination:
For a pattern of behaviors, or a
single inexcusable event that violate the ethics of Jazzie you may be asked to
leave employment. If you are tardy you
may be asked to sign-in with the supervisor or manager present. Three unexcused lateness are grounds for
termination. If there is a pattern of
"calls in sick" without written verification of sickness from a doctor, or if
you miss 5 days in a year for sickness, you may be terminated.
Paychecks:
In all instances you will be paid seven days after the end of the pay
period. This is necessary processing time. For example, the pay period is from
the Thursday thru the Thursday every two weeks. However, once you are working regularly, this will still result
in a paycheck being issued every 14 days.
Again you must sign in for the shift.
No "sign in", no pay. You get
your pay check by picking it up at the pool in the front of the log book. Paychecks are delivered to the pools or
mailed out to the address you provided on your employment application (YOUR
MUST ASK FOR THIS). Normally, you will
need to allow approximately two days for mail delivery. If you have moved or
wish to change the address for receiving your check, remember you must notify the
office. A replacement paycheck will
only be issued if you authorize the company to deduct a stop payment fee on the
missing check. The fee is $25 and you
are charged. Supervisors or managers
only can pick up paychecks for staff from the office. It is not possible for employees to pick up paychecks from the
OFFICE. SUPERVISORS MAY DROP CHECKS BY
THE POOL DURING THEIR NORMAL ROUTINE INSPECTIONS. Should you feel there is an error in your pay, you must tell your
manager, they will file a form for correction. A payroll verification form will
be submitted to the payroll department listing the information you have
provided. Someone from the payroll
department will then respond to you on the next working day. You can
make sure your paychecks are received on time by making sure time sheets are
filled in properly (PRINTING NEATLY YOUR NAME, and HOURS ETC.), giving the
office your correct mailing address, and having any other forms required
submitted on a timely basis. And, make sure the office has a copy of your
Social Security number & certs. A paycheck cannot be issued unless you have
cooperated by supplying the information needed. The time sheets should not reflex hours the pool is closed (like
rain times) as these are not paid for hours.
None is to: change, take home, or leave the property with a TIMESHEET OR
ANOTHER PERSON’S PAYCHECK.
ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES
Harassment Policy
Jazzie Pools is a company committed to the integrity of the workplace.
Jazzie does not condone or tolerate any form of sexual harassment or offensive
inappropriate sexual conduct toward either sex. Action will be taken to prevent & correct behavior that
violates this policy. The actions will
be: first offense is an oral and written reprimand and automatic reassignment;
second offense is demotion or termination.
If the harassment is serious we will suggest to properties & staff,
that 911 be called, and appropriate criminal action taken. Behavior can be inappropriate touching, or
lifting, or picking up each other, in "play".
No horseplay is allowed with fellow staff members.
We recognize federal and state measures protect individuals from
harassment including other unlawful conduct in attitude and behaviors. The specific behaviors which are felt to be
objectionable should be reported in writing to the supervisor and owners
immediately (i. e., first 48 hours after the incident).
Theft on Job:
Jazzie is to be notified by a call when a robbery occurs: in the pool
area; car in parking lot; or to a patron.
If your car is robbed, or illegally entered when it is parked on a
property for employment purposes, it is to be reported to security immediately
after the robbery, and to be filed as an incident in the log book, and police
called. When a patron misses an object
note it in the log, and file an incident’s report, and call 911 if needed. Jazzie is not responsible for auto, personal
possessions left in auto, or electronic devices or machines left on properties.
Smoking, Drinking, Drugs:
Most properties are smoke free.
In the event a guard is old enough to smoke, it must not be
done on smoke-free properties. If the
property allows it, then smoke only in locations that are designated and you
must be of age. There is no staying on
property after hours for the purpose of socializing or smoking, unless you are
a member of the pool. You are not to
bring drugs, alcohol, guns or dangerous objects on properties. An express consent to test for drugs is part
of employment and random testing is done.
Alertness: Employees
need to be alert and pay attention.
Avoid goofing off, gossiping, mingling (such as playing with or swimming
with) the patrons, phone usage or reading while persons are swimming. These behaviors do not promote respect, and
can result in serious injury or accidents.
No loud language or foul words are appropriate.
Bonus and Incentive pay
All incentive pay, or bonus pay, is calculated after LABOR DAY. The bonus pay program is based on: beginning
the season, working, and ending the same season with the Jazzie. It is for the commitment to the company for
the season. If you join the company
after the season starts, or leave before the season ends, it is at the
discretion of the Jazzie to consider you for a bonus. Bonus pay is not retroactive.
Meritorious work is then the determining factor. We are looking for commitment to
Jazzie. Jazzie balances service against
problems at the facility that you are assigned to, and your innovations to
relate positively Jazzie with your communities.
Other Incentive Programs:
Jazzie has scholarship programs for employees and for guards who come
from other countries. These guards have their handbook printed in their
language. Ask about our education and
benefit programs.
SECTION 3. SPECIFIC DUTIES
Lifeguard Responsibilities for Safety:
1. Guard the swimming pool
safely.
2. Follow directions from the
manager or supervisor.
3. Check with the properties
protocols or operating procedures.
4. Perform maintenance chores
as described.
5. Maintain proper chemical
balances and chemical record sheets in accordance
with County Health
regulations.
6. Maintain authority and
regulations over the pool environment.
7. Relay all pertinent
information to your manager or supervisor.
Pool Manager’s Responsibilities
for Safety (see specific terms of your contract):
In addition to the above, a
pool manager also has the following responsibilities:
1. Maintaining contact with Owners representative, & supervisor
of pool company.
2. Coordinating scheduling of hours with budgeted, and supervising
time sheet entries.
3.
Seeing that
employees arrive to work on time, & pool is promptly opened and closed
as scheduled. Assigning the
morning, midday and evening duties.
MANAGER AND GUARD BEHAVIOR:
1. Pool personnel using the facility.
The pool staff cannot use the pool before or after hours except for
authorized events scheduled with or by the Owner
or pool company (i.e., swim lessons,
in-service).
2. The pool staff
CANNOT bring relatives or friends to the pool.
3. WHILE YOU ARE
WORKING do not carry on conversations or be distracted in sense of safety for
the pool.
4. Smoking, eating,
reading, or card playing is prohibited while on duty and on the property. All food items are to be consumed only in
areas designated for this.
5. Guards on duty,
wear a guard’s uniform.
6. Sit in the
appropriate guard chair whenever there are patrons in the pool.
7. Do not use
electronic devices at any time in the pool area without permission.
8. Open and close
the pool at assigned hours.
9. Use of alcohol or
drugs while on duty, reporting to work inebriated, buying alcohol and using it
at your break will be cause for IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL, and random drug &
alcohol testing is done. All employees agree to these, and criminal record checks.
MAINTENANCE DUTIES:
These duties are to
be shared by ALL employees (Patrons are not allowed to perform cleaning
duties). Remember safety first.
Bathhouse
Maintenance:
1. Bathhouse must be cleaned every day with
emphasis on the entrance clean and neat.
2. Keep bathrooms supplied with soap, paper
towels and toilet tissue.
3. Disinfect with Chlorine etc. showers and
fixtures, floors, etc.
4. Check bathhouse, or fitness room HOURLY to
maintain cleanliness. Wipe mirrors.
5. Keep
the trash emptied, i.e. when bag ˝ full replace it at night.
6. Keep patrons’ sign‑in table clean and
clear of other items
7. Pick up areas in front of bathhouse for
trash, glass and other debris each HOUR.
8. Raise the flag if appropriate.
Pool Maintenance:
1. Vacuum pool bottom and/or brush bottom daily
prior to use.
2. Clean waterline tiles daily.
3. Empty Skimmer Baskets daily.
4. Maintain proper PH and chlorine residuals
and maintain records in accordance
with county health
regulations.
5. Backwash filter system when pressure
differential is high or if flow rate is low.
6. Clean hair and lint strainer each time you
do a backwash.
7. Check operation of chemical feeding
equipment.
8. Bleed air from filter tanks periodically.
9. Keep filter room clean and floors dry. Do
not put dry chlorine directly on a floor NEVER store acid near chlorine;
Refer to MSDA package an OSHA requirement
10. Make sure the proper water level is
maintained in the pool.
Closing Time Maintenance:
1.
Turn off all: fill spouts that adds water to the pool.
2.
Take down or
tie umbrellas, store under tables or in the guards’ office.
3.
Clean deck
area, hose or bucket as needed. Straighten furniture.
4.
Empty
trashcans, those in the guard’s area too.
Put at curbside night before pick up.
5.
Confirm the
accuracy of timesheets, and call supplies etc to office.
6.
Brush walls and floor of pool.
7.
Lock all doors and gates and try them to assure locked. (or security
systems).
CHEMICALS
Take the required readings.
Normally this is done on an hourly basis and the results recorded in the
Weekly Operating log. This is a HEALTH DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENT. THEY WILL ASK TO SEE CERTS WHEN INSPECTING
THE POOL. If adjustments are called
for, or you need to go to the pump room for the health department clear the
pool. You must exercise proper caution
in adding chemicals to the pool water. Never take a chance on injuring a
swimmer by making a chemical addition in such a way that a heavy concentration
of a particular chemical is in a specific area of the pool where someone either
is swimming or can swim into them. If you are at all unsure of the proper
method of handling a chemical and making a water balance adjustment, call the
office for instruction or, if the adjustment is not critical and need not be
done immediately, ask your supervisor when that person arrives at your pool.
All chemicals are supplied by JAZZIE Pools. Liquid chlorine is
delivered on an automatic delivery basis, i.e., according to the size of the
pool and weather conditions. A chlorine delivery is automatically set for your
pool. However, many factors affect chlorine use and should you find that you
are running low on chlorine (down to approx. 25 gals or one/half of a vat on
hand), call. Remember, the Health
Department can close the pool for not having proper chemicals on hand. So, it
is important to keep a close eye on your chemical supply. When the delivery truck arrives sign the
slip, and you log it in the operational log.
If acid is delivered make sure it is properly stored, i.e., not in the
sun by the gate but in the guard room or room for it, but NOT NEAR
THE CHLORINE.
All other types of chemicals must be ordered (this includes test kit
reagents). Therefore, you need to call the office and let them know what you
need. Try to give several days notice.
SAFETY GEAR ( GLOVES, GOGGLES AND APRON must be worn. Always use proper storage and handling
procedures for your own safety and that of the pool patrons.
REPAIRS/SERVICE
It is JAZZIE Pools responsibility to contract with the property company
to maintain the pool and pool equipment. If you notice anything regarding the
condition of the pool, decking, or equipment that you feel is not in proper
condition or you suspect is beginning to break or wear out, call the office. We will advise the property. You can and
need to discuss such matters with your supervisor. However, anything that
requires immediation action i.e.., the
pump stops running or chlorinator is not operable, call the office immediately
and wait further instructions.
· Pool
Maintenance
· Club
house Set-up
·
Staff Meeting
Opening Day/School Day Operations
·
Memorial Day Weekend
·
School Day Operations
· Rotation
· Log
Book – Documentation & Forms
* * if apply
Lessons
PRE – SEASON PREPARATION
On your initial
visit to the Jazzie Pools office, you will be issued keys to the facility you
are managing along with the names and telephone numbers of your staff and the
club representative to whom you will need to introduce yourself. At this point,
Jazzie Pools has officially turned the pool over to you. Now that you are
responsible for the entire facility, you should visit your pool immediately.
Your primary objective is to make an exhaustive review of the facility in order
to compile a list of notes and related questions for Jazzie Pools and your club
representative to answer. For example, note any repairs and equipment/supplies
needed, questions regarding facility operation and club procedures.
Jazzie pools can
answer any mechanical or physical plant related questions, however, a number of
the questions (i.e. member sign-in, equipment rental, swim tests, guests, fees,
etc.) will be best answered when you meet with the club representative. The
club representative should be able to answer any questions regarding membership
procedures. If you are not confident operating your filter system, please talk
to your manager for Jazzie pools to schedule a time for us to review the system
with you and discuss any peculiarities it may have.
Each manager is
required to hold a pre-season meeting (usually held on the Thursday, Friday or
Saturday preceding opening day with the staff and the club representative prior
to opening day. The purpose of this meeting is to formally introduce all staff
members to each other, review Jazzie pools policies /procedures, discuss
expectations you have of your staff, and most importantly, review and conduct
your emergency rescue plan.
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The staff is expected to remain at the pool after the
meeting in order to help ready the facility for opening day (6 hrs).
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POOL MAINTENANCE
When we
have officially "turned" the pool over to you, we are no longer making regular
pre-season visits to the pool. The pool will turn green algae growth) on you
very quickly if you leave it unattended, thereby requiring a tremendous amount
of time and energy just to get it back to the condition you last left it in.
This, in turn, will take time away from getting your pool in general order for
opening.
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IF YOU CANNOT
VISIT YOUR POOL AT LEAST EVERY OTHER DAY, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO NOTIFY JAZZIE
POOLS.
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Plan about 20
hours of work prior to opening day.
Staff members (i.e., your assistant and the balance of the guards)
should only be putting in 5 – 10 hours at most prior to opening day. This may
only change in situations where you the manager, are unable to put the hours in
that are required or if it has been approved by Jpools.
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Although you end goal is to have all aspects of the
facility operational for opening day, you must chlorinate, vacuum and brush
down the walls at each visit to our pool.
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CLUB HOUSE SET UP
Restrooms: Both the
men’s’ and women’s’ restroom floors should be swept, cleared of all debris and
scrubbed with a combination chlorine and water solution. This application
should be done AGAIN the night before opening day. IN ADDITION:
·
Scrub all toilets and urinals
·
Clean all mirrors
·
Stock all paper towels and toilet paper
· Fill
all soap dispensers
Deck and Pool Area:
Ensure that all deck areas are
free of debris/trash, hoses are coiled, trash cans are positioned appropriately
throughout the facility and all pool furniture (chairs, chaise lounges, tables,
etc.) is clean and distributed to the proper areas.
Guard Office/Front Desk:
The first impression one receives
when entering a pool is the appearance and order of the guard office/front desk
area. Designate areas in the guard office/front desk that will accommodate all
guard belongings. If there are areas,
such as a large pump room of guard office where your belongings can be secured
then it is expected you do not leave them at the greeting or
front desk area.
Jazzie Pools Log/Lesson Books,
first-aid supplies, test kits, can be in the area. If you feel you do not have
adequate provisions on site, please express this to your club representative so
that we may assist you in acquiring these items.
Make the guard office look appealing. Be creative ! Put
together a staff biography that includes photographs of each staff member, hang
tasteful posters, etc. Also be positive with a verbal "hello, good morning."
All pertinent Lifeguard certifications for each staff
member as well as your emergency plan must be posted in the guard office prior
to opening day. ALSO
Swim lessons posters and school operating hours should be posted in
a high traffic area. Make sure that the Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) is on file and readily available in pump room.
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in case of a chemical emergency.
¨ PRE-SEASON STAFF MEETNG
Each employee expects a meeting at 9:00 a.m. the Saturday
prior to opening day unless they are instructed otherwise by you. Contact all
of your staff members in order to find out their availability before calling
the club’s representative. This will give you a better idea of when to
coordinate your meeting if Saturday morning is not good for your club
representative.
Emergency Drills
Make certain that prior pre-season staff meeting / club
representative meeting that you have determined the Emergency Rescue Plan (ERP)
for your facility. If you need assistance developing the ERP for you pool,
contact JPools and we will help you complete it. It is essential that EACH
staff member participates in all phases of the emergency drills. This will
require you to execute these drills a umber of times. Emergency drills must
also be practiced at each bi-weekly staff training meeting.
OPENING DAY/SCHOOL DAY OPERATIONS
¨ MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
Take
advantage of the first few days of operation to set the tempo for the season
and establish the standards you staff should uphold throughout the season. KEY
AREAS:
¨
Strict rule enforcement
¨
Front desk manner & telephone etiquette
¨
Facility up – keep / "BTJ" (see: Rotation)
¨
Attentiveness in lifeguard stand
First impressions are hard to forget. Walking in to a well
managed facility speaks for itself. Ensure that every aspect of the pool is
covered; all staff members properly uniformed, supplied and stocked bathrooms,
front desk order, coiled hoses, clean and spread pool furniture, etc.
Remember that Memorial Day Monday is considered a holiday.
Therefore, the pools will operate on HOLIDAY HOURS for that day.
¨ SCHOOL DAY OPERATIONS
The
first month of operation differs significantly from the remainder of the
summer. While schools are still in session, operating hours are abbreviated at
many clubs, swim team practices take place in the late afternoon and high
school students are still involved with exams, team sports and other school
obligations. Essentially, all aspects of the daily procedures are compressed
into an abbreviated form of the summer operation. This time period is intense, demanding and requires a tremendous
amount of effort from the management level.
Scheduling
For those pools operating Monday
through Friday on an abbreviated schedule, your guards should be averaging
approximately 10 hrs/week. Managers and
Assistants,
30 - 40 hrs/week. Managers will
try to accommodate exams, graduation, etc. AND Are AWARE of "senioritis!"
Cleaning Schedule/Vacuuming
It is incumbent on the Manager
and/or Assistant Manager to maintain a regular vacuuming schedule throughout
the week. Most high school students’ schedules do not permit them to be
available for vacuuming before the pool opens.
Swim Lesson Screening if it applies
Throughout the month of June, you
will be screening kids for proper placement in the group lesson program.
Establish times (on the hour or half hour_) that you will be screening.
Screening times should be stated on your lesson signage.
NOTE: Assisting Other Pools
If your pool is operation on an
abbreviated schedule and you or any of
your staff are available to work at other pools prior to our pools opening
time, please contact the Jazzie Pools office.
SUMMER OPERATION
The
last day of public school marks the beginning of a significantly different
environment at your facility. Swim teams practice in the morning with swim
lessons to follow. The entire staff is
available for full-time scheduling (including vacuuming). You will find that
your bathers arrive in manageable numbers rather than all at once.
Remember, last day of school –
Pools operate on SUMMER HOURS !
FAIRFAX COUNTY
LOUDOUN COUNTY
MANASSAS CITY
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY
Rotation
The Rotation, established by the
Head Lifeguard, refers to the movement of lifeguards from one work station to
the next. The rotation is comprised of guarding the pool, front desk control,
and general facility up-keep. The rotational schedule establishes the lifeguard
station each guard will occupy at any given point during the day and provides
for a systematic and equitable distribution of the workload. The time increment
(usually 15, 20 or 30 minutes) spent at each station is determined by the
activity level of the facility and the number of staff on duty. The acting
manager should not be a part of the rotation unless absolutely required !
What else?
The
portion of the rotation utilized to up-keep the facility when not in the front
desk station or guarding the pool. The acronym
BDT stands for:
Bathrooms …. . Need hourly
walkthrough or restocking
Duties …... …..A listing of tasks
(established by the head guard) for completion by day’ s end.
Trash …………Make trash runs of the
entire facility
WATER QUALITY TESTS MUST BE TAKEN
EVERY HOUR, ON THE HOUR, AS PART OF THE ROTATION.
¨ LOG BOOK – Documentation
& Forms
Jazzie Pools provides each pool
manager with a log book that contains a variety of forms necessary to document
each and every day of pool operations. This book must remain on site at all
times and be available to Jazzie Pools personnel, county health inspectors, and
club representatives. All requests for forms must be called into office to be
distributed to the appropriate parties.
Daily Profile/Water Quality
Test Results This is a two-sided form designed to record regular water
readings and provide a "snap shot" of the day. The "Water Quality Test Results"
side of this form is dedicated to recording hourly chlorine, bromine (if
applicable) and pH readings while the bottom of the page is the "Daily Profile"
and provides a check list (which are initialed) of who did what duties. Extra notes such as high bather loads,
weather conditions, noteable incidents, and substitutes used etc.are written on
the back. This form recreates a day, if necessary, and enables us to make
statistical analyses on the use of the facility. Test results must be posted
hourly on the "Water Quality Board" located at your facility. Please note that
each Wednesday you are required to record readings for total alkalinity,
calcium hardness and combined available chlorine on the bottom of the log
sheet. Any questions ask. Water Quality
Test Results Board. You are required to
present the "Water Quality Tests Results’ board in a conspicuous location for
public view. These dry-erase marker boards must be updated each hour of
operation. The purpose of these boards is to provide the public the current
water conditions at your facility.
Log Sheets or timesheets
If you require help in filling in
the log sheets to clock your hours at the pool you must ask. Must important is
putting your name (first and last) and time in and out.
We started a call in system in
2001 which helped guards who were new and could not fill in the times. The system requires you call
888-895-9939. We give managers signs to
post with the number and suggest it be kept by the phone. You merely dial, tell the operator the name
of your pool and your name. These sign
in logs are sent by fax to the office daily.
Then they are compared to the sign in logs and we try to catch
errors. We will not pay for hours if
you ignore the ways to track your time.
SECTION 4. SAFETY AND PROPER
POOL OPERATION
Maintaining Proper Authority
Pool managers and lifeguards maintain authority and respect over the
swimming pools. All patrons must be aware of the rules and regulations and must
obey them. Enforcing the pool rules consistently is best done by reading them
from the rules list. Do not scream at a patron, but rather use your whistle or
explain what he/she has done wrong. Discipline is consistent and reasonable. Do
not make threats. If a patron is a constant problem, discuss this. Write it on
form, and turn it in with timesheets (We must have names). Together with the
board of the property, we can solve such problems. Remember, be courteous and
respectful to ALL patrons. Threatening to injure, fighting, or touching a
patron is strictly prohibited and is cause for immediate dismissal.
Emergency help. Call the
appropriate authority like security, or 911 to maintain order.
Public Relations & Emergency Medical Procedures
Keep in mind that the patrons (people using the pool facility) are very
special and are our customers. In your role of maintaining authority and
controlling the pool, it is easy to lose sight of the simple fact or customer
sensitivity. Many pools are in neighborhoods where the users are also part
owners. Remember that if the customer is unhappy, they complain. So really
communicate with the patrons. Be sure
to acknowledge them when they arrive.
By keeping the pool user happy, you are making sure you will keep your
job. This does not mean that you should
not maintain authority or put up with unreasonable or abusive behavior. But, it
does mean that you: greet patrons in a friendly and courteous manner; listen
sincerely; write up reasonable problems; apply the enforcement of rules evenly;
and maintain the pool in a clean and safe fashion.
REMEMBER, THE FIRST 15 SECONDS IN A PLACE MAKES A LASTING IMPRESSION ON
A CUSTOMER.
Your supervisor and the office staff are part of your team. So the pool
must have your phone numbers, and it is your responsibility to go over the
specific pool policies with the manager.
If you are experiencing problems, let's work together to solve them. Let
your supervisor know what's going on, call the office and discuss anything you
feel you need assistance with. If you are doing your job, JAZZIE Pools will do
everything possible to back you up and help overcome any difficulties you are
having. Please do not forget that being shy can be misread as rude; and quiet
not perceived as a friendly person. Impolite is never an acceptable form of
behavior and does not solve problems, it only creates them.
Medical Procedures are taught in your lifeguard course and you are to
follow those recommendations without deviation. For a reference see the front of the log book at the pool.
Basic Pool User Rules & Gate Control
These rules are to be a
minimum standard used in
conjunction with the posted rules and regulations set by the individual pool.
1. If the property requires "sign in" then all persons who enter the
pool area must be check‑in with the gate guard and show the necessary
passes if one is required. The guard desk and entrance must be kept neat at all
times, and is off limits to patrons.
This means kids and adults cannot sit at the guards table.
2. Children less than 12 who wish to use the pool without adult
supervision must pass a swimming test given by the manager or guard. If they do
not pass, they cannot enter the pool without a parent. Maintain the Spa and sauna rules posted.
3. Do not allow food, drinks,
or cigarettes in the immediate pool area.
4. Allow only one person on the
diving board at time and only one person (the previous diver) in the diving
well (water in diving area) at a time.
Authority is given to close boards for safety that would be at maximum
capacity. Do not allow running, tag,
balls, pushing or any potentially hazardous games. No horseplay or swimming
games are ever allowed in the diving area.
6. Do not allow spitting in
the pool or on the deck.
7. Children more than eight are
not permitted in the wading pool. All others must be accompanied by and watched
by an adult.
8. Weak or non‑swimmers
are not to be allowed in deep water. It is your responsibility to know whether
a person can swim or not by giving a guard’s test.
9. Have an adult swim once
every hour for 15 minutes. This not only allows the adults to swim without interruption, but also gives the children a
needed rest period to warm up. When the
property objects then do it only do AS NEEDED.
10. Do not allow diving in the
pool other than into the diving well (8 feet deep or more). Diving and
jumping into the pool cannot be allowed as the risk is too great of slipping or
jumping into or onto someone already in the pool.
11. No bicycles, skateboards, roller blades, or pets of any kind in pool area.
Safety and Accident Prevention & Notification
The main concern of any lifeguard should be the safety and well being
of the patrons. The concern includes not only the swimmers in the pool, but
also the patrons using the facilities around the pool (bathhouse, lawn area,
decks, etc.). There are a number of
basic safety rules which a JAZZIE Pool’s employee must foster respect by
following order so creating the necessary safety and leisure conditions at the
swimming pool. Fire drills are done on
properties so and follow them. The same
procedures apply to a hazardous material or chemical spill.
1. Lifeguards are stationed in
available guard stands. The rule must be
observed even if there is only one swimmer in the pool. A violation of
this rule
is a cause for immediate dismissal.
2. While in the chair, you
attentiveness to the swimmers is of the utmost importance. Scanning
techniques will be used, & no cell or digital phones are to be used while
sitting your stand. You will not be
permitted to engage in conversation with patrons unless it specific direction
concerning pool business (i.e., reprimanding a patron for violation of a pool
rule, etc.). JAZZIE Pools has found
that to be a frequent violation committed by most guards. We understand the temptation to talk with a
friend, but keep in mind that most drowning occurred when the lifeguard was
distracted from the duties. No reclining in a guard chair (i.e., sitting with
legs over chair arms, etc.) is ever permitted.
3. NEVER LEAVE THE POOL
UNATTENDED AND UNLOCKED. If you are the only guard and you must use the
restroom or go into the filter room (or do anything that takes you away from
watching the pool) it is imperative that you clear the pool. You cannot take
the risk of being away from the pool when there are swimmers.
4. JAZZIE Pools employees who
are not stationed in the guard chair are responsible for patrolling the pool
area. Their concern should be maintaining order and sighting potential
hazardous conditions. Most accidents can be prevented if you take the time to
look for dangerous situations. When inspecting the area, look for the
following:
A. Loose: diving boards,
ladders handrails, and lights that are burned out.
B. Broken glass, nails, broken
skimmer tops, deck repairs, gates open, etc.
C. MAJOR contamination
problems. Finally, inspect the pool to
make sure all contaminations (fecal matter, blood vomit, etc.) Are removed,
checks to see that the chlorine reading indicates sufficient chlorine has been
added to reach the desired shock levels, and then, if the person was ill,
inspect the appropriate restroom to see if cleanup is required there. If
everything is then all right, reopen the pool for swimming. Refer to MSDS book if needed.
D. Broken: Deck furniture, signs, posts. They are to be removed immediately.
E.
Report any
blood spilled on the deck, or water immediately and take action.
The must be universal precautions, and disposable materials used to
clean area.
Special situations
In inclement weather the pool may close. You cannot close the pool, but you call your manager to get
permission to close. The properties
decide when the pool closes. Generally
one call is enough and the manager will call you back when there is an answer.
If there is vomit, fecal matter, or blood in the pool follow the county
codes for closure.
You must notify the manager and await instructions. These situations will result in temporary
closing of the pool, and you may be asked to stay on property or be "on call".
Thunderstorms: You may suspend
operation of the pool for 45 min. after you hear thunder or follow the local
county codes. During this time you are
to clear the deck. You are to stay at
the pool until a manager gives permission to leave.
SECTION 5. POOL INSPECTIONS
SUPERVISOR INSPECTIONS:
Your supervisor frequently inspects your pool. It is their
responsibility to make a complete inspection of the pool facility and note any
problems or deficiencies. However, it
is also your supervisor's job to work with you and help you to keep the pool
operating properly. Do not hesitate to discuss any problems you are
having. The supervisor is JAZZIE Pools
infield management representative and you are expected to follow directions and
requests your supervisor gives to you.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT INSPECTIONS
Our pool’s facility is inspected by the valuable services provided by
the local Health Departments. The local staffs are responsible for adhering to
those guidelines and regulation dictated by their respective health
departments. They will check: chemicals
in the water, your Certs, the Weekly Operating log for the past record of
chemical readings. In addition, the official will: look at the overall pool facility, equipment, chemical storage
concept, bathhouse or clubhouse, and the deck. However, remember they also will
be checking on you. Do you have your credentials with you? One of the most
frequent reasons a pool is closed is simply because the guards neglected to
carry their certification cards. Don't let this happen, make sure you have your
cards are with you. It is a good idea to post copies of cards in the filter or
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