Aquatic Staff Manual Policies, Procedures and Operations Version 4.23
Revised March 2023 © City of Toronto - Parks, Forestry and Recreation - Recreation Branch - Aquatics Reproduction by any means of materials contained in this manual is prohibited unless authorized by the City of Toronto. Information contained in the Aquatic Staff Manual is subject to change based on policy, legislation and/or collective bargaining. All requests can be directed to the City of Toronto - Parks, Forestry and Recreation - Recreation Branch Aquatics.
Table of Contents Welcome Letter ............................................................................................................. 9 Map of Toronto Wards ................................................................................................ 10 Location of Aquatic Facilities .................................................................................... 10 Section 1: Employee Policies, Procedures and Expectations ................................ 18 Employee Expectations ............................................................................................. 18 Qualifications ............................................................................................................. 18 Vision Requirement ................................................................................................ 21 Qualification Deadlines and Extensions..................................................................... 21 Reimbursement for Recertification of Qualifications .................................................. 21 Training...................................................................................................................... 22 Staff Training Descriptions ..................................................................................... 23 Self-Directed (ELI) Trainings .................................................................................. 25 Training Documentation ......................................................................................... 26 Pay for Training ...................................................................................................... 26 Staff Evaluations ........................................................................................................ 27 Performance Updates ................................................................................................ 27 Staff Discipline and Meetings .................................................................................... 27 Uniforms .................................................................................................................... 27 Staff Shift Change...................................................................................................... 28 Scheduled Program Times ........................................................................................ 29 Adapted and Inclusive Recreation Programs for People with Special Needs or Disabilities ................................................................................................................. 30 Media Relations and Media Friendly Sites ................................................................. 31 Shortage of Work ....................................................................................................... 32 Unauthorized Use of City Facilities and Resources ................................................... 33 Section 2: Aquatic Operations ................................................................................... 34 Safety and Supervision .............................................................................................. 34 Safety and Supervision Standards for Swimming Pools ........................................ 34 Within Call .............................................................................................................. 34 Safety Equipment and First Aid Requirements ...................................................... 35 Aquatic Staff on Off-Location Trips ........................................................................ 35 Administration ............................................................................................................ 36 Logbooks ............................................................................................................... 36 Daily Records Checklist ......................................................................................... 37 3
Additional Documentation Required ....................................................................... 38 Signs to be posted ................................................................................................. 38 Emergency Telephone Testing .............................................................................. 39 Facility Information..................................................................................................... 39 Facility Cleanliness ................................................................................................ 39 Pool Fittings Inspection Procedure (16.1) .............................................................. 39 Safe Water Management ....................................................................................... 41 Designated Areas................................................................................................... 43 Facility Equipment .................................................................................................. 43 Patron Rules .............................................................................................................. 46 Age Requirements for Change Room Use ............................................................. 46 Patron Behaviour and Pool Rules .......................................................................... 46 Breath Holding Activities and Games ..................................................................... 46 Patron Bathing Attire .............................................................................................. 47 Toplessness in Public Pools and Parks ................................................................. 47 Breastfeeding Protocol ........................................................................................... 47 Section 3: Emergency Procedures ............................................................................ 48 Minor Emergencies .................................................................................................... 48 Major Emergencies and Critical Injuries .................................................................... 48 Emergency Signals .................................................................................................... 49 Whistle Signals....................................................................................................... 49 Verbal Signals ........................................................................................................ 49 Lifeguard Hand Signals .......................................................................................... 49 Primary Lifeguard Hand Signals............................................................................. 50 Secondary Lifeguard Hand Signals ........................................................................ 50 Roles and Responsibilities ......................................................................................... 51 General Procedures................................................................................................... 52 Pool Clear .............................................................................................................. 52 Re-entering the Pool .............................................................................................. 53 Spinal Board Strapping .......................................................................................... 53 Safe Lifting Techniques – Removal from Water ..................................................... 53 Patient Transportation ............................................................................................ 53 Emergency Phone Procedures .................................................................................. 54 Sequence of Call .................................................................................................... 54 Use of a Cell Phone for Emergency Purposes ....................................................... 54 Accident and Incident Reporting Procedures ............................................................. 54 4
Minor Injury / Incident ............................................................................................. 54 Major Emergency ................................................................................................... 55 Submitting Reports................................................................................................. 56 Follow-up Procedures ................................................................................................ 56 After a Major Aquatic Emergency........................................................................... 56 Employee Assistance Program (EAP).................................................................... 57 Self-Care ................................................................................................................ 58 Non-Aquatic Emergencies ......................................................................................... 58 Anaphylactic Reactions .......................................................................................... 58 Electrical System Malfunction ................................................................................ 58 Fire Alarm .............................................................................................................. 58 Workplace Violence ............................................................................................... 59 Section 4: Instructional Programming ...................................................................... 60 Instructor to Participant Ratios ................................................................................... 60 Instructional Program Guidelines ............................................................................... 61 Administrative Responsibilities .................................................................................. 62 First Day of Lessons .............................................................................................. 62 Mid Term Expectation ............................................................................................ 62 Paperwork .............................................................................................................. 63 Lessons Changes Due to Pool Closure ................................................................. 65 Class Management .................................................................................................... 65 Screening ............................................................................................................... 65 Formations ............................................................................................................. 65 Teaching In and Out of the Water .......................................................................... 66 Time Management ................................................................................................. 67 Games with Aims ................................................................................................... 67 Policies, Procedures and Guidelines ......................................................................... 67 Washroom Escort Procedure ................................................................................. 67 Diving and Diving Boards ....................................................................................... 67 Guard Chair Use (Rescues) ................................................................................... 68 Tot Docks ............................................................................................................... 68 Use of Equipment................................................................................................... 69 Leadership Courses Delivered Through a Contract ............................................... 69 Advance Levels and Leadership Courses ................................................................. 70 Advanced Classes ................................................................................................. 70 Contact in CPR Practice ........................................................................................ 70 5
Guidelines for Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross Courses ................................ 70 Swim Synchro ........................................................................................................ 71 Section 5: Aquatic Fitness Programming ................................................................. 72 Roles and Responsibilities ......................................................................................... 72 Aquatic Fitness Instructor ....................................................................................... 72 Pool In-Charge ....................................................................................................... 72 Lifeguard ................................................................................................................ 72 Ratios ........................................................................................................................ 73 Screening .................................................................................................................. 73 Teaching In and Out of the Water .............................................................................. 73 Uniforms .................................................................................................................... 74 Aquatic Fitness Equipment ........................................................................................ 74 Assessments ............................................................................................................. 75 Quality Assurance Assessments ............................................................................ 75 Emergency Procedures ............................................................................................. 75 Class Time Management ........................................................................................... 75 Qualifications ............................................................................................................. 76 Aquatic Fitness Class Descriptions............................................................................ 76 Section 6: Leisure Programming – Indoor and Outdoor.......................................... 78 Lifeguard Supervision Requirements ......................................................................... 78 Admittance and Wristband Policy .............................................................................. 78 Requirements for Day Camps/Groups ....................................................................... 79 Facility Swim Test ...................................................................................................... 80 Lane Swim Programs ................................................................................................ 80 Staff Expectations ...................................................................................................... 81 Lifeguard Requirement ........................................................................................... 81 Maximum Period of Time a Lifeguard Directly Supervises Swimmers ................... 82 15-5 Rule ............................................................................................................... 82 Minimum Number of Staff on Deck ........................................................................ 82 Rotation Procedure ................................................................................................ 83 Use of Lifeguard Stations ....................................................................................... 83 Scanning ................................................................................................................ 84 Distractions ............................................................................................................ 84 Swimming during Off-Deck Rotation ...................................................................... 85 Leisure Equipment ..................................................................................................... 85 Items on Deck or in Water ...................................................................................... 85 6
Leisure Equipment Rules ....................................................................................... 86 Outdoor Pool Operation ............................................................................................. 88 Pool Closure Due to Weather ................................................................................ 88 Extreme Heat Warning - Extended Hours Program ............................................... 89 Section 7: Wading Pool Operations........................................................................... 91 Opening the Wading Pool .......................................................................................... 91 Disarm the alarm .................................................................................................... 91 Cell Phone Check .................................................................................................. 91 Clean Wading Pool Basin and Surrounding Area................................................... 91 Wading Pool Patron Rules & Signage .................................................................... 91 Filling the Wading Pool .......................................................................................... 92 Adding Chlorine...................................................................................................... 92 Continued Filling of the Wading Pool/Completion of Administrative Tasks/Securing Wading Pool Equipment ......................................................................................... 92 Water Clarity .......................................................................................................... 93 Mid-Day Drain ............................................................................................................ 93 Closing the Wading Pool ........................................................................................... 93 Open the Drain ....................................................................................................... 93 Clean area, Gather Equipment while the Wading Pool is Draining ........................ 93 Store Equipment and Secure Wading Pool Area ................................................... 94 Emergency Phones ................................................................................................... 94 Wading Pool Attendant Supervision .......................................................................... 94 Emergency Procedures ............................................................................................. 94 Clearing the Wading Pool ...................................................................................... 94 Minor Emergency Response Plan .......................................................................... 94 Major Emergency Response Plan .......................................................................... 95 Section 8: Permits ....................................................................................................... 96 Permit Holders without NL Qualified Coaches ....................................................... 96 Permitted Instructional Requirements ........................................................................ 96 Operational Procedures for Self-Guarded Permits .................................................... 97 Important Definitions .............................................................................................. 97 Permit Holder with NL Qualified Coaches .............................................................. 97 Scuba Diving Permits ............................................................................................. 98 Sign-In and Qualifications Check ........................................................................... 98 Permit Orientation and Emergency Procedures Requirement ............................... 98 Appropriate Attire ................................................................................................... 99 7
Code of Conduct .................................................................................................... 99 Incidents ............................................................................................................... 100 Use of Pool Equipment ........................................................................................ 100 Replacements ...................................................................................................... 100 City-Wide Response to Non-Compliance ............................................................. 100 Appendix .................................................................................................................... 101 Appendix A: Aquatic Fitness Class Equipment ........................................................ 101 Recommendations ................................................................................................... 101 Appendix B: Recreational Water Illness................................................................... 104 Appendix C: Participant Minor Injury / Incident Policy.............................................. 105 Appendix D: Heat Stress Safe Working Procedure.................................................. 108 Aquatics SWP for Heat Stress.................................................................................. 108 Purpose ................................................................................................................... 108 Background ............................................................................................................. 108 How to use the OHCOW Chart ................................................................................ 108 Heat Hazard Response Plan ................................................................................... 109 Responsibilities ........................................................................................................ 110 Supervisors Shall: ................................................................................................ 110 Workers Shall: ...................................................................................................... 110 Requirements .......................................................................................................... 110 Training Requirements ......................................................................................... 110 Work Requirements ............................................................................................. 110 Appendix E: Heat Stress Hazards ........................................................................... 112 Appendix F: The Humidex ....................................................................................... 113 Appendix H: Standard Skill Performance – Guarding when Clothed ....................... 119 Appendix I: Standard Skill Performance – Deepest Point Retrieval ......................... 122 Appendix J: Staff Injury Procedures......................................................................... 123 Appendix K: Critical Injury Communication Flowchart ............................................. 126 Appendix L: Work Refusal ....................................................................................... 129
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Welcome Letter Welcome to the City of Toronto's Aquatic Team You have chosen a rewarding employment opportunity - are you up for the challenge? A lot is expected of you, but you will also get much in return. As a City of Toronto Aquatics staff member, safety is your first priority. Remaining vigilant, attentive, and alert at all times while on duty is essential. Public education is a requirement of all who work in the aquatic community. All Aquatic staff have an obligation to educate patrons and the community about the hazards and risks associated with activities in, on and around water. Messages such as, “Keep your children within arms' reach”, “Always swim with a buddy” and “Always wear your Lifejacket” are important to the public beyond the confines of their local pool. These are lessons that could one day save someone’s life. This manual, in conjunction with staff training and other City of Toronto resources will provide you with important information about policies and procedures that will enable you to successfully assume the responsibilities of a member of the aquatic staff team. You are responsible for being thoroughly familiar with the contents of this manual. It is also important to know how to get clarification or further information needed from other sources including your Supervisor and Community Recreation Programmer. If in doubt, please do not hesitate to ask!
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Map of Toronto Wards
Location of Aquatic Facilities PARKS, FORESTRY AND RECREATION CONTACT NUMBERS General Information – Phone General Information – Website Registration Hotline Corporate Security Assistance
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311 or 416-392-CITY (2489) from outside City limits toronto.ca/parks, toronto.ca/swim 416-396-7378 416-392-6666
ETOBICOKE YORK DISTRICT INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – CITY-OWNED Albion Pool and HC 1485 Albion Road 416-394-8676 Alderwood Pool 2 Orianna Drive 416-394-8738 Etobicoke Olympium 590 Rathburn Road 416-394-8810 Gus Ryder Pool and HC 1 Faustina Drive 416-394-8726 Humber Community Pool 205 Humber College Blvd. 416-394-6050 Memorial Pool and HC 44 Montgomery Road 416-394-8731 Norseman Community Pool 105 Norseman Street 416-394-8719 The Elms Community Pool 45 Golfdown Drive 416-394-8983 INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – TDSB Emery CI 3395 Weston Road 416-395-7950 C.W. Jefferys CI 340 Sentinel Road 416-395-7879 OUTDOOR POOL LOCATIONS Amos Waites 2445 Lakeshore Blvd. 416-394-8484 Domenico DiLuca 25 Stanley Road 416-395-0130 Driftwood 4401 Jane Street 416-395-6693 Eringate 121 Wellesworth Drive 416-394-8485 Fairhaven 100 Golfwood Heights 416-394-8486 Flagstaff 42 Mercury Road 416-394-8487 Gihon Spring 75 Gihon Spring Drive 416-394-8488 Gord and Irene Risk 2650 Finch Avenue West 416-395-6684 Lambton-Kingsway 37 Marquis Avenue 416-394-8489 Northwood 15 Clubhouse Court 416-395-6695 Oakdale 350 Grandravine Drive 416-395-0489 Ourland 36 Ourland Avenue 416-394-8490 Park Lawn 340 Park Lawn Road 416-394-8491 Pine Point 15 Grierson Road 416-394-8492 Richmond Gardens 44 Strathdee Drive 416-394-8493 Rotary 25 Eleventh Street 416-394-8494 Smithfield ** 175 Mount Olive Drive 416-394-8495 Wedgewood 17 Swan Avenue 416-394-8496 West Deane 19 Sedgebrook Crescent 416-394-8497 West Mall 380 The West Mall 416-394-8498 Westgrove 15 Redgrave Drive 416-394-8500 Westmount 22 Arcade Drive 416-394-8499 WADING POOLS LOCATION Birch Park Centennial Park Donald Russell Memorial Park Fairhaven Park Glen Park Marie Curtis Park
75 Arcadian Circle 256 Centennial Park Rd 400 Kipling Ave 100 Golfwood Hts 44A East Glen Cres 2 Forty-Second St 11
Mimico Memorial Park Prince of Wales Park Rexlington Park Summerlea Park Sunnydale Park Sunnylea Park
75 Hillside Ave 1 Third St 10 Bergamot Ave 2 Arcot Blvd 50 Amoro Dr 195 Prince Edward Drive
NORTH YORK DISTRICT INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – CITY-OWNED Antibes CC 140 Antibes Drive Cummer Park CC 6000 Leslie Street Douglas Snow AC 5100 Yonge Street Dennis R. Timbrell RC 29 St. Dennis Drive Leaside Memorial Gardens 1073 Millwood Road North Toronto Memorial CRC 200 Eglinton Avenue West INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – TDSB Bedford Park CC 81 Ranleigh Avenue George S Vanier SS 3000 Don Mills Road West Northview Hts. SS 550 Finch Avenue West Victoria Park CI 15 Wallingford Road York Mills CI 490 York Mills Road OUTDOOR POOL LOCATIONS Broadlands CC 19 Castlegrove Blvd Glen Long CC 35 Glen Long Street Goulding CC 45 Goulding Avenue Grandravine CC 23 Grandravine Drive Irving W. Chapley CC 205 Wilmington Avenue Lawrence Heights CC 5 Replin Road Leaside Park Outdoor Pool 5 Leaside Park Drive Ledbury Outdoor Pool 160 Ledbury Avenue Mitchell Field CC 89 Church Street North Toronto Memorial Pool 200 Eglinton Avenue West Oriole CC 2975 Don Mills Road West Parkway Forest CC** 55 Forest Manor Rd Pleasantview CC 545 VanHorne Avenue Roding CC 600 Roding Street WADING POOL LOCATIONS Eglinton Park 200 Eglinton Ave W Sherwood Park 190 Sherwood Ave Wanless 250 Wanless Ave Woburn Ave 75 Woburn Ave
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416-395-0477 416-395-7803 416-395-7585 416-395-7974 416-396-2822 416-392-6591 416-392-0618 416-395-7975 416-395-7965 416-395-7842 416-395-7841 416-395-6675 416-395-6689 416-395-6677 416-395-6696 416-395-6697 416-395-6687 416-396-2846 416-395-6688 416-395-6690 416-392-6591 416-395-6680 416-392-0945 416-395-6681 416-395-6698
SCARBOROUGH DISTRICT INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – CITY-OWNED Agincourt CRC 31 Glen Watford Drive Birchmount CC 93 Birchmount Road Centennial CRC 1967 Ellesmere Road Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre 875 Morningside Road INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – TDSB Albert Campbell CI 1550 Sandhurst Circle Cedarbrae CI 550 Markham Road L’Amoreaux CI 2501 Bridletown Circle Lester B. Pearson CI 150 Tapscott Road Sir Oliver Mowat CI 5400 Lawrence Ave West West Hill CI 350 Morningside Avenue Wexford CI 1176 Pharmacy Avenue OUTDOOR POOL LOCATIONS Blantyre 180 Fallingbrook Road Halbert 24 Rockwood Drive Heron Park 292 Manse Road Kidstown (L’Amoreaux Park) 3159 Birchmount Road Knob Hill 625 Brimley Road Maryvale 5 Trestleside Grove McGregor Park** 2231 Lawrence Avenue East WADING POOL LOCATIONS Halbert Park 24 Rockwood Drive Highview Park 150 Highview Avenue Knob Hill Park 625 Brimley Road Maryvale Park 5 Trestleside Grove Prairie Drive Park 101 Pharmacy Avenue Drive
416-396-8343 416-396-4018 416-396-4060 416-283-5222 416-396-4009 416-396-4006 416-396-4005 416-396-4010 416-396-4007 416-396-4008 416-396-4016 416-396-4126 416-396-4125 416-396-4063 416-396-8325 416-396-4128 416-396-4127 416-396-7769
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TORONTO EAST YORK DISTRICT INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – CITY-OWNED East York CC 1081 ½ Pape Avenue Jimmie Simpson RC 870 Queen Street East John Innes CRC 150 Sherbourne Street Main Square CRC 245 Main Street Matty Eckler CRC 953 Gerrard Street East Pam McConnell Aquatic Centre 640 Dundas Street East St. Lawrence CRC 230 The Esplanade Wellesley CC 495 Sherbourne Street INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – TDSB Beaches RC 6 Williamson Road D.A. Morrison JHS 271 Gledhill Avenue Earl Beatty CC 455 Glebeholme Blvd Fairmount Park CC 1757 Gerrard Street East Frankland CC 816 Logan Avenue Gordon A. Brown MS 2800 St.Clair Avenue West S.H. Armstrong 56 Woodfield Road OUTDOOR POOL LOCATIONS Alexander Duff** 779 Crawford Street Donald D. Summerville** 1867 Lakeshore Blvd. East Greenwood Park 209 Alton Avenue Kiwanis Park 373 Cedarvale Avenue Monarch Park 115 Felstead Avenue O'Connor Park 1386 Victoria Park Avenue Riverdale Park 550 Broadview Avenue WADING POOL LOCATIONS Art Eggleton Park 323 Harbord Street Christie Pits Park 750 Bloor Street West Coleman Park 19 Coleman Avenue East Lynn Park 1949 Danforth Avenue East Toronto Athletic Field 175 Main Street Fairmount Park 1725 Gerrard Street East Fred Hamilton Playground 155 Roxton Road George Webster Park 30 Chapman Avenue Healy-Willan Park 504 Euclid Avenue Hideaway Park 23 Audley Avenue Jimmie Simpson Park 870 Queen Street East Jonathan Ashbridges Park 1515 Queen Street East Kempton Howard 150 Blake Street Kew Gardens 2075 Queen Street East Leslie Grove Park 1158 Queen Street East Livingston Park 21 Woodville Avenue Margaret Fairley Park 100 Brunswick Avenue 14
416-396-2880 416-392-0751 416-392-6779 416-392-1070 416-392-0750 416-338-2237 416-392-1347 416-338-2329 416-392-0740 416-392-1950 416-392-0752 416-392-7060 416-392-0749 416-392-1950 416-392-0734 416-392-0910 416-392-7688 416-392-7804 416-396-2847 416-392-7831 416-395-6682 416-392-7801
Matty Eckler Playground Morse Street Playground Norwood Park Oakcrest Park Phin Avenue Playground Ramsden Park Riverdale Park West Rosedale Park Stephenson Park Sumach/Shuter Topham Park Vermont Square Winchester Park Withrow Park
953 Gerrard Street East 76 Morse Street 16 Norwood Road 30 Oakcrest Avenue 115 Condor Avenue 1020 Yonge Street 375 Sumach Street 20 Schofield Avenue 61 Stephenson Avenue 485 Shuter Street 181 Westview Blvd 819 Palmerston Avenue 530 Ontario Street 725 Logan Avenue
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WEST TORONTO YORK DISTRICT INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – CITY-OWNED Annette CRC 333 Annette Street Harrison Pool 15 Stephanie Street Joseph J. Piccininni CRC 1369 St. Clair Ave. West Mary McCormick RC 66 Sheridan Avenue Scadding Court CC 707 Dundas Street West Trinity CRC 155 Crawford Street Wallace Emerson CC 1260 Dufferin Street York RC 115 Black Creek Drive INDOOR POOL LOCATIONS – TDSB Centennial RC West Hillcrest CC 1339 Bathurst Street Parkdale CRC 75 Lansdowne Avenue Runnymede CI 569 Jane Street Swansea CRC 15 Waller Avenue Vaughan Road Academy 529 Vaughan Road Weston CI 100 Pine Street OUTDOOR POOL LOCATIONS Alexandra Park** 275 Bathurst Street Amesbury 155 Culford Road Fairbank Park Outdoor Pool 40 Keywest Avenue Giovanni Caboto** 1369 St. Clair Avenue West High Park 1873 Bloor Street West Smythe Park 175 Scarlett Road Stanley Park 86 Walnut Avenue Sunnyside/Gus Ryder** 1755 Lakeshore Blvd. West Weston Lions Park 2125 Lawrence Avenue West WADING POOL LOCATIONS Albert Crosland Parkette 14 Fuller Avenue Baird Park 275 Keele Street Beresford 400 Beresford Ave (south of Ardagh St) Budapest 1755 Lake Shore Blvd West Campbell Park 225 Campbell Avenue Carlton Park 20 Edith Avenue Chelsea Avenue Playground 103 Chelsea Avenue Close Avenue Parkette 116 Close Avenue Columbus Parkette 1985 Dundas Street West David Crombie Park 131 The Esplanade Dovercourt Park 155 Bartlett Avenue General Mercer 30 Turnberry Ave High Park 1873 Bloor St West Lionel Conacher Park 80 Cottingham Street Little Norway Park 659 Queens Quay West 16
416-392-0736 416-392-7984 416-392-0036 416-392-0742 416-392-0335 416-392-0743 416-392-0039 416-392-9675 416-394-2476 416-392-0746 416-392-6696 416-394-3199 416-392-6796 416-394-3242 416-394-2739 416-392-7686 416-395-6683 416-394-2742 416-392-7762 416-392-7807 416-394-2741 416-392-0703 416-394-7915 416-394-2743
Loretto College (R W Scott) Pelham Park Primrose Park Ravina Gardens Rennie Park Runnymede Sir Casmir Gzowski Hillcrest Park Marian Engel Park Mary McCormick Playground Masaryk Park Niagra/Stanley North Park Northumberland Playground Oriole Park Osler Playground Randy Padmore Park Spencer Cowen Parkette Trinity Bellwoods Park Vine Avenue Park Wadsworth Park Wells Hill Park West Lodge Park
151 Rosemount Ave 20 Pelham Ave 120 Primrose Ave 290 Clendenan Ave 1 Rennie Terrace 221 Ryding Ave 1751 Lake Shore Blvd 950 Davenport Road 285 Melita Avenue 66 Sheridan Avenue 212 Cowan Avenue 890 King Street West 770 Ossington Avenue 201 Oriole Parkway 123 Argyle Street 47 Denison Avenue 80 Spencer Avenue 790 Queen Street West 200 Vine Ave 120 Connolly St 145 Hilton Avenue 165 Lansdowne Avenue
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Section 1: Employee Policies, Procedures and Expectations Employee Expectations Aquatic staff are representatives of the City of Toronto and our interactions with the public make a lasting impression. Staff are expected to:
Adhere to the policies and procedures outlined in the Aquatic Staff Manual, Waterfront Aquatic Staff Manual, Part-Time Recreation Workers Handbook and all other related documents provided Provide a welcoming and safe environment to City residents and visitors Arrive on-time and be ready to work Maintain the highest standard of professionalism Attend all mandatory training sessions, staff meetings and additional training sessions as prescribed Be familiar and comfortable with the Emergency Procedures for all facilities in which they work
While on-duty, staff are expected to:
Be in appropriate City of Toronto issued uniform throughout their entire shift Carry original qualifications Be in appropriate lifeguard positions Remain attentive and alert Enforce City of Toronto policies consistently Provide customer service Perform other duties as required
Qualifications The following qualifications are required by Ontario HPPA – Regulation 565 and City policy: Position
Part-Time Aquatic Coordinator (PTAC)
Part-Time Pool InCharge (PIC) 18
Required Qualifications Lifesaving Instructor Swim Instructor Emergency First Aid Instructor National Lifeguard - Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Ontario Class G Driver's License Lifesaving Instructor Swim Instructor Emergency First Aid Instructor National Lifeguard - Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development
Minimum Age Requirements
Lifeguard (LG)
Swim Instructor (SI)
Aquatic Specialty Instructor
Aquatic Examiner
Aquatic Program Assistant (APA) Wading Pool Attendant (WPA) Aquatic Fitness Instructor
Specialty Aqua Fitness Instructor Customer Service Representative (CSR) Gatekeeper (GK) Facility Attendant (FA) Building Attendant (BA)
National Lifeguard - Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Lifesaving Instructor Swim Instructor Emergency First Aid Instructor National Lifeguard - Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Lifesaving Instructor Swim Instructor Emergency First Aid Instructor Specialty Award (e.g. Synchro Instructor) National Lifeguard - Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Lifesaving Instructor Swim Instructor Emergency First Aid Instructor Bronze Examiner Appointment National Lifeguard - Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Bronze Cross Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Wading Pool Attendant, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard – Pool Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Recognized Aqua Fitness Certification Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Recognized Aqua Fitness Certification Aqua Fitness Instructor Specialty Certification Standard First Aid with CPR-C Principles of Health Child Development Emergency First Aid with CPR-B Principles of Health Child Development Emergency First Aid with CPR-B Principles of Health Child Development Emergency First Aid with CPR-B Principles of Health Child Development Emergency First Aid with CPR-B Principles of Health Child Development
16 years of age
16 years of age
16 years of age
14 years of age
14 years of age
16 years of age
16 years of age
14 years of age 14 years of age 14 years of age 14 years of age
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Aquatic staff will be responsible for:
Keeping their required qualifications current and provide copies to their Community Recreation Programmer (CRP) and/or Designate of any new and/or expired certifications. Carrying their original qualifications with them when working Present certifications to the Part-Time Pool In-charge for verification, prior to working each shift. Monitoring the expiry dates of their qualifications and re-certifying in accordance with the qualification deadline policy. Staff may view their LSS certifications, by visiting the Lifesaving Society (LSS) website at: www.lifesavingsociety.com, select the "Find a Member" link and enter their LSS ID (located at the bottom right hand corner of any LSS Award card)
The Community Recreation Programmer will be responsible for:
Ensuring that all staff are correctly certified for the function that they are performing. Keeping copies of the employee qualification record on-site in a designated location, verified, dated and signed.
All aquatic qualifications are current as indicated: Qualification Lifesaving Instructor Emergency First Aid Instructor Standard First Aid Instructor Swim Instructor Aqua Fitness Instructor Bronze Cross National Lifeguard – Pool Wading Pool Attendant Bronze Examiner Synchro Instructor Emergency First Aid with CPR-B Standard First Aid with CRP-C (from one of the following recognized agencies: http://www.lifesavingsociety.com/firstaid/first-aid-prerequisites.aspx)
Years Current
2 years
2 years 2 years 2 years 2 years 3 years 3 years 3 years
After certification or recertification, only temporary certification cards issued by the Lifesaving Society will be accepted and recognized as temporary certification (temporary cards are valid for 90 days from the date of certification). Test sheets are not a valid proof of certification. If staff do not receive a permanent certification card in the mail prior to the 90 day temporary certification card expiry date they should contact the Lifesaving Society at 416-490-8844.
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Aquatic staff wishing to recertify LSS Instructor certifications should refer to the LSS credit recertification system. Visit www.lifesavingsociety.com and click on "Teaching" then "Recertifying" for more information. Only the National Lifeguard Pool option qualification is acceptable for lifeguarding indoor, outdoor and wading pools at the City of Toronto (NL - Waterfront, Surf, Water Park, NL instructor or NL examiner certifications are not acceptable substitutes).
Vision Requirement All NL certified staff will, at the discretion of the City, be required to confirm that they have met the minimum vision standard of 20/25 corrected.
Qualification Deadlines and Extensions There are no grace periods and staff cannot work with expired qualifications that are necessary for their job function. Furthermore, staff are required to meet the qualification deadlines predetermined by the District Support Unit (DSU). In the event of an extenuating circumstance where parttime staff require a qualification deadline extension, the outlined procedure must be followed:
Email Toronto Aquatics (
[email protected]) with the following information: o Staff name. o Current work location(s) or scheduled work location(s) for the affected session. o List of qualifications that do not meet the qualification deadline and their expiration date. o Provide an explanation as to why the current qualification deadline cannot be met. o Provide a date for the first available course you can register for.
Reimbursement for Recertification of Qualifications For employees who have passed the probationary period (1,040 hours) the city will pay the cost of the required and approved CPR, first aid, aquatic and aqua fitness recertification awards that the employee requires to perform the duties of the positon in which the employee is currently scheduled. Staff must submit the following documentation to their CRP for Supervisor approval:
A completed Qualification Reimbursement Form. Proof of completion of the course (temporary card, permanent card or find a member page). The original official itemized payment receipt (not a copy) indicting the date of transaction, the nature of the expenditure and the recipient of the payment. For Standard First Aid, a copy of the expired or expiring award. 21
Training Continuous training and development prepares staff for their role in the public service and helps to build knowledge and confidence. Staff are required to attend and actively participate in all pre-season mandatory training sessions and staff meetings. In order to maintain eligibility to work and be scheduled for shifts, all aquatics staff must actively participate and successfully complete all training sessions.
Staff must demonstrate skills to the required standard of their highest current lifesaving and instructing certification upon request. Staff arriving 5 minutes late, after training record content has begun will not be admitted to the training. No exceptions will be made. Training is considered a scheduled shift and missed training may result in descheduling from shift(s) and or loss of rights to shift and discipline. Failure to meet training requirements will result in de-scheduling from shift(s)/loss of scheduled shifts. Qualified staff who have completed mandatory training are scheduled for work shifts in accordance with the Scheduling Procedure.
Content may include but is not limited to: Recreation Employee Orientation, workplace safety, policies and procedures, staff manuals and handbooks, health and safety, customer service, lifeguarding skills, program management, resuscitation, spinals, first aid, and emergency procedures. All Annual Trainings ( Pool In-Charge, Wading Pool Attendant, Aquatic Support and Aquatic Fitness), must be completed within 12 months or less of the previous Annual training attended. Seasonal Trainings in fall, winter and spring must be completed prior to the commencement of the 4th week of each season. Seasonal Training in summer must be complete on or before the first weekend of session 1.
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Staff Training Descriptions Staff will be required to attend Annual Trainings specific to their position and qualifications they hold, a minimum of once per year. All annual trainings must be completed within 12 months or less of the previous Annual Training attended. Annual Training Content may include but is not limited to: workplace safety, policies and procedures, staff manuals and handbooks, health and safety, customer service, lifeguarding skills, program management, resuscitation, spinals, first aid, and emergency procedures. Seasonal Training Staff are required to attend this training each season (i.e. fall, winter, spring, summer) they are working. Under the leadership of the Community Recreation Programmer, this pool training may include issues specific to the site or community where the training is located. Staff are strongly encouraged to attend at their home location. Attendance elsewhere must be arranged and authorized by the Community Recreation Programmer to whom the staff reports. Staff are required to attend Seasonal Training prior to the commencement of the 4th week of each season (summer training must be completed on or before the first weekend of session 1). Content may include but is not limited to: workplace safety, policies and procedures, staff manuals and handbooks, health and safety, customer service, instructional skills, lifeguarding skills, program management, resuscitation, spinals, first aid, and emergency procedures. Trainer Clinic This training is mandatory for Part-Time Aquatic Coordinators. Pool In-Charge staff interested in assisting with Annual Trainings and receive a recommendation from their Community Recreation Programmer will be allowed to attend. The training will cover content, materials and training techniques required to lead and evaluate Annual Training stations. Facility Orientation All aquatic staff are to receive an orientation to each facility at which they work, prior to the commencement of their first shift. Each employee is required to complete a facility orientation a minimum of two times per year. Each orientation may vary based on location and site-specific amenities (e.g. pool depth, ramps, and sight line obstructions). The individual who conducts the orientation may be a Community Recreation Programmer or an approved designate who is familiar with the specifics of the facility. During the orientation, the staff and the orientation conductor must fill in the Facility Orientation Form and submit the completed form to be 23
filed on-site. Facilities with unique features (such as deep water, water slides, diving towers, etc.) will require additional items on the Facility Orientation form.* Content must include all information on the form including deepest point object recovery standard and guarding while clothed, if requested. *These include specific functional requirements such as guarding a slide, unique design issues etc. and may be district wide. Deepest Point Retrieval Skill: Demonstrate the ability to get to the bottom of deepest part of the pool, retrieve a 20 pound brick, surface and bring it to the side. Background: There are pools in the City of Toronto where staff may be required to bring a victim safely and efficiently to the side where the deepest point is greater than the 3 metre maximum evaluated at National Lifeguard standard. Purpose: Set standard evaluation criteria to determine staff's eligibility to work in facilities where the deepest point of the pool is greater than 3 metres. Standard for object facility orientation (Pool greater than 3 metres in depth): In City of Toronto pools where the depth is greater than 3 metres, Part-time Aquatic Coordinators, Part-time Pool In-Charge Staff, Lifeguards and Swim Instructors will demonstrate the ability to retrieve a 20 pound (lb) brick from the deepest point of the pool. The requirement will be to execute the following sequence: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Quick and efficient descent to the bottom (dive is acceptable). Recovery of a 20 pound brick from the deepest point of the pool. Efficient ascent with the 20 pound brick. Ensure control of 20 pound brick is maintained until it is carried to the nearest side. 5. Ensure rescuer's face is out (jaw line at the surface). Note: City of Toronto uniform rules apply and staff are expected to demonstrate this skill in approved City attire if they wish to wear it while guarding. It is essential that skills to get to the bottom of the pool and resurface are safely taught and reviewed each time the skill is demonstrated (e.g. pressure equalization). Guarding when Clothed Skill: Demonstrate the ability to effectively execute rescue/emergency procedures in approved city attire worn while lifeguarding prior to wearing the attire during a shift. Background: Aquatic staff in the City of Toronto are requesting to wear clothing other than shorts and singlet while lifeguarding. This request includes but is not limited to long 24
pants (e.g. yoga pants), long sleeve shirts and footwear. The training committee recommends a skill standard applicable in all aquatic facilities in the City of Toronto. Purpose: Set standard evaluation criteria to determine staff's eligibility to work in chosen city approved attire. Standard Skill performance requirement for guarding when clothed: The following skills must be successfully completed a minimum of twice per year to National Lifeguard standard where applicable and city requirements in order to be approved to guard in City of Toronto uniform other than shorts and lifeguard singlet:
Deep Water Spinal Rollover and 15-metre carry (for facilities who do not have a shallow end or cannot easily access the shallow end, a deep water boarding removal must be demonstrated as well) NL Physical Standard: Approach and Carry – Item 2f Brick retrieval from deepest point. NL Physical Standard: Rescue Drill – Item 2d
Note: City of Toronto uniform rules apply and staff are expected to demonstrate this skill in approved City attire if they wish to wear it while guarding. It is essential that skills to get to the bottom of the pool and resurface are safely taught and reviewed each time the skill is demonstrated (e.g. pressure equalization). It is the facility CRP who has the responsibility for the approval and tracking of said approval of individual staff attire.
Self-Directed (ELI) Trainings In addition to in-person trainings, staff are also required to complete a series of selfdirected trainings on the city of Toronto's ELI platform. Depending on your classification, some of the self-directed trainings only need to be completed once, others will need to be completed annually.
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Training Documentation Training documentation which includes but is not limited to training records and sign-in sheets are required for all staff members who attend training. These records detail the date, time, topics covered, signatures, initials and the names of staff in attendance. Staff and trainers are required to complete all necessary training documentation immediately upon completing training.
Pay for Training Hybrid Work: Fire Safety Review
Human Rights 101
General Cyber Security Awareness
Protecting Privacy On the Job
Returning Staff Playlist
Annual
PIC Annual
CR Violent Situation and De-escalation
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
ELI
1.25
9.25
0.5
0.5
0.5
1.5
0.5
0.5
5.0
1.0
1.75
1.0
Domestic/Inti mate Partner Violence for Employees
Accessibility 101
Part-Time Aquatic Coordinator Part-Time Pool InCharge Swim Instructor Lifeguard Aquatic Program Assistant Wading Pool Attendant Customer Service Representative Gatekeeper/Facility Attendant/Building Attendant Aquatic Fitness Instructor
New Staff Playlist
Type: # of hours:
Training:
ALL NEW HIRE STAFF
Self-Directed (ELI) Training Requirements
Completed Annually
LGBTQ2S+ Playlist
Completed Once
Staff will be paid the rate in accordance to the training session they are attending. The following chart outlines the rate of pay for each training: Training Annual Training 26
= Required Trainings * = May be required based on operational/district needs
Legend:
Rate of Pay Lifeguard rate (if certified as a lifeguard and being evaluated as a lifeguard)
Annual Instructional Training Annual Wading Pool Training Annual Pool In-Charge Training Annual Pool Operations Training Annual Part-Time Aquatic Coordinator Training
Seasonal Training
Annual Aquatic Fitness Training Trainer Clinic
Instructor rate (if certified as an instructor and being evaluated as an instructor) APA if not certified as an instructor WPA rate PIC rate PIC rate PTAC rate Paid at the highest rate for owned shift that season. Relief staff will be paid at the rate they are hired to work that season Staff will be paid by the CRP who they are working for that season Aquatic Fitness Instructor rate Trainer rate
Staff Evaluations All Part-Time Recreation Workers will be evaluated on their job performance twice a year. At least once during each summer season of employment. Staff evaluations help employees develop knowledge, skills, work experience and provide an official record of employee performance. Staff evaluations also aid in the evaluation of work protocols and general facility operations.
Performance Updates A performance update is used to recognize a significant contribution or identify an area where improvement is required. This tool is used to track strategies to improve or continue to excel in performance – see Appendix F.
Staff Discipline and Meetings All disciplinary situations are evaluated on their own merit. Any acts of insubordination or behaviour contrary to the City of Toronto's Code of Conduct or aquatic staff responsibilities may warrant immediate suspension or dismissal in accordance with the collective agreement. In some circumstances, staff may be asked to attend a meeting with a Supervisor to discuss performance issues. A union representative will be present to support the staff member.
Uniforms Various uniform items are supplied based on job function and aggregate hours as per the Collective Agreement. Staff are required to wear the current and approved uniform 27
while on duty to ensure they are readily identifiable as City of Toronto employees. The approved city uniform includes:
Singlet/staff shirt Bathing suit, professional in appearance Whistle
Aquatic staff who choose to wear any additional apparel while on-duty, must ensure the following:
Sunglasses and hats purchased/provided by the City are worn in lieu of personal items. Swimming sandals are not used for street wear. Non-City issued shorts or pants are plain navy blue or black. Long or short sleeve shirts worn under the uniform are logo-free and do not interfere with recognizable City apparel. City-issued hats may be worn only at outdoor pools or wading pools for sun protection; no hats may be worn at indoor locations. Skills are demonstrated in any additional apparel and meet the Performance of Skills When Guarding While Clothed as outlined above.
Aquatic staff are responsible for:
Cleaning and maintaining their uniform in good condition. Speaking to their CRP if they are unable to wear any part of their uniform. Speaking to their CRP to order replacement or additional uniforms. Staff will be required to purchase additional items when requesting items outside of their allotment as per the Collective Agreement.
Aquatic staff will not:
Make alterations that change the appearance of the uniform. Wear their uniform for personal activities.
Staff Shift Change Responsibilities of staff requesting a shift off:
Obtaining approval from their CRP or designate. Finding their own qualified replacement (in accordance with the Scheduling Procedure) by contacting staff on the approved replacement list in order of seniority. Ensuring the replacement has successfully completed all trainings for the replacement position.
Approval Process:
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At the discretion of the CRP, shift changes may be confirmed through email or by complete an Aquatic Staff Shift Change form and submitting it to their CRP or designate in advanced of the shift change. Documentation or procedures in the case of an emailed shift change will be specified by the CRP. The shift is the responsibility of the requesting staff until this form or email is approved by the CRP or designate. The request for a staff change is not complete unit the CRP or designate has initialled the Aquatic Staff Shift Change form or provided an email confirmation.
It is the responsibility of the staff to ensure that the form or email is authorized. Responsibilities of replacement staff:
Ensuring that they have completed a facility orientation prior to working at each facility. Reporting to work with original certifications. Having successfully completed required trainings. Not exceeding 48 hours per week, 80 hours in one pay period or 13 hours per day unless approved by a supervisor.
For lifeguarding shifts:
All relevant information regarding the shift must be communicated to the replacement.
For instructional shifts:
Aquatic staff are discouraged from switching instructional work hours. If staff know in advance that they will miss more than two (2) instructional shifts of the same program day, they must obtain pre-approval. Instructional staff must not replace themselves for the first class or final two classes of a session without approval prior to the start of the session from their Supervisor or designate. All appropriate lesson plans, test sheets, attendance sheets and shift information must be passed on to the replacement.
Scheduled Program Times Scheduled program times are not to be altered in any way without prior authorization from the Community Recreation Programmer. Where the pool must be closed due to cloudiness or pool fouling, the pool enclosure will be cleared and secured. A Supervisor must be consulted for any unscheduled facility closures.
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Adapted and Inclusive Recreation Programs for People with Special Needs or Disabilities Parks, Forestry and Recreation Commitment and Philosophy We are committed to promoting and encouraging greater participation of people with disabilities and special needs (developmental, intellectual, behavioural, medical, physical and emotional) in the wide range of activities offered throughout the City of Toronto. We invite individuals with disabilities to participate in recreation programs of their choice that meet their interests, needs, resources and ability within their local community. Individuals of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate in local programming, and are offered various supports to promote safe and meaningful experiences. We believe there are three main ingredients for meaningful participation:
services in the spirit of cooperation
recognition that adaptations may be necessary for participation
successful participation requires a positive attitude
Please contact or refer a client to the Adapted and I Representative or the Youth Outreach worker, listed in your district “FUN GUIDE”, to assist you or help your client get involved in any of our aquatic, recreation, social/life skills programs and camps. For additional information about other community recreation programs, services, agencies, and general contacts please refer to your district’s Adapted and Inclusive Recreation Programs for People with Special Needs or Disabilities Guide. City of Toronto Statement of Commitment to Creating an Accessible City Diverse communities and groups make up the population of Toronto. The City of Toronto values the contributions made by all its people and believes that diversity among its people has strengthened Toronto. The City of Toronto is committed to building an inclusive society and providing an accessible environment in which all individuals have access to the City’s services and programs in a way that respects the dignity and independence of people with disabilities. The City of Toronto supports the goals of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and will establish policies, practices and procedures which are consistent with the accessibility standards established under the AODA, including accessible customer service, information and communication, employment, the built environment and transportation. 30
The City of Toronto will continue to prevent barriers by designing inclusively and supporting positive attitudes that address "ableism" - attitudes which devalue and limit the potential of persons with disabilities. In working towards its goals under this Statement, the City of Toronto is committed to meeting the requirements of existing legislation and to its own policies and goals related to the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to people with disabilities and becoming a barrier free city. -
Toronto City Council, August 2009
Media Relations and Media Friendly Sites The City of Toronto values the role that the media has to communicate city news and information to the public. For this reason, the city has developed a Media Relations Policy and designated five (5) outdoor pool locations as Media Friendly Sites for media outlets to film "long shots" of the pool during Extreme Heat Warnings without prearranged appointments. Location Alex Duff Memorial Outdoor Pool Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Pool McGregor Park Outdoor Pool Monarch Park Outdoor Pool Sunnyside-Gus Ryder Outdoor Pool
Address 779 Crawford Street 1867 Lakeshore Blvd E 2231 Lawrence Avenue E 115 Felstead Avenue 1755 Lakeshore Blvd W
Phone Number 416-392-0910 416-392-7688 416-396-7769 416-396-2847 416-394-7915
Aquatic staff are reminded to be professional and courteous to the media. Staff are not permitted to speak on camera unless permission has been granted by the Manager of Aquatics or designate. If media arrive at a pool that is not listed as a Media Friendly Site without prior notice, the Pool In-Charge staff should direct the media to one of these locations. If the media claim to have permission to attend the facility or the media arrive at a Media Friendly Site when an Extreme Heat Alert has not been issued, follow the outlined procedure below: 1. Confirm and document in the pool log book the following information: Name of media outlet Contact person including name and telephone number Date and time of arrival (or expected arrival) Reason for their visit 2. Contact the Supervisor or On-Call Supervisor (after regular business hours) to confirm media visit arrangements 3. When approval is confirmed and media arrives at the site: Staff make a general announcement advising of the name of the media outlet and that they will be filming in the pool area. Patrons should be 31
advised that if they do not wish to appear on camera they should move away from the area being filmed Staff will only permit media to film the pool activity after the participants have been notified In order for patrons to appear on camera or be interviewed, the reporter must request the patron's permission or the permission of the patron's caregiver if under 16 years of age Release forms are not required if a patron gives permission to be filmed. Multimedia Consent Forms are only required for City-owned photos/filming 4. Upon departure of the news agency, the Pool In-Charge staff should call the PFR Public Relations and Issues Management office at 416-397-5347, for tracking purposes. Leave a voicemail stating who is calling, the pool location, which media outlets were at the pool and the time they arrived. During Extreme Heat Alerts, Pool In-Charge staff at Media Friendly Sites should: 1. Announce the presence of the media outline to the public prior to the commencement of filming 2. Notify the Community Recreation Programmer or designate of the media presence 3. Document the visit in the log book Pool In-Charge staff should not grant permission for a media outlet to film if:
There is an emergency in progress There is a special event where the participants should be consulted first Any other activity where the media would not be appropriate at your discretion
If staff are unsure, they are encouraged to contact their CRP or Supervisor during the day or On-Call Supervisor after hours or on weekends.
Shortage of Work From time-to-time, there is insufficient work and no alternate work for all staff who have been scheduled to work. This can be caused by many reasons such as a power failure, flood and inclement weather. When these situations arise, it may be necessary to send staff home and/or cancel shifts. In these situations, the Community Recreation Programmer (CRP) or designate will follow the procedure below: 32
Determine what job classifications and how many staff in each job classification are required to meet operational needs. Determine how many staff need to be reduced based on each job classification. Ask for volunteers that wish to go home within each classifications that need to be reduced.
If there are insufficient volunteers, the least senior staff currently working in each classification will be sent home until the appropriate staffing level is achieved. The classification is what the individual is scheduled to work at that time, not what they are qualified to work. In the event of over-lapping shifts, the Community Recreation Programmer (CRP) or the Supervisor will need to determine which staff will work based on operational needs. Staff will be paid a minimum of 3 hours if a shift is cancelled while already on site, and if no modified work is available.
Unauthorized Use of City Facilities and Resources Staff wishing to use City facilities or equipment outside of their regular operating hours must receive appropriate approval in writing from the respective Aquatic Supervisor. Approval may require staff to obtain a permit. Unauthorized entry by staff to any City of Toronto facility outside of regular operating hours (e.g. social gatherings, pool hopping, vandalism, pranks/pool raids) will result in termination of employment. In addition, the City may contact the police which will result in a criminal investigation related to unauthorized entry by staff as well as reporting to the Lifesaving Society for further review.
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Section 2: Aquatic Operations Safety and Supervision Safety and Supervision Standards for Swimming Pools City of Toronto Aquatic staff will ensure 100 percent compliance with the Health Protection and Promotion Act, Regulation 565 – Public Pools at all times. To ensure that all City aquatic facilities are accorded the same standard of care, the Pool In-Charge or designate (e.g. Head Lifeguard) will be assigned as the 'designated operator.' The Designated Operator is defined by Regulation 565 as the individual who is responsible for ensuring that the pool complies with safety standards. As the Designated Operator, the Pool In-Charge or designate must ensure that all Regulation 565 standards as well as City of Toronto standards, policies and procedures according to the Aquatic Staff Manual or Recreation Worker Handbook are complied with.
Within Call A lifeguard (or other aquatic personnel such as swim coach) who is the sole staff responsible for the safety supervision of patrons must be able to call an additional person by voice in the event of an emergency during active duty. The lifeguard must not leave the pool enclosure to get help. The “within call” person must be on the premises at all times and hold a current NL certification OR Standard First Aid certificate. Use of a telephone, cell phone or pager to call to someone off-site is not an acceptable way to get assistance. It is mandatory that the “within call” person is trained in emergency procedures of the facility. Duties must be specified and practiced as part of staff training. This requirement for ensuring a second “within call” staff occurs most typically in the City of Toronto during a lane swim when there is only one guard on duty or during a permit where there is only one qualified coach. In these examples, the “within call” person would be the Pool In-Charge/designate who is also the designated operator. In situations where the aquatic staff is unable to act as “within call,” other arrangements must be made so that the regulation is met.
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Safety Equipment and First Aid Requirements Every owner and operator, in accordance with the Health Protection and Promotion Act, Regulation 565 S 20, shall ensure that the following are provided in places conveniently located for emergency use: a) an electrically insulated or non-conducting reaching pole at least 3.65 metres long b) two buoyant throwing aids, each of which has securely attached to it a 6 millimetre diameter rope of a length not less than one-half the width of the pool plus 3 metres c) a spine board or device designed for transporting a person who has incurred a spinal injury d) a first-aid box containing at least: a current copy of the St. John Ambulance or the Canadian Red Cross Society First Aid manual 12 safety pins
24 adhesive dressings individually wrapped
12 sterile gauze pads, each 75 mm (3 inches) square
4 rolls of 50 mm gauze (2 inch) bandages
4 rolls of 100 mm (110 yard) gauze bandages
4 sterile surgical pads suitable for pressure dressings individually wrapped
6 triangular bandages
2 rolls of splint padding
1 roll-up splint
1 pair of scissors
Non-permeable gloves
Resuscitation pocket masks
First aid kit requirements listed above are for the operation of a Public Pool. WSIB requirements for first aid kits based on the number or workers on any one shift can be found in the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Aquatic Staff on Off-Location Trips Requesting an Aquatic Staff When camp trips require the accompaniment of aquatic staff, the Community Recreation Programmer or designate planning the trip can request a list of aquatic staff that would be willing to accompany the trip. The request for this list can be done through the Aquatics District Support Unit. It is the responsibility of the program CRP (e.g. camp CRP) or designate to contact the aquatic staff directly for their availability. In 35
the event that no aquatic staff is available, the camp may not enter or go near the water which may result in a change of trip plans. Program Staff with Aquatic Qualifications A CRP can hire a program staff that has the appropriate aquatic qualifications provided they attend training as designated by the Aquatics Unit. Once the program staff has attended the aquatic training they may be used as the certified aquatic staff to accompany trips. Expectations of Camp and Aquatic Staff on an Off-Location Trip It is expected that Camp Staff will: Contact the aquatic staff directly and provide the date, time, camp description, location and trip destination Introduce the Aquatic staff to all camp staff who will be accompanying the trip Exchange contact information (e.g. cell phone number) with the Aquatic staff, in the event that staff are separated during the trip Review the completed Off-Location Trip Planning Tool with the Aquatic staff Review emergency procedures (including signaling and communication systems and safety equipment), roles and responsibilities with the Aquatic staff prior to the program start and prior to each trip departure. These include: o Lost child o Lockdown o Medical Emergency o Injury to staff or participants It is expected that an Aquatic Staff will: Show original aquatic certifications to the camp CRP before each trip Carry original certifications on their person for the duration of the trip Leave a copy of their current certifications at the program location Ensure reasonable distances and barriers are in place around water to reduce the risk of immersion Review emergency procedures with the camp staff as outlined above Not be included in the camp ratio
Administration Logbooks Ontario Public Pool Regulation 565 requires that a daily logbook be used. A logbook is supplied for recording incidents, necessary readings, and pertinent operational notes. Responsibility for recording the following information should be understood by the Pool In-Charge and the maintenance staff. A separate maintenance logbook may be kept in the maintenance area. Staff may be required to: 36
Record the date at the top of the page Record the times of the occurrence/entry in the left hand margin of the page
Entries will cover the period from before opening the pool until closing each day. Entries will include but are not limited to: Phone check (including date and time) Weather conditions Air and water temperature Water quality: pH, chlorine, calcium hardness and alkalinity Building cleanliness Any incidents, accidents, pool fouling's, vandalism and/or emergencies that occurred Changes in operating procedures, pool closures Equipment failures, including tot docks (in detail) Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) check (including date and time) CCTV Check
Recreation worker's sign-in sheet Staff attendance, uniform and qualification check Shift changes Staff incidents Make-up water readings Participant attendance, where applicable Deliveries Maintenance staff and supervisory visits AED checks, where necessary Other pertinent remarks
Note: The Pool In-Charge must sign all logbook entries at the end of each shift. Logbook entries must not be altered in any way. Correction Fluid or tape may not be used. A single line to strike out errors may be used. A blue or black pen should only be used to complete the logbook.
Daily Records Checklist The following records must be kept at each pool location, recorded daily and kept for a minimum of one year:
Water chemistry readings including free available chlorine, total chlorine, total chlorine residuals, pH (30 minutes prior to opening and every 2 hours) Alkalinity (30 minutes prior to opening and every 2 hours) Make-up water readings Water and air temperature Total number of bathers (including lesson, camp and permits) Test buttons activated for ground fault currents Telephone for emergency checked Water slide inspection – to be retained for seven (7) years Equipment inspection/breakdown of equipment Accident/incident documentation Emergencies and rescues Daily use schedule including program hours and permit use Camp admittance documentation 37
Staff sign-in and staff qualifications Patron issues Complaint log Public education announcements AED checks – where necessary
Additional Documentation Required In addition to the daily records, the following is a checklist of records that are required for pool staff to keep up to date:
Qualifications of all staff on duty Staff training attendance In-service training agendas, dates, trainers, training records Staff meeting minutes Shift change records Staff facility orientation records Water outlet/pool fittings inspection (within 30 days, record the three staff who did the inspection) Instructional program class schedules
Required Documents and Resources
Emergency procedures (to be posted) Emergency phone contact list Lifeguard scanning charts (to be posted) Seizure information (to be posted) Hand and Whistle signal Charts (to be posted) Joint Health and Safety bulletin boards Job descriptions City of Toronto Aquatic Staff Manual Part-Time Recreation Workers' Handbook Ontario Health Regulations 565 and amendments Amusement Devices Act (where applicable) Ontario Regulation 428/05 Public Spas (where applicable) Staff contact list and relief list City of Toronto Facility Emergency and Operational Procedures binder Workplace Violence Binder Admittance Policy
Signs to be posted The following signs should be posted at each aquatic facility. If signs are absent or additional signs are required, the appropriate supervisor should be notified. 38
Deep End / No Diving OR Avoid Long or Deep Dives Shallow End – No Diving
Not Responsible for Lost or Stolen Articles Ontario Health Regulations Hours of Operation Bathers Only Beyond this Point No Smoking No Food or Glass allowed in Pool or Deck Area (Food Permitted In Designated Areas Only) No Trespassing Admission Signage (i.e. Admittance Policy, Wristband Policy, Caregiver Supervision Requirements for Children) No Street Shoes allowed on Pool Deck Designated Spectator Areas No Running Videotaping/Photography Policy Emergency Phone Code of Conduct
Emergency Telephone Testing The following procedure should be used to test the emergency phone: 1. Remove the telephone receiver and listen for a dial tone. 2. Establish an outside line by dialing a telephone number established by your Community Recreation Programmer or designate (for example, dial a community centre or another pool). 3. Hang up the telephone once a connection has been established. 4. Record the emergency phone test in the logbook, including the date, time and initial of the person completing the test. 5. Repeat this procedure any time the facility re-opens after a pool closure.
Facility Information Facility Cleanliness The cleanliness of a facility can leave a lasting impression on the public and is a direct reflection on all staff at the facility as well as the City of Toronto as a whole. The cleanliness of our facilities is not the sole responsibility of our maintenance staff. All staff members are responsible for assisting in maintaining a high level of cleanliness and safety in our facilities. When inspecting change rooms, common areas (i.e. offices, pool deck and equipment room) aquatic staff should take note of cleanliness issues and act accordingly.
Pool Fittings Inspection Procedure (16.1) The Health Protection and Promotion Act, Regulation 565 requires that pool fittings and outlet covers be inspected within every 30 days of operation. An outlet is an opening in the pool tank that can generate suction (e.g. main drain or skimmers). Loose or missing 39
outlet covers have caused fatalities. Regular inspection of these outlets must be established. Pool staff should visually inspect and record as a regular part of their weekly routine (even though the Regulation states that outlet covers be inspected once within every 30 day period). Pool staff must not underestimate the power or danger of suction. Outlet cover inspections should be undertaken with extreme caution to ensure staff safety. Pool fittings include:
Main drain covers Outlets where water exits the pool Vacuum line connection fittings Equalizer fittings, which are to be plugged or disabled
Note: Some pools will have a separate vacuum pump that does not run off of the main filter system. All pools should have labelled diagrams of each fitting or cover, which is to be inspected. This diagram will be used in organizing the inspection and in the recording of any defects noted (this diagram should be provided by those responsible for the facility maintenance). A special tool or a screwdriver should be used to test for the security of the grate covers. Fingers should not be used to test for security. Swimming goggles or an underwater mask are required to aid in the visual inspection of underwater fittings for cracks, missing screws and broken parts. The City of Toronto will adhere to the following Lifesaving Society (LSS) inspection procedure: 1. Three qualified personnel shall be identified to complete the inspection. 2. The first person is responsible for shutting down the filter system. This person must ensure: a. there is no suction in the system b. the system is locked down or supervised to ensure it is not turned on during the inspection 3. The second person is responsible for supervising the inspection. This person will permit the inspection to begin only after the first person confirms there is no suction in the system. 4. The third person will undertake the inspection of the outlet covers. A diagram of the pool depicting the outlet covers will guide the inspection. Each outlet cover should be assigned a number to help the accurate recording of inspection results. 5. Only after the third person signals that the inspection is complete, may the pool filter system be switched on. 6. Any outlet covers found to be defective (loose or missing) must be repaired or replaced before the facility is opened. 7. The inspection report shall be filed and held for a least one year from the date of the inspection. 8. Staff need to notify CRP and/or on-call if there are loose are missing covers, and close the pool until fixed. 40
9. Under no circumstance should staff be making repairs to fix the loose or missing covers. In Toronto District School Board sites, the Toronto District School Board staff are responsible for ensuring the pool outlets are inspected as per above.
Safe Water Management Maximum Chlorine Levels City of Toronto's swimming pools have implemented a maximum chlorine level of 4ppm. Action shall be taken immediately to correct chlorine levels higher than 4ppm. Closures will occur when chlorine levels reach 10ppm or higher. The following provides summary of status and actions to be taken: Level < 0.5ppm (too low) 1 – 3ppm (ideal) 4 – 10ppm (high) >10ppm (too high)
Status Closed Open Open Closed
Action Increase chlorine levels* N/A Correction required Return levels to ideal of