Industry News
Successful Public Pool and Spa Reopening During the Covid-19 Pandemic
![Successful Public Pool and Spa Reopening During the Covid-19 Pandemic](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/COMMERCIAL-POOL-2.jpg)
Last year, the government demanded the closure of all swimming pools and spas. They did all this to prevent the number of coronavirus infections. Now, things are slightly different. Some pool facilities are open, but pool owners need to observe specific regulations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention came up with several safety measures regarding pool and spa reopening.
![Successful Public Pool and Spa Reopening During the Covid-19 Pandemic](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/pool-photo-2.jpg)
Fortunately, the covid-19 virus cannot survive in pool water. Remember, swimming pools use a lot of chemicals like bromine and chlorine. Such chemicals deactivate the virus. However, swimmers should still practice social distancing. Otherwise, an infected person can pass the virus to a healthy person through respiratory droplets. Both swimmers and staff members should regularly wash their hands and disinfect surfaces. In this article, we summarize the respective guidelines issued by the CDC.
A general overview of pool and spa reopening guidelines
All commercial swimming facilities should create a strategy that incorporates certain aspects. These aspects include:
- Identifying the new bather load capacity is based on state guidelines. in general, you should not exceed 50% of the bather load capacity. Also, swimmers should be six feet away from each other.
- Formulating a schedule for cleaning times.
- Wearing masks and protective garments.
- Screening of employees and guests.
- Observing social distancing.
- Plan how to deal with infected employees.
- Display information to the public on how to protect themselves in the pool area.
Recommendations for operating places of work
Below are the guidelines that apply to places of work and public facilities.
- Anyone infected with the virus should not report to work.
- Keep a distance of six feet between each other.
- Wear proper face masks at all times, unless you are eating or swimming.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth using a clean tissue or handkerchief.
- Always wash hands using water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Additionally, keep sanitizing your hands.
Recommendations for operating commercial swimming pools and spas
In public swimming pools and spas, follow the below guidelines.
- Identify the number of employees needed to be in the office. Consider letting some of your team members work from home.
- Make sure all your employees get tested from time to time.
- All staff members should wear face masks except for on-duty lifeguards.
- Offer sanitizers and masks in the workplace.
In the midst of a pandemic, how do you calculate bather load capacity?
Every pool owner should determine their pool’s bather load capacity. They can calculate this using a spaced interval of six feet between swimmers. As previously stated, the bather load capacity should be half that of the initial capacity. Nonetheless, because lap pools are smaller, you’ll need a lower bather load capacity. Also, more limitations apply to spas, hot tubs, among other water features.
Boosting safety in the workplace
Commercial pool owners should provide masks and hand sanitizers for their guests and employees. Subsequently, they will help prevent the spread of the virus.
Maintain maximum hygiene in pools
During this time, you should ensure the pool is in good shape. Typically, the pool should have balanced water chemistry and stay clean/disinfected at all times.
Display all necessary information to the public
Display all covid-19 restriction guidelines to the public. Consider posting them on your website and all social media pages. Also, put them on large signage before the entry of your facility.
Compliance/enforcement
It would be best to come up with more than one or two exit and entry gates in your facilities. Of course, this depends on the number of staff reporting to work. You can also reduce crowding in the workplace by requesting your employees to work in shifts.
Controlling covid-19 infections
All pool equipment should stay clean and disinfected. Reduce shared furniture around the pool. If possible, ask guests to come with their tables and chairs. Keep disinfecting surfaces from time to time. For indoor pool spaces, ensure the aeration systems are working well. Keep all the windows and doors open. Also, do not allow food vendors to sell within your property.
How to handle a covid-19 illness occurrence
If you happen to have an infected member in your facility, observe the following:
- Ensure the person leaves the facility and goes into isolation as soon as possible.
- Shut down and disinfect all areas in your facility. At times, you may have to close down the entire building.
- Report the incidence to the nearby health practitioners.
Pool and Spa Reopening
Pool owners should communicate all information regarding covid-19 guidelines to the public when it comes to pool and spa reopening. Post the information online and put up noticeable posters in your facility. Vaccinated people should also observe all these practices. A vaccinated person can still serve as a carrier of the virus. Thus, he or she can transfer the virus from one person to another. Ultimately, all public facilities should observe the respective guidelines outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Industry News
Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Celebrating Their 5-Year Anniversary
![Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Celebrating Their 5-Year Anniversary](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/phta-5-year-annivesary.jpg)
As the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) marks its fifth anniversary, it’s a time not only for celebration but also reflection on the significant strides made in the pool and hot tub industry. Over the past half-decade, PHTA has stood as a beacon, tirelessly working to educate, advocate, and elevate the industry. Let’s take a closer look at some of the remarkable accomplishments achieved during this time.
Contributions in Education
Education has been a cornerstone of PHTA’s mission, and the Genesis platform stands as a testament to its commitment to excellence. Genesis, renowned for its high-quality instruction, has paved the way for certification in various aspects of pool and hot tub management. From face-to-face to virtual training, Genesis has expanded its course offerings, ensuring professionals have access to top-tier education. The creation of a unique mastermind event further underscores PHTA’s dedication to advancing knowledge within the industry.
Moreover, PHTA has democratized education through initiatives like Class Pass, offering free training to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Additionally, strategic partnerships, such as the collaboration with Cornell to provide business training for executives and emerging leaders, have empowered industry professionals with invaluable skills and knowledge.
Advocates For The Pool & Spa Industry
On the advocacy front, PHTA has been at the forefront of critical discussions surrounding energy efficiency, drought management, decarbonization, and legislative matters such as the VGB Act and summer work travel. The organization’s inaugural lobby day in 2023 marked a pivotal moment, bringing industry stakeholders together to champion key issues. Notably, PHTA’s Step Into Swim program has been a resounding success, raising over $1.5 million and introducing swimming to more than 50,000 individuals.
In terms of industry standards, PHTA’s accreditation by ANSI underscores its commitment to safety and excellence. With over 40,000 professionals certified annually, PHTA ensures rigorous standards are upheld across various domains, including pool operation, design, and service.
PHTA’s reach has also extended through consolidation efforts, bringing organizations like TPSC and CPSA under its umbrella. The alignment with Texas and California signifies a broader reach and deeper impact within the industry. Furthermore, PHTA’s emphasis on research, evidenced by annual and quarterly surveys on business operations, enables members to benchmark their performance effectively.
Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Recent Accomplishments
Not content with past achievements, PHTA has remained focused on workforce development. The launch of apprenticeship programs approved by the Department of Labor underscores its commitment to nurturing talent within the industry. Initiatives like Work In Aquatics provide a platform for job seekers to explore careers and opportunities, with over 5,000 applicants to date.
As the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance looks ahead to the next five years, the organization is poised for even greater accomplishments. With a steadfast commitment to educating, advocating, and elevating the industry, PHTA remains dedicated to excellence. It is the engagement and loyalty of its 3,900 members and counting that inspire PHTA to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. Here’s to five years of success and many more to come!
Employment
How to Recruit and Train Top Talent with PHTA’s Work In Aquatics Initiative
![Work in Aquatics Logo PHTA Logo Man near a swimming pool](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Work-in-Aquatics-1.png)
Since the pandemic, workforce development has been a main concern for many industries—and the pool and hot tub industry is no exception. The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the industry’s leading national trade association, has regularly heard from its members that recruiting and retaining employees is one of the top business concerns.
Going back to the first quarter of 2021, 53% of PHTA members were concerned about finding qualified employees and 21% were concerned about employee performance and quality. Jump to the second quarter of 2023, and 58% were still concerned with recruiting and retaining skilled employees.
There was a huge boom in the demand for pools and hot tubs during the pandemic. Although that demand has started to slow, 61% of participants in the PHTA Quarterly Pulse Surveys in 2023 say they are still experiencing project backlogs and 54% are increasing their employee headcount.
This is why PHTA launched Work In Aquatics, a groundbreaking workforce development initiative specifically created to address hiring, training, and retaining employees in the pool, spa, and hot tub industry. Work In Aquatics utilizes a multi-pronged approach to attract jobseekers to the industry, prepare them for industry jobs, and introduce them to companies with open positions.
The public-facing Work In Aquatics website shares information on career trajectories, recommended industry certifications and trainings, testimonials from people already working in the industry, and more. There are specific sections of the website dedicated to three key audiences: military veterans, high school graduates, and career changers. Work In Aquatics covers everything from entry-level lifeguards to critically acclaimed pool designers.
For professionals already working in the industry and looking to expand their workforce, there is an accompanying Work In Aquatics online job board. PHTA member companies can post their open positions (for free!) at careers.workinaquatics.com. Since its launch six months ago, participating companies have received more than 3,300 job applicants.
PHTA is also continuously developing resources for employers, such as tips on how to write job descriptions, how to promote open positions on your company’s website and social media accounts, and simple ways to retain your best employees.
Work In Aquatics is also supported by several existing PHTA programs, including PHTA’s two U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Programs. One apprenticeship program is for maintenance and service technicians, and the second is for pool installer technicians. These are robust programs that come equipped with PHTA on-demand education courses, guidelines for creating mentor relationships, and other resources. PHTA staff are available to help at any step along the way.
Both the apprenticeship programs and the Work In Aquatics website highlight the importance of professional certifications. PHTA offers 11 certifications across service, retail, build, and design, for people at any level in the industry. Some states require PHTA certifications as part of their licensure requirements for pool operations or construction, which is important for both employers and those just beginning their career to know.
If workforce development and employee retention are at the top of your business concerns, PHTA is here to help! Visit workinaquatics.com or contact Seth Ewing, PHTA’s Senior Director of Member Programs and Services, to learn more.
Industry News
Pool Magazine Profiles: Kevin Woodhurst
![Head to Head With Pool Designer Kevin Woodhurst](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/kevin-woodhurst-pool-design.jpg)
For over 30 years, Kevin Woodhurst has been leaving an indelible mark on the pool industry, crafting awe-inspiring aquatic designs that have captured the hearts of countless clients. With a wealth of experience under his belt, Kevin has been directly and indirectly responsible for the design and construction of thousands of new swimming pool projects and remodels, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a visionary pool designer.
From the very outset of his career, Kevin immersed himself in every aspect of the pool business, donning various hats and acquiring an unparalleled understanding of the industry. His journey has taken him through every role imaginable, allowing him to amass a comprehensive knowledge of pool design, construction, and management. As a result, he stands tall among the industry’s experts, armed with insights that can only be garnered through years of hands-on experience.
Today, Woodhurst is a Design Consultant for Claffey Pools, one of the most prominent and highly regarded pool construction firms in the nation, where he continues to push the boundaries of contemporary pool design and construction. His multifaceted knowledge and hands-on experience in various aspects of the pool business make him an invaluable asset to the company.
![](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/kevin-woodhurst-pool-designer-823x1024.jpg)
Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Woodhurst on the Pool Magazine podcast. We discussed how he got his start in the pool industry and why he’s still passionate about designing pools after three decades in the game.
PM (Pool Magazine): We were hoping that you could talk about your background a bit and discuss how you first got started in the industry.
KW (Kevin Woodhurst): I fell into the industry and I kind of like to use that as an example of what happens to designers. One of the things that I say pretty regularly is you can check in any time, but you can never check out.
About 30 years ago, I purchased a home and decided that we needed to have a pool and reached out to a few pool builders in Phoenix, and lo and behold, I landed somewhere and that started it all. I had a pretty extensive construction background and an extensive mechanical background while serving in the military for about 13 years. Furthermore, I spent a lot of years drawing and just designing things, so it really came pretty natural to join the industry.
PM: We saw you mentioned once that working in the pool industry has enabled you to build a career that really reflects your truest self. Can you share what initially drew you into this industry and why you stayed passionate about it over the years?
KW: I think a big part of it is there’s a certain build-up and excitement in meeting with potential clients and helping these people visualize not only verbally, but in some sort of media, some sort of format.
Years ago, when I first started, we used a pencil and paper, onion paper, and sat at people’s dining room tables designing projects. It’s a little fascinating to me that we were able to sell pools that way because the modern technology now is so good and there are so many options for it that it seems so weird that people bought pools that way. But, yeah, it’s been a fun experience watching this industry grow and mature from what it was.
PM: You have a diverse background in design and construction and project management. How was your experience in these areas influenced your approach to designing pools?
KW: I had some good mentors along the way and one of them very early on convinced me that it was important to really apply myself to the trade and to the craft. He encouraged me to go through the certification programs and get actively involved with the industry. That’s been a big part of it.
I enjoy engaging with the industry. Whether or not it was the trade shows or the associations. I had some good experiences with NESPA very early on and had some influences from some of the “godfathers of the industry” that are no longer with us, like Al Rizzo and John Romano, both of whom were legends in the pool industry.
Certainly, that would be my suggestion to anybody that’s new in the industry – to get out there and meet some of these people. To find a mentor and the guys that are shaking it up and making it happen out there. There are a lot of truly good guys who are going to share. They want to increase the knowledge base out there and want to see our industry continue to grow and mature.
![](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/pool-project-kevin-woodhurst-1024x682.jpg)
PM: Can you tell us a little bit about how collaboration has helped shape your career and the benefits it’s brought to the design and construction process you employ today?
KW: I’ve spent a lot of time out in the field working with the trades and really understanding what they were doing. I think part of that is I just have this engineer’s mindset where I need to know how stuff works before I can design it and ultimately be able to explain it in a way that homeowners can understand.
We all have to remember, they just see pretty pictures. They don’t understand what’s going on in the ground, under the ground, the piping, the structural aspects of pools, how turnover works and how filtration works, and how all these mechanical systems ultimately function.
PM: You charge for design services rather than using them solely as a sales tool. What led you to make this shift and how do you communicate the value of your design work to clients?
KW: I’ll tell you, it was a hard transition. I only say that because, at least in the market that I was in, so many people said that it was just impossible. No one’s going to pay for plans. But the reality is there are people that will.
You’ve got to be able to pick and choose who your clients are and learn when to be okay with not getting a particular job. I think people that really understand the complexity of swimming pools understand that it is a major investment in the property. They’ll pay for plans. But at the same time, you’ve got to be able to produce a set of plans that they can look at and go, well, that was worth the money.
For those out there that have gone through a lot of the training, whether it’s through Watershapes University or the Genesis program or any of the associations, you have to value your time before you can expect anyone else to.
![](https://www.poolmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/kevin-woodhurst-pool_design-1024x682.jpg)
PM: How does being selective with the projects that you take on contribute to a better client experience and outcome?
KW: Well, you have to know your limits. You have to know what you’re capable of. I find that to be a very valued trait of someone is knowing when a job is too big to tackle on their own.
Knowing your limitations is a big part of it. But also consider, there are plenty of other people out there in the industry that can help you. You may pay for their time, but that’s just part of that learning process many years ago. Almost 20 years ago, I took on a million-dollar project, and we ended up doing a cost plus on it because it just didn’t make sense for me to put us in that sort of position.
I got some help from within the industry on that project. Building out the hydraulics, et cetera. But knowing your limitations is a really good thing and it just sets a bar for you and a point of reference. ‘Okay, here’s where I’m at and I want to continue to get better, so I can move forward and get to do some of those bigger projects.’ There’s nothing wrong with that.
PM: During the construction process, how do you ensure that your clients are well-informed about the ins and outs of pool ownership and what that process is going to be like?
KW: It’s a lot of information for a homeowner to try to digest. I think to some degree you’ve got to be able to pare your presentation back to the mindset or the level of knowledge that they do have.
Meeting with a homeowner in their space on their property and spending time asking questions is going to give you a little bit of background of what they’re looking for. It’s not a canned speech for everybody. It’s just a process to understand where they’re at, where they’re coming from because you kind of have to meet them there; and then modify your presentation and your information to digestible pieces that they can comprehend along the way.
PM: Looking back on your own career, what has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a professional pool design consultant?
KW: Well, I still love it. I’ve been involved in the design and construction of thousands of pool projects. I just still love meeting people and seeing the excitement, especially on a young family with kids and you can see the excitement in their faces over the probability of having a swimming pool in the backyard. When you can make the connection with people where they get really engaged with the process, that’s a lot of fun.
Of course, I get excited when I go to a multimillion-dollar home and we’re looking at a very high-end, very exotic swimming pool. But most of the satisfaction really comes from taking that design and taking it from conception to completion.
I have a project going on right now out in Possum Kingdom, which is a big lake here in Texas that is a pretty awesome job. It’s a big vanishing edge pool near a cliff and it’s just that kind of stuff that gets exciting.
I’ve spent half my adult life now in the pool industry, and it’s kind of weird when I think back on it, because I’ll be 61 this year and, man, the years fly by. It’s fun. It has definitely had its moments, but when all is said and done – after three decades, it’s been really good.
Listen to our entire conversation with Kevin Woodhurst on the Pool Magazine podcast.
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