Jo Talbot - launch of Guidance for Pool Supervision Technology
Industry leaders launch new guidance on swimming pool supervision technology for UK swimming pool operators
Swimming Pool Technology continues to evolve, with over 250 centres now using various technology systems to enhance safety and support in operational challenges. Initially created in 2023 and updated in 2024, industry guidance regarding technology in swimming pools has seen a revision for 2025 with a relaunch to meet the industry's needs.
The updated edition of The UK Swimming Pool Guidance for Automated Monitoring and Detection Systems was developed with the support of CIMSPA, RLSS UK, Swim England and ukactive.
The comprehensive guidance covers both lifeguarded and non-lifeguarded swimming pools. It offers essential advice on the selection, installation, operation, and training requirements associated with automated monitoring and detection systems. It outlines key performance and design criteria that pool operators should consider when selecting and managing these systems.
Jo Talbot, Commercial Director, RLSS UK, said: “Swimming pool supervision technology is advancing constantly. The updated guidance helps operators adapt to new technologies, ensuring safer swimming environments for everyone. Embracing technology can help improve safety outcomes while supporting operational challenges and efficiencies.”
The guidance was unveiled at an industry launch event hosted at The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Centre in Rugby. Pool operators, architects, safety professionals, and key industry partners came together to learn about the updated guidance. Attendees had the opportunity to watch live demonstrations and engage with the UK's leading pool supervision technology suppliers: Lynxight, Poolview, AngelEye, and Poséidon by Maytronics.
GLL was delighted to host the recent launch of the latest industry guidance for Automated Monitoring and Detection Systems at the Queens Diamond Jubilee Centre.
Alan Ritchie, National Pools and Water Safety Manager, GLL, said: “With over fifty professionals from our industry attending the event, we hope to continue to pull together to make pools safer for everyone. The demonstrations of GLL’s latest Lynxight system showcased the benefits of technology and our team’s positive attitude towards it. GLL continues to work with and develop technology to make our pools safer whilst ensuring staffing models reflect swimmers’ needs in the water.”
The working group will formally review the guidance annually in collaboration with CIMSPA, RLSS UK, Swim England, ukactive, and independent swimming pool experts to ensure it reflects the latest technological advancements and industry best practices.
Tara Dillon, CEO of CIMSPA, said: “The work RLSS UK has been driving with facilities operators to explore how technology can be effectively used to support our highly skilled lifeguard professionals is to be congratulated. Through collaboration, this work demonstrates how safety can be further enhanced through technology deployment to help lifeguards who use their expert training to ensure that the public can enjoy and benefit from aquatic activity.”
Richard Lamburn, Swim England’s Head of Facilities, said: "Swimming is the largest participation sport in the UK, and it's imperative that people can enjoy the water in the safest possible environment. Swimming pool supervision technology is advancing at a great pace, and the updated guidance for 2025 will assist operators in meeting their needs. We look forward to continuing to work with RLSS UK, CIMSPA, and ukactive to evolve the guidance as the technology develops.
Paul Crane, Risk & Standards Manager at ukactive, the UK’s trade body for the physical activity sector, said: “ukactive and representatives from our Standards & Legislation committee have collaborated closely with RLSS UK and its partners to develop this guidance that supports our members and their staff to ensure high levels of safety in the nation’s swimming pools. This guidance reflects the advancements in digital technology that are taking place across the physical activity sector and supports operators in utilising these properly to further improve safety measures for customers using their swimming pools and facilities.”
For more information and to view or download industry guidance regarding technology in swimming pools, click the link below.