Pool Director Certification

What is the NJ Pool Director Certification?

N.J.A.C. 8:26-5.2(a)2, states, “For pools larger than 2,000 square feet, the designated adult supervisor shall possess pool director training certification.

Why Haven’t I Heard About This Until Now?

Summer of 2020 was the first year this requirement was in effect. Prior to 2020, there was a temporary state-wide waiver as part of the 2018 release of the updated NJ State Bathing Codes.

Doesn’t My CPO count as my NJ Pool Director?

No! Unfortunately, your CPO certification does not cover the new requirement for a Pool Director. However, your CPO can be trained to hold both positions.

How do I obtain a NJ Pool Director Certification

There are several options, which can be found here, but we recommend completing the American Red Cross Lifeguard Management course with In-Person (taught virtually) Supplement. To meet the NJ Pool Director requirement participants must complete both the online Lifeguard Management course (purchased separately) and this In-Person Supplement to the Lifeguard Management course.

ARC Lifeguard Management

The Lifeguard Management course combines an online course with an In-Person Supplement thus reducing the amount of classroom time required to complete the course. Importantly, this training course compliments the content taught within the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification course. Content in this course will allow you to easily develop site specific risk reduction strategies, safety plans, and in-service training all from a trusted provider familiar to members of your lifeguard staff.

What Will I Learn in a Pool Director Course

Topics include:

  • Your role and responsibility as a pool director
  • Staffing your facility.
  • Requirements for pool water filtration and circulation system components
  • Understanding sanitizers and oxidizers effects and applications in the pool environment.
  • Water testing and understanding water chemistry’s role in safe bathing facilities.
  • Review of the NJ Public Recreational Bathing Code requirements.
  • Reducing Job-Related Health Risks.
  • Identifying and operational troubleshooting of common pool problems.
  • Developing and implementing facility specific training and documentation for supervision and staff in-servicing.
  • Injury prevention strategies for reducing the frequency & severity of injuries and illness.
  • Developing EAPs (Emergency Action Plans) and responding to emergencies.
  • Preventing recreational illnesses and drownings.
  • Interacting with the public.

Upcoming Pool Director Courses